the year at carletti

We find the mill a delightful location at any season -- but do not always remember to record the moment with a photo. Here are some pictures of the passing of the seasons at the mill.

january 2003: snow on the ridge of monte Giovo

january

With the leaves off the trees, it is possible to see the shape of the countryside. The mountains are usually snow-covered, making a wonderful contrast to the sky (when it is blue -- we do have cloudy and rainy days too!)

february 2007: looking up the torrent towards the mill

february

A period for chopping wood, or rambling the slopes, and afterwards for sitting round the log fire or the wood-burning stove with a comforting drink.

March 2006: Snow every day for the first week of March!

march

Over the last three years, it has snowed during the first week of March -- in fact, I was snowed in for 6 days in March 2004. But by mid-March, it is clear that the seasons have turned, and spring is in the air.

april

The wild flowers become abundant, and butterflies appear to exploit their nectar. The grass, weeds, brambles and nettles put on their first growth spurt of the year, reminding us of the endless work ahead to keep them reasonably cropped. We don't seem to have an April photo, so you will have to imagine the scene, or come to see it for yourself.

May 2006: the waterfall behind the mill

may

Perhaps the peak period for butterflies. With warmer temperatures, the water in the torrent also warms a little, making it more approachable. Recommended for fishing more than for swimming, nonetheless. But beautiful, and the series of rock pools and waterfalls make a marvelous playground for adventurous kids.

June 2006: the approach road through the forest, monte Giovo in the distance

june

The forests of Chestnut and Beech are lush and green, with dappled light on the carpet of dry leaves. Walk quietly, and you will perhaps disturb a deer. Stand very still, and all sorts of animals may come by, from mice to wild boar or porcupines.

july

July, August, and even September can be excessively hot down in Lucca, and even in Barga: up at Mulino Carletti, the hot days are that little bit cooler, and the sound of the birds and the myriad waterfalls makes it even more pleasant. By contrast, winter night-time minima are not as low as in the valley, so we have the advantage both ends of the year. I'll be sure to take a july photo this year -- I don't seem to have one.

August 2006: a quiet read on the top field

august

Now that we have begun to clear the trees that had encroached on the fields and terraces around the mill, there are plenty of places to relax in the sun. Of course, with 16 hectares (40 acres) of wooded mountainside, there is no shortage of shade either, and if you really need to cool down, the torrent offers several pools and waterfalls for a refreshing dip. The water temperature is rarely above 16 degrees, even in the height of summer.

September 2004: returning across the bridge after a trek up the mountain

september

When this photo was taken, our small "fields" were still full of trees, so that this was the first sight of the mill as you approached. It has been described by several people as "an enchanted spot", and this description seems as apposite as ever with the wider views crated by the clearing back of the forest. Arriving back across the little bridge brings a lightness to the step even after a tiring day's sightseeing or hill-walking.

October 2006: the medlars have a lovely colour, even if they are not yet edible

october

There is a saying in Italian "with time and straw, even the medlars ripen". Here in this october view, they are beginning to look ripe, but don't be deceived: they need another month, and perhaps some time laid in straw.

November 2005: autumn colours in our forest

november

As the leaves turn, the view changes daily -- first just the colours, then with the falling leaves views hidden by green for half a year open up again. And while you are rmbling in the woods, keep your eyes skinned for mushrooms. Our delicious porcino mushrooms can be 20 cm diameter and weigh in at over half a kilo. But don't touch unless you are sure: there are poisonous funghi growing in the woods too.

December 2006: view from the roof of the mill down the valley, Plenty of white water after recent rain.

december

The first year that I stayed in the mill in December, I was definitely cold. With the wood buring stoves added to the huge log fire in the old kitchen, conditions are better now. It is thrilling to stand by the torrent after heavy rain, and to hear the growl of rocks being swept along under the foaming water. One of my favourite seasons in my favourite house.

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