let's hygge october - Lindbjerg Graphic

[definition of hygge]

a quality of cosiness and comfortable living that engenders a feeling of contentment and well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture).

Add a little hygge to each month

This month, I’m taking you on a little trip down memory lane to my days in Rome, visiting my dearest and oldest friend, Charlotte, who has made the city her home. We’ve known each other since we were nine years old, and despite all the years and miles between us, our friendship has remained close and true. I am the godmother of her two sons, and she is of ours – a bond that goes far beyond friendship.

During my time in Rome with Charlotte, she introduced me to some truly special places. Below, I’m sharing five of my highlights from those unforgettable days.

This month’s recipe is an old family favourite, passed down from Andrea’s (Charlotte’s husband) mother – a simple Italian dish that’s full of flavour and comfort.

And of course, the film of the month could only be Italian. It’s a masterpiece, and I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.

Wishing you a wonderful October, whether you’re stepping into spring or settling into autumn.

MY 5 HIGHLIGHTS OF ROME

Charlotte and I got up early to see Rome before it woke up, and those first quiet hours were pure magic. Unlike many cities, Rome truly sleeps in, so we had the streets and piazzas almost to ourself while the air was still cool and gentle. I loved wandering before it got too hot and busy, then finishing with a coffee as the cafés slowly opened and the city began to stir. It’s such a huge contrast to seeing Rome at night, when it turns on all its charm – glowing lights, lively piazzas, and a rhythm that feels entirely different.

1. Dolce Vita Tours
Charlotte arranged a very special private tour of Rome that was truly unforgettable. We were picked up in an electric Fiat 500 with charming cane chairs and whisked around the city on a guided journey full of stories and hidden corners.

2. Basilica di Santa Sabina
Our first stop was Giardino degli Aranci, offering a breathtaking view across Rome. Just next door stands one of the city’s oldest churches – the Basilica di Santa Sabina – a place steeped in history and quiet beauty.

3. Palazzo Venezia
Palazzo Venezia feels like an oasis in the middle of Rome. It’s one of my favourite escapes when the crowds get overwhelming. I’m especially drawn to the incredible variety of floor tiles – each room revealing a new pattern to admire.

4. Giardino Grande
The Giardino Grande is the courtyard leading into Palazzo Venezia. Free to enter, it’s a lovely spot to pause, sit in the shade, and perhaps sketch or jot down a few thoughts in a diary. A peaceful corner right in the heart of the city.

5. Galleria Sciarra
Tucked away near the Trevi Fountain, the Galleria Sciarra feels like stumbling into a secret world. Its soaring glass roof floods the space with light, while the richly painted façades wrap you in color and detail. It is one of those rare corners of Rome where you instinctively pause, tilt your head back, and take it all in – a hidden jewel that rewards anyone who takes the time to look up.

ACQUACOTTA

Acquacotta, meaning “cooked water,” is a humble Tuscan soup with roots in the Maremma countryside. Originally made by farmers with whatever they had on hand — stale bread, onions, seasonal vegetables, and a little olive oil — it’s proof that simplicity can taste divine. It has become a favourite of ours. Acquacotta may not be the most eye-catching dish, but what it lacks in looks it more than makes up for in flavour – simple, rustic and absolutely divine. Buon appetito!

ALL YOU NEED

For 4 persons

4 tbsp good olive oil
2 medium onions, finely sliced
2 carrots, diced
6-8 celery sticks, diced
400 g canned peeled tomatoes (or fresh, peeled and chopped)
1 litre vegetable stock (or water)
4 slices of stale country bread
5 eggs (for poaching in the soup)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1. Warm the olive oil in a large pot. Add the onion, carrot, celery and cook gently until softened.

2. Stir in the tomatoes and let them simmer for a few minutes.

3. Pour in the stock and bring to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 40 minutes, letting the flavours deepen.

4. If using eggs, crack them directly into the simmering soup and poach gently for about 4 minutes. Use one egg per person and one egg to stir in the soup. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Place a slice of bread in each bowl.

6. Ladle the hot soup over the bread, add an egg to each bowl.

This month’s film is, of course, Italian. The Children’s Train is a true masterpiece — one of those rare films that stays with you for long. The performances are exceptional, the scenography breathtaking, and the subtle thread of violin music carries a depth of emotion that lingers. It’s a story told with beauty and heart about strength and friendship! I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I did. You can watch it on Netflix!

Do you want to catch up on some of the previous months? Please head to my Journal here: https://lindbjerggraphic.com.au/journal/

Feel free to share “let’s hygge” with a friend…

I wish you a lovely month of October with lots of hygge!