Ilene and Gary Modica

Ilene and Gary are award-winning bloggers and authors of two memoirs, "When Your Heart Finds Its Home" and “Our Italian Journey,” and now a Tuscan guidebook, "Tuscany Treasures- A Journey Through 31 Towns." Their first book, "Our Italian Journey," was written as they traveled through various towns they stayed and explored while sharing their trials and tribulations and laughter. They describe artful depictions of Italy’s seducing charm, their experiences in daily life, Italy’s cultural differences, and the well-known Italian zest for living. Live vicariously through them in their spiritual experiences throughout this beautiful country they can now call home. Their very first memoir has been transformed into an audiobook! The best part is that they've narrated it themselves, enhancing the connection between author and audience and bringing their written words to life in a new way. Listening to their own voices recount the stories and experiences that shaped their lives has been an incredibly personal and emotional journey. Whether you've been a longtime supporter or just discovered their story, we hope this audiobook is a captivating and immersive experience. This audiobook beautifully captures the essence of Italy, its people, and the strong sense of community that defines life in small Italian towns. With alternating writing styles and reflections, Ilene and Gary invite readers to accompany them on a journey of self-discovery and transformation in the heart of Tuscany. Their second book, "When Your Heart Finds Its Home," continues this journey, yet it stands alone as a travel memoir. The pandemic hindered but didn’t deter this couple from fulfilling their dream. This book is the encapsulation of that dream and a guide for those searching for something more. Home is wherever we feel settled and at peace, and if we’re lucky, home can bring forth a new life, full of possibilities. These possibilities came to fruition for Gary and Ilene in their perfect Italian town. A home is a feeling – not a place. They invite you to join them on the final chapter of this quest. They now just released a third book, very different from their previous memoirs. "Tuscany Treasures- A Journey Through 31 Towns" is a guidebook, but not in the traditional sense. Towns come to life through woven personal stories, making this more than just a typical guide. We’ve combined practical knowledge with our love for Tuscany to help you plan a well-informed and deeply memorable trip. This guide is the perfect companion for an unforgettable Tuscan adventure – inviting you to explore Tuscany like a local. It took them three years to become Italian citizens through the Jurs Sanguinis and Jurs Matrimonii application through the Los Angeles, California Consulate. They would describe this process as a rollercoaster ride and currently help others with their applications, questions, and travel advice. Obtaining Italian citizenship became personal for Gary in wanting to bring his name back home to Italy. Currently, they are living in Lucca, Italy.