My Bella Vita

There's a New Blog in Town

2008-04-14T12:15:00.001+02:00

And, it's mine!

Yep. My Bella Vita is moving. So, come on over and join the party!

Italian Politics...Are We There Yet?

2008-04-11T10:32:00.006+02:00

What do Silvio Berlusconi, the Greek War hero, Ulysses, and bridge-shadowed fish have in common?

Hmmm...?

I'll give you a hint. I read about them all, in the same article, this morning.

Sunday and Monday are the big election days in Italy, and although I can't yet vote, I have had my fill of Italian politicians. But, why should I be any different?

They can't make decisions, they wantonly squander tax-payer dollars, ahem...euros, and, is it just me, or is Silvio looking younger every election?

But, I digress...the article.

Apparently Ulysses attempted to pass the Straits of Messina, crew in tow, met with heavy winds and turbulent waters, and crashed into what is now, Taormina, Sicily.

A few thousand years later, in 1865 to be exact, the Italian governement proposed building a bridge to unite Sicily with mainland Italy, a.k.a, Calabria. That was 142 years ago.

There is no bridge.

It is important to note the Bridge Project (as I'll call it here) has never been scratched, but rather has been actively pursued...for the last 142 years.

In this time, many a person has researched, drafted, and planned for the bridge. Even French sea explorer, Jacques Cousteau got in on the action, conducting a study to determine the effects the bridge's shadow would have on sea life.

And, here we are, April 2008, and the Bridge Project is a hot election item. Berlusconi supports finishing the bridge and claims doing so will jolt the economy and infuse patriotism into Italian hearts. His rival, Walter Veltroni, wants to focus on what he calls, more realistic goals, and improve Italian roads and school systems.

It will be an interesting weekend. Yet, I can't help but wonder. Win or lose, Silvio or Walter, will this bridge ever be built? And, if so. When?

Read the full article here.

Also, visit Sara at Ms. Adventures in Italy for her addition of La Buona Cucina Americana...bacon baked beans and all!

Hugs are in the Mail!

2008-04-10T08:14:00.000+02:00

When breezing through downtown Catanzaro last week I passed a lovely house, with the most heart-warming mail box attached to the door. I have walked this street many times, always failing to notice this proud display of love, happiness, and surely, kindness!

And, isn't it lovely?

It made me wonder what type of mail a person with such a loving mail box could expect?

Love letters, perhaps?

Messages from a secret admirer?

Bills from Enel?

Here's hoping there is nothing in your mail box today besides hugs, kisses, and messages of joy! If you see a nasty 'ole bill...just push it to the back. It can wait until Friday!

Happy Love Thursday!

Italian Games

2008-04-09T10:50:00.000+02:00

You have to get up pretty early to beat an Italian at his own game. I know this. Yet, I tried.

It's blogosphere knowledge my father-in-law worries about my eating habits. He buys me chocolate to "fatten me up" and encouraged his sister to "talk to me about my problem."

So, one day, after he growled at me for refusing more chicken, I thought I'd address the issue - head on!

"Don't worry about me," I tell him. "I'm healthy!"
"You don't eat anything!" He scolds me. "You want an onion? Garlic? An orange?"

(Boh!)

Ahem. "No. You see, Nino," I patiently explained. "You don't know how much girls eat, because you only had sons. Girls don't eat as much as boys."
Heh?
(He has problems hearing sometimes, so I raised my voice and repeated...)

"You don't know how much girls eat. You. only. had. sons!"
(Dang. I'm good!)

"I had a wife, and SHE ate!"
.......

A few days later, he asked me if I need anything from the store.

"I'll get him this time," I think. "I'll confuse him 'up good'."
"Yes, actually," I begin. "I need something for my hair."
"More shine...more shine...." I say as I toss my hair from side to side.

I look at him, certain I am about to get a startled response.

Without blinking an eye, he said, "Ok. Shine for your hair!"
So, I backtrack.

"No. No. I don't want anything! It was a joke. A joke. Understand?"
An hour later, he shows up with this.

"Sei pronta a splendere?

You ready for shine???

Nope. You can't beat an Italian at their own games. You can try. You can play along. But, you won't win! Trust me on this.

Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit

2008-04-08T09:22:00.002+02:00

of Happiness.

Borrowed from philosopher John Locke, Thomas J. hit the mark when he penned these famous words. "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness."

But, who knew the" pursuit" part would be so darn hard?

In the 2006 movie, "The Pursuit of Happiness," Chris Gardner (played by Will Smith), laments the pursuit of the ever-distant, and seemingly unattainable, happiness. A hard-up salesman, Gardner finds himself raising his two year old son alone on the streets on San Francisco, bouncing between homeless shelters and subway station restrooms. If you haven't seen the movie, it is quite a tear-jerker, as Gardner spends most of the movie, in the pursuit of happiness.

Apparently, we all do.

In a recent Newsweek article, 8 out of 10 Americans claim to think about their happiness at least once a week. However, according to Eric Weiner, author of the new book, "The Geography of Bliss," America is far from being the happiest country on Earth. In fact. We are 23rd

You can read Eric's book, as I hope to soon, to discover the secrets some countries already know. Countries like Denmark, Switzerland, Holland, and Iceland (I'm seeing a chilly pattern here) are among the happiest, while some sources place Britain at # 41, Italy at # 50, and France at # 62!

Just to help you through the day, here's a little thought to keep you smiling.

Ain't got no cash,

Ain't got no style

Ain't got no girl to make you smile

But don't worry

Be happy

Cause when you worry

Your face will frown

And that will bring everybody down

So don't worry,

Be happy...

So, how about you? Do you think you are happy, and if so, where do you live?

Meme Monday: Friday Fill-Ins

2008-04-07T08:38:00.003+02:00

Last month Il Cedro and My Bella Vita offered a give-a-way in conjunction with the 5 Minutes for Mom's Ultimate Blog Party, and one of my new favorite bloggers won. Playful Professional of Play More, Laugh More, Live More, then introduced me to Friday Fill-Ins. I *love* how this blog-thing works. Don't be jealous, Kevin Bacon, you're in our six degrees, too!

While I may be posting this baby on Monday, everyone else posted on Friday. Go to the Friday Fill-Ins blogsite to check it out or play along.

---

1. Today I saw the tinest brown bird, sitting on a branch of our cherry blossom tree. He perched, chirped, then flitted away.

2. "It Wasn't Me," by Shaggy makes me wanna dance! Actually, I GET DOWN, BABY! Even now, when I found the video to attach to this post, I took a boogy break!

3. Splitting a few appetizers between friends is something I really miss in Italy. I love aperitivi, but sometimes a girl just misses TGIF, ya know?

4. My nephew, Cole is someone I'd like to get to know better. In that, I mean I can't wait to see the man he will become one day.

5. The smell of rain reminds me so much of springtime! Hey, I grew up in southeast Texas!

6. I made a grande vanilla cappuccino this morning, and that made it all better.

7. And as for the weekend, Friday night I watched my new favorite obsession, The Ghost Whisperer, Saturday my plans included teaching an English lesson and going to dinner in the mountains, and Sunday I watched Catanzaro play soccer against Benevento! Forza Gialla-Rossi!

Birthday Wishes for Mom

2008-04-04T10:31:00.000+02:00

At what point do we grow up and really meet our parents? I can't recall the first time I saw my mother, not as "my mom," but as another person.

My mother is a woman. A wife. A friend. But, when did I meet her?

It wasn't here...

Or, here...

My mother was quite possibly the best mom any child could hope for...yet, I didn't really appreciate it. I took it for granted when she stayed up late helping me with homework. I wasn't grateful when she worked during the day, and then drove me an hour and a half round-trip to dance lessons. I didn't say "thank you" when she enrolled me in acting class and drove me to Houston several times a week because "I could do what Laura does on Little House on the Prairie." I thought all mothers did those things.

She never missed a Jr. High basketball game, volleyball match, or track meet. She was at every game I cheered in for four years of high school and a year of college. She attended every mother's social for my sorority, and every college event, when I asked her to go.

Even now she edits my query letters and book proposals and doesn't laugh when I forget to add yeast when making bagels.

This weekend she will celebrate her birthday, and I sure wish I was there - or, she was here.

If she was here, I'd take her to our favorite seafood restaurant, nestled in the hills between Catanzaro and Lamezia. I wouldn't order wine, 'cause that's not her thing, but I'd get a big 'ole coke - and ask for ice. Afterwards, I would take her to Catanzaro Lido for a super-sized gelato and a stroll along the lungomare. And, I'd make her try limoncello - again!

Sadly for me, she is not here, so that mother-daughter date will remain a figment of my imagination, possibly forever. Instead, I will take the opportunity to finally tell her thank you.

Thank you for always putting us first.

Thank you for being strong, so we could always depend on you.

Thank you for being the kind of mother I pray I will be.

Happy Birthday, Mom. I sure am glad I got to know you.

Be sure to visit Barb at Art and Barb Live in Italy for this week's edition of la buona cucina americana, and some good old-fashioned scalloped potatoes!

The Side Effects of Love

2008-04-03T10:12:00.001+02:00

Love can make your heart beat a little faster...

It can make your hands shake or your head spin...

It can make you feel warm all over.

Kinda like this.

Isn't it comforting to know love really is all around? Last weekend Peppe and I stopped in at Bar Centrale in downtown Catanzaro Lido for a quick cap before Mass. He noticed the foam formation and reached for the camera.

You gotta love a man who thinks of the blog.

Happy LT, everyone, and may your hearts be warmed today - not by caffeine-overdose - but, by true love, close friends, and family ties.

Put Me in Coach...

2008-04-02T09:00:00.002+02:00

Last Saturday marked Opening Day at Kountze Little League, and the recently-progressed-into-the-machine-pitch-leagues, Cole was ready to play!

Now a seasoned member of KLL, and a fresh recruit of the Red Sox team, he knows what he's doing.

He also observed the absence of girls on his team this year, and was none too happy about this change.

I rooted for him from afar the best way I knew how.

I listed to John Fogerty's "Centerfield" at least 10 times, and wore my LU baseball cap all day. In fact, I thought about it a lot.

Having never been a true-blue baseball fan, per se, the following realization came as quite a surprise.

I miss baseball.

I miss it. A lot.

Growing up with a crew-full of cousins, we shared many a pick-up game after family dinners and on weekends.

I rarely played.

The fact is, I'm not that good. But, I'm not as bad as I think I am, either.

I have spent quite a few of my working days near a baseball field. I'm one of the lucky ones, who has loved every job I've ever had, including working for the Athletics Department at Lamar University, and organizing the intramurals for Walt Disney World employees.

I joined a co-ed softball team at Disney one year...The Cellar Dwellers. We won two games, and once the other team was even there! God, that was fun.

I don't, however, think it is the sport I miss, as much as what it represents. Behind the layers of scandal, and corporate greed you've got America. Pure, 100% America.

And, I miss that, too.

Yes, I've loved every place I've lived as much as I've loved every job I've had, so this is no reflection on Italy, but sometimes a girl just misses seeing men running around in tight pants.

Hmmm....

Guess I could go to the ballet.

Adieu, Pazzo Marzo

2008-04-01T10:32:00.001+02:00

Ahhh....j'adore Spring!

I really do.

But, Pazzo Marzo got the best of me this year. It was a tough month!

Sooooo, HELLO APRIL, boy am I glad you're here. And, that's no joke!

Throughout the month, we alternated between basking in the sunny warmth, to dodging the cold wind, ice storms, and rain. March is so unpredictable, Italians even have a saying dedicated to its craziness.

Marzo pazzarello

esce il sole e prendi l’ombrello
Which, translated means that March in Italy is pretty much like Texas year-round.

Even when it is sunny, carry an umbrella.

So...adieu Pazzo Marzo and welcome sunny April. With any luck, we'll be at the beach in no time!

For all of you joksters out there, Happy Pesce d'Aprile! Here's a little prank form to get you started!

Meme Monday: Seven

2008-03-31T10:07:00.002+02:00

Guilty! I'm guilty...

I have been ignoring my meme-forwarding friends long enough - and, today I'm going to do something about it.

I love memes. Love them! Why wouldn't I? I get to talk all about myself!

Fun for you, I know...

So, for the next few Mondays (at least) I'm gonna catch up on my memes.

Today's meme was sent to be via my new friend Linda of Milanese Masala and it goes like this:

- Link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog.
- Share seven facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
- Tag seven people at the end of your post by leaving their names and links to their blogs.
- Tell them they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

I'm not gonna tag anyone. But, I *really* hope some of you will do this meme and let me know you've done it! Deal?

Here goes:

1. Like Linda, I have a pretty good gaydar. Although, while she outed Bert and Ernie, I've got my own doubts about Captain Jack Sparrow. Ohhh, come on! You wondered, too!

2. I am not an animal person. I can see other people's dogs, cats, and pigs and think they are cute, but I'm ok just being a pet-aunt. I'm actually a teeny tiny bit afraid of dogs. No, I was never bitten. This is a totally unfounded fear. Like heights! Or, spiders.

3. I never tasted a fig until I moved to Italy, and I don't like 'em.

4. I've wanted to live in New York City since I was three years old, and in fact, used to run away, and when I say "run away" I mean hide under my parent's bed, to NYC all the time!

5. I wasn't just a cheerleader in high school. I was All-American...

6. I need more than eight hours of sleep per night to function at my best.

7. I believe psychics use their 6th sense, and I love psychic shows like Medium, Ghost Whisperer, and even Psych!

Remember, if you do the meme...let me know. I wanna hear your secrets, too!

Better Late than Never - Poste Italiane

2008-03-28T09:23:00.006+01:00

It's a pretty widespread secret that our beloved, and much depended on, Poste Italiane sometimes lets us down.

Just a quick hop, skip, and jump around the blogosphere will tell you all about it.

You know what I say to that?

Expectations, people!! It's all about expectations. And, come on...give the poste a break! Sometimes they do come through for you.

Peppe and I have one common friend, and in that, I mean ONE person who was my friend AND his friend before we were "we." This lovely English lass who has returned to the City of Lights, sent us an auguri card for our wedding.

We received it this week.

The postman, after complaining because I didn't meet him at the street when he drove up on his scooter, handed me this.

Feeling slightly, ok...it was more than slightly, annoyed, I finished opening the bag. I found this.

Yep. It was opened. Not once, but twice.

Ain't that nice?

Upon closer examination, I noticed the post date from when she mailed the card from France.

For those of you in America, that is November 12, 2007.

And, people say Poste Italiane can't get their act together!

Hmmm...

In other news, be sure to visit Judith today to uncover more Cucina Americana, as she prepares her delicious chicken pot pie!

Buon weekend!

Un Segno di Dio

2008-03-27T08:21:00.000+01:00

Ah, yes...I am one of those people who look for signs all around me. I truly do. I hear them in songs and see them when walking down the street. One million other people may see the same "sign" - but I'm convinced it was sent - to ME.

Case in point. I'd recently completed a 3-month internship at Walt Disney World and was seriously contemplating applying for an advanced position. I only had one weekend to compile a proposal, and was adequately bogged down in last semester of college duties. I asked for a sign.

The next morning, I woke up an hour late, and rushed to get dressed and drive to work. Just as I was parking my car, I heard the song, "Beauty and the Beast," by Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson on a pop station. Now, I know...this may not seem odd to you, but I had never heard this song before. And, never on that radio station. It was, I believe to this day, un segno di Dio.

I spent the next three days compiling my proposal, made the 10-hour roundtrip drive to Austin for the interview, was offered the job, accepted, and moved to Orlando, where I was then offered a job at Disneyland Paris, where I then met my husband...

Ahhhh.....

While this is not the only time I have felt the power of "signs," it was the most profoundly life-changing.

Remember a few weeks ago when Peppe had that really bad day? You know...the 22,ooo euro day?

That afternoon, as we were driving to get a new coffee machine, we turned off of our street and saw this.

And, somehow, I felt a little better.

Happy Love Thursday!

Happy Easter and Buona Pasqua

2008-03-26T09:22:00.000+01:00

Ok. Ok. So, it has been three days and I've already wished you Easter blessings.

I know. I knooooow.

But, don't you want to hear about Easter in Calabria?

I woke up early Sunday morning (around 9:00, he he) to a beautiful sunny day. Sky had predicted thunderstorms throughout Italy - throughout the weekend. Since I am yet to see an accurate weather forecast from our beloved "cable" TV -I expected the best. And, that's what we got.

Until...

I walked out of my bedroom to find this note.

"Hmmm..." I thought.

"Death?"
"Should I go on?"
Being the risk-taker I am, I trudged onward and met my adversary around the corner.

He fought a good battle, but in the end was captured...

and, destroyed. After three karate-chops to the center, I had my surprise!

Yep. It's what you think it is. My very own Italian Grammar Workbook - per stranierei.

The Easter Bunny had left his own notes for a special boy.

"This way...this way...." The arrows directed him.

And, there, "hidden" on top of the television, was Peppe's Easter basket.

Ah, yes. Easter at our place is fun. We celebrate American-Italian style with both bunnies and baskets and enormously over-sized, surprise-filled chocolate eggs.

What could be better?

Note: I know this will be hard, but try not to judge the contents of afore-mentioned Easter basket. While some items were imported from the states, others, such as idolized Oreo cookies, were a rare find at local supermarket. And, the toothpaste? Well, let's not talk about the toothpaste!

Holy Weekend - Easter in Italy

2008-03-25T09:42:00.017+01:00

How many of you have ever been to church on Good Friday...you know, the Stations of the Cross service? How many of you have ever seen the Stations of the Cross - live?

Well, now I have.

Last Friday, yes...Good Friday to be exact was A' Naca in downtown Catanzaro. Held every year, this processional reenacts the Stations of the Cross, stopping momentarily in front of several important churches throughout the city, while circling the downtown area.

We arrived just in time for the beginning - at exactly 4:26 PM. The church was already crowded, and there were several miniature Mary's dressed for the occasion. There were four 10-foot crosses propped on their sides, and a confessional-full of other props and decorations just waiting to be needed

We waited.

Finally, we overheard...

"6:00? 6:00? It is going to start at 6:00? How will we keep the children occupied for that long?"

"Children?" I thought.

"How will I keep my husband occupied that long?"

And, so, in typical southern Italian style, we watched with interest the disorganization and scurrying around us. At 6:00, they opened the church doors and I saw this.

Hundreds, if not more, Calabrese anxiously awaiting - despite the cold wind and sub-Easter temps for the processional to begin.

My shock was momentarily distracted by the arrival of the star.

After another half hour, they were ready to begin.

Musicians heralded the commencement of A'Naca, as droves of clergymen and members from the various churches throughout Catanzaro began the processional.

Just before the final Stations, the Bishop appeared, and along with other church officials, read a declaration.

Jesus is raised from the dead, and in undoubtedly the most dramatic point of the event, Catanzaro's firemen heave the alter above their heads, as the crowd of onlookers gasp in amazement. Everyone cheers and a few women, standing bundled on the blistery steet, dab at their eyes.

The processional ends with Mary, who while rejoicing in the salvation of her son, is carried throughout the streets of Catanzaro, as dozens of young girls, dressed in like-clothing accompany her for the journey.

Pasqua Fun Facts

2008-03-22T08:58:00.002+01:00

"Easter sure is early this year," says someone every year.

And, it seems to be true. Predicting when we'll celebrate Easter is like trying to predict how many interceptions Tony Romo can throw in a play-off game. Yes, I'm still bitter...

But, I'll let you in on a secret.

About Easter, that is.

Pasqua is always the first Sunday after the first full moon after the Spring Equinox, which is near or on, March 20.

Interestingly, this year is the earliest Easter any of us will ever see the rest of our lives!

Crazy, huh?

Here's the scoop:

1) Easter will not be held on March 23 again until the year 2228 - 220 years from now.

2) The next time Easter will be one day earlier, March 22, will be in 2285 - 277 years from now.

3) Easter was celebrated on March 22 for the last time in 1818. So, unless you are Captain Jack Sparrow you missed that go around!

Additionally, only people who were born before 1913 (that's 95 and over, folks) have ever seen it this early before...and, they may not remember! (Gasp! Did I say that out loud?)

So, next time someone says, "Easter sure is coming early," you can set the record straight!

Buona Pasqua, and Happy Spring Equinox!

What's Cooking, ummm...In America?

2008-03-21T11:09:00.001+01:00

It seems, Judith, one of the most respected expats here in Italy, has been thinking and thinking...and she's had enough! She is fed up with the fast food, junk food-absorbed stereotype many folks have about Americans and our food.

And, she's going to do something about it!

Introducing: “La Buona Cucina Americana.”

So, Judith, Mary of The Flavors of Abruzzo, Sara of Ms. Adventures in Italy, Michelle of Bleeding Espresso, Judy of Over a Tuscan Stove, Barb of Barb and Art Live in Italy, and yours truly are going to shower the world we live in - and those of you who join us - with homestyle, American recipes we love.

I know. I know...

"Another food blog..." you may be thinking.

"There are already a number of great foodie sites all over the blogosphere."

And, you'd be right.

But, this one is just a tad different.

Judith is challenging us.

Each recipe will be posted for both our American readers, in English, with US measurements, AND in Italian, using metric measurements.

What fun!

So, each Friday one of us will post a recipe, and the others will direct you there through a link on their site. Kinda like this.

"Hey guys, Mary of The Flavors of Abruzzo is getting things started TODAY with her version of Shepherd's Pie. Check it out!"

But, that is "for real," so, seriously - check it out!

Be sure to check back each Friday for a new Cucina Americana recipe, and send your Italian friends. In other words...share the wealth!

Meanwhile in America, two of my new favorite foodie bloggers, Maryann of Finding la Dolce Vita and Marie of Proud Italian Cook are hosting their own party.

Tomorrow is Festa Italiana.

And, you are invited to share your favorite Italian food and drink recipes with them for this delightful feast.

So, without further delay, I present to you...

ANGRY PASTA

Or, as we say in Italian

Pasta All' Arrabbiato

Without exception, this is my all-time favorite, easy-to-make Italian dish. In fact, we have some version of this baby once a week.

You'll need:

- Spaghetti (one pound)

- Cubed pancetta (1/2 pound)

- Tomato sauce (2 1/2 cups)

- Garlic (one clove)

- Crushed red pepper (to taste)

- Grated parmesan cheese (to taste)

- Olive oil (one tablespoon)

Now...
1. Bring salted water to a boil and add pasta, cooking according to directions on the box.

2. Heat olive oil and garlic over medium heat and add pancetta.

3. Brown pancetta.

4. Add tomato sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, but not dry out. (10 minutes)

5. Just before the pasta is ready, add crushed red pepper to the sauce.

6. Combine spaghetti and sauce and serve immediately.

7. Add grated parmesan cheese and additional crushed red pepper, to taste.

Delizioso!

Heart Palm Leaves Make the Heart Happy

2008-03-20T09:04:00.007+01:00

Unlike America, Catholic churches in Italy don't give palm leaves for Palm Sunday services. What a shock! (You can read more about this unusual habit in last year's Palm Sunday post.)

So, this year I was prepared. I arrived just in time to purchase this.

Apparently, Father Alessandro had already blessed this leaf, so the price went up. Or, it was inflation. Either way, we paid the man double what we paid last year - a whopping 2 euro - before heading to Mass.

But, I think it was worth it. Don't you?

Happy LT, everyone!

---

I was planning to describe the 500 people spilling from the piazza for Mass, with Padre Ale's voice booming from the front, accompanied by a slightly off-key church choir. I was going to tell you about the group of 30-something men who stood at the back of the square smoking cigs, or the 80-something white-haired grandmother who chatted on her cell...but you aren't interested in that. This is Love Thursday, so enjoy!

Festa di San Giuseppe

2008-03-19T08:38:00.000+01:00

You know I get overwhelmed when there are too many holidays and fun events going on at once.

Remember?

Well, it has happened again and I am just bubbling over with things to talk about. I know, I've promised to let you in on more details of our Sicily trip. So, for that, I will pass you on to Michelle, who is a few stops ahead of me on the Giro di Sicilia. Read her take on Tindari here and here, and check out this cool wine pump we stumbled across in Palermo.

Because, my friends. Today is officially

San Giuseppe Day

Italy has hundreds of saint days throughout the year, with many saints celebrating on the same date. If you are named for a saint, as many Italians are, you celebrate your onomastico on that day. For all of us non-sainted named folks (as of last check, there are still no Saint Cherryes), we celebrate on November 1, or, All Saint's Day.

San Giuseppe, aka Saint Joseph, celebrates his day on March 19. Not only do all Italians named Giuseppe, Peppe, Peppino, Giuseppina, Giusy, so on and so forth, celebrate their day today, but today is the Italian Father's Day celebration. It's only fitting you know, since Saint Joseph was Jesus's loyal stepfather.

Here, you see my "Giuseppe" with his father during a church service.

There was a small upheaval in our house when the Vatican opted to reschedule La Festa di San Guiseppe to Saturday, March 15, as to not interfere with Holy Week celebrations.

If it had been "my day," I would have celebrated on both days, but, Peppe refused, stuck to his guns, and declared that March 19 was his day.

So, for Peppe, Peppino, my cousin Joe, and all fathers out there - in Italy and beyond...

Auguri and Buona Festa di San Giuseppe!

Be sure not to miss out on your day! Click here to find your onomastico!

Grabbing a Whopper

2008-03-18T11:24:00.012+01:00

As promised, I must confess why I was sans comment on many of my posts - and your blogs - last week.

Yes...I had a friend in town, but that wouldn't have kept me away! No way - no how!
You see my friends, Calabria, and Italy in general, is chock-full of new experiences just waiting to be grabbed up. Last week, I grabbed one...In fact, I grabbed a whopper.

The picture you see to the right is the Ospedale Pugliese in downtown Catanzaro. You see....

Well, let me back up a bit.

All was well last Monday until 2:00 PM. I was actively writing blog posts and chatting with friends, when I felt a sudden - a strangely powerful - pain in my lower back. In fact, I was somewhat immobilized and walked hunched over upstairs to rest in bed.

I consulted my trusty webmd and discovered I could have anything from gonorrhea to a strained muscle to gas. Pretty.

Since I was sure to be STD'less, knew I hadn't lifted more than a pen, and have felt gas pains in the past - I googled on. I called my mom. I called my students' to cancel a lesson. I called my mom, again.

A few hours later I shuffled to the airport to meet my friend.

After a night's worth of sleepless hours, I agreed to visit a doctor.

He punched, he pulled, he pressed - painfully so.

The final diagnosis?

Kidney infection.
Drink 2-3 liters of water a day, take this antibiotic, and give yourself a shot if the pain becomes unbearable. Yes, you read that correctly. "Give yourself a shot." When Peppe returned home from the pharmacy with five "fresh" needles, my friend and I explained how needle usage works in American.

"Diabetics. Junkies. That's it," she told him holding up a needle for emphasis.

"Well, you can trust me," he assured us. "I've given shots before."

Breaking my hard-core rule of never trusting a man who says, "Trust me," I let my husband give me a shot.

I felt absolutely - not even - .001% better.

So, I did what any red-blooded American girl would do. I filled up on Advil and Tylenol.

Over the next few days, I learned a few lessons about pain management with kidney infections.

- Walk. A lot. The pain is intensified when you lay down, and almost unbearable when you sit.

- Chug more water than you ever thought you could.

- Have an ample supply of Advil and Tylenol on hand, and alternate dosages every 4-6 hours.

I marched on through the week, taking my friend on various outings, shopping, and walking, walking, walking to avert the pain.

"If it's not better tomorrow, you are going to the hospital," Peppe tried to sound forceful as he laid down this rule three days in a row.

Finally, on Saturday evening, I relented, and for the first time in 17 years, I went to the ER.

We arrived at L'Ospedale Pugliese in downtown Catanzaro around 6:00 PM. Check-in was painless and we were sent back to see a doctor by 6:15. And, they say socialized medicine will slow us down in America! After a few minutes of questions, pokes, and needles I was sent upstairs to have an ultrasound.

This, in fact, was the most notable difference between Italian and US hospitals. I wasn't laid on a gurney and rolled around. Instead, I walked to the elevator, pressed the 4th floor button, and went to see the ultrasound dottoressa myself. In 10 minutes, she was squirting me with a chilly gel-like substance, and Pep was looking on the screen hoping to see a bambina. Luckily, he didn't.

The oh-too-thorough doctor, wanting to further scrutinize my goods, asked me to drink a liter of water, walk around, and return in 30 minutes.

During this 4th floor passeggiata, I noticed another profound difference. A thick whiff of cigarette smoke-filled air bit my lungs and stung my eyes.

"Ah, yes," Peppe proclaimed. "We are in Italy."

One minute later, I see an orderly with a light green surgical cap enter the hallway, with a cigarette hanging from his lips. He walked right past this sign without looking up.

Another ultrasound, a visit to the urologist, and a return to the ER doctor wrapped up my evening. Just before leaving, I was asked if I wanted a shot to help with the pain.

"Why not," I thought.

Trying to make small talk with the nurse, I told her about Peppe's fruitless shot earlier in the week.

"Don't worry," she told me nicely. "There's enough room there for two!"

After she left, I looked to Peppe for confirmation.

"Did she just say there was enough room on my ass for two shots?"

Peppe struggled, unsuccessfully, to repress a grin.

"I can't imagine she would be that rude," he quickly added.

Hum! Can't imagine!

Indignantly, I marched from the ER and rubbed my sore bum.

Big butt...hum!

I'm never going back there again!

And, the Winner Is....

2008-03-17T09:01:00.001+01:00

Last Week's Ultimate Blog Party was a huge success turning out 1,498 girlie bloggers! Can I say, "WOW?!?" What an amazing event!

I must pause for a moment here, and profusely apologize to everyone for my lack of comment responses this week...more details tomorrow!

You may remember we had a few little contests going on over here at MBV. One two-night stay at Il Cedro B&B was offered through the 5 Minutes for Mom gang, another was offered through comments right here on My Bella Vita.

And, now...without further ado, I proudly announce to the blogosphere our contest winners!

Selected by Pamela of Happy Panda through the 5 Minutes for Mom contest...

Cher and Gene Klosner of Stardust Lullaby

Yea, Rock On, Parrrrtay, Woo Hoo, Goooo Baaaaby (insert bells and whistles here)

And, selected by a random generator, as recommended by Plain Jane Mom...

Playful Professional of Play More, Laugh More, Live More

Way To Go, You Did It, You're a Winner, Ohhh Yea...(more bells and louder whistles)

Thanks to everyone who played along! It was a great party and I can hardly wait for next year. In fact, I can't wait...So, I am off to check out more new blogs I didn't get to this week.

So, welcome new pals and faithful friends, and although the church changed the day this year, it doesn't mean we all have to...so, Happy Saint Pat's Day! Drink more green beer!

My Blog Wants to

2008-03-14T09:41:00.003+01:00

Party all the time
Party all the time

Party all the tiiiiiiimme.

Now sing that again and make it really off-key.

Perfect!

You sound just like me!

Well, folks, it is that time of year again. The sun is peeking through the clouds, birds are chirping, and - or, is it just me? - the days are getting a little bit longer! You know what that means? It's time for a blog party! And, not just any blog party. An Ultimate Blog Party!

The blog masterminds at 5 Minutes for Mom are at it again, and this year's UBP (Ultimate Blog Party) is set to be a hit.

Oh, excuse me...I'm soooo rude...

(insert embarrassing looks here)

I haven't introduced myself.

Ciao, I'm Cherrye. I moved to the neck-of-the-woods in the sole-of-the-boot "Italy" almost two years ago. And, I love it.

But, it hasn't always been easy. I've been here and there and back again too many times to count and learning the language is no kid's play. I've dealt with Italian bureaucracy, Italian people, Italian clothes, Italian food...and so much more.

I'm a new wife, an aunt, and a great granddaughter. I'm a freelance writer, an English teacher, a Bed and Breakfast owner. I'm an expat.

And, we talk about it all here at My Bella Vita.

To come to my party, you don't need to do your nails or buy new shoes - although if you're like me and need an excuse - I won't tell! Shhhh....

But, to win a cool prize...

What?!? There are prizes?

Yep! And, to win a cool prize you either need to register your blog at 5 Minutes for Mom, or comment on at least 20 blogs.

You might even win my prize!

MBV and Il Cedro B&B are giving away a FREE two-night stay for two people at Catanzaro's favorite B&B. (Or, at least...our favorite!) Heck, it's even transferable. We know not EVERYONE can make it to Calabria, so...we're cool like that! Also, if you comment on at least five of my posts (new or archived) during the party, we'll have another drawing-just for you guys!

Oops, I gotta run...we're outta wine.

Enjoy the party!

I'll be back!

----

PS-My top prize choices are

INTL 2 — Nonfiction Proposal Tutorial

Provided by: Mary DeMuth

# 24 — Blog Design

Provided by: Sweet ‘n Simple Design

# 67 — Blog Makeover

Provided by: Shauna

Other fun prizes are numbers 36, 54, 58, 79, 21, 53, 20. All beauty "stuff," jewelry gifts, and paper goodies are pretty cool, too! I have both a US and Italian mailing address, so... :-)

Love Thursday: Let the GOLD Times Roll

2008-03-13T09:06:00.000+01:00

Last Thursday we discussed new marriages and fairytale weddings, and, I don't know about you, but I felt a twinkle in my toes all week. (Of course, it could be the drinks I've been downing at this year's UBP, but I'm not admitting to anything!)

But, this week, I have the Ultimate Love Thursday post. Ladies and gentlemen of the blogosphere, it is my great honour (see, saying it in British makes it that much more regal) to present to you, on the weekend of the anniversary of 50 blissfully married years...Maw Maw and Papa.

Oh, what I wouldn't give to have an electronic version of their wedding picture - taken 50 years ago this Sunday - to show you here. Close your eyes and imagine it. (Well, open your eyes, read this, then close your eyes and imagine it.)

The fresh faces of two young lovers...her with her thick black hair classically tied up, him with the same shy smile and fresh-out-of-the-military crew cut, standing behind a small three-tiered, blue-flowered wedding cake, slicing the first bite.

To hear them tell the love story is enchanting. Her sister was already married to his brother, and they knew these two would be perfect together. So, they set it up.

"We're going out to see a movie tonight," her sister told her. "Ernest wants you to come."

"There's a new movie we want to see," his brother said. "Shirley asked if you were coming."

It worked.

Now 6 children, 24 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren later...more in love than ever.

They are celebrating this weekend, with family and friends at the same hometown mansion where my own friends hosted a bridal shower only five months ago.

My grandfather prepared a hand-written list for the DJ. Number one on the list? "When a Man Loves a Woman."

He once told us he prays he lives longer than my grandmother.

"It can only be one day longer," he added. "But, I want to always be here to take care of her."

My mother, in all of her comback glory, was quick to reply with, "We hope you're always here, too. She's too spoiled now for the rest of us!"

Ah yes. Everyone will be there to celebrate this weekend. Well, almost everyone.

Everyone but us.

But, in my absence I'm sending positive thoughts and prayers for many more years.

Many more happy years.

Many more healthy years.

Auguri Maw Maw and Papa and Happy LT!

Cutting Through the Tape - Part II

2008-03-12T09:08:00.000+01:00

The saga continues...

When we last saw our hero, he was knee deep in nastro rosso and fighting his way towards the tourism office in Catanzaro.

Ma, perche'?

Because...in 2006, just as the handsome proprietor was set to build his B&B empire, the APT Tourism Board in Catanzaro announced that, in an effort to boost local tourism, they would refund business owners 50% of their expenses for upgrading and/or remodeling their businesses.

After saving invoices, receipts, slips, and signatures for more than a year and half, he cautiously hands over his folder.

---

Scene IV: APT Tourism Office in Catanzaro

"Here you go, sir. All of our invoices and receipts for the construction, new furniture, linens, etc. etc. etc..."

Tourism Man: "Oh, yea...about that. You can only use "new" receipts - things you spent after you opened. The old ones aren't eligible."

"But, you are the one who told me what to do."

Tourism Man: "Yes, I know. But, you can make up new receipts and just pay the VAT again."

"Did the law change?"

Tourism Man: "No."

"Well, then why did you tell me to go ahead last year?"

Tourism Man (shrugs): "This is just the law, Sir."

After dealing with defected coffee machines, phantom phone calls, and misspelled city names, he called it a morning.

We discussed the situation and attempted to play the Glad Game.

"Well," I said. "We can buy another coffee machine to use at the B&B now, and then we will have it when we finish the new house."

"That's what I was thinking," he agreed.

Problem #1 - Settled!

---

"We'll go finish up that stuff with the Questura on Monday...It's not a big deal," I promised.

"Yea...ok."

Problem #2 - Done!

---

"You got the marriage certificate in the end, right?!? So, that worked out."

"Yes." Then, he added, "The guy was even nice."

Problem #3 - Not even a problem!

---

"So...no money, eh?" I asked glumily.

"Nope."

"Wow. I think I am going to cry..." I warned him.

"Why?"

"That's 20 thousand euros. I'm in shock!"

"No, sweetie. It was 22 thousand euros."

"I guess we know where the buck stops, huh?"

"Yep. Right in front of us!"

Note: Happier days are ahead! Coming soon - Tindari, Sicily, Touring Palermo, and the Search for the Perfect, or any, Pizza!

Cutting Through the Tape - Part I

2008-03-11T09:04:00.000+01:00

Oh, how I TRY to keep this place upbeat and positive (I am speaking of the blog, of course), but sometimes you have a really crappy day - or, your husband does - and you need to share. And, sometimes...just sometimes...that crap won't fit into one blog post. So, here you have...

"Cutting Through the Tape - Part I"

In order to understand the full gravity of the day, I need to fill you in on a few things I've failed to mention over the last couple of weeks.

1) Our beloved coffee machine, no doubt due to the untrained hands who've touched it lately, is in the shop. The repairman said he'd need a week. That was last week.

2) I didn't want to boast (after Erin's Questura adventure) but I went to the police headquarters, gave my fingerprints, and was in and out in less than 20 minutes. A few days later they called and said I needed to return.

3) Peppe went to the Comune di Catanzaro to get an "official" copy of our marriage license (to give the Questura). Upon returning home, he noticed a misprint.

Cherrye Moore

Place of Birth: Catanzaro, Italy

4) When we began rebuilding Il Cedro, we followed the rules to a "T," saved all invoices, and stayed in regular contact with the powers that be so we would qualify for the APT's "tourism boost" compensation. That was a year and a half ago.

Enter: Last Friday.

Scene I: The Coffee Machine Repair Shop

"Hi. I called twice this week and the owner (your father) said my machine would be ready today."

Repair-Dude's Son: "Nooo. Dad didn't mention it. Let me see... (wait...wait...wait...) Oh, yea. He has to order a part. We're not sure when it will be ready. You never know with the post..."

"Well, I need it for my business..."

Repair-Dude: "It's for a business? OH!!! Then, it isn't covered on warranty...Sorry!"

---

Scene II: The Questura in Catanzaro

"Hi. Someone called and said my wife needed to come back here. Do you know why?"

Questura Lady: "No, it is ok. She called us and said she had already completed the process, we told her what to do."

"Mmmm...excuse me?"

Questura Lady: "Yes, sir. I have it right here. (She holds up a piece of paper.) Your wife called this week and talked to us."

"No, ma'am. My wife didn't call you. She barely speaks Italian." (Thanks for the boost, sweetheart!)

Questura Lady (becoming agitated): "Well, sir. Someone called, are you saying I am lying?"

"I don't know. Are you? (ouch) And, unless you spoke English with her, it wasn't my wife, and it wasn't me. So, what does she need to do?"

Questura Lady: "I already told her what to do."

Dio Mio....

---

Scene III: The Comune di Catanzaro

"Hello, sir. I got this copy last week. It's my marriage certificate. There's a mistake."

Comune Guy: "Mistake?" (He takes the paper.) "Where? I don't see a mistake!"

"Oh, it is ok. It's just that my wife wasn't born in Catanzaro. She was born in America."

Comune Guy: "Oh. Well. I didn't do this one."

(Peppe gives him all relevant birth and marriage information.)

Comune Guy: "Jefferson? It doesn't exist."

"Si. It does. Jefferson County."

Comune Guy: "Oh! I found it. Jefferson C-I-T-Y."

"Noooo....County. Jefferson County. Jefferson City is in another state!"

Stay tuned for the conclusion of "Cutting Through the Tape" where Pep talks to the folks at the APT (tourism office) and discovers where the buck really stops.

A Bit Belated

2008-03-10T08:51:00.000+01:00

but sincere all the same...

Saturday was International Women's Day, or as we dire in Italiano, Feste della Donna. And, I must say, I'm getting pretty good at celebrating this baby.

Well, not actually "on" the day, per se, but in the general scope of the matter - I get my party on.

Last year, my first official donna fest was only a few days before the inaugural Calabrian Women's Summit, held right here at Il Cedro B&B. It was a bit belated...but, we made up for it.

This year, it seems that yet again, I am a bit behind. One of my good friends, and former colleagues "JM" is on her way (as we type) to Catanzaro!

You know what that means? One week of girl gabbin', lunches fuori, mean ritas, shopping at the market (instead of being rushed and watched), and 20 more pounds of my stuff, carried in a spare suitcase, by my amica. (If you've never lived in southern Italy, you might not appreciate the novelty of girl's day lunches and leisurely "friend" shopping, but trust me - this is big!)

In keeping with the international flavor of the event, here are pictures of some of my favorite international women!

At Disneyland in California with famed musician, native Korean, and my dear old friend, Soon Hee Newbold.

Spending my 30th birthday in NYC with Iranian-born dentist, avid traveler, and tell-it-like-it-is friend of 20 years, Dr. Shawn.

Ah, yes. International Women's Week (did anyone catch that) will be sublime. And, to all of you out there, new readers, faithful friends, mothers, daughters, and sisters, I wish you "Auguri" and Happy Women's Day!

Note: In the top picture, I am surrounded by Pirates of the Caribbean "pirate" from Canada and France! Yes, friends. this is where I worked in Paris!

Moore/Mannella Marriage Meme

2008-03-06T10:11:00.010+01:00

This Marriage Meme was sent to me by a friend who found it on Kerry's Khaos. What fun! And, how appropriate for this week's installment of Love Thursday!

1. Where/how did you meet? We met in the burbs of Paris in 2000. We had seen each other around for a few months, and were officially introduced at.a.bar....(my mother hates this part!) You can read more about how it all started here.

2. How long have you known each other? This summer will be EIGHT years. God, time flies....

3. How long after you met did you start dating? Over two years. When we met in Paris, we were just friends. We had the language thing happenin' and well, to be honest, I wasn't looking for a husband!

4. How long did you date before getting engaged? Four years.

5. How long was your engagement? Seventeen months. The average is 18, so we were "quick!"

6. How long have you been married? March 16 will be FOUR months.

7. What is your anniversary? We were married on November 16. He first visited me in Texas on November 12. We discussed our feelings on November 14, and counted that as our "dating" anniversary. November is a good month for us.

8. How many people came to your wedding reception? 85-90

9. What kind of cake did you serve? We had cake coming out of our ears!! We served each adult guest an individual white wedding cake. (Please forgive the poor image quality, I just can't seem to find my professional pictures of the mini cakes.)

Then, we had a small three-tiered cake to cut and serve to the children. The top layer was tiramisu, the middle layer, chocolate, and the third layer, Italian cream cake. Delicious! The individual cakes mirrored the design on the larger cake.

10. Where was your wedding? Beaumont, Texas! The ceremony was at Saint Anne Catholic Church, with the reception following at the MCM Elegante' Hotel.

11. What did you serve for the meal? We had a cocktail hour preceding dinner, where we served crab-stuffed drunken tomato bruschetta, sausage and cheese-stuffed mushrooms, fruit, and assorted cheeses. We had buffet stations for dinner. One station featured a Horseradish-Crusted Beef Tenderloin, with assorted rolls and accompaniments, another station had Jalapeno-Crusted (we were into the "crust" thing) Tilapia, served with homemade jalapeno jelly. Our third station had a full salad bar and a shrimp and pepper-infused Asian salad. And, ya know...I think there were some rosemary potatoes in there somewhere, too!

12. How many people were in your bridal party? We had 4 bridesmaids, 3 groomsmen, a Maid of Honor, a Best Man...and, Cole!

13. Are you still friends with them? Goodness, yes...it was only a few months ago. Plus, many of them are family...so "for better or worse" applies.

14. Did your spouse cry during the wedding ceremony? No, neither of us did. But, I wore waterproof mascara-just in case.

15. Most special moment of your wedding day? Pep and I have discussed this, and we can't choose just one. He loved our first dance. I loved seeing him for the first time when I walked down the aisle. He came almost half-way to meet me, since I had to go solo...it was nice. We had a Texas BBQ for the Rehearsal Dinner, and hired a professional dancer to teach line dances. It was a great icebreaker for the wedding party, and it really set the mood for the following day.

16. Any funny moments? My 96-year old great-grandfather came - and DANCED. He even complained to my mom that the daughter who brought him wouldn't let him drink! My cousin tried to get Pep's cousin to keep up with him on Miller Lite rounds. After, oh, I don't know...10 drinks, Pep's cousin started making up Italian dances and teaching them to everyone. No one even knew he made them up! It was hilarious!! My mom rented us an old-fashioned photo booth and the owners sent me a CD of all of the pictures from the night. THAT was fun to see.

17. Where did you honeymoon? We stayed in town for a few days with our out-of-town guests and visited a new winery in Beaumont. We then flew to south Florida with Pep's cousin and visited my aunt. Italians are pazzi for Miami, and I planned to surprise Peppe with the trip. However, when his cousin decided to attend the wedding, I told Pep and we included Giu in our Miami plans. It was very fun - and very relaxing. After having Thanksgiving with my family in Texas, Peppe and I went to Belize and Guatemala.

18. For how long? Belize was 7 nights/8 days.

19. If you were to do your wedding over, what would you change? Hmmm...I would hire a different florist, because that was single strongest source of stress for the day. (Say that five times fast!)

20. What side of the bed do you sleep on? Right side-that's mine!

21. What size is your bed? Right now it is too small, but we are upgrading when we move.

22. Greatest strength as a couple? We work really well together. We have patience for each other, and we can talk each other out of being upset.

23. Greatest challenge as a couple? Cultural differences. Sometimes we just can't understand WHY something is so dang important.

24. Who literally pays the bills? Well, we work together for Il Cedro, but (don't tell him I am admitting this) he does most of the work. We pay bills with this. The money I make from teaching and writing is my "fun" money...you know...like Palermo!

25. What is your song? We have several...I LOVE "The One," by Shakira, and we both think of this as our song. Actually, I wish we'd have used this as our first dance song (amend question #20.)

26. What did you dance your first dance to? The Way You Look Tonight, by Frank Sinatra.

27. Describe your wedding dress. I flew home immediately after Peppe and I got engaged, and bought a wedding magazine as soon as I hit the states. During my five-hour layover in Philadelphia, I tore out a picture of a beautiful Maggie Sottero dress. I tried on at least 50 other dresses, but couldn't choose one until I had found *that* dress. I finally found it, and it was the one.

28. What kind of flowers did you have at your wedding? Calla lilies and roses

29. Are your wedding bands engraved? Yep. Mine says, "Peppe 11-16-07." Can you guess what his says?

Ahhh....thanks for letting me relive it all, folks! This was a fun meme. If you are interested, you can read more about our wedding here. If you do this meme, be sure to let me know in the comments.

Happy LT, everyone, and a very special Auguri to my cousin, Scott (second from the right in the groomsmen picture) who is turning 30something today in Colmesneil, Texas!

Il Padrino in...Savoca

2008-03-04T10:41:00.002+01:00

otherwise known as "The Godfather Village."

That's right, folks. Believe it or not, everything you see in the movies IS NOT REAL.

Hollywood would try to trick and confuse us?

Sad, I know.

But, the small Sicilian village of Corleone, the quaint, close-knit town we all longed to visit when we watched The Godfather, is not realllly what you think it is. (Although, interestingly enough, Al Pacino's maternal grandparents immigrated from, no where other than, Corleone, Italy...Thanks, Wikipedia!)

So you see, Corleone, does in fact exist, and is a town in the province of Palermo, with around 12,000 citizens, modern roads, and a mafia presence that apparently didn't appreciate the liberties taken by Mr. Coppola...or, Mr. Puzo for that matter, when creating this blockbuster hit.

So, they looked South - and East - and far from any perils that may exist a little too close to home. The solution?

Savoca, Italy.

If a more ideal location could have been found, I'd like to see it. Savoca is everything you see in the movie, although, in our case, with far fewer folks. During our hour or so passeggiata, we saw one woman walking, two men in an ape, and some of the most compelling scenery we saw throughout the weekend.

We saw dozens of churches, including the church where Michael marries Apollonia.

It was perfect for a half-day excursion from Messina, and even the drizzle of raindrops, and the cool wind didn't distract from the experience. Savoca is everything you could want in a Sicilian mountaintop village, and I, for one, would love to go back!

Note: Notice in the first picture, Michelle and I practicing our mafia-life flipoffs in front of the still operational Bar Vitelli. However, in typical southern Italy style, it was closed on our Friday evening visit...Boh! This happens to be the lone photo of the two of us insieme during our Sicilian getaway.

The Ding Dong, The Lion's Roar, and Ave Maria

2008-03-03T11:00:00.003+01:00

Madonna della Lettera isn't the only interesting thing to see in the port city of Messina, but she makes her presence known throughout the town, as evidenced in one of the more charming city attractions.

The Bell Tower of the Cathedral contains the most complex mechanical clock in the world, and it shows off it's stuff every day at noon for tourists in caravan buses, locals striding by, and an overwhelming, if not disproportionate, number of grey and white stooping pigeons.

After finding an unclaimed seat on a bench on the opposite side of the piazza, the untrained tourist won't know what to expect. We were lucky. We had Vanessa, who although she remains blogless, is a frequent commenter both here and there.

We were prepared.

At 12:00, the church bells are struck (as they are every hour and every quarter hour) by two, ten foot bronze statues representing the heroines of the Sicilian Vespers war, Dina and Clarenza.

Immediately following the chimes, the bell tower comes to life. The lion, in all of his 13-feet of gilded bronze glory, waves his flag, wags his tail, turns his head to face the piazza, and roars three times. Here, he was caught mid-roar!

As if awakened by the mighty lion, the rooster, who sits patiently between the two heroines, flaps his wings, raises his head, and crows three times. However, he was a little malato during our visit, and we barely got a croak. But, we got it three times.

An angel then delivers the famous letter to the Virgin Mary. She is greeted by Saint Paul, who is followed by the Messinese ambassadors, who each bow in reverence as they pass her.

Throughout this poignant presentation, Ave Maria is blaring throughout the square, in an intense, yet, humbling demonstration of Messina's rich history, strength, and perseverance. It is truly a must-see for any visitor, and was worth the 6:00 AM wake-up call needed to get us there on time. No visit to Messina is complete without it.

Madonna of the Letter

2008-02-29T10:47:00.001+01:00

Like most - if not all - Italian towns and villages, the port city of Messina, the entranceway to Sicilian civilization, is blessed with a patron saint.

For Messina, Madonna della Lettera, is that saint.

Standing boldly and shining like a beacon (in all of her gold-toned glory) Madonna of the Letter is the first sight many visitors see as they approach Messina, via ferry, from Calabria.

It was the first thing we saw, for sure! And, how could we not? She reaches six meters - nearly 20 feet - into the air.

What we did not see, due to the view-destructing scaffolding surrounding the statue, was the inscription "Vos et ipsam civitatem benedicimus," or "We bless you and your city."

According to popular legend, the Virgin Mary presented a letter to Messina residents who visited her in Palestine in 42 AD, congratulating the city on their Christian conversion. The letter is said to be in safe keeping inside one of Messina's churches, but a translation of the letter can be found here.

Madonna della Lettura was unveiled in 1934 when Pope Pius XI who, using a remote control device created by Gugliemo Marconi, illuminated the statue from the Vatican City.

Stay tuned for more fun facts and interesting tidbits from our northern Sicilian tour...coming soon!

Ti Amo, Too

2008-02-28T13:35:00.001+01:00

For all of those "babies" and "Peppes" out there who are

1) too shy to emblazon their love on a public walkway
2) afraid of breaking the law (and getting caught)

-or-

3) who don't have a steady enough hand...

Directly from the street facing the Duomo in Palermo...

These are for you!

Can anyone guess why I liked them so much?

Happy Love Thursday everyone!

Testa Dura Strikes Again!

2008-02-26T14:57:00.000+01:00

Remember last week when my suocero lamented over, what he sees as, my poor eating habits? Well, that testa dura won't take "non" for an answer!

The next day, he showed up with this, and offered an excuse that the "bricklayer down the street" brought it by for me.

The following morning, I found this sitting on my desk.

And, the third day, he knocked on my office door, and handed me this.

Italians are funny!

Scaredy Cat on Vaca

2008-02-22T07:23:00.000+01:00

Oh, yes, friends. It is true. I am a BIG 'OLE fifone. Or, for those of you who prefer English - A BIG 'OLE WEENIE! It's true.

I am scared to death of the Mafia. Seriously.

So, why oh why am I leaving today on a jet train and heading towards the land of the mafiosi?

Cause, I'm also a risk-taker.

And, a traveler.

And, I can't say no to a good deal.

Today, fellow Americana in Calabria, Michelle, of Bleeding Espresso and I are setting out for our first girls' weekend. And, boy are we excited!

She bid her farewells to the blogworld, and uh, P yesterday and headed to Catanzaro, where she was met at the stazione with a fabulous blood-orange margarita. Well, technically, she had to wait the 3 km to get here, but then she had one. Lucky her.

You want in on the Siciliano fun?

Here are some of the places we plan to visit.

You can also check out some of the movies I've seen lately, in preparation for my trip, no doubt...all set in Sicily.

Johnny Stecchino

Il 7 e l'8

Il Postino

Come on, join in!

You'll feel like you are there with us. And, just to make it more autentico...I'll have a few extra cannoli - just for you!

Buon Weekend!

Please note: I will not have Internet access during this trip, but will respond to all comments when I return! Ciao!!

Sausage and Sweets - Sharing the Love

2008-02-21T20:43:00.000+01:00

Quick! What do homemade sausage and bakery-bought sweets have in common?

- They both begin with the letter "S"

- They are both, um...food

- They are both found in Italy

And, they both 'show the love!'

Heh?

Well, it's true.

It's common knowledge Pep spoils our construction crew. And, that wasn't the only time. Every morning he prepares their choice of Il Cedro espresso or cappuccino, along with whatever we offered our B&B guests for breakfast.

Then, after lunch...it's espresso round II!

Today, they shared the love with Peppe. Agostino, the uomo in charge, is from Gimigliano, a quaint village town about 20 minutes from Catanzaro. He and his family make homemade sausage, and today, he shared that sausage.

And, for Peppe, that means he shared the love.

Happy Love Thursday ya'll!

It's No Secret

2008-02-20T10:28:00.008+01:00

I miss Texas. Heck, I talk about it all the time.

But, I must say, I am usually the one in the family with bragging rights. It's normal for me to call home and tell my family about things I saw in Paris, Corfu, or even Calabria. Well, there's a first time for everything. And, that time was last week when I made my daily call home.

"Bill Clinton is in Lufkin tonight," Mom told me. "We're going to go!"

Being the yellow dog democrat I am, I couldn't control my excitement. I didn't sleep a wink, and even considered calling home in the wee hours of the next morning to get a full recap.

I not so patiently waited until mid-morning their time to talk to my sister, Charlee.

"You are going to die," were her first words to me.

"What?!? Tell me. Tell me!"

So, she begins her "Bill Clinton's in Lufkin, Texas review" with all of the drama and anticipation one would expect from a former One Act Play "Best Actress" nominee.

"We waited in line for two hours to get in, and we stood the whole time!"
"It was amazing!"
"He looks just like he does on TV..."
She then tells me about the post-speech mingle, where the president meets and greets with, who he hopes will be, his wife's supporters.

"I pushed my way to the other side, because I knew he'd walk over there, too. I made Cole come with me!"

"People were pushing, and stomping. It was actually very scary. There was a big steel bar, and people kept pushing Cole into the bar. They even rolled a man in a wheel chair out the way...poor guy! He'd roll himself up. Someone would roll him out of the way!"

Well, apparently Cole was in near-hysteric tears because of the force of the crowd.

"Can you put him on the other side of the gate?" Charlee asked a security guard.

Uhm, no.
"Can you please ask people to stop pushing. He is scared!" She asked a civic center employee, who glanced away and averted her question.

When, suddenly...

Two arms, clad in an expensive black suit, reach over the gate and pull him to safety...just as my sister's camera batteries die.

"Hey there...are you ok?" The soothing political voice we've heard so much over the years asks.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO," bellows Cole.

"Are you scared?"

"YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS," he roars, again.

"Ok," Bill continues (you see, we are on a first name basis now that he saved my nephew). "Everyone step back. This little boy is scared!"

In the midst of this chaos, Charlee hears my mother in the background...

"That's my grandson!"
(Charlee assumed Mom thought Cole was lost, and was trying to rescue him. Pep and I are convinced she was bragging to onlookers, which she later admitted was, indeed, the case.)

A few seconds later, Bill looks at Charlee.

"Is this your little boy?"

"Yes," Charlee smiles.

"Well, why don't we get a picture?"

My sister's reply was no less mortifying than Baby's "I carried a watermelon," or Forest Gump's response upon meeting President Kennedy... "I gotta pee...."

"My batteries are dead."

"You can't miss this opportunity," a good Samaritan exclaims as he hands over his own batteries.

"Here, Steve. Can you take this for us?" Bill asks his guard.

All in all...a good day. Cole recovered from the trauma of his first political rally, and my sister has her picture for next year's Christmas cards.

And, then, to add insult to injury...

I'm missing it, again!

Move Over, Martha...

2008-02-18T11:27:00.005+01:00

There's a new chef in town!

Yep. That's me! Those of you who have been around awhile know I'm not an overly confident cook (see #91).

However, I sense a change in the air.

I don't know how, given my seemingly busy schedule, but I have much more time to cook in Italy. And, little by little, it's paying off.

Continuing my share the love theme from last week, I made our B&B'full of hungry working Napoletani muffins for Valentine's Day.

Oh, but silly me, I never CAN just follow a recipe. (Which my mother claims to be the source of my epicurean difficulties. Ahhh, but I digress...) So, I, uhm, borrowed a Blood Orange Buttercream Glaze from my friend to drizzle on top (and I added nuts)!

My muffin recipe made so much batter, I had enough left over for a whole cake!

Seriously, I don't think Betty and Sara have anything to worry about just yet. But, competition might be on the horizon.

I'm just saying...

Come On Over

2008-02-15T13:17:00.004+01:00

and visit me today at bleedingespresso.com.

I need your help...and, that's all I'm gonna say!

See ya there!

It's Baaaack... (and, I Love It!)

2008-02-14T10:22:00.000+01:00

Yep, folks. Love Thursdays has returned (and don't think the irony of it's timely comeback is lost on me!)

I've heard a great deal lately from people who don't agree with the sentiments of the Valentine's Day message. And, I don't blame them. Yes, I am a hopeless romantic, but for years, even when I had a love interest, I was sans man on Valentine's Day. Not the "Poor, Poor, Pitiful Me" type, but more the "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" type. For years, my roommates and I in Orlando celebrated together. I even once postponed a date, to hang with the girls. Shhhhh.....

It is ok. I think he was gay.

Other years, I didn't have a crush, or a true love, or a sweetcheeks. (Don't you just love those candy heart sayings...ok, ok, I made up the last one...) And, yes, Valentine's Day pioneers tried hard to get me down. Sometimes, they succeed. Sometimes, I shopped, literally, until I dropped. But, the day did direct focus to my (lack-of-a) lovelife, and, in some of my "older" years, (and, I can admit this only now) it was depressing.

But, looking back, with all of my 30something-year-old wisdom, I can see it was silly. Valentine's Day is a day to honor those you love. Not simply your husband, your wife, or your partner. But, a day to celebrate relationships. All of them. A day to be thankful for the love in your life. The love you share with your friends, your parents, your nieces and nephews...your blog buddies...your English teacher.

To help us all remember to show our feelings, as openly and honestly as a child, here is the Valentine's Day card I received from my favorite little English student. Ohhh, you've heard of her. Here. And, here.

A little hard to read? Here are some close-up shots of my favorite areas!

(I love you! Flavia!)

(Pictorial representation of "cherry" and, no...I did not correct her "bey bey")

(T.V.B., abbreviation for ti voglio bene; one could also say T.V.T.B., or ti voglio tanto bene, or rather, I love you very, very much!)

Happy San Valentino Everyone, and Happy Love Thursday!

Adios, Messico!

2008-02-12T11:33:00.000+01:00

Cause I don't need you NO more!

You know how ordinary people, in times of great duress, discover extraordinary inner strength and overcome life's obstacles?

Well, I had obstacles.

And, now...I am extraordinary.

On this, the twelfth day of February, two thousand and eight, I present to you

Ta daaaaa

Cherrye's Totally Inventive and To-Die-For Blood Orange Margarita!

Yes, friends, it is true. When faced with the harsh realities of this bitter life, I did what any other red-blooded southeast Texana would do.

I made a margarita.

And, it was goooood.

Here's the scoop!
- Equal parts Tequilla and Contreau
- Juice from one small blood orange
- A spoonful of sugar (feel free to sing along)
- A spash of cold water (or, if you live in any part of the world that actually produces ICE, this would work, too!)

Then, shake it up, baby, and enjoy!!!

So, tell me. What is your favorite Rita? How do you like her, shaken or frozen? Have any special recipes to share today? Tell me. Tell me. I can't wait to hear!

Warning: You must be of legal age to consume alcoholic beverages. You must not consume afore-mentioned beverage alone. You must invite Cherrye, of My Bella Vita, to all gatherings where afore-mentioned beverage is served. Cherrye, of My Bella Vita is not responsible if you drink too much and embarrass your drunk ass in front of people. This has been a public service announcement brought to you by your good friends at "Drink More Ritas with Cherrye dot Com."

Two Things

2008-02-10T09:00:00.000+01:00

you already know...

1) I hate being cold;
and
2) Italians have some pretty extreme ideas of what constitutes health.

Therefore, the following coversation between my suocero and myself should come as no surprise.

Me: (shiver) "I'm soooo cold!"

Lui: "Do you know why you are cold?"

Me: "Uh, si! Because it is cold outside."

Lui: "No! You are cold because you don't eat!"

After a not-so-convincing attempt at covering my outburst of laughter, he adds...

"No eating causes poor blood...Your blood is poor! THIS is why you are always cold!"

I politely nodded my head, and grabbed a jacket.

Some things will never change!

Buona Domenica!

A Piccolo Confession

2008-02-08T09:44:00.000+01:00

Yes, friends, I have a confession to make. It's not as lovely as some, or as jarring as others, but a confession all the same.

I lied.

I lied to you.

I did not - and can not - give up politics for Lent.

In fact, I didn't even try!

I did, however, manage to get my honey to - for the first time in his Catholic life - give up something. And, boy was that fun!

He pondered, put off, and pondered some more.

"I could give up bread," he proudly exclaimed.

"Would that include pizza? Sandwiches? Snacks??"

"Oh, yea - that would never work!"

"I could give up cheese!"

(insert incredulous look here)

"You're right. I'd die!"

"Then, sweets. It has to be sweets!"

And, so it is.

In an incredible twist of irony, the following morning there were FIVE leftover cornetti from Il Cedro's breakfast rush.

"God has a cruel sense of humor..." was all he could say, as he shared the wealth of chocolaty goodness with the construction workers...twice!

I, on the other hand, am giving something this year, rather than giving something up. Each day, I will do at least one nice thing for someone else. I have also decided, and this is not to reduce inspection by those around me, that, when possible, I will not tell the person I have done something nice for them. This is a self-monitored Lenten sacrifice. No check-ups, please!

So...what about you? We know Louise is hanging in, despite her Nutella-withdrawals...any other takers?

Once Again...

2008-02-06T11:11:00.000+01:00

Carnevale has come and gone, and much too soon, I might add. It was somewhat overshadowed for me this year by other pressing international events.

I mean, why, oh why did Super Tuesday and Fat Tuesday coincide? I meant to vote for Hillary Clinton, but ended up writing in Audrey Tautou. Damn, those hurricanes! Damn them! She's not even American.

To top it all off, I was in a self-induced diabetic stupor from an over-indulgence of homemade chocolatey delights. Ah, yes. Yesterday was International World Nutella Day. And, I celebrated. Well.

I also had the honor of being rescued a few days ago by a high-flying, web-tossing super hero. The American in me was taken aback when Superman showed up on my steps, and I immediately pondered the idea of offering him candy.

Lucky for me, he accepted a glass of water.

And, now, the never-ending, guilt-induced Catholic question of the year.

What will I give up?

What will I give up?
Well, that's easy.

Nutella and Politics...

Were there ever two things more at odds?

Auguri, Friends...

2008-02-04T11:32:00.000+01:00

Or, almost anyhow.

Tomorrow is World Nutella Day!

Woo hoo...

In honor of this annual munch-fest, I tested my nutella-mixing skills and created

Nutella Chocolate-Chunk Mousse

Yum. This dessert is rich and chocolately, and promises not to dissapoint nutella-lovers everywhere.

Health nuts - be sure to check below for the low-fat option!

Here's what you need:

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1/2 cup nutella

- 1/4 tablespoon instant coffee granules

- However much chocolate bar candy you can handle!

- Whipped cream (optional)

In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and instant coffee.

Mix with a spoon until the coffee is dissolved (about 5 minutes).

Add nutella and beat on medium speed for one minute.

Crumble hard chocolate and beat for an additional 30 seconds.

Spoon into individual cups, cover, and refrigerate at least four hours.

If you are so unclined, add whipped cream just before serving. We didn't. Instead, we added extra chocolate and a dash of ground instant coffee!

Delizioso!

Now - for that afore-mentioned low-fat option. After you eat your chocolate-chunk mousse, put on your favorite pair of tennis shoes, go outside, and jog along your route of choice for at least 5 hours~that should do it!

Special thanks to our friends and co-hosts of this year's World Nutella Day, Michelle of Bleeding Espresso and Sara of Ms. Adventures in Italy. On February 6, be sure to visit the World Nutella Day site for more Nutella-inspired recipes.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T...B&B'ing Part III

2008-02-03T10:09:00.000+01:00

Find out what it means to me!
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
(sock it to me...sock it to me...sock it to me...)

Ahhh. Aretha can belt it, can't she?

That's ok, feel free to sing along...
(sock it to me...sock it to me...sock it to me...)
You know you are dancing...
(sock it to me...sock it to me...sock it to me...)

She also makes a convincing argument on the virtues of respect, something we all appreciate in life. Including, us hard working B&Bers. As I've said, we love the guests we've had...99.9% of 'em, anyhow. And, that other 0.1%? Well, all you can do is laugh.

Want in on the fun?

Here are just a few of the things that 0.1% has done to lighten our day.

They don't understand that No Smoking Signs, and all related signage including, but not limited to Non Fumare, Ne pas Fumer, No Fumar, Kein Rauchen, or even, 煙ること apply to everyone.
- Bonus Tip #1 for the 0.1% - Hanging your head outside the window does not qualify as "outside."
- Bonus Tip #2 for the 0.1% - Unless you are in junior high, don't hide in the bathroom. That's sooo not cool.

Hairdryers are placed in the rooms for their convenience, not their mamma's convenience who isn't staying here. Please don't take it home to Mamma. We will notice.

We have a full kitchen available for our guests, complete with a refrigerator, where guests can keep food and beverages, a stove, microwave, dishes, and flatware. Again, most guests are appreciative of this service and are fully respectful of our things. However...

- We have arrived to prepare morning breakfast...ok, yes, it was Pep who arrived, and found dirty dishes, napkins, and cups. He, of course, cleaned their mess prior to serving breakfast to other guests.
- We have arrived to prepare morning breakfast, (again, it was Pep) only to discover that someone finished off the orange juice and severely depleted our supply of apricot jam. Luckily, we had an extra box of juice...warm. Yum.
- We have arrived to prepare morning breakfast (don't you just hate redundancy) to be told that our 400 Euro coffee maker was malfunctioning.

"It isn't malfunctioning," Peppe spit through clinched teeth.

"You just have to know how to operate it. That's why we make the coffee."

Think they caught on to his clue?

They didn't.

We've had "no-show" arrivals checking in after midnight, and had folks leave waaaay past the appropriate check-out time. Although breakfast hours are clearly stated, we've had groups show up at 1:00 PM - wanting breakfast.

Ahhh, but what can you do?

We are new at this. We are learning as we go. Peppe views each new experience as a chance to learn something new about the business.

And, I get blogging material.

We both win.

That's the Way...B&B'ing Part II

2008-02-01T11:43:00.000+01:00

uh hu, uh hu...
I like it
Uh hu, uh hu...

Oh, yes, friends. Contrary to what some people would have you believe, managing a B&B is NOT all about folding towels and ironing sheets, checking emails and baking cakes.

It is not!

Here, try this.

Close your eyes and think about the number one thing you love about your job.

Keep thinking...

Keep thinking...

Oh, you can think of something!!!

(You can open your eyes, now.)

Chances are one of the first things that popped in your mind was "people." The people you work with; the people you work for; the people you meet at work.

Am I right?

Well, let's consider what this is like for someone who runs a bed and breakfast.

Who do I work with?
- My husband

Who do I work for?
- Myself

Who do I meet at work?
- Some of the best folks around!

Over the last few months, we have encountered some wonderful people. We've met fellow Americans who love to travel. We've been invited to see the Tango by a group of theater technicians. We've entertained friends. Twice. We've been invited to visit guests in both Venice and Rome, and as of this morning - Reggio Calabria.

What can I say? The people make this job worthwhile.

Plus, I have the flexibility to leave the country for three months and plan a wedding. My husband took off a month to join me (wasn't that lucky). I have a friend visiting in March and I am not worried about vacation time or sick leave. I'm planning another trip with a friend and I don't have to ask permission to miss work.

The vacation time can't be beat!

And, the money ain't too bad. When we are busy - like we were this month - we can make as much in a week as the average Calabrian makes in a month. Not great by American standards, I know. But, we live in Calabria.

It takes me 30 seconds to get to work.

I can wear what I want.

But, going back to the beginning...back to what really counts. I get to spend every day working with my friend. We have enough going on that we get our space; we get our "me" time. But, we get to see each other throughout the day. We get to have lunch together. We meet for coffee breaks. There are unlimited moments throughout the day when we have "us."

And, that is the way

uh hu, uh hu
I like it
Uh hu Uh hu!

She Works Hard for the Money...B&B'ing Part I

2008-01-30T03:14:00.000+01:00

So hard for the money.
Da...dadaaaa...
So, you better treat her right!!!

This anthem plays in my head every day as I am working so hard for the money at Il Cedro Bed and Breakfast. And, I love it. Everyone needs an anthem, right??

Last summer as we were revving up our own project, Katie told us the ins and outs of B&B'ing in Rome, and I have to say it was nice to get the "heads up."

Now, six months later, we see what Katie meant!

I've had a few emails asking for some Il Cedro updates. So today, in part one of a three-part series on running a bed and breakfast, I present to you (drum roll pleeeeease...)

"She Works Hard for the Money." (You know you want to sing along...)

A B&B owner's job is never done. Really. Our 12-hour days start around 6:30 AM and, although we do stop for lunch (dad's orders) there is always something to do. Peppe and I have devised a little system, however, that works well for us.

I, dear blog readers, am no morning person. I * hate * mornings. Well, not if you consider 9:00 AM the morning, but "6:30 mornings" and I do not get along. So, my sweetie, my love, my knight-in-shining armor does the pre-dawn shift. He wakes up at 6:30 AM and goes to the bakery to buy freshly made cornetti for our guests. He serves them coffee, prepares cappuccini, gives advice or directions, and visits with them throughout the morning.

I join him around 8:00.

Sometimes 8:30.

We complete the breakfast rush and immediately begin cleaning.

I start with the breakfast mess and Pep heads directly to the bedrooms. He opens the windows to change the air, because, you know - they'll die if we don't, and he begins making beds.

For the next couple of hours we clean rooms, bathrooms, and common areas. We replace linens. We sweep. Someone opens the door and the infamous Catanzaresi wind blows through. We sweep again. Ditto. Ditto. We straighten the garden area and clean outside.

Then, the washing begins.

We wash bath towels, hand towels, bidet towels, kitchen towels...and sheets. Sometimes we even throw in a tablecloth! Those of you familiar with Italian dyers know the precision to which they work. For those of you don't, an average-size load of towels takes 180 minutes to fully dry!

One hundred and eighty...

So, our towels, sheets, and whatnots are often put on the line to dry at leisure.

We collect them when they are dry, fold the towels, and iron the sheets and pillowcases.

Yes, yes...I realize ironing the sheets sounds a little, oh what would you say, finicky? But, they look sooo much nicer on the beds, and everyone knows - first impressions are everything!

We go back through the rooms to close windows, replace rugs, refill candy bowls, and lock the doors.

Throughout all of this we are making reservations, replying to emails, and assisting tourists with travel information. We are also handling phone calls...or, well, Pep is. On some days, we go to the store to replenish our breakfast or cleaning supplies.

One of us usually stays in the B&B until around 7:00 PM.

After that we head home (upstairs) and bake a ciambella for the next morning's breakfast.

We haven't had a day off for more than two weeks.

The last three nights we have fallen asleep by 8:30!

That is embarrassing.

Embarrassing, but true.

B&B'ing is hard work, but, it's not all bad.

Stay tuned for B&B'ing Part II to discover the other side, and see why we do it.

So Long, Joe

2008-01-28T13:01:00.000+01:00

In keeping with one of my quarter-year resolutions, I have adopted a few new healthy habits. In fact, I have a "100 Tips for a Better Body Book" and I'm slooooowly adding a few of the suggestions into my daily routine. (Let's not discuss the fact that I've had this book at least two years and am about half-way through!)

One of the first tips recommends substituting your morning coffee with a cup of hot water mixed with juice from half a lemon. (Sounds terrible, doesn't it??) Since I live in the middle of a lemon garden I thought I'd give it a try. I've done this for almost one week now, and ya know...whatever. I feel no better-no worse-no less tired-no less awake, and it doesn't taste as disastrous as it sounds!

But, and I am admitting this only to you, my friends, I cheated. I did. Instead of substituting the hot lemon water for my morning coffee, I added the lemon water to my morning beverage buffet.

Oh, come on! What would you do?

Hot Lemon Water

Espresso Italiano

Cappuccino from Il Cedro

I never claimed to have will power!

However, on the positive side, there is now evidence proving your morning joe is good for you! Don't believe me? Read about it here, or here, or even here!

So, what about you? Are you a one-cup-a-day drinker, a day-long sipper, or a hot lemon water kind of morning person?

Let's compare notes!

On Days Like These...

2008-01-26T12:36:00.000+01:00

these bitter cold, sub-60 degree days, I wish I was anywhere else.

Well, not actually anywhere.

I wouldn't want to be in Paris where it is 43 frosty degrees today. Or, in Vancouver where they are chilling out to a whopping 31. And, I sure as hell don't wanna be in Detroit - where they registered a bone-freezing 19 degrees!

I was thinking somewhere along these lines.

Majestic Miami

Serene San Pedro

Or, (in just a few more months) Carina Catanzaro Lido

Want to join me?

Do It Already!

2008-01-23T11:56:00.000+01:00

Ahhh...la vita italiana.

Laid back.

Stress free.

Full of nothing but wholesome pasta and strong vino.

Right?

Yea. Right.

Don't get me wrong. We have some good pasta down here in the south - and our wine ain't too shabby, either, but sometimes you just wanna get going! You want to buy personal products in the middle of the day. You want to have more than one restaurant option for your lunchtime meal. You want to finish building your new house before your kids inherit it.

That's where I am today.

Thirty months ago - yes, 3-0, Peppe began meeting with an architect to design a new house. A good two years later, we had a final design, and more importantly you know, permission to build. Last summer, in an unprecedented move, contractors agreed to work in the month of August, and we broke ground.

Peppe spent the last month comparing bids for the next lavori, and had just about made a decision. Contractor #1, who will remain nameless due to the unfavorables mentioned below, has worked with us on several occasions. He completed most of the work on Il Cedro, and does a pretty good job on most projects. My problem with this guy, aside from his overall nasty demeanor and unpleasant personality, is that he is...well, less than honest in most instances. He helps himself to leftover material, paint, and other supplies that were purchased by the customer, and more than once large items - such as a hot water heater - walked away. When questioned about this, he replied..."I didn't know you'd need it."

Mah!

Why would Peppe even considering hiring a contractor like this? Well, because, in his own words, "At least we know he is dishonest...someone else might be just as bad. And, we wouldn't know it!"

How is that for Italian logic?

Well, luckily for us Contractor #2 came along, agreed to the same price as "The Bad Guy" and could start three months earlier...aka - today!

This is what we have so far...

Accenti Italiani

2008-01-21T13:33:00.000+01:00

I just *love* Italians...

You know I do.

One, on most occasions, more than the rest.

But, one thing I do not discriminate on is my love of their cute little accents...in inglese, of course.

My personal favorite?

"Cherrye"

It is no surprise Italians encounter difficulties with my name - Americans have had problems my entire life. In the states, I get "Sherry" or, sometimes "Cheryl" and, sometimes...just sometimes..."Carrie." "Her name can't be CHERRY," they must be thinking, so they add and subtract letters at will.

But, here in Italy it is a whole 'nurther story.

My name, especially in the mouth of my favorite Italian photographer's son, is prezioso!

It sounds like - stay with me here, now - Chaw'ewey.

Yes, like a mix between a chihuahua and a berry.

Couldn't you just eat that up?

It is also amusing when I am corrected on English-language words they have adapted to make their own.

Like...shopping,

or, computer,

or...and, this is a good one, you guys - Hillary Clinton!

On more than one occasion, I have tried to make myself understood by altering my own accent when speaking English. "I need a spray for my sore throat," becomes "Ho bisogno una spray per il mal di gola.

Well, "spray," in my accento Southeast Texas, comes out "spraaay."

It don't cut it!

So, I continue my struggle to learn, not only Italian and Calabrese, but to re-learn words I have uttered the last 30 years...

And, I have to admit, "shopping" is one word I'm not planning to lose.

Nineteen Days into

2008-01-19T10:56:00.000+01:00

the New Year and I am still dreaming up resolutions.

Not off to a good start, am I? I am convinced if I could only get "caught up" with my life, I could stay on top of things. Yea, right! Can't fool you guys, can I?

New Year's Resolutions...

What are they good for anyway? Aside from showcasing the fact you can't set a goal and stick to it, they also directly point out a person's self-perceived flaws.

- Lose weight
- Exercise more
- Spend more time with family

Ouch!

The last couple of years I have opted against setting New Year's Resolutions, and have instead set QYRs, or Quarter-Year Resolutions.

Intrigued?

You see, to me, the very idea of having twelve looooong months to accomplish a goal, appeals to the procrastinator inside. We like that concept. But, come November or December (if I even remember what resolutions were set that previous January) things remain undone. Accomplishments, un-accomplished!

So, I set a list of goals I would like to reach for a given year, then work that list into four smaller, more manageable groups that build upon each other.

I'm working around a QYR list for 2008 that looks something like this.

January-March
- I will work out at least three times a week.
- I will evaluate what I did last year, what went well, what needs improvement, and set further QYRs accordingly.
- I will work towards becoming a more dedicated freelance writer, and better equip myself for success.

April-June
- I will wrap up all minor projects I have "open" from 2007 and Quarter 1.
- I will get back on the children's book I wrote and edit, edit, edit...rewrite, rewrite, rewrite.
- I will continue to help dear old dad work on his manuscript.
- I will focus on healthy food options, and try to eat veggies a little more often.

July-September
- I will re-evaluate the first two quarters of 2008.
- I will explore publishing options for children's book and dad's novel.
- I will continue with the healthy lifestyle resolutions that have, hopefully by this point, become habits.

October-December
- I will continue with the evaluation and revision of goals, as needed.
- I will continue exploring those publishing options (cause ya'll know nothing happens THAT quickly in the publishing world.)

So, what do you think?

Mind you, I have NEVER made it into the summer months with my quarter-year resolutions, but I have made it past February...and, that is saying something.

Right?

So, can you guess what my high priority resolution is this year - the resolution that goes above all others, and sits at numero uno on the list?

Come on, make a guess!

Come on...

That's right!

My number one resolution for 2008 is to

Make it to June with my QYRs...

Think I can do it?

I Now Present to You

2008-01-16T10:10:00.000+01:00

the new Mr. and Mrs...

Isn't that fun to say?? I mean, uh, write??

It is!

It is!

And, on this, our two month anniversary, it only seems fitting.

Well, as you know good-ole-dad was able to attend the wedding, and other than a few centerpiece mishaps, a Maid of Honor shoe issue, and Peppe totally hating the tie I selected, everything was perfect! And, even those things worked out.

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the day.

My beautiful cousin, and one of our five bridesmaids, Angelique, helping not-soooo-much-anymore Baby Cole get dressed before the wedding. My sister is just behind them chochi'ing her hair.

Giuseppe, Peppe's cousin and our best man, going over my Italian vows with me one last time. Onorarti... I got it, I got it...only, I didn't!

My childhood friend and Texas hair stylist, Gena, helping adjust my veil just before we run off to the limo. I don't look nervous at all, do I?

The boys, just as I am about to walk, sola...down the aisle. Peppe and Giuseppe wait, along with Cole, our friend Jason, my cousin Scott, and another friend, Adrian. Aren't they bellissimi?

Peppe, no doubt fearful of his mafiosa wife, saying a prayer - or else, taking a nap - during the ceremony.

Did I mention our priest resigned one month before the wedding?!? Luckily, Father Stephen McCrate, who studied seminary in Rome, stepped in, saved the day, and performed our ceremony in both English and Italian. Here, he has just told Peppe he can give his new wife, un bacio di Chiesa. See how intent Cole is on ensuring we follow Father Stephen's instructions?

Father Stephen wasn't so specific this time...

Realizing it is a little hard to see in this picture, Peppe proudly models both his new wife, and the new tie he picked up a only hours before the ceremony.

Just after the cake cutting, my 96-year-young bisnonno asked the bride for a dance. He made it through all of The Archies, Sugar, Sugar and half-way through the next song before shaking his groove thing off the dance floor.

And, what fun that was! We laughed and danced all night, as many of the guests enjoyed healthy servings of assorted beer and wine, and hand-poured peach bellinis. After much discussion, Peppe and I decided the following components were, in our opinions, the evening "highlights".

- We asked our cake designer to create individual-sized wedding cakes for each adult guest. Each individual cake mirrored a layer in the cake we cut and served to the children. The individual cakes were vanilla, but ummm, who says vanilla is boring and the larger cake had layers of Tiramisu, deep chocolate, and Italian Cream. We had cake coming out of our ears!

- As a surprise, but not secret, gift my parents rented an old-fashioned photo booth. It was a big hit with guests young and old - not to mention hotel staff members who just couldn't stay out. After the event, the photo booth owners sent us a CD of all the pictures they took that night.

- Our friends. I mean, we knew they were good...but we had no idea. Friends flew in, not only from Italy, but from across America, as our hometown friends opened their homes, volunteered to be city tour guides, storage space centers, and chefs. They devised a make-shift floral center when we needed help, dropped what they were doing to finalize decorations, ran errands, made coffee, brought lunch. Man, they were good!

They are good.

And, Peppe and I are two very lucky people to have them in our lives.

Ahhh, yes...

Very lucky indeed!

Some People Say

2008-01-14T14:52:00.000+01:00

no matter where you go, your troubles find you.

I believe it.

From mid-September through the end of 2007, I had limited Internet access. Ya'll know that! That is why I had over 630 Inbox messages to scour through, no new MBV posts, and no promising freelance writing gigs to dig up.

Only one week after returning to Italy, I was thrust back into those cold, dark days and experiencing Internet-withdrawal all over again. Who knew switching from Libero to Al-ee-chay would take 7-10 days??

Who knew?

Who SHOULD have known?? :-)

Well, that is where I was last week...where were you?

"All Because Two People

2008-01-08T16:16:00.000+01:00

fell in love..."

This is one of the newest "wedding expressions" out on the market, and, while I must admit it does remind me somewhat of a sappy old Brad Paisley cawntrey song...it is nice to hear, especially when planning one's wedding.

I also liked

"And, They Lived Happily Ever After!"

But, ultimately fell for

"Fall in Love..."

Get it?

A "Fall" Wedding??

"FALL in love"?!?

Anyway.

Luckily for me, all of those decisions can be left for some new bride, planning her, I mean, uh, "their" day, because, my friends...our day has come and gone.

Was it all I hoped it would be?

Absolutely!

Did everything go off without a hitch?

Absolutely not!

But, it is a wedding, and my personal opinion, based on time spent in the industry, my anal-retentive tendencies, and a few thorough heart-to-hearts with other brides is this: Couples who say their weddings went off without a hitch, just don't know any better!

And, more power to 'em, I say!

Planning a wedding is HARD WORK. Planning a wedding on a set budget - even harder. Planning a wedding - on a set budget - 6,000 miles away...well, you get the picture.

Our drama, unfortunately, was not limited to lost invitations. Twelve days before "The Big Day" my mother and I returned home from an evening of mother-of-the-bride shoe shopping, and grandmother-of-the-bride dress hunting to find my father, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease several years ago, sprawled on the floor, covered with blood.

Luckily he was conscious, and once he was up and clean, he felt better and insisted a trip to the hospital was unnecessary.

He awoke the following morning tired and sore.

That afternoon, he took a cat nap in his oversized, off-white leather chair. Then, he wouldn't wake up.

My mother and I tried repeatedly to awaken him, but he wouldn't regain awareness. After a brief consultation with area first responders, he was life flighted the 30 miles to the nearest hospital. He stopped breathing once, and then awoke to, what he called, "one hell of a helicopter ride."

He spent the next two days in the Intensive Care Unit before being transferred to a hospital room. After one week, he was admitted into a physical therapy rehabilitation hospital where he stayed for 25 days.

For those of you who haven't done the math - that directly coincided with wedding events.

The doctors, nurses, and other staff members of both hospitals were amazingly gracious and assured my father from the onset that he would not miss this wedding. While, unfortunately, he was not able to make the trip down the aisle, he did make the trip across town for the pre-wedding rehearsal and BBQ, the ceremony, and the wedding reception.

And, THAT, my friends, was perfect!

So Much Has Happened

2008-01-04T11:29:00.000+01:00

since I left Italy more than three months ago, that I am having a hard time narrowing down an appropriate point of interest on which to write.

Not so much due to inactivity on my part, but more so, perhaps from the lack of daily writing...which most writers know, increases skill and focuses a writer's brain on important, relevant facts.

For example, I hardly think, dear blog readers, you would be interested to know that during my Southeast Texas sabbatical, I became somewhat of addict. Drug of choice?? Dancing with the Stars...followed with a CSI:Miami chaser. Embarrassing, I know...but I was told admitting your problem was the first step to recover... We will see.

Or, I wonder, will you be interested to discover that the very day I arrived in Beaumont, my cousin's nine-month old daughter went into the hospital? After spending most of the fall season in and out of various hospitals throughout our region, and after tossing around such scary words as Childhood Leukaemia and Autoimmune Deficiency, we were relieved to have a final diagnosis of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Relieved, you might think?!? Trust me, it is ALL relative.

Undeniably one of the most memorable occurrences, and in fact, the reason I made the trip home, was to finalize preparations and become Mrs. Giuseppe Mannella. Thinking back on that day brings a smile to my face, as I pray it always will, but the string of events that occurred in the twelve days preceding this joyous occasion, will no doubt be as seared in my mind as the wedding itself.

But, that is a long story...and, so it will be told in the next post.

Until then, my friends...

Quando la Vita e Pazza

2008-01-02T08:14:00.000+01:00

that is when you need an outlet! And, let me tell you, folks, chatting with you on My Bella Vita is the outlet I have missed the most. The last few months have been a whirlwind, and like most of you I am still trying to recover from the holiday season rush. I returned to Italy just in time for my sweetie's birthday on the 30th (he won't let me share the number here with you), a little New Year's Eve festa with some friends, and a packed house at Il Cedro!

I also returned to 636 inbox messages. Yes! 6-3-6! Insane! For all of you who emailed me or posted messages on the blog...GRAZIE...and, I will write you back soon! With an inbox of 600+ messages, you can see I haven't neglected My Bella Vita purposefully, but rather my absence was due to my little hole in the woods in Southeast Texas where high speed internet is either 1) inaccessible, or 2) so expensive so as to remain...inaccessible!

I look forward to peeking in on your blog sites and catching up with your latest news. I have thought of you all often, and I hope to see you back here 'real soon.'

Some Things Just Don't Mix

2007-10-08T09:38:00.000+02:00

And, wedding invitations and the Italian Post are two of them.

I know, I know...it isn't Wedding Wednesdays, so what are we doing talking about WEDDINGS??? (And, I am counting on you to forgive my Wedding Wednesday lapse last week...)

Well, this is a tad different. This is personal. This is about MY wedding! (Hear the loud Bridezilla voice booming in the background?!?)

Seriously, though. Us Italian expats, and those who love us and send us mail, know how notorious the Italian mail system is for receiving packages. If you are a gambling gal, or dude, this mail system is for you. The odds are maybe...50-50?? I'm not quite sure.

Well, let's back up to about 11 months ago when I first started looking at wedding invitations. All budget-minded brides know you have to make tough decisions and chose priorities carefully. Invitations were not high on my list.

I searched until I found a cute, fall-themed invitation that offered enough space for both Italian and English wording, at a good price, no less. Since I had more time on my hands (or so I thought) in Italy than I would in America eight weeks before the wedding, I planned to have the invitations sent to Italy so they could be ribbonized, addressed, and ready to go.

I won't bore you, dear blog readers with the gory details (because believe me, they are boring - and gory - even to me) but more or less...

- The company won't ship overseas

- They can't tell me how heavy the package is (so I can have someone else send it)

- They don't respond well to emails

- They are pretty much LACKING any customer service-related skill set

So, I decide to look in Italy. No luck. While many of the invitations here were cute, they didn't offer much space for two languages. I even had help.

In what I thought was a last-ditch effort I went to a local print shop and asked them to duplicate the invite I had found in America. They did pretty well, too. But, they don't have double envelopes in Italy, and the only ones this guy found were about 2 sizes larger than the invitation itself. Ouch.

So, back to the American company (who I am specifically not naming here since they had such poor service). But, I had to place the order twice - cause, what do ya know - they didn't receive it the first time.

- They "hold" my order for about 2 weeks because they can't call Italy (never thinking to send me an email and let me know)

- They add on additional charges and no one seems to know why

- They sent the wrong ribbon color

But, they finally arrive at my mother's house, where she pulls 50 or so out for us to give the Italian crew. She puts them in nice little envelope and mails them to Catanzaro.

That was seven weeks ago.

We never received them. The Italian Post Office passed the buck on to SDA, who can't be reached via email or phone. At least not easily. So, here we are five weeks before the wedding with no invitations to give the Italians, who won't come anyway, but that is SO not the point.

So, my "I don't really care too much about the invitations" priority has jumped from the bottom tier and sky-rocketed, if only momentarily, to a top notch problem.

Aren't weddings fun?

Missing You

2007-10-02T18:13:00.000+02:00

Hi there. Just wanted to say I miss talking to ya'll....

Will post soon.

Something Else? - WW Part 5

2007-09-26T14:38:00.000+02:00

"Casa senza fimmina ‘mpuvirisci" (Sicillian proverb)

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue...As if brides don't have enough "somethings" to search for prior to the Big Day, tradition dictates another four be found.

By far one of the most adhered-to traditions of brides throughout, this catchy little rhyme provides a connection between the past and the future while maintaining it's stronghold on timeless traditions. Each of the four items (old, new, borrowed, blue) symbolizes an aspect of the bride's life.

The item the bride chooses for her "something old" traditionally relates to her heritage. Many brides choose a treasured family heirloom or piece of jewelry. Nearly anything can serve the "something new" role, and many brides designate their dress or a new piece of bridal jewelry to fulfill this symbol.

"Something borrowed" symbolizes the support her family will give her as she begins married life. Borrowed items can include a pair of gloves or a piece of jewelry, usually from an older member of her family who is happily married. The hands-down favorite "something blue" choice has always been a blue garter or a blue ribbon hidden beneath the bride's dress.

But, let's just say for a moment we want to spice things up. How could we do that in a modern wedding, and still include this much-loved tradition?

Something Old ideas can include lace from a mother or grandmother's wedding gown, a re-invented headpiece or veil, or the groom. :-)

Something New ideas are always the most simple to find, but are more difficult to inject with creativity. Brides could purchase a small gold cross, or other meaningful symbol and include it in her bridal bouquet, attach it to her dress, or wear it in a garter.

Something Borrowed items can include satin ribbon borrowed from an aunt or family member and wrapped around the bouquet, a grandmother's wedding band, or even a sister's favorite lipstick.

Something Blue ideas are by far the most fun and offer the bride of today the best opportunities to express herself. A bride could wear blue shoes instead of white satin, include a few blue-hued flowers in her bouquet, or wear a pale blue polish on her toes.

Regardless of the four "somethings" a bride chooses to incorporate into her Big Day, she should not take this tradition too seriously. It is meant to be fun, and can inject humor or add a bit of unexpected flare to a formal, and possibly already too-stressful, wedding day.

"A house without a woman is poor."

Trendsetters - WW Part 4

2007-09-19T12:30:00.000+02:00

"Meglio il marito senz'amore, che con gelosia."

Taking a cue from celebrity brides, or perhaps just to be a tad different, couples are choosing creative alternatives to timeless wedding traditions.

The Top 5 Trends for 2007-2008 Weddings

5. "I'll Scratch Your Eyes Out." As couples are choosing to tie the knot a little later in life, some of the age-old traditions are falling to the way-side. One of the latest casualties? The bouquet and garter toss. Why this new trend?

- Couples marrying in their 30s have friends in their 30s and don't want to put their single friends on display for the wedding clan to view. Broadcasting singledome in someones 20s is cute. 30s and 40s...not so much.

- Brides don't want their wedding day feast turning into a cat fight. Think about it...how many weddings have you been to when the single women didn't create a tug-o-war over those dang roses. They are going to die anyway, gals!

- An 8 year-old with the bouquet and a 40 year old with the garter is nasty! Vice versa is just plain weird! Brides are finding it difficult to prevent the kiddos from joining in on this "single-folk" fun, and many single adults don't want to participate and steal the flowers from Betty Jo's 6 year-old niece.

4. "Omelet anyone?" Dancing the night away - quite literally - has taken on in many places. Affluent couples are not just offering their guests dinner and dancing, but are ending their wedding party with a sun kissed breakfast. Now, that's a party!

3. "Paper Dolls No More." Gone are the days of tragic taffeta and poofy-sleeved bridesmaids. In fact, gone are the paper dolls, lined up in matching dresses and stockings, matching manicures and hair bows. It's over, really. Trendy brides are selecting a few colors and a formality style and letting their bridesmaids make a selection based on personal preferences and body types.

2. "Child's Play" Many brides want children at their wedding celebrations, but are afraid of failing attention spans or behavior straight from the "wild, wild west." The solution? Include them. Here are a few ways a modern bride can include children in her wedding-day festivities.

- Ask for "kiddie meals." Instead of ordering, and paying for, the same meal you serve adults, think about what the kids will eat. Maybe a pizza station or chicken strips with mac and cheese will go over better with this crowd.

- Group them together. Have a "kids-only" section at your reception where they can play, draw or color, or eat snacks from their own personal goodie bags. Consider hiring age-appropriate entertainment specifically for the kids, such as a clown, balloon sculptor, or caricature artist.

- Hire a sitter. Reserve another room near the main reception area for the kids. Hire a sitter and set up a TV with DVDs or play station, have a radio so they can dance or sing, and have games or toys. Their parents will appreciate the effort and will enjoy the reception knowing their kids are being watched and protected.

1. "Here Comes the Bride, All Dressed in White." Or, Maybe Not. Stark white wedding dresses are falling out of fashion, particularly with fair-skin brides. Splashes of color can be seen in intricate beading, embroidery, or ribbons. If that is too subdue, there are dresses with large sections of brighter colors, such as red, green, or black. Full dresses are now available that range in colors from light gold to dark burgundy. Your imagination is the only boundary these days, and no color is off-limits.

Whatever new trends or changes a couple chooses for their wedding day, it is important for them to stay true to themselves. If the groom hates to wear a tux - don't wear a tux! If the bride loves red shoes, by all means, wear those shoes. Remember, the wedding fashion police aren't going to knock on your door, and if they, put up that "honeymooning" sign. You have other things to think about!

"Better to have a husband without love than with jealousy."

San Antonio, Baby - Triple T Week 3

2007-09-18T13:11:00.000+02:00

In honor of my home state, I present to you...

Five Things To Do in San Antonio

Standing proudly as the icon of Texas independence, and nestled on the banks of an ancient river, San Antonio is home to the nation’s oldest surviving cathedral. Now the eight largest city in America, San Antonio maintains an unpretentious air while welcoming visitors with open arms.

1. Remember the Alamo. These famous words were bellowed more than 200 miles from San Antonio and served as the motivating factor in securing Texas independence. The Alamo now stands, much smaller than most people envision, as a memorial to the heroes who died fighting against the much bigger, and stronger Mexican army.

2. Find romance on the River Walk. The Paseo del Rio is a romantic dining and entertainment area in downtown San Antonio. The picturesque cobbled streets line the San Antonio River and offer guests the choice of relaxing in a quiet, secluded area, or enjoying the noisy gathering of mariachi bands, restaurants, and bars.

3. Visit Hemisfair Park. Formally the site of the 1968 World’s Fair, Hemisfair Park is home to the impressive Tower of the Americas. Rising more than 150 feet into the air, the Tower of the Americas offers visitors a birds-eye view of San Antonio from either the observation deck or the revolving restaurant.

4. Experience SeaWorld San Antonio. Live shows, theme park rides, and water park excitement make SeaWorld San Antonio a meaningful trip. Include dolphin feeding, interacting with endangered-species birds, and a face-to-face encounter with live sharks, and it becomes a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

5. Eat lunch like a cowboy at the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum. A visit to the exhibit hall will introduce guests to “Old Tex,” a longhorn with a horn span of over eight feet. View the extensive collection of Lone Star beer memorabilia while kicking back at the 100+ year old bar.

So, It's That Time Again

2007-09-17T08:33:00.000+02:00

Time to pack up those cherry-red suitcases and head back over the big, blue pond. Another trip home. A trip, that after eight long months I should be ready to take, leaves me feeling the flutter of butterflies dancing about. Why is that?

Is it because I wish I had one more week to tie up those loose ends here in Italy?

Is it because I know that, once in Texas, I will hit the ground running with wedding preparations?

Or, is it because after spending more consecutive time together than ever before in our seven year relationship - I don't want to miss Pep?

Oh, yes. This will pass. I will wake up before the crack of dawn on Wednesday, hop on those three Lufthansa / United Flights, watch a few movies, start a new book, eat some stale airline "food" and be back in Texas before my Paw-Paw can say, "Howdy, ya'll."

Well technically, he will have time to say "Howdy, ya'll," I mean - it is close to 19 hours from start to finish...But, this will pass and I know that.

I just hate the wait.

The Other'Cane

2007-09-15T09:58:00.000+02:00

We all remember the graphic scenes that unfolded before our eyes as New Orleans, and other areas of the Gulf Coast, suffered through Hurricane Katrina. Katrina was a massive storm, and in her fierce fury claimed hundreds of lives, and left thousands destroyed.

Residents of New Orleans fled Louisiana in search of shelter, and found themselves welcomed into the open, albeit hot and humid, arms of Southeast Texas. A mere three weeks later, their lives were uprooted once again, when Hurricane Rita pounded the Southeast Texas region. Most Southeast Texas residents heeded the warning from their neighbor state and evacuated, only to find themselves scurrying farther inland and still unable to escape Rita's wrath.

That's what my family did.

We evacuated to Northwest Louisiana, some 150 miles inland, only to find ourselves without electricity for a week, and surrounded by volunteer rescue workers. The storm we thought would surely pass, did in fact, hit us - straight on.

But, why bring this up now? Why talk about this almost two years after the fact?

Well, because little ole Hurricane Humberto blew through Texas earlier this week and took everyone by surprise. This isn't proper Hurricane protocol. Hurricanes are supposed to sit and stew out in the ocean, inciting fear or tension into everyone along the coastlines, until it decides where it wants to go, how large it wants to become, and how fast it wants to spin.

Humberto! You didn't play by the rules. You sneaked up on us, and one of my paesano is dead! And, that makes me sad.

Although this "little" hurricane didn't cause the drama and devastation of its predecessors, and in fact, life is already back to normal in many areas of Southeast Texas, my heart goes out to those who lost their homes, their property, and the family members of the lone casualty of this unjust storm.

Shabby Chic - WW Part 3

2007-09-12T13:52:00.000+02:00

"La buona moglie fa il buon marito"

Last week we tore into the Italians with busta talk and soldi expectations. It's just not fair! So, to even the playing field un poco, let's talk about Americans! Celebrities have been doing it for years, yet many people think it is a tacky, and tasteless, way to hold a wedding...

Who knows what a sponsored wedding is?

Anyone??

Star Jones made headlines in 2004 when she and future hubby, Al Reynolds, advertised for the companies who donated their wedding items. While she was possibly the most flamboyant in her attempts to snag these wedding freebies, she was not the only celeb who has done it.

Now, many "common folk" are jumping on board and asking for donations for catering, wedding cakes, flowers, even reception halls. That's right. These couples pay zilch, zero, naaaada!

The catch?

In return for the goodies, the couples promise to advertise these companies in their wedding programs, their invitations, on matchbooks, with signage at the wedding, and on their wedding website...pretty much anywhere a sign or list can be placed, these companies get pitched.

No more signs with hearts emblazoned with "Anne and Michael" (Notice I didn't say Cherrye and Peppe...) But instead, "This cake is courtesy of ABC Bakery and Company."

Or, something equally as chilling...

With the average cost of a wedding rising (probably even as I write this post) and knocking on the $30,000 door, I understand why this idea might be attractive. But...well, I won't give you my (full) opinion just yet. What do you think about it?

Sponsored weddings...chic or shabby?

"A good wife makes a good husband."

It Pays to Check Back - Triple T Week 2

2007-09-11T11:49:00.000+02:00

Have you ever bought an airline ticket at what you thought was a decent rate, only to hear the price later dropped? Probably not, huh? You know why? Because most people, once they purchase their tickets, NEVER check back!

Did you know if the ticket price drops after your purchase you have options? You can call the airline and politely (but firmly) discuss the situation. Most of the time they will refund you the difference or issue you vouchers for future flights.

It gets better! There is now a website that will check your flight price FOR you, and email you if it changes. Yapta can track flights either before or after your purchase so you can always get the best price - or a refund - on your flights. They also have a nifty tool you can download to track your favorite routes before you buy!

Happy Traveling!

Nightmare WHERE?!?

2007-09-07T11:14:00.000+02:00

Prepare yourself, folks!

Your dreams will be haunted when the great puppeteer of darkness manifests...

Oh, wait!

Wrong movie.

But - right guy!

Freddi Krueger, or, Robert Englund, if you prefer is directing a movie in our very own region of Calabria starring...ah (are you ready for this) Raoul Bova!!!

If I wasn't already scared of Reggio Calabria because of the overwhelming Mafia presence and the recently added Caribinieri brigades, now they are adding Freddy Krueger!

Mamma Mia! I'll never see that place.

Ah, but it could be my big break.

What do you think?

"Gimme that Soldi!" WW Part 2

2007-09-05T11:00:00.000+02:00

"Chi ha moglie ha doglie"

We were last discussing what common denominator ties weddings together world-wide. If not flowers, cakes, veils, or favors...what could it be?

That only leaves one thing!

Well, technically that leaves a lot of things...but today we are talking about il regalo di nozze, otherwise known as, the wedding present. This can mean different things to different people and is the source of confusion, anticipation, and concern for many a gift-giver

How much money should I spend?

Should I purchase from the gift registry?

Will the couple like my gift?

Speaking from experience with American gift-giving, any couple worth a present, will like and appreciate your present...although that doesn't necessarily ease the stress of gift buying. Unfortunately, there is no sure-fire formula to help you determine gift value. However, while researching for this post, I found an interesting discussion about the same topic. Enjoy!

In Italy, particularly in the south, WHAT to give isn't nearly as important as HOW MUCH to give. That's right! It's all about the busta, or soldi, or, in other words - the cold hard cash! A wedding guest is expected to present the sposi with an envelope containing those cute, brightly-colored, odd-sized Euros. Bunches of 'em.

In this case there is a formula.

You should consider how much the couple spent on your meal and compensate accordingly, not forgetting to add in a little extra to help them get started. If you are very close to the couple, or if you are in the wedding, you should add even more.

My American-self has problems accepting this, not out of a dislike for tradition, but rather out of the sheer distaste of the expectation. In fact, I have heard some to-be-wed couples express concern that their guests wouldn't present them with an adequate busta to cover their expenses.

Are you kiddin' me?!?

I will step on my soap box only long enough to say...YOUR GUESTS SHOULDN'T BE EXPECTED TO PAY FOR YOUR WEDDING! Or, maybe...IF YOU CAN'T AFFORD A BIG WEDDING - DON'T HAVE A BIG WEDDING!! Or, even...SHOW SOME APPRECIATION, PEOPLE!!

But, that is just me.

And, I am off the box now.

Speaking of lovely wedding presents, I received my FIRST regalo a few weeks ago from one of my English students...

A beautiful, hand-carved, wooden elephant with the trunk up (indicating good fortune) was waiting for me after class. Che bello. And, in other wedding present news...a real life Wedding Crasher takes off with $1,500 CASH!! Ouch!

What are your favorite ideas or suggestions on wedding presents? What do you think about the Italian wedding busta and / or the expectation to give one?

"Who has a wife has strife."

BTW - Please let it be known that I think this Italian wedding proverb is cazzate, but...Pep thought it was "funny." Boh!

Fly Like a Travel Agent - Triple T Week 1

2007-09-04T10:26:00.000+02:00

For budget-savvy voyagers everywhere, I present to you, Travel Tip Tuesday.

Each Tuesday, I will post a new travel tip, money-saving idea, or highlight a specific destination. Please join in. If you know of a great dollar-squeezing strategy, please share it either in the comments or through your blog. (Be sure and let us know over here, too!)

So, without further ado, I present to you

Fly Like a Travel Agent - Triple T Week 1

Has anyone ever heard of a fabulous little company called InteleTravel?

They once only provided deals and specials to travel agents, but have now expanded their services to offer discounts to all customers. So now budget-minded world travelers, like you and me, can receive all of the discounts and benefits of a travel agent.

Here's a little secret. InteleTravel does not advertise, and is still largely unknown to the general public. Through their program a passenger can book his own flights at steeply discounted costs, as well as find amazing vacation deals for himself and his friends and family.

Once you register, you will have access to
- $100 off domestic flights
- Up to 80% off published rates
- Up to 80% commission for booking online
- Free upgrades on car and hotel rentals
- Insider deals on vacation packages and cruises
- Tax advantages

Sound too good to be true? Well...there is a small catch. (Come on you guys - nothing in life is free!!)

InteleTravel has a one-time fee of $199.00 plus a $9.95 monthly access fee, plus a one-time fee of $7.95 (for your referral travel agent card). So, is it worth it?

I don't know...

I only learned of InteleTravel recently and have not made the decision to join the program. I am, however, seriously considering it. You can search past deals to see if there is anything you like, but you can't search current specials or check flight prices until you join. They have a 3 day money-back guarantee (generous, no) so if you don't see anything you like, you could cancel your membership.

Bottom line. With prices from "this" home to "that" home consistently hitting the $1,000 mark, what have I got to lose? Well, besides $199 + $9.95 a month + $7.95??

Ah, the Language Barrier

2007-09-02T09:14:00.000+02:00

It is either a blessing or a hindrance, right? I must admit that while I am eager to perfect the Italian language, and Pep is pretty darn smarto in inglese, the language barrier is one more obstacle we fight to overcome.

Sometimes, it works in your favor.

"So-in-so is soooo stupid!"

What, you are mad I said that?

"Well, stupid isn't really that strong a word in English, darling...."

Oops!

This doesn't work so well with music. Case in point..."Candy Man" by non other than the lovely miss Christina Aguilera.

Have any of you ever listened to these words??

Well, I have.

You can imagine my surprise when my 9-year-old studentessa pops in a CD and announces that her dance teacher taught them a dance to this song. She makes her performance - loudly bellowing the lyrics as her mom smiles and tells me proudly, "She is so smart in English. She knows all of the words!"

He's a one stop shop, makes the panties drop
He's a sweet-talkin', sugar coated candy man

da da da da

He's a one stop shop, makes my cherry pop
He's a sweet-talkin', sugar coated candy man oh

da da da da da

I sat by, in silent embarrassment, as she completed her act, and nodded in agreement as her mommy complimented her language skills. Ya think I shoulda told her?

Sale or No?

2007-08-31T08:33:00.000+02:00

And, no! This is not referring to the lack of regularly seen sconti throughout Italy, but rather. Salt or no salt.

On your watermelon, I mean?

All summer, at the amazement, and sometimes utter disguist of the Italians, I have added a dash of sale to my watermelon.

Well, I finally got one Italian to try it.

And, he liked it!

Do you?

"Wedding Traditions - All' Italiana!" WW - Part 1

2007-08-29T12:37:00.000+02:00

"Ne di Venere Ne di Marte non si sposa ne si parte!"

Welcome to Part One of a Five-Part Series about le nozze, i matrimoni or, as we say in English, WEDDINGS!

On the board today...Tradizioni Italiani!

Wedding traditions, in both the US and Italy, date back further than Martha Stewart, Preston Bailey, or theknot.com. But, shhh…don’t tell Martha! Many of the customs we hold so sacred to our ceremonies derived from rather odd sources, and to be quite frank – are rather scary.

For example, did you know
- The word "bride" comes from the old English name for "cook."

- One “wedding veil” theory dates back to ancient times when pre-arranged marriage couples didn’t meet until the wedding day. To ensure the groom didn’t have second thoughts upon seeing a less attractive bride, the veil was used to cover her face, and thus was not lifted until after the groom had said “I do.”

- The “honeymoon” originated when grooms captured their brides from neighboring towns. The groom anticipated the honeymoon would serve as a “cooling off” period for the bride’s family and all would be forgiven when they returned home.

Ahhh, but, I digress. Italian customs are much more challenging!

In parts of Italy, the groom would meet the bride at her home and walk her to the church. The town residents would watch and present the bride with many challenges to ensure she was an appropriate choice for the groom. For example, if she noticed a broom, picked it up, and put it away, she was considered a good housekeeper. If the couple comforted a crying child, it was predicted they would be good parents. Giving generously to a beggar signified a good heart.

As if trying to convince the town people you are a suitable couple isn’t hard enough, you also had to fight off the evil eye. Legend called for the groom to carry a small piece of iron in his pocket to ward off the malocchio, since his happiness could provoke jealousy and invite supernatural danger.

Particularly in Northern Italy, the groom would carry the bouquet of flowers to the Wedding Mass. The color and style of the bouquet was supposed to be a surprise, and signified a present from the groom’s family to the bride. Nowadays, you’d be hard pressed to find a bride who didn’t want to choose her own flowers, and who would let her honey-to-be choose the colors.

Throughout Southern Italy, the bridal couple would shatter a vase into many pieces at the conclusion of the wedding day. The number of pieces represented the number of years they would be happily married. Let’s hope that vase doesn’t just break in half, or a superstitious couple might find themselves in a less-than-celebratory mood on their wedding night.

Candy-covered almonds, or confetti, were once tied in mesh bags and tossed at the couple to ensure a fruitful marriage. Today, bags or boxes are filled with the candied almonds and presented to guests signifying “the bitter and the sweet” sides of marriage. The number of almonds should be an odd number, preferably five or seven, both of which are good-luck numbers.

Like the bride’s bouquet toss and the couple’s first dance in the states, several Italian customs are still honored today. At some weddings, the best man cuts the groom’s tie into small pieces and “sells” them to guests. The proceeds are given to the couple to help pay for the wedding band. Many Italian grooms now carry an additional, less expensive tie in anticipation of this tradition.

Italians love food, and thus, it serves as focal point of the festivities. Guests often enjoy (or sometimes not so much) two or three servings of appetizers, two of three courses of pasta dishes, and two or three servings of meat or fish dishes, sorbet, fruit, and desserts. In ancient Rome, a loaf of wheat bread was broken over the heads of the bride and groom to ensure a fertile and fulfilling life…and guests would munch on the crumbs. How, after 11 plus courses a guest could munch down on bread is beyond imagination. But, since you wouldn’t find a bride who would let someone throw stale bread into her perfectly manicured head, this tradition should no longer be a problem.

Wedding traditions and customs will continue to be as varied as cake fillings and color choices, flower petals and stationary options, but one thing remains steady. And, what is that? Come back next week to find out!

"Neither marry nor depart on the day of Venus or of Mars!"

And....the Winner is!

2007-08-28T11:15:00.000+02:00

Thank you to everyone who donated money, said prayers, or thought "happy" thoughts for my friend Andrea during the Breast Cancer 3-Day Contest.

Without further ado....

The winner of a brand new Calabrese-something regalo

is....

Annika of Dove Mi Porta Il Cuore

Although my contest is over, you can still donate to Andrea - or any of the other walkers through November! Just click here!

Ground-Breaking News!

2007-08-24T17:46:00.000+02:00

I try to keep this blog as professional as possible and not really discuss my personal life! Ha! As if...(and yes, that was an intentional throwback to Alicia Silverstone in Clueless!)

We all know my life is an open book, and not always as simple as Paperino!

So - I absolutely must share with you our latest ground-breaking news, and when I say ground-breaking I mean...literally...we're breaking the ground!

As hard as it is to believe, there are contractors who work in August. I know, because they started this week breaking the ground for our new house.

This is more or less where the house will be built.

After two years of working with the architect, pushing paperwork, and making plans we are finally getting started, and it's all in the hands of a Bobcat!

Breast Cancer 3-Day

2007-08-22T11:47:00.000+02:00

"What are you going to do with a degree in Communication?"

I heard that question at least 100 times during college when I told someone about my major...

"What are you going to do with a degree in Communication?"

And, my response was usually...

"Anything I want..."

I believed that, too. I tossed around the idea of PR and I thought about Non-Profit work. I enjoyed time in Special Events until I met my true love...Training and Development.

One thing I did not consider was SALES. Why? Because I hate asking people for stuff...especially money. In fact, I once went two weeks in college eating only saltine crackers (and $2 gas station diet pills so I wouldn't feel the hunger pains) so I wouldn't have to tell my parents I was out of money.

But sometimes you see an opportunity so important, you have to get over yourself and take a step. So this is my step.

My friend Andrea is participating in the Breast Cancer 3-Day in Phoenix and she has to raise a minimum of $2,000 to continue. Here is what she says about the event.

"Did you know that every year more than 200,000 men and women are diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 will lose their lives to the disease? Every 3 minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer and every 13 minutes, the disease claims another life. Many people who walk in the 3-Day, walk because they have survived. Many other people walk in honor and memory of those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. I am walking for all of us who have been and will be touched by breast cancer."

And, I believe we all have been touched by cancer. I'm going to donate to Andrea in honor of my dad's mother who died of liver cancer in her 40s. I am going to donate for my dad's dad who died of brain cancer, and who I only remember from the vantage-point of my three year old self, as brown slacks from the knee down and candy corn sweets year-round. I will donate for my Aunt Catherine who survived her battle with breast cancer three years ago, my friend, Dee who did not.

If you would like to donate to Andrea's event, visit her personal donation page and make an online donation or print a form.

Taking a cue from my bi-bloggin' buddy over at Bleeding Espresso, I'm going to up the ante. If you decide to donate to Andrea, let me know in the comments section. On Wednesday, August 22 I will draw a name from the list and send you a ricordo di Calabria (my choice).

If you are unable to donate, then please add your positive thoughts and prayers, not only for Andrea's mission, but for the heroes who battle this disease every day, and those who continue to fight for a cure.

My Bruta Figura

2007-08-22T09:14:00.000+02:00

Ok, Ok...it happens to all of us at some point or another, right?

Right?

Oh, come on...

Well, it happened to me. I made my first Italian bruta figura. How did it happen?

Well, let me show you some pictures of the most recent wedding we attended...and we'll see if YOU can tell.

This is the church located just "above" downtown Catanzaro where the lucky couple tied the knot. Nope. No bruta figura there!

Ahhh...what a sweet couple. See anything bad?? Me, either!

Ohhh, how pretty. The bomboniere table with confetti pouches for everyone. Che bella!

The decorations and table cards are elegante', not bruta...

Oh, yea....Ouch! There it is....See it? See it? Maybe this will remind you! Or, this!

Oh, there it is again!

Well, yes, I did it. I wore the SAME DRESS to TWO WEDDINGS in the SAME SUMMER! Che vergogna!

My justification - as if I have to justify myself, is that Pep and I were the only guests present at both nuptials, and he has a bad memory...

Do you?

Un Mondo Piccolo

2007-08-18T15:03:00.000+02:00

Walt and his pal Topolino were on to something when they sang about our Small World.

Imagine.

They had never even heard of the Internet...never sent an email...never read a blog.

What would they say now?

Several times a week I get an email from someone commenting on this blog.

And. I. Love. It.

As a wanna-be-famous-someday writer, I am thrilled people read my posts, and I am even more excited they like them. Most of these emails, well, actually ALL of these emails have come from people who don't leave comments. Even better! I didn't know you were here.

Last week I got an usual email from a fellow Texan who now lives near Boston. With 856 miles from Orange to El Paso and 922 miles from Spearman to Brownsville, this gal and I grew up 40 miles apart, our high school teams are now rivals, and we chose the same hotel for our weddings.

She found this blog when a co-worker mentioned it saying, "This girl is from Texas...I wonder if you know the city." My new friend replied, "Texas is a big place...I doubt it!" What a surprise!

Her co-worker, as it turns out is an Italian-American who is in love with a man from...can you guess? If you said Italy, you were too vague! If you said Calabria, you were warmer. Yes, my friends, this gal is dating a man from Catanzaro!

She is visiting next month and hoping to relocate here to the instep of the Bel Paese by early 2008. I wonder if Calabria is ready for four of us?

Back in May I broadcast my Advil addiction to the World Wide Web. Well, I was emailed about that one, too. Just last month I received an email from a former anti-drug campaign spokesperson.

Cherri Johnson, the girl I shamelessly brag about marching with stumbled across my blog when her assistant was doing a Google search for "marching bands" or something similar. She is still an advocate for children's rights and busy with her acting career.

I absolutely love hearing from the people who read this blog. Whether you comment on the posts, send me a personal email, or even tell my mother about something you read...it really does make my day. So, thank you.

I wonder what Walt would say if he could see us now!

The cherries painting is by Lillian Michiko Bailey. Amazing, isn't it?

Take 5, Folks

2007-08-15T12:48:00.000+02:00

Happy Ferragosto, friends! Today, August 15 marks two important occasions. First and foremost, it represents the assumption of the Virgin Maria into heaven. Secondly, and not quite so historically - it marks one of the biggest vacation days in Italy. Although many Italians I talked to didn't even realize the two were related, the dates inevitably coincide for a reason.

If you are sitting at your computer today doing anything other than blogging - BASTA! For those of you not in Bella Italia, you are personally invited to enjoy Ferragosto with us.

But, I must warn you. I am going to have a very busy day.

- Sleep in
- Read a book. No! Not that one. I am going to start a new one.
- Nap
- Read some more...

Che bello!

I've mentioned before what a book worm I can be, but, have I mentioned a fantastic new "Book Club" I joined a few months ago? "Sisterhood of the Traveling Books" was created by Shelley and Jessica as a way for avid readers to share their love of the written word - without going broke in the process! The value is multiplied ten-fold for expats like me without access to English-language literature.

Or, if you would rather get the long and short of it on your books before you read them, check out this new website, coming August 27. But, there is more! Click here to join in the pre-party fun and for your chance to win a bag full of books.

And...that's it, folks! I took five minutes today to write in and let you know about these great readin' opps and now YOU take (at least) five minutes to enjoy Ferragosto!

Buon divertimento!

Kickin' It Up a Notch

2007-08-14T14:54:00.000+02:00

Peppe and I have decided it is time to kick our language skills up a notch! He, for one, is ready to learn Spanish. He insists this has nothing to do with his secret dream-filled love affair with Shakira, or his, thus so far, futile attempts to learn her latest song "Las de la Intuicion."

He simply refuses to take my Cheech and Chong-inspired approach to learning foreign-language songs...

For example, according to sing365, Shakira says

"Y creo que empiezo a entender
despacio, despacio, comienzas a entender"

But, we all know she is really saying

"You can't always get what you want
Espresso, Espresso, Espresso..."

The girl just wants a cup of coffee!
------

Or, at church, somehow the words get mixed up from

"Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna
Nel alto de cieli..."

to

"Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna
Anotherrrrr Cherrye...."

I'm not being sacrilegious...that is just what I hear!

So, to kick it up a notch, Pep and I have decided to start reading in other languages.

He chose

And, I chose.

What??

Going to the Chapel

2007-08-12T16:56:00.000+02:00

Birds are singing and bees are buzzing - love is in the air. As in America, summer is the season of love, and with that love, comes marriage, and before you know it, a baby carriage.

Oh, wait. I got ahead of myself.

Anyway, you might remember a few weeks ago when I was lamenting over a dress I needed for a wedding. Well, I stuffed my chunky butt into that dress and headed on up to Benevento for my first experience, not only at an Italian wedding, but as an Italian testimone.

And, we had a BLAST.

After a five hour drive, ahem, with a broken AC, we arrived in bellissima Cepelone. The beautiful sposa, whose Belgian-born daddy is also a famous contractor lives just beneath a medieval castle. This picture doesn't do it justice.

We arrived just in time for the pre-wedding party, where there were plenty of homemade sangrias and pizza for everyone. The multi-cultural crowd included relatives from Belgium, France, and Italy. And, of course - there was the Texana!

What a fest!

Nine o'clock came early the next morning, when we met again at the bride's family's home. Everyone went out of their way to make us feel welcome, and someone even made me a cup of American coffee!

I was only the witness, but I felt like a princess when the hairstylist came down and offered me her services...of course, I also felt like Raggedy Ann, since I had, indeed already done my own hair...but I let that slip and accepted her offer!

At last the time came for us to make the short drive to the church. It was small and quaint, but full of charm and beauty. They even have a cat in residence who attends all of the masses and sits at the alter near the priest. I was unable to get pictures of the kitty since the bride and groom wanted us sitting right beside them. They even had special "testimone" chairs.

The bride and groom were all smiles as they exited the church, but many of the guests, myself included, were in tears.

At the reception, I enjoyed a few more Italian "firsts."

- I ATE 11 courses that spread out over six hours!

- I danced a traditional Napoletano wedding dance with the bride's father.

- I sang along to Italian karaoke.

Unlike some Italian weddings where the bride and groom sit alone at a sweetheart table, the sposi invited us to to the head table.

In the end it was a long day, twelve hours of wedding joy, to be exact.

But, it was a good day. A magical day. I feel honored to have been included in this special occasion and grateful to have been selected as one of their testimone, even if I was in a big, ole yellow dress!

The Southern Italian - Southeast Texas Rain Dance

2007-08-04T11:53:00.000+02:00

As our prayers for heaven's tears go (as of yet) unanswered, my family in Texas in getting SWAMPED. Where normally one would complain about never-ending rainy days, my family has taken to bragging about them.

They are so cruel.

Earlier in the week my mom sang, "We have rain...we have rain...do ya'll?"

Grrr....

Then, my friend Angela told me, "My pool overflowed today!"

Ahuhhh...poor thing....
Even Baby Cole got in a stab when he, in all of his 6 year old wisdom said, "I don't know what we are going to do about all this rain!"

Well...he is forgiven.

Temperatures last week reached 111 degrees, and even the seemingly useless AC, became, in fact useless. We've seen more than our share of Southern Italian fires erupting that have ruined our beautiful countryside. Burnt fields have taken the place of our lush green mountains, and the scent of smoke and burning trees no longer incites fear or excitement.

The lack of rain combined with the fear of the fires has taken its toll. It is too hot to go to the beach, and, to echo the words of Beaumont Boy, Mark Chesnutt, it's too hot to fish and too hot for golf.

Perhaps all of this explains the strange dream I had last night.

I was with my friend Sognatrice, her P and my P, and a crowd of other Calabrese. We were standing in the streets near the piazza at Catanzaro Lido literally, my friends, doing a RAIN DANCE.

And, we got after it!

We danced and jumped and sang chants that were incomprehensible in both the Italian and the English language until finally....

a single drop of rain,

followed by a steady drizzle,

that erupted into an all out rain storm.

We continued our celebratory dance in reward for our efforts until I awoke.

I stepped outside to see an overcast sky and was met with a cool chill. Is it possible? Did our rain dance do the trick?

Nah...

That cloud lasted about 5 minutes, and once again, the sun is blazing down on us in what promises to be, another bellissima, albeit dryissima giorno!

Rockin' and Rollin', Schmoozing and Snoozing

2007-08-02T10:20:00.000+02:00

Well now, if I had one of those cute little smiley face things that looks all embarrassed and shy I'd post one now. (But, I don't. So, you'll have to imagine it!)

Earlier this month, I was named a Rockin' Girl Blogger by one of my all-time favorite Rockin' Girl Bloggers - Sognatrice, of Bleeding Espresso.

See? Here's my banner to prove it!

And, now, I get to pass the torch to some of my favorite Rockin' Girl Bloggers. But, as I think about it...this is HARD to do. I think everyone who is listed in my sidebar is rockin', and everyone, with the exception of my friend Antonino, is a rockin gal!

But, a torch must be passed, and so, here it goes...

Giula of From Head to Boot who said this last month when talking about customs issues in Italy. "Well, the Dogana police (that's what I'll call them) were the ones to deliver my package on Friday. When I heard the words, "Signora, questo paccho viene da l'estero, cè una tassa di Dogana da pagare," my face scrunched up. He used a whole lot of other words, but after Dogana fee, he lost me. Somewhere in there though, I managed to also hear the words, 'molto pesante!'"

NYC/Caribbean Ragazza who cracked me up a few weeks ago when she said this referring to Jennifer, Cameron, and Jessica on the cover of US Magazine. "Like I'm supposed to shed a tear. My ass has never been married to anyone much less Brad Pitt or Nick Lachey. I told my boss if I were on the cover it would say something different. For example, out of shape, broke and alone."

Erin of Fully Alive and Ready to Smile who recently wrote, "I'm 5 foot 7 inches tall and I have the tiniest fingers and toes. It has caused much comic relief for lots of people...They are so short that I have tried and failed at 3 different instruments...piano, flute and guitar. I can't reach an octave on the piano, my pinky finger goes completely numb while playing flute (so much so that the entire side of my hand right into my arm goes numb) and I can't reach around the neck of the guitar."

And...what is this? Another award?? Now, I really need that blushing emoticon!! Once again, the lovely, and all too generous, Sognatice has called me out. This time she said I am a SCHMOOZER...Is that a good thing!?!

Well, this is what she said about bloggers who schmooze, " (they) effortlessly weave their way in and out of the blogosphere, leaving friendly trails and smiles, happily making new friends along the way. They don’t limit their visits to only the rich and successful, but spend some time to say hello to new blogs as well. They are the ones who engage others in meaningful conversations, refusing to let it end at a mere hello - all the while fostering a sense of closeness and friendship."

To this I say, "ahhhh....heck!" Now I AM embarrased. But the gals I listed below are better at this than I am...trust me and check out their blogs!

Nadine of Just Being Me, who always has a kind, encouraging word or a prayer to offer, (plus she has beautiful pictures on her blog and she has written a really cool book about the Mafia!)

KC of Niente di Nuovo Avviene Sotto il Sole, who knows what I am going through and provides pieces of advice mixed with a bit of humor.

Cheeky of All Over the Map, who burst into the blogging world, leaving bits of happiness, but has since disappeared...maybe she is already in Australia?!? Where are you? We miss you!

Shelley of At Home in Rome, or is it REALLY ROME now?!? Oops... Well, either way, Shelley offers experienced commentary and guidance. Somehow I always feel better after hearing from her!

Louise of Living Out Loud, Trying to Be Quiet who is always positive and thoughtful in her responses.

Congratulations to all you Rockin Bloggers and Schmoozing Ladies. Thanks for adding to our fun!

The Castle in the Sand

2007-07-29T10:04:00.000+02:00

Somewhere, 40 minutes from Catanzaro, nestled in the Crotone District and backed into the Ionian Sea is Calabria's very own sand castle. It is true!

Well....it LOOKS like a sand castle.

According to the official website for Le Castella, the goddess Calypso lived there with Ulysses "for a long time."

The geographical location of Punta Castella was created as part of the "Friendship Treaty" between Rome and Taranto in 304 B.C. In accordance with this treaty, Roman ships were not allowed to navigate in the eastern part of Capo Licinio. The people of Taranto set up a lookout post at Le Castella, in order to see ships coming from the Tyrrehenian Sea and heading towards Taranto.

And, it is still standing today. Here are two more pictures from my recent trip.

"Till Death Do us Part"

2007-07-26T10:29:00.000+02:00

... what a SCARY concept! Yuck. I mean who wants to think about the dead, dying, and death on the happiest day of their lives? Not me! I want to think happy thoughts...positive thoughts...

Why not say instead "forever" or "for always" or even "forever and ever and always?" I'm just saying...It certainly isn't a very HAPPY concept, now is it? Or, a positive one.

Well, Italiani take this v-e-r-y seriously.

I'm not even referring to Pep's dad who, sadly, had the love of his life pass away five years ago this August. It was quite a tragic experience for all of them. His dad still wears his wedding ring and refers to her as his wife, almost as if in present tense. The loss is still very prevalent in his life, and I don't see the opportunity for him to meet and fall in love again. He isn't interested.

It's somewhat more saddening for Pep's Aunt, whose husband fell ill nine years ago, and two days later was dead. She, too, still dons her wedding ring and vows to never love another.

Even more disheartening is a different zia. Her husband was stricken with cancer and passed away almost 35 years ago. She has spent more than three decades, and half of her life without him...wearing his ring and refusing other suitors.

This is not unlike our friend's mom who continues to wear black, day in and day out, spending every day of her life in perpetual mourning for her lost husband, who passed almost 30 years ago.

The idea of a true, soul-sharing, bound-for-eternity love is, without doubt, a beautiful concept. But, and I am saying this without an ounce of judgment for the afore-mentioned lovers, I wonder what their counterparts would say. It is my suspicion they would want happiness...days without loneliness...true contentment.

I shared my controversial opinion with Pep, who, not surprisingly disagreed with me.

"If something happens to me, tesoro mio," I urged him, "You have my blessing to move on."

He didn't return the offer.

The idea of a love so consuming and ever-lasting that it promises to transcend death, is, to be quite honest with you, terrifying. Terrifying, yet beautiful. Overwhelming, but special. I feel fortunate to enter into a union with a man with these deeply-rooted sentiments about love and togetherness, but fearful of the implications.

I don't like thinking about death.

"Forever" conjures a much nicer image...

So, maybe instead of saying, "Till death due us part" when we make our vows in November, Peppe and I will just say, "Forever and Ever."

Amen!

What Do You Get When You Mix

2007-07-19T08:57:00.000+02:00

Italian Bureaucracy and Wedding Planning?

Easy sailing?

Not quite.

A nightmare?

Nope! Not again.

A good laugh?

Well...decide for yourself.

I sent an email to the Italian Consulate in Houston requesting detailed information on the process I should take after Pep and I get married.

I received this automated response.

I will be out of the office until July 27. For emergencies such as arrest by police, death, or international abduction of a minor you are kindly requested to call the operator or send us an e-mail.

I guess that answers the question.

They DO have internet connection in Heaven.

WHO KNEW?

Another Challenge??

2007-07-17T20:02:00.000+02:00

I think not!

Our very own Sognatice had the courage to test me not once, but twice...

But, this one was a TEXAS-SIZE dare! Yep, ya'll! She questioned my Texanism, or som'um like that"

Well - I think I've proved myself once again! Bring on the dares, ya'll! Bring em on!

You Are 84% Texas

Well, butter my butt and call me a biscuit. This ain't your first rodeo!

How Texas Are You?

I'm a BIG FAT Italian Testimone

2007-07-13T16:07:00.000+02:00

Or, at least I will be in a few days.

Peppe's best bud is getting married this weekend in a little ole town near Naples called Benevento. And, we are making the trip!

We have no choice, ya see...WE are the testimone, or the witnesses, or for lack of an even better term - the Maid of Honor and Best Man.

Uh, ok.

But, what does that mean for an Italian wedding?

I asked Peppe this question a few months ago when I realized that, I, too, was graced with this honor.

"Nothing to worry about, Cicina...." he stresses. "It just means we sit at the same table as them for dinner!"

Really? That's it?

Well, luckily for me, we crashed a wedding a few weeks back that was held during our normally scheduled Mass. Peppe pointed out the testimone.

They WEREN'T just sitting there!

Of course, If I'd have known I needed to take notes, I'd have sat at the front (although those seats were all marked off with ribbons and flowers, but that is neither here nor there). The point is - the testimone were walking around, doing things, listening to, and more importantly for me - understanding the priest!

I'm in trouble!

To add to the dancing butterflies in my stomach about my undeterminable duties, I ask myself,(as the groom-to-be has asked me once a month for the last six months) "What will I wear?"

I had decided on an elegant and never-been-worn black dress from my closet...I just needed the perfect pair of shoes. I'm in Italy - that should be easy, right?

Wrong.

So, in my everything-happens-at-the-last-minute-and-I'm-cool-with-it-that-way bravado, I head downtown.

And, what to my wondering eyes should appear?
But, a beautiful dress and....

A SCONTI sign and a PROMOZIONE banner!!

I peer into the window...cute dresses, DECENT prices...I WILL GO IN!

Once they understand I am a buyer, they pull every wearable (or, maybe NOT so wearable) dress off the rack and display it lovingly on the counter for me to see. No, No, No..oh Dio No...uh, maybe!

So, I settle on sexy, slinky, lavender and deep gray dress. I try it on.

YIKES!

I peek my head around the corner of the dressing room door, "Do you have one a little bit bigger?"

I motion to my hips and buttocks area. "This ain't pretty!" I want to say. But, instead I muster, "Non mi piace, questa" as I make a general sweep with my arms to display the area that I don't piace.

Now, I can't really quote ya here, because I don't know exactly HOW she said this. But, the meaning was clear. "They don't COME any BIGGER!"

GULP! (Embarassed me)

So, they hand me another dress. Size? XL

"This is the same size," they tell me, "only the fabric is more flowing..." or some kind of similiar bullshit! (As you can see, I don't like being told the biggest dress in the store is too tight on my fat arse!)

So, I take the XL, and, to my relief, it is too big. I show them all the places it is too big, while the man tells me it looks perfect, and the woman finds the same dress in a smaller size.

Now, I don't normally like to go around telling the world wide web my dress size, but I need to prove a point (if only to myself)!

In America

I

wear

a

size

six!

And, It's not just me! It seems other Americans can't wear Italian clothes! Even when they are pregant!

In the end, I settled on that pretty, flowing, yellow dress. Only, I am still a newbie and I wear with (apparent) pride my RIP ME OFF CAUSE I AIN'T ITALIAN stamp, and well, I didn't get the sconti. But, they did alter it for me to perfection.

So, I am ready to go.

Dress? Got it!

Shoes? Got 'em!

Handbag? Working on it!

Duties? Boh!

Someone Onced Asked

2007-07-10T18:52:00.000+02:00

me what I miss most about America (besides the food, she added). That got me to thinking...

I miss...

- squeeze hugs from Cole.

- weekend shopping trips with my mom, grandma, sister, aunts, and cousins (and finding a 75% off sale at the mall).

- forming a line to receive communion.

- driving wherever I want - without an increase in heart rate or sweaty palms.

- Ya Ya parties.

- having that "at ease" feeling about life. Knowing I can go anywhere and ask anything and not only be understood, but more importantly, know what to expect.

- Crazy 8s and Chuck E Cheese (only not in the same day). You can't have too much excitement at my age without it hurting.

- understanding an overheard conversation, without trying.

- after work drinks.

- girls' nights.

- Sex in the City martini parties.

- Florida road trips.

- receiving a phone call from a friend.

- cappuccini so big you need to use two hands.

- 24-hour drugstores.

- buying bottled water at a gas station when you have been driving too long and will just DIE if you don't taste water soon.

- brainstorming book ideas with dad, in person.

- Sunday afternoons at maw-maws.

- affordable, and yet-somehow-still-comfortable shoes.

- going to church with Paw-Paw.

- sitting for hours at Rao's Bakery (on Dowlen), chatting with a friend.

- ordering out.

- Barnes and Noble.

- watching a tear-jerking chic flick with my sister.

- manis and pedis (done at an all-girls movie night).

- shoe trading.

- randomly running into people I know.

- surprising my parents with pizza.

- taking Cole to the movies.

- and a million other little things...

These aren't moments I dwell on, or even consciously consider on a daily basis, and I wouldn't have and shouldn't have gone off on this mile-long pity party...

but, someone asked.

Ladies and Gentlemen

2007-07-06T16:24:00.000+02:00

Raise your glasses...

Put a smile on your face...

Prepare to make a speech...

Oh, wait. That would be ME who has to make a speech, right?

Well, believe it or not (and trust me, I am still leery of celebration)

Il Cedro Bed and Breakfast

Officially Open

(Ringing bells and blowing whistles inserted here.)

But, in keeping with the "let's-take-as-much-of-your-time-as-we-can" plan, it wasn't easy.

This morning, Peppe called "Person #3" who had our official paperwork. "Come on down," she said, more or less, as this is a rough translation.

So, we did.

We arrive at her office and are told, among other things, that she is "out in giro"...argh!!!

My initial reaction was

But, then I thought, "Piano, piano..." She hasn't given us the paper yet.

And, then...only 45 minutes (and two mistakes on her part) later...

Oh, yes, ladies and gentlemen. We have been waiting five messy months for this. Isn't it bellissima?

Hurry!!!

2007-07-06T13:37:00.000+02:00

There are only 12 hours left to cast YOUR vote for the New Seven Wonders of the World!

The field has been narrowed to 20 contenders, including

- The Eiffel Tower
- The Great Wall of China
- The Roman Colosseum
- Peru's Machu Picchu
- The Taj Mahal
- The ancient city of Petra
- The Statue of Liberty
- The Sydney Opera House
- The Acropolis in Greece
- Chichen Itza in Mexico
- Easter Island Statues in Chile
- Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil
- Angkor Wat in Cambodia
- The Kremlin in Russia
- Timbutku, Mali
- Stonehenge in the UK
- Hagia Sophia in Turkey
- Neuschwantstein Castle in Germany
- Kiyomizu Temple in Japan
- Alhambra in Spain

Be a part of history - vote now at The New Seven Wonders website! The winners will be announced tomorrow night - 07/07/07 in Lisbon, Portugal!

Enjoy!

We're Almost There, Baby

2007-07-04T09:25:00.000+02:00

Almost...

After months of cutting through Italian Red Tape (with dull scissors, no doubt,) Il Cedro Bed and Breakfast is set to open its doors, ahem, "officially" that is, this FRIDAY!

Woo Hoo!

Who knew the paperwork would take FIVE months to process? I know, I know, some of you expats living in Italy coulda guessed, but really now...FIVE MONTHS?!?

Even though we are still holding out for that official paper to post on our wall, Peppe and I think we've learned a whole bunch about running a B&B. For one thing, we know some decisions are harder to make than others, and we've learned that some parts of the job just-never-end!

Thanks to my B&B buddies, from Scotland back to Italy (Really Rome, Chaplin, and Little Italy) I've been given a heads up on expectations and boundaries.

Such as

"Set a time limit for check-ins"

"Work really hard on your website"

"It will take time..."
Kataroma added more about this in one of her posts last week. Interesting, no?

Sooo....here we go. After years of planning, constructing, remodelling, decorating, and, (he he) waiting...We're almost there, baby.

Almost...

Some Things are Just Funnier

2007-06-26T21:24:00.000+02:00

in Italian...

This sign is one of them.

Any questions?

The Search has Ended

2007-06-24T15:58:00.000+02:00

I'm not alone in the expat world when it comes to missing American goodies. Some expat bloggers show pictures of themselves munching away on the things they miss (presumably to make the rest of us jealous). Some shamelessly boast their goodies and showcase their love notes (Again...jealousy)! While, still others post helpful recipes to help us charge through the cravings. (Grazie mille!)

But, quick!

Can anyone name the one thing YOU think I miss most about Texas??

(Friends and family don't count!)

Minute up!

You got it!

Well, my blogmates, the search has ended.

A few days ago, Peppe came home and announced, "Cicina, I found a Mexican Restaurant!"

"Actually," he continued, "It is a Pub/Pizzeria/Messicana place! We'll go tomorrow night!"

And, bless his heart...he was sooo excited. Not for himself, as you may remember, but because he knows I have been on a never-ending search for the ultimate taco. Or, fajita. Or, and even and more importantly, actually, the ultimate margarita!

But, a Pub/Pizzeria/Mexican Restaurant?? I was skeptical!

All day I fought the urge to think of chips and homemade salsa. When the wayward quesadilla made its way into my thoughts - I pushed through. I would not let myself become overly anxious.

"At the very least we'll eat a good pizza," became my daytime mantra.

"I will not get too excited...I will not get too excited...I will not..."
As we approached the restaurant, I began looking for signs that Calabrese natives could produce guacamole.

I saw this.

"An American flag," I squealed! "That is a good sign!"

We parked the car and upon walking towards the Pub/Pizzeria/Mexican Restaurant, this advertisement greeted us.

"LATIN NIGHTS. Another good sign!"

And, around the corner!

"I'm home, baby!"

We are offered a balcony table underneath a cute, thatched roof.

She hands us a menu.

Still worried, I open it with apprehension. I am afraid to look down.

But, Pep isn't, so he boldly announces...."They have it!"

And, indeed they do.

Just to prove it, here are a few pictures from the menu.

And, this very tiny picture shows a sampling of their offerings.

YES - you are reading that correctly. Quesadillas - 20 Euro!

After I picked myself off the floor we made our decision...chips, salsa, and a mixed grilled plate. Peppe orders a Heineken.

"Do you have margaritas?" I ask the server (who just happened to have lived in Pennsylvania for 10 years.)

"He can make you one," she answers with a smile as she hands us our chips and salsa.

See that white "powder" on the chips? It isn't salt. Can you guess what it is? It is grated parmesan cheese!

Ladies and gentlemen...here she is. My friend, Rita!

We felt an "instant connection."

Seriously, the owner "Joe" made the best margarita I have had in Italy, comparable even to some in the states.

When I complimented his bartending...he sent out another one! On the house!

"It doesn't matter what anything else tastes like," I giddily told Peppe. "I am drinking a margarita and eating chips. I am home!"

Which was just as well, since the food (in all actuality) wasn't really Mexican. It was, however, Mexican'esque...which worked for me!

A potato-half covered bruschetta-style with

black beans, corn, and tomatoes.

A chili-filled burrito.

About halfway through our meal, I turn around to see...

Now isn't that just perfect?

As we pay our conto, I admire the restaurant interior.

Yes, my friends. The search has ended.

And, I've been found.

Un Segno di Dio

2007-06-21T11:36:00.000+02:00

I have a confession to make.

Noooo, it's not nearly as tragic as my last confession, but, it's pretty darn interesting all the same.

You see, last Sunday was an absolutely beautiful day here in Catanzaro. So bellissimo, in fact, that Pep and I did something we rarely do...

We skipped church.

Not only did we skip church, but we skipped church and went to the beach. My excuse was that I don't understand the mass anyway. Mom says this is a poor excuse.

I know...I know...I am wrought with shame. The same shame I felt as I was tanning my hide at Catanzaro Lido. At one point, I looked over at Pep and asked if he, too, felt (that infamous Catholic guilt) for skipping out on church. He did.

So, as I lay there on my stomach in my blue and white splattered bikini, silently beckoning the sun to alter my God-given skin tone, I start playing with the rocks in front of me.

"This one is interesting," I think as I reach out to take a closer look.

I turn it over and see...

"It's un Segno di Dio, Cicina," Pep says as I show him my new treasure. "We have to keep it!"

And, we do.

99 and Counting...

2007-06-18T15:17:00.000+02:00

This is my 99th post, ladies and gentlemen, and what better time (rather than tomorrow's 100th post) to tell you a little about myself.

Oh, wait - I've already done that.

Well, if reading 100 Things About Me, checking out my favorite and not-so-favorite things pictorially, or glancing through the other 98 posts (which I'm sure have just a wee bit about me scattered throughout) doesn't make you feel like we're friends...

Here are 99 MORE Things About Me.

99. Starting lists like this are always the hardest! Once I get going I will be ok, but it is the "gettin' goin'" that is hard to do.

98. I re-read my 100 Things list I wrote about three months ago. Still no inspiration.

97. The reason I feel so very un-motivated is because Peppe and I wrapped up Season 5 of Ally McBeal last night. Season 5 was it for Ally and friends... She had to say "goodbye" and now so do we...bygones!

96. No, I am sad. Really.

95. Although you might not believe it (after reading #96 and #97) I am NOT a big TV watcher...especially here in Italy.

94. In fact, there are absoulutely NO shows I watch on a regular basis here. There aren't even any shows I watch on a non-regular basis.

93. Even the last year or so I was in Texas I didn't watch TV much. I was always busy with the students at LU, or away from home too much to get "hooked."

92. I did, however, love Friends and Will and Grace.

91. I also liked Everybody Loves Raymond...but only once it was syndicated.

90. Same with Frasier.

89. And Sex and the City.

88. I think one of the reasons I liked Ally McBeal so much is because I could relate!

87. She was crazy and neurotic.

86. That scares me.

85. But not near as much as it scares Peppe. (Wait. THAT isn't about me...hmmm....)

84. You see, I have a slightly obsessive personality.

83. That is why I will post, post, post, post and better yet read other blogs, read other blogs, read other blogs - then go cold. I get obsessed with something and let everything else go.

82. Currently I am on the wedding.

81. This resurgence of wedding planning began last week when I began having nuptial nightmares. Although slightly different from the ones I had before, these were, none the less, just as disturbing.

80. I dreamed Peppe's friend Mario (who is NOT a hair stylist, by the way) was doing my hair for the wedding. When my hair would cooperate no more, he CUT it - OFF! I kept repeating, "Non sono contenta, Mario...non sono contenta." (I am not happy, Mario. I am not happy!) He laughed with his hairstylist friends and called - me - oh, can I say? Can I tell you what he called me??

79. He called me BRIDEZILLA!

78. But, he said it in Italian. So, I am not really sure what he said...but the meaning was clear. In the same dream the photographer didn't show up and everyone took our wedding pictures with their digitial cameras! The next day I emailed all of our wedding vendors to "touch base."

77. I also continued to narrow down the world of opportunities for our honeymoon destination.

76. I spent four hours reseaching Belize yesterday.

75. And, I likey!

74. One of the more interesting things about Belize is the amazing scuba diving opportunities. I have wanted to go scuba diving since I was a bimba!

73. About eight years ago I went to Typhoon Lagoon at Disney (or, was it Blizzard Beach) - either way, I can't remember and it doesn't really matter! They have a tank where you can snorkel with sharks! Albeight, you are FAR removed, but in typical Disney'esque style - it is realistic and CLOSE UP.

72. They give you a little mask, a snorkel, and fins and send you on your way - reminding you NOT to kick (because of the crowd of people behind you). I was so excited!

71. I venture out into the tank and poke my head into the water...and commence to FREAK OUT!

70. Uhhhmh uhhhmh, whooo whooo whooo...I tried to control my breathing. To no avail!

69. I was a kicking-phene! Kick. Kick. Kick. I kicked until my legs could kick no more.

68. I heard the attractions host reminding me ever so gently..., "Please don't kick, miss."

67. I kicked harder.

66. I kicked a kid.

65. I didn't care.

64. I finally got to the other end of that 100-mile long tank, and jumped out! Safe at last!

63. So, do you guys think I should try deep sea diving in the Blue Hole in Belize?

62. You know how there are some people who can tell you off or say ugly things to you and you forgive them immediately? I'm not one of those people.

61. I am also unable to hide my feelings.

60. My FACE is an open book that betrays me every time.

59. It isn't because of an overwhelmingly desire to "do good," but I don't really lie.

58. I SUCK at it.

57. This is NOT good in all situations, my friends. "Do you like my new dress?" Uuhhh... "How do you like the dinner I made?" GULP... "Isn't the baby beautiful?"

56. I've actually developed a fool-proof save for the final question..."Ohhhh, the baby is just PRECIOUS!" ...cause it is...as, all babies are!

55. Also, I can't hold a grudge.

54. When I was younger I would forget I was supposed to be mad at someone, see them, and smile or wave. Then...dang! You just can't go back after that and say you forgot! That negates everything.

53. I am also a very forgiving person.

52. I will forgive (most) things many, many, many times.

51. But, once it gets to "that point" with someone...I am done. There is no looking back.

50. My mom thinks this makes me "cold," but I did give that person like a gazillion chances before it got to "that point."

49. I can't really think of too many instances, though, where this has happened. It usually happens with people at work.

48. More specifically, the boys clubs at various working establishments.

47. I am soooo NOT a team player when it comes to things like boys clubs. (I know, you are thinking it is cause I am not a boy...and, ok, maybe...but what I meant was I don't like to play favorites. I like everyone to play by the same rules. Cute concept, eh?)

46. Sometimes, and I am afraid to admit this to you, I can be a little, uh, shallow.

45. I am scared to death of getting that first gray hair.

44. Seriously! It is not a joke. I think I might cry when I see one.

43. I told Peppe this and he thinks I am silly. I told him when I get "that" hair, he has to be extra nice to me the whole day to make up for it.

42. Other people my age (and even some a little younger) joke about it. (Excuse my language here, but...that shit ain't funny!)

41. To make matters worse, I don't color my hair...yet!

40. Of course, when I see "that" hair, I will start.

39. My hair actually changes color with the seasons. It gets lighter in the summer months, and sometimes gets a reddish undertone in the winter. Very strange.

38. I love adventure, but, as I mentioned earlier I am scared to go diving.

37. I'd also like to jump out of an airplane.

36. And, go for a ride in a hot air balloon.

35. And, maybe, just maybe...bungee jump...

34. Oh, yea. Did I mention I am scared to death of heights? Think that is a problem?

33. My fear of heights is a little distorted to be honest with you.

32. As I have mentioned before, I was a cheerleader in high school and college. I was one of the girls they put "on top."

31. After the first few times, I wasn't scared anymore, and I learned to twist down and be tossed with ease.

30. It is because I trusted the people who were holding me.

29. However, if I stand on the roof of a building - even very far from the edge, I get scared. My heart starts racing, palms get sweaty, knees start quivering. Same thing happens with stairs that don't have a solid railing.

28. I finally determined that I don't trust myself not to fall. I trusted the other cheerleaders not to drop me, perhaps more than I trusted myself not to fall off. Strange.

27. A couple of years ago I met this fear head on when I led a group of students at a leadership conference.

26. We had always done High Ropes Challenges during this leadership conference, but I decided THAT year - I wouldn't just take pictures.

25. I started off small. The zip line, which, if you haven't ever done it before, can be quite intimidating. Here I was, sitting on the edge of a platform, wearing a helmet, tied here and there to this and that, about to voluntarily slide off and plunge into the open air..."Don't forget to breath..." was the last warning, before....GUSH! And, I did it!

24. "That wasn't too bad," I thought. So I headed to the next challenge.

23. I am not sure what this monster was called, but the challenge was something like this. You climb a telephone pole, you walk across a highwire, you sit down on a wooden stoop, you zip line down to safety.

22. "I think I can...I think I can..." So, I tried.

21. A few of the students at this conference had been working with me for years, and were quite aware of my dislike of too-far-off-the-ground activities. They cheered and cheered for me all of the way up that pole.

20. All the while, I was whispering, "Hail Mary, Full of Grace, the Lord is with thee..." over and over again. I repeated this prayer as I switched positions to be able to walk the highwire..."Blessed art thou amongst women..." I continued the prayer as I walked the hirewire and arrived at the wooden plank... "And, blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus." Certain Mary would not yet let me down, I finished the zip line with the same prayer on my lips! I DID IT!

19. Going back a few years, I, at the tender age of seven, became a vegetarian.

18. I always was just a little too naive for my own good. I never knew where meat came from. No one ever told me, and I never questioned it.

17. Well, all of that changed when my first grade teacher, in all of her gruesome horror held up a picture of cow. I still remember the picture vividly. The cow was standing, facing sideways in a pasture of green grass, a little gold-colored bell dangling around his neck.

16. My teacher said, "See the picture of this cow? When you eat a hamburger, this is what you are eating!"I don't know how I managed to get through the rest of the day, but I rushed home after school to share this conspiracy with my mother. "Did you know meat comes from COWS?" I gasped. I was crushed to learn that my mother, did indeed know, how hamburgers are made.

15. So - for the next three or four years I swore off all things meat-related. "But, you love bacon," Mom would say as she attempted to serve me a BLT. "Tacos are your favorite." "Just a little bit of spaghetti sauce, ok?" Poor thing...she tried. But, I was determined.

14. She became quite convinced I would shrivel up and die from lack of protein. "Then, you have to eat this egg!" She demanded. But, out of no loyalty to the chicken, I couldn't eat the egg...I had gagged on them since infancy and my egg-eating habits weren't about to change.

13. So, I survived on peanut butter, french fries, baked potatoes, and salads. I wouldn't even eat pizza because I was convinced my mother had buried pepperoni below the cheese. "You know," she tried one day, "Some people say plants are living. And, potatoes come from plants. They even have 'eyes'. You can't starve, Cherrye." Then, she mustered a few tears.

12. But, I was too smart for that!

11. However, a mother's prayer never goes unanswered. One morning, as she was preparing breakfast, I told her I would try a little bit of bacon. I was a vegetarian no more.

10. Speaking of childhood memories, and just on the heels of Father's Day, I have a great food-related / Dad memory.

9. One afternoon, I met Dad at his office. He was evidently a little stressed, presumably about an impending newspaper deadline, but offered me an after-school snack, anyway. He made me a cheese sandwich (this was during my vegetarian days) but with MAYONNAISE instead of mustard.

8. I took one bite and tasted the white-cream slimy mess of a mayonnaise taste and spit it out.

7. I remember it like it was yesterday. I followed Dad around the corner of the room, on his heels the whole time, ranting about how HE liked mayonnaise, but I didn't, and how could he make me that horrible sandwich. (Yes, I was a spoiled brat!)

6. I continued this dramatic expression, even after he had corrected his mistake and re-made the sandwich.

5. Finally, he turned around and looked directly at me, and said. "Oh, Cherrye, it doesn't matter anyway! You will have forgotten this by the time you are 20!"

4. Oops!

3. Well, as you can see after reading almost 199 things about me...I am not that complicated of a person.

2. I am loyal-to-the-end to friends and family, and I sometimes trust too easily.

1. And, I think that is the greatest thing about life. Exploring, meeting new people, expanding horizons...Being open minded to differences, but knowing where you stand. Looking back on yesterday with a smile, but looking to tomorrow with hope.

Thanks for reading Another 99 Things About Me. Happy Blogging!

Daddy's Little Girls

2007-06-17T08:00:00.000+02:00

Much to my father's disappointment (although he would never admit to having such delusions,) I am having trouble getting this going; searching for the first few lines to begin a dedication to the man who, so far, has made the biggest impact on my life.

He became a father very late in life, marrying my mom, whom he affectionately called his child-bride - 22 years his junior, when he was 44. I was born 13 months later, and by all accounts, I could do no wrong. I don't recall even one case of corporal punishment, and I remember one raised voice. He carried his girls, my sister and me, on his hip until our legs dragged far too low and my mother became embarrased. Perhaps it was his age, or maybe it was his character, but my father had unlimited patience and self-control. This, I did not inherit.

He was a newspaper man all his life, owning at one point three weekly papers throughout Southeast Texas. He says publishing is in his blood - and, I believe it. He tried to retire no less than three times, but constantly found himself back in an office, sitting at a desk, looking at a computer screen, before his stroke in October, 2000 forced his hand.

Now from a home office, where even the dreaded diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease has yet to quench his writer's palate, he continues to conjure ideas and organize thoughts for that next great story. The eternal optimist and dreamer, my father never loses hope - or faith - that something great is around the corner.

He recently completed a novel about a small-town journalist on the heels of the story of her lifetime. I am helping him type and get the text manuscript-ready. I SO hope this happens for him.

One would think that by the "ripe 'old age of 80" (I just had to use one of dad's favorite expressions here,) he would have walked a daughter down the aisle. Knowing his disease is degenerative and he is already experiencing movement problems, he "works out" two-to-three times a day...walking up and down their driveway, back and forth, five times.

My father is a hero of a man, full of interesting facts and historical information. He can talk for hours (and hold your interest,) or sit for hours and just listen. I HAVE NEVER HEARD HIM SAY A BAD THING ABOUT ANOTHER PERSON...how is that possible?

Here is a picture taken of "Daddy and his Girls" at Christmas a few years ago.

Happy Father's Day, Dad! I love you.

The Family that Pays Together

2007-06-12T09:46:00.001+02:00

Stays Together...

Isn't that how the saying goes???

Well, ok, not exactly, but I am wondering if there is some Italian variation on this.

What am I talking about?

Without divulging any names (or too much information) there is a small phenomenon (at least in my eyes) going on around Calabria. I am not sure if it is limited to our poor, desolate part of the country, or if I am just surrounded by some of the most giving people in the world.

Case #1:

There is guy we know who has a brother getting married this year. The brother and future sis-in-law want to have the Calabrese wedding of their dreams. As you may - or may not - have heard, this means BIG. The problem is lil bro and futura sis can't afford the wedding themselves. So, our friend, who had been saving his centisimi for a new house, is helping out. What a nice thing to do, right? Of course, if you have a great job, paying thousands of euro a month - it would be nice to help out a brother in need. This is the not the case. In order to be his brother's keeper, our friend is forgoing dinners out with his friends, skimping on important things he needs, and is passing on a trip to his best friend's wedding in Naples (that has been planned for almost two years.)

Case #2:

Let's say...some people we know...have a kid brother who yearned to go to college in the capital city. Instead of moving to bella Roma, finding a small job to help pay expenses, and working himself through school, his family has decided to pay. That is ok! A lot of kiddos do this in the states. What is the problem? The "problem" (which evidently isn't a problem for them, but makes me raise an eyebrow) is that it isn't only Mom and Dad who are sending money. Big Brother and Older Sister, again who DO NOT have even what could be considered decent-paying jobs, are footing the bill.

I know some of you are reading this thinking I must be the most selfish person in Catanzaro (I mean, I feel that way even writing this.) I certainly don't mean to JUDGE family ties or loyalties. But, I don't know many siblings back home who would or have made the same sacrifices for their families. And, I am not sure what I think about this.

On one hand, it is an overtly selfless act. What could be more noble than helping a sibling in need...sacrificing your own pleasure for another person?

But, where is the expectation coming from? Is it personal pressure to help...does it come from Mom or Dad...or is it requested by the sibling himself? In a region as barren as Calabria, how can a person, not only make ends meet, but actually get ahead?

That is the question on my mind...