tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39048535487882194502024-03-13T06:54:00.053-07:00Bella ItaliaThis blog documents my time in Italy. It covers my studies in July and August of 2008, my trip in December and January of 2009/2010, and a month spent in Northern Italy in July of 2010.Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-54456878596706226002010-07-18T03:40:00.000-07:002010-07-18T05:41:59.347-07:00Hiking to Bergolo<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfHPAY-YIU33o5wU-eWI5sDkuVml63y2_KD5QNlwX6RFVxDZzXB8pHVMgj-r2-892viJtWe9KfoSbzh-zfqvnsmJIT74Kv6Yumzqxdb0CdsQjKiScJhaNFjg83xpTa0lm7Xrx1AwuLxtA/s1600/IMG_3573.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfHPAY-YIU33o5wU-eWI5sDkuVml63y2_KD5QNlwX6RFVxDZzXB8pHVMgj-r2-892viJtWe9KfoSbzh-zfqvnsmJIT74Kv6Yumzqxdb0CdsQjKiScJhaNFjg83xpTa0lm7Xrx1AwuLxtA/s400/IMG_3573.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495195352846338610" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My parents discovered Cortemillia long before I took my first trip here two years ago. My mother has always been an expert at finding small, unique places to stay that promise an experience like no other. I still recall the phone call I received years ago from them. They were raving about a hike they took that brought them to the top of the Piemonte countryside where they found a small, beautiful town. Soon after arriving, in search of a place to dine, they overheard what sounded like a family eating their afternoon lunch. They were spotted by a member of the family who immediately insisted on opening the restaurant so the two of them could eat. It’s a story I’ve heard many times and always been captivated by. I inquired with Carlo and planned to take the same hike early Friday morning. I put my hiking pants on, grabbed some waters, and filled my backpack with a mini snack pack- braesola, pane, an apricot and some hazelnut cake. Directions in hand, I set off through Cortemillia. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOTSR3NL0GGsdGkTZaJ4I_HxUQHp8fOqjNqscbBuefTmQthtXm5kG-_AZjM8TbFzcuURPEeIFNhVMtZKGYy9FgjgqdGg_VGzkIuMU61WY9KK3cIafgIPYKzPm4WxQcoamGaGwTvaGqEQ/s1600/IMG_3571.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBOTSR3NL0GGsdGkTZaJ4I_HxUQHp8fOqjNqscbBuefTmQthtXm5kG-_AZjM8TbFzcuURPEeIFNhVMtZKGYy9FgjgqdGg_VGzkIuMU61WY9KK3cIafgIPYKzPm4WxQcoamGaGwTvaGqEQ/s400/IMG_3571.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495195648006400642" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It was an uphill walk through an unfamiliar part of the town and I was enchanted by the backyards of the locals, filled with fruit trees and clucking chickens. It wasn’t long before I reached the path I would remain on for the rest of my journey, Via dei Feudi Carretteschi. The path was ancient and had been used for centuries and you could still see some of the remaining stones from the original road. After a short distance, I turned to see all of Cortemillia laid out in front of me surrounded by the picturesque Piemonte. The path was tough, rocky and unstable but I kept a swift pace up the constant incline. It was tiring but I was exhilarated by the thought of reaching the topped and pushed myself into action. I continued on with the directions, stopping whenever instructed, to account for my surroundings. The hike was about 2 hours of steady climbing through the woods. I knew I was close when the trees began thinning and the landscape morphed into high untamed grass with only a small dirt path to follow in between. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXYZ5vyPLEqu2Y3Gmcf-PRHHOacjEvrbJEwYWP-xqj3cv5Mg7_eTbwHoegfoJIFa6o5h4s0AMKlOr0P6WwmPbTdcNDTBhtlmj5SMFMaivGVY6C-ZoYFwT0dWv293MAc6I52JTA_ptdU3w/s1600/IMG_3596.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXYZ5vyPLEqu2Y3Gmcf-PRHHOacjEvrbJEwYWP-xqj3cv5Mg7_eTbwHoegfoJIFa6o5h4s0AMKlOr0P6WwmPbTdcNDTBhtlmj5SMFMaivGVY6C-ZoYFwT0dWv293MAc6I52JTA_ptdU3w/s400/IMG_3596.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495196359767118242" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The trees cleared and I was at the top of a ridge, surrounded on all sides by the landscape. Just as the directions had promised, it was as if the universe was at my feet! I took in the views, amazed and proud of the feat I had just conquered. I headed to the church located straight ahead which loomed over the small town of Bergolo. Since it was still early, I sat down on a bench to relax and enjoy my snack while taking in the magnificent views. I studied some Italian and reviewed a few of the historical facts of Bergolo. It is an ancient village made of stone and has for years been home to an art festival that takes place annually. Because of this, the city is filled with art; there are murals on the walls of buildings and sculptures throughout. I took a small tour around the closed church, admiring the beauty and simplicity of the building.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_yU7mYGrggUdxMg8DKglgmNQTGcjcRG0XmpWj7lS2_GmWUwnTdVms6gX42U8Lgru-I2CTmENJPZnhuSZtw1aQxfgtAXCwb5ItTXZAi1mA0pcqYAwW0toMra_LY872yawKMV2mbceo4U/s1600/IMG_3603.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_yU7mYGrggUdxMg8DKglgmNQTGcjcRG0XmpWj7lS2_GmWUwnTdVms6gX42U8Lgru-I2CTmENJPZnhuSZtw1aQxfgtAXCwb5ItTXZAi1mA0pcqYAwW0toMra_LY872yawKMV2mbceo4U/s400/IMG_3603.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495196623783484818" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I finally made it!!!</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Having successfully killed enough time, I headed down into town in the hopes of finding the restaurant my parents had reminisced about time and time again. The city was beautiful and quaint, and the artwork gave it a truly unique flair. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5keoeOcoqK2cxUgHpp26-CV8myBsb1yrkdEpkza2sgC34Y9erD7Fvwv_nIDq2IfDpx19_w0UOlHdu6hxiu5DmZNMi5-QWNosjzHsr0sWMq6-ojA_fUoptLcfGMvK-5nVoEQqa8xWo_ro/s1600/IMG_3625.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5keoeOcoqK2cxUgHpp26-CV8myBsb1yrkdEpkza2sgC34Y9erD7Fvwv_nIDq2IfDpx19_w0UOlHdu6hxiu5DmZNMi5-QWNosjzHsr0sWMq6-ojA_fUoptLcfGMvK-5nVoEQqa8xWo_ro/s400/IMG_3625.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495196958890552690" /></a>Everywhere you looked there were colorful paintings, wacky statues or bright flowers. I came to the main square and wandered into a building with a sign for the restaurant. I encountered an elderly woman, who was surely the grandmother of the family, headed down into the kitchen. She told me the restaurant would be open in another 20 minutes and I returned to the piazza, retiring to a bench in the shade. I settled there with my Kindle although I was mostly observing the comings and goings of the townspeople. I watched a woman come out the door of the restaurant, light her cigarette and walk across the square through an arched entryway. She came out minutes later with a handful of fresh picked basil and I knew I was in for a delicious lunch.</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDenKXhLySDQijsM0aTKdkPn_HpkCLKRoKzfMwOTVHU3qhVjf5mR0qLZ77N2bEiCSXRuuIcu7yDuuPt7CtRjL0XdKw-B0OJGIhHpIEgQnERoHToTyXzIldHcYnmJMvtHCauo6z7U_L6V8/s1600/IMG_3629.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDenKXhLySDQijsM0aTKdkPn_HpkCLKRoKzfMwOTVHU3qhVjf5mR0qLZ77N2bEiCSXRuuIcu7yDuuPt7CtRjL0XdKw-B0OJGIhHpIEgQnERoHToTyXzIldHcYnmJMvtHCauo6z7U_L6V8/s400/IMG_3629.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495197194563777666" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> When the time came I went back to the restaurant and headed down into the cool dining room that was flooded with light from the windows overlooking the vast valley below. A man greeted me and after hearing my Italian, he immediately switched over to impeccable English. He brought me a much needed bottle of ice cold water and told me about the wine list; there were no glasses served at the restaurant, only bottles and half bottles. Knowingly using unwise judgment, I ordered a half bottle of Nebbiola; there was no way I was eating a pristine lunch without wine! The server then introduced me to the menu, explaining that they usually served the 3 antipasto plates along with a secondi of my choosing. As a lover of both restaurant traditions and sizable amounts of food, I followed his suggestion, choosing to follow my antipasto up with agnolotti al plin. The first of three antipasti was called Rotondino but was really just the traditional thin slices of veal served with a tuna mayonnaise sauce. This was by far my favorite variation yet, as the sauce lacked the slimy quality of mayonnaise and had a mild flavor that complemented the veal perfectly.<br /><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_w5fHqSgZLS2toj6XExx3A2lxyMJ8iwX8aWwq5C9UrAomhKe8VHWgrIKHTJ7xTHE8yBF81LL8obC2upOEP4tGJOK5Vx7vKzA-EVKGrIVHyfYLWQ1MzP8ZDrlHdNxA2LxN1oxwK7Ei50g/s1600/IMG_3649.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_w5fHqSgZLS2toj6XExx3A2lxyMJ8iwX8aWwq5C9UrAomhKe8VHWgrIKHTJ7xTHE8yBF81LL8obC2upOEP4tGJOK5Vx7vKzA-EVKGrIVHyfYLWQ1MzP8ZDrlHdNxA2LxN1oxwK7Ei50g/s400/IMG_3649.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495199344629401602" /></a><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia;font-size:small;">Yummm</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia;font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It was served with a little bowl of anchovies swimming in an oil based parsley pesto. I munched contentedly, spreading the anchovies and pesto onto bread. My plate was cleared and my next course arrived, stuffed zucchini flowers. The flowers were fried perfectly and were lightly doused with a bright green pea sauce. I cut into one of the flowers, delighted to find it stuffed full of ricotta cheese and ground meat. I cleaned the plate, soaking up every bit of sauce with my last bite. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBhF1cu-PrUqScoCOEdqkdFgTFd-mAJhhy-j1H3w75iz4Whcyx64Io7Cyl9UYb685gSFiiExHaen5oUB5KPWTFCzYcjnhyphenhyphen7keHOL6yHnWvzCClBfd2ZC9KQniXh5VsWkp2KPxiuBISBM/s1600/IMG_3658.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBhF1cu-PrUqScoCOEdqkdFgTFd-mAJhhy-j1H3w75iz4Whcyx64Io7Cyl9UYb685gSFiiExHaen5oUB5KPWTFCzYcjnhyphenhyphen7keHOL6yHnWvzCClBfd2ZC9KQniXh5VsWkp2KPxiuBISBM/s400/IMG_3658.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495197349363507362" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The third antipasti arrived and I dug in. In a small ramekin, there was a flawlessly cooked egg topped with parsley and coarse sea salt. I dove in with my spoon and was thrilled to find a dense layer of porcini mushrooms hidden underneath the egg. YUM! I enjoyed my agnolotti slowly, eating each pinched ravioli on its own, savoring the buttery sage flavor that melded with the piquant filling which burst forth when I bit into the pasta. As I reveled in the blissful meal I had just enjoyed, I finished the last drops of wine and gulped down an espresso, matching each sip with a large swallow of water to ensure my survival on my return trip. I left the restaurant and stopped to fill up my bottles with water from a flowing fountain in the street. I saw a cute little cat and couldn’t help but try to tame him; the cats in Italy have been constantly resisting my advances! Of course, he skittered away before I could get near him, but I pulled out my secret weapon- leftover braesola! </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizVageSkWaFwM0-Z8tEYI9DvfT9cWb6BQmAqDkLPO8aBKKy5w2QPO6Tr3r7MIyDK1AfJUGqqcctpB6o1yqryT1s3XJwK-ogyyxhxyr4yfE1VG4mD_0EMKtUn_45Ie65UrNp2PJDdt_o10/s1600/IMG_3645.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizVageSkWaFwM0-Z8tEYI9DvfT9cWb6BQmAqDkLPO8aBKKy5w2QPO6Tr3r7MIyDK1AfJUGqqcctpB6o1yqryT1s3XJwK-ogyyxhxyr4yfE1VG4mD_0EMKtUn_45Ie65UrNp2PJDdt_o10/s400/IMG_3645.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495198765794620834" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It wasn’t long before I had corralled in a crowd of hungry kitties, 4 or 5 of them, eager to get a bite of the meat. I was overwhelmed with a sense of self-awareness, at that moment in time I WAS the creepy cat lady, but I couldn’t resist a little loving from my feline friends. I set off along the route I came, determined to make it back in time for a siesta before the night’s cooking. The going was a lot easier on the return as it was mostly downhill, but it was also treacherous. I happen to have very weak ankles and I am no stranger to rolling and spraining, so I made my way gingerly down the rocky path. Even at my cautious pace, I made it back to Cortemillia in an hour in a half. I guzzled some water, showered off the gallons of sweat coating my body, and hopped into bed for siesta.<br /><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Pictures top to bottom:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The path up</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">"Via dei Feudi Carretteschi"</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Reaching the end!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Me at the top</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">View of Bergolo from the church</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Inside Bergolo<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Rotondino</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Meow :)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Bella fiore</span></span></div><div><br /></div></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiME2ipd2AnJgp_ig0YFpw3pLKMaGS2cH54E2N_zpAid7JrmzXuhsjnD4Yj-4aC4O-rS_qOWm8seV1uyqHCTDJdxprfPXBY7gajoT8vjLbJft92YrFBoQc1GF8VQ-lKsTc0AnTFP8FlPHI/s1600/IMG_3608.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiME2ipd2AnJgp_ig0YFpw3pLKMaGS2cH54E2N_zpAid7JrmzXuhsjnD4Yj-4aC4O-rS_qOWm8seV1uyqHCTDJdxprfPXBY7gajoT8vjLbJft92YrFBoQc1GF8VQ-lKsTc0AnTFP8FlPHI/s400/IMG_3608.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495220339319244850" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">View from the top; my horrible distance camera does it no justice!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDsyZpDY_QAfP0q0plgrU8RyFwSiu5sgHSW41m9qzYJQOC_kmcnB2FQ0eQgWe6HojHr_aNKy3JSYgm-9rXD9aZ4o6PkNvFpaiNsydpevNfyNuhVn2VQ9-0aJs7JeLaILjZsK6Vt5brC0/s1600/IMG_3611.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDsyZpDY_QAfP0q0plgrU8RyFwSiu5sgHSW41m9qzYJQOC_kmcnB2FQ0eQgWe6HojHr_aNKy3JSYgm-9rXD9aZ4o6PkNvFpaiNsydpevNfyNuhVn2VQ9-0aJs7JeLaILjZsK6Vt5brC0/s400/IMG_3611.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495220068189928866" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Bergolo</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir45aXo3TJ6RtIQFwjUrnk5N1CPDU1ajijDoVjbgxtUJhJ8ixH35LhQCyWDBJcYHpquIaSu2uIQXb4qKSGK1fy8FCqW1vrZb57dL_dAIizDGhCwGQ2XyNtg8Vo1eA8EGqOKwI3rUtdaTI/s1600/IMG_3620.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir45aXo3TJ6RtIQFwjUrnk5N1CPDU1ajijDoVjbgxtUJhJ8ixH35LhQCyWDBJcYHpquIaSu2uIQXb4qKSGK1fy8FCqW1vrZb57dL_dAIizDGhCwGQ2XyNtg8Vo1eA8EGqOKwI3rUtdaTI/s400/IMG_3620.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495219875559535234" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">The church</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2wlhuTV_xouWXr2G16N-EkJxjeSf0MTBWw8V_FoypChR4rowIlyF68pNaD8D1gshMnJPA1bhpR8Sp36BUDkOE5KKe7X8m5EzTI7VH_a4wreA317gowVRLLC2FwR3zuuNFX5j3pwDiLSc/s1600/IMG_3632.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2wlhuTV_xouWXr2G16N-EkJxjeSf0MTBWw8V_FoypChR4rowIlyF68pNaD8D1gshMnJPA1bhpR8Sp36BUDkOE5KKe7X8m5EzTI7VH_a4wreA317gowVRLLC2FwR3zuuNFX5j3pwDiLSc/s400/IMG_3632.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495219687740503330" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">The police station</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZD-IOEeXYtos8q0iMcgs_Nq4gZlJrM0fBSXft9iAWGGif64Nm5rOjgKAG8aBAmkS1N3oHVEWCbkkpcR0rvUeHV3OvTZP_Urfu4Y-cxsB5uJa2sTep9DMtOhYiYpLG_obvrbbt1Xckw5k/s1600/IMG_3636.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZD-IOEeXYtos8q0iMcgs_Nq4gZlJrM0fBSXft9iAWGGif64Nm5rOjgKAG8aBAmkS1N3oHVEWCbkkpcR0rvUeHV3OvTZP_Urfu4Y-cxsB5uJa2sTep9DMtOhYiYpLG_obvrbbt1Xckw5k/s400/IMG_3636.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495219339443345010" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Artwork at the top</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguI0iLxZAR9IJpM24wFxgVxj3kzmjl_a6LWnp4i3LyCARYavvBCoyBjYwVg3KHmBJGH7yK4ELh-Vn9-m3MSDfznemH6R4MbsAjB4djkjxqpIJGkiirNebul7RWq7LUl2g9dPeqxgZo9N4/s1600/IMG_3641.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguI0iLxZAR9IJpM24wFxgVxj3kzmjl_a6LWnp4i3LyCARYavvBCoyBjYwVg3KHmBJGH7yK4ELh-Vn9-m3MSDfznemH6R4MbsAjB4djkjxqpIJGkiirNebul7RWq7LUl2g9dPeqxgZo9N4/s400/IMG_3641.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495219149048471602" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">My favorite painting; it took my breath away!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBtThFeSBWro1dvjrREIVLRFB7Xu5jH7I7CrRFfd9YPOiJf08uYfgWVLP936YUC6cLoVhN2MlTf4AWJbEoCT3csv50qYd8vvCWH4qMLvxtaBq0VeU-dfdU7lkoaPUhJZuXCrHnn85-HsY/s1600/IMG_3651.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBtThFeSBWro1dvjrREIVLRFB7Xu5jH7I7CrRFfd9YPOiJf08uYfgWVLP936YUC6cLoVhN2MlTf4AWJbEoCT3csv50qYd8vvCWH4qMLvxtaBq0VeU-dfdU7lkoaPUhJZuXCrHnn85-HsY/s400/IMG_3651.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495218776467783714" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Stuffed zucchini flowers!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagD2iS2aKxbCgsmXbQhd8n3X-SS-1D207WiBdhfP3uZzRHUUSyd3J0ViXRQZpoRg9XRg8-wOah_IeDCBMshp2GjxwWDZA4TE4SioFB3mbHjfprRtoKhkZEcZBhLp5txG29nU03OMFZNg/s1600/IMG_3654.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagD2iS2aKxbCgsmXbQhd8n3X-SS-1D207WiBdhfP3uZzRHUUSyd3J0ViXRQZpoRg9XRg8-wOah_IeDCBMshp2GjxwWDZA4TE4SioFB3mbHjfprRtoKhkZEcZBhLp5txG29nU03OMFZNg/s400/IMG_3654.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495218443029182290" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Egg with porcini</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbn94WENA88HtP5qaRJfQBsr7KOQOyQCsHRPQkVlXnh_0Sr8GOLTgEHtqR-q8q9NwqWZl_vh1nBOM66vPP0kZKB3RIJyRBUR_dUBtPDzQ9dZgZtaViQdhO5NyqQb_OW4hCbNtCuoa8mJw/s1600/IMG_3668.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbn94WENA88HtP5qaRJfQBsr7KOQOyQCsHRPQkVlXnh_0Sr8GOLTgEHtqR-q8q9NwqWZl_vh1nBOM66vPP0kZKB3RIJyRBUR_dUBtPDzQ9dZgZtaViQdhO5NyqQb_OW4hCbNtCuoa8mJw/s400/IMG_3668.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495218310423222914" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*** Don't forget you can click to enlarge any picture!!</span></div>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-47427930118071611882010-07-18T03:04:00.000-07:002010-07-18T03:40:08.364-07:00Daily life in Cortemillia<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-ClLUNy1_nx8KB5o6STc5tx8g4tJ6ruOvyiO0HAbPcjwMtJvUWynwBqoigqdgLLqPzqdnmNS_UWFIPtZgZmUmIisH5rIW8i05HGd5kTs95NAuapcLCM-dY3UjE94bVek6Yye5UZ8l3g/s1600/IMG_3456.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-ClLUNy1_nx8KB5o6STc5tx8g4tJ6ruOvyiO0HAbPcjwMtJvUWynwBqoigqdgLLqPzqdnmNS_UWFIPtZgZmUmIisH5rIW8i05HGd5kTs95NAuapcLCM-dY3UjE94bVek6Yye5UZ8l3g/s400/IMG_3456.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495186682019641490" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I spent the past week staying close and enjoying my time in Cortemillia. When I am not traveling I stay at the hotel and I spend my time leisurely. I’ve been enjoying plenty of time in the pool, going on long bike rides, and of course putting in plenty of hours in the kitchen. I have also taken the opportunity to work on my Italian! I discovered an app for my Itouch which has improved my comprehension skills and given me the ability to communicate in Italian, even at a minute level. Titled the Michael Thomas method it is easily available for download from Itunes and offers lessons in Spanish, French, German and Italian. The method is so great because it teaches you an understanding of the language on a deeper level. I am learning to translate my English thoughts into Italian, rather than just memorizing vocabulary words and trying to retain all of the regular and irregular verb forms. Instead of trying to find the words to express my thoughts, I’m able to say exactly what I want in a manner that people actually comprehend. It is very exciting! While I haven’t become adept at communicating in lengthy conversations, I am able to understand most Italian discussions to a point and have managed to pickup on most kitchen lingo. Instead of standing there like an idiot while Carlo barks out orders, I jump into action to help or move out of the way when I know I cannot be of use.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44Aa_HvU3zRH-_2PJaRSSoO4te1fOdceeNsgVkX2vbfOpYnnd1ti884fwkJT4VA8bfU78WbM_f7HcNh61WBzOot8lweEOvztAbP-HL-_nqCjubwJZR1NcdeYSTpoq8K0nI9HRMiOcgOA/s1600/IMG_3395.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44Aa_HvU3zRH-_2PJaRSSoO4te1fOdceeNsgVkX2vbfOpYnnd1ti884fwkJT4VA8bfU78WbM_f7HcNh61WBzOot8lweEOvztAbP-HL-_nqCjubwJZR1NcdeYSTpoq8K0nI9HRMiOcgOA/s400/IMG_3395.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495185450840877410" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">On Monday night we left Cortemillia and traveled to Savona for a special family dinner. It was Carlo and Poala’s 13th anniversary and we dined at a superb seafood restaurant to celebrate. We were seated on a beautiful porch directly on the beach where the sun was still shining. I was relieved that the weather was much cooler, likely because of the light sea breeze. We watched the sun set as we admired the view and had our usual Italian English dinner conversation.By Carlo’s recommendation I first ordered the pesce crudo plate, a gigantic plate full of fresh, raw seafood. For my second course, I went out on a limb and ordered a dish whose description I only halfway understood. I had no doubts, I knew it had to be good! The waiter brought over a cool bottle of Chardonnay and poured glasses for all of us, even Ricky who is only 12. It is the Italian way to give young children little sips of alcohol here and there so they become educated and aren’t ignorantly attempting to consume everything in sight when they reach the proper age. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzfBSq8_teAb24IIXzCtpmWpL_Q02Thxv96MzFPRvsYpDLCfBRQxMDU1F1YxRTPo2kv02U5RWffhh08DLwBz_5RfG840p-XGR0u7bfnQ8H2AjWhrhyphenhyphensVQx3y25JEs12QRC0aZK7mpvaQ/s1600/IMG_3402.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzfBSq8_teAb24IIXzCtpmWpL_Q02Thxv96MzFPRvsYpDLCfBRQxMDU1F1YxRTPo2kv02U5RWffhh08DLwBz_5RfG840p-XGR0u7bfnQ8H2AjWhrhyphenhyphensVQx3y25JEs12QRC0aZK7mpvaQ/s400/IMG_3402.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495185772388824194" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> It is a practice I admire and respect as I grew up the same way and as a result I have always been more responsible when it comes to drinking than my peers. The meal began as small plates of anchovies drizzled with olive oil were set in front of us. I have a natural adverseness to anchovies, as their flavor is more often than not overwhelming. Here in Italy though, it is a very different story. The fresh anchovies don’t taste incredibly fishy, rather they have a fresh sea-like taste with a hint of mild characteristic anchovy flavor. It was the perfect start to munch on along with a few breadsticks. Our plates were swept away and in their place, our pesce crudo was placed. The dish was absolutely beautiful. It contained sea bass, tuna, shrimp, langostine and sea urchin, all fished straight from the sea and delivered to our table. Drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkling of pepper, the seafood was left to display its true, delicious flavor.</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPyBBB8lCHttHNFhXm-X1LujpSGNK0076LgFHvcLQBxrYzRxJ-BNT2bQtxFGp58v4Qk9D47IPpI41YPqVd5w69ovi9J__4di9VMhEuANNQL4u-1rbVxsvwsd8Z349xGYrLtfChlycyTY/s1600/IMG_3405.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPyBBB8lCHttHNFhXm-X1LujpSGNK0076LgFHvcLQBxrYzRxJ-BNT2bQtxFGp58v4Qk9D47IPpI41YPqVd5w69ovi9J__4di9VMhEuANNQL4u-1rbVxsvwsd8Z349xGYrLtfChlycyTY/s400/IMG_3405.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495186044926838882" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> The spines of the sea urchins danced the entire time we ate, and I flipped mine over to stare, fascinated by the idea that the thing I was eating was still alive. Paola got squeamish and refused to eat the urchin! There were also fresh capers on the plate, an absolute favorite of mine and quite a treat as I don’t often get the chance to eat them. I took my time eating, making my way slowly around the platter and savoring each bite. We took the period in between courses as a pause to salute and celebrate Carlo and Paola’s 13 years of marriage. Just as the sun fell below the horizon, our main courses were delivered. My dish was a spicy spaghetti with chopped pieces of a sea snail whose texture faintly reminded me of conch which I ate so much of years ago in Abaco. It was served with small, tender slices of zucchini only found in the region, and a sprinkling of parsley. I slurped up my whole plate and sampled some of Carlos saffron infused risotto. We sat in the candlelight, sipping the last of our wine and laughing at the never ending wait for our check which had already been requested multiple times, a typical Italian trend. We left Savona in high spirits and began the journey home. We stopped in a town nearby to Cortemillia to get ice cream at a gelateria owned by a friend of Carlo’s and headed back to the hotel, arriving just before midnight.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQkFGJ2EZFZEMQyeu2Bf4kEd9YteV9M3gfSDM8D6gDyJtsqf1RXOSJOaNbiQjiwgWdj_V5hQdvFZTg8d7rz_c_Tej-QYfeYhC-wFsilJu_Oz1yttcvhKh9-7T6enPwMqZl_4HEdTza40/s1600/IMG_3441.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQkFGJ2EZFZEMQyeu2Bf4kEd9YteV9M3gfSDM8D6gDyJtsqf1RXOSJOaNbiQjiwgWdj_V5hQdvFZTg8d7rz_c_Tej-QYfeYhC-wFsilJu_Oz1yttcvhKh9-7T6enPwMqZl_4HEdTza40/s400/IMG_3441.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495186458445297922" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I spent plenty of time in the kitchen this week. I learned to make “ravioli al plin” which means it is pinched- you’ll see the method on pictures! The ravioli is stuffed with a ricotta cheese and spinach mixture and its piped onto the pasta. Then you fold it over, pinch it into sections and cut it with a nifty ravioli cutter (which I already purchased). We also made picollili, which is similar to gnocchi. The main difference is the size and shape. It’s a bit longer than gnocchi, and has hazelnuts rolled into the dough. Carlo serves this in the restaurant with a take on butter and sage sauce topped with hazelnuts, yum! Otherwise, I have been spending time with the girls who work here and Carlo, Paola and Ricky. When nights end early in the kitchen, us five girls usually sit out on the porch in the cool evening air and enjoy some birra or mojitos while Paola and Elena smoke cigarettes. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEittP4oAXb_mxtW12Wg4FPknmQhDdAZjYL-p0DygWsB4r1UaSVXI0uh3pPaq1qSMK2YJ_gvxCNBHXjHziguQTuhlsKGtx09r4D3QLTFk4G86FSx0HLSlz34itwUWtSPEfQFV527voqYOr0/s1600/IMG_3440.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEittP4oAXb_mxtW12Wg4FPknmQhDdAZjYL-p0DygWsB4r1UaSVXI0uh3pPaq1qSMK2YJ_gvxCNBHXjHziguQTuhlsKGtx09r4D3QLTFk4G86FSx0HLSlz34itwUWtSPEfQFV527voqYOr0/s400/IMG_3440.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495186266992603554" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The girls gossip about normal things, shopping and their children. I usually just relax with my drink and listen in on conversation, trying to store in my memory the words I don’t recognize so I can look them up later. Every once in a while, Ricky and I take trips together, going on bike rides, or getting gelato down the street. It is refreshing to have a routine; every day I wake up and help myself to breakfast then relax in the lobby, checking up on my emails and such and socializing with the Zarri's. We eat a simple lunch together everyday, usually salad which is sometimes accompanied by special treats like mozzarella di bufala from Naples or smoked salmon from Norway. In the afternoons I take a bike ride or go for a swim and then spend a couple of hours in my room, reading, studying Italian, or taking a nap. I'm always ready for dinner at 6:30 where I cook something simple or on busier nights, scarf down whatever I can. When the cooking is finished, I clean up as the girls finish their duties- clearing the tables and doing dishes while Marlene prepares breakfast for the following morning. On earlier evenings, we enjoy our cocktails and gossip, but on the nights when the kitchen duties go on all night, we head our separate ways. Such is life in Cortemillia- relaxed and simple. </span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Images top to bottom:<br />Il gatto relaxing on the porch of the hotel<br />The drive to Savona<br />Our beautiful table on the beach<br />Pesce crudo<br />"al plin" - pinching the ravioli<br />Cutting the ravioli</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGbc2CNXhyphenhyphend9h6zmSDwWtpq-uF2RtdI1KMi5HqTlCTru-bzfljN7FCKWv5PCS7JCgu4boUR8kxq0h2dwR27XexME6wEBrEFSHX_G5g72SjaDndjN_5CayvaqvozIQ5yziis84sPiiE1o/s1600/IMG_3400.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGbc2CNXhyphenhyphend9h6zmSDwWtpq-uF2RtdI1KMi5HqTlCTru-bzfljN7FCKWv5PCS7JCgu4boUR8kxq0h2dwR27XexME6wEBrEFSHX_G5g72SjaDndjN_5CayvaqvozIQ5yziis84sPiiE1o/s400/IMG_3400.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495192836135956418" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">View from our table</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL599N97-Qe6U7158YLTtwNCItwjlVdKlxdXxCG5UiBwi4HTzgsM_xcB4ZN_c0y0giPoVdfXwxn7GTtESPth5EaXRuUe7ud91OctAvWJPxqmH6bzKCbo2C41msqmvh0hw6IWC8H5ZVZnU/s1600/IMG_3413.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL599N97-Qe6U7158YLTtwNCItwjlVdKlxdXxCG5UiBwi4HTzgsM_xcB4ZN_c0y0giPoVdfXwxn7GTtESPth5EaXRuUe7ud91OctAvWJPxqmH6bzKCbo2C41msqmvh0hw6IWC8H5ZVZnU/s400/IMG_3413.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495192461120723746" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The Zarri family :)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdL7GmX3X8M3oikVzotb6_HxKRzAqd5LWU4iGIx4KqTYmRDfuVt3sG1H7EoWMS2Yq3zGwbNGYIiET_mOfse2sQZoEbry_g2dRUqPfykogRIQrtUKtVB96g0mYIu0eISv-Hv6zZEXQO1gY/s1600/IMG_3452.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdL7GmX3X8M3oikVzotb6_HxKRzAqd5LWU4iGIx4KqTYmRDfuVt3sG1H7EoWMS2Yq3zGwbNGYIiET_mOfse2sQZoEbry_g2dRUqPfykogRIQrtUKtVB96g0mYIu0eISv-Hv6zZEXQO1gY/s400/IMG_3452.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495192246835034482" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Lasagnette drying- ready for cutting!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZsf_x5mBWNq4qe_DJ3bnzuTwCDYckrUko1ZaPhZxjKivgE4mr5exhNRaAiigmYcmlT7_Zbv9bOo4W0QugijVdIKZEYrNmjKwhseNeFy1YBsdLI-pVAU-F9QTx2v96AanQTg-VUuWu-g/s1600/IMG_3552.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrZsf_x5mBWNq4qe_DJ3bnzuTwCDYckrUko1ZaPhZxjKivgE4mr5exhNRaAiigmYcmlT7_Zbv9bOo4W0QugijVdIKZEYrNmjKwhseNeFy1YBsdLI-pVAU-F9QTx2v96AanQTg-VUuWu-g/s400/IMG_3552.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495192043088117794" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Elena, one of the servers, making our mojitos!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBtiRVIt1hR23u4pCVe8YRnmLuqZ4PHsm-aZPed-oLw0SqYYPqTcJ9lgA0MdHt1ip95I8fyF9qWMfM00PsoDU9pP_mQwY8sKFS6ENGSxTUOdnQFUKlDYmmPKzSecOaigw_612fxTIxQc/s1600/IMG_3556.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBtiRVIt1hR23u4pCVe8YRnmLuqZ4PHsm-aZPed-oLw0SqYYPqTcJ9lgA0MdHt1ip95I8fyF9qWMfM00PsoDU9pP_mQwY8sKFS6ENGSxTUOdnQFUKlDYmmPKzSecOaigw_612fxTIxQc/s400/IMG_3556.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495191845431415682" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Mojitos made right- that's rum and cognac, topped with a little tonic water post photo</span></span></div>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-43004706881672542732010-07-14T05:01:00.000-07:002010-07-14T05:29:26.283-07:00A Day in Alba<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRUn-7j0xsrPqUBBojjRlZEOGRsXhm6aCLBQq_cJTvXfIGYSqwNQmnfZfYl6vMrsQ7A7fwTq6BmPCltlG6br9IGoCb6P3P2YeX39qJzsMaIZOYIOFealmaxDf6XzcN1A9ZYPlcCpv1aS8/s1600/IMG_3303.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRUn-7j0xsrPqUBBojjRlZEOGRsXhm6aCLBQq_cJTvXfIGYSqwNQmnfZfYl6vMrsQ7A7fwTq6BmPCltlG6br9IGoCb6P3P2YeX39qJzsMaIZOYIOFealmaxDf6XzcN1A9ZYPlcCpv1aS8/s400/IMG_3303.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493731180791407410" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Saturday morning I was headed to Alba. Paola gave me a ride to the train station although it is a short walk; I have learned it is hopeless to argue with the Zarri’s when it comes to their generosity so at this point, I simply accept. I got on on the bus and paid 2.50 euro for a ticket. It was empty and I seated myself in the middle of the bus right next to a window to take advantage of the views. A few more people got on the bus and we were off, right on time! The drive was short, only about 45 minutes, and it had the luxury of air conditioning so frankly I wasn’t in a hurry to get off. As we pulled into the city, I paid close attention to where we were going so that I could find the bus station later. I got off the bus, not sure which way to head but I used the method that never fails, following the crowds towards the center of the city. Soon, I came across the tents signifying market day. It was one of the biggest markets I had ever been to and I had plenty to look at. The city of Alba has an organized market, clustering their tents in piazzas and open areas rather than in the streets. With so many options, I couldn’t help but make some purchases. I got a Bialetti stovetop espresso maker for two, something I have been needing for a long time!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRBbFWKiPAZvMpFS05RRTGH4WLn3euaLt4OX74Iz3ZrD7MOwi5crMJLrzKF92Yhh8jWv3cZ7bPDrGfEukj6WrJ7_lG1ViUnpE7X4WQ_h3e8p67sZtN-ixqI3-UQwIVDo7ebnPzxcZndo/s1600/IMG_3305.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRBbFWKiPAZvMpFS05RRTGH4WLn3euaLt4OX74Iz3ZrD7MOwi5crMJLrzKF92Yhh8jWv3cZ7bPDrGfEukj6WrJ7_lG1ViUnpE7X4WQ_h3e8p67sZtN-ixqI3-UQwIVDo7ebnPzxcZndo/s400/IMG_3305.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493731406741434546" /></a> While meandering along, I did some window shopping and stopped at a jewelry shop to admire the glinting silver and gold. My eye was immediately drawn to a collection of colorful watches. I gave into the temptation and went inside to try one on. You see I have a problem which I wasn’t even aware of until I got to Italy- I am completely dependent on my cell phone for telling time. As it is always attached to me or at least close by, it is what I always look to. Because I don’t have it in Italy, I am constantly unaware of the hour, especially when traveling. The saleswoman showed me how you could change the bands, choosing from a vast array of colors, and easily adjust them so that it can be worn loose or tight around your wrist. I had to buy it, in bright pink of course, and I purchased a modest white band to accompany it for my less adventurous outfits. I stopped once more in a kitchen shop whose diverse window display drew me in. Walking through the aisles, I resisted the urge to touch everything as the signs in front of my face yelled “DO NOT TOUCH!” I bought a set with 2 espresso cups, plates and a sugar bowl, all hand-painted in pastel pinks and greens. I exited the store happy with my purchases but resolute in not spending any more money! I wandered a bit more, exploring side streets and losing all sense of direction. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5jDTRwQJuSaDE-ueNWBPDQf26PwFdPRlJhH5q5FEF39o7yMuQTQeYDdPS7zWaCkU_j9d1h7YLwrRkAhuVu1l5B-5h_dGWhgVrdUUqFtQNl11oOM0dWpKQXt7EZpstsas1oOUFAvSHv4/s1600/IMG_3309.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5jDTRwQJuSaDE-ueNWBPDQf26PwFdPRlJhH5q5FEF39o7yMuQTQeYDdPS7zWaCkU_j9d1h7YLwrRkAhuVu1l5B-5h_dGWhgVrdUUqFtQNl11oOM0dWpKQXt7EZpstsas1oOUFAvSHv4/s400/IMG_3309.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493731687047911874" /></a>I stopped in a truffle store to try to complete my mission given to me by my father- to find a truffle paste whose ingredients are 99% truffle. Unfortunately, the store did not have anything near as potent, but I got to taste many of the different pastes and I left thinking that my mission although near impossible, was not so bad. I arrived at the center square and chose a little bar to eat at, opting to sit in the center of the piazza underneath a large, white umbrella. I ordered a special gin drink with orange and grapefruit juice and enjoyed fresh pasta with mushrooms and a side of tender cooked artichokes. I took my time eating, basking in the shade and taking advantage of the opportunity to people watch, never a boring thing in Italy. After paying my bill, I had to get my bearings and find the train station. Surprisingly, I did so quite easily and impressed myself. I am unlucky enough to have a terrible sense of direction but happily I have not yet gotten lost in Italy. I boarded the bus with pleasure, reveling in the cold air blasting onto my face.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkSXF3O7aQkegyXB4RHYxVy19bJnx7THX30R6XConTaplWBWK4aPs2p4hGUQq6GcwSl8mJlH7-ysPDFZOHkGUj0OKQWHRpuCs6dUzQUsp5VI-wKEEmh-6mV8rtw78r9js5MaUy4hjBNk/s1600/IMG_3301.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkSXF3O7aQkegyXB4RHYxVy19bJnx7THX30R6XConTaplWBWK4aPs2p4hGUQq6GcwSl8mJlH7-ysPDFZOHkGUj0OKQWHRpuCs6dUzQUsp5VI-wKEEmh-6mV8rtw78r9js5MaUy4hjBNk/s400/IMG_3301.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493731876051483890" /></a>I was relieved when I got off the bus in Cortemillia and felt like I was home. It is very comforting to have a place to come back to after all of my travels. I am getting accustomed to some of the things here. Constant heat which leads to constant sweat which leads to constant cold showers. The ice cold water that is warm by the time it reaches my feet from the heat of my body. The noises I wake up to every day outside my window, cars and vespas racing by, shutters banging open and shut, kids playing. The horrifying bug who appears in my bathroom every morning; I simply nudge him with the bathroom carpet and he skitters into a hole which he doesn’t leave until the following morning. The affable, communal atmosphere in the kitchen filled with sounds of Italian and broken English and the clanging of pots and pans. And most of all, my Italian family, Carlo, Paola and Ricky whose unending generosity and kindness have made me feel right at home. As always, I am loving bella Italia.</span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Images top to bottom:<br />A piazza with market tents- these were connected to the Slow Food movement, which began in Italy!<br />Lots of formaggio<br />The awesome bread plate they brought with my delightful gin drink<br />TRUFFLES!!</span></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNsJRHFTYKDROMOSBNC49an6o1LON4Fc-S_6RW9ggg49LPtNzzGImCTEQCB8bH4z47yOzOoAmWCIEsOhrXqmR0KmRGnLUXRuyUNAtoX-z6IJaSDiK8CKfdQDKq63tt1WXKXDiOH4WKGk/s1600/IMG_3293.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNsJRHFTYKDROMOSBNC49an6o1LON4Fc-S_6RW9ggg49LPtNzzGImCTEQCB8bH4z47yOzOoAmWCIEsOhrXqmR0KmRGnLUXRuyUNAtoX-z6IJaSDiK8CKfdQDKq63tt1WXKXDiOH4WKGk/s400/IMG_3293.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493737513661858130" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Produce section of the market</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVi6TWiXgo7VdS1fc5V0zVKJNsignT0CDf9Tu5WsPG_bb0T3l0fVsy-vGuyFe1qjjhzK4VS_qbk73sduDT_9MBmifad_7ktEImECcg-X_dDoT9GitDSzEVVqlUChsH0fIl8zfR33WGmc/s1600/IMG_3296.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVi6TWiXgo7VdS1fc5V0zVKJNsignT0CDf9Tu5WsPG_bb0T3l0fVsy-vGuyFe1qjjhzK4VS_qbk73sduDT_9MBmifad_7ktEImECcg-X_dDoT9GitDSzEVVqlUChsH0fIl8zfR33WGmc/s400/IMG_3296.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493737282797581186" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Beautiful pastries and sweets</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBWFJLWb_J5fraov3IKxowkfwwEnaHkGGVf4-jOZhfsvv2DBLO5tlnj9RNihUjvi9c7FZoxR3nDZl-Tsxl4PHpMQL-GeljmaV1NslSMIfH8i4u65T4UMcdTDwRQWA0j-JsWgMIbbLlcs/s1600/IMG_3306.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBWFJLWb_J5fraov3IKxowkfwwEnaHkGGVf4-jOZhfsvv2DBLO5tlnj9RNihUjvi9c7FZoxR3nDZl-Tsxl4PHpMQL-GeljmaV1NslSMIfH8i4u65T4UMcdTDwRQWA0j-JsWgMIbbLlcs/s400/IMG_3306.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493736995361071650" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Main square in Alba. I ate right there!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZlUp3o3Mxk3ycdTZoNyNYFcA03AsfGCG9TS4EEXv2OUjNfLnT1LdiO3G4WH0eG9eSmfh7zxGNxF5nc5pvC1K6kNV_yTHzzYASWNsx15LMjdTAblTOxjD2RtuEoJAtR9PnTUvJQOc1Ys/s1600/IMG_3321.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZlUp3o3Mxk3ycdTZoNyNYFcA03AsfGCG9TS4EEXv2OUjNfLnT1LdiO3G4WH0eG9eSmfh7zxGNxF5nc5pvC1K6kNV_yTHzzYASWNsx15LMjdTAblTOxjD2RtuEoJAtR9PnTUvJQOc1Ys/s400/IMG_3321.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493736807291177714" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">My lovely new espresso set :) </span></span></div>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-7187745290026583222010-07-11T05:41:00.000-07:002010-07-11T06:24:58.481-07:00Acqui Terme<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibx3yUzH2Fl3PL_0CDB0Y3xubAcdXUSrtaRZ0OYAS_UkieRURyfsp8nvJhNpGZhhcHT0zVx1IvHLV-OvJ0Gltx_O08-i8u9EGqcK8oM52u1U7ehW6IimmKSh0Ev3oBdf1_tftWy_4em9Q/s1600/IMG_3227.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibx3yUzH2Fl3PL_0CDB0Y3xubAcdXUSrtaRZ0OYAS_UkieRURyfsp8nvJhNpGZhhcHT0zVx1IvHLV-OvJ0Gltx_O08-i8u9EGqcK8oM52u1U7ehW6IimmKSh0Ev3oBdf1_tftWy_4em9Q/s400/IMG_3227.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492629209779091282" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Thursday was a free day, as I had no plans for traveling. I ate some breakfast and headed to the supermercati for some grocery shopping. By Paola’s request, I was making “American hamburger” for lunch and had to pick up some supplies. As I left the hotel, Paola stopped me, handing me a 20 euro bill. I tried brushing her off, but as always, she insisted I take it. The store was only a couple of blocks down, so it was a short walk. Thankfully, I have had the good fortune of being introduced to the Italian grocery store by my parents. The produce section happens to have a very specific structure. For one thing, the Italians are very particular about picking out their fruit and vegetables. Gloves are provided so the picky Italians can dig through the cases to find the perfect specimen and they are very wary of those who don’t use them. After taking care not to touch the vegetables directly, you face the confusing task of pricing. While the process, once learned, isn’t too difficult, a first time shopper is likely to get scolded at the register because of their ignorance. The procedure is simple if you posses the knowledge- you simply pick out the fruit or vegetable desired, note the number clearly (or sometimes not so clearly) marked on the corresponding sign (make sure you have your Italian dictionary) go to the nearby scale, punch in the number and viola, your price tag is printed.</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUP3DmMxjW149gv1gIecnAESzZWs1FUQ-tAvFgiS8z3fYC9GYLSd21YpliM1mxygIMPUjWq6QliQdJuPT33XFHe3y1k_TPmjvTuFnXteGkmpmggjBBXvEywkKVqI1kajH1IpWfzDiwP0/s1600/IMG_3229.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUP3DmMxjW149gv1gIecnAESzZWs1FUQ-tAvFgiS8z3fYC9GYLSd21YpliM1mxygIMPUjWq6QliQdJuPT33XFHe3y1k_TPmjvTuFnXteGkmpmggjBBXvEywkKVqI1kajH1IpWfzDiwP0/s400/IMG_3229.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492629573942170498" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> Once you stick it onto your bag, you are set! I picked out my few needed items, along with a conveniently packaged twosome of Moretti beers, paid, and headed home. I casually slipped the 20 euro bill onto the front desk and went into the kitchen to begin cooking. Paola presented me with a plate of lardo which I fried up as a topping for our “American burgers.” Paola had purchased pre made patties and genuine buns and I got to work cooking the burgers and toasting the poppy seed topped buns. As we sat down to eat I couldn’t help but giggle at Paola’s childlike expression of giddiness. “It’s like Burger King!” she explained joyously. We even enjoyed some refreshment together, pairing our burgers with some ice cold Nastro Azzurro. It was my first drink since a glass of wine I enjoyed on the night of my arrival! After lunch, Alice popped by to say hi and talk business with Carlo. We set up a date for later in the afternoon and I took advantage of my free time, doing my laundry then hopping on Carlo’s bike. I journeyed even farther this time, making it to the next town over, which was even tinier than Cortemillia. Traveling away from Cortemillia, you encounter a slow uphill climb which leaves you breathless. But the ride back is always enjoyable, a fast downhill cruise that leaves your adrenaline pumping even after you’ve jumped off the bike. Shortly after I changed, Alice arrived and we departed the hotel. We took a slow, leisurely walk around Cortemillia and stopped to get some gelato.</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNufV0gudZTvNpHTeeyzgPd7UvlP5U7igwJ2mllIEwwfneAmKFdCnoZzs2fyRIyaSGhnp3Vilou-eoK-bJR3J_x5nzntNg39PIdEyzlSl5w2KQtFnrpflrKpa9YSSrm0LtDRNmU5XK4w/s1600/IMG_3236.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNufV0gudZTvNpHTeeyzgPd7UvlP5U7igwJ2mllIEwwfneAmKFdCnoZzs2fyRIyaSGhnp3Vilou-eoK-bJR3J_x5nzntNg39PIdEyzlSl5w2KQtFnrpflrKpa9YSSrm0LtDRNmU5XK4w/s400/IMG_3236.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492629873966367826" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> Conversation with Alice is becoming more and more comfortable. We are getting to know one another and discussing the culture and politics of our countries, which is not only interesting, but informative. We set up a plan to email each other, me in Italian and her in English, so we can both improve and I don’t have to suffer the embarrassment of speaking just yet. I had time for a shower before dinner and entering the kitchen was grateful to find Poala had already prepared me a plate of prosciutto, braesola and parmeasan along with a green salad for dinner. It was a slow night in the kitchen but Carlo made an a traditional Piemonte dish for special guests who were dining with us. The sauce was a simple one, ground veal sauteed with onions, sage, rosemary, oil and butter, with a little white wine and seasoning for good measure. He poured it over a fresh spaghetti and topped it with white truffle shavings. To my delight, Carlo instructed me to get a fork and offered me what little was left in the pan. Belissimo! One of the best dishes that I have sampled from the kitchen of Carlo Zarri!! Paola seemed excited about her discovery that I enjoyed alcohol, a fact which anyone who is acquainted with me knows well. She had Elena make us mojitos and we sat on the porch with Carlo to enjoy them. The nights are cool here and in the pleasant weather we chatted, sipping on mojitos which Paola informed me were enhanced with Cognac. Paola made a comment about me getting drunk and Carlo snickered, stating “it would take her 10 of those!” I was quite amused by this but in my mind I contemplated... By the end of this trip, at the rate I’m drinking, I will probably have readjusted to a tolerance of one drink, just like the good old days.<br /><br />With plans to head to Acqui Terme, I was up early again on Friday. I love Italian breakfast; it is perfectly acceptable to eat cake first thing in the morning and the Zarri’s serve a different one every day. I sliced myself some pinoli cake and spooned out some soft sliced pears that were marinating in their own juices. The drive was short, with the usual incredible views and Carlo and I maintained lively conversation for the duration.</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTk-mhfe53yJHfvBKc7ynPthD4FAsK1NFhPvKJ6J4b1hPs01H53BZ0irZQ1b8k-PqPSie7Luk-WEVYhHPu_rQvoMRHIHxFxYA4PLdf3JuW106v2wunsqaLSA-8IPHbOCCH96_LwMQ1_BI/s1600/IMG_3251.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTk-mhfe53yJHfvBKc7ynPthD4FAsK1NFhPvKJ6J4b1hPs01H53BZ0irZQ1b8k-PqPSie7Luk-WEVYhHPu_rQvoMRHIHxFxYA4PLdf3JuW106v2wunsqaLSA-8IPHbOCCH96_LwMQ1_BI/s400/IMG_3251.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492628462827116418" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> Carlo dropped me at a roundabout where he would later pick me up. He was headed to a screening, picked to be on a cooking show that travels to different areas, showcasing chefs and their creations. The dishes are meant to represent the region where the chef hails from and Carlo would be making the very dish I had the opportunity to sample the night before! Before dropping me off, Carlo explained why this dish was so important to him and Piemonte. It is a simple, but classic dish with few ingredients that requires little preparation. To Carlo, this embodies Piemonte cooking but there are chefs that go against the idea, insisting on complicating their dishes and fluffing them with unnecessary additions. The show was giving him a chance to express these views and prove the merit of the belief that simple ingredients, when they are of good quality, are best left uncomplicated to let their true flavors shine. With my sneakers and backpack, I was looking like a total tourist, but I was undeterred. I have learned from the decades of traveling I have done in my life that comfort is more important than appearance. Although I hate blatantly appearing like an American tourist, it is an apprehension I’ve overcome. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj18d2otofM8uUtqibOxlkmGwsSS9WQ8QUS3jhs206fipryMx7bsFQPTWvwKF-ScKDppYKB3Py4o8HykjuzYlaFKaHHPkLD4OTcSsw3uXtzX7UTfOHk-wTLRgt-CikcCKEsxaNPk3fbiho/s1600/IMG_3254.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj18d2otofM8uUtqibOxlkmGwsSS9WQ8QUS3jhs206fipryMx7bsFQPTWvwKF-ScKDppYKB3Py4o8HykjuzYlaFKaHHPkLD4OTcSsw3uXtzX7UTfOHk-wTLRgt-CikcCKEsxaNPk3fbiho/s400/IMG_3254.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492628704245091042" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It was market day in Acqui Terme and the city was full of Italians doing their shopping for the week. The tents were strewn throughout the streets with people crowded on either side and I followed along in the flow of pedestrian traffic not stopping very often. I usually only pause at a stall if they have something that really appeals to me. The tents selling clothes and shoes often are overcome with Italian women searching for the perfect deal so I avoid them. But it doesn’t come as much of a surprise that the ones selling kitchen supplies often grab my attention. It was no different on this day and I stopped to peer into compartments full of useful tools, priced fairly cheap. As a rule, when traveling abroad, I try not to purchase things unless they are impossible or difficult to find in the America. I came across a ravioli cutter and an awesome veggie peeler which is so simple it’s illogical to me that I have never seen one in the US. I purchased both, spending under 10 dollars and considered it a fair deal that fulfilled my self-made rule. I wandered into the indoor section of the market where they were selling meat, seafood, cheese and freshly baked bread. I was filled with longing, a feeling I’m used to here in Italy, wishing that these things were available in the US, much less Orlando.</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSImU3w3gE0pogTmrvChkbKnCcQOZ1qvYaogt1Mgn9EtwauJGOiXc8Ak6-dAWREga1DCLll3gxYxzs9osTGGmXIGrmOjS7qinhSkEzAOBSI6WeePOHbZj77bn2Or46hBok2pmfqKJK4zQ/s1600/IMG_3276.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSImU3w3gE0pogTmrvChkbKnCcQOZ1qvYaogt1Mgn9EtwauJGOiXc8Ak6-dAWREga1DCLll3gxYxzs9osTGGmXIGrmOjS7qinhSkEzAOBSI6WeePOHbZj77bn2Or46hBok2pmfqKJK4zQ/s400/IMG_3276.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492630289207745842" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> Satisfied with my market experience, I set off to explore a little, venturing into less crowded streets. I came to a square where a fountain bubbled. I dipped my hand in, seeking some relief from the heat of the day and I was momentarily surprised by the hot water I encountered. Acqui Terme is built over hot sulphur springs, and this is where it gets its name. I had found La Bollente spring, a pavilion built in 1870 in the center of the town where citizens could access the hot water. Steam rose from the fountains where the water flowed and came into contact with the cooler air. It was all very fascinating! I continued on, passing by an outside theatre and I encountered a little castle, called the Palaeologi Castle. It was set on a hill and from the top I had a beautiful view of Acqui Terme. There was also a pretty bird garden inside and I enjoyed a walk through it, thankful for the shade. During my walk I was also scoping out restaurants, of course! I had already spotted a promising restaurant near the theatre appropriately named Osteria del Teatro. Although it was early, only 12 o’clock, I was hungry so I took my chances and headed in. An older woman seated me, informing me the chef would be in soon, and gave me a pitcher of blissfully cold acqua naturale. I also ordered a quartino of white wine, a little pitcher that holds about 8 ounces of liquid. I was happy to be sitting in the shade, drinking my cold beverages and reading from my Kindle, so I didn’t mind the wait.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JbnpdUYvYJ3G2R_USBhSQywj5gP8hp3kIocmDMgbnINDdtmMphKKqHE_J3njxM1W7psxEK-eH-lAZxXKCztS99f4Ljx1pUWRv7NubTxNVHsV-3hlBMsO-mpH49ix8SlVohymki1TA08/s1600/IMG_3240.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JbnpdUYvYJ3G2R_USBhSQywj5gP8hp3kIocmDMgbnINDdtmMphKKqHE_J3njxM1W7psxEK-eH-lAZxXKCztS99f4Ljx1pUWRv7NubTxNVHsV-3hlBMsO-mpH49ix8SlVohymki1TA08/s400/IMG_3240.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492635046736190514" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">As soon as I was seated a young Italian girl, delighted for company in the restaurant, approached my table with a tentative smile. She took my greeting for an invitation to keep me company and rarely left my side throughout the meal, although her mother came over repeatedly ordering “vieni, vieni!” I placed my order opting for a traditional Piemonte antipasti and agnolotti con sugo di brasato di barolo, a ravioli with a sauce of beef braised in Barolo. As I waited for my food to arrive and munched on breadsticks flavored with olives, people came in and out, obviously a part of the family that owned the restaurant. It is so comforting to know even with changing times and modernization that the traditions of Italy remain intact. Family restaurants are still very common and they remain the meeting place where members join for meals and socialization. My antipasti arrived and I explored it with my fork and my taste buds, attempting to figure out each ingredient that made up the dish. There was an asparagus souffle that resembled a fluffy omelette full of shredded asparagus. Next was an onion concoction, a mixture I can only deduce contained onion, egg, and cheese with a texture resembling ricotta stuffed inside the peel of the onion and roasted. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVaIesUtQgm1as8pKl3EbK5zIKNu_1ioCdkPmSpdwkowvMLs7LwZ3F46JFzzZnRTttX6Jd9aIbUY-ueP0r5HEGzJ0UGgMUSf2YBXDKnR7VsXewuoS-M8y_aSGdnc61ENtSHttAjJiQyDw/s1600/IMG_3280.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVaIesUtQgm1as8pKl3EbK5zIKNu_1ioCdkPmSpdwkowvMLs7LwZ3F46JFzzZnRTttX6Jd9aIbUY-ueP0r5HEGzJ0UGgMUSf2YBXDKnR7VsXewuoS-M8y_aSGdnc61ENtSHttAjJiQyDw/s400/IMG_3280.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492630618673040370" /></a>Also on the plate was a piece of crispy, toasted cheese and the tradition vitello di tonnato, a thin slice of veal topped with a mayonnaise like sauce flavored by the addition of tuna, capers, and anchovies. I am very familiar with this dish as we serve it in the restaurant and I have learned how to make it, but I am still unsure of the combination, the sauce being a bit overwhelming for my personal tastes. My plate was swept away and replaced with agnolotti. It was incredible!!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I savored every bite. The ravioli was stuffed with the braised beef and the sauce was thick and rich and made my mouther water just smelling it. This was one of the best meals I have had since arriving in Italia! I finished my ravioli and lingered a bit longer, finishing off the last of my wine and drinking an espresso. After paying my bill, I strolled through the city and found a bench in the shade back by our meeting place. I settled down with an Italian newspaper and attempted to translate it with the assistance of my Italian dictionary. It was an article about politics and the strife over the Berlusconi budget crisis here in Italy. Berlusconi is proposing a budget and if he is refused, he proposes a new election. But, this was not what I gathered from the article, simply what Carlo has educated me on.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMrXAYwqByC53I7iYs2FgnGPy83dTG6HWhieNx1biZtLhI9AiAdVuFDoeOYyKbQc4tZxGtz-DYF7B58E835CxFJbayxyF6hUBKWM6BRaewVyihyoRhXdLRAv1foW7z9alAFKs9ov8x2A/s1600/IMG_3286.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMrXAYwqByC53I7iYs2FgnGPy83dTG6HWhieNx1biZtLhI9AiAdVuFDoeOYyKbQc4tZxGtz-DYF7B58E835CxFJbayxyF6hUBKWM6BRaewVyihyoRhXdLRAv1foW7z9alAFKs9ov8x2A/s400/IMG_3286.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492630874994453858" /></a> I only got through about a paragraph, struggling with the large words I had never read before and attempting to interpret their definition. It was very difficult but I think it is a good way to learn new words and correct grammar. I am deriving the necessary conversational skills from my interactions with Italians so I think this is a different approach that could broaden my knowledge. I tired of the mentally draining exercise and sat to observe the roundabout I was seated by. It was far from boring watching the Italian bikers and drivers fly around the circle, driving straight over the stone center as if it didn’t exist. Before long Carlo picked me up and we headed back to Cortemillia. Back at the hotel it was the usual routine, showering and prepping for dinner. It was a light night but I enjoyed it as I am finding my place in the kitchen and get to do more and more each night.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Images top to bottom</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">American hamburger</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">No dryers here- my skivvies in the open for everyone to see</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Carlo's specialty, pasta with veal and white truffle</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Herbs and plants on sale at the market</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Fish in the market</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Acqui Terme from the top</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">La Bollente spring</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Adorable Mia, the girl who kept me company during lunch</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Agnolotti con sugo di brasato di barolo</span></span></div><div><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p></div><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5jdt0I_Cxf039E-SYfmCNUivyOzOqlyjmsc4urejLdsfMhDPrTURnhnljnXHJScEjLwqv53Jd27EoBm4ZK-n3KQTWybJ55YCQn3FOrFwL8P8D-ZmYKEeONVe-lu4aOCD4ETuJumSGiOQ/s1600/IMG_3258.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5jdt0I_Cxf039E-SYfmCNUivyOzOqlyjmsc4urejLdsfMhDPrTURnhnljnXHJScEjLwqv53Jd27EoBm4ZK-n3KQTWybJ55YCQn3FOrFwL8P8D-ZmYKEeONVe-lu4aOCD4ETuJumSGiOQ/s400/IMG_3258.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492638384619312482" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This cheese cart needs to move to my neighborhood, I would go every day!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOu6thXihuIXFaZs679eWoyaWkSS-k3oDSv_aWYwRyQZIaM-isNYbJYuzqfi9tm_Q3uWo3W4aOTb4y1qABytfATCHyubETUKkbJL9L4Scv6ye1DIRY7MI_lnxKZV6VNgtio5QkHgJSyi0/s1600/IMG_3260.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOu6thXihuIXFaZs679eWoyaWkSS-k3oDSv_aWYwRyQZIaM-isNYbJYuzqfi9tm_Q3uWo3W4aOTb4y1qABytfATCHyubETUKkbJL9L4Scv6ye1DIRY7MI_lnxKZV6VNgtio5QkHgJSyi0/s400/IMG_3260.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492637989060011826" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Beautiful fresh berries</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIrYJfjNP8ZvscbZFVEWsynzJFjwbRsz7DarUaioirJ-4aqpkVloE3RLCBTPLIWMIs_Au2uZI3xAsbSngfWE-rTEMjGVoE2UJ9WOjqo9d_7rBm7Zl9H98GREsG6DmmfdaLg-yJ9SZrzE/s1600/IMG_3274.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIrYJfjNP8ZvscbZFVEWsynzJFjwbRsz7DarUaioirJ-4aqpkVloE3RLCBTPLIWMIs_Au2uZI3xAsbSngfWE-rTEMjGVoE2UJ9WOjqo9d_7rBm7Zl9H98GREsG6DmmfdaLg-yJ9SZrzE/s400/IMG_3274.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492637455087426610" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The bird garden</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8EIxgbhtIP6GWMHYurNPPWgyy8yt8t4GySnHjFARzFOzZengqT9yGuwMI3Zx3rNJTnm-3boxwv2ibLya_ord5Rb_jUI84bQvM4Bkmvlc6AEuE6EI4sZCob0I2Y00ijK1i8Mq66XgvYFY/s1600/IMG_3288.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8EIxgbhtIP6GWMHYurNPPWgyy8yt8t4GySnHjFARzFOzZengqT9yGuwMI3Zx3rNJTnm-3boxwv2ibLya_ord5Rb_jUI84bQvM4Bkmvlc6AEuE6EI4sZCob0I2Y00ijK1i8Mq66XgvYFY/s400/IMG_3288.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492637140965668386" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Osteria del Teatro</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49zKCwKuj9pEYx3a8DBBeXr_h9H4r4TyNH9tvB0hI1PV8zIARSPMJ8nv2GxUutspCqCv82Q5ffTetIKCn_an8MTgzPRsxmKE81OFGG_s6AyLkz3vE51tCX9gwEV32zP-LNtJZRGZCDbE/s1600/IMG_3289.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49zKCwKuj9pEYx3a8DBBeXr_h9H4r4TyNH9tvB0hI1PV8zIARSPMJ8nv2GxUutspCqCv82Q5ffTetIKCn_an8MTgzPRsxmKE81OFGG_s6AyLkz3vE51tCX9gwEV32zP-LNtJZRGZCDbE/s400/IMG_3289.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492636766822666386" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The roundabout the Italians drive all over</span></span></div>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-60963085330127489212010-07-09T13:20:00.000-07:002010-07-09T14:45:30.767-07:00Grinzane Cavour and Kitchen Updates<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD39J7Fay268cYBp9EvKWCLD7LOum3Fq8JjCdifbsNR1_oq4p1Yj36KHZdsayn2j0hZPolXeFuaPQfWMOaAMBQm9Zrt1I4zT3tv_Nbtje1Gz_0pKCaM_Tf7rYXOFOLcBmsWKDDdyiAEoo/s1600/IMG_3189.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD39J7Fay268cYBp9EvKWCLD7LOum3Fq8JjCdifbsNR1_oq4p1Yj36KHZdsayn2j0hZPolXeFuaPQfWMOaAMBQm9Zrt1I4zT3tv_Nbtje1Gz_0pKCaM_Tf7rYXOFOLcBmsWKDDdyiAEoo/s400/IMG_3189.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492004794893391330" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Tuesday morning was a very relaxed one. I slept in, updated my blog and made a quick lardo and tume, the local Piemonte cheese, sandwich. Following lunch, Carlo and I were headed to Grinzane Cavour for a press conference Carlo had to attend. He said it was a beautiful drive through the vineyards of Barolo to a wonderful castle with panoramic scenery. The drive was short, only about 45 minutes, and when we arrived I realized I had been there before! Two years ago when I was studying in Firenze I visited Cortemillia along with 2 of my friends from the program. To pass the time one day, we visited a castle Carlo recommended and it was this very one! On that particular day we toured the castle and had a fabulous lunch, with large, robust glasses of barolo, overlooking the beautiful vines through a big, arched window. Unfortunately for me, the castle was closed for the day and I could only reminisce from the outside looking in. Instead of touring the inside, I headed off down the main, albeit only, street in Grinzane to explore. The houses in Grinzane are much larger than typical dwellings here.</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUgx2dfI1ibUQFhfqWWKh2YeqiBlp2DiqVYaXm9piTFTnV1ozFII6kP9tx44ufWQCkCtBLIrD7rTGQsMYzC1EZu-AgBqJHRenMNEnWSsOOpwYZxOxI-rCBwFbamoXkgAUfxYa49NY6IOk/s1600/IMG_3160.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUgx2dfI1ibUQFhfqWWKh2YeqiBlp2DiqVYaXm9piTFTnV1ozFII6kP9tx44ufWQCkCtBLIrD7rTGQsMYzC1EZu-AgBqJHRenMNEnWSsOOpwYZxOxI-rCBwFbamoXkgAUfxYa49NY6IOk/s400/IMG_3160.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492005172287509490" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> It must be all those prosperous Barolo makers living the life of luxury! I passed through the residential area and past a school of agriculture. I continued on until I reached the road’s end where the concrete slowly disintegrated into dirt. How fortunate for me, it had landed me right in the heart of a vineyard and I was encompassed by vines no doubt covered with Nebbiola grapes, the essential element to Barolos and Barbarescos, the best wines in Italy.I craved a glass of the bold red but in the small town, I couldn’t seem to find anything that was open. I immersed myself in the vineyard, taking in the beautiful scenery and touching the small, green grapes which had yet to ripen. I soon headed back to the castello and along the way in both directions I had seen no one. It was a very peaceful and beautiful walk. Reaching the castle, set at the top of a large hill, I once more took in the breathtaking scenery that surrounded me on all sides. To pass the time while waiting for Carlo, I settled down underneath a tree in the yard of the castle and read my book. Before long, the press conference was over and we headed back to Cortemillia. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrG_K5QOLOjrHyR0IRCl95nq-OT5yeF2tOlA7p_pn64tYeOknsRQEe0EQ6o3OR5zV4MudFA8GYxDrHHWoEqD55gPsSQKhe7ZpNVvv-nR4M4lB0z2FNZCLQeYnszjkEzTdy7_5dWXzm2yo/s1600/IMG_3156.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrG_K5QOLOjrHyR0IRCl95nq-OT5yeF2tOlA7p_pn64tYeOknsRQEe0EQ6o3OR5zV4MudFA8GYxDrHHWoEqD55gPsSQKhe7ZpNVvv-nR4M4lB0z2FNZCLQeYnszjkEzTdy7_5dWXzm2yo/s400/IMG_3156.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492007674977963266" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">On our way down, Carlo explained to me the landscape of the area. Near Grinzane, we passed through a small town whose name translates into “the balcony of the Langhe,” so called because it is at the top of the mountain and on overlooks the surrounding area, known as Langhe, on both sides. On one side, vineyards could be found spanning the hills for miles and miles on end. On the other, because of a different landscape and soil content, the hills were covered in hazelnut trees. On this particular drive, we were traveling through the vineyards which made for beautiful scenery. Carlo and I discussed school in America, as his son Ricky is considering making the jump for his University education. Back home, Carlo made me a fluffy fritatta which I savored before launching into prep for dinner service. It was another light night, with only 6 diners, so the evening went by easily without a glitch.<br /><br />Wednesday was a day of cooking! We had plans to make gnocchi in the morning so I set my alarm extra early. I came downstairs and had my breakfast, ready to make gnocchi at nine and to my surprise Carlo was not awake. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUjxY7FVkj3lJHJFLHmIjHKAGA3LdVTP4KVC7eUm_ECGX3ZX7zb-SVyW1K2hyphenhyphenbKL_2fEwZOAvjRGdtJftszVArw5Sq0KPe6OoTMESGLLDne8t2VLicyctcKOILUYXdiKHusm718D9Smc/s1600/IMG_3208.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUjxY7FVkj3lJHJFLHmIjHKAGA3LdVTP4KVC7eUm_ECGX3ZX7zb-SVyW1K2hyphenhyphenbKL_2fEwZOAvjRGdtJftszVArw5Sq0KPe6OoTMESGLLDne8t2VLicyctcKOILUYXdiKHusm718D9Smc/s400/IMG_3208.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492008434457490770" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Marlene (the sous chef) informed me we would wait for him to wake up. It was really a funny thing because the previous morning I had missed ravioli as I slept in and Carlo teased me about it, questioning me multiple times before I went to bed, inquiring if I would really be awake for gnocchi! I took advantage of the extra time and sent some emails and before long, Carlo had arisen from his slumber complaining of insomnia. All delays aside, the three of us got to work in the kitchen. Marlene removed the cooked potatoes from a pot of boiling water and mashed them onto a huge metal worktable. She cracked multiple eggs over them and sprinkled flour over the mixture. Then Carlo got to work, mixing the ingredients to form a huge mound of bright yellow dough. He then formed it into a loaf shape and cut off small strips which we had to roll into long cylinders that would be cut into individual gnocchi and tossed with cornmeal. It seems I was a natural! As I was working Carlo came over twice to complement my work, and I was very proud. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWWURdE-sjmxLHAgC6gt7KZikJYPYz8x1-olr40l3OPtbPHN-fIwsqqDh9Aj4Yhn11lmOlTXM2M0Hs8lBmjCHRdGcf3bxr3QBnjKCNQ_bfWiglXI82ghjq7QuxvZP02UE5vgki32Z-Zek/s1600/IMG_3215.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWWURdE-sjmxLHAgC6gt7KZikJYPYz8x1-olr40l3OPtbPHN-fIwsqqDh9Aj4Yhn11lmOlTXM2M0Hs8lBmjCHRdGcf3bxr3QBnjKCNQ_bfWiglXI82ghjq7QuxvZP02UE5vgki32Z-Zek/s400/IMG_3215.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492008696033960034" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The dough is very delicate and it takes a certain technique, along with some getting used to, to roll the dough into cylinders without simply smashing it. I can’t wait to try this at home and serve it to my family and friends!! Next, Carlo gave me a lesson in making crepes. He quickly whipped together the batter, a simple recipe, and we formed an assembly line, ladling the batter into buttered pans and removing them when cooked to cool. After they were all made, we stuffed them with a ricotta and sauteed vegetable mixture, rolled them, and laid the final product out on a baking sheet. These would later be covered in a béchamel sauce and parmesan cheese and baked in the oven. For our last small project Carlo showed me how to make an aspic with Moscato D’asti, a sweet dessert wine produced locally. The dessert was made by mixing gelatin and sugar into the Moscato, cooking, then adding to prepared pans filled with fresh mint and peaches. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtEnanQ28SNzzxt5QtknvNyyUmcI3kaUA-kcoFp3ueKB0OadrcgSDc5_WQz_LCJjrEjDdN1dRFLQ1b8a065mRP65nIBXXF4sQJNdbYyvBL6VPc0Rn4ZzVn8y_zR77MJqFAR3QgQauGrA/s1600/IMG_3218.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtEnanQ28SNzzxt5QtknvNyyUmcI3kaUA-kcoFp3ueKB0OadrcgSDc5_WQz_LCJjrEjDdN1dRFLQ1b8a065mRP65nIBXXF4sQJNdbYyvBL6VPc0Rn4ZzVn8y_zR77MJqFAR3QgQauGrA/s400/IMG_3218.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492010701228374514" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The dessert set in the fridge and was ready to serve, sprinkled lightly with powdered sugar alongside more fresh fruit. It was a long, but productive morning in the kitchen. I took a few hours to have lunch and relax before my date at 2. Carlo networked with a friend from worked and set up a meeting with me and a young girl who lives in town and speaks English. When she arrived we met briefly and she sat down with Carlo to discuss an event they are working together to plan. After their short meeting, we went to sit in the garden and chat, mostly in English. Alice gave me a chance to speak in Italian but the results were downright embarrassing. I have a lot of work to do still! We left on a positive note, exchanging email addresses and contact information. Alice even left me with some tips to improve my Italian, sharing with me some great resources online I can use to my advantage. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcBl_yZBCEC3VlQfYq1pMAaS47QemTR1aIA46nRNRyPR4DMN-g6gRHdZn9PeuU2bXdBk4aOD9E4QglR-F4P-3JXMCrTMQPvtggQypwA6o60VXkFLTABcmuARaeoLwWrMveDZiF84xOxjc/s1600/IMG_3226.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcBl_yZBCEC3VlQfYq1pMAaS47QemTR1aIA46nRNRyPR4DMN-g6gRHdZn9PeuU2bXdBk4aOD9E4QglR-F4P-3JXMCrTMQPvtggQypwA6o60VXkFLTABcmuARaeoLwWrMveDZiF84xOxjc/s400/IMG_3226.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492014040968333186" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />With little time to prepare for dinner, I grabbed a shower and made a quick dinner- penne with a light, creamy tomato sauce and an added bite of peperoncini. Dinner service was for 16 that night, an exciting and welcome change! The orders kept coming and for a couple of hours, it was a mad dash in the kitchen, with all of us rushing to get the plates out on time while maintaining the perfection of each dish. As often happens on a busy night, it was over before I knew it and as I helped clean the kitchen I was filled with a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment. I would be perfectly happy if dinner were this way every night!</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Images top to bottom:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Il Castello di Grinzane Cavour</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Nebbiola grapes</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Kitty in the citty ~ another cat that refused to let me pet him :(</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Prepping for gnocchi</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Putting the finishing touches on gnocchi</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Veggie crepes in the making</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The order board</span></span></div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU8AbLHFgdFM8HTMXT_4ahMnvw3M3UUuP3dFTJqbrs3bJ-XTG7Flnw8QegIa0Fy7MhaYSBAHu8_19zfwtYsKwPVvnMwP4vV7rrG8dIdU4XiiQQ5IkTgLVkgxyeGo3EwfDJ7PP6UJ5mKA4/s1600/IMG_3158.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU8AbLHFgdFM8HTMXT_4ahMnvw3M3UUuP3dFTJqbrs3bJ-XTG7Flnw8QegIa0Fy7MhaYSBAHu8_19zfwtYsKwPVvnMwP4vV7rrG8dIdU4XiiQQ5IkTgLVkgxyeGo3EwfDJ7PP6UJ5mKA4/s400/IMG_3158.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492023000049851922" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The trees near the vineyards- if you look very closely on the right in the middle there is a deer! I know it is impossible to see but Carlo said I was very lucky to have seen one so I had to post it! (click to enlarge)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMzrWi2JDXIqviQLsXyodkfYwK_Fj4qVYRPDggQZtR0iAAhlvsCaCU0KLuj4oiQuwOSjTzbXIpMrKxbR7dGRDdxUaQ7dgGdJFMhgEfHESsaqxJm8AQI0VrDXB1aS7bDUGxTNhoBjw5AA/s1600/IMG_3164.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMzrWi2JDXIqviQLsXyodkfYwK_Fj4qVYRPDggQZtR0iAAhlvsCaCU0KLuj4oiQuwOSjTzbXIpMrKxbR7dGRDdxUaQ7dgGdJFMhgEfHESsaqxJm8AQI0VrDXB1aS7bDUGxTNhoBjw5AA/s400/IMG_3164.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492022335237485746" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The beautiful vineyards</span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xKFScqoPrQ2xBzHoKlYttq_lkAW98Zfa-CbLWl_MTLn_RcBGNv5uKLMkQyV4reDQsZdSzYhBEGyWq3lF8b0PxXiQkktdkwDdMy3ujeQuGGUIVuDtNieWJl8h4_XWn3vCD7g8dkbgys0/s1600/IMG_3182.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xKFScqoPrQ2xBzHoKlYttq_lkAW98Zfa-CbLWl_MTLn_RcBGNv5uKLMkQyV4reDQsZdSzYhBEGyWq3lF8b0PxXiQkktdkwDdMy3ujeQuGGUIVuDtNieWJl8h4_XWn3vCD7g8dkbgys0/s400/IMG_3182.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492021388361084882" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">View from il castello</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWO781lCvbfvTeLQJ3957yerCHBU9AZCXQQ9ZcX-0pgk2ZcA7GgYKA1lPgtoq7inA5SRRYybp8lM6o0ecDCOJS75FL-z5BbtpplCaXCsjoQcoCqLRBC55lbNxLWIWkkXUYDOFzqaEPdJI/s1600/IMG_3213.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWO781lCvbfvTeLQJ3957yerCHBU9AZCXQQ9ZcX-0pgk2ZcA7GgYKA1lPgtoq7inA5SRRYybp8lM6o0ecDCOJS75FL-z5BbtpplCaXCsjoQcoCqLRBC55lbNxLWIWkkXUYDOFzqaEPdJI/s400/IMG_3213.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492019413408386770" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Lump of gnocchi dough</span></span></div>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-58272873042419425852010-07-06T14:41:00.000-07:002010-07-06T15:29:19.526-07:00Celebrations in Cortemillia and a trip to Limone Piemonte<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I woke up nice and early to the sounds of cars tearing through the streets, considerably louder than usual. When I made my way downstairs, Paola filled me in- there was a rally car race through Cortemillia that day. The cars raced right by the hotel with a disturbing swiftness. I would not be biking today, that was a sure thing! After breakfast, where I ate some small, delicate fresh plums, I prepared the bread for that evening. Carlo had already made the dough, but he entrusted me to finish the bread. It felt good kneading the hazelnuts and herbs into the dough, rolling them to form balls, and generously spreading oil over the foccacia all on my own. I cleaned the kitchen and then made Carlo and I’s salads as Paola was taking an afternoon siesta. I added rounds of fresh mozzarella that puts American mozz to shame. At home, I really only enjoy the mozzarella di bufala, rich and full of flavor. Here, the plain milk mozzarella is delightful. As you bite into a piece, it’s milky juices ooze out, full of rich cheesy goodness. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTw2vKPq6dRhWYWxMVoM4RyfMS1jHkTleDy7_Hia5Rq4QGbGozEa62Iw7wCtSyx-_Fl6aj0yx5u0TVDJoeXK1iGrK45-to6e80R3iIle3RDzE2JTiuk8c9De9e1XWdHLqWbB_X0fHqdE/s1600/IMG_3033.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTw2vKPq6dRhWYWxMVoM4RyfMS1jHkTleDy7_Hia5Rq4QGbGozEa62Iw7wCtSyx-_Fl6aj0yx5u0TVDJoeXK1iGrK45-to6e80R3iIle3RDzE2JTiuk8c9De9e1XWdHLqWbB_X0fHqdE/s400/IMG_3033.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490912041135974450" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />Following lunch, Paola and I departed the hotel, not far behind Carlo, to attend “Shop’n Centro,” the big ceremony Carlo had been planning for weeks. The event took place on the main street of the town where they were opening new shops and celebrating the success of businesses which would hopefully bring in new commerce and tourism. We arrived just in time for the ribbon cutting, a long extension of the Italian flag, and the performance of a small band which marched through the streets announcing the celebration. The citizens of Cortemillia leisurely followed behind, investigating new stores with curiosity and chatting with shop owners. We stopped in the main square where people were gathered and got some gelato. Paola ordered for me, and I received a cone towering with pistacchio and fiore di latte ice cream. Fiore di latte is a flavor I have never previously experienced and my introduction was a pleasure. Fiore di latte translates to milk of the flower and is simply a plain, lightly flavored frozen cream. It is one of my new favorites! We journeyed back onto the square where the band performed again and a crane let loose a net stuffed with balloons to a waiting crowd of kids below. The air filled with the sounds of giggling children and popping balloons as they jumped and stomped to reach the goodies inside.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpKAwZ8KgYCCCbTUqVS13YzqTtbwdrOg3hTJq-28oYNqjbrh6fq4L92xqf6_1n52nS52dbJR8eYVYl2zPTEST2WDKO5uc-iqV4w2X49xNVouzipZa_4pUQz9BH5MhZsYZrkWSJltz7aI/s1600/IMG_3048.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 336px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpKAwZ8KgYCCCbTUqVS13YzqTtbwdrOg3hTJq-28oYNqjbrh6fq4L92xqf6_1n52nS52dbJR8eYVYl2zPTEST2WDKO5uc-iqV4w2X49xNVouzipZa_4pUQz9BH5MhZsYZrkWSJltz7aI/s400/IMG_3048.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490912424297972050" /></a><br />Paola and I headed back to Hotel San Carlo, stopping in various stores along the way. She attempted to buy me unnecessary presents that I had to firmly, but politely, refuse time and time again. I think I am like the daughter she never had! We made it back with a bag full of Paola’s purchases. After a quick swim to wash off the heat of an oppressive afternoon spent outside, I got ready for dinner service. Carlo and I did the usual prep and then we started on the filling for ravioli. We ground up veal and pork and added the meat to a pan with sauteed onions, lardo, garlic cloves and herbs. The meat cooked and as the liquid evaporated, we added white wine allowing the moisture to once again steam off. We stirred in cooked spinach and Carlo instructed me to spoon the entire mixture through the grinder two additional times resulting in a paste like substance that would be used for filling. We propped up to pot to allow the juices the spinach had absorbed to drip to one side and left the mixture while we began dinner service. I took a spoonful of the mixture, to ensure it wasn’t contaminated of course, and relished in the complex flavors of the meat that balanced perfectly with the spinach. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyd-n0hNbrIB63XW5ZbkkwQtMLlb5o_NBt29WWlfpCKEhN9cwosKl5SspklpMqon1-9mG_p8pxPMBty9sXbppkBY7D_JupVQgb2eMsG7PM-347TIeZ_KLBhwopVA2UixUQcIkNBiYwOHA/s1600/IMG_3053.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyd-n0hNbrIB63XW5ZbkkwQtMLlb5o_NBt29WWlfpCKEhN9cwosKl5SspklpMqon1-9mG_p8pxPMBty9sXbppkBY7D_JupVQgb2eMsG7PM-347TIeZ_KLBhwopVA2UixUQcIkNBiYwOHA/s400/IMG_3053.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490912766842070466" /></a>The bite wet my appetite and I prepared a plate of prosciutto and cheese to fulfill my growing hunger. I then threw together a quick and satisfying dinner of pasta with tomatoes, cubes of mozzarella and strips of fresh basil.<br />Dinner was very light as there were only 7 people dining in the restaurant. I took advantage of the leisurely atmosphere in the kitchen, watching each dish being made and taking in every detail so I could imitate it myself when the time came. I also kept up with Carlo and Marlene, there to finish off a dish or chop an ingredient when appropriate, especially when the need for speed was heightened. It felt good knowing I could help rather than hinder and I could see I was becoming part of the team. Carlo finished the night making the special sugar coated hazelnuts that are served as a light dessert after every dinner. The method was simple- melt butter and add water and pernod, allow the mixture to bubble heartily, stir in the hazelnuts and sugar and allow to rest. The result is a crunchy and sweet bite, which lingers in your mouth as you reminisce on your meal, the perfect finish. However, in the kitchen, they pose a different purpose. Every time I walked by the drying pan of nocciole, I couldn’t resist popping one or two in my mouth and savoring the sweetness. I must have consumed a quarter of them along with the other staff of the kitchen who seemed to have a similar lack of control! As we finished cleaning, I chatted with Marlene and Elena, a server. It was refreshing to talk to the girls, close to my age, even if it was a jumbled conversation of Italian and English.<br /><br />I awoke with a start to Paola banging on my door ranting in Italian that it was time to get up. Today we were taking a “family” trip to Limone Piemonte!! Ricky is attending a soccer camp in the town and we were heading there for a visit. I quickly got ready then headed downstairs for some breakfast. Once everyone was ready, we hopped into the red Durango and hit the road! Limone Piemonte is about a 2 hour drive straight into the mountains. I watched the Italian scenery fly by and listened to the rapid conversations of Carlo and Paola as they discussed family matters which Carlo told me business doesn’t normally leave much time for.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMlq6P1dU7WzoaO0g2xZ0TOHPXM-ADBjsqtYJZjhOrKe_0iuj2s_oplhFK6BeXl1Yf_K48W3wV7LGhIllWQa1_0HUm0CjSshwfrcSWyY4AQMycTHhyphenhyphenOdfzI6dtCEpuDk47wfc85sdR88/s1600/IMG_3112.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMlq6P1dU7WzoaO0g2xZ0TOHPXM-ADBjsqtYJZjhOrKe_0iuj2s_oplhFK6BeXl1Yf_K48W3wV7LGhIllWQa1_0HUm0CjSshwfrcSWyY4AQMycTHhyphenhyphenOdfzI6dtCEpuDk47wfc85sdR88/s400/IMG_3112.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490913710043188978" /></a><br />I was surprised to note an apparent difference in Carlo’s driving as he slowly meandered around curves and as we stopped in a small town I was enlightened. Paola had a delicate stomach, irritated by the curvy, winding roads leading us to Limone Piemonte so Carlo had to keep a slow pace, deliberately navigating each turn. We entered a cafe, hoping to settle Paola’s stomach with espresso and croissants so she would not “vomito”. The bar also had a small pasticcerria and boasted fresh pastries and tarts. The Zarri’s purchased a torta di ciliegie, a lattice topped tart filled with black cherry jam. Satiated, we resumed our journey. As we made our way uphill, swinging back and forth along the curves, I fell into a light sleep. I awoke to the familiar sounds of Giovanotti and the very unfamiliar sight of towering mountains. The mountains were beautiful, blanketed in rich greenery. It seemed I had awoken at the perfect time as we pulled in Limone Piemonte moments later. I was struck by familiarity as soon as we entered the town. To my astonishment, Limone Piemonte resembled Whistler, the Olympic city in Canada I had visited only weeks before. It was no doubt a skiing town, lightly wooded and surrounded by steep slopes. The buildings are nothing like I have ever seen before in Italy. Many buildings were built with stone and wood detailing and every shutter and door was wood in stark contrast to the metal coverings typically found all over Italy. The town was dead, as if it only regained life when covered in snow and full of people indulging in the wonders of winter sports. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYDTn6ZKkpfHEEvwkddcofX6eTl7O7bG3U_kjjMV6Hh0KvzMlWEgaWq0-pDrzvzRZFQ5al7JFGk3G1c33Hk6d0S7v1cZhzNLl9dU7qAeh6tGR1b7w_DfxZbV_pQR7QQveK71KBWZJYPyI/s1600/IMG_3096.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYDTn6ZKkpfHEEvwkddcofX6eTl7O7bG3U_kjjMV6Hh0KvzMlWEgaWq0-pDrzvzRZFQ5al7JFGk3G1c33Hk6d0S7v1cZhzNLl9dU7qAeh6tGR1b7w_DfxZbV_pQR7QQveK71KBWZJYPyI/s400/IMG_3096.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490913248023727730" /></a><br />As I took in the sights with amazement, we pulled into a small hotel where Ricky was staying during the duration of his camp. Finding that the youngsters were at the soccer fields, we took a quick ride to the sports center. We arrived to the “base camp” which had rock climbing walls, tennis and basketball courts and soccer fields along with a small bar for tired athletes. The base camp was beautiful, surrounded on three sides with beautiful mountains. We said hi to Ricky, who was visibly embarrassed by the doting Paola, and then left to get lunch. We headed to the top of a long, winding road to dine at a restaurant which the Zarri’s know well. Unfortunately, it was closed for the summer but as we winded back down we stopped for a wonderful surprise! Being much farther west than Cortemillia, we were right on the border of France. Carlo pulled over at the border, which appeared to have no control or boundaries, just a sign noting the country divide. I hopped out of the car in Italy and in a matter of steps I was in France! We took some dorky tourist pictures and then headed into Limone Piemonte to try to find a place to eat. Carlo parked the car in the city center and we got out to wander. It wasn’t long before we settled down at a restaurant where I ordered veal carpaccio (can’t get enough) and penne all’arrabbiata. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGmXWw_rFmCy8P-z6QUUddTnOpkbAYPrZFfaF_rwLGx8IGErfxzPSh8E3Pi6uyrUECC47t5oJDh0qRr6gllDVTB86O2Io6a5qoGJvlR5U908w6ieHUg7eTbzqWl7kAJjvA2tXCc8e4Ns/s1600/IMG_3119.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGmXWw_rFmCy8P-z6QUUddTnOpkbAYPrZFfaF_rwLGx8IGErfxzPSh8E3Pi6uyrUECC47t5oJDh0qRr6gllDVTB86O2Io6a5qoGJvlR5U908w6ieHUg7eTbzqWl7kAJjvA2tXCc8e4Ns/s400/IMG_3119.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490913919968455042" /></a>Conversation at lunch was interesting, as always. Carlo is constantly switching between English and Italian in an attempt to keep us both informed and entertained. Paola taught me words in Piemontese dialect, as if I’m not already confused enough!! “Dooma,” the replacement for andiamo (let’s go) has become our mantra and we constantly chant it as we go places, “dooma, dooma, dooma!” After lunch we spent a couple hours exploring the city and peering into shop windows. We got some gelato, stracciatella and roche for me, and ate it as we meandered through the ghost town. We came to a hotel and stepped inside to explore. They had a newly built spa and were kind enough to give us a tour through the sauna, steam rooms, private massage rooms and pool. I wished we could have stayed to be pampered, but it was time to go see Ricky and watch his soccer matches! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNIw75tMdTYvcwcdzOM_NnLg2tdXoMp8hg19q_1aCVH0jUL-KqsFaTZ9BT80PYtAYIT65ck1L74jowYR9UL0n1xV9PD-Y0IXKyYWsnvPhvv0MFJXewe9NxLKLh7altqUgiPD6L7X-qDg/s1600/IMG_3146.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNIw75tMdTYvcwcdzOM_NnLg2tdXoMp8hg19q_1aCVH0jUL-KqsFaTZ9BT80PYtAYIT65ck1L74jowYR9UL0n1xV9PD-Y0IXKyYWsnvPhvv0MFJXewe9NxLKLh7altqUgiPD6L7X-qDg/s400/IMG_3146.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490914490913520578" /></a>We arrived at the field to find the boys had not yet arrived and we settled underneath an umbrella. The weather gets hotter every day and is beginning to become oppressive, so even in the shade of the umbrella we were sweating. I was enjoying my kindle, getting lost in A World Without End, when the team arrived and a young Italian boy questioned me, asking “questo ipod?”. I attempted to explain the kindle to him in broken Italian and when I mentioned I was American, he seemed perplexed. His confusion only grew as Paola told him I was Ricky’s sister. The conversation was silly and brief, but I was proud of myself for managing any conversation at all. I’m learning!! We watched the teams scrimmage against each other and I sat amused as the young boys celebrated their goals, screaming with glee and jumping each other, obviously imitating what they saw on television. Ricky played the role of goal keeper and was visibly a team leader, shouting across the field at this teammates and being the eyes of the team. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4EtSwAR1AO8guGlKd94rJ5dBpAsgkYuI1urhSYaMYQ6lSErlrmMjlpxwsi9FtWM_56EGwInR86X2WyzwU0keehZJH964ugwnL-W5x2FUCVgZsWrQTaZT28dneqH9Z3CYBcOvRCUkA3A/s1600/IMG_3154.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4EtSwAR1AO8guGlKd94rJ5dBpAsgkYuI1urhSYaMYQ6lSErlrmMjlpxwsi9FtWM_56EGwInR86X2WyzwU0keehZJH964ugwnL-W5x2FUCVgZsWrQTaZT28dneqH9Z3CYBcOvRCUkA3A/s400/IMG_3154.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490915817042242674" /></a>When the time came for a water break, we said our goodbyes and headed home. I of course fell fast asleep dreaming of our wonderful day in Limone Piemonte. When I awoke, Paolo told me the story of an old castle that had served at a summer home for the King hundreds of years before. He would go to the huge property for a couple of days each year to hunt. It was now home to a hotel and some lucky residents. The property also included a school Carlo explained to me as a food university. Students go there to simply learn about food, not just the act of cooking it. They are educated on wine and cheese, becoming experts on all things gastronomic. It sounded like my life’s dream.Carlo quickly drove us through so I could catch a glimpse of the enormous castle and snap some photos. We arrived home relatively late in the evening, but as the restaurant was closed we enjoyed a quiet evening of relaxation and I managed to spend some time catching up with people back home. </span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Images top to bottom:<br />cutting the tape at Shop'n centro<br />balloons!<br />filling for ravioli<br />Limone Piemonte<br />France!!<br />carpaccio di vitello<br />Carlo enjoying the soccer game with a newfound friend<br />the church on the property of the King's "summer home"</span></span><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOCUCjyfZjvqu8MDY9gyQtRsSJ5GdGnSy-sh1iHEwl8krnbc2ahuE0C4G-exyjnj1xEbO96Q5Ik049fqGR69l-YN7kJAHg9PN465CKpmuJgcQwDHyM_N742jFBQGAuoF6tYEtuj9tQh-U/s1600/IMG_3060.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOCUCjyfZjvqu8MDY9gyQtRsSJ5GdGnSy-sh1iHEwl8krnbc2ahuE0C4G-exyjnj1xEbO96Q5Ik049fqGR69l-YN7kJAHg9PN465CKpmuJgcQwDHyM_N742jFBQGAuoF6tYEtuj9tQh-U/s400/IMG_3060.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490923314387705074" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kzyOPoTsM0XAsYIOPRipNLi33VLx61srV2UNe7vD2sn1dUmcf7b0uGANdx2FBTb6rp3PXGNuy-y-laPrmd5kazzcyBDwEE6h-EfpdjyWowrUBzDsYjNIa9ZZ9fo7n2xD2g09UkaSzIc/s1600/IMG_3130.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kzyOPoTsM0XAsYIOPRipNLi33VLx61srV2UNe7vD2sn1dUmcf7b0uGANdx2FBTb6rp3PXGNuy-y-laPrmd5kazzcyBDwEE6h-EfpdjyWowrUBzDsYjNIa9ZZ9fo7n2xD2g09UkaSzIc/s400/IMG_3130.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490922907266259346" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Limone Piemonte</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATrQuwf7gLteMtdRoX1nO9jAeHnzxrcnTXuXZg1JAOiy4rAmkW6_LnUChbLokwgVZTREW7n55E0MIuTEvuga4Q_F05Wvo8ViJMfLMjZ8oNRVv1N3cxOGa_ONoCzpwEjTPLPWWxQla0Pc/s1600/IMG_3138.JPG"></a></span></span></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATrQuwf7gLteMtdRoX1nO9jAeHnzxrcnTXuXZg1JAOiy4rAmkW6_LnUChbLokwgVZTREW7n55E0MIuTEvuga4Q_F05Wvo8ViJMfLMjZ8oNRVv1N3cxOGa_ONoCzpwEjTPLPWWxQla0Pc/s1600/IMG_3138.JPG"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgATrQuwf7gLteMtdRoX1nO9jAeHnzxrcnTXuXZg1JAOiy4rAmkW6_LnUChbLokwgVZTREW7n55E0MIuTEvuga4Q_F05Wvo8ViJMfLMjZ8oNRVv1N3cxOGa_ONoCzpwEjTPLPWWxQla0Pc/s400/IMG_3138.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490922366075981730" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Carlo and Paola cooling off at a fountain</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGs2i_64y_jTn9ohYHWe7mCUUT4im9503sE1VmWIKd3UmbEEpAOLEZvio5fsO31oMv-n9PBr7qlooK_JCWVx0hXpUHIPIwc8uTqj8TRViy51cuHjj0kEMNDsB-FKuYDJJ7iUWorT3aBw/s1600/IMG_3145.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJGs2i_64y_jTn9ohYHWe7mCUUT4im9503sE1VmWIKd3UmbEEpAOLEZvio5fsO31oMv-n9PBr7qlooK_JCWVx0hXpUHIPIwc8uTqj8TRViy51cuHjj0kEMNDsB-FKuYDJJ7iUWorT3aBw/s400/IMG_3145.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490921502381032274" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">What a terrible place to play soccer!</span></span></div>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-17048250425908749222010-07-04T02:30:00.000-07:002010-07-04T03:34:39.868-07:00Cortemillia by bike and night 2 in the kitchenI<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> woke up feeling a little homesick and sad but a big plate of salume and formaggio, plus a cappuccino made with love by Carlo, had me feeling a bit peppier. My original plans were to travel to Alba today but I was unaware the morning bus departed and 9 and Carlo insisted upon not waking me up. Instead, I joined him for a drive to a hotel a few towns over. Villa San Carlo has been set up as a stopping point for multiple biking and hiking tours and as part of this, Carlo must deliver the luggage to the next hotel along the route. Tourists, usually Europeans, can book the tours through travel agents. They enjoy a meal and stay a night at a local hotel and then journey to the next the following day. We hopped into Carlo’s red Durango, likely the largest car to be found in a 100 mile radius, and set off stopping along the way at a few points in Cortemillia. As the local tourism minister Carlo is in charge of setting up events for the town along with other responsibilities. In an attempt to boost tourism in Cortemillia, the government is having a large gathering tomorrow in which all of the local shopkeepers join together to sell their goods in a central location. Being the minister, Carlo must ensure all is going according to plan which means a lot of communication and preparation. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0A1blZNm_FglHdTJ3KdGdMqYz8eOqFVPwEqvQnZaX8l8K1lbUOqs4U9aMqTi_rKreYgihOZr8hhibl6__4KHJ8jKyjecQjBSUveTgoEfx9zUkD0ReBzbHeGq84K1FdF5lHhAkruRkWo/s1600/IMG_3002.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0A1blZNm_FglHdTJ3KdGdMqYz8eOqFVPwEqvQnZaX8l8K1lbUOqs4U9aMqTi_rKreYgihOZr8hhibl6__4KHJ8jKyjecQjBSUveTgoEfx9zUkD0ReBzbHeGq84K1FdF5lHhAkruRkWo/s400/IMG_3002.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489981388819117442" /></a>All in order, we left Cortemillia, gliding up and down mountains, through tiny cities. I swear along the way, I watched his foot to be sure, Carlo hit the brakes only once or twice, no matter how sharp the curve or steep the hill. He was never phased as we rounded a curve and were confronted by a car driving towards us in our lane, never slowed as the road suddenly went from two lanes to one when the steep cliffs of the mountains only allowed room for a single vehicle. Such is the normal Italian way of life. Meanwhile, I was entertained by Carlo’s loud and rapid conversations on his cell phone, of course attached to a headset, and the worst of American songs playing on the radio.<br />We reached the hotel at the top of a mountain and I was surprised by it’s appearance. The building was a very modern wood and glass structure that seemed very out of place in the Piemonte countryside. Carlo informed me the family had just updated and had been very successful in their venture. I snapped a few photos before we were off, headed back to Cortemillia. Carlo shared more of his ideas to improve the city and its tourism industry along the way. As part of a new project to improve the overall appearance of the town, the government has offered empty shop windows to nearby shop owners in order to display their products. In return, they simply keep the windows clean and neat. Instead of looking like 50 percent of the shops are open, it appears that 90 percent are open. This is just one of many ways Carlo is bringing his fresh and modern approach to the old fashioned Cortemillia.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Qm4u-v4k6WQ2wK1P9m6fx2v7-YX6PYw-w0zeF4dB6gW7hr_aj0k1k6psjzZNwZHm6BpuluRBMf-u3rGFwqE6WIjD4pcAgwvDB3uNPiB34EVpgoYC5wB7ygQ4MNNOAk3tOX0CgesJgLA/s1600/IMG_3006.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Qm4u-v4k6WQ2wK1P9m6fx2v7-YX6PYw-w0zeF4dB6gW7hr_aj0k1k6psjzZNwZHm6BpuluRBMf-u3rGFwqE6WIjD4pcAgwvDB3uNPiB34EVpgoYC5wB7ygQ4MNNOAk3tOX0CgesJgLA/s400/IMG_3006.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489981770127125346" /></a><br />For lunch, we once again enjoyed a nice, fresh insalata. Carlo quickly sauteed some fish with olive oil, salt and pepper. The unidentified small red fish was mild and had a firm texture. It was the perfect accompaniment to our salads. We finished, as usual, with fruit and I had the best apricot yet. I am learning to enjoy my meals with Carlo and Paola very much. They eat just like I do, quickly and without pause, even to talk. The atmosphere is always casual and enjoyable and I hang on to every word they say, attempting to improve my Italian. Paola constantly worries about my satisfaction, insisting I eat more as Carlo again reminds me I am free to consume anything in the kitchen that I please. They are intent on making me fat!!<br />We cleaned up from lunch together and then it was time for more prep work. The night was expected to be busy so we did a bit more than usual. We journeyed down to the cellar where we collected ingredients and the dough made the previous day for more bread. In the kitchen I cut tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and carrots for pasta dishes that would be served that evening. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjr3gj1D7po9RXQwCOD24ZCU0SSHNqt1uwRG2hbA45z6GeW5qmIzbY4WcxROOIgjgNQzoF3wcLcZekxX2-ec1lqxKEjpkcCQ8ijYjCc8OjL_gPqsm_rjHb54ffwPLzeViS6p8Q3S8chg/s1600/IMG_3009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAjr3gj1D7po9RXQwCOD24ZCU0SSHNqt1uwRG2hbA45z6GeW5qmIzbY4WcxROOIgjgNQzoF3wcLcZekxX2-ec1lqxKEjpkcCQ8ijYjCc8OjL_gPqsm_rjHb54ffwPLzeViS6p8Q3S8chg/s400/IMG_3009.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489982030853202018" /></a>Carlo then taught me to make little cakes from semolina flour that we would serve as a side dish in the evening. As we whisked together the flour, water, butter, salt, pepper and fresh nutmeg, Carlo explained to me how important it was to have a changing menu. Not only could customers staying in the hotel and dining multiple nights in a row have variety, diners would have no doubts about the freshness of the food, as something new is prepared and served daily. The semolina mixture reached a thickness like cooked polenta and Carlo used a ladle to scoop out rounds which he placed on a buttered baking sheet. The cakes would later be baked to order.<br />After prep, I took Carlo’s bike for a spin. Cortemillia and the area surrounding it is a great place to bike, there was even a triathalon through town today! The roads leading out of Cortemillia are only slightly hilly and curvy as compared to the roads leading in which wind up and down the mountain. I took the easy route for my first ride, but it was an uphill climb and the weather here is in the high eighties so it still posed a challenge. Although strenuous, the ride was quite enjoyable and cars easily passed by, leaving me plenty of space. I got to take in the Italian countryside while riding along on a bike, what’s better than that?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ZPL_WnTDwsnOPKbHrjPnmG-A95zUIOz-K4Kqf7xLXZ4AfnVyxIDK7da6wv3w7xvTYagKof08KVp4wsXPzYyFjtKLKUEph9MYjVWJG7QX_W3YRum-A2ACexVO4Lh75sG0201jSUGhSsw/s1600/IMG_3017.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ZPL_WnTDwsnOPKbHrjPnmG-A95zUIOz-K4Kqf7xLXZ4AfnVyxIDK7da6wv3w7xvTYagKof08KVp4wsXPzYyFjtKLKUEph9MYjVWJG7QX_W3YRum-A2ACexVO4Lh75sG0201jSUGhSsw/s400/IMG_3017.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489982283998061122" /></a><br />After a swim in the pool and a quick shower it was time for dinner service. Because of the larger crowd expected for dinner, there was much preparation to be done before guests arrived. We ensured that the all the ingredients were in place, Carlo even entrusted me to do some cutting, and we made eggy crepe like pancakes for a dessert. Carlo taught me to make the amuse-bouche, a little bite that is served complimentary to each guest when they arrive. On this particular night we were serving a small toasted piece of bread with a decadent cheese mixture piped on top and fresh truffle shaved on just as it was being whisked out of the kitchen. When the guests started arriving, the kitchen immediately moved into full swing. In only 1 day I have learned so much and I was able to comprehend the orders and what needed to be done next, so I did my best to assist Carlo and Marlene without being in the way. I got to make some amuse-bouche on my own! I got to prepare the pasta when the orders came in, weighing the perfect portion out. It is exciting to know the weights and where to find each pasta as self-sufficiency is much preferred over neediness, especially in the kitchen. Carlo always explains as he cooks, teaching me every element of every dish. We sent out plenty of gnocchi fritti, vitello, and even some flaming agnello! The atmosphere in the kitchen was much different as the pressure to get each plate out on time was high. I enjoyed myself thoroughly though, getting lost in the intensity. I can’t help feeling like the kitchen is where I am meant to be.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvT9kX2pv3guW3OcJyzMJeGJSQ8OIqosyTd8hvg0IzvsnDvIJbU31M1SaDXfW0Uf5kcP89k5v-h2xxnbaS_3MwqJwIAumgr9U3ktLbBzk9pc7a5m_Q1UnuDhjTGEiu6Ftu15BQcpz15w/s1600/IMG_3023.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvT9kX2pv3guW3OcJyzMJeGJSQ8OIqosyTd8hvg0IzvsnDvIJbU31M1SaDXfW0Uf5kcP89k5v-h2xxnbaS_3MwqJwIAumgr9U3ktLbBzk9pc7a5m_Q1UnuDhjTGEiu6Ftu15BQcpz15w/s400/IMG_3023.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489982569798189986" /></a> Since we skipped dinner, Carlo kept shoving leftovers onto me like I was a starving child, but I had no reservations and ate everything thrown my way. I tried the asparagus risotto, lasagnette with ground veal, and even got my own plate of fantasia di vitello which was incredible. Carlo also prepared a snack for me, one I have only read about in a magazine once before. The story goes that a small town in Italy is known for it’s lardo and it’s a staple for the quarry workers there, layered on thick slices of bread for lunch. When Carlo offered me some lardo I said yes, certo, and there it was in front of me, a mini lardo panini. While initially upon reading about this practice with fascination, I had some doubts, my first bite erased all questions. The lardo melted into the bread from the heat of my mouth, it was like prosciutto on steroids, AWESOME! I helped clean up the kitchen as the last of the desserts were being sent out.<br />I finished the night skyping with some dearly missed friends and family. I already miss home but I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world!!</span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Images top to bottom:<br />hotel<br />la frutta<br />prepping semolina cakes<br />taking a break on my bike ride<br />weighing out pasta</span></span><br /><br /><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzJZm_poR7nTF_Uy-U4W2io2PQxqNcA8OGqQ-DqkWM0HZs5tU_WwTovhjNc2dh4_qXu_JGu9YOwLi7XU6291195BmKa0KWDrZ26xJZUfuIs7boW5L_EBoSFJXSJZmR0SsRJ0zWTiJySY/s1600/IMG_3003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzJZm_poR7nTF_Uy-U4W2io2PQxqNcA8OGqQ-DqkWM0HZs5tU_WwTovhjNc2dh4_qXu_JGu9YOwLi7XU6291195BmKa0KWDrZ26xJZUfuIs7boW5L_EBoSFJXSJZmR0SsRJ0zWTiJySY/s400/IMG_3003.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489996564974169762" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Carlo, tourism minister for Cortemillia, in the local paper</span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBnTqwoXRU8V0WPVP_eQUZK3TDpPdXA2Xteqf7Fpu8gOtpZsdKhSMJTpDgF3ZoKAN-j86882I0SZQD700ptjWUGIoGpwAG9BadXD5Oq79rBNp1RKryX92P4kuxJlQMTSwaEqbB5S-kUE/s1600/IMG_3010.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBnTqwoXRU8V0WPVP_eQUZK3TDpPdXA2Xteqf7Fpu8gOtpZsdKhSMJTpDgF3ZoKAN-j86882I0SZQD700ptjWUGIoGpwAG9BadXD5Oq79rBNp1RKryX92P4kuxJlQMTSwaEqbB5S-kUE/s400/IMG_3010.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489996364188601138" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">La bicicletta</span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmESPCBeLWAYZ5H5H1mKOcxLXfWqJEsjb6a5pHrZaSRPYOTbsiORaMsb_jZI98QzYusaQuNRC3tQVxWtqGgVrJoGeceug7EWZTKdnXw-bJtWGgbZxJcOK_KsDMlhDUIi6RZE4XVUnGEpM/s1600/IMG_3019.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmESPCBeLWAYZ5H5H1mKOcxLXfWqJEsjb6a5pHrZaSRPYOTbsiORaMsb_jZI98QzYusaQuNRC3tQVxWtqGgVrJoGeceug7EWZTKdnXw-bJtWGgbZxJcOK_KsDMlhDUIi6RZE4XVUnGEpM/s400/IMG_3019.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489996097727896370" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Biking</span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnUaYHqrvNgl49ou00U_4dXGp8LiHFOv9GZlxycjC9CIscC_XDl8wKK9mtKVVx1QY3cxCyfQPsJwuRFJUr3qe1QGD5hbD_X4JKiEiHu1TpwMf4YPUBkrT97NDYZsHSWH0iZ0t4RUjMZw/s1600/IMG_3025.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnUaYHqrvNgl49ou00U_4dXGp8LiHFOv9GZlxycjC9CIscC_XDl8wKK9mtKVVx1QY3cxCyfQPsJwuRFJUr3qe1QGD5hbD_X4JKiEiHu1TpwMf4YPUBkrT97NDYZsHSWH0iZ0t4RUjMZw/s400/IMG_3025.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489995822585718370" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Prep station in the kitchen</span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Xotif2Ok8lTgNYrqtEPYJLBAKf40LuakUjFvxkhCekd2x9mIqLpSTAoaVm5GDmNaVI91W6q_dvIfFQOxVlYGYi24-MpX_Gnmu6wGX9oLBnaw4aqQM7kU7w2hcjxqtrROVCNEPXb8dT0/s1600/IMG_3026.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Xotif2Ok8lTgNYrqtEPYJLBAKf40LuakUjFvxkhCekd2x9mIqLpSTAoaVm5GDmNaVI91W6q_dvIfFQOxVlYGYi24-MpX_Gnmu6wGX9oLBnaw4aqQM7kU7w2hcjxqtrROVCNEPXb8dT0/s400/IMG_3026.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489989840337549010" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Amuse-bouche for the night</span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzpJTC1gZBF-xRFjdKLsQIKEyxi2iNA_G5z-9fHPhgbccg2f3_4TdxbIm9Y2wB9xOUcYgF-Zsw2P_IPHFdYfU_R5K719lFxYk6RmCO-8vievh8QuPFhLUxP7aa8AQh9uIST1ZNkogcAo/s1600/IMG_3027.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzpJTC1gZBF-xRFjdKLsQIKEyxi2iNA_G5z-9fHPhgbccg2f3_4TdxbIm9Y2wB9xOUcYgF-Zsw2P_IPHFdYfU_R5K719lFxYk6RmCO-8vievh8QuPFhLUxP7aa8AQh9uIST1ZNkogcAo/s400/IMG_3027.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489989648851807602" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Lardo bowls and some fresh lasagnette!</span></span></div>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-44045742236045651922010-07-03T02:55:00.000-07:002010-07-03T03:29:14.373-07:00Exploring Cortemillia on foot and my first night in the kitchen<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRgLHo5QR8G2TfFnI51QQD6elQPfzMax7qPLXxqQpL7FNQNxMrujnDpPCIX1ac3ieBbpkoIQKQXvwviFQerXENBFOUgj2CjyNjB02nJMiQLRGFk3Ng3VduVVGoOuzWt52ZYA3HzLMnq-Y/s1600/IMG_2958.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRgLHo5QR8G2TfFnI51QQD6elQPfzMax7qPLXxqQpL7FNQNxMrujnDpPCIX1ac3ieBbpkoIQKQXvwviFQerXENBFOUgj2CjyNjB02nJMiQLRGFk3Ng3VduVVGoOuzWt52ZYA3HzLMnq-Y/s400/IMG_2958.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489617096664887778" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">After breakfast Carlo and I went for a short walk together. He showed me a bike on the side of the hotel and informed me I was free to use it whenever I want. We walked down the main street, Carlo constantly greeting friends and stopping to chat. During any conversation between two Italians I am sure to listen intently, picking up on things I understand and trying to derive meaning from the exchanges. In only 24 hours I feel that my comprehension has improved which is something I am very grateful for. Of all the time I have spent in Italy my one regret is not picking up on the language, but as my exposure has previously been limited I hope this trip is different.<br />Carlo soon left me to my own devices to explore the town, pointing me in the direction of the market and bus stop. I strolled along a pedestrian street, peering tentatively into the local shops and stopping to look at what local marketers had to offer. One tent that caught my interest was selling spices, dried beans, and rice straight from canvas sacks. You simply had the amount you wanted weighed out and went on your way! I continued down the main road, passing the sport center and the bus stop. In such a small town, everyone seems to know each other and I worried about sticking out like a sore thumb.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgB1OIIOdEVp0NGlJXDy9I2zo4M2efl4YO9oqutfRjbPcYRrqhRO2HMyOWYRDEjoxtYRfrkGvUCezonwUPs5DGB0TxYuGRZHVi0DzhQtFJO-fobbrXn4Ym5XRexgBYw63VTmAeUlWSa0/s1600/IMG_2968.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgB1OIIOdEVp0NGlJXDy9I2zo4M2efl4YO9oqutfRjbPcYRrqhRO2HMyOWYRDEjoxtYRfrkGvUCezonwUPs5DGB0TxYuGRZHVi0DzhQtFJO-fobbrXn4Ym5XRexgBYw63VTmAeUlWSa0/s400/IMG_2968.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489616806379535250" /></a> While I am sure I didn’t exactly fit in, I only got a few second glances and no one appeared to be bothered by my presence. Back at the hotel, I sat in the kitchen while Poala prepared lunch. Not being too adept at English, Paola often mixes the two languages. I love how she prattles on to me in Italian, with never ending patience when I don’t understand. In this manner, I will learn many things!<br />Our lunch consisted of a beautiful bowl full of greens and fresh tomatoes which I seasoned lightly with olive oil and lemon juice. Carlo sliced fresh bresaola and taught me how to dress it with olive oil, lemon and a bit of salt. He topped my salad with canned tuna which was salty and oily but not in an overbearing manner. They served the salad with focaccia and grissini. As soon as we finished eating, they brought a bowl of fresh fruit out, banana, pesce and more albicocce. The apricots, Carlo explained to me, had taken on a much different flavor than the one I had eaten in the morning as they were picked just a week later and had been affected differently by the weather. The difference truly was amazing. Our lunch was light and fresh and left me feeling completely satisfied.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKhc3A1rXIRN8exs5lMu60cdF9FWYmJ87tPUKTWKMkPEDcins1EQWKm9EW0-riwKRS-uqDtxlI9wkDLswLaYudbQ6qxn0plQ8zedq-ByyuJFyJrGn-QPgd9YqwDrFbImHe16idAm334E/s1600/IMG_2983.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKhc3A1rXIRN8exs5lMu60cdF9FWYmJ87tPUKTWKMkPEDcins1EQWKm9EW0-riwKRS-uqDtxlI9wkDLswLaYudbQ6qxn0plQ8zedq-ByyuJFyJrGn-QPgd9YqwDrFbImHe16idAm334E/s400/IMG_2983.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489617524471115266" /></a><br />Carlo and I watched sports for a little, Italy’s version of ESPN update, before we ventured into the kitchen. We began the daily afternoon preparations which vary depending on the dinner reservations. Villa San Carlo doesn’t expect to be too busy for about a week, so preparations were on the light side. We first made bread dough and I vigorously took notes while shadowing Carlo around the kitchen. The dough was simple enough (don’t worry, I took down every single detail!) and after completing it we divided it into portions to make individual varieties of bread. Carlo taught me to add herbs to one and hazelnuts to another, to make savory, crisp focaccia and to make small grissini which would all be served at dinner that night. We left them in the oven to rest and then turned our attention to the last item of prep, peeling and cutting potatoes. Prep was easy enough and I absolutely love the slow, easy manner with which Carlo teaches.<br />After preparations for dinner, I took a small siesta and then threw my bathing suit on and headed out to the pool. What a hard life, right? The pool is in the back of the property, bordered on two corners by huge bushes that block out whatever lies mysteriously behind it.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgYrT5idoZrrCz7GDlIK1Yoa8iLoOasllcEDyXOsB2GQWTMTFPSZ_i1z8XGv5veSZhsqadoCbF2sPx646KV__RHMzZ5OzUAZLAmQQ42H2kw_fMPSNTOnLzEatEv-To3Ctj_ETG-KywlQ/s1600/IMG_2974.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgYrT5idoZrrCz7GDlIK1Yoa8iLoOasllcEDyXOsB2GQWTMTFPSZ_i1z8XGv5veSZhsqadoCbF2sPx646KV__RHMzZ5OzUAZLAmQQ42H2kw_fMPSNTOnLzEatEv-To3Ctj_ETG-KywlQ/s400/IMG_2974.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489617935237832066" /></a> It overlooks the quaint garden and is by definition peaceful and serene. I laid in the sun and watched the wispy clouds float by. It wasn’t long before the heat got to me and I had to jump in the pool which was, unlike our 90 degree pools in Florida, refreshingly cool.<br />After my swim I showered and got dressed for dinner service. My simple uniform consists of jeans, a white v-neck t-shirt, cooking shoes and a Villa San Carlo apron. Carlo and I made two cakes, a lemon cake and a chocolate lemon cake and put them in the oven along with the bread we had prepared earlier. Carlo then showed me how to prepare a sauce which accompanied fantasia di vitello Fassone piemontese, a dish consisting of veal prepared three ways. The sauce we created was a tuna mayonnaise including capers and anchovies and it went alongside a roasted loin, sliced thin on the meat slicer. This was served with a veal carpaccio and a veal aspic, a gelatinous molded flower with chunks of roasted veal floating inside. For the remainder of the evening, I followed Carlo and Marlene, the sous chef, around picking up what I could, looking without touching. In just the first night I learned an unbelievable amount-<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgL-_5mSLzQu0_raUIxf59c62DB_dg1zFO8nPDEF-lZmRM3hd8t59RUN8cOnMPXdTLt6rTqdhWwf_x23xXts8lKzwaDCgFQgYofLcxO4-qHSXT52hWaCFJ9k1d-ehNFnOhh3DF9qS7eA/s1600/IMG_2991.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgL-_5mSLzQu0_raUIxf59c62DB_dg1zFO8nPDEF-lZmRM3hd8t59RUN8cOnMPXdTLt6rTqdhWwf_x23xXts8lKzwaDCgFQgYofLcxO4-qHSXT52hWaCFJ9k1d-ehNFnOhh3DF9qS7eA/s400/IMG_2991.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489618209594272050" /></a>I watched as the chefs sliced fresh meats, prepared vitello, agnello e pollo, and threw together risotto e gnocchi dishes. All of the meat and vegetables were wonderfully fresh, picked from the garden or purchased at the supermercato just down the street that day. All of the pasta and breads are homemade and everything was finished at the last minute and served searing hot to guests. One dish that sticks out in my head was a signature risotto dish. I watched as Marlene sliced lardo thin and layered it into a bowl. Boiling hot risotto was poured on top and then the entire bowl was flipped onto a plate- the lardo melted into the risotto and looked like a little steaming pile of heaven. This was just one of many incredible dishes prepared calmly and efficiently in the wonderful kitchen of Carlo Zarri. The five of us, Carlo, Paola, Marlene and Elena, another server, finished the night off eating pizza gathered around the small kitchen table.</span></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Images above from top to bottom: </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">local fares- lentils, rice, various spices<br />bella Cortemillia<br />bread ready for baking<br />il giardino<br />la cucina<br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDK-jEicD5gwRZdFEkJKunPYmz7TD7FodyyQC8o7lr4l8hpv86d1uEfOWtqkes_cv00PKL42Oy1C0LqSU8SFyFxzlveK_YBRwXMRdJC4jZLgGqV6apJG3olD65ME3r41QgHKeDgvFC8gc/s1600/IMG_2977.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDK-jEicD5gwRZdFEkJKunPYmz7TD7FodyyQC8o7lr4l8hpv86d1uEfOWtqkes_cv00PKL42Oy1C0LqSU8SFyFxzlveK_YBRwXMRdJC4jZLgGqV6apJG3olD65ME3r41QgHKeDgvFC8gc/s400/IMG_2977.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489621667519337746" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Lunch with the Zarri's</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueHnVGLuar0r__EUMzP4UgafSwoLfJSUqAbVAyey59Q1sVgLJz0fG9iBHwi079xAaM3exYeZZWWiI6DZEfVvkmnAAO1_XHoZo_UTWlcetNoJ4Sg_r_x6OxE1ipz6cDL0ZdsB-JiKLFD4/s1600/IMG_2987.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueHnVGLuar0r__EUMzP4UgafSwoLfJSUqAbVAyey59Q1sVgLJz0fG9iBHwi079xAaM3exYeZZWWiI6DZEfVvkmnAAO1_XHoZo_UTWlcetNoJ4Sg_r_x6OxE1ipz6cDL0ZdsB-JiKLFD4/s400/IMG_2987.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489621904900474818" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Bread ready for service</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbeVV66aPCXOPrHVMtn2QlR9k0bdRDQQGqf-BL8wMZgpN47sLClHON4sLtp62EGZMtlhsjPQTo-UugwPEkUNBOW3YWpF_cd8VGvwj7YNlBbnEhrbVtxKIxAA-CgUI6qzly2aXwChoLhA/s1600/IMG_2994.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbeVV66aPCXOPrHVMtn2QlR9k0bdRDQQGqf-BL8wMZgpN47sLClHON4sLtp62EGZMtlhsjPQTo-UugwPEkUNBOW3YWpF_cd8VGvwj7YNlBbnEhrbVtxKIxAA-CgUI6qzly2aXwChoLhA/s400/IMG_2994.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489622103577830706" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Prepping fantasia di vitello</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqKorF_F6sq6Gt7oLdTyvPfgRBUcr3gdhOz2DNhL4GMdwfJbP4FFiNSAotY8a-6TVz_ABTOerDeLKsif8rgdr0kO7uAL61LXvXktR06y27BEo7w0d98mbfp8LXIt8HKGqvtbBiQV7B55Y/s1600/IMG_2995.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqKorF_F6sq6Gt7oLdTyvPfgRBUcr3gdhOz2DNhL4GMdwfJbP4FFiNSAotY8a-6TVz_ABTOerDeLKsif8rgdr0kO7uAL61LXvXktR06y27BEo7w0d98mbfp8LXIt8HKGqvtbBiQV7B55Y/s400/IMG_2995.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489622276190967378" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Veal aspic</span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPDj0I7__40hrYDNafXypd40Zb8SkVysNoiaOhIYlcquLrEk2-YX-LjoL68ylF2tjzSI2EACwnVs_pOUNk7SAu0gNQYJBSCN3-5R04Mf9wAa0YnKeuB2XZlhh-t5dOIl3hL-VdF2nb5M/s1600/IMG_2993.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPDj0I7__40hrYDNafXypd40Zb8SkVysNoiaOhIYlcquLrEk2-YX-LjoL68ylF2tjzSI2EACwnVs_pOUNk7SAu0gNQYJBSCN3-5R04Mf9wAa0YnKeuB2XZlhh-t5dOIl3hL-VdF2nb5M/s400/IMG_2993.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489622512473558274" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Tartufo bianco!!!</span></span></div>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-31063353573859812192010-07-02T01:14:00.000-07:002010-07-03T03:29:54.359-07:00The adventure begins<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">After multiple train changes and many flights of stairs, all of which I lugged my 60 pound suitcase (what was I thinking?!) up and down , I finally arrived in Acqui Terme. I was almost relieved to have missed the last bus to Cortemillia by a mere 6 minutes as exhaustion was just setting in. I approached a friendly cab driver outside of the train station and used my minimal knowledge of the Italian language to tell him my destination. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl8pgsXvqjVWV_706Ro_d2HAf7ljsRH8DwIMXjvCPfSOZu6ya-YrdLeXxUCbuP3rLkFMUhHqA97pNtEaiNrk-aBC1_AOtxC4qehf9bqJ91O-fsZzp-Rwmc4ov2D7D440gO7RaDbseXP44/s1600/IMG_2941.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl8pgsXvqjVWV_706Ro_d2HAf7ljsRH8DwIMXjvCPfSOZu6ya-YrdLeXxUCbuP3rLkFMUhHqA97pNtEaiNrk-aBC1_AOtxC4qehf9bqJ91O-fsZzp-Rwmc4ov2D7D440gO7RaDbseXP44/s320/IMG_2941.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489220753803786130" /></a> As I settled into the back seat, overpacked suitcase safely out of sight behind me, I finally relaxed; all that was separating me from my destination was a beautiful ride in a spacious cab. The ride was exhilarating, as they always seem to be when there is an Italian driver at the wheel. We flew through tiny towns, inches from the walls and oncoming traffic on either side and raced around curves and up hills with the driver honking all the way at the slow drivers we passed.Excitement overcame my exhaustion as signs for Cortemillia popped up along the road. After passing through many small towns, we reached a road I recognized, lined with trees on either side- Cortemillia! As I struggled to take in my surroundings and implant the images in my head, we arrived at Villa San Carlo, my new home. I stepped into the small lobby and was immediately comforted by the homey atmosphere and Poala’s warm embrace. I had finally arrived!<br /></span></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Carlo asked what I wanted to eat but I put myself in his hands, simply opting for pasta, one of his two offerings. We entered the kitchen and he set to work immediately, tossing some </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">olio d’oliva</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> into a pan along with marinated </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">cipolline</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">. He weighed me an “American portion,” of pasta on a giant old fashioned scale and tossed the strands into a boiling pot on the stove. Into the oil and onions went fresh </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">pomodori</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> and </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">rosmarino </span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">which Carlo tore apart with his hands, insisting the taste was better that way. Turning off the burner under the sauce and leaving the pasta to it’s own devices, Carlo took me downstairs for a tour of the </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">cantina</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> where he informed me I could eat whatever I wanted whenever I wanted. His example “if you want some cheese, go in the fridge and get some cheese,” made me giggle and I warned him of the danger in that statement. Following our tour, we journeyed back into the kitchen and Carlo announced “I think the pasta is done.” When I asked him how he knew this he simply retorted that after 20 years of cooking one should know when pasta is done. I look forward to the day when I ask myself how long the pasta should boil and respond with as long as it takes to tour the cellar.</span></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMtWeRvgLSM4fj1Ty2AkwAARvAN58C7odbpZzKw3EInB0r8G7VCWfOMZed_cDqIg4D4zKthXWeDUac7QJdEkbkEESeN97sWgUOKP20sa1LN-ahx3fvA2b1bpZXwbH1R_XUpKHcIRws-k/s1600/IMG_2955.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMtWeRvgLSM4fj1Ty2AkwAARvAN58C7odbpZzKw3EInB0r8G7VCWfOMZed_cDqIg4D4zKthXWeDUac7QJdEkbkEESeN97sWgUOKP20sa1LN-ahx3fvA2b1bpZXwbH1R_XUpKHcIRws-k/s320/IMG_2955.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489219776027772338" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">He tossed a ladleful of pasta water into the pan, turned the heat up and tonged the strands of spaghetti into the waiting pomodori e cippolline. A little bit more olio, a sprinkling of parmigiano and fresh p</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">rezzemolo</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> and a quick flick of the wrist completed the dish.<br />As he artfully arranged the pasta onto a plate for me, he voiced his doubts about the portion size, sure I would never be able to finish the plate. I smiled inwardly as I seated myself at the table in the center of the kitchen, which was already set for my solo dinner. Carlo set a glass of Barbera D’asti next to me and as I breathed in the smell of my first real meal of the trip, I was in heaven. Here I was enjoying a dish made with only 6 simple ingredients that somehow tasted complex and rich, and drinking a wine which back home at the local wine bar I pay 4 dollars an ounce for. As I enjoyed my meal the kitchen was wrapping up for the evening sending out the last of the desserts and cheese plates. The team of 4, Carlo, his wife Paola and 2 female assistants, manned the kitchen in a calm, efficient manner that was enviable. What a lot I have to learn from this experience! </span></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Following dinner, Carlo taught me to make an espresso on an elaborate, beautiful coffee machine. I finished the evening relaxing in the front room of the hotel, a cozy room with high ceilings where you could hear the clattering from the kitchen as they cleaned up from dinner service and the cars rushing by through the open windows bordering the room. Once the kitchen was closed, Paola joined me while Carlo played the piano beautifully in the room next door.</span></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WHXMHmzZ4ZCAqWLD7j3qC-ZqkeMVZVLpVYnB4HMAyr6ECOC8Ha6v91QOk6e1RodMuIU8RpsO3xQdSMKdvX41of6Iu5QlHTlucDySvWB65uOCU3vcffh6L3erbwOaw2au8Sv1GcwlsBs/s1600/IMG_2948.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WHXMHmzZ4ZCAqWLD7j3qC-ZqkeMVZVLpVYnB4HMAyr6ECOC8Ha6v91QOk6e1RodMuIU8RpsO3xQdSMKdvX41of6Iu5QlHTlucDySvWB65uOCU3vcffh6L3erbwOaw2au8Sv1GcwlsBs/s400/IMG_2948.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489222056936409330" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I fell asleep with the windows wide open which gave me access to the cool air outside, the beautiful night time sky above and the peaceful sounds of a small town which consisted of the occasional car driving by and an Italian cricket who seemed to be right outside my window. I woke up 8 hours later to the sound of my alarm, and stifling the disturbing thought that it was 2 am at home, I arose. Those same elements outside my window aided me, reminding me I was in a different part of the world; the sound of the town waking up, neighbors doing work outside, and a lot more traffic, the endless blue sky, undisturbed by any clouds, and the pleasantly warm breeze which is refreshingly dry here. I headed downstairs and was greeted by Carlo, who showed me how to make a cappuccino on the fancy new machine- I’m going to be an expert by the time I leave! I helped myself to the breakfast buffet and while preparing myself a plate I couldn’t help but think that </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">this </span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">was the breakfast of champions! My humble plate consisted of 2 slices of prosciutto- the real kind that melts in your mouth, bresaola whose tenderness and juiciness puts roast beef to shame, 3 different types of cheese which had my mouth watering, a fresh croissant, and a tiny, vivacious apricot. I poured a glass of a bright </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">succo</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">, a blend of orange, carrot and lemon juices that was bright and refreshing. I made myself at home with la mia colazione in the kitchen at the table where the Zarri’s eat all of their meals. I navigated my way around the plate, savoring each bite. I started with a smooth, creamy cheese that resembled ricotta but had a salty richness to it. My next cheese was assuredly a goat, resembling bucheron, with it’s tangy flavor and smooth texture. The last cheese was a melty, sharp delight with hints of blue but lacking the intense pungency typically associated with it. My croissant was sweet and delicately crunchy and as I bit into the center I was pleasantly surprised by a dollop of jam oozing out. I saved the </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">albicocca</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> for last which was small and tinged with red. It was firm and flavorful and as I bit into it I was immediately reminded of the kumquats we used to pick off the trees in our backyard as kids. I finished my cappuccino and reminded myself I would be calling this place home for the next month, a thought I welcomed without hesitation.</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Images from top to bottom:</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">the view from my bedroom window</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">my quaint room</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">breakfast</span></p>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-56216563495316789922010-07-01T13:09:00.000-07:002010-07-03T03:31:36.782-07:00Getting through hell to get to heaven<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6CBEkE408OSOVfIDkOY7Zch-tr7lC_SCJX15qPJ1UVsIo8GRxC0ODkIvwznCwMddGKRbGwauDVCtyn05mDCROmyCLbhG3dbK-QdnE_tNGZvXlP05zk7v6DRTOhjQzVLKVp-6wZJZiRc/s1600/IMG_2924.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6CBEkE408OSOVfIDkOY7Zch-tr7lC_SCJX15qPJ1UVsIo8GRxC0ODkIvwznCwMddGKRbGwauDVCtyn05mDCROmyCLbhG3dbK-QdnE_tNGZvXlP05zk7v6DRTOhjQzVLKVp-6wZJZiRc/s320/IMG_2924.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489033241269816754" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My journey began with the seemingly inescapable problems that come with traveling. I boarded my plane as scheduled to John F Kennedy airport but as we taxied out to the runway the ominous voice of the captain came over the speakers to report that as a result of fuel contamination, we were being forced to turn back to the terminal. We were corralled off the plane only to find ourselves in the same terminal we had just departed from, a few gates over. After more waiting in the airport terminal where I was faced with an overabundance of complaining and a lack of information, we were finally re boarded and on our way. The flight flew by with the aid of technology; I was fortunate enough to borrow both mom’s kindle and dad’s Bose noise canceling headphones for the trip. Luckily, my departure gate in JFK was just across the terminal from my arrival gate and I was not too pressed for time, even with the earlier delay in Orlando. I even managed to grab a quick bite to eat at Burger King where I was confronted with the horror of the nutrition facts, New York’s latest attempt to fight obesity. Ah well, the indulgence of hot fries and crispy chicken nuggets was allowable as it was my last bite of American food for a month!<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HCEIz58WrUAo_q7xn_S5xsmTNhRZAOfJsqvKaVgqL5-gZzcaEKcFjb-UTh9Cz8Zqv6Vu-5dtnjC3TOrrdlEwwOS89IXcgXHC5-h304zq1gdbD8hbUch6QDO_5SQmjOaM2Rrl16Y6Uy4/s1600/IMG_2937.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-HCEIz58WrUAo_q7xn_S5xsmTNhRZAOfJsqvKaVgqL5-gZzcaEKcFjb-UTh9Cz8Zqv6Vu-5dtnjC3TOrrdlEwwOS89IXcgXHC5-h304zq1gdbD8hbUch6QDO_5SQmjOaM2Rrl16Y6Uy4/s320/IMG_2937.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489033794876508450" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I boarded the flight to Pisa and was pleasantly surprised to be seated next to an Italian man who was not in the slightest bit overweight, smelly or intrusive. Together, we delighted in the prospect of having our seats to ourselves rather than sharing it with a molto grande seat mate. After a mediocre dinner of airplane style manicotti and cheese and crackers, which is a meal I swear I eat on every international flight, I read for a bit on the Kindle. In a short time I gave in and was lulled to sleep by John Mayer’s lovely voice through my headphones which shut out even the loudest screams from nearby children. Five blissful hours later I woke up for breakfast, a sandwich whose odor discouraged me from even attempting to stomach it. I opted for a semi-brown banana which would hold me over until I arrived in bella Italia!<br />As we landed, I couldn’t help the tears that without fail come to my eyes every time I am back in this wonderful country. It’s always the same, a wave of emotion as I arrive feeling welcomed by the beauty of what is beginning to feel like my second home. My mood wasn’t even hampered by the blatant American tourists seated behind me raving about their upcoming trips to sink-way-tear and discussing their dietary restrictions they would expect Italians to adjust to. I escaped the airport with minimal delays, and although I was prepared for an empty handed departure, my luggage arrived to my delight! My last two trips to Italy left me without luggage for over a week, so I didn’t have high expectations for this trip.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbE14jcKXMHS0mFuaxPJVZf-Wwapc_JSgGfNsR5DZqO1gFSkCgmd6xmMDvOGweKQ5oo9x8aFqODLrHHkTk0VRh_CXmKw73HomN5TYX_z986_RWLQjrwGaQ_eQLv3zLzsmKPughJ_Ghhk/s1600/IMG_2923.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbE14jcKXMHS0mFuaxPJVZf-Wwapc_JSgGfNsR5DZqO1gFSkCgmd6xmMDvOGweKQ5oo9x8aFqODLrHHkTk0VRh_CXmKw73HomN5TYX_z986_RWLQjrwGaQ_eQLv3zLzsmKPughJ_Ghhk/s320/IMG_2923.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489033554367073010" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">After a short train ride to Pisa Centrale, I indulged in my first Italian meal, a “ham and cheese” sandwich whose simplicity filled me with happiness. The fresh, crunchy round of foccacia layered with prosciutto di parma and mozzarella, accompanied by a glass of Prosecco gave me an immense feeling of satisfaction and stifled all reservations I had about spending a month so far away from home. Eating the sandwich, sipping my bubbly beverage and looking onto the small square outside the train station, I couldn’t help but feel like I was exactly where I belonged.<br />Now, I am attempting to guide myself on a series of train rides to the small town of Acqui Terme where Carlo Zarri, my gracious and generous host will be to greet me and take me to my home for the next month! As I watch the Italian countryside fly by I can’t help but feel butterflies in my stomach, an inevitable part of such an adventure, but I am comforted by the vibrant, colorful Landscape and the promise of what is to come.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Images from top to bottom:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">cappuccino</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">train station in Genova</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">ham and cheese sammy</span></div>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-12002155899248727602010-01-01T11:03:00.000-08:002010-01-01T11:48:47.039-08:00New Year's Eve + The New YearBuon anno!! It is now 2010 and we have had a fantastic past 2 days! On New Year's Eve day, Heather, Dad, and David went to the store and got some things to satiate us for the next couple of days. They picked up some cavolo nero, cauliflower, and some tortellini for our soup. We had all decided beforehand that New Year's Eve day and the New Year would be our days for relaxing. In the morning Alan, Heather, Mom and I went on a long walk on our property (Dad and David had to go back to the store, ugh!). It is so beautiful and huge! We didn't see a single soul on our hour long walk. Heather and Alan kept peering into ponds and streams hoping to catch a glimpse of wildlife but, unlike Florida, every body of water isn't teeming with life and they didn't see anything. The weather was overcast and a little chilly but it was still a lovely walk. When we were close to home it began drizzling a bit... the theme of our trip! Alan and Dad whipped up a fantastic lunch of tortellini in brodo and chicken salad sandwiches (with homemade mayonnaise!!). We all lounged around for the afternoon, catching up on our reading and whatnot. Then it was time to get ready for the big night!! Amidst getting dressed, MY LUGGAGE CAME!! Finally!! I was so relieved and happy. We all put on our most stunning gear and we were off, headed to Sienna to celebrate the New Year. We took a long walk to the Piazza del Campo. So beautiful and quite a sight to see! It is a huge half circle of buildings facing the main church and tower which soars above the entire town of Sienna. The half circle is bordered with bars and risoranti and the middle is empty. On this particular night though, there was a stage in front of the church for the show later in the evening. The locals stood scattered throughout the center of the piazza, throwing off fireworks and firecrackers, unconscious of people walking through the piazza. The noises of firecrackers reverberated off the walls surrounding the square and it was amusing to see everyone jump when one of them would unexpectedly explode. Since we had arrived before our reservation at 8:30 we stopped at a bar bordering the piazza and had drinks. It was quite enjoyable people watching as most people were dressed in their finest for the occasion. After our drinks we headed to the restaurant and were seated upstairs at a table especially reserved for us! We were served complimentary champagne and some amuse bouches- we had a tempura fried sushi with salmon, a pretzel topped with salmon, a pastry filled with some kind of salmon flavored cream and roe, a flavored bread-like scone, a thing that resembled a pizza roll with no filling, and a fried meatball of hare. Then we were served a plate of gelato over a hard, sweet polenta cake and a fish with a thick, sweet sauce on top. These were all complimentary and not part of the 8 course menu that followed!! The next course was a chicken liver served with some sort of celery-like vegetable that was topped with breadcrumbs. For the next course, we had a risotto with baccala. Next was a tortelloni filled with cinghiale. Next we had hare with a pureed beet and some preserved onions. The hare was so gamey and some people didn't like it but I thought when you tasted all the components together, it was quite delicious. Next were beef cheeks which were absolutely heavenly! It looked like a cut of filet mignon it was so huge, and I ate every bite! Dessert was a bittersweet chocolate sauce served over pears. At 12, when we rang in the new year with an incredible bottle of champagne, we were served a homemade pannettone. Everyone in the restaurant wished each other buon' anno and auguri and toasted to the new year! Last but not least we were served lenticche, for prosperity. While I was the only one to finish every plate, I only had one bite of the lentils... salute to prosperity!! We headed into the streets crowded with Italians and went to the main square. We stuck to the outskirts and enjoyed the light show and music. The entire square was filled with people, amazing to see, and had a light show which projected images onto all of the surrounding buildings. The theme was a soul type Motown show and while surprising, it was great! We stayed until about 2 am when we squeezed our way through the crowds to the opposite side of the piazza and walked back to the car. Half of us endured the incredibly smelly, dirty bathroom in the parking garage before we left... but hey, the parking was free, buon anno!! We had such a great new year!! We made it home safe and passed out immediately. Today we all slept in as long as we pleased. We had breakfast around 2:30 (tee hee) and then started the fire. We bought a whole suckling pig which was small and perfect for the 6 of us!! When the time came though to season the pig... we realized some bad news. We pulled it out and unwrapped it and had quite a "funky" smell. After getting the opinions of everyone and even cooking it a little, we all decided it wasn't good to eat. Very upsetting since so much time and effort was put into it, not to mention the fact that we were all looking forward to the celebration. Ah, well. We just finished up a large pot of pasta topped with a spicy, red sauce served over buffalo mozzarella (which melted delightfully underneath the hot pasta!). Luckily, we have some sausage in the freezer that we'll be cooking up in the fire and serving with cavolo nero and cauliflower. Tomorrow, we're headed to Volterra and we will spend our last night cooking at home before our departure to Roma. BOUN ANNO, AUGURI to everyone at home in America! We miss you and you are in our thoughts as we begin the New Year. Ciao for now! xxo.Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-585218324426620372009-12-31T08:37:00.000-08:002010-01-01T10:15:44.801-08:00FirenzeYesterday was our trip to Firenze!! We accidentally slept in a little bit (whoops) but after our rough start, the day only got better! We stopped first at a local bar in town and got some paste- 2 croissants and these amazing pastries filled on one side with Nutella and the other with a creamy Éclair-like filling, SO GOOD! Got some cappuccinos as well. Firenze wasn't a bad drive as we are learning the roads with each day we spend here. When we were almost into the city, we took a wrong turn and ended up on a road about 2 feet wider than the width of our van. We had to pull the rearview mirrors in to fit through the tighter spots! Mom and I were shielding our eyes while everyone else kept lookout and assisted dad in navigating the incredibly tight streets. We were stuck for nearly 15 minutes before we could make our way out of the tiny maze. Everyone was giddy after that as the adrenaline was still pumping through our veins. Dad did an amazing job!!! We parked in Piazza Michelangelo which boasts incredible views over all of Firenze. After taking some pictures of the beautiful scenery, we headed down the hill and into the city. We walked to the Ponte Vecchio and it was especially fun being the leader of the pack for me! I know the city quite well after my 6 weeks there and the familiarities were not only helpful but very exciting. It was like being back home! Before we crossed the Ponte Vecchio, we stopped in a ceramic shop where my parents continued their search for the seemingly lost work of Parini. They only had one piece left and my parents used their self control to resist buying the plate. We have so much already! They did buy a wine pitcher which we have been needing at our home. We took the short walk to the Pitti Palace just to show everyone the outside. Then we crossed the Ponte Vecchio which was as always crowded. We took our time strolling across and viewing all the beautiful jewelry. Then we headed to the Piazza Vecchio and spent some time there. I got to show my whole family the face carved into the side of the building which Michelangelo supposedly carved there in order to remember a face in the crowd of a man who owed me money. Thank you, Professor Nero!! We headed to the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, home of the famous boar whose snout you stroke. We followed the tradition of placing a coin in his mouth in the hopes it will fall out and into the grate below. I failed entirely-- guess that's why my suitcase still hasn't arrived? Yes, I'm serious. We spent a brief time in the market and then moved on to the Piazza della Repubblica- the piazza I walked through every day to get to class!! Great memories! We headed down the street FSU is on and I got to show my parents the campus a little bit. We peeked through the windows in the back and they got to see the classroom and the library. Pretty cool!! I also showed them the nearby ristoranti we were frequent diners of. We found a small little ristorante to eat at. It was one of our best meals in Firenze!! I started with Zuppa di Porri- a leek soup. I was a little nervous because I have never had anything like it but it was delicious!! Nice and creamy with plenty of leek flavor and served with a toasted piece of bread. Heather and Dad opted for the zuppa di fagioli, yum! And David had a risotto di mare which was great. Fresh mussels, clams and a white fish. Per secondo, I had a white pizza with braesola (one of my favorite things in Italy, cured beef) and arugula. One of my favorite appetizers in Italy was always the braesola con burrata served with arugula and this was the epitome of that appetizer served on a crispy pizza crust.. heavenly! Heather had a pizza with zucchini flowers and anchovies, Alan had a cheese pizza with tomatoes, Dad had ossobucco, Mom and David has pesche di giorno, a grilled fish which was lovely and served with spinach. Alan and David got HUGE mugs of Italian beer along with their meal and the rest of us drank some delicious Chianti :) After lunch we split up... the boys headed to a museum and the girls and Dad went to do some shopping. It's Florence, it was necessary!! We first headed to Ethic, a store right down the street from FSU's campus that Carlina, Aleksa and I went to at least once a week because they had such beautiful clothes. Heather and I both lucked out! I got 2 beautiful sweaters. We walked around for a bit in search of some boots for me and I was lucky in finding a beautiful pair of brown boots with a short heel- very Italian!! Then we went back to the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo where Heather purchased a beautiful purse, gloves and scarves which were all haggled down from their original price. Go Heather!! I purchased a leather jacket. Originally marked at 220 euro (more than 350 dollars), I haggled it down to 110 with the help of my dad. We were giddy after we finished, go me!! My mom bought a beautiful purple embroidered scarf. After quite a successful shopping trip, we headed back to the Piazza Vecchio where we had some drinks and people watched. The boys met up with us after visiting the Museo Accademia and we decided to walk around a bit as we needed to grow our appetite before we could eat again! We went to the duomo and Heather, David and Alan climbed the torre which unfortunately was the only thing left open. Mom, Dad, and I stuck to the bottom where we people watched some more. Never gets old in a city! We all rejoined and made the long walk back across the Arno. We decided on a quaint restaurant just inside the city walls that was in a garden. (Carlina and Aleksa-- we always wanted to eat here!!). Everyone was tired and cranky but the night was salvaged by a great meal and great wine. I started with a burrata appetizer which Alan also ordered. It included not only burrata but grilled vegetables, a salad, tomato bruschetta, and marinated sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes. YUM! Dad and David got a bean soup with clams. Mom and Heather were wusses and only ordered one course but it ended up coming with our appetizer. A seafood pasta with shrimp and clams. For our secondo, I got gnudi which are deemed "ravioli without the pasta." I wasn't sure what to expect but when it arrived it was exactly as described. Huge balls of rich ricotta and herbs in a traditional burro e salvia sauce (butter and sage). The dish was good but very rich.. I had trouble eating 4 of the 6 gnudi. Alan, Dad, and David all ordered the mare fritti which was an AMAZING plate of tempura fried fish and veggies. When the waiters delivered the plates we were all giggling because of their hugeness but as always, the boys nearly cleaned their plates. After dinner we still had the walk back to Piazza Michaelangelo... a long walk uphill! It was strenuous and when we got to the top we were thoroughly looking forward to some long awaited gelato. We stepped up to the counter but no one served us. After a few "ahem's" we decided to leave... we refuse to beg to pay someone. But I was disappointed :( Still no gelato yet this trip! Guess it's good for my waistline after all the pasta I have been eating!! We will save the gelato for Roma. We made it home and everyone was pretty exhausted from such a long day so we all went to sleep. Quite a great day in Firenze and I think we managed to see a lot of things for a limited time in such a big, wonderful city. It was great to visit again. As I always say, Firenze has my heart and I hope to one day end up living there. I'll see you soon, Firenze! xxo.Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-62989641476177332622009-12-30T14:18:00.000-08:002009-12-30T15:08:03.284-08:00Butcher, wine tasting and Chinta Senese farmIt's been a while since I wrote but a lot has happened!! Yesterday we woke up early and headed to the butcher to get the primest cuts of meat before the other Italians. Alan, David, Dad and I drove to the nearest town and found the macelleria-- They had a couple cases full of amazing meats! Huge steaks, different involtini, chickens, cow tongues, rabbits, and also a selection of salume and formaggi. We asked for two bistecce fiorentina and they pulled out a whole rack of meat and asked how thick we wanted them cut- the female butcher cut us 2 HUGE steaks about 2 inches thick. Pictures are coming!!! We also got a whole rabbit for dinner one night and a whole chicken (head and feet included- whole means whole!) to make homemade chicken broth with. While we were there a girl came in, said something to one of the butchers, and he went outside only to come back in with a huge lamb!! It was beautiful and just another example of the amazing food in Italy. Everything is grown, raised, harvested, butchered and prepared locally which is something we definitely lack in America. It is one of the many, many fantastic things about this beautiful country. We made it home in time for a quick breakfast- frittata, salume, and mozarella di bufalo. Our driver, Sylvia, arrived and we hit the road in a classy Mercedes van (way better than ours!). She drove us to a winery, Castellare, where we tried a few different Chiantis of different years. It always amazes me how the wines can vary so much from year to year although they come from the same winery, contain the same blends, and are grown in the exact same vineyard. We even got a chance to try the 2008 Chianti which, although young, tasted wonderful. Dad purchased a bottle and we were on our way again! After another hour long drive we reached the farm where we would be receiving our tour. As we pulled up we saw the pigs on the side of the road- they were huge and black with a white collar around their stomach, front legs and neck. We later learned this is a sign of their pure breed and the pigs with the perfect markings are kept for breeding. We walked up to the house where we were greeted by 2 beautiful weimeraners (one of which is a truffle hunter!!!!). The owner of the farm, Danielo, came out to greet us. He led us through his back yard, full of olive trees, to where the pigs were kept. While we were walking, 2 cats began to follow us. David leaned down to scratch one and when he stood up to walk away, it attempted to claw its way up his back!!!! Danielo laughed and told us (rather told Sylvia who translated for us) that he likes to ride on shoulders. He then picked the cat up, set him on his shoulders and continued on his way. What did I say about shoulder cats??? Kaya needs more intense training is all. The cats followed us all around the farm. Anyway, as soon as we exited the yard through a gate Danielo started yelling diamo(his version of andiamo, let's go- a drawn out version "dee-yaaa-mooo"). The pigs actually starting running towards him!!!! It was quite a sight to see. He led us to a small shack where he pulled out a bucket of food. By this time, after all Danielo's "diamos," 13 or so pigs had crowded by the fence, snorting up a storm. He proceeded to scoop some feed and throw it into the crowd of pigs who instantly began fighting. Then he told us all about Chinta Senese. They are a certain breed of pig that almost died out from existence. The government then sanctioned the raising of the pigs but with very high standards- there are regulations regarding the amount of acres allotted to pigs and the food they are given. The pigs mostly eat free range but can also be given food which can only be organically grown plants like corn, svelte, wheat etc. The pigs aren't given any soy. They must be raised humanely. Such a difference from the US where the pigs are kept in kennels and fed corn and animal byproducts, and loaded up with antibiotics and hormones. And boy were those pigs happy!! On the farm they had about 300 pigs. There was a part allotted for the breeding pigs which are about 13 females to one male. They are only allowed to reproduce twice a year. The pigs are sent off to a "laboratory," where they are butchered and the meat is then cured for various periods of time. During the explanation, Danielo suddenly was distracted by something. We all turned around to see an ENORMOUS pig waddling (literally) his way over to us. It was the male!!! Danielo took special care to bring food over to him and made sure none of the other pigs ate it. Gotta keep the big man happy- he's a busy pig with 13 ladies to attend to! After that we went to a pen where the babies were kept. They had just been separated from their parents and when Danielo picked one up it's shrieking instantly alerted the mother who came up to their dividing fence. How cute! Danielo says the chinta senese are a very smart breed. The babies were soooo cute! There were probably about 50 of them in the pen and they all came running out when we walked up. I got the best pictures :) We then went and saw the "sausage" pigs. Not nearly all of them came running when Danielo called but it still seemed like an amazing amount. Time to eat!!! Danielo took us into his home- so cool- and we sat down at his kitchen table in front of an incredible spread of salume. On our plate we had ghanciale, which Danielo referred to as poesia, poetry, salume, and salume with fennel. Danielo's son Niccolo toasted us some bread on their open kitchen fire, poured rich olive oil on top, and we all sat down to enjoy the meal together with a bottle of chianti. The salume was HEAVENLY. Poesia, indeed. They also served us some homemade ribollita which was fantastic and interestingly enough varied from the ribollita we made 2 days previously. Just as Giovennella taught us, ribollita can be made with anything on hand or whatever is preferred. We ended up enjoying ourselves so much that we sat at that table for a couple of hours, conversing in Italian and English and just enjoying the great food, wine and company. Danielo's sons were both very friendly and we were astonished to hear they were 15 and 19- they were huge!!!! Niccolo and David talked about wrestling and Niccolo asked "is it like WWF?" Very cute :) It is fun to see the cultural differences but also to see that we are all very similar in the end. We had a really great day and left with well wishes and promises to meet again. We got home early in the afternoon and all had a chance to relax for a nice change. Alan and David started the chicken broth. What a sight to see, a chicken head floating among the celery and carrots!! The boys went outside and threw around some frisbee discs while the ladies cuddled under blankets to catch up on some reading. It wasn't long before we cracked open some wine and started the fire! We started our dinner with caprese, roasted peppers, and huge, green olives. Then we grilled our gigantic bisteccas, some zucchini and raddichio and enjoyed it with a nice green salad. The evening was thoroughly enjoyable and the wine kept flowing. After dinner we headed back out by the fire and enjoyed the beautiful evening. We busted out the Vin Santo and Montenegro and started a game of Monopoly which of course was not finished by the night's end. That game lasts forever!! Alan was of course winning by the time we all went to bed. Another wonderful day in Italia. Today was Firenze-- returing home :) Ma, sono stanco. I will write tomorrow!! xxo.Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-7208328007938724492009-12-29T06:09:00.000-08:002009-12-29T06:30:06.999-08:00Facts about Toscano & Chianti + Cooking tips from GiovanellaThe region of Chianti is famous for its incredible wine. They were once a part of Florence but are now considered part of Sienna which creates some rivalry in the region. They have been producing wine for centuries and are well known for the gallo nero (black rooster) sometimes pictured on their bottles. The region contains government agencies which control the production of all Chianti under DOCG's, Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita. To retain the Chianti name, a wine must follow certain standards which include the rule that Chianti's must contain at least 80% Sangiovese grapes. The other grapes blended into the wine may be chosen on an individual basis. <br />In Toscano, the food is seasonal and based on local ingredients. Cured meats found in Tuscany are much saltier then elsewhere because farmhouse bread was baked only once a week. In order to keep the bread from getting moldy, no salt was added to the dough. They compensated for this lack of salt by making the ham and salami saltier then most. This tradition lives on today. Tuscany is famous for its pork, beef, and lamb and the wines are the perfect accompaniment for these. <br /><br />At our cooking class, I learned some awesome cooking tips from Giovannella:<br />-When cooking kale, it is best to freeze it for 30 minutes to an hour to "crisp" it so that it retains its texture during cooking.<br />-Ribollita is a dish always made in winter because of the components that make up the dish. It is always made with dry beans because "that's the way it's done." I love typical phrases like this which were quite common during our cooking lesson!<br />-When you cook the dry beans, they must be simmered, not boiled, overnight so the skin is soft.<br />-You must use Tuscan bread, not ciabatta, in the ribollita so that the bread doesn't get mushy. It's also best to use day old bread for the same reason.<br />-It is always better to use canned tomatoes in winter because they are only in season during the summer!!<br />-When cooking mushrooms, always add salt at the end because it extracts the water from them.<br />-When cutting endive, cut it down the middle, then cut the rest right side up so you can see the core and keep it attached.<br />-When you are cooking a frittata, simply turn the eggs over onto the lid to flip it.<br />-When making batters, always add alcohol (wine, beer, even port) to ensure that the fried result does not turn out mushy- our batter consisted simply of flour, wine, sugar and a bit of Vin Santo. Giovennella informed us we could use this for anything! Another key to crispy fried food is to keep the batter cold until you use it.Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-71550607798923918752009-12-28T14:53:00.000-08:002009-12-28T16:09:13.358-08:00Day 2: Voltaia and San GimignanoMy second suitcase still hasn't arrived and the word is "they have not found it yet," but I haven't let it bring me down. Although wearing the same shoes and lacking toiletries is getting old. Good thing I packed my toothbrush in my carry on! Today was fantastic!! We had to wake up a little early and we were all pretty tired but we had a wonderful breakfast of omelette, fresh pancetta, toast and espresso. We hopped in the van and headed to Castello di Volpaia in Radda in Chianti. Known as "the heart of Chianti," this historical town is owned by a husband and wife who were lucky enough to receive the property, including the vineyards, olive trees and most of the buildings, as a wedding gift. Giovannella is the proud owner of 2/3 of Volpaia and is also the one who gave us our cooking lesson and who we shared a wonderful meal with. We stopped in a town just below Volpaia and had some delicious cappuccinos with the locals then made it up to the town. After wandering a bit and finally asking for help from some citizens, we found Giovannella and Roberta who shared their beautiful town with us. We started off in an amazing kitchen with two parallel counters including 2 gas ranges and plenty of counter space to chop on. On the end of one counter was a stunning spread of fresh cavolo nero, fagioli, funghi, and herbs. All of the vegetables used were grown organically very locally in Volpaia. In fact, we saw the garden just on the outskirts of the city! Our menu included mushroom crostini, ribollita, Tuscan veal rolls, indivia stufata (stewed endive) and mele fritte (fried apples). Our family, Giovenella and 3 assistants barely crowded the kitchen as we began to prepare the meal. We started by preparing the vegetables- celery, carrots, and onion- by chopping them with a traditional mezza luna, a half moon shaped knife that you rock back and forth to easily mince ingredients. I want one of these for my kitchen! We went on to chop garlic and herbs for our other recipes. The lesson was extra special because we all got to help with each component of every dish! After cooking for a bit we relocated downstairs and enjoyed our crostini di funghi with our choice of red or white wine from the Volpaia vineyards. I chose the white wine, a Chardonnay, which was light, fruity and very delicious! The mushroom crostini was absolutely scrumptious and was served with some Pecorino, a sheep's milk cheese that was of course delectable. We headed back up to the kitchen with some vino rosso. The Chianti we drank was typical of the region, including 90% Sangiovese grapes and 10% Syrah and Merlot grapes. It was wonderful! We finished preparing the ribollita and let it cook on while we made the veal. The veal was a very flat, wide piece and was absolutely beautiful!! We first seasoned the meat and then made a fritatta which was simply two eggs cooked in olive oil. When we told Giovannella we used butter in the States she simply replied "it's the same thing," which gave us all quite a laugh! We topped the veal with the frittata and then layered that with some Mortadella. Then we rolled the meat, and tied it with a super cool tying technique which we will all be using in the future. We put the meat into a pan filled with olive oil, garlic and rosemary sprigs to cook. After that we made the endive which was simply blanched endive stewed with garlic, anchovies and tomatoes. Then we cored, peeled, and sliced apples, and created a delicious batter of flour, wine, sugar and Vin Santo for the mele fritte. To finish off, we completed the ribollita. In large pots, we first ladled soup and then topped it with day old bread, sliced very thinly. We continued layering until the pot was full and then put the ribollita in the oven to finish off. While our meal continued cooking, Roberta gave us a tour of the town. We began the tour by seeing where the olive oil is produced. Each batch produces around 4000 litres of olive oil which Roberta referred to as "a small amount." The Castello also rents the press out to locals who wish to press their own oil. Then on to the wine... She showed us first where all the grapes are transported and dumped. Apparently, when the grapes are harvested, all the tourists get excited because the tractors used to transport the grapes are made by Lamborghini. Silly American tourists :) The grapes then fall to a lower holding cell where they are pressed. The liquid is transported through underground pipes (which flow underneath the entire city) into the vats- steel or oak- which they are fermented and aged in. Seeing the underground holding and fermentation area was amazing as the casks were HUGE! The bigger casks hold up to 9000 bottles! The smaller casks produce a much different wine as the taste of wood is much stronger in the wine. They are used for longer aging. The oak casks are made from different areas which are shown on the front using symbols. Some of the ones we saw came from Sylvania and France. The crest of Castello di Volpaia was also pressed into each cask. Roberta then brought us to an aboveground room used to create Vin Santo. From the ceiling hung rows and rows of beautiful, small green and red grapes used for producing the Vin Santo. Unlike wine, Vin Santo is fermented and aged in the same cask. It was very, very cool to see the process behind the making of wine and olive oil and definitely made me appreciate the taste of both even more! After the tour we headed back and sat down at a beautiful table to eat our lunch. We were served two different types of Chianti, the traditional and a SuperTuscan which does not follow DOCG standards but can sometimes taste even better! The ribollita was absolutely amazing but Giovanella informed us that we were actually eating Minestra di pane. In order to be ribollita, the soup must rest overnight so that the bread entirely soaks up the flavor of the soup. Even so, I enjoyed the dish very much! The veal and endive followed which were both delicious! The veal rolls were thinly sliced and covered with the pan juices. I am typically not a huge fan of endive but it was so tender and juicy, without any of the usual bitterness of endive. We enjoyed our mele fritte, which were amazing, with the Castello's Vin Santo. The Vin Santo was very good, some of the best I have ever tried. We enjoyed fantastic conversation with Giovanella. We laughed about the usual tourists who visit and heard her tales of traveling the world. When I asked her where her favorite place to visit, she surprised me with the answer, AMERICA!! We also discussed the state of the food in America and what a shame the mass production and processing our food goes through is. Nothing like the beauty and freshness you experience all over Italy. After we said goodbye to Giovannella, with promises to meet again, we hopped down to the wine store where we purchased a Magnum of Chianti, a bottle of Vin Santo, and multiple bottles of the rich, fruity olive oil. What a wonderful day! We giggled the entire drive home and all took short siestas in our lovely beds when we arrived. I could get used to this explore, eat, drink, sleep routine!! After we woke up and got refreshed, we hit the road again, this time headed to San Gimignano. The drive was only about an hour and we managed to not get lost! We explored the town end to end for about an hour. The entire city is laden with beautiful, white Christmas lights and looks very festive and welcoming! It has been a bit rainy but with the season comes less tourists and it makes exploring much more enjoyable. Wandering the streets surrounded by Italians just has a certain charm to it :) We dined at a restaurant recommended by our concierge called Pino. After requesting a "tavolo per sei," we were seated and served complimentary champagne. After checking out the menus, we weren't shy- most of us went all out and ordered a 3 course meal. I started with a potato soup with pancetta, topped with a poached egg and shaved truffles (I can't resist...). The soup was very good. The poached egg was absolutely beautiful! When I pierced it, the dark yellow, almost orange yolk gushed out ever so slightly. Others enjoyed the tomato soup con polpetta (octopus) which was spicy and full of flavor! For our second course, half of us ordered a Pecorina raviolini with pumpkin puree and... you guessed it- shaved truffles! The pasta seemed almost fried but was very soft and blended perfectly with the puree. YUM! H and D both ordered the garganelli with duck and served with a slice of slightly cooked lardo. All aspects combined, the dish was delightful! Dad ordered the Cici Chingiale. Honestly, the boar never fails. It is rich, bold and tender and is just fantastic! For our secondo, most of ordered the lamb topped with foie gras and served with cavolo nero. Also on the table was a guinea hen, served with cavolo ferza, salmone with olives (which was something new for me, but went quite well when mixed with the mysterious underlying sauce), and chingiale stewed with tomatoes and olives- obviously a traditional Tuscano dish. We also ordered sides of white beans, a timbale of porcini e patate, green beans (gross!)stewed in tomatoes, and arugula salad which when dressed with the local olive oil and vinegar was fresh, light and wonderful. We enjoyed some Brunello di Montalcino (always delicious) and followed our meal with Montenegro e Vin Santo. Personally, I enjoyed the Castello's Vin Santo I drank earlier in the day much more. After our meal we took the long, but pleasant, walk back to the car and headed home. We got a little lost but finally navigated our way through the countryside and made it home. All of us are loving the signs lining the streets every 10 feet in Italy with symbols like deer "2m", and arrows which point at obvious things like the road, curbs, and intersections. As always, the erratic Italian driving is a little nervewracking but I must say I am getting used to it! I am off to bed now as it is late!! I fear that if I don't blog every night I will forget the days events and I would love to have a detailed account of my trip! Tomorrow, we are journeying to another vineyard and a sausage making factory. Yum, yum and yum!! Not to mention we are getting picked up by a driver so we can enjoy the vino as much as we please, even dad :) In the morning we are heading to the butcher and the grocery store to prepare for a homemade dinner tomorrow night. I will also be posting some fun random facts about Tuscany and Chianti and some fantastic cooking tips we received from Giovannella tomorrow as well! Also look forward to some pictures!! Ciao for now. xxoCiao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-60322463301892070762009-12-27T13:08:00.000-08:002009-12-27T13:09:14.197-08:00Voi primo giorno!Ciao from Italia!! Us kiddies departed Orlando around 12:30 for our flight to NYC, then nearly missed our 8 hour flight to Roma. The flights were, as expected, hellish! Shrieking children on both and stuck taxiing in NYC for over an hour because of the weather... but WE MADE IT!! The free alcohol on our international flight definitely helped ease the pain of travel. We struggled to find mom and dad but after we finally met up with them we got in our huge Mercedes 9-seater van and hit the road! After making it out of the city, which apparently has seen a lot of growth according to my parents, we stopped at the first AGIP we saw. We loaded up on paninis (the bufalino had buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto, and arugula, and the porchetta had an incredible roasted pork on a beautiful, hearty bread) and hit the road once again! We tried to stay up for the sake of dad but since none of us got any sleep we all ended up passing out. Dad navigated on his own for a bit, quite impressively, then we all woke up again as we passed by the towering town of Sienna (where we will be spending New Year's Eve). After a couple of missed turns, we made it to a small, quaint town on top of a hill called Montereggiano. I remember this town from trips past and returning to it was a pleasant surprise. The town is surrounded by walls and at its center is a small square lined with shops, ristoranti, and gelaterias. Other then the main square, there isn't much to see besides a few streets surrounding it, but it really is a memorable place to visit. Through its walls entrances you can overlook the Tuscan countryside and it's easy to fall in love with the quiet little town. We asked for a table of 6 at a restaurant my parents frequent and the waitress answered with the typical "no" and shake of the head. After a bit more persistence, and my dad's mad Italian speaking skills we managed to put our name in- they really struggled with Ganssle so we settled for DiPasqua. We walked around the town a little, exploring the streets and peeking into some of the stores. When we sat down to eat, everyone was immediately drawn to all the plates containing tartufo. Oh tartufo, how I have missed you!! I started out with l'antipasto tartufo which included bread with a mushroom puree and shaved tartufo on top, prosciutto filled with the same, cannelini beans with shaved truffles and chingiali, wild boar sausage, all presented on beautiful radicchio leaves. There is nothing like the smell of a fresh plate of delicious food where every component includes tartufo!! Alan and Dad both got the same primo piatti as me but mom got a melanzane soufflé served over a bright red tomato coulis which was very delicious! For my secondo, I ordered bistecca con funghi porcini. The porcini mushrooms were unreal! Tender, huge, and delicious!! The steak was ok though- I don't think I will be ordering bistecca for the rest of my trip. I'll stick to chingiale which Alan and Dad both enjoyed with a rustic tomato sauce stewed with olives. It was amazingly tender and flavorful. Mom ordered pasta con tartufo which was served over a freshly baked pastry and took my breath away. Heather ordered pasta con poricini and David ordered bistecca con tartufo. On top of that, we drank two great bottles of Brunello!! Dad and I finished off a great first meal with a glass of Montenegro and Moscato D'asti. We strolled back down to the car where I realized I left my purse sitting at the restaurant. I luckily retrieved it quite easily. I even used my Italian skills with the waiter, "dimentico la mia borsa!" After the meal we were all a little sleepy but with the excitement of reaching our villa and the beautiful Tuscan countryside rushing by, we all managed to stay awake! Mom and Dad somehow were able to find the small road that leads up into the terra federale that our villa and others reside on quite easily since they have been here before. We met up with our concierge and took the bumpy ride up to our villa, "Monterotondo". There is a lot of wildlife around and on the ride up I saw a pheasant! We made it to the villa and... WOW!!! It is SO BEAUTIFUL. It sits on the top of a hill so it boasts incredible views of the Tuscan countryside. The place is huge and rustic, with beautiful tile floors, brick ceilings, marble, marble, marble and huge windows which allow the beautiful Tuscan sun to shine in! The house is a main building including the kitchen (which is SO great), the living room, and dining room. Upstairs is the master bedroom and another bedroom, where I am staying. And then there are 2 "casitas" outside the house with their own sitting areas, bathrooms and bedrooms. The house even has a beautiful infinity pool which, unfortunately, is much too cold to venture into. Our concierge had already stocked our fridge with beautiful food- proscuitti, chingiali sausage, formaggi, and verdure. We settled in, unpacked and took showers and then our pizza dough that was freshly handmade was delivered!! After most of us conked out for short naps, we woke up and made fantastic pizzas! Outside the villa, there is a huge pizza oven. Dad filled it with logs then pushed the burning embers into the back to create the perfect atmosphere for the crusty, cheesy pizzas we produced. We added prosciutto, mushrooms, garlic, buffalo mozzarella and oregano onto our pizzas laden with homemade tomato sauce and enjoyed them with yet more bottles of great wine. It was so delicious and quite enjoyable. Mom and dad passed out while the kiddies did the dishes. We ventured outside into the freezing 30 degree weather and explored the property a bit. Heather, David and Alan got to see a huge jackrabbit enjoying our back yard! Everyone is exhausted now so we are all heading to bed. Tomorrow, we are taking a tour of a vineyard and receiving cooking classes! I will be sure to post about it and will be posting pictures, which I'm taking tons of, on Facebook ASAP. xxoCiao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-52271593738002175732008-07-28T08:43:00.000-07:002008-07-28T10:09:08.766-07:00Previous Week, Venice & Vienna!Ciao!! Sorry it has been so long, I have been busy busy busy!! These last weeks are flying by. It's a whirlwind!<br />So.. last week was just school. Boring! But, we did have one big event! Aleksa, Carlyn and I went to a place called Teatro del Sale. It translates into "theatre of the salt." It is this really cool place owned by the creator of Cibreo, another really good restaurant in Firenze. So, first you pay a membership fee (5euro) and apply and it allows you into the "circle." I guess the whole concept behind the place is a group of people who love to eat, drink, and have a good time(aka me), and once you are a member you are supposed to go and share your knowledge of all that plus traveling. So, we became members of the Circle, and then went inside. For dinner, the fee is 30 euro, so we paid and went in. They also have breakfast and lunch though. There was an area full of all kinds of salts and specialty food items to buy and then a little sitting area. It was full of books including traveling books! We sat around there for a while and you could help yourself to water and wine. And then the curtains go up! You walk in and sit wherever you like. It was so cute, all of the tables and chairs were different but the theme was red and wood and they had candles, a very nice atmosphere. So you sit down and they set out all the cold antipasti. Then you go help yourself buffet style. That was amazing as is, but THEN they open up these blinds and you see into these big glass windows into the kitchen!! It was an amazing kitchen, big and open with food roasting over an open flame!!! Then this plump old chef with long curly white hair sticks his head out of a window and starts YELLING in Italian! It was so hilarious. So he would pop his head out and yell, and that meant that the next hot food was ready. There was probably 7 courses... lets see if I can remember them all :) First was a meatball with capers, yummy! 2nd was a roasted tomato and onion, 3rd was some crazy eggplant thing, 4th was a pesto pasta, 5th was a veal with tomato sauce, 6th was pork with potatoes (what was roasting over the fire all night) and 7th was coffee gelato!! Wow, I can't believe I remember! Anyway, all the while the cold food was still out. It was absolutely fabulous! The food was incredible and I was SO FULL!! So the whole time you had to go grab the food yourself (when the guy yelled) and bring up your plates to a dish counter. Then after the food, they took away all the tables and you turned your chairs around for the show. First the chef came out and talked though.. He rambled for quite a while and I tried to pick up one what he was saying.. He came out with his son who has down syndrome and it was so adorable. They were hugging the whole time and you could tell that they loved each other and made each other so happy! Anyway, he talked about his son and how he loved too cook and cooking made him so happy. I thought it was so nice. Anyway, the night we went there was a small band playing. It was a drummer, a bassist, and a singer. They played French music, tango, and jazz. They even played a Chick Corea song! It was very quirky.. but still fun to watch!!<br /><br />So.. then we left on Friday morning early for Venice. We took the train and of course slept the whole time.. from the train station we took a huge water taxi with just our group to a main port. We journeyed into Saint Mark's square where Nero gave us an incredibly long description/explanation and then went into the church. The church was very interesting because it was all mosaics. It was impossible to use frescoes inside the church because the amount of moisture in the air would ruin them, so every single picture in the church is mosaics!! It was amazing. Also, the floor was WAVY because of all the movement below the ground. It was unreal!<br />After that it was get lunch on your own. Our lunch was pretty lame. Then we went on a tour of the Guggenheim! It was very cool, we got see Picasso and some other Cubism artwork. Very nice! Anyway, then our trip was over. It was pretty cool but it wasn't really long enough. I didn't really like Venice though.. Maybe I wasn't there long enough? It was just really crowded and.. boring? Anyway, we had a quick dinner and then we got on our train ride for Vienna. We were SHOCKED when we saw the sleeper train, hahahah! For those of you who don't know its six people shoved in this shoebox room with 3 beds on each side. Anyway, once we finally got adjusted and got over the shock, we were fine. We were sharing the room with a mother and her 2 young daughters, so it wasn't too bad. The sleep was okay. I got as good of a sleep as you can on a train... We got woken up about 6 am and then got off the train. We went to our hostel and checked into our room. It was pretty crappy but.. it was only for one night. We left and went to the famous Schonbrunn Palace which is where the emperor Leopold lived with his family. The palace was enormous, supposedly with 1441 rooms, but we didn't go inside because we had so much we wanted to do! We went to this cute little cafe, which was very Viennese, and had a cute little traditional lunch. Then we went and saw an Apfelstreudel demonstration which was hilarious. They picked Carlyn to go up and help and it was so funny! Then we went into the back "garden" which was ENORMOUS and hiked up the hill to these huge stone arcs. Apparently Leopold had them built for his wife. The view from the top was amazing, it was the Palace and all of Vienna laid out behind it! Then we hiked back down and went to the zoo. It was wonderful, the best zoo I've ever been to. They had elk, polar bears, seals, marine life, bears, monkeys, lions, koalas, seriously anything you can imagine. And they had pandas and the baby panda (born last year) is the first panda born in captivity in Europe since 1982! It was incredible and all of the settings were very natural and not caged in. We spent hours there! Then we went home to our lovely hostel, showered, and went to dinner at some boring place. After dinner we took the U to a little theme park. They had tons of rides and we acted like little kids, running around and riding them all! There was a huge Ferris Wheel which is ancient and has been there for ages, but we decided not to ride it because it was 8euro a person and we are cheapies. After that we just went to a quaint little bar by our hostel and had a few drinks. Sunday morning we woke up and had a delicious breakfast (ham and eggs!!! and fresh squeezed orange juice) and then went to the museum quartier which is just an area FILLED with museums. First we went to the Natural History museum which was incredible! We spent way too long in there, but they had everything! All these rocks and meteorites and taxidermed animals! After that we went to a museum called the Albertini which is famous for its artwork. We got to see one of Monet's "lily pad" paintings and some Picasso. The gallery was amazing because it was all a couple's private collection that they donated. Then we had no time left and had to leave. We took the U to the train station and had another lovely overnight ride. This time though, the lady who was supposed to ride with us FREAKED OUT over claustrophobia and wouldn't get on the train so we got it all alone to the 3 of us! Needless to say, it was much more comfortable. So, we arrived back in Florence at about 6:30 this morning. Although I was exhausted, it was so good to be back! For my first class this morning we went and hiked the duomo. Amazing I have been here this long and it was my first time hiking it! But, the view was amazing of course and I learned some cool stuff about it from my friend who is in Art History.<br />So, that is everything that's new. I'm going to Cortemilia this weekend and possibly London. We are trying to plan a trip now but its a bit last minute so we'll see how it works out!! LOVE YOU ALL AND MISS YOU! Just think.. less than 2 weeks till I'm home!!<br />xoxoxoxoxo<br /><h2><a name="Liechtenstein"></a></h2>Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-22947602616186590272008-07-21T07:08:00.000-07:002008-07-21T07:35:36.846-07:00Capri and SorrentoCiao! Well, this weekend was amazing. Our trip started out at the train station where we met and got picked up by a bus. Most of the people from our group ended up going so the majority of kids were from FSU. We took the train ride overnight but had to stop and pick up our friend Eric because he mistakenly booked his trip from Rome instead of Florence! It was so funny, when he finally got on the bus we all clapped. Finally we got to Sorrento at about 3 in the morning and we were all exhausted. We stayed in a hotel called 7 and it is only about a month old. It was my first hostel experience so I was pretty spoiled because this place was so nice!! It was brand new and the bathrooms and rooms were all nice. We had 10 girls in our room, but they were all from our apartment, so we're used to living together. Anyway, they had a courtyard and a huge rooftop porch which were so nice! We all went to sleep when we got back and then had to meet at 8:15 in the morning for our Capri trip. We had breakfast at the hostel, which was complimentary, and then walked down to the marina where we caught a ferry to Capri. When we got there, we took a boat to the Blue Grotto and went in! It was so beautiful and we actually got to swim inside. The water was so cool and blue, it was amazing!! The guy driving us even sang as we left. My camera got a little wet though and it's not working anymore so I am going to have to rely on other people for pictures which is a huge dissapointment :( My friend Aleksa is an amazing photographer though and she has one of those awesome cameras, so at least I know I'll get good pictures. After we left the grotto, our boat took the long way around Capri, so we got to see some of the famous landmarks and the whole island. When we got back to the marina, we took the funiculare (spelling?) up to the actual city of Capri and had lunch. Lunch was good, we had a glass of wine and got to look at all the gorgeous Italian men serving us the whole time! Then we took a bus up to Ana Capri and jumped on the chair lift. The views were of course, GORGEOUS! When we got back down to Capri we just laid out on the beach until it was time to leave. We took the ferry back to Sorrento and all 38 of us literally CRAMMED on the bus. It was ridiculously crowded, and the few Italians on there hated us, lol. We got back to the hostel and fought for showers then had dinner there. They had a pretty good selection for very cheap. But the food turned out to be.. not so good. Oh well! It was pretty late by the time we finished so we just grabbed drinks at the bar (at the hostel!) and went up to the roof to just hang out.<br />The next morning we had to meet at 10 and we got on a bus to go to Positano. We went to the beach and it was all rocks, it was amazing! There was tons of Italians there, definitely a very busy time of year for the beach, but it was still nice. We walked to another beach and had lunch and hung out there for a little longer. Then we rented these awesome speed boats and we drove out to this HUGE rock in the middle of the ocean. You had to first pull yourself onto the rock and then literally climb and hug it to get to the top. Then WE JUMPED OFF!!! It was amazing. The first drop was only about 10 feet but you could climb up higher and there was a 32 foot drop! I jumped off the first one a few times and it was very exhilirating but I finally got myself to do the 32 foot one. I knew I just had to do it fast, so I just went to edge and jumped! It was INCREDIBLE. I got the worst wedgie of my life, but it was totally worth it! I have never done anything like that and it was crazy!! Then once we jumped in we just floated around in the HUGE waves and watched other people jump. It was so amazing. We finally got back on the boats and headed back to the beach and hung out until it was time to leave. We took the ferry back to Sorrento and then crammed on a bus AGAIN to go back to the hostel. It was a fight for the showers again and we grabbed a pizza from down the street. We were supposed to go into Sorrento for the night, but with a group so large, nothing can move quickly and it ended up getting too late. So, once again, we just drank on the roof. We met some British friends and just hung out up there all night.<br />Sunday morning we had to wake up early again. We got on the bus and headed to Pompeii. Everyone in the group went on a guided tour, but I chose not to go because I've been there so many times, and I saved 20 euro! I ended up going with the guy who was in charge of the whole trip into "new Pompeii" and just walking around exploring. It was nice to see new Pompeii, cause you only ever see the touristy area. It was small and very quiet!<br />We got back on the bus and made it to Florence around 10 pm. On the way home from the train station, we got lost and had to ask for help twice! It was all in good fun though as we know we're learning more and more about the city by getting lost!<br />So, that's all that's new. More class today, of course. Classes are going well, I got a 91 on my Italian midterm! But it's still boring when you're in Firenze to go to class.<br />Thinking about leaving this place is making me sad! It is really becoming like home, and I am making such great friends. I am going to try to make the most of the rest of my time though. We are trying to book a hotel for Vienna right now! Next week we are going to Venice for the day on Friday with FSU and then Carlyn, Aleksa and I are heading off on our own to Vienna, Austria. We have an overnight train ride (with beds!) booked friday night and then we have 2 full days and one night in Vienna, and then another overnight train ride sunday night. Needless to say, I'm sure I will be EXHAUSTED monday morning for class, but you only live once!!!<br />Hope everyone enjoyed my picture updates. I am going to post Roma asap. Love you all and miss you!! xoxCiao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-37770180131915509642008-07-17T06:14:00.000-07:002008-07-17T06:23:11.729-07:00I love youu all!Hey everyone. I am soo tired. I just had a midterm today and a huge paper due. We are leaving for Capri in a couple of hours and I haven't even packed yet! Leaving tonight and we won't be back until Sunday night at 12! We are staying at a hostel in Sorrento and then taking a day trip to Capri and on our way home stopping in Pompeii. This week wasn't too eventful just school shit going on. But one interesting thing.. my writing teacher is having a huge article come out in this month's (august) issue of Esquire about the recent college shooting. It's a big deal! So, if you want to check it out pick up the mag, his name is David Vann. And you can check out his website as well, www.davidvann.com. I have been cooking a lot. Monday night we had chicken involtini from one of the recipe books I checked out from the library. It was chicken rolled up stuffed with chicken, rosemary, and fontina. Then I made a white wine sauce and put it on top with a peice of italian bread and spinach. Tuesday night I made chicken with prosciutto, sage and fontina with another sauce and spinach. Then on the side I made panzanella which is a bread tomato salad. It was delicious! I'll try to update asap. Sorry I am slacking! I love you all and miss you!!!! I put pictures up of Cinqueterre, so enjoy. I am trying to update with San Giminano and Volterra. I'm so far behind!!! looooveCiao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-43547612623372956812008-07-13T08:59:00.001-07:002008-07-13T08:59:51.433-07:00Roma!Ciao! Well Rome was (surprise, surprise) AMAZING! We woke up at the crack of dawn and met at our usual meeting place to get on the bus. I pretty must slept the whole ride there. When we arrived we checked into our hotel. The rooms were so funny! They had 3 twin beds in them! And they were all completely different. Anyway, they were pretty decent. After we checked in we grabbed a quick lunch and met up for our trip to the Vatican. It was soo hot and waiting in line with crowds of people was painful but we finally got in. We walked through the meseum part pretty quickly but there were so many people it took a while. When we finally got there it was of course incredible. The day before our teacher (Nero) had given us a lecture all about the artwork we would see and he gave us two detailed handouts about the Sistine Chapel. It was so neat looking up and being able to spot everything and point it out and actually know what it meant! Anyway, it was so quiet but then of course they had the guards yelling "SILENCIO. NO PHOTOS," over and over. I got an amazing picture but then got kicked out for taking pictures.. whoops! Then we split up and everyone went to check out St Peter's Basilica. It was so beautiful and once again we had the handout with the descriptions. We headed into one of the side chapels and just when we went in a monk came out and started singing, it was incredible! We left the Vatican and went back to the hotel to take showers and whatnot. I took a nap :)Then we had a huge group dinner! It started with homeade pasta with a simple red sauce that was so good. Then we had saltimbucco and they served a whole bunch of fried veggies.. zucchini, artichokes, zucchini flowers, and even rice balls! It was so yummy and very fun. Then as a group most of us went to Trevi fountain and made our wishes. We just walked around a little bit and then went home. In the morning we went downstairs for breakfast and then walked to the Roman Forum. We got the most incredible tour from Nero who told us the meaning of every little ruin. We saw the place where Caesar was cremated, it was so awesome. Then we walked around more, and saw some sites. We went to the Pantheon last and then broke for individual lunch. We went to this salad place and Carlyn got a bug in her salad, so they offered to give her something else and then charged her for it! Haha, damn cheap Italians! Anyway, after lunch we took a bus to the Catacombs. It was so eerie. It was so cold underground and they had all the little baby graves eek! You could even see your breath! But, we got to see the coolest thing. There is one grave which they think belonged to a martyr but theyre not sure. Anyway, there are frescoes next to it and above it and they are ORGINAL and haven't been restored and you can still make out a lot of the details. It was amazing. Anyway, we went home after that. The drive was hellish as everyone insisted on SINGING for most of the journey. We went out last night to Naima because it is their last night before they close! We are all very sad. But, we had fun for the most part. This morning most of us woke up and went to American brunch! I got eggs and "bacon," (really pancetta) and a glass of fresh squeezed orange juice! Then we did a little shopping because everything is on SALDI right now! It's so wonderful. Now I'm in the study center. I uploaded some pics and I'm still trying but it's really difficult. When everyone is on the internet at once in the study center it goes really slow and my uploads usually fail. But, I'm still trying! I'm going to try and call today but I don't have minutes right now so it depends on whether or not the stores are open. Anyway, if I don't speak to you fam, happy family day.Love and miss everyone!Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-63749074022560649472008-07-10T07:18:00.000-07:002008-07-10T07:29:53.360-07:00Ying Yang Twins/What else is newI am the study center after class and I'm sooo happy my school week is over! It has been a long, but fun week. The concert on Tuesday night turned out to be only ok. The club it was at was very cool, it was all outdoors and very modern and chic. We got into VIP somehow which was right in front of the stage. The only bad thing was drinks were 10 euro each, so no one was crazy enough to drink! When they finally came on around 1 in the morning they only performed for a little while. It was pretty much all of their songs condensed into one long thing. Then their DJ just performed and played all these American songs and everyone danced. So, it was fun, just not as fun as I was expecting.<br />Wednesday morning I had to wake up earrly for class but it was a good day. We met for class at Palazzo Pitti which is a museum and it also houses the Boboli gardens. We had class out in the Boboli gardens and the lecture was only 30 minutes. Then we got to walk around and separated. I checked out the costume part of the museum which was VERY cool! Then I went and had lunch with a few people from my class and then had Italian. After class I took the longest nap ever!! Everyone in our apartment was sleeping at the same time for 2-3 hours. It was pretty funny! Last night we just headed to dinner, thinking it would be casual. Anyway, that idea flew out the window when we found a really cute restaurant and I checked out the wine list. I ended up getting a 2003 Brunello and ordering a 4 course meal. I started with duck carpaccio with a fig reduction and fresh figs. Next I had Spaghetti Carbonara which was amazing! For secondi I had lamb with "aromatic bread crumbs" and potatoes. Last I had a cheese plate with two kinds of Pecorino and honey, plus a glass of Vin Santo. Then the waitress brought us complimentary dessert wine! AND refilled it! Plus they gave us a discount. Needless to say we loved it and they loved us so we'll definitely be going back there. My friends kept cracking up at me because I was so giggly and happy all night from such an incredible meal. I'm saving all the cards from my favorite restaurants so anyone who visits can go!!<br />Anyway, I just slept in this morning and had Italian this afternoon. Everyone is in the study center waiting on a lecture about the Vatican because on our tour tomorrow he isn't going to be able to speak inside. We leave Firenze at 7:15 so I'm super psyched about waking up at 6 am. I'll take plenty of pictures and be thinking of you all! I'll try to put more pictures up soon. LOVE YOU ALL AND MISS YOU!<br />When you go to the house pet Bean for me :)Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-20881721571563812402008-07-08T02:56:00.001-07:002008-07-08T03:21:04.503-07:00AHHH!I know it's been almost a week since I wrote last but I have been SO busy and now our internet is down in the house. So I'm at the study center right now before class.. It's going to be so hard to write because it's been forever but I'll try to be as detailed as possible!<br />Thursday.. I had Italian. I can't really remember much else from Thursday. I guess it wasn't too exciting?<br />Anyway, Friday was our trip to San Giminano and Volterra. We got on one of those "tour buses" and headed up to Volterra first. It was so amazing and of course Nero (the teacher) led the tour. We got to see the whole city and some amazing Estruscan art. After that we headed to San Giminano but stopped for a group lunch right outside the city. It was a beautiful restaraunt and we ate outside. Vegetable lasagna to start and some amazing chicken! After Volterra we went to San Giminano. We had a group tour and then we had free time to do whatever we wanted. I just went and had a glass of white wine, which San Giminano is supposedly famous for, with my friend Carlyn.<br />We took the bus home and didn't do much although it was July 4th. Another apartment was having a little grill out/party but I was so pooped so I didn't go.<br />Saturday morning we woke up realll early and we went to Cinqueterre!! We took a train through Pisa and started out in Monterosso, the "last city." We hiked to the next city and it was INCREDIBLE. We were hiking on the side of a mountain on these teeny paths with the whole Medditeranean laid out in front of us. It was really intense but definitely worth it. When we made it to the next city we were ALL ready to jump in the ocean. There was this concrete "cliff" so to speak and the waves would come crashing up onto it and then fall literally 10 feet below. All the Italians were jumping in these HUGE waves and then they would let the ocean carry them back onto cliff. It was ridiculous. I finally jumped in even though I was scared but I definitely chose to use the ladder instead of the crazy way. It was still pretty hard though because if you didn't swim fast enough or time it right there was a lovely bed of rocks waiting for you. Doing it the "Italian way" was the type of thing that you could tell only the kids who had been doing it since they were 12 could actually accomplish. It was really one of the craziest things I have ever seen!! We had lunch there and I went with seafood and it was horrible and overpriced :( Huge dissapointment. Then we hiked to the next town. It was SUCH an intense hike, pretty much all uphill stairs. The next city was really pretty, although there was no beach. I took tons of pictures and will try to post them soon.. After our last hike we took a train home. We were soo tired and coated with sweat. But it was definitely an incredible day! Saturday night we went to a bar called "21," which was fun. It was student night and they have dancing so it was great to see all the kids dancing. The Italian boys are so funny here! They love to dance by themselves and show off, it cracked me up.<br />Sunday was pretty laid back. A few of us put our bathing suits on and went out to the Arno and laid out with all the Italians. I'm sure they loved us blasting our American music and throwing the football around, lol. It was pretty much my "get stuff done day" after that as I had homework and cleaning to do.<br />Yesterday I had my two classes. I had to write my first paper for travel and adventure writing. I was really nervous because we had to read it in front of the whole class, but it was alright. It was very helpful! It was only 2 pages and it's supposed to be a "rough draft" for one of our 2 big papers. Anyway, we went out again last night to another dancing bar and a lot of people from other apartments joined us as well so it was pretty fun..<br />You wouldn't belive it but tonight I'm going to see Ying Yang Twins hahahahah! The concert is only 15 euro, so it's definitely worth it. Who ever thought, Ying Yang Twins in Firenze! I'm very excited. Also, our Rome trip is this weekend so I can't wait!<br /><br />Sorry it was pretty brief. I've got some Italian homework to finish. Love you all and MISS YOU TONS! Less than a month till I'm home :)Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-23007137418512579002008-07-02T15:31:00.000-07:002008-07-02T15:40:20.337-07:00Past few days..Ciao all! Let's see... I know it's been two whole days since I posted but not much has been going on. Class keeps us very busy! Tuesday morning we went to Mercato Centrale. It was so amazing and we got lots of good veggies, some dried fruits (they had kiwi, papaya, cocunut, ginger!), some homeade pesto, and some chicken. After Mercato Centrale my friend Carlyn and I went to lunch at this amazing place that has about 12 different paninis and they are all sooo good. We went two days in a row! Then I had class again. Tuesday night we didn't do much. I made dinner again.. chicken with the homeade pesto, asparagus and fresh tomato salad. ("The most amazing thing i have ever put in my mouth. It melted immediately." --Carlyn)<br />I had a TON of homework in Italian and it's been really difficult. Today I had class in the morning and then class in the afternoon. I got to go to the writing class for the first time today.. It's called "adventure and travel writing." It sounds great. Actually one of the books we were looking at an excerpt from today, I'm reading right now called the shipping news.. mom you would know it! Anyway, I'm very excited about that class!! After class a few of us went to Palazzo Pitti and looked at the beautiful artwork. I was pretty pooped so I took a siesta. Tonight, a few friends and I went to dinner at the restaraunt we went to the first night. It was so good again, and I'm teaching all of my friends Italian! They loved us there and even brought us complimentary Limoncello before we left. It's on the other side of the river and the food is SO good! Then we brought a bottle of wine outside and enjoyed the Arno and the beautiful weather. It is cool and windy.<br />Anyway, that's all for now! If anyone wants to ever talk to me you can call me and I'll SKYPE you immediately! LOVE YOU ALL AND MISS YOU!!Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-9859166698212139732008-06-30T14:37:00.001-07:002008-06-30T14:37:15.156-07:00Arno!<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27307665@N05/2626186682/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3141/2626186682_43a985d5a1_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27307665@N05/2626186682/">DSC03218</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/27307665@N05/">lag06c</a></span></div>Ciao! I'm having a lot of trouble posting pics but here is one and you can link to the other 3 I posted.<br clear="all" />Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3904853548788219450.post-53415369863681129332008-06-30T08:11:00.000-07:002008-06-30T08:31:33.652-07:00Saint Miniato a Monte and first day of classes!Ciao!<br />Well, I haven't written in a while so a lot has happened! On saturday after our trip, our RA showed up. She's very nice, and only a couple years older than us. Plus, she has been here for over a year so she knows all the good places to go! We went out to a great dinner saturday night. I had this incredible appetizer, it was Pecorino baked with prosciutto on top and truffle oil. SOOO GOOD! And then I had tortellini with prosciutto and tomato creme sauce. Definitely one of the more memorable meals so far. After that we went to the bar our RA works at, called Naima. It was really nice, and great to be away from all the tourists. It's a very relaxed environment and the drinks aren't too expensive. We went to some other bars but they were overwhelming.. lots of tourists and creepy Italian guys. But it was still fun to try out some new places.<br />Sunday we took the walk up to Saint Miniato a Monte (a church). What a walk!! It was so hot and tiring, but definitely worth it when we got to the top. We had the same teacher/tour guide, so it was great and we learned a lot! I realized that my neck does have some drawbacks because it started hurting pretty bad after staring at all the ceiling frescoes. It was worth it though! Our teacher explains every little detail about the paintings. I never knew how much meaning they had. It is literally like every detail in every painting has significance.<br />After our tour, my friend Carlyn and I just walked to Piazza Michaelangelo and enjoyed the INCREDIBLE view. We got some gelato, cioccolata arancia, AMAZING! Then we went down the mountain a completely different way and ended up finding this rose garden. I'm always trying to explore so I really get to know the city. Since Miniato is across the river, we explored a bit, and found some good looking restaraunts and bars. We are going to try to explore more on the opposite side because we've heard really good things about it.<br />Saturday night we went to a pizza place and then went to Naima again to watch the game. It was fun although the game was pretty uneventful.. On our walk home we happened to come across the empty market with the boar statue so we made a random guy take pictures, haha! This morning we had class at the crack of dawn. It was soo hard to get up at 8. My first class was Italian life and culture. I barely made it through because it was soooo boring! It's more of a history lesson, which is not exactly what I signed up for. The teacher was droning on for what seemed like forever. My second class was Italian II which was great. I'm really excited about that class!! Anyway, I ended up dropping my Italian culture class and instead I'm taking a writing class which is like a traveling features class. It teaches you to write about places you travel and what not. We have to write two huge papers, but we don't have any exams. I'm really excited, I think it is going to be great! Anyway, we just went to the grocery store and tonight we're cooking dinner! Pasta mm :) Plus I got some arugula for salad and a bottle of Chianti! I'm really getting the grocery shopping thing down, so I'm not feeling like as much of a stupid American. There is a ballet tonight in one of the squares and tomorrow night an orchestra is playing Beethoven's 8th. I'm definitely going tomorrow night, but I'm not sure about tonight. I'm pooped from class all day! I will definitely update to let everyone know how it was though! Tomorrow I don't have class until 1, so me and Carlyn plan on going to Mercato Centrale in the morning. I'm SOOO excited!!<br />Anyway, I'm going to attempt to upload my pictures in uno momento. YAY!! Love you all and miss you!Ciao Bella!http://www.blogger.com/profile/17639912167491139712noreply@blogger.com0