synchronicity

ABC Wednesday: B is for Beantown!

2012-01-24T17:48:00.005-05:00

What else could it be? Boston, Beantown, Home of the Bruins, Red Sox and hopefully soon-to-be Patriots football team! Boston, capital of Massachusetts. Ex-governor Romney running for president. Home of Boston College (yeah!) - the only college football program most represented with college grads on each of the 2 teams vying for the Super Bowl.

PS: Wish there were a way to add music to this blog. Oh well, this will have to suffice:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iARe58XFGuU&feature=related

PhotoHunt: Bliss

2012-01-21T20:38:00.004-05:00

Thanks, K, for the nudge in getting me back with this photohunt blog too! From one to three photo entries per week -should keep me motivated. This week's theme is bliss. I could use the same photo that I used for 'bling' because after all it would be blissful if the Red Sox won another World Series this year, but I chose instead one of our favorite places to drop in when visiting Chicago. It's right on the river and pretty funky, The Purple Pig. Not only are the drinks good, the food - well, interesting - but most of all the people are the friendliest and heart-warming souls. Can't wait to get back there again.

PhotoHunt: Bling

2012-01-20T16:50:00.004-05:00

Boston's beloved Red Sox team (well, beloved here with the exception of last year's play) has won two World Series Championships recently: 2004, when they finally broke the curse of the "Bambino" - Babe Ruth - and 2007. It was a truly fun time in Boston sport history.

My 'bling' this week is courtesy of an older gentlemen who has worked at Fenway Park, home to the Red Sox, for over 50 years. I took Ty on the Fenway Park tour last year and met him.

ABC Wednesday: A is for Architrave

2012-01-19T14:52:00.006-05:00

ABC Round 10 here I come! I'm joining in the fun. A is for Architrave. Here's one on the Parthenon in Rome. Love this building's architecture. The word 'architrave' is a derivative to two words - one from Greek and one from Latin (how apropos) meaning 'main beam'.

To see more cool posts, please visit Mrs. Nesbitt's ABC WEDNESDAY website. You can find it at http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.com/.

PhotoHunt: Circular

2012-01-15T20:54:00.003-05:00

Maybe it's because I'm hungry! Oh, and of course, the ball sculpture from London!

PhotoHunt: Bling

2012-01-09T09:28:00.002-05:00

While i was in New York City's Union Square, I came upon this statue of Andy Warhol -- I think he could be the King of Bling in this statue....

PhotoHunt: Gather

2011-12-31T22:25:00.003-05:00

A few years ago I vacationed in Naples, Florida. Spent the day shell seeking. Here's what I gathered. Yes, they are broken shells. I find these sometimes tell stories.....

PhotoHunt; Surprise

2011-12-28T21:55:00.005-05:00

OK--here's the OTHER photohunt, and again apologies for being so late. These fingers have been knitting up a few last minute things and are a little sore to be typing. Here's my surprise photo. It's my neighbor's grandchild. I know i've used it before, but I love her childish expression of surprise! And, I just had to post the other picture -- my other neighbor. Isn't he a cutie?

PHotoHunt: Lights

2011-12-28T21:50:00.003-05:00

How LATE am I? How about the neon lights of Times Square?

Seems like the past week has flown by just like the rest of this year. New Year's resolution: slow down and smell the petunias. Happy 2012 everyone! PS: New year's resolution #2: Be a better blogger.

PhotoHunt: Joy

2011-12-17T21:38:00.004-05:00

I'm confused - I think there are two PhotoHunts going on so I'll join in both of them. This theme, Joy, is from Whistlestop's blog, who is taking over for Tnchick.

My photo is Venice's gondolas. I remember the first time I saw Venice. As I approached, I couldn't stop smiling as THIS was a place that looked exactly as every photo I had seen. Such JOY!.

PhotoHunt: Natural

2011-12-16T22:51:00.003-05:00

Ah, Sedona. Brings to mind meditation, spirituality, and red rocks! Palakwapi, the Hopi word for "place in the red rocks," Sedona is sort of a gateaway to the Grand Canyon Park on one end. It's a place I intend to get back to next year.

This photo was taken in 2003 I think. Hard to believe almost 9 years ago. If you look closely you can see the empty beer bottle in the tree. Well, the scenery is a natural wonder anyway!

PhotoHunt; Christmas Decoration

2011-12-09T19:15:00.006-05:00

Before I post my selections, i would like to "thank" everyone for not letting this fabulous, at times trying, exercise expire. Mahalo!

Now, I had a hard time finding just one photo, as Christmas is a very favorite season for me and a prelude to many family birthdays. Let the celebrations begin! I have posted a photo of my adopted (from my daughter) cat, Lilly, who loves Christmas almost as much as I: some vintage Christmas ball ornaments taken at Newburyport in an antique auction house, and a wreath that decorates my garden gate.

Enjoy your weekend!

Venice

2011-12-01T22:46:00.004-05:00

I'm putting this link here for those of you not on Facebook. Some may recognize some of these 'characters' - furry ones too (Annie)!
http://vimeo.com/32740428

Sorry, I've been a bad blogger lately. Hopefully my life will deccelerate soon!

PhotoHunt; Wet/Rain

2011-11-20T15:28:00.003-05:00

Ty and I spent a few days in Chicago last month - the first was a rain deluge. But, that didn't stop us although we were a little soggy by day's end. Here we are at "The Bean" in Millennium Park. If you look closely, you can see the rain drips off the side of the structure.

PhotoHunt: Two

2011-11-11T21:33:00.007-05:00

Since I've been in the process of connecting cousins together, family has been on my mind. Hence, the twosomes are family photos. The graduates are now one-year newlyweds having graduated from UF; the other two photos are cousins. I assume in many families such as ours, the younger cousins just can't get enough time with their favorite cousins.

PhotoHunt: Sicily

2011-11-04T22:35:00.002-04:00

Thought I would stay in Sicily for this week's post too. This is a shot of a Sicilian sunset - the last light of the day. This is one time I actually have truly scrolled through my Sicily photos and found some satisfaction with them. When I returned from my Sicilian trip, I was diagnosed with Legionnaire's Disease. Looking back, I was probably sick when I was on the trip too because I do remember not having a lot of energy during my 7 day stay on the island. Anyway, it is a wonderfully enriching place, lovely people and eye catching scenery - of course - beaucoup history as well from all the conquering lands in its history.

PhotoHunt; Broken

2011-10-29T08:18:00.004-04:00

Broken as in 'ruin'.

The Greek amphitheater in Taormina, Sicily. Amid the Roman ruins of the island, this ruin certainly harks back to the Hellenistic period and demonstrates the Greek influence on this southern area of the Italian peninsula/island. In its day used as an amphitheater for oratory and by gladiators as a sport. Mount Etna can be viewed from here as much of Taormina is overshadowed by this active volcano.

PhotoHunt: High

2011-10-23T14:37:00.002-04:00

High on the top floor of the university in Rome (a perk of working for a university), I was treated to Rome at twilight. It was a special treat to see the domes of Rome from this vantage point.

PhotoHunt; Waiting

2011-10-08T22:59:00.005-04:00

While in Chicago to celebrate my son's birthday, we took in the architectural tour via Chicago's Fair Lady on the Chicago River. Our day began, waiting for the train.

Fortunately, the air show was going on that same weekend so we waited to catch a glimpse of the Blue Angels and their supersonic stints. There were many 'missed' opportunity as well as many blue sky (only) shots. But here are a few that made the wait worthwhile.

PhotoHunt: Covered

2011-09-30T14:04:00.003-04:00

This photo was taken in San Gimignano. The twins were playing tag and one ran under cover of the doorway arch. When the other tagged her, the door opened unexpectedly and the one twin stopped the other from tumbling into the house.

We enlarged this and have it framed in our house. It was one of those times when the camera was 'ready' and the spontaneity was so evident.These two girls were precious!

Woods Hole, Massachusetts

2011-09-26T19:20:00.009-04:00

Woods Hole - part of Falmouth on Cape Cod but really it's an entity all of its own.

Woods Hole, home of the world-reknown Oceanographic Institute.

To athletes, it's the start of the Falmouth Road Race, a qualifier for marathons.

To those vacationing to Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket, it's the spot one races to secure a place on the ferry over to the islands. This ferry is oversubscribed in much the same way as the road race is each summer.

To locals, out of season, Woods Hole is a step back in time and a breath waiting to exhale. The main street runs through this miniscule section of Falmouth and is sometimes interrupted by the draw bridge that allows the sailboat masts to pass from the harbor into the Sound. It's home to Pie in the Sky, a casually disguised gourmet eatery, where you order much like a sandwich shop and await your order in the heat of the screened entrance or step out and hosey a table near the street.

PhotoHunt: Yellow

2011-09-24T23:33:00.003-04:00

This sunset was taken in Kauai last April (ah, seems soooo very long ago) at Barking Sands Beach, a remote and privately held land. We were fortunate to know someone in the Navy and there was an open cabin for the day. We were treated to this wonderful and lifetime memory. Nature in her all her glory.

Barking Sands is a beach on the island of Kauaʻi in the US state of Hawaiʻi. It is the location of Pacific Missile Range Facility, a rocket launch site and also an official Missile Defense Testing Area, both controlled by the United States Navy. It is no longer an actively used site for missile launches although there is a high degree of privacy on that stretch of beach. Why is it that the military owns some of the most beautiful scenery in the Hawaiian Islands and restricts access to the public! (Rhetorical question)

Salada Tea

2011-09-17T00:01:00.009-04:00

This month I have taken Friday's off - which is a usual day off for Ty - and we have decided to make this a 'day trip' day, and get us out of the house's renovations. We were suppose to visit Portsmouth NH but due to phone calls and morning delays - well, we didn't want to make the trek of over an hour to reach our destination. Having remembered seeing enormous bronze doors from the now defunct Salada Tea Company on one of our evening jaunts a year or so back (when I was sans camera), we decided to venture off to see these mammoth masterpieces. So, with thoughts of seeing these doors up close and personal, we made our way to downtown Boston.

Upon our arrival we were met with construction men and hats. Even trying to conjole the construction workers to admit us into us into a hard hat zone, we unfortunately found this sign. Disappointed we moved on to our Plan B - the Museum of Fine Arts (another post for another day!).

I did manage to find some photos from the net which might give you an idea (albeit these photos do not do justice to the massive glory of these bronzes) of these hidden gems in Boston.

"The Salada Tea Company’s original U.S. headquarters and manufacturing plant, built on Stuart Street in 1917, incorporated ornate and enormous doors designed by British sculptor Henry Wilson in 1927. Twelve feet tall, weighing in at two tons, the doors depict the cultivation of tea in Ceylon, now known as Sri Lanka."

PhotoHunt: Wooden

2011-09-15T22:02:00.002-04:00

A slight diversion - what's with the new layout in blogger? Don't they know I need a bit of a learning curve?This week's theme is wooden. Here are a few wooden boat winches (not wenches!) taken last week in an open-air 'antique' barn. I can only imagine the size of the boat, or rather ship, these were attached to.

PhotoHunt: Wrong

2011-09-02T20:25:00.003-04:00

Found this topic a tad difficult. In this photo, the then defensive coach now head coach looks as if his message is 'wrong play' or 'wrong maneuver'. Would not like to feel the wrath of this coach, although it has been said he is really a nice man!

PhotoHunt: Symbolic

2011-08-26T23:01:00.003-04:00

Section 42, row 37, seat 21 of Fenway Park.

This seat in right field was painted red to commemorate famed Red Sox Ted Williams' historic home run. It was 1946 and his homerun the longest homer in the history of the park. At the time, this gargantuan blast landed in actual bleacher seats and not as the seats we know housed at Fenway.

In any event it symbolizes just one little jigsaw piece of the Red Sox history.

PhotoHunt: Drink

2011-08-22T22:28:00.004-04:00

A little late - Spent a long weekend in the fantabulous city of Chicago. First night was, of course, beer and deep dish pizza!

PhotoHunt: One

2011-08-15T14:27:00.004-04:00

One Native American runner amid the 11,000+ at the Falmouth Road Race this weekend. It's an annual road race and an annual family event. This year there were only family 7 runners. One year we had 11. Next year they will run as a team.

My daughter registered and ran as my 72 year old sister (only residents can run if you don't make the qualifications) and Julie placed first in her category! HAHA! Of course, we couldn't let that go without a bit of ribbing so my niece's husband called my sister and said he was from New Balance (this year's sponsor) and wanted to set up an interview with her for running the race in a little over 1 hour (close to the record in that age group) and the first woman in that age category from Falmouth. We had her going for a while. She tried to break into his congratulations by telling the truth, but he kept on congratulating her.

PhotoHunt: Painted

2011-08-07T21:27:00.004-04:00

Mea culpa for not being more present on these blogs over the last few months. It just seems life was going at warp-speed and deadlines - both personal and professionally - got in the way! But, I hope to catch up with all my blogging buddies and hope you are all well.

Since it's summer, the Cape is my destination most weekends. Appropriately, here are the gingerbread houses of Martha's Vineyard - San Francisco has her 'painted ladies' and the East Coast has the painted gingerbread houses along the harbor roads on Martha's Vineyard, bearing the colorful names of "Angel Cottage," "Wooden Valentine," and "The Pink House", to name just a few. Here are a few examples of these cottages.

PhotoHunt: Dirty

2011-06-04T08:19:00.002-04:00

Dirty clothes dried Italian style. Clothes on a line, especially in Italy, is a favorite subject matter for shooting. I was actually in Siena and on the street that St. Catherine lived when I shot this photo last year. Last year? Seems like a lifetime ago at this moment.

Hope you all can enjoy a sun-filled weekend.

PhotoHunt: Looking Down

2011-05-29T20:37:00.002-04:00

Down of course for the New York subway! Sorry I haven't been around lately...family matters have kept me from personal time to unwind. I was hoping this 4 day weekend would be restful but alas, it's not. Hope you are all able to enjoy this weekend and remember the veterans!

PhotoHunt: Missing

2011-05-14T16:57:00.005-04:00

Here's a part of the The Parthenon Marbles collection at the British Museum. Noticeably, some limbs are missing from the stone wall reliefs. This exhibit has been housed at the National Museum since the early 19th century and was more informally known as the Elgin Marbles, after Lord Elgin, a British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, who absconded with these reliefs and sculptures from the Parthenon in Greece. However, since the 1980's the Greek government has called for the return of their missing ancient artworks. The debate is still ongoing over who is the rightful owner of these Marbles.

Dances with Luigi

2011-05-11T17:18:00.000-04:00

This blog sometimes turns into a book review corner. But I wanted to share with my fellow Italiophiles a book I am presently reading.

Somewhere, I think it was the Slow Travel board, the reference to a book, Dances with Luigi, prompted me to catalog this title in my mind. I am now in the middle of this wonderfully enlightening book. Enlightening because it articulates a clearer understanding of how *maybe WHY would be a better description* I was raised in a first-generation Italian family.

Dances with Luigi was written by Paul Paolicelli, a news reporter turned author, who travels back to his ancestral roots. Although much of his wonderfully eloquent descriptions of Rome weave throughout the book, his travels through southern Italy are more poignant.

I find it refreshing to see an American's point of view evolve into an appreciation and understanding of how past political events fashioned the fabric of Italian families. And was equally surprised to find answers to trivial questions I had in my mind while traveling Italy: Crossroads were considered spiritual places in ancient Rome - one reason for decorating make-shift altars and shrines at intersections in Italy today. Upon his request, Raphael was buried in the walls of the Pantheon. Vittorio Emanuele II is also there.

I am particularly enjoying the juxtaposition Paolicelli places with the Italy of long ago and an American's view of Italy, the traditions of Italy both religiously and culturally, and the genteelness of the Italian people.

I gleaned an unspoken message from Paolicelli - the urgency and satisfaction of learning one's history. I never knew my grandfathers and both grandmothers died when I was still in single digits. Later in life I realized I had lost not only endeared family members but also a reservoir of vibrant family history and the culture of a small hilltop town in southern Italy in the late 1800s.

The author writes in describing Rome: "Several writers have compared Rome to a beautiful and intriguing woman who reveals little of herself to a stranger. One needs to take time and effort to get to know her/it." Love it!

The two photos are my paternal and maternal grandmothers.

PhotoHunt: Digital

2011-05-07T00:30:00.003-04:00

Even maritime has gone digital .. thankfully. I am from a family of sailors and remember being in the fog with just a blow horn and wondering how far the ocean floor was from the boat's rudder. As the saying goes, 'you've come a long way, baby!'

This is my brother-in-law's boat. We frequently travel over Nantucket Sound to the Vineyard and Nantucket harbors during the summer. Digital instruments make these jaunts less stressful should the weather change quickly.

I caved

2011-05-05T14:13:00.004-04:00

.. and got a Kindle prior to my Hawaii trip. Thought I would miss the feel of the paper and turning pages but didn't know how I was going to pack all the books I wanted to bring with me. Yup, shorts, bathing suits and sleeveless tops take a lot of room~

This trip was for serious relaxation so reading was a top priority. I shopped Amazon for six books and tucked the Kindle into my hand bag. Voila. Even ordered a Kauai tourbook (OK-I got carried away with the ordering aspect of it. I've been to Kauai 3 times and have a seasoned tour guide beside me but couldn't stop myself)!

Last weekend I was having a pedi/manicure and the woman beside me asked me how I liked the Kindle. She had the same reservations as I had...seems I wasn't alone. Have to say the Kindle is a good way to travel.

PhotoHunt: Square

2011-04-29T07:52:00.004-04:00

A famous landmark in Boston is the square Citgo neon sign that is located in Kenmore Square - just down the street from Fenway Park. It is a double-faced sign that measures 60'x60' so it can be seen as a beacon in surrounding towns.

It didn't always look like this though. Here's the initial sign in a much older Kenmore Square

Aloha

2011-04-26T20:28:00.009-04:00

I've been away for awhile, as those on Facebook know. Just back from our Hawaii vacation and have posted many photos on my facebook page. Ty's dad was feted for his 90th birthday and for the first time met most of his Maui family. It was a great few days on Maui, wonderfully memorable Kauai adventures, and nostalgic days on Oahu for Ty and me.

One of my 'themes' in photo-taking this time was 'keiki' as many of the children from Hawaii are of mixed heritage, which produces some exquisite and adorable children. I did not post many of these photos on my FB page, so I thought I would give you a sampling of Hawaii's finest treasures. I hope you enjoy!

PhtoHunt: Trees

2011-04-09T19:12:00.007-04:00

A variety of tree shots: autumn leaves in New England, Cherry Blossoms of Washington,DC
Trees are a favorite subject for my photography. The Washington photos were taken in April 2010 during the Cherry Blossom Festival.

PhotoHunt: Closed

2011-04-01T19:43:00.002-04:00

The Italian Riviera closed for the season.

PhotoHunt; Cage(d)

2011-03-26T00:18:00.005-04:00

These photos were taken in Sevilla in Southern Spain (yikes) 8 years ago to this week .. the week USA declared war on Iraq. Although I am not 'caged', the photo does give the illusion of it. The second photo shows the actual view of the courtyard where these photos were taken, This was the courtyard to our charming small hotel in the Old Jewish Quarter of Sevilla.

2011-03-25T09:01:00.002-04:00

Death pushed me to the edge. Nowhere to back off. And to the shame of my fears, I danced with abandon in his face. I never danced as free. And Death backed off, the way dark backs off a sudden burst of flame. Now there's nothing left, but to keep dancing. It is the way I would have chosen had I been born three times as brave.~Mark Nepo

PhotoHunt:License Plate

2011-03-19T05:49:00.007-04:00

Can you guess where these photos were taken?

Comment: My blogging is meant to be 'fun' and full of levity. I have decided to keep my blog open to public viewing but would especially appreciate those viewing do so in the framework in which it is intended - fun.

If I have offended anyone in any way on my blog or on other blogs, it was unintentional. I do not expect that someone is to criticize my comments or postings, unless it is the author of a blog. For those who feel they must express their superiority, please do so elsewhere. Lighten up! Our daily lives are full with formality, rigidity and judgment. My blog is a brief respite from that. If you are the person who has commented to me privately, you will know this is meant for you. Your opinion is not welcomed. This is the only comment I will make in reference to this subject.

Hope all my regular readers continue to enjoy their weekends and will always be grateful for the joy and happiness in our lives. Namaste.

PhotoHunt; Machine(s)

2011-03-11T19:25:00.003-05:00

A plough as in farm machinery...I have NO idea about farm machinery. Actually, it's the not in my vernacular as I am city folk. But, this plough was turned into an autumn display in one of the working farms one town over from where I live. I would love to say that I am familiar with the tools and times of country living but, alas, I would only be fooling myself...

PhotoHunt: Self Portrait

2011-03-05T08:47:00.003-05:00

Featuring Lilly (she's actually yawning) and me!

PhotoHunt; Almost Black

2011-02-26T09:57:00.002-05:00

Facebook fans have already seen this photo but it's suitable for this week's theme too. Taken very early morning on the cold first of the year in Boston. It's actually shot from my car on Commonwealth Avenue for those of you who know Boston.

Happy weekend!

PhotoHunt: Silhouette

2011-02-20T00:45:00.002-05:00

Maybe *pushing* the definition of silhouette here. This sculpture caught my eye during one of my trips to the Italian Riviera towns.

Update: The Monster of Florence

2011-02-17T13:09:00.004-05:00

While I felt bogged down at times under the mountainous facts, dates, and names in this case, and, at times, the horrendous crimes made me squirm, the subplots woven into the one, still unsolved, murder mystery case held my curiosity. Not only was this a factual account of the gruesome murders of 7-9 (depending on whose theories you uphold) innocent people/couples, it sheds some light on the culture of the Italians when dealing with wrongdoings and the question of innocence and guilt. It also provides a glimpse into a legal system different from the US. Not to be overshadowed by these facts, the role of a journalist to write about sensitive matters and to criticize officials without fear of reprisals is central to this book.

It was a thought-provoking read.

How Italian are you?

2011-02-16T14:40:00.008-05:00

I lack the creativity to come up with this but took it from this month's Food Network magazine. Thought it might be fun being most of us claim to be Italian aficionados.....

Photos go along with No. 15.

NO PEEKING -- ANSWERS and scoring at the end of this posting.

1. Match the city or region to its famous dishes:
Cities/Region: Sicily, Naples, Rome, Bologna, Milan
Dishes: Spaghetti alla Carbonara, panettone, cannoli, pizza margherita, lasagna

2. When you drink cappuccio? A) Any time of day B) Only before Noon C) After dessert.

3. Name the following drinks: A) a cup that consists of 1/4 foam, 1/2 steamed milk, 1/4 espresso; B) a cup that consists of 1/3 foam, 1/3 steamed milk, 1/3 espresso; C) a cup that consists of 3/4 hot water and 1/4 espresso.

4. Tuscan bread is typically made without: A) yeast B) salt C) sugar.

5. Semolina is a type of ...... used in pasta making. A) Round cutte, B) Flour C) Salt D) Rolling Pin

6. Which treat is not deep fried? A) Torrone B) Zeppole C) Frittelle D) Cannoli

7. How do you pronouce these words:
Gnocchi A)"knock-ee" or B) "nyoh-kee"
Reggiano A) "reh-JYAH-noh" or B) "rej-ee-AHN-no"
Ricotta a) "ree-KAH-tuh" pr B) "REE-koh-tah"

8. Match the dish to its literal translation: Calzone, Ciabatta, Manicotti, Cappellacci; slipper, trouser, hats, sleeves

9. Put these meal stages in chronological order:
Secondo, Antipasto, Digestivo, Primo, Formaggio e frutta, dolce, apertivo, caffe

10. Place these noodles in order, thinnest to widest: A) Pappardelle B) Spaghetti, C) Linguine D) Fettuccine

11) Which of these meats does not come from a pig? A) Proscuitto B) Bresaola C) Capicola D) Mortadella

12) Pasta alle Vongole comes topped with: A) eggplant B) clams C) artichokes D) egg

13) Match the cheese to the animal: Pecorino Romano, Caprino, Asiago; A)Goat B) Cow C) Sheep

14) Which of these do you have in your kitchen right now? (Here's where you can rack up the points!) Fresh parmesan, fresh garlic, pizza stone, ravioli stamp, mezzaluna, expresso maker, panini press.

15. Name the Italian pastry in the photos:

16. What color pasta is in a traditional lasagna bolognese: A) Yellow, B) Black C) Green.

True or False:

17. By Italian law, parmesan cheese must age at least 12 months before it can be sold.

18. Olive oil, like wine, gets better as it ages.

19. Small gnocchi are called gnocchetti.

20. In addition to pasta, the term "al dente" can refer to the firmness of beans, rice and vegetables.

*********************
[Strangely (!), I did exceptionally well on items 5, 6 and 14~]

1. One point for each correct answer: Milan-Panettone, Rome-Spaghetti alla carbonara, Naples-Pizza Margherita; Sicily-Cannoli.

2. B 1 point. Italians don't typically drink milky coffee drinks after noon because they believe milk interferes with digestion.

3. 1 point for each correct answer: A) Caffe Latte, B) Cappuccino and C) Caffe Americano.

4. B 1 point. Tuscan meats and cheeses are highly salted, so the bread is not.

5. B 1 point.

6. A 1 point. Torrone is nougat made from whipped egg whites, honey, vanilla ad walnuts or almonds.

7. 1 point for each correct answer: Gnocchi is B) "NYOH-kee"; Reggiano is A)"reh-JYAH-noh"; and Ricotta is B) "REE-koh-tah"

8. 1 point for each correct answer: Calzone is B) Trouser; Ciabatta is A) Slipper; Manicotti is D) Sleeves; and Cappellacci is C) Hats.

9. Give yourself 3 points if you got the entire order correct; 2 if you missed just one, 0 if you missed more than one. Aperitivo, Antipasto, Primo, Secondo, Formaggio e frutta, Dolce, Caffe, Digestivo.

10. Give yourself 1 point if you got the order correct: B) Spagetti, C) Linguine, D) Fettuccine and A) Papparadelle.

11. B 1 point. Brasaola is air-dried salted beef.

12. B 1 point.

13. 1 point for each correct answer: Pecorino Romano - C) Sheep; Caprino - A) Goat; Asiago - B) Cow.

14. Give yourself 1 point for each tool or ingredient you have on hand.

15. 1 point for each correct answer: Tricolore, Struffoli, Biscotti, Sfogliatelle.

16. C 1 point.

17.-20. True of False?
17. T
18. F
19. T
20. T

Tally your points:

0 -14 points-Italian in Training
15-29 points - Italian at Heart
20-44 points Full-blooded Italian

Masaccio and Monsters, oh my!

2011-02-13T12:24:00.006-05:00

I have been focusing my reading mainly on historical fiction this past year. My last read was hereabout Venice.

Historical fiction coincidentally illuminates interestingly provocative historical facts sometimes gleaned over or omitted in the guide books and history books. This is partly my interest in this type of genre. As an example, I have learned an interesting Florentine saying: "The nail that sticks out gets hammered back in." It's an enormously prophetic adage, wouldn't you say?

I am almost finished reading The Monster of Florence by Douglas Preston, coauthored with retired homicide detective Mario Spezi. The book cover features the Rape of the Sabines by Giovanni da Bologna which is displayed in the Piazza della Signoria in Florence. This is what drew me to the book - along with my interest and the fact that the book might uncover local folklore or urban culture regarding Florence. It's actually an account of an investigation covering the years 1951 to 2008 which chronicles the murders and mutilations of unsuspecting romantic couples and suicide and vengeance. Along the way there are snippets of local color and history which embellishes this story. That is if one can embellish the cold, hard garish facts of the case this book brings forth.

Preston draws the analogy of the statues featured on the Piazza della Signoria as one example of Florence being a city of contrasts in what he terms the 'sublime and terrible'. In another example, he cites Florence as the birthplace of the Renaissance and as the instigator of ferocious massacres and bloody wars. I don't mean to say that Preston is anti-Florence. In fact, he moved there and immersed himself and his family in its culture, history and current events.

WIthout becoming too intimidated by the abundance of facts, dates, names and events throughout the book, I am finding it quite interesting. Wondering if anyone who has read this book has a review to offer?

PhotoHunt: Education

2011-02-12T14:04:00.005-05:00

Most of you know I am involved in the higher education field. This is a snapshot of one of the many Gothic buildings on the Boston College campus.The infamous football, basketball chant: We are BC! Boston College Eagles, that is. And, here are a few of our illustrious alums at one of the home football games.

PhotoHunt; Fashion

2011-02-05T10:56:00.004-05:00

I checked and rechecked this week's theme:o) Leather, of course, is a key fashion ingredient in Florence!

Although, I can't help to include this fashion statement. Ty was very proud of these rubba slippas because he paid less than $1 for them and they lasted him over 10 years. Sadly (for him), they have met their demise!

PhotoHunt:Standing

2011-01-29T11:59:00.002-05:00

Ok - I think I've got it now:o) *Thanks, K!*

PhotoHunt:Walking

2011-01-29T08:30:00.008-05:00

This week's theme is walking - this series of photos is a progression of our walk to San Miniatro in Florence.

PhotoHunt: Hands

2011-01-22T00:23:00.002-05:00

These boys need their hands to build their sand tunnel. The waves kept washing the sand over their creation, but they were persistent. This was taken in Kauai the last time I visited. Going back again in April - can't wait. It's deliciously gorgeous.

Finally - It's a movie!

2011-01-18T06:06:00.005-05:00

Thanks to the patience of my son, I have finally figured out the imovie feature. From photo, to slideshow, to movie -- Here's Boston. Hope you enjoy.

PhotoHunt: Shadow

2011-01-15T07:15:00.004-05:00

My previous two posts would satisfy this week's theme. If only!

So, I've gone with Lady Liberty whose shadow is cast over New York's Harbor. The closeup photo has been photoshopped to give it a grainy effect.

PhotoHunt: Your Choice

2011-01-08T12:30:00.004-05:00

I loved the shape of this pottery bowl and the organic form of the stem. This is a piece that just makes me *sigh*. Wishing at times my artistic forces could be this creative! This is a piece that was at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Hawaii. I believe it has since closed. Unfortunately, I do not know the artist's name -almost feel it's sacrilicious to state that!

2011-01-07T15:29:00.003-05:00

I happened upon John Tarrant’s writings (Zen master from CA), that create some interesting juxtapositions while holding some truth in tenets I TRY to strive for. Notice the emphasis on ‘try’.

I thought it might be good to write them here as revitalization from those fleeting moments when the cold winter doldrums enter my heart and mind.

1. Life Is Uncertain, Surprises Are Likely.
2. Lower The Bar: If You Are Alive, That's Good
3. In A Dark Place You Still Have What Really Counts
4. If You Are In A Predicament, There Will Be A Gate
5. What You Need Might Be Given To You
6. The True Life Is In Between Winning And Losing
7. If You Have Nothing—Give It Away

The Rossetti Letter

2011-01-03T15:26:00.005-05:00

The Rossetti Letter by Christi Phillips

To have two glorious weeks of relaxation and curl up with favorite new presents, books!

I happened into one of my favorite places this vacation, a used bookstore on the main street where I live. Happened to pick up this book, The Rossetti Letter, as the cover looked interesting. And what is not to ignite an inquiring mind but a hint of Spanish conspiracy, set in Venice, a main character being that of a Venetian courtesan and a letter that could change history? For all my Venetian aficionados, I recommend this book if you haven’t already enjoyed Christi Phillips’ descriptions of Venice.
It’s an easy read and seems to be laced with Venetian history and folklore in some places. I’m not sure at what point a historical novel, if this can be defined as such, leaves fact and becomes fiction, but it totally engrossed me.

Just a morsel:
"Tiny white lights entwined within the branches of the terrace's sheltering tree glimmered on the water's surface, and reticulated golden reflections shimmered and rippled on the palazzo's ochre-colored exterior." .. "El sbarlusego - It simply means 'the shining'. I remember lying awake at night when I was a boy, watching the light on the ceiling. The full moon on the Grand Canal can be as dazzling as the sun."

PhotoHunt: Fuzzy

2011-01-01T11:05:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year all my fellow bloggers!

I didn't want to make this TWO photohunts missed, so here's my (lame) submission for fuzzy....Fooling around with Photoshop Elements.

"A child can teach an adult three things: to be happy for no reason, to always be busy with something, and to know how to demand with all his might that which he desires." — Paulo Coelho

Hope you all find the child within you this year and take the time to explore what your heart sings...

Hauoli Makahiki Hou

2010-12-27T19:54:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year, fellow bloggers! Wishing you a wonderfully blissful 2011 filled with enjoyable travels, health and warm and loving friendships.

I've been a bad blogger lately. Facebook seems to be the social network of choice during these hectic days. I have been fortunate to have two weeks (yes!) off from work and am just about ready to relax from the holidays and some family emergencies that arose but seem to be under control presently. Today our challenge is 18 inches of snow and high winds - a classic Northeast winter!

PhotoHunt: Circle

2010-12-25T10:28:00.002-05:00

Taken at the Contemporary Museum in Hawaii.

PhotoHunt; Male

2010-12-18T22:15:00.002-05:00

Of course - Firenze and New Bedford, MA (some silly family males).

Technical question help re: You tube

2010-12-05T08:59:00.002-05:00

Can anyone help? I have created a movie from a slideshow (using Quicktime) and uploaded it onto You Tube. The music is not working with the Youtube video, although it is in the slideshow and in the test file I created of the movie. Any ideas would be appreciated.

PhotoHunt: Hard to Find

2010-12-04T10:35:00.004-05:00

Took this photo of one of the residents of the Boston Common. At this time of year the squirrels are hiding their stash of acorns (squirreling them away) in preparation of the cold (barren food) season. However, for these critters the acorns are hard to find (read: they forget where they hide them). This resident was lucky to find an acorn for his meal.

Deck the Halls

2010-12-01T08:49:00.003-05:00

We had spent Friday decorating the house and tree. So Ty and I ventured out this past weekend (what were we thinking) into Boston's Prudential Center for our holiday passeggiata. Reassured me that the true holiday spirit comes from within and not in a wrapped box with a bow!

PhotoHunt: Written

2010-11-27T21:53:00.002-05:00

Written, as in 'words':
"See I'm all about them words
Over numbers, unencumbered numbered words
Hundreds of pages, pages, pages forwards
More words then I had ever heard and I feel so alive.." ~ Jason Mraz, You and I

Thought for the day: Knit and Purl

2010-11-24T10:31:00.005-05:00

"These stitches are the fundamentals of knitting and are the basis of every garment. The knit stitch is a series of flat, vertical loops that produces a knitted fabric face and the purl stitch is its reverse. One side is smooth, the other bumpy. Knit is what you show the world; purl is the soft, nubbly underside you keep close to your skin." ~Kate Jacobs, The Friday Night Knitting Club

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

PhotoHunt: Juicy

2010-11-20T09:18:00.004-05:00

Juicy - as in fresh, mighty fine-looking veges. These photos were taken at the fresh air market in Hanalei, Kauai after a day of swimming and beach worshipping on one of the finest beaches in the Hawaiian chain... but I digress.

These photos remind me how I am already missing the fresh, juicy veges and fruits of summer!

PS: Last week's theme was a difficult one and time seems to be gone by the time I get to sit with free time these days :o(

PhotoHunt:Alive

2010-11-05T19:21:00.002-04:00

Alive as in an active volcano. This is the vog from Mount Etna in Sicily. In 2004 I visited Siciliy and Etna was kind enough to 'do her thing' for me the night I arrived. Each night we were treated to a natural display of red and yellow fireworks. During the day, vog settled around the mountain tops. I still think that the volcanic eruption had something to do with my contracting Legionnaire's disease after that trip, although no one in the medical profession would confirm this as fact.

Quilting

2010-10-30T20:56:00.005-04:00

Anne asked if I had any photos of finished quilting pieces I had made, so I will put up a few that i have presently out in my home. Most have been given away as gifts and the others are packed away. Maui is on my mind these days so the stained glass window in the wedding chapel at the Grand Wailea is now back on my to-do list. Actually, I have already cut the template and pieces for some of the figures and flowers if you can believe it! That's just about how hard it is to find a chunk of time to dedicate to one sitting. So, thanks for being the impetus to kick start me again.

A little history: I began quilting as a way to be 'creative' while at home when my kids were very small. After they were asleep, I would work through most of the night and cherished this time for its quiet and peacefulness. I have been quilting for over 20 years. I made the decision of being a stay at home mom while my children were young, but it proved a difficult transition for me from being in a working, professional environment. Loved spending time with my children and sharing moments in their growth, but missed the autonomy and comraderie qualities of work. To compound this sense of isolation, we were one of the first houses in a newly built development in a fairly new community. I have always done artistic things so when my sister first showed me the Eleanor Burns way of 'quilting in a day', it was therapeutic. I moved to my style of a more contemporary quilting method. So these may not be the quilts you are familiar with. Thanks for allowing me to share some with you.

PhotoHunt; Dark

2010-10-30T07:56:00.002-04:00

This is a stained glass window in the wedding chapel at the Grand Wailea in Maui. With the sun shining off the water, the window's colors are really illuminated brightly. I have been wanting for three years now to quilt some of the figures from these windows. Now to find the time......

Cat Stevens

2010-10-29T09:33:00.004-04:00

Over on the 'social network', Barb posted this link, www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcgCdn8I8kU&NR=1, in our conversation about Cat Stevens. His music caught my soul in the 70's and I believe is still current today. He has surely led a rich, albeit provocative life to some people. His is truly an example of a life in flux which brought fulfillment, maybe contentment, in many layers.

His music is timeless; his lyrics heartwarming. It's too hard to pick one song that is my favorite. Think a revival today of his music would be meaningful?

PhotoHunt: Orange

2010-10-22T22:36:00.002-04:00

I had a hard time deciding on which 'orange' photo to use. The ballooning one is from Sedona quite a few years ago but I just found my set of Sedona digitals. Yeah, I thought I lost them.
The other photo is from my sister's house in CT. I can sit on her deck for hours and watch the changing skies and river.

Baptistry of San Giovanni

2010-10-21T18:26:00.004-04:00

Everyone is probably more familiar with the bronze gates (Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise) of the Baptistry, part of the triumvirate of the Duomo, belltower and Baptistry. My first trip to Florence was specifically to see the Gates of Paradise door. My second trip to Florence was to visit the leather shops and San Croce. On this trip, I was determined to visit the inside of the Baptistry.

Just prior to our departure, Ty and I found time to spend our ‘arriverderci’ walk around Florence. I spotted the side door to the Baptistry open with people entering it. It was daily Mass! So, Ty and I attended what was another one of our special moments of our trip. Not only was it an intimate setting, a ‘chicken skin’ moment to hear a Mass in Italian, but I couldn’t refrain from stealing peeks at the ceiling which glistened with gold mosaics in Byzantine fashion. The technique used here is similar to the mosaics found in Ravenna and Venice of ungrouted glass and gold smalti (which catch the light in different ways from different angles).
All the mosaics have a gilded background and were made between 1266 and the beginning of the 14th century by Byzantine artists with the collaboration of vigorous Tuscans like Cimabue, Giotto’s master – much earlier than the outside doors! Work began on the arch over the altar in 1225 and continued to cover the entire roof vault during the next hundred years or so. The mosaics show biblical scenes, arranged in six concentric rings centered on the roof dome. The first ring is decorative, the second shows Christ surrounded by angels. The outer rings have images from the Old and New Testaments.
The Baptistery floor is of inlaid marble, in red, green, black and white, in a wide variety of patterns. Also referred to as pietre dure, this incorporates thin sections of stone and semi-precious materials into pictures which are as detailed as paintings. This floor reminded us of the floor in the Cathedral of Siena.

The haunting wooden visage of "Magdalene" sculptured by Donatello and was originally exhibited in the Baptistery but it now housed in the Museo dell´Opera del Duomo.

Brancacci Chapel

2010-10-19T06:12:00.007-04:00

The Church of Santa Maria del Carmine houses the frescoes of the Brancacci Chapel, built prior to 1386. The frescoes were begun in 1424, reworked, and restored. Brancacci met with some disapproval for allowing portrayals of some contemptuous people in the frescoes. Over time so frescoes were covered but later restored. The Chapel was not thoroughly completed until the 18th or 19th century.
Sometimes called the “Sistine Chapel of the early Renaissance”, Felice Brancacci, the patron, commissioned Panicale to paint his chapel. Panicale was assisted by Masolino and Masaccio but the frescoes were later completed by Lippi. The chapel is a plethora of vibrant frescoes. Twelve scenes beginning with The Original Sin and up to the Life of Saint Peter cover the walls and the dome of the Corsini Chapel is covered with frescoes by Giordano.
Masaccio was considered the first painter of his day to use scientific perspective, which he learned from his friend, the sculptor, Brunelleschi. Masolino and Masaccio used their paint in an unprecedented manner which evoked vivid energy and emotional realism that until that time had not been seen. Their use of three dimensionality was a trendsetter in Renaissance art. Flilppino Lippi, whose work is also in Santa Maria Novella and Lorenzo de Medici's villa at Spedaletto, is full of beautiful detail
There is a bit of controversy over which painter actually painted each fresco. Some were seemingly started by one but completed by another, making it difficult to attribute correctly the masterpiece to the appropriate master.
All the 14th century artists were greatly influenced by these scenes and used this cappella as a classroom to hone their skills. One such artist was Michelangelo, a regular to the Brancacci Chapel. It was here that he sharpened his skill by copying Masaccio’s works. It was also here that Michelangelo was assaulted by a rival sculptor who didn’t quite agree with Michelangelo’s critique of his work.
We only saw the chapel but my planning also mentioned a convent nearby which is also rich with masterpieces.

PhotoHunt; Miniature

2010-10-16T08:49:00.002-04:00

The glass ball shows the house in miniature. Couldn't quite figure out how to get myself out of the picture and still get the house in it!

Santo Spirito

2010-10-15T07:49:00.008-04:00

The facade of the Church of Santo Spirito occupies the southern end of the piazza which sees market days on weekends. The austere exterior (18th century) of Santo Spirito is in direct contrast to the interior which is pure Brunelleschi. Brunelleschi initiated its construction in 1444 until his death two years later. The Church houses the masterpieces of Lippi's Madonna and Child, Ghirlandaio, and Cosimo Rosselli's works. Michelangelo's Crucifix was returned to its rightful place in the Church this year after touring Italy. In celebration of its return, the Crucifix was placed in the center of the Basilica instead of its usual sacristy. We were fortunate to see this magnificant, haunting really, masterpiece. I'm not sure if this sculpture was intentionally placed in this spot for the dramatic lighting, or if we were there at a serendipitous time when the filtered sun through the window illuminated the face of Christ and cast a silhouette of the crucifix against the stone wall.

This Church serves as the principle residence of the Augustinian community in Florence. We were treated to a quick look into the courtyard of the abbey where more murals graced its walls. It was only a minute but surely a high point in our trip. Unfortunately, no photos were allowed.

San Miniatro, Florence

2010-10-12T21:32:00.008-04:00

This is one of those spots where there was an overwhelming feeling of spirituality, calmness, solitude, quietness, contemplation. A magical, warm embrace.

After Ty and I spent the morning walking the banks of the Arno, we crossed Ponte alle Grazie which offers a picturesque view of all the bridges spanning the Arno. From there we followed the directions I found on SlowTravel by JeffWhiteaker which were very precise (thank you!). School children were just returning home from school - a treat to see families together - veered down the narrow streets and crossed under the old gate/wall. From there we trekked the pedestrian stairway up to Piazzale Michelangelo. Stunning panoramic views are afforded from this perch although it is very crowded with tourists. We had wanted to time our arrival here at sunset as we heard it was quite a romantic spot for views of Florence, but felt we had already witnessed sunsets while having a cappuccino on the top deck restaurant of La Rinascente, the Florentine department store, and the banks of the Arno.

But away from the busyness of this location, stands the Basilica di San Minatro al Monte (St. Minias on the Mountain), a Romanesque structure, which is surrounded by a wall erected originally by Michelangelo and expanded by Cosimo in 1553. On the grounds of the church is a cloister, cemeteries (Carol Collodi, Pinocchio creator is buried here as well as Florentine politicians), chapel, crypt. But the highlight of this trip is the interior of this shrine to St. Minias, possible Florence's first martyr. We were lucky to enter the church to the sounds of the Olivetan monks singing Gregorian chant at late-afternoon vespers. It was a surreal experience that brought both of us to sit on the wooden benches in hushed silence with only the muted song echoing from the chapel behind the main altar.

Like many churches in Florence, this one is filled with frescos. The center of the nave is dominated by the Chapel of the Crucifix by Mihcelozzo in 1448. Panels of frescos decorated by Gaddi can be found here, as well as the work of Rossellino and Baldovinetti and Luca della Robbia. There is a spectacular mosaic of Christ with the Mary and St. Minias which dates back to 1260.

We took Bus 13 back to San Maria Novella as pressure on my toe, which I stubbed prior to our trek, was more pronounced descending the steps. Ty, an advocate of public transportation, didn't seem to mind tho.

PhotoHunt: Stripes

2010-10-08T13:46:00.004-04:00

It's great when you happen on photos you thought you lost:-) Have a superlatively long weekend. Off to Connecticut.

Ponte Vecchio

2010-10-08T08:49:00.002-04:00

The Ponte Vecchio, probably the most recognized bridge to travelers, spans the Arno at its narrowest point where it is believed that a bridge was first built in Roman times, when the via Cassia crossed the river at this point. The Roman piers were of stone, the superstructure of wood. The bridge first appears in a document of 996. Ponte Vecchio means ‘Old Bridge’ in Italian and its name suits its history. The original wooden bridge was destroyed in a flood in 1333, rebuilt in 1345, and was the only surviving bridge left by the retreating Germans in WWII. Today the stone bridge is a three-arched bridge (originally 5 arches) attributed to Gaddi. In 1565, Giorgio Vasari was commissioned to build the upper part of the bridge, which today is called the Vasariano Corridor. The row of jewelry and leather shops along this corridor is interrupted midway with two panoramic terraces where you are able to see the glorious spans of the Ponte Trinita and Ponte alle Grazie and enjoy the view of Tuscan shores as well as catch a glimpse of San Mianto al monte (next post). Sunset is the most romantic time to tour the bridge, making the scenes that much more enchanting.
The ‘ lucchetti d’amore’ (locks of love) originated when young men had to leave their home towns to do military service. They attached a lock to one of the bridges before their departure as a promise to survive the war and return home. Although many prefer the contemporary version: Legend has it that if you and your loved one attach a padlock to any surface of the famous bridge and then throw away the key into the Arno River below, your love will last forever. Millions of couples have come to the Ponte Vecchio for expressly this reason, to lock in their love and throw away the key for eternity.

“Everything about Florence seems to be colored with a mild violet, like diluted wine.” ~ Henry
James

A different slice of life

2010-10-06T10:34:00.004-04:00

Meandering through some blogs (and if the grey matter was working this AM, I would have written it down) and this came up. Thought it was worth sharing, but you really don't HAVE to share with us if you would prefer to keep it a whisper to youself. Really, yeah, really ..

TODAY IS ALL ABOUT YOU!

1. Tell me one thing you're going to do today that's just for you?

2. Shout out one thing you're really, really good at? - - Don't put yourself down like that! You are bloody great at at least one thing!

3. Write down one thing that you've been procrastinating around that you're going to try to tackle today? Put it in your pocket, so you don't forget about it, please.

4. Whisper how you're going to reward yourself when IT'S over?

5. Spend 10 minutes today thinking quietly about what you want to get out of life that will make your life a tad easier? Something that's do-able, achievable - Not winning the lottery!

POOF, there's some spangled magic dust with your name on it - Watch you don't get it on your clothes!

There now isn't that better?

Florence, Oratoria de San Martino

2010-10-03T19:25:00.008-04:00

Most of you know that I researched and sought information and notes from experience (you!) prior to my vacation to Florence a week or so ago. In all the literature there was one obscure mention of a very small chapel. It isn't written up in any travel books that I found but I thought I would share with you this gem of a place. It's called the Oratoria de San Martino, just off the Piazza St. Martino. Below I have copied the directions and a brief history.

"Leaving the Piazza della Signoria by the Via Calzaioli, and taking the third turning to the right, a few steps lead to the obscure little piazza, or piazzetta, which is divided in two by the diminutive Church of San Martino once a chapel belonging to the larger church of the same name. San Martino was built A.D. 986, by an archdeacon of Fiesole, who in 1034 presented it to the monks of the Badia - Abbey - of Florence: it was nevertheless maintained as the parish church until 1479, when the abbot suppressed the cure, and gave half the building to the Guild of Tailors, who had their residence in this quarter. The piazza nearest the Via Calzaioli is still called the "Piazza dei Cimatori," from cimare, to shear cloth. St. Martin, who divided his cloak with the beggar, is a saint equally appropriate to the Guild of Tailors, and to the charitable institution to which all that remains of the old church now belongs.

In 1441, the good Bishop Antonino engaged twelve pious citizens of Florence to form themselves into a society for the secret aid of persons brought to penury by misfortune, who were ashamed to beg, and who were therefore called I Poveri Vergognosi - "the shamefaced poor." The members of this society assumed the title of Procuratori dei Poveri Vergognosi; but they were more generally known as the Buonuomini di San Martino - "the good men of St. Martin." The friars of the Badia granted them permission to make San Martino the depository for contributions towards this charity, and they suspended a box with a slip outside, to receive alms, which still remains there with the old inscription, stating the purpose for which the money was demanded."

I found this tiny chapel to be a very spiritually moving place. For the brief time we had alone in it, I marvelled at the quality and maintenance of the 12 colorful murals (lunettes), painted in the manner of Masaccio. We ate a few meals at a ristorante which was situated across from the Oratoria and witnessed Florentines depositing money and envelopes into the slot.

PhotoHunt: Letters

2010-10-02T14:36:00.002-04:00

Letters unemcumbered letters made up words......

Technology and the Missing Piece

2010-10-01T10:22:00.004-04:00

While the concept of Facebook has intrigued me (and I will see the movie) and does provide certain advantages for keeping in touch with others on a momentary basis, I find blogging to be more authentic and a vehicle to allow a thought and discussion in a more conversational manner (mea culpa-haven't been a good blogger of late). I know many find twittering quite productive, but I don't twitter. There just aren't enough hours in a day ..

In the news today is a sad story of a first-year college student who took his life seemingly after having an intimate incident videoed live on a social network by two other students, one his roommate. Is the rampant use of technology somehow detaching the user from his moral and social obligations? In this case, a first-year college student is hardly too young to understand that one's actions have repercussions. Is it the sense of anonymity that technology provides the user to be quick with a thoughtless comment or film intimate events without the filter of judgment?

Working in a college setting, I know well that many students view the campus as an isolated cocoon. But we are all creatures of a society and hopefully have the values instilled us from many resources to care about fellow human beings. Technology has provided a tool to us to increase our knowledge, keep us in contact with others around the world, guided us and entertained us, but it is my hope that along with these benefits come a sense of obligation from the user.

Thanks, I feel better now ..

Mille grazie

2010-09-25T08:59:00.011-04:00

Many thanks to all my blogging friends who shared your love of Italy, experiences and information with me. It was truly a trip full of memories made richer with your ingredients - from Giotto, gelato, girasoli and shrines, sandwiches, laundry and leather belts. I will write soon but here are a few images for you!

PhotoHunt: Anniversary

2010-09-11T21:06:00.002-04:00

May they all rest in peace. May we someday honor each other's differences and respect each other.
PS: Photo from the web, as I seem to have 'misplaced' a few thousand of my photos in my new Mac.

PhotoHunt: Framed

2010-08-28T20:36:00.002-04:00

Hawaiian objects framed by Hawaiian flags.

PhotoHunt; Numerical

2010-08-21T22:06:00.001-04:00

I must have a thing for sundials.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T09:41:00.000-04:00

PhotoHunt: Orange

2010-08-13T07:09:00.003-04:00

Been a bad blogger lately - blame it on summer! Hope you are all enjoying some sun and fun.

PhotoHunt: Colorful

2010-08-06T23:22:00.006-04:00

This photo was taken at the PMC (Pan Mass Challenge) bike race, a fundraiser for cancer research. A few years in a row, my closest friend and her crew dedicated training and the race to all cancer survivors, of which she is one. The ride route encompasses 192 (two-way, longest ride) or the shortest of routes which is 80+ miles of cycling.
"This summer, each of the 5,000-plus cyclists will commit to raising between $500 and $4,200 for the privilege of being a member of the PMC team. " Last year 100% of all fundraising went to the Dana Faber Cancer Institute, Jimmy Fund, of Boston.

Quote for the Day

2010-08-04T07:08:00.002-04:00

Whatever you are, whatever you do, be in love. ~ Rumi

PhotoHunt: Public

2010-07-30T23:26:00.003-04:00

This photo was taken at the top of the Spanish Steps in Rome on the weekend when Tom Cruz and Katie Homes were getting married. It was quite a crowded spectacle - both paparazzi and the public!

PhotoHunt; Hanging

2010-07-24T22:26:00.001-04:00

Hangin' on the beach before taking the Napali Cliff hike on the island of Kauai. Boy, do I miss that place!

PhotoHunt: Triangle

2010-07-17T18:40:00.004-04:00

England didn't let me down on this topic. These photos are from Hampton Court, London (October 2009)

Gratitude Friday: Hope

2010-07-15T22:19:00.004-04:00

That elusive feeling. Desperate without it. Life changing with it.

I had this discussion the other day with my son who lost a colleague to cancer seemingly suddenly. Although he is in the profession of medicine, this death was a struggle for him. As a mother, my instinct is to console - no matter what age - the child experiencing sadness. It seems difficult to find adequately comforting words when a child is in grief. The word that arose often in our conversation was hope.

Last month, my daughter's roommate from college was to be married. Less than 24 hours before the wedding the groom died in his sleep. It was a tragic experience for everyone who was anticipating this happy event. My daughter was comforting her roommate, and I was comforting her in the privacy of her room, wondering if she would soon understand that in the darkest of times, hope remains kindled..maybe not brightly but it still is a flicker.

We can only have hope to propel us through to our life's dreams because we really don't know our destiny. And for that reason, we need to live each day fully with the satisfaction of knowing at day's end that we have given it our best.

PhotoHunt; Free

2010-07-10T18:03:00.002-04:00

I visited New York City often as my daughter has resided there for the last 5 years. Great happening, lively, fast-paced city with nothing wanting to do to fill you mind.

This photo was taken from the top of the Empire State Building. Images of Sleepless in Seattle running through my head!

Poem of the Day

2010-07-06T20:29:00.004-04:00

Mea culpa for being a bad blogger lately. Between hot summer weather, vacations and a new computer, well, you know how the time just seems to slip by. I happened on a Pablo Neruda poem that I had on an old inactive blog. THought you might enjoy it.

DON'T GO FAR OFF, NOT EVEN FOR A DAY
Don't go far off, not even for a day, because --
because -- I don't know how to say it: a day is long
and I will be waiting for you, as in an empty station
when the trains are parked off somewhere else, asleep.

Don't leave me, even for an hour, because
then the little drops of anguish will all run together,
the smoke that roams looking for a home will drift
into me, choking my lost heart.

Oh, may your silhouette never dissolve on the beach;
may your eyelids never flutter into the empty distance.
Don't leave me for a second, my dearest,

because in that moment you'll have gone so far
I'll wander mazily over all the earth, asking,
Will you come back? Will you leave me here, dying?

Pablo Neruda

PhotoHunt: Open

2010-07-02T22:47:00.006-04:00

A friend's grandchild enjoying last year's cookout at my home.

Hope you all have a safe, happy, relaxing 4th celebration. I'll be on a beach in Falmouth for a few days!