Voce Valentino

Ruins & the Palace grounds; Split, Croatia

2012-01-26T22:02:00.000-05:00

Croatian Graffiti

2012-01-25T21:43:00.000-05:00

Split, Croatia

2012-01-24T23:16:00.000-05:00

A little bit of home...

Croatia continued

2012-01-23T22:34:00.000-05:00

Bell tower in the palace


Wild kitten in the palace

Rub his toe for good luck.

Within the palace walls

Palace of Diocletian, Split

2012-01-22T19:14:00.000-05:00

Below are images from the Palace of Diocletian in Split, Croatia. They were all taken in the early part of the afternoon. The dome with oculus was filled with light as you can see in the photo of the men singing traditional Dalmatian coast music. The music was beautiful as the group used only their voices and the acoustics of the dome. The light effect in the dome was a big thrill for me to produce with my camera, still learning to use that Nikon!

Croatia

2012-01-21T23:23:00.000-05:00

Croatia

Split

October 2011

2012-01-20T22:18:00.000-05:00

Last year, October I did a bit of traveling. It came just at the right time and was one of the best things I have done yet with my Mom! We saw many beautiful things, did a fair amount of shopping, had a lot of laughs and experienced part of the Mediterranean and its temperamental currents from an obstructed view cabin on the Ruby Princess. We were accompanied on the trip by my Grandfather, Uncle and his wonderful gal who all began to dread the sight of me and my camera often calling me the paparazzi.
"Come on guys" was all had to say and they were immediately charmed and succumbed to my incessant snapping. (wink, wink)
While on board the ship, after an extensive tour of the Amalfi coast a passenger asked me if I was a photographer. I replied, regretfully no but it is the way I see... and for the first time in my life I felt I was equipped with the necessary motive to begin to take my hobby seriously.
Photography for me has evolved into a passion. I can almost go no where without my camera. My Mom and dad gave me my first film camera when I was in single digits...I think it was a Kodak 110, looking something like this:

And while I have no idea what ever happened to that camera, I can not remember a time when I did not have access to one. I have managed to acquire a collection of Canon's and more recently my first Nikon.
Camera's are so much more complicated today with all of the digital options and abilities. Getting acquainted with the Nikon for me has been like learning a new language, a very romantic language but none the less, a new language!
More recently I have had some issues with my Power Book because I have no more memory! Guess why...must be that darn Nikon. With that said I have been MIA from the blog partly because I have been hoping to post a photograph a day. Lucky me, I have a technically able husband who has created a work around. So I am happy to say a photograph a day is on its way!

My day...

2012-01-18T18:41:00.001-05:00

I reached the breaking point. I was on the ledge...But Winners never quit...they make a list!!!

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New Years Day Dinner

2012-01-03T21:16:00.001-05:00

New Years Day dinner with friends is a wonderful way to begin 2012. Lentils were on the menu of course, bringing good luck for the year! The main course was a Cuban pork shoulder made with orange juice, lime juice, oregano and lotsa gahlic with a side of broccolini. Dinner was delish and tasted even better shared with Adam and Lisa. Happy New Year to all.

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Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-01T00:52:00.001-05:00

We wish you all the best for 2012!

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Strufoli

2011-12-30T17:53:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite Italian traditions. Delish, thank you Momma for making these honey cluster traditions live on in my Italian tummy!

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oh Christmas tree!

2011-12-16T09:24:00.001-05:00

This is our new pre lit Christmas tree. Isnt it pretty. Every year we battle the strings of lights, I like twinkly. It usually leads to a small brawl. Not this year! I miss the twinkles but not the debates. Santa will be here soon!
Merry Merry to all.

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Seltzer and coffee

2011-12-06T11:16:00.000-05:00

I think the people at Seltzer know who I am... this T-Shirt was made for me!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T05:21:00.001-05:00

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I'm in love

2011-11-15T20:59:00.000-05:00

When I was in Monte Carlo I saw this beautiful Porsche 356 speedster in red...silver please

A Proud Retriever!!

2011-11-14T19:41:00.000-05:00

University of Maryland Baltimore County was featured on 60 minutes Sunday evening.
My Brother and I share this alma mater and are extremely proud.
The story particularly covers the emphasis on math and science students but the enthusiasm and encouragement is across the board at UMBC.
It is truly a unique and exceptional university and I'm not just saying that because I went to school there...Please enjoy the segment

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18560_162-57319098/hrabowski-an-educator-focused-on-math-and-science/

oh Julia...

2011-11-08T23:46:00.001-05:00

And 4 hours later...I present coq au vin.
Some time ago my Mom gave me the two volume set of Mastering the Art of French Cooking. I have enjoyed thumbing through the books and marking the dishes I feel I must conquer. The first dish from the classic was but of course crepes. Over the last three days I have been collecting the ingrediants for coq au vin and Daniel has been waiting patiently for the taste test! I started with a whole chicken and other fresh components, the end result was fabulous. Thank you Julia Child for educating this American cook!

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Happy Birthday! to me

2011-11-04T11:25:00.001-04:00

A nice surprise today, flowers from my wonderful husband. Im smiling from ear to ear.

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Pepitas

2011-10-31T20:56:00.001-04:00

We even toasted the seeds this year, all on a Monday night!

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Halloween treats

2011-10-31T20:54:00.001-04:00

For my guy!

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our happy pumpkin

2011-10-31T20:52:00.001-04:00

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Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-31T19:00:00.001-04:00

My favorite decorated house on our block! BOO!

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up up and away!

2011-10-06T16:20:00.001-04:00

Im on my way to Roma to cruise the Mediteranean! Ahhh vacation at last. Bon Voyage!

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One Nation

2011-09-11T09:08:00.000-04:00

It's September, you're kidding, right?

2011-09-07T23:13:00.000-04:00

Where were we all summer? Oh really, it was a lot of work and no play. Here are a few highlights there was no summer vacation, no long weekends...though we were able to take off one Wednesday of the entire summer to see the Red Sox play the Orioles at Camden Yards.

We started the summer with a family wedding at the Jersey Shore, what fun!

We ended the summer with the girls for a Labor Day brunch at Nanny's house!

All I can think of is Toy Story! Darn you guys make cute kids!

Pals for life...she is so grown up!


playing Fancy Nancy charades

we are acting surprised, I look concerned!

A second round of pancakes and whipped cream!

We celebrated Olivia's first birthday!

Livy tolerating us while we dress her up in our gift...but it is so stylish! A chocolate brown corduroy coat with pink polka dots and matching beret!

Italia

2011-07-12T20:56:00.001-04:00

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Knowing what you want...

2011-07-12T20:55:00.001-04:00

It's a good thing!

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New Spinach Salad

2011-06-29T22:42:00.001-04:00

I took a chance on dinner tonight. While the hubby has a worldly palette he can be finiky. Oh yes, that is a very true statement. Above is a photo of my end result, an entree from the latest issue of Cooking Light, a new spin on the classic spinach salad with mushrooms and bacon. The bacon is traditionally warm from the frying pan and slightly wilts the spinach when added to the salad. This version has sliced pan fried new potatoes, chiorzo sausage and poached eggs. It is then topped with a shallot and sherry dressing. You mince the shallots and cook them in olive oil for three minutes, just until clear and soft, then add the sherry. Let it cook down and spoon over the plated spinach, choirzo, potatoes and eggs. It was delicious and a hit with Daniel. A win for me, and something new to add to the dinner rotation!

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Sunday dinner

2011-06-21T23:10:00.001-04:00

Mom's fantastic Sunday dinner. Ravioli stuffed with gorgonzola and sun dried tomato in an alfredo sauce with shrimp. Hello...elliptical machine!

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Pretty purple

2011-06-21T23:04:00.001-04:00

Do you know...is this lilac? It has a nice scent and is a beautiful color. I did not think lilac could grow to be so big.

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Tweeting!

2011-06-21T22:50:00.001-04:00

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Monday

2011-06-21T18:31:00.001-04:00

Rain rain go away!! That was Monday. But I had to crack a smile for this outfit. That is a man wearing knee high wellies with his grey dress pants folded into them. Loosely, of course, as not to wrinkle the pants. He has completed the ensemble with a white shirt, navy blue blazer with gold buttons an a large size rainbow umbrella. I thought he looked funny. Practical but funny. I showed Dan the picture before posting and he said " what's wrong with that?" Sheesh Mr. Fashion. That's entertainment!!

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D80

2011-06-15T22:48:00.000-04:00

Tonight the moon was even more beautiful than last night. Recently we purchased a Nikon D80 and tonight I decided it was the perfect time to experiment with night photography.
Since I am not particularly know for my patience this type of photography can be particularly challenging. While there is always room for improvement, I am very happy with the results.
The man in the moon is smiling!

Please remember to ask if you would like to use one of my photos. Thank you!

The walk home

2011-06-11T12:04:00.000-04:00

It is the end of another long week that had its moments of feeling as if it would never end or that it was passing much too quickly.
We have had some abnormally hot weather marking the beginning of the summer however Friday it did not hit 100 degrees so I opted to walk home. It helped that it was a bit overcast and I was in no rush.
It turns out, it was a nice walk since I had my ipod tuned to my summer play list and I wasn't weighted down with all those things that I feel a necessity to carry back and forth to work!
Along the way I noticed a beautiful magnolia tree in bloom and soon realized the neighborhood is full of them. I took a photo which inspired me to really take notice of the route I take home. I pass through these streets in the rush of my daily commute but today I realized I am only depriving myself by not looking.
The saying is true...sometimes you have to stop and smell the roses.
The walk home...

the things we do...that I don't post

2011-06-11T02:13:00.000-04:00

Not because I don't want to...just can never make enough time. Does anyone have a machine for that?!

Photos are in no particular order!

The hold up on the highway one weekend on our way to my Mom's. I wondered why they did not close the highway. Can't the car explode?

The beautiful United States Botanic Garden
www.usbg.gov

Mexico

Hide & Seek

It is worth making time for! These photos are taken by yours truly. If you choose to use any of them proper citation is appreciated.

The Cheerleader

Gossip Girls

Sunday

Starburst

Lava Love

Twinkle Lights

The Bride

Fireworks


What!?

Rachael

Wonderland

Trumpet

Ouch

Square Dance

The Asian American Festival

Little drummer

A favorite Koren specialty, kimchee

henna hand after a little meditation!

Local belly dancing school performing

Dan can make friends wherever he goes!

Time for a snack!

Just look at the smile on the little boy!

Dinner tonight

2011-06-10T23:32:00.000-04:00

Lemongrass chicken, grilled pineapple and wet rice. No, it is not supposed to be wet! I have been banned from cooking all things Asian. Though I received a slight compliment from the Asian tonight, so it must have been better than last time. Or maybe he was just starrrrrvvinngg. note: there is no green on the plate; I had nothing to do with that. Eat your veggies please! Next time I make rice it will be my BFF Andrea's Brasilian style. Yummy!

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yummy summer!!

2011-06-07T12:55:00.001-04:00

What do you do with raspberries? I like them plain, over ice cream, in salads, with whipped cream...
A delicious part of the summer heat!

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Shopping allowance

2011-06-01T23:11:00.001-04:00

Model #2 Dolce & Gabbana

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Why I should have a shopping allowance...

2011-06-01T23:09:00.002-04:00

Model #1...Dolce & Gabbana

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This is for Cassiman!

2011-06-01T23:04:00.001-04:00

Such a cute little package!

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Eastern Market Tango

2011-05-19T21:55:00.001-04:00

It was sweet success for us tonight at Tango class! We can actually walk and incorporate four different steps in our routine. We have been at this for about one month now, there have been a few snippy remarks exchanged between us, a lot of frustration, some laughs and tears. But tonight, we are all smiles, Senor "Don" Daniel is now the leader! Ok, let's not get too crazy, he is the "boss" at Tango!

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Rainbow

2011-05-04T18:49:00.001-04:00

This rainbow was very big hovering over National airport in DC

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BBBbbirthday!

2011-05-02T22:56:00.000-04:00

Dan is having a big birthday on Friday and I had been planning an outdoor picnic for him for Sunday past but mother nature had a different idea. Rain

We had to call and cancel all of our guests however our siblings and their children joined us for 10 pounds of potato salad, tons of coleslaw, grilled corn, oodles of cupcakes and so on!

In spite of the rain we had a nice time together in our tight squeeze apartment!

My Mom made a target for squirt guns so we headed outside for a few rounds. But of course Uncle Dan had to be the target; he is such a big kid!

This is one satisfied little boy, a squirt gun and a cup full of candy!

We headed back inside for birthday cupcakes lit up with sparklers for the big 4-0!

The lucky birthday boy with his gift from the Valentino's of the Eastern Shore! That grin tells it all!
Tickets for all of us to witness the Orioles take out the Boston Red Sox..oh I mean to cheer on the Sox (go Yankees!) on a Wednesday afternoon in July. We are all playing hooky for a fun day at the ball park! He is already talking hot dogs...cotton candy and ice cream. That's my guy!
It was a fun day and oh so nice for us to have all our kids together for some fun.

Though there was one who was happy to see all those people leave his domain...

ahhh...this is the life

Wedding Bells!

2011-04-29T06:23:00.000-04:00

The Royal Wedding is today, I had no plans to watch it but for some strange reason I woke up at 5 am! Really, I just can't resist a wedding! I would marry my Daniel over and over again. Our wedding day was beautiful, I married my Prince and don't you know...I have always been a Princess!
And now the moment we have all been waiting for....
The dress

GAME FACE

2011-04-20T22:01:00.002-04:00

So, its that hockey time of the year, the Stanley Cup playoffs. I will not bore you with my usual "Rock the Red" speech I am just sharing the "game face" with you.
I know ...look at that outfit, and the head band! Ohhhh so sexxxy.
I think I will post the game schedule on our front door so the neighbors know this will eventually come to an end.
Tonight 3-0 NY Rangers 1-2 period/
3rd period CAPS tie the game 3-3 now in OT. Fingers crossed I don't have to go to bed with the "pouter game face".
Feel my pain...
Hockey is fun!

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The tropical cat

2011-04-20T21:50:00.001-04:00

I dont think the palm from church has a smell. Well let's just say I can't smell the scent of palm. Every Palm Sunday, every year, I go to great lengths to hide it from my fuzzy troublemaker. He eats it and then it makes him sick! Why do cats do this?
This year I put it up high on a shelf in the kitchen and wouldnt you know it...he got it. I don't know how or when but just look at him...that is a bad cat.

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ALF

2011-04-19T16:37:00.000-04:00

Meet Alf, the latest addition to my brothers family! This guinea pig has got three little girls to love him now. The girls, Audrey primarily wanted a dog or a cat somehow they were convined by their parents a guinea pig was just what they needed! When we were visiting Audrey told us she really likes Alf because she can hold him. And hold him and hold him...she really loves animals. A few hours later she told us he peed. Yes Alf relieved himself on her. Poor guy...she loves him so much she just cant put him down.

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Stormy weather

2011-04-05T11:24:00.001-04:00

Made the train just in time before this arrived!
Today is just the perfect day to stay home, snuggle up on the couch with Lorenzo and watch movies.
Too bad I am at work!

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Anyone for Tango?

2011-03-31T23:57:00.000-04:00

Success! After trying swing, 2 step and now Tango we have found our voice...err rhythm!

Every Thursday night and every first Saturday evening of the month there is a meet up group at Eastern Market. It was wonderful! Our instructors, Jake and Dana Rae were clear and very helpful. They were encouraging and willing to work with each of us one on one. AND the music is fabulous! We are not quite past the embrace and walk but we hope to someday be here...

Personally I am looking forward for a new reason to buy SHOES!! Even Daniel is shoe shopping... says he needs dancing shoes!

YES! I needed this...

2011-03-30T14:29:00.000-04:00

I have learned from many important women in my life...when the going gets tough; the tough go shopping!
I bought this watch for the gallery gift shop and today after my Wednesday meeting I noticed it there in the case. You know when you just know...you need something...the watch smiled at me.

AND since my Movado has been out of commission since September and I have no working watch I really needed this! It's a happy color wheel and perfect for the summer.

Blossoms

2011-03-30T14:01:00.000-04:00

Here is where you will find I can not resist posting photos of the Cherry Blossoms here in DC.
For a few short weeks every year we enjoy the beauty of these buds.

They are infectious and I just can not resist sharing with you!

Nicks Country

2011-03-25T18:46:00.001-04:00

In Alexandria...go figure.

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Learning to 2 step tonight!!

2011-03-25T18:45:00.001-04:00

So tonight is the first night I feel like I live in the south. Ha, we will see how this goes...I'm always saying this...poor Dan!

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la luna

2011-03-22T20:31:00.001-04:00

This was the beautiful moon on Saturday night in Annapolis.

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Blossoms

2011-03-19T06:47:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was such a warm day. The temperature rose to 79. It was the perfect conditions for the many buds to pop open. The pollen fireworks are about to begin. Spring is bittersweet the beauty of the new is breathtaking but so is the pollen. Hello Claritan D! *Now let me get my camera*

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you can't see me...

2011-03-14T19:15:00.001-04:00

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you've got a friend...

2011-03-14T19:10:00.001-04:00

One morning before work. A freight train resting on the tracks near Braddock road metro provides a positive note for the day.

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Turkey time

2011-03-14T18:58:00.001-04:00

The time change had nothing to do with the spring in his step. This turkey flew the coop! This is an alley in Del Ray where I saw this sleek and trim fellow struting his stuff this morning. Good thing its not November!

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Cuteness...with love from Japan!

2011-03-01T10:30:00.001-05:00

Some days I love what I do an d other days ...well you know...MEH!

Today I am the luckiest girl! In my annual quest for Cherry Blossom merchandise I stumbled upon this wonderful umbrella from Mingei Japan. I know it appears to be a simple navy blue umbrella but when it rains these little cherry blossoms magically appear!!

Too bad it rained yesterday!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T11:24:00.000-05:00

Dont you just love a vintage Valentine! Find yours here

Baby Drew

2011-02-09T23:31:00.000-05:00

Andrew Bryan Vu Yasutake
born 1/13/11 at 10:26 pm
7 lbs, 9 ozs
19 3/4 in

This is the newest addition to our family, each year the Valentino-Vu clan grows larger and stronger! This little guy is the handsome boy who belongs to our cousins Vivian and Andy in California. We wish we could have been there physically to support them through the first very challenging 4 weeks of this little guys life. We are with you in our hearts.

Drew was born with a congenital heart defect in his little heart called Pulmonary Atresia Intact Ventricular Septum (PA-IVS). This means that the pulmonary valve between his right ventricle and right pulmonary artery did not open and close properly like a normal healthy heart.
Due to this, the blood to be oxygenated by the lungs and then distributed to the rest of the body through the aorta was not sufficient on its own.

After a series of events and surgery little baby Drew is home and recovering well. He is growing stronger and bigger and we can not wait to meet the little guy!

We love you Yasutakes!! Your amazing strength and love is inspiring.
Read their story here

Isn't he a cutie!

Excellent!

2011-02-08T17:22:00.000-05:00

These poster designs by Mike Monteiro are true-isms. Thank you Mr. Monterio for pointing these out to us.
My mother would like you.

Untitled (May the bridges I burn light the way.)
by Mike Monteiro

Superbowl snacker...

2011-02-06T20:05:00.000-05:00

Soooo we didn't quite make it to the Korean short ribs since my guy needed a snack and I made this for him...

Yes, that is what you think it is...nachos! And yes he does have a hollow leg.
Though the ribs will wait till tomorrow.

Super DUPER SUNDAY!

2011-02-06T14:32:00.000-05:00

My Daniel has officially declared Superbowl Sunday a national holiday as do many other men. It's a day to lay around and EAT. I, in another life would ignore these requests (not my style) but it is what he enjoys. But why is this year the super Duper Sunday? Well there is one very important hockey game on today; Capitals vs Penguins at 12:30 (2-0 right now) and then the Superbowl at 6:30.
So for round one; hockey, I made these:

Shanghai-Chicken-Wings
from the Saveur magazine website. Next time I will top them with sesame seeds and scallions!
When you look at the recipe do not be discouraged by all of the very potent ingredients. When combined they become a perfect balance of sweet and tangy with just the right amount of heat. Not hot in the mouth just a little sting on the lips. Of course if you like it HOT and some do...I am sure adding a little more chili or even a splash of Sriracha would work fine. I will make these again with side dishes of jasmine rice and Chinese broccoli with garlic and oil.

ROUND 2 TODAY; Korean BBQ short ribs.
later!

Oh Mr. Winter; its time for you to go to bed.

2011-02-06T01:38:00.000-05:00

I think this is my Aunt Mary in Chicago after the winter blast! Holy...that is what we looked like last year! My Uncle David said schools were closed for two days. Let me just say they most certainly are better prepared for this sort of thing; when we had snowmaggedon in 2008 the schools were closed for over 1 week and even the government (that's me!) was home for an entire week! I was hoping for some snow this year enough for one extra day off but now I just want winter to end.

I think we are all really looking forward to spring. It is really beautiful in Washington DC in the spring. Come and see the Cherry Blossoms!

National Cherry Blossom Festival

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Nutellaicious!!

2011-02-06T00:07:00.001-05:00

Today is World Nutella Day and to celebrate I made sweet crepes with Nutella and strawberries!

Thanks to Michelle Fabio of Bleeding Espresso and Sara Rossi of Ms. Adventures in Italy we have this fabulous day to share our love of Nutella!

My husband who loves all things Italian (especially me!) never tried Nutella until today.
I know; what a sin! But he is a stubborn Taurus and always refused.

How did I get him to do it? The crepes! He loves hazelnut everything and he adores good chocolate (though he will tell you he does not eat sweets) so I just could not understand the resistance.
I am happy to say...persistence paid off!
The melted goodness of Nutella inside the warm, soft, delicate crepes was the answer. I think he is hooked!

Good to the last Nutellaicious!

A cuddly year

2011-02-03T23:49:00.000-05:00

It is the Chinese year of the rabbit and the Vietnamese year of the cat.
Whatever you fancy, it is going to be a fabulous year! Sooo cute!

"Chuc Mung Nam Moi"

2011-02-03T22:29:00.000-05:00

Happy lunar new year! Happy spring!

another

2011-02-01T00:14:00.001-05:00

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my napper

2011-02-01T00:12:00.001-05:00

Lorenzo knows how to nap

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Happy Birthday

2011-01-29T23:54:00.001-05:00

Tonight we met family at Brio in Annapolis for a belated birthday dinner. Christie is our January birthday gal. It is always great fun to be with our nieces and enjoy a nice meal!

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the sidewalks

2011-01-27T11:13:00.001-05:00

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Thundersnow

2011-01-27T11:12:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we were dismissed 2 hours early due to the winter storm approaching. My neighbor and I were giggling like school girls on our commute home because it was raining! Well let's just say the joke was on us. It began to hail/ice and then sleet/ snow. But the most unusual is the thundersnow? If I did not see it with my own eyes I really don't think I would believe it thunders and that there is lightning during a snow storm. Yes it is true Virginia...there really is such a thing. The snow came quickly and as you can see from the photo will go quickly. We are a true mess! That is the crosswalk I am to use to make my way to work. We ended the evening with 6 inches. Of course that is not too much but it was on top of ice. Still it pales to NYC who had 19 inches in central park last night and this was their third significant snow this season.

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Atlanta

2011-01-25T23:29:00.000-05:00

Mid January I traveled to Atlanta for work and stayed at this adorable boutique hotel HOTEL INDIGO

Lobby View

The hotel was quiet and clean, the staff was tremendously helpful and friendly and it is only one block away from the MARTA and only 2 stops away from the Atlanta Giftmart!

This is exactly how my room looked minus the snack tray! The best thing about these rooms...no carpeting. There is nothing more disgusting than carpeting in a hotel room. All of the rooms have pergo. There is also a nice coat rack and no closets just a pretty armoire.

There are many locations across the country. I recommend resting your pretty head here.

Cha..cha...changes...

2011-01-25T22:59:00.000-05:00

So by now you may have noticed I can not make up my mind. The appearance of my blog has changed repeatedly over the last few weeks. Sorry, I just can't decide.
Honestly I feel the same way about my home. Lately I have wanted to clean house, toss it all out and start over. Well maybe not everything; there are a few things I would like to keep.
It may have something to do with the cold weather? Spring is on its way and I think I am looking for a fresh (more organized) start!

nighty night!

2011-01-13T22:20:00.001-05:00

I can not believe I can blog from my smart phone. Honestly technology has not been a priority to me until now. This droid is amazing! Thank you Santa Dan and to my brother for running over his blackberry!! Im leaving on a business trip and I don't think I need to lug my computer with me. Woo hoo!

PS that is my baby boy Lorenzo doing what I'm about to do!

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Buon notte

2011-01-13T22:08:00.001-05:00

Im saying goodnight from my droid!

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.5

Warm fuzzies

2011-01-11T21:42:00.000-05:00

No words needed...this is just beautiful.

OH NO!

2011-01-07T13:29:00.000-05:00

Wall Street Journal- Rayon Makes a Fashion Comeback

It just can't be...RAYON???!!! I am a kid of the 80's and wearing wood pulp is not recommended.
Do you remember rayon? I remember rayon.

Impossible to iron, wrinkles when you touch it (well when you look at it), sometimes has a very funny smell and fades easily. Why, why WHY? Can't we all just pay a little more?

Maybe they have improved its properties...
We can only hope.

My wish to you...

2010-12-29T17:23:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas and a Very Happy and Healthy New Year to All!

THE A.M.

2010-12-15T12:30:00.000-05:00

I have to laugh. You guessed it, another metro mess.
This morning there was a suspicious package at Pentagon (my yellow line, of course). Fortunately for me we once again bypassed the station entirely, making my ride to work more like express! Ah a new day, but everyday this week metro has had a problem. It is a curious thing.

Mondays..um

2010-12-14T22:13:00.000-05:00

It is actually the end of Tuesday but this morning certainly had all the attributes of a Monday.
It is cold, brutally cold. Did I say it's COLD? Arrgghh freezing and windy really. It takes your breath away. I walked to the bus, no of course I was not on time for the one close to home. So I walked and waited in the cold. I was pleasantly warm in my long camel coat, thanks Mom. It is going on 7 years old and it is still fabulous.
Once on the train I was hot in my layer upon layer. The train became crowded with the typical morning rush and I began to sweat! Then of course reliable metro offloaded an entire train on my route so we held in a tunnel for a while. And then...we bypassed my metro stop! We were dumped off at Gallery Place. It is not that far from my office (4 blocks) but the point is it's freakin' COLD. And now I have just paid more to ride the train to a destination I did not desire. Thanks metro.
It seems to me if the metro system bypasses stops occasionally during rush hour the amount of extra fare paid should keep it in better working order. I know it is mere pennies but when you calculate just how many people would have exited the train at the earlier stop, it adds up!
It turns out there was a suspicious package at the Starbucks building across the street from my metro stop. I should be thankful that it was not a fire (metro center closed down yesterday for a fire) or that it was not a chunk of the ceiling inside a metro station falling on my head (that happened last week) or that I was not caught in the middle of a teen battle (Chinatown/Gallery place metro stop at the end of the summer 2010) or even that I was not in a deadly train crash (that occurred in July 2009). Metro has been gouging its customers to make up for the bad budgeting, poor planning, botched repairs and other disasters that have been exposed since that crash in 2009. We will even experience yet another fare hike after the first of the year. That means we will pay more to ride DC Metro than New Yorkers pay for their much more efficient and elaborate subway system.
And for what really?
The metro gets me to work most days and thankfully so, since our traffic isn't much better.

The day progresses and I begin planning my evening. I bought velvet curtains from Ikea many months ago. Nope they are still not up! I returned to Ikea a month ago for the hardware to hang them. Then I made a trip to Home Depot one week ago to buy the fabulous monster anchors for our fabulous plaster walls of the 1930's. This wonderful old man, old yes, he looked like a skinny Santa Clause with a cane helped me select the right hardware. With my brackets in hand we settled on what we thought were the right supplies. Umm NO. I removed the old hardware from the wall, measured everything out and opened the box of screws. Something told me to be sure my flat head screws fit flush in the bracket. They did not. So here I am archiving my day.
Oh well, tomorrow will be a fresh start!

Who knew?

2010-12-09T13:24:00.000-05:00

What I should say...Who knew and didnt tell me!

Valentino for GAP?!

Brrrrrr...

2010-12-08T23:33:00.000-05:00

Has it been cold where you live? Around these parts it has been unseasonably cold and windy! Where do I live...Chicago?! It is in the low 20's tonight. I am looking forward to the next couple of days, our weather man predicted 40's. No time for cheering though next week will be high 20's during the day! ick
So it has come to this, talk about the weather. It usually comes down to that when there is nothing to say. You are at happy hour with folks you don't know very well and what do you say? You talk about the weather!
Honestly there is plenty to tell. I am just exhausted, I can't keep up with myself.

Right now I am cold and tired and will check in soon with a slide show of the last 2 months!

Night night...let me know if you like the changes I made to the blog!

My boy "the licker"

2010-10-19T21:22:00.000-04:00

My poor baby boy...I am not a crazy cat woman but I have come to Love my Lorenzo no matter how bad he can be (scratching my new couch). Having a pet brings so much joy, most days they just love you. Dogs always love you...cats on the other hand are very particular and moody; hmmm does he sound like someone you know? So getting to my boy...on Sunday I noticed he was jumping in and out of his box too many times and then he was out squatting on the floor and nothing was happening. We rushed him over to the vet and 600$ later (thank goodness for pet insurance) found out he has a UTI! Special food, special drugs and lots of water. How do you make a cat drink? sheesh. I was worried, the vet kept talking kidney stones but at the end of the day today I can see he is getting better. He is playing and eating and swatting our feet when we walk by. All is returning to normal.
Just imagine this; your at the vet, who is male (Ethiopian with a very heavy accent), with your husband, who is male, and the vet is explaining how the boy cats have this problem often because the urethra is very small, a little tiny opening and little tiny crystals develop causing the infection which then causes the boy to lick and lick and lick "it" making it worse. How do you not laugh?
I mean ...oh, never mind!!
So we have a follow up on Halloween for"the licker".
Hopefully all will be fine.

Here...there...and everywhere.

2010-10-15T00:56:00.005-04:00

Since August we have been running around non stop! I remember when I was a kid the days felt like weeks and months like years. Here I am quickly approaching another birthday and the days feel like minutes. How do you make the clock stop? That is a question asked for hundreds of years I am sure. Daniel would probably say, check the Mayan calendar since it will come to an end soon!

So that leads me to where the heck we have been!
In late august this beauty joined the family. Meet Olivia!

A week later we left for Florida for a vacation. We had a visit with Poppy, Uncle Bill and Aunt Rose for four days and then on Sunday we left on a cruise to the western Caribbean, visiting Grand Cayman, Belize, Isla Roatan and Cozumel. These were some of the most beautiful places to see and even better from the balcony of our cabin. Below is a small slide show from our trip.

When we returned from our trip it was the middle of September and we were both facing rigorous schedules at work. When we left it was 100 degrees and upon our return it was a cool and dry 60, it is autumn!

A week after we settled in the family had a Welcome Olivia party and we were able to finally meet Maura Claire, our niece from Boston. She is a beautiful smiling girl who is always happy and loves loves loves guacamole! A girl after my own heart. *sigh*

My mom made these great favors for the party!

I made these dancing cupcakes for the party which were a

big hit especially with my nephew Colin!

She Who Dares...

2010-09-29T22:56:00.000-04:00

Oh my, could it be? My dream...it came true? You know...the one I did not know I was having until a fabulous marketing manager came along and created the dream for me...
DISNEY & MAC cosmetics! The Evil Queen has to be my favorite villain; so elegant and wonderfully horrible!

This was made for me and maybe 1 million other women who refuse at 30 something to walk around with a 101 Dalmatians purse. Nope, for me a Furla bag with Disney cosmetics inside will do just fine!
These are devilishly beautiful....Now go shop for your dark side... Venomous Villains cosmetics here

Oh baby!

2010-08-14T00:10:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Julie and Justin on their baby girl!

Olivia Frizell

August 12, 2010

We are looking forward to meeting the little bundle of love tomorrow!

Mother Nature

2010-08-07T14:44:00.000-04:00

She did not spare our little town of Del Ray on Thursday. Around 4 pm the sky turned black, the wind picked up, lightning and thunder moved in and the rain came. I was at work in the city and had no idea of the damage this storm that lasted about one hour until it was time to go home.
The commute was two hours and usually it takes about 45 minutes!

By the time I was walking through my neighborhood it was close to 8pm and it was very clear to me that this was serious. All of the traffic lights were out and many many power lines were down. This tree is right next to our building and pulled down the power lines knocking out our electricity. Many of the neighborhood streets were closed due to electricity poles down with transformers smashed in the street. A neighbor told me that the wind was clocked at 75 mph! We finally have power again. It is really sad to see all these beautiful old trees die. Later in the evening we picked up Rachel C. from the train and saw another tree on top of a car! I honestly think there were a few little twisters for all of the damage that was done.
It was a hot night in the apartment!

Poor Rachel, a hot night and a morning with no straightener!

Once Upon a Time...

2010-08-03T22:04:00.000-04:00

There was this lovely couple who called themselves Naomi and Nick!
This past weekend was filled with lots of preparation for their baby shower which took place on Sunday. What fun it was to plan a coed baby shower! It was an outdoor event and a beautiful day.

Cones filled with Cracker Jacks, yes they had a prize inside!

Momma and Papa bear

Flowers by yours truly and the guest book. We though it would be nice if their guests wrote a little bitty bit of parental advice!

Melissa and her sister made these beautiful paper flowers that hung from the trees.

Joanne came up with this wonderful idea! Every guest used fabric markers and made a personalized onesie for the little girl that is on her way!


La familia

Orange infused vanilla and chocolate cupcakes with edible butterflies.

Nicole came up with some great games; guess how big the Mommy is...but the best was the diaper guessing game! She melted various chocolate bars inside diapers and the guests had to smell the diaper to determine which one was which...Heath bar, Kit Kat, Reese's etc.!

It was a beautiful day!

A Family Fourth!

2010-07-05T23:57:00.000-04:00

The three day weekend was so nice spent with family and friends. My mom arrived on Saturday and we headed to the Smithsonian Folk Life Festival on the National Mall. This year they featured Mexico, Asian Pacific Americans and Behind the Scenes at the Smithsonian. We met Mom's friend Betsey and watched the Palo Volantín Ceremony. The four men who performed were father and son.

In the evening we met Dan's mother and
grandmother for picnic on the Potomac where we were able to see fireworks from Belle Haven Country Club and the National Harbor. The weather was perfectly comfortable and our picnic was delicious!

On the Fourth we had such a relaxing day at home making delicious potato salad preparing for the BBQ at Cathy & Chris home. It was such an exciting day as we welcomed the newest addition to the family Molly; a Boston terrier! Kate came up from Charlottesville and Chris' Mom Sue Ellen was in town with her fiancee. We spent time with Julie and Justin; rubbed her belly waiting just six more weeks for Olivia to arrive. Kate had sparklers for the kids some were shy but not our Colin; he is all boy, built tough! Here are a few photos of the fun day!

Sadie hoping she can sneak a lick in!

Independence Day!

2010-07-04T15:45:00.000-04:00

Wishing you all have a fantastic day today.

Celebrate our beautiful country with great pride!

All photos taken on the National Mall 2009

2010-06-29T22:49:00.000-04:00

A few photos of Beach Lake, PA. Of course we could not help but notice the wonderful antique shop up on the hill. Jay the owner is a very nice man who happens to be a contractor in NYC. He has stumbled upon some great things at his day job! I can not wait to return to the big red barn to pick up my Italian headboards!

They are fit for a princess!

A June Wedding

2010-06-29T22:26:00.000-04:00

Recently I went to a wedding in Beach Lake, Pennsylvania. You may know that this is close to the Poconos and on the border of New York. It is a quaint little town, you feel as if you have stepped back in time. The locals know each other and are friendly to the visitors. An unfamiliar feeling to me since friendly is not usually in the same sentence as Washington DC. It was a beautiful weekend full of laughs and fun!

Here is the happy couple!

The wedding was beautiful with a woodsy wildflower theme.

A photo of the beautiful bride!

Another Bambino!

2010-06-22T22:31:00.000-04:00

Last Friday our cousins Vivian and Andy arrived from California for a short visit with great news!

They are pregnant with their first baby!

Congratulations!

Is it really the first day of Summer?

2010-06-21T21:03:00.000-04:00

Time passes much too quickly and I am neglecting the blog. Sorry!
Spring has been good to us. Cool nights and comfortable days in spite of a 10,000 pollen count in April! While I don't usually have allergy problems even my sinuses sung this year. Hopefully, with summer just around the corner all of the suffering is over.

We have taken advantage of some of the wonderful DC events that occur each spring and celebrated a few special events. These photos were taken at the Smithsonian Natural History Museum. A not to miss museum on the National Mall. They have completely remodeled the mammal hall and the ocean hall. A fabulous way to spend the day!

These photos were taken at the National Cherry Blossom festival. This is a beautiful event that commemorates the 1912 gift to the city of Washington of 3,000 cherry blossom trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo. The celebration runs for a solid two weeks while the blossoms are in bloom. If you have never walked the tidal basin while they are in bloom you are missing something truly stunning.

Nina Zilli

2010-06-04T11:28:00.002-04:00

Nina Zilli

2010-06-04T11:20:00.001-04:00

I tried to buy her album on itunes however it is not available in the USA. I'm sad...really love her.

Maybe someone out there could pick it up for me? I would be so grateful!

http://www.ninazilli.com/

ooo la la...LA LA ...LA LA

2010-06-03T15:16:00.000-04:00

Playing for the World- Vanity Fair Annie Leibovitz

Louise Bourgeois, otherwise known as 'Spiderwoman'

2010-06-02T17:17:00.004-04:00

Dear Louise,

Thank You for taking risks, expressing yourself and sharing it all with us.

                                                                         With warm regards,
                                                                                 Rachael

Learn about her here...