My Bella Vita

There's a New Blog in Town

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

And, it's mine!

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

Italian Politics...Are We There Yet?

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

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

Hmmm...?

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

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

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

But, I digress...the article.

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

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

There is no bridge.

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

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

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

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

Read the full article here.

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

Hugs are in the Mail!

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

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

And, isn't it lovely?

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

Love letters, perhaps?

Messages from a secret admirer?

Bills from Enel?

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

Happy Love Thursday!

Italian Games

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

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

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

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

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

(Boh!)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Sei pronta a splendere?

You ready for shine???

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

Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit

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

of Happiness.

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

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

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

Apparently, we all do.

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

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

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

Ain't got no cash,

Ain't got no style

Ain't got no girl to make you smile

But don't worry

Be happy

Cause when you worry

Your face will frown

And that will bring everybody down

So don't worry,

Be happy...

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

Meme Monday: Friday Fill-Ins

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

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

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

---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Birthday Wishes for Mom

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

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

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

It wasn't here...

Or, here...

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for always putting us first.

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

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

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

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

The Side Effects of Love

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

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

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

It can make you feel warm all over.

Kinda like this.

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

You gotta love a man who thinks of the blog.

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

Put Me in Coach...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I miss baseball.

I miss it. A lot.

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

I rarely played.

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

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

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

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

And, I miss that, too.

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

Hmmm....

Guess I could go to the ballet.

Adieu, Pazzo Marzo

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

Ahhh....j'adore Spring!

I really do.

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

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

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

Marzo pazzarello

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

Even when it is sunny, carry an umbrella.

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

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

Meme Monday: Seven

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

Guilty! I'm guilty...

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

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

Fun for you, I know...

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

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

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

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

Here goes:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Better Late than Never - Poste Italiane

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

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

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

You know what I say to that?

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

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

We received it this week.

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

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

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

Ain't that nice?

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

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

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

Hmmm...

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

Buon weekend!

Un Segno di Dio

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

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

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

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

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

Ahhhh.....

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

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

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

And, somehow, I felt a little better.

Happy Love Thursday!

Happy Easter and Buona Pasqua

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

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

I know. I knooooow.

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

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

Until...

I walked out of my bedroom to find this note.

"Hmmm..." I thought.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What could be better?

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

Holy Weekend - Easter in Italy

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

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

Well, now I have.

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

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

We waited.

Finally, we overheard...

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

"Children?" I thought.

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

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

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

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

After another half hour, they were ready to begin.

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

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

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

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

Pasqua Fun Facts

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

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

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

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

About Easter, that is.

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

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

Crazy, huh?

Here's the scoop:

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

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

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

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

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

Buona Pasqua, and Happy Spring Equinox!

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

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

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

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

Introducing: “La Buona Cucina Americana.”

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

I know. I know...

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

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

And, you'd be right.

But, this one is just a tad different.

Judith is challenging us.

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

What fun!

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

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

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

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

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

Tomorrow is Festa Italiana.

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

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

ANGRY PASTA

Or, as we say in Italian

Pasta All' Arrabbiato

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

You'll need:

- Spaghetti (one pound)

- Cubed pancetta (1/2 pound)

- Tomato sauce (2 1/2 cups)

- Garlic (one clove)

- Crushed red pepper (to taste)

- Grated parmesan cheese (to taste)

- Olive oil (one tablespoon)

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

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

3. Brown pancetta.

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

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

6. Combine spaghetti and sauce and serve immediately.

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

Delizioso!

Heart Palm Leaves Make the Heart Happy

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

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

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

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

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

Happy LT, everyone!

---

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

Festa di San Giuseppe

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

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

Remember?

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

Because, my friends. Today is officially

San Giuseppe Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

Auguri and Buona Festa di San Giuseppe!

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

Grabbing a Whopper

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

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

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

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

Well, let me back up a bit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The final diagnosis?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- Chug more water than you ever thought you could.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Why not," I thought.

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

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

After she left, I looked to Peppe for confirmation.

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

Peppe struggled, unsuccessfully, to repress a grin.

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

Hum! Can't imagine!

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

Big butt...hum!

I'm never going back there again!

And, the Winner Is....

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cher and Gene Klosner of Stardust Lullaby

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

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

Playful Professional of Play More, Laugh More, Live More

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

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

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

My Blog Wants to

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

Party all the time
Party all the time

Party all the tiiiiiiimme.

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

Perfect!

You sound just like me!

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

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

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

(insert embarrassing looks here)

I haven't introduced myself.

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

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

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

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

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

But, to win a cool prize...

What?!? There are prizes?

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

You might even win my prize!

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

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

Enjoy the party!

I'll be back!

----

PS-My top prize choices are

INTL 2 — Nonfiction Proposal Tutorial

Provided by: Mary DeMuth

# 24 — Blog Design

Provided by: Sweet ‘n Simple Design

# 67 — Blog Makeover

Provided by: Shauna

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

Love Thursday: Let the GOLD Times Roll

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It worked.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Everyone but us.

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

Many more happy years.

Many more healthy years.

Auguri Maw Maw and Papa and Happy LT!

Cutting Through the Tape - Part II

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

The saga continues...

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

Ma, perche'?

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

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

---

Scene IV: APT Tourism Office in Catanzaro

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

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

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

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

"Did the law change?"

Tourism Man: "No."

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

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

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

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

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

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

Problem #1 - Settled!

---

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

"Yea...ok."

Problem #2 - Done!

---

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

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

Problem #3 - Not even a problem!

---

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

"Nope."

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

"Why?"

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

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

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

"Yep. Right in front of us!"

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

Cutting Through the Tape - Part I

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

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

"Cutting Through the Tape - Part I"

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

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

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

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

Cherrye Moore

Place of Birth: Catanzaro, Italy

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

Enter: Last Friday.

Scene I: The Coffee Machine Repair Shop

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

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

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

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

---

Scene II: The Questura in Catanzaro

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

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

"Mmmm...excuse me?"

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

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

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

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

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

Dio Mio....

---

Scene III: The Comune di Catanzaro

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Si. It does. Jefferson County."

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

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

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