Palmabella's Passions

We flew to Oakland on Thanksgiving morning, arriving at noon, when Roxanne picked us up at the Oakland airport, and drove us to Charlotte and Cindy's home. Our ride to the Ontario airport was stressful with a blowout at 85 in the fast lane, and Brad changing a tire on the freeway!

Dinner was wonderful, everyone ate too much, and went to bed full!

Friday was what I most looked forward to...SHOPPING! Brad and I were on an 8 a.m. BART train to Market Street in San Francisco. We started at Bloomie's, met Joy at 10:00 at Nordstrom, took a coffee break, shopped some more, and met Kim and her family at Kuletto's at 1:30. We had lunch, and wine before resuming our shopping mission.

Roxanne joined us, and we stopped at Crate and Barrel, Gumps, and finally joined everyone at 6:00 for a cocktail at the St. Francis. I saw the big tree lighting in Union Square, and we took off to North Beach in three taxies for dinner at "Firenze by Night". Brad had fabulous escargot, I shared sausage -stuffed mushrooms with Joy, and had veal in a pesto-cream sauce.

Saturday, we shopped at the Ferry Building Markets, buying cheese, breads, cold cuts, and hloiday gift items. We relaxed at Charlotte's and had an enjoyable drink with my old boss, Steve. Then we returned to S.F. with Charlotte and Cindy for a fabulous dinner at "Boulevard". After a lemon drop, I started with foie gras, then veal with hen-of the-woods mushrooms, fried mozarella with prosciutto, and zucchini. For dessert, I had an apple torte with apple fritter gelato. YUM!

Sunday was a lazy, rainy day. We relaxed all day, ate yesterday's food purchases and Cajun Bread Pudding with ice cream. We had an easy flight and drive home to nice, dry, desert weather. We agreed it was a lovely weekend, with our perfect hostesses, and we may need to make it an annual event. Great friends, great food, great shopping!

Jan and I left at 9:00 a.m. for Orange County, and by 11:00 we were parked by Nordstrom at South Coast Plaza. We met for lunch at noon, but Jan became ill, so I got her settled in her room at the Marriott Suites, and went back to the mall. I shopped for five more hours, and returned to the hotel with 5 Nordstrom bags, one from Williams-Sonoma, one from Borders, three from Crate & Barrel, and a Chico's bag! Not bad for Day 1 of the weekend!

Brad arrived around 7:30, and met me for a drink in the hotel bar. Les had come to take poor Jan home, but she was to ill with the flu to travel Friday night. Les had a drink with us before our lovely dinner at Antonello's. We started with a glass of prosecco, and then a nice salad with pears and gorgonzola. For his entree, Brad had veal, and I had my favorite dish on their menu: rolled lasagna pasta stuffed with cheese and prosciutto in a pink sauce and bechamel.

I enjoyed coffee while Brad indulged in a chocolate lava cake with ice cream and fudge.

On Saturday, we headed to the Bead Show at the Fair Grounds. We arrived shortly after it started at 10:00, and I frantically bought beads until 2:00, with one 10 minute break! It was overwhelming to see booth after booth with thousands of choices of stones, beads, crystals and gems! I will have lots of great January projects to work on!

We returned to South Coast Plaza and had lunch at Lawery's Carvery. Yummy prime rib sandwiches! Then we shopped...AGAIN.

We did quite well and added a few new bags to the stash. It is getting crowded in our hotel suite!

We had some "down time" and relaxed in the hotel. After a nap, we went out for a snack, as neither of us wanted dinner.

Sunday, we slept in, had coffee, and checked out at 10:00. We barely got all the shopping bags in Brad's trunk, and put our luggage in the back seat.
This is the SECOND load!

We headed to Corona del Mar and had brunch at Bristol Farms. I bought everything I wanted at Sur La Table, and we enjoyed an hour of the beautifully decorated Roger's Gardens decorated for Christmas! I bought a topiary basket I can "accessorize" for every holiday!

We were home by 2:00 to finish the last tree, and be on time for the Slow Talk monthly book club! A perfect shopping weekend (except for Jan getting sick!).

January SUCKS! I don't know exactly why I hate January so much every year, but I do. I count days for it to be over. It is one-twelfth of my life, but, evey year it seems to have the same effect on me. It is cold. (Ok, so I live in the desert, and it is currently in the 50s, but tonight it is supposed to hit 32 degrees!) I am not going outside. I am a cold wuss. You will not hear me complain in August when it is 118 degrees. It will be better than JANUARY!

I am also ALWAYS on a diet in January! Could be why I am GRUMPY. Actually, I am several of the dwarfs...Sleepy, Dopey, (Sneezy left, but I am still coughing!) I would like to crawl into bed and have someone wake me when January is over.

Since that is unlikely to happen, I must cope. My two usual coping strategies, cooking/eating, and SHOPPING, are not allowed right now. Oh sure, I can cook lowfat meals, whoopie..., or make another salad...contain my enthusiasm! I spent too much money in December, and at the Chico's opening January 4th (the last fun day in January), so I'm on self-imposed "Shopping Probation" for a while.

I have one coping mechanism left (alcohol has calories, so that's not it).

I will plan TRAVEL!

I am

I have been looking for flights for our June trip, and found some I like today! Our tentative itinerary looks like this:

Florence 4 nights
Montalcino 4 nights
Umbria 7 nights
Cortona 4 nights
Chianti 4 nights

It seems like lots of moving around, but this trip is about returning to "Oldies but Goodies", and spending more time in Umbria. There will be a wonderful GTG in Assisi during our travel where I hope to meet Slow Travellers Janet, Barb and Art, Jane, Ken and Casey, Giulia, Judith and Letizia. I will also get to visit again with Alessandra, Judy (Diva), and even Pauline and Steve! I hope to visit Jane again in Chianti, see Tania and Keith in Cortona, and hook up with Ida and Bill in Florence!

In-between Slow Travel, hunting for airfares, and naps, I have a few of my Italy books open:

I will just escape to Italian dreamland for the rest of the month!

On Friday, February 2, we will be joining a large group of Slow Travellers for a wine and food GTG in Paso Robles, California! Twelve of us will be sharing a rental house, http://www.cottageatcapitolhill.com/, where large group meals will take place. Brad and I will be staying at the house with Shannon, Colleen, Marcia and David, Beth, Marta and George!

Friday night kicks off the weekend with a pizza dinner, and meeting old and new friends.

Saturday's wine tasting agenda is as follows:

11:30 AM Wild Horse Winery
12:45 PM Castoro Cellars, Templeton. Shannon will be serving up cheese, pate and bread at this stop.
2:15 PM This is where the group will split up! There are four wineries to choose from.
4:00 PM Back to the house for the party.

I am going to hit the shops in Cambria in the morning ( and a BEAD store). I will meet the group (and see how much fun they are having) at Castoro Cellars. Well, I might need a snack! Then I'm back in downtown Paso to check out the Olive Oil shop and cheese store, and maybe a nap. I'm guessing Brad will need one before the party!

I'm bringing crab lasagna for Saturday night's dinner. We made two big pans last weekend, and they are waiting in the freezer!

Crab Filling:

1 lb. fresh crab, cleaned
1 c. ricotta
1 egg
3 chopped green onions
1 T. butter
7 oz. gruyere cheese, grated
zest of one lemon
salt and pepper

Sauté green onions in butter for 2 min.
Combine with crab and other ingredients in a bowl.

Bechamel sauce:

6 T. Butter
6 T. flour
4 c. milk
salt and pepper to taste

In med. saucepan, over med. heat, melt butter and flour, cooking for 2 min.
Whisk in milk. Cook, stirring until thick and boiling. Set aside.

Makes one 9x13 pan or 7-8 individual ramekins

Layer:
Béchamel sauce
Sheet of fresh pasta
Crab filling
Parmesan cheese
Repeat

Depending on pasta. If you use homemade pasta that is very thin, you will have 4-5 layers. If using purchased semolina pasta sheets, it will be 3-4 layers.
On very top, end with pasta, béchamel, parmesan, and pine nuts.

Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Can be made the day before and refrigerate until baking.

Friday morning, I drove the "back way" over the high desert to Las Vegas, with one Starbucks stop and another bathroom break. This is an interesting drive, but VERY isolated, and a little creepy with no other cars for miles, and no cell phone signal in case of an emergency! It took me 3 hours and 45 minutes.

I drove straight to Fashion Show Mall, and parked by Nordstrom. I phoned Vegas Ms. (Beth) from Slow Travel, and she met me for coffee with her mom, Betty. We had a nice visit talking about travel and ST, and upcoming GTGs! By the time we left the table, I think we had each gotten excited about each other's favorite vacation destinations...Italy for me...DUH!, and England for Beth!

On the shopping front, I purchased a lovely black pant suit, a top, a blouse, and a scarf! I checked into Caesar's and picked Brad up from the airport. We had an uneventful dinner and evening of gambling.

On Saturday, we lingered over coffee, then hit three bead stores, and bought a birthday gift. We had time for an afternoon nap before going to Brad's cousin, Connie's home for dinner. Connie and John have moved to a beautiful new house about 30 minutes from the Strip. We had drinks and a BBQ with cousins Connie and John, Marti, and Linda and Phil, as well as friends!

We made it back to the Mirage for Brad's early Valentine gift: tickets to see Jay Leno! We picked up tickets, had a latte, and took our seats for the 10:30 Jay Leno show.

The opening act was quite a wonderdul surprise! The "Alley Cats" performed for the first half hour. They are an A Capella Doo Wop group made up of 4 guys from Orange County. They were AMAZING! I sang along with all of their songs: "At the Hop", "Book of Love". "Run Around Sue", "La Bamba/Twist and Shout", "Barbara Ann", and the funniest was bringing an older gentleman up from the audience to do the Bass part to "Blue Moon". (Bomp-a-ta-bomp, bomp-a-ta-bomp, bang-a-ta-bang, Blue Moon!) I thought I'd wet my pants laughing as they had him singing and doing their choreography (ski poles step left, ski poles step right...). Here is their website. If you have a chance to see them, don't miss it!

http://www.thealleycats.com/index.html

Jay performed for a solid hour, barely stopping to take a breath. His routine was very funny, and pretty "clean"...refreshing for a headliner comedian in Vegas. We especially enjoyed his humor around America's poor eating habits, and stories of his Italian parents!

Sunday, we had a nice breakfast, walked through the Forum Shops (where I bought a pair of black/white walking shoes for Italy), and did a little more gambling. As we went to sleep at 3:00 a.m., we needed a nap, so we slept for a couple of hours, and got ready for Connie's 60th birthday dinner at Bally's.

We walked to Bally's and found the group in the appointed meeting place (a bar with music near the restaurant). We ordered drinks, and soon were seated at our table for 12 in the restaurant, "Al Dente". The table shared two orders of bruchetta, and two orders of fried calamari...more wine was ordered. While we waited for our entrees, we were served a complementary bowl of something that looked like one green ravioli sitting in a bowl of orangy-pink sauce. The first taste was a surprise in several ways. It was green ice cream sitting in a canteloupe "soup". The ice cream was basil flavored, and would have been lovely on it's own, or perhaps in a martini glass with a light lemony swirl under it. The canteloupe part was awful, a distracting flavor that overpowered the subtle basil ice cream, which was actually quite good. Our entrees arrived. There were a couple of ribeyes, a couple of lamp chops, a couple of lobsters, a couple osso buco, and a couple of pasta dishes ordered. Overall, the lamb and osso buco seemed to be the best choices. A birthday cake was served with coffee, and gifts were opened. It was a very nice evening, and Connie was happy to be surrounded by family and friends!

We walked back to Caesars for a last gambling fix, and were packed and in bed by midnight. The weekend went by quickly, but was a nice combination of shopping, relaxing, gambling, family time, with highlights of the Alley Cats, Jay Leno, and Connie's birthday dinner!

Monday was a long, hard day, as we woke at 5:00 a.m., loaded the car, checked out of Caesar's at 6:10, and I dropped Brad off at the Las Vegas airport at 6:30. I then drove straight to work (one Starbucks/bathroom stop), and did supervision for a few hours, before my quick afternoon nap!

Saturday morning, I woke up at 7 to an almost eerie foggy winter scene. My guess is that it was somewhere in the 30's. BRRRR. Good things we had that lovely fireplace in our room, and I brought my flannel jammies!

I had coffee with Shannon who was already up organizing breakfast. Soon Marcia and Colleen appeared, and I braved the elements and went out for a smoke (with my jacket on over my pajamas). In a neighboring Oak tree, at least a dozen vultures gathered! We did NOT share our breakfast goodies!

Soon, everyone in the house was up and moving. Many from the close-by motels joined us for breakfast. I met Cheryl, and Kathi and Rob. Shannon did an amazing job of planning and shopping for breakfast foods! There were seven kinds of cereal, granola, fruits, cakes, breads, bagels, muffins, croissants, jams, yogurt, cheeses, juices, and MANY pots of coffee or tea!

Shannon signed three copies of the new "Chow Venice" for me.

At 10:30, I decided to skip the first winery, White Horse, and I drove over the hill to charming Cambria. When I left Paso Robles. it was 40 degrees and the fog was just starting to lift. 15 minutes later, over the hill near the ocean, it was 61 and sunny.
I walked through the little shops in Cambria, and had a lovely latte sitting in the sun.
I bought two birthday gifts for friends, some hand-made glass beads to make a necklace, a Valentine's pin for myself, and several funny cards.

I met the ST group at the second winery, Casoro Vineyards. Most of the crowd was there, and I was happy to see Chris and Frank, Wendy and Rob, and delighted to meet Krista and Steve.

There are tons of winery photos on Slow Photos, so for the sake on blogspace, take a look here: http://www.slowphotos.com/photo/showgallery.php?cat=4052

We continued on the wine tour to Eberle Winery, where a private tasting had been set up for us on the lawn. It was sunny and warm enough to remove my jacket! After the winery, Brad and I stopped in downtown Paso with a successful purchase at their funky bead shop! I will be back there next year!

Next blog will be SLOW BOWL Part III: Saturday Night!

After the wineries, and shopping, we had a little downtime, and Brad took a quick nap, while I read and freshened up. Soon friends gathered at the cottage, and appetizers appeared as the chefs worked their magic. There was obviously no shortage of vino!

We enjoyed Marian's cheeses, and Colleen's yummy pastry-wrapped brie with cranberries and pecans (FOUR batches).

We salivated while watching Sharon create her creamy mushroom cups.

Nancy arrived with her upbeat sister, JoAnn, and her delicious apple-gorgonzola salad. They poured over my scrapbooks of Italy.

Brad and I were able to catch up with Kathy (AnnieK) about the past six years. She was there the night we met, and we hadn't seen her since our wedding.
David was busy filling the most gigantic salad bowl in the world with Caesar salad.

Wendy had gallons of corn chowder on the stove, next to Kathy's delicious chicken cacciatore and creamy polenta with fontina.

My crab lasagnas were in the oven, with Dave's eggplant parm right behind. It was a feast Slow Travel style: plenty of food and wine with GREAT company; a true celebration!

How we managed to eat more after that feast is truely amazing, but the desserts were plentyful! Krista made both an olive oil citrus cake, and a Tiger Bundt cake that were delicious, and Marcia's lemon curd cheesecake is also a keeper. There were cookies and chocolates all over the house!

Coming soon...later in the evening, Sunday morning, and some final thoughts!

COMMONALITY: Travel, appreciation of good food and wine!

COMMUNITY: Old and new friends sharing.

FRIENDSHIP:

LAUGHTER:

CELEBRATION:

These photos say it all. What a wonderful group of generous, helpful, kind, and interesting people! Brad and I managed to be the last ones up two nights in a row.

Sunday morning, when I came upstairs for coffee, Shannon and Marta had a full set of "bag lunches" ready for all of us to take for our drives home. Chris arrived with dozens of delicious homemade cinnamon rolls ready to bake.

FABULOUS WEEKEND! We are all ready to return for SLOWBOWL TWO!

After less than 3 hours of sleep, the alarm went off at the ungodly hour of 3:45 a.m.. We were on our way to the Ontario airport by 5 a.m., and our 7:20 flight to Denver left on time. We had to rush to the next gate at a different terminal, so no time for a coffee, snack, or even a stop in the beautiful "smoking lounge". Remind me to make future connections in Denver whenever there is no snow. Most airport smoking lounges are disgusting, even for a nicotine addict. This one looked like an upscale bar with nice chairs and tables and clear air. It was empty. Healthy Colorado!

We arrived in Charlotte, NC, and I sat with the luggage while Brad picked up our rental car (complete with GPS!). I nursed a Starbucks while we waited for Jan's flight to arrive from Florida. One of the fun things about meeting other Slow Travelers, is you have already developed a relationship on the message board, or through PM, and in our case, Jan and I have been working together for several months on a committee to plan next year's Savannah Gathering. We already felt like "old friends" before we met.
As we circled the airport, we connected by cell phone, and found her at baggage claim. Excited hugs were followed by non-stop conversation in the car for our almost two-hour drive to Hendersonville.

Brad and I checked in to the lovely B&B, Pinebrook Manor. (More on this later.) We explored our new "home" for the next three nights, then went into town in search of dinner.

We cruised the Main Street of Hendersonville (actually called Main Street), and looked at choices for dinner. Melanie had recommended a wood grill/wine bar called "Flight". It looked like just what we were looking for.

There was a very cool mobile of dozens of birds hanging from the ceiling. The restaurant had two dining areas, and we opted for the upstairs, which seemed quieter.

The menu was varied, but featered several wood-smoked meat dishes, and a few seafood options. We had a glass of wine, and chose our entrees. Brad and I both had a grilled flatiron steak, topped with a gorgonzola-horseradish mixture. I t came with crisp mixed veggies and a lovely prosciutto-pea risotto. Jan had grilled trout with the same side dishes.

A second glass of wine and some coffee got me relaxed and excited about the weekend Slow Travel GTG.

Kathy Wood suggested the B&B where we stayed in Hendersonville, NC. There are four comfortable rooms. When we arrived, Melanie, the charming proprietor told us she had upgraded us to the largest suite, as we were the only guests on Thursday night. There would be another couple there over the weekend.

The house's living area was spacious and tastefully decorated. Here is the living room, complete with a massive fireplace, comfortable seating, and a piano.

The dining room held the coffee area, where I could frequently be found before breakfast.

More info on Pinebrook Manor can be found on their website:http://www.pinebrookmanor.com/

Each night at Pinebrook Manor, we were able to choose what time we wanted breakfast (but coffee was available early). We decided we could be showered and caffinated enough for me to make complete sentences by 9 a.m..

Here is the plant-filled breakfast room overlooking the "back yard" and wedding garden.

Our first breakfast was sweet potato pancakes with ginger butter, bacon and fresh mixed berries with yogurt.

Our two other breakfasts were stuffed French toast (with cream cheese and marmelade), and a mushroom, green onion, ham and cheese fritatta with cranberry-orange muffins.

We were upgraded to the largest suite at Pinebrook Manor: The Lord Byron Suite.

The King bed was so high, one of us (not me) had to use the little mahagony steps to get up on it! Behind the screen was a large jacuzzi tub. The bathroom had a very large marble shower, and the fireplace was delightful.

One of the highlights of our weekend was meeting our gracious hosts, the Candlers.
Linda and John welcomed us to their lovely home on grounds of the Brevard Music Center. Linda feels about France, the way I do about Italy. Every room has art, fabrics and treasures from their visits to Provence. The front doors, living room mantle and two huge French doors in the dining room were all shipped from France. This is an amazing home in a beautiful wooded setting with a babbling creek running through the back yard.

One of my FAVORITE things to do is decorate, and to visit beautifully appointed, yet comfortable homes of friends. This one certainly fit the bill as a great home to entertain guests!

To see more photos of this beautiful home, check out:
http://www.slowphotos.com/photo/showphoto.php?photo=36370&cat=4121

I love collections, and appreciate others who have the desire (and space) to show and share theirs. Since I've never been to Provence, I was interested in learning about Linda's beautiful collection of Santon dolls. The faces are made of clay, and each doll is dressed and carries a gift. The tradition is to include the "village people" bringing gifts to the Christ Child with the nativity scene figures. Linda's collection is beautiful.

This French artisit with his painting of Provence was my favorite!

The Brevard GTG was a whole week ago, and there was so much to blog about, and so many photos, that it is time I finally get to the party itself! On Friday night, we met around 5 p.m. for wine at Linda and John's party-ready home. It was fabulous to see "old friends" Kathy, Pauline and Steve, and Jan (now "old friends" since we met yesterday)!

We spent the evening meeting, and getting to know so many new friends! Sandi and Bill were lots of fun, and we think our hubbies look like brothers! I can't wait to spend a week in Italy with Sandi in 2008!

We had a delicious dinner: chicken-spinach lasagna, salad, rolls, and lemon or chocolate desserts. After dinner, the "new" Slowchicks performed, Pauline awarded ST baseball caps, Earline read her poem, Kelly and Riley entertained, and we enjoyed a whole lovely night of connecting with other Slow Travelers!

On Saturday, the whole gang showed up again at Linda and John's for more vino and fun before we went to dinner at the charming Hob Knob restaurant in Brevard.

For everyone's Slow Photos of the weekend, see:
http://www.slowphotos.com/photo/showgallery.php?cat=4120

I left for Scottsdale at 7:30 a.m., and arrived at our Marriott Suites by 11:30 (with one Starbucks stop). After checking in, I hit Nordstrom and bought two skirts and a pair of black sandals. From there I visited favorite shops in the Borgota (a shopping center modeled after an Italian village), Seville Center, and the Marketplace. It was 105 degrees, and by 4, I headed back to my room and cranked down the air conditioning. After ordering a snack and a drink from room service, I joined the Slow Travel Thursday chat, then took a nap. I got a phone call from Brad at 6:15 saying he had missed his flight to Phoenix! (This happened two years ago when we also came to Scottsdale for our birthdays.) He would be on the 7:30 flight, which was running late! So much for our 8:30 dinner reservation. I settled in by the pool with a diet coke and my book (after Googling restaurants under "late night dining"). Brad also did some research, and came up with plan B for dinner. He arrived at 9:50, and we were at "Twisted" by 10:15.

Twisted has been open only three months. We ordered wine, and were brought a complementary pretzel appetizer.

Our appetizers were both great. I had ravioli gnudi in basil olive oil, and Brad had a spicy gazpacho with "Pueblo pesto".

Our entrees both could be categorized as "jazzed up comfort food". Brad had "Pepper, Coriander Crusted Pork Tenderloin" stuffed with goat cheese and cranberries, with carmalized sweet garlic green apples and pomegranate red wine reduction.

I had "Rocky Mountain Range Meatloaf". At the bottom of the stack was a thick gorgonzola stuffed crostini, served open face with a large serving of meatloaf of organic buffalo, lamb, and wild boar; with Serrano bacon and Creole Sauce.

Brad cleaned his dessert plate of a Triple Layer Ancho chili chocolate cake with chipolte chocolate mousse and dark chocolate ganache. I had one of his berries and coffee! It was after midnight, and I was in a food coma!

Even with the delay, Brad had a very nice birthday!

"Tween Day" is May 11. It is the day BETWEEN Brad's birthday and my birthday. I have ALWAYS shared my birthday. I was born on my father's 65th birthday, and it falls close to Mother's Day, so as I child, the three of us celebrated all three events. There was usually a party/family dinner on the closest Saturday, then Mom was taken out for Mother's Day. Brad and I enjoy celebrating our birthdays (usually out of town for the weekend) together, and dragging out the festivities for all three days! We have had birthday celebrations in Laguna Beach, Las Vegas, and Scottsdale. Next year will be Brad's BIG __(the one after 59). He has chosen ROME for the destination! Oh darn!

When I wake up on my birthday, I feel like a little kid on Christmas morning. I also feel like the old TV show, "Queen for a Day"! Brad gives me cards throughout the day, starting the moment I open my eyes! 364 days a year, I am the first one up. On my birthday, Brad gets up to have that first sip of coffee with me.

After a latte, we drove out to the Boulders Resort, about 25 miles outside of Scottsdale.
http://theboulders.com/?src=ppc_google_brand&s_kwcid=the%20boulders|1041093134

Our first stop was El Pedregal, the shopping and dining complex near the resort.
http://www.elpedregal.com/

Brad bought one of my birthday gifts in a nice shop there (details later).
The buildings, and casitas at The Boulders blend in with the rock formations and desert landscape. I would imagine it beautiful at sunset. After walking around the resort, we visited the Four Seasons Resort, just down the road. We had a good lunch in their dining room.

The Arizona desert is beautiful, especially with the cactus in bloom, and the surrounding mountains. It is very different than the Palm Springs/Palm Desert area where we live. Our area is much more of an oasis with palm trees and tropical flowers everywhere, and more agriculture (dates, citrus, and even grapes). I think it is even drier. Since we are just two hours from the ocean, we get a LITTLE humidity. In Arizona, 105 felt much hotter than it does at home!

It was definitely time for gelato and a nap!

I am convinced NO ONE packs like I do for a trip to Europe! I continually read packing threads on Slow Talk, and am AMAZED at how little people bring for a three week trip. Let me start by saying we always have a big rental car, we don't take trains, as Brad LOVES driving in Italy, and I have no trouble lifing or managing my luggage! Brad is also a wonderful "Schleppopotomus". He is always entertained and challenged by getting everything in the rental car trunk the first time he must pack it.

I always pack ON PAPER first, not in my closet. I type a full page of everything I will bring, then add accessories, purses, shoes, shawls, and misc. items like books, maps, camera, chargers, adapters, Italy cell phone, etc. When I am done with my list, I check off each item as I pack it.

Our Italy days go something like this:
We get up early (6:30-7ish). I wash my face, run a brush through my hair, and jump into capris and a top. Palma goes outside to caffinate and smoke. Breakfast. Brush teeth. Out the door by 9ish. Hang out in a hilltown, or city, exploring our surroundings, shopping, sightseeing, stopping for breaks in caffes. 1p.m.ish: Lunch. Unless we are on a daytrip, we return to our room for a nap from 3-5ish. THEN I shower, wash hair, put on some make-up (low maintence 15-20 min. max for the whole routine!) and dress nicely for dinner (usually a skirt or dressier top, or dress).

If we are on a daytrip, where we won't return until after dinner (three times this trip), then I shower in the morning and wear something like a skirt or sundress for the day.

This year's pack list (Which is the LEAST I have EVER brought) consists of :
7 pair capris/crop pants (3 black, 3 white, one black/white)
1 pair long linen pants
4 skirts
3 dresses
3 purses/one evening bag
3 pair shoes plus what I wear on plane (black, white, dressy black, gold)
3 very lightweight summer cardigans/jackets (black, white, an one matching skirts)
21 daytime tops
5 dressier tops
4 shawls
2 nightgowns/light robe
bathing suit/cover-up
22 pair of underwear (throw one away each day) more room for shopping
3 bras
14 selected pieces of "fun" jewelry (all made by me)
Trader Joe's insulated bag (for wine, cheese, cold cuts)
Slow Travel tote bag
3 books to read/journal (Brad brings 3, and we trade)
Cosmetic case (size of a zip-lock bag)
cigarettes (Cartons fit in side zipper. Can't buy Virginia Slims in Italy.)
Brad packs laptop, ipod, camera, converters, chargers, Italian cell phone

Yes, this ALL FITS in my Briggs and Riley 28 inch roller bag, and is around 48 lbs.
In my small carry-on bag, I bring my jewelry, my pillow, and a book for the plane. My purse with passports/tickets/journal fits in there too.

So, it all fit, but then I take a few things out of the BIG bag, and put them in my 22" roller bag (which attaches with a strap, and they roll together). In here goes a few gifts for people I will see in Italy. The point is, I will have the 22" bag virtually EMPTY to fill with whatever I buy in Italy. DUH!

Why would I dress any differently than I do at home? I also don't do laundry on vacation (may send bras or nightgown to hotel laundry). Brad has laundry/dry cleaning done half-way through a trip, and wears everything twice. He is MUCH fussier than I am about packing.

I did my "fake pack" last weekend. (Must make sure everything fit in my bag, and stayed under weight limits.) All my clothes are ready, and I won't wear them before I go (OK, I might have to borrow one of the pair of white capris...)

Here is what I DON'T bring:
umbrella (don't ever use one at home either...my hair will dry...)
closed-toe shoes (only worn in winter)
Meds/first aid items consist of my once-a- week calcium pill, a few bandaids, a tube of neosporin and some Advil. (That's all I have at home too!)
Guide books. I've already done my homework. I have confirmations, maps, and ST restaurant lists in a folder.

Now I must wait 28 days to go!

I can't sleep. It is 1:36 a.m., and three weeks from tonight, we will be leaving for the airport (at 4 a.m.) for this summer's trip to Italy!

June 28: ONT-ATL-FCO

June 29: Arrive in Rome at 8:30 a.m., drive to Firenze. Dinner at Cibreo.

June 30: Mercato, San Lorenzo, lunch and "walking tour" with Ida and Bill.
Celebrate Ida's birthday with lunch at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori, and
dinner at Buca Lapi.

July 1: Florence: I Latini (maybe a visit with Jane, Ken and Casey)

July 2: Lunch with Gloria in Pisa, afternoon in Fiesole, drink at Hotel San Michele
Dinner in Florence at Osteria Chingale Bianco

July 3: Shopping stop in San Gimignano on our way to Montalcino
Dinner at Grappolo Blu

July 4: Mt. Oliveto, Bagni Vignoni, evening in Montalcino

July 5: Meet Ida and Bill in Montalcino. Market Day
Lunch at Latte di Luna in Pienza
Afternoon at Amorosa (in the enoteca), explore Montisi
Dinner at Da Roberto in Montisi

July 6: Montalcino in morning, Banfi winery in afternoon.
Dinner at Poggio Antico

July 7-13: Drive to Umbria: Le Case Gialle
Umbria Jazz Festival
visit Assisi, Montefalco, Todi, Bevagna, Spello
lunch with Judith

July 14-16: Cortona
Visit with Alessandra & family, Tania & Keith

July 17: drive to Hotel Villa Le Barone in Panzano

July 18: back to Assisi for Slow Travel GTG!!!

July 19-20: Chianti
dinner with Jane, Ken and Casey

July 21: FCO-ATL-ONT

I took this photo of a shop sign last fall in Bologna, not because I liked the store (mostly junky teen jewelry), but because I love the WORD, and the concept of accessorizing. I have gone through many "phases" of hobbies in my life, and always seem to need some kind of creative outlet. Besides cooking, a constant interest and way to create something, I have had my share of hobbies and crafts that seem to be related to this theme: At one time I had 14 dollhouses or miniature room boxes. I enjoyed decorating each scene, almost as much as decorating my "real house". I have gone through painting clothing and silk scarves, stained glass, and scrapbooking is still a favorite form of accessorizing pages of photos.

I am currently in my JEWELRY PHASE. I used to buy both costume and semiprecious stone jewelry to complement special outfits. Shoes and purses to go along with the deal were (and are still) fun too! For the past year, I have bought more beads/stones, and made many of my own necklaces, bracelets and earrings. I obviously have too much time on my hands! Making SOMETHING is relaxing, fun, and allows me to experiment with color, texture, and ACCESSORIZING!

So the clothing has been packed for two weeks, and we still have two weeks to go before the Italy trip. (The pants and capris are waiting on hangers in the guest room). As I added accessories (jewelry, shawls, and purses) to the basic wardrobe of white or black pants, capris and skirts, and a couple of dresses, I took a few photos to illustrate how I add accessories to the basics. For the next week or so, I will blog about my "Palmabella Jewelry", and how to incorporate it into my Italy wardrobe.

Brad bought me these luscious seafoam green faceted beads at the Jem Faire in Costa Mesa in December. They were in my Christmas stocking.

In January, after completing the necklace, and having just enough beads left for a matching bracelet, I found this shawl in Las Vegas. They easily dress up my white eyelet skirt with a white top or tank! (They are a little more flattering on my neck than on my white guestroom duvet cover!)

Stay tuned for much more!

I like to find different ways to use my accessories (I have a Christmas stocking that I use as a holiday purse), when I am not wearing them. This Italian shawl was being used as a runner on my dining room table, until I snatched it up and added it to my suitcase.

It works with this green stretch top, and EITHER the yellow glass beads, OR the dressier green necklace. Those stones remind me of juicy green grapes! (Keep picturing the white cotton skirt, white linen pants, or white capris on the bottom half.)

I have been kicking myself for months for not buying more clasps in Italy last year. I found a FABULOUS bead shop in Bologna, where the clasps cost me 3-6 Euro. Here they average about $30 each on up! I only bought a dozen. What was I thinking? They do NOT have a website, but I am practicing my Italian, and hope to be able to order some by phone!

This is a "daytime" fun necklace. I call it my "Candy Necklace". (Everything seems to go back to food with me!) I bought these African beads in a shop in Brevard, NC, when we attended the Slow Travel GTG. Here they are with a yellow Chico's tank, but they go with almost any of my solid color tops and black or white capris.

Murano glass! On our last trip to Venice in 2003, I did NOT make my own jewelry. We bought art glass and added to our crystal glasses. Why was I not thinking BUY BEADS!? I bought a tiny handful of loose glass beads, just because I knew that someday I would find something to do with them. Oh well, I now have yet ANOTHER reason to go back!

I found these coral and gold Murano beads at a bead show in Ontario, and couldn't resist, as coral is one of my favorite summer colors.

That white skirt or linen pants will get a new punch with coral top, beads, shawl and purse. (I'm leaving the coral sandals at home, as this is Palma's attempt at "packing light"!)

Coral looks GREAT against a tan too!

For a cool daytime look, I have a coral t-shirt top with white capris (really cropped pants), a white eyelet "jeans jacket", and beads that look like eyelet. This necklace works with ANY color of my stack of solid color tops: coral, yellow, green, red, aqua, magenta, or black!

I love my VERY comfy Chico's chocolate brown "Travelers" dress. It has an empire waist, and capped sleeves. By itself...boring. I can change the look with two of my most recent necklaces.

Here are the citrine beads I bought in L.A., before meeting southern California Slow Travel friends at Mozza for pizza in March. I strung them with the pendant Brad bought me at the Boulders resort in Scottsdale on our birthday weekend. Yesterday's post made me think I associate a lot of my jewelry with food, but today I realize I associate some pieces with trips!

Let's add an inexpensive Italian market shawl.

This is one of my favorites! There are 6 strands of champagne and bronze freshwater keshi pearls. As luck would have it, I bought the perfect clasp for it in Bologna, figuring someday I'd find a use for a brown clasp!

How about with a bronze San Gimignano shawl, and a beaded purse? At home I would wear beaded bronze sandals, but in Italy I will make due (on those cobblestones) with my gold leather espadrilles!

I love red! I mixed this Murano glass focal bead with red beaded rounds that Brad calls "raspberries", and small white seed beads. Guess I'm not the ONLY one who thinks of jewelry in terms of food.

These what I refer to as "pregnant tops" are in. After a couple weeks of gelato and Italian food, I'll be ready for something loose, comfy and cool!

Sandi, here is a closeup of one of the Bologna clasps:

This trip I have a lot of black and white clothes that mix and match. This is a lampwork bead and black jet bead necklace.

Here it is with a black and white skirt, shoes, and purse!

I made this ceramic bead necklace specifically for these Chico's black & white striped capris, although I have worn it with other outfits.

Tomorrow more black and white!

In 2005, I bought a piece of designer gold jewelry in Lucca. Orlando Orlandini is an award winner goldsmith with a workshop in Panzano. I had priced his work in a the U.S., and knew I was getting a good price in Italy.

Here is his website:http://www.orlandoorlandini.it/

The piece I bought (signed and numbered and in a BEAUTIFUL BOX) is this gold "lace heart" with a diamond. To me, it symbolizes that my heart is in Italy.

Gold Heart Pendant

The problem I have had, for two years, is that the heart came on a black silk cord. Every time I wear it, in a few minutes, the heart slides, and the clasp ends up in the front! I stopped wearing it! Last week, I decided to "mess with it", and re-use the heart as a centerpiece for some gorgeous black crystals I bought in Scottsdale. Now I will wear my heart again!

Let's try it with a sleeveless white "Traveler's" top, cutwork skirt and cardigan jacket:
I think this evening bag makes the gold beads pop (and it packs flat)!

Eleven days from today, we will be here:

Yesterday, Brad sent me these flowers. When I asked him why, he said, "You should have flowers while you are waiting to go to Italy!"

We got a few last minute (actually, we are incredibly early) trip things done this weekend. We downloaded Season 6 of 24 to watch during our week long vacation renatl in Umbria. We made copies of our passports and credit cards. We bought snacks, and did some housecleaning.

Sandi suggested I look for sunflower beads. Ask and you shall receive:

Anyone with a blog LOVES getting comments from friends and readers! So THANKS to all who read and post a comment!

I thought I'd respond to a few recent comments!

Jerry said:
"Palma - if you started selling your jewelery you would be able to take three more trips to Italy each year! Your work is wonderful."

In reality, if I hadn't bought beads this year, I could have taken another trip to Italy!
I LOVE Jerry's blog for both his recipes and his rants! If we lived closer, I would be one size larger!

Sandi said:
"I love your beads! I am on a bracelet fix~ I have braclets to match everything. "

I love bracelets too, and was on a bracelet kick last year. I have made LOTS of bracelets for gifts, but I often wear my stash of 10Euro ones from San Gimignano, that I couldn't duplicate for twice the price and lots of my time! Sandi's blog is another I read regularily for her yummy recipes. I am waiting for some jewelry photos!

Judith said:
"If I see you wearing this outfit in Italy, be warned. I am stripping it right off you and stealing it."

I will NOT be wearing this when I meet Judith! Me in my underwear is a blog we can all do without. My initial reaction is anything I wore would be SEVERAL sizes too big for Judith, but then I remembered that she sews, and has all those contacts that do tailoring! Judith, here is the cutwork skirt and that goes with that jacket:

I also love Judith's blog! Italian recipes, fashion, and stories that make one THINK!

Judith, here is a blurry photo of the cutwork top with another crystal necklace:

For those of you bored with the jewelry, just a couple more days! I'll get back to some food, and next week...ITALY!

One more week to go! Though my clothes have been packed for WEEKS (except the capris/pants hanging by my suitcase), there are still a FEW things to do before Italy!

I began cleaning my house thoroughly for my wonderful housesitter/dogsitter, Andrea.

Yesterday I got my haircut, Brad gets trimmed on Saturday.

I have printed out all my lists, restaurants, confirmations, and Slow Travel stuff and they are in a in a folder in Brad's carry-on. So are the maps. (I found the maps last night at 1 a.m. when I couldn't sleep.)

The jewelry weighed in at 8 pounds. Now, this may seem like a lot of weight, but all that is in my carry-on is the jewelry, a book and snacks for the plane, and my pillow that smushes down to nothing. About 12 lbs. total. I have been carrying lots more than that around on my hips for years!

I put all necessary phone numbers, Italian cell numbers and contacts in Italy into my journal. That stays in my purse.

I made a green necklace out of freshwater pearls I've had for a year.

Brad renewed his International Driver's License.

I checked our passports and put them in my travel purse. They don't expire until 2011. I am SURE!

I got a spare pair of sunglasses. At home I only wear them on my raft in the pool, or when I drive with my convertible top down. I always take sunglasses on trips.
They match my sundress, and countless other black and white clothes.

Brad's new toy, a Garmin Nuvi 670 GPS (with Europe maps) arrived yesterday. Tonight he can unpack it and play with it.

Next week, I have clients, get my nails done, and call the credit card companies.

I think I'll go re-check my flights.

I have a couple more photos of jewelry I made for the trip. Here are four-strands of brightly colored crystals twisted together:

This outfit (I bought the shirt/jacket in Asheville, N.C.) is what I had in mind:

If I eat my way through Italy, I may have to wear a lot of those elastic waist skirts! If that is the case, I can at least dress it up with this bag:

And while we're accessorizing the white, how about this bracelet and ring from my last trip to Capri? YES, I'd like to find some beads like these to make a necklace!!!