travelin' through our life

Dressed up in the City of Lights

2011-11-13T22:56:00.003+01:00

For some time now I have been taking a backseat to blogging. At first it was due to some technical difficulties (ie. phone being stolen, hard drive crashing, ect...) but now I am just being lazy I guess!
The last week of OCtober Giovanni had a big International participants meeting up in Como for EXPO and I decided since he was going to be gone most of the week to head to Paris to visit with our friends! We had a GREAT time! Giovanni joined us for a long weekend and we packed in much fun along with lounge time! Here are a few photos of Halloween. I will post more about the rest of the trip at a later time.

We celebrated Halloween by attending the American Library in Paris activities, including Charlie Brown's Halloween and trick' o treating through out the library.
As you can see we had 2 insects! A Yellow Butteryfly and a Spider that LOVES to crawl!

A view from a new window

2011-11-08T22:31:00.001+01:00

Here is the view from Giovanni's new office window, Milans' first skyscraper at 30 floors (he is on the 30th floor nicknamed the celestial floor). Situated in front of the central station all of Milan can be seen from here, on a nice day even the alps!

Standing up

2011-10-31T20:41:00.001+01:00

Isaac started standing on his own! So fun to see him discover new things each day!

City of lights

2011-10-29T20:21:00.001+02:00

Bathing handsome

2011-10-10T23:11:00.001+02:00

Hanging out beside an ice freezing pool in Siena last week!

Where would we go?

2011-09-20T01:02:00.000+02:00

Monday night during our family time we were talking about Elder Dieter F Uctdorf, one of our church leaders who grew up in Europe in the after effects of WW2. We were talking about how they had to leave their home. I asked Lottie
What we would do if we had to leave our home, her reply was so simple: "we go to Utah mom!" we laughed, but she was serious! How I love how she solves problems!

Playground bliss

2011-09-14T15:48:00.000+02:00

My daddy

2011-09-12T21:00:00.000+02:00

Chars drew a picture of her daddy tonight during family home evening time, I love how she drew him! See the eyebrows and the teeth ( lines under the mouth)!

Tummy time

2011-08-30T00:59:00.001+02:00

Big sis Chars is often trying to be involved with little bro Isaac, here no one is getting squished!

First foods

2011-08-20T20:10:00.001+02:00

Isaac has been eagerly awaiting to try some new things, today was that day!!!! Here he is thoroughly enjoying a banana!! Welcome to new tastes little one!

Beach bum

2011-08-14T16:28:00.000+02:00

Present

2011-08-14T16:27:00.000+02:00

I have been absent from blogging world for a while, the past few weeks we have been on vacation in Sicily enjoying family, sun, yummy food and our time together! Just look how happy we are!

Sickies

2011-07-03T20:32:00.001+02:00

Poor Charlotte has been fighting a fever since Friday. She has no other symptoms, but her fever keeps spiking into triple digits. Yesterday we ran a few errands when she was feeling a little better, but wanted to take along brother Isaac's blankie (I was calling her Linus). Hopefully by tomorrow she is better.
P.S. What do think of Gio's new haircut?

Model in the making

2011-06-29T15:22:00.001+02:00

Yesterday our little Charlotte modeled in a fashion show held at her friend's preschool. She was darling!
I was only backstage so I did not get proper photos of her coming down the runway, but I do have a few of her running around behind the scenes (too bad my computer died and it may be a while until I can get them on here)!
I really wish I had a video of Gio teaching her how to "strut", yes strut ostrich style while blowing kisses- I was a bit disappointed she did not do it down runway, maybe next time!
Here's to a lovely little Charlotte!

America is blessed!

2011-06-25T23:36:00.002+02:00

Look who is one of the newest citizens!!! Ok, really until we get Isaac's paper work back will everything be "official" but just look at that smile! He loves that he now can claim his American heritage! We love this little guy!

Thirsty??

2011-06-16T23:31:00.001+02:00

This is the drinking fountain near one of our favorite parks, Char's loves trying to get a drink between running around. She was lucky to have daddy there this day to help!

the past 2 weekends

2011-06-15T22:45:00.007+02:00

I have been holding out you! Rude of me right? We have been doing a tiny bit of traveling around here and I have not shared any of it with you. Don't hold it against me, I have been lazy and not in the "sharing mood".Please understand, I am sure most all of us go through that from time to time!
I came to my good senses and figured who ever you are that checks up on us here probably wants to see what happenings are going on around here and how the kiddies are growing. I hope not to disappoint!
This last weekend we were in Como to see our friends Ilaria & Alessandro get married! The ceremony was held in a beautiful church decorated with white flowers and candles, perfect! The reception was in a villa off of Lake Como just past Belliago. The kids were a bit under the weather and spent most of the time sleeping... so don't mind the "glazed eye" look they are givin!

(first 3 images were taken by our friend Marco, he has a MUCH better camera then I do, Sorry! this is the biggest I could get them!)

The weekend before that we went to Torino! It was a QUICK trip, but fun to be back! Giovanni and I met 6 years ago Sunday, June 5th, 2005 in Torino & we just happened to be there again on SUnday, June 5th, 2011!!!
Here are a few highlights of that little get away! (P.S.) our friend Cary came with us) After a quick trip to Porto Palazzo (Europe's largest open air market) buying plump, juicy cherries and some yummy asparagus for a STEAL we then walked around the center.
One place I had always heard about but had never visited in my many trips to Torino was a little cafe called La Biscern. Supposedly they have some phenomenal hot chocolate (among some other drinks of which we did not try due to the alcoholic ingredients). This place is truly storic!When we first walked into the square where it is located we saw a few tables outside with people enjoying their drinks... and a line of about 10 people waiting to sit! It was quite tiny inside, maybe 10 little tables crammed with chairs around them green walls lined with silver cups and teapots. Glass jars filled with candy and yummy gianduia chocolates(a hazelnut chocolate, think nutella flavor)! Most people popping in to try a glass of something and leaving again quickly. We were among this group. You can see Charlotte enjoyed it!

There are more adventure to share, but I am too tired right now... until hummm, i dont know, soon!

3 month skill

2011-06-07T20:41:00.000+02:00

Blowing bubbles is what my 3 month old does best!

Butt Heads!

2011-05-31T20:33:00.003+02:00

Yesterday Charlotte picked up a crayon told me it was blue and then continued to put it between her fingers as if she had a cigarette! She laughed and blew out a mouth full of air! Only 2 years old and already she thinks that it's cool to smoke! Horrible! I know that living in Italy there are many people who smoke, but I guess I was a bit native to the influence on my little ones! A few hours after this incident we were at the park and I was following Char's around with Isaac in the stroller. I watch a woman light up right next to me! No wonder, kids really absorb everything! They observe and try to do things the see us do! I better watch my actions because I know that what I say and do will be mimicked by little Lottie!

Italian Bureaucracy

2011-05-27T21:21:00.003+02:00

While reading Rick Steve's blog on his website today I laughed out loud about his previous entries on Italian bureaucracy! Although I don't request for film permits or anything of the sort that he is doing... it seems that EVERYONE in Italy in most any sector works like this! If you want to know one of the reasons I tell people I have a "LOve/Hate relationship with this country I live in go and read this! I usually have to remind others that I am not on vacation, I live here. I do agree that Italy is beautiful and has much to offer anyone to come and explore her borders but my life is not like the movies (oh how I wish it were!)! Go and read the link below for an idea of what I am talking about!
Italian Bureaucracy

2011-05-24T13:38:00.005+02:00

I realized that well over one month ago was the last time I posted. I am on blogger nearly everyday... just felt a bit overwhelmed by the business of everyday and not having much motivation to post anything. Gio has asked me a few times if I have updated the blog and I reminded him that he also has access if he feels so inclined to jot a few things down. Maybe in the future he will become more of a regular!
Isaac is growing, growing, growing! He has the sweetest smile! No matter what is going on or how tired I am when he smiles the whole world is at peace!

Charlotte is potty training, and doing pretty good at it. She loves to add a sticker to her chart every time she makes it to the potty!
The days come and go and most days my house looks worse when I lay down then it did when I got up. I guess this is part of being a Mom. The heat is killing any motivation that I had to clean and organize, but we did retrieve our two fans that were being stored at the neighbors house, Thank goodness we have some relief now! I honestly don't know how I will ever survive the summer here in Milan! It is only May and I can barely handle the hot sticky weather!

In season

2011-04-12T13:50:00.006+02:00

Here in Milan the weather has been high 70's- 80's, beautiful sun has been kissing us and a light cool breeze brushing our skin. Spring is in the air and life is all around!
Each time I go into a store or walk through a market there are ample choices of strawberries and artichokes all for such a great price I have a HARD time passing them up! I just run into one problem: how to prepare them each time??
Sure, I loved a steamed artichoke with garlic butter, I love to stuff them and cut them up and cook them in pasta and risotto... but sometimes you need some one like Martha to give you a few variations.
Here is a really YUMMY risotto that I have made twice in the past week!
Ingredients
(photo via Martha Stewart, I am a bit too busy to remember to take pictures)
2 lemons
10 baby artichokes
6 cups homemade chicken stock or 3 cups low-sodium store-bought chicken stock mixed with 3 cups water
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 garlic clove, minced
Coarse salt
2 cups short-grain Italian rice, such as Arborio, Carnaroli, or Vialone Nano
1 cup dry white wine
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme, plus sprigs for garnish
Freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup mascarpone (*I used cream cheese and it was heavenly)

Directions

Remove 3 teaspoons grated zest from 1 lemon; halve the lemon, and squeeze out 1 tablespoon juice. Set zest and juice aside. Cut remaining lemon in half, and squeeze into a medium bowl of cold water; add all rinds to water.

Prepare the artichokes: Working with 1 artichoke at a time, snap off tough outer leaves until pale-green leaves are exposed. Cut off top third. Using a paring knife, peel dark-green layer from base and stem; trim stem. Quarter artichoke lengthwise. Transfer to lemon water. (*I cut up the artichokes into small bite size pieces)

Bring stock and bay leaf to a simmer in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat; reduce heat to low.

Melt butter with oil in a large saute pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is slightly softened, about 6 minutes. Drain artichokes, and add to pan. Cook, stirring often, until artichokes are just tender, about 12 minutes. Add rice, and stir until coated, about 1 minute. Pour in wine, and cook, stirring, until wine has almost evaporated, about 3 minutes.

Add enough hot stock (about 1 cup) to just cover rice. Cook, stirring, until stock is almost absorbed. Continue adding stock, 3/4 cup at a time, waiting for each addition to be absorbed before adding the next; cook, stirring, until rice is tender but still slightly firm in the center, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from heat, and discard bay leaf.

Stir in chopped thyme; season with salt and pepper. Add mascarpone (or creamcheese), 2 teaspoons lemon zest, and the lemon juice; stir until mascarpone is melted and rice is moist and creamy. Serve immediately, garnished with thyme sprigs and remaining teaspoon lemon zest.

Moving onto the strawberries!!!
I love the simplicity of hulled and sliced strawberries with a bit of sugar and a few drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice, I occasionally add a bit of fresh cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Sometimes I even drizzle some melted chocolate on top! However, when I saw this recipe I knew it would be a great one to try! I was not disappointed!

(photo via Martha Stewart)
Ingredients

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, plus more for pie plate
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 pound strawberries, hulled and halved

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 10-inch pie plate. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together into a medium bowl.

Put butter and 1 cup sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Reduce speed to medium-low; mix in egg, milk, and vanilla.

Reduce speed to low; gradually mix in flour mixture. Transfer batter to buttered pie plate. Arrange strawberries on top of batter, cut sides down and as close together as possible. Sprinkle remaining 2 tablespoons sugar over berries.

Bake cake 10 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees. Bake until cake is golden brown and firm to the touch, about 1 hour. Let cool in pie plate on a wire rack. Cut into wedges. Cake can be stored at room temperature, loosely covered, up to 2 days.

What have you been enjoying these days??

No more weekends in the fiat

2011-04-11T12:56:00.001+02:00

Bad news, our fiat weekend (name of the car) has died! Funeral arrangements are being made. There are so many problems with the car it would cost more to fix then what it's worth. Not to mention the fact that 2 months ago we put nearly 900euro into it!!!
For the time being we will rely on public transport and our feet. Thank goodness we live in the city and fairly close to almost everything.
Below is a picture of char's next a tiny car we saw on the street just hours before the bad news.

you may have seen me

2011-04-05T13:22:00.004+02:00

Over the weekend our church held conference, this happens two times a year. The living prophet and apostles speak and give counsel during 4 sessions held Saturday and Sunday. There were quite a few talks that I really enjoyed listening to, which I will share with you later. While watching the Sunday morning session there was a talk given by Sister Allred. I was surprised to see a quick video clip that had me in it. I filmed it about 5 years ago and pretty much forgot all about it... until Sunday.
Here is a still of the quick little clip.
Kinda fun to know I have been around the world!

Picture

2011-04-04T21:48:00.001+02:00

Today Charlotte sat next to Isaac and asked me to take her picture, too bad she was not looking at me in any of them!
Isaac is 1 month old now. Time is flying by!
Last week he had another ultrasound to follow up on the cysts. Seems that they are a bit smaller, however we also learned that cysts are not connected to anything, they are just there- floating. This means they also can change form. The surgeon does not want to do anything at this point, for which I am glad. We go in again mid May for another ultrasound and follow up visit. For the time being we are happy that our little man is doing well!

Isaac's Birth story

2011-03-30T13:23:00.005+02:00

Isaac is nearly 1 month old and before anymore days pass I want to write the story of his birth down. For all of you who are curious and also just so I have it down somewhere.
It is normal that during the entire pregnancy to have contractions, that is just what your body does to prepare for REAL labor. 2 weeks before his due date (due March 10, so this was Feb. 25) I started feeling stronger contractions, all day long there were moments when I would need to sit and take a break from whatever I was doing.I thought that I might be slowly starting labor.
I don't remember many braxton hicks or false labor with Charlotte, with her when I started feeling uncomfortable and unable to sleep the contractions progressively got stronger and harder to deal with, but that also took a full day before anything happened and she was born a full 24 hours later (4:20am). During that pregnancy I knew when I went into labor. This time around was VERY different! But because the first is what I had imprinted on my brain I thought that some if not most all of the labor and delivery would go pretty much the same way. BOY was I WRONG!
Okay, back to 2 weeks before the due date.... I had a friend over and we had been working on some crafty projects. She left around 4ish. Char's and I headed out to the diaper factory. While on our way home Gio called me and said he had tickets to a fashion show if I wanted to come to the center and Char's was welcome. I debated going since I had not been feeling at 100%, but then again I had never been to a fashion show. I raced home changed and we ran to the bus to meet Gio. After going out for drinks and appetizers we saw the quick fashion show and headed home(see all the fun we had). I told Gio later that I thought the baby was not going to wait the full 2 weeks!

Fast forward to Wednesday March 2. In the morning Char's and I ran a bunch of errands. Grocery shopping, stopping to buy some paint for a few projects, and on to the fabric store. I was just about done, we were looking at buttons when all of the sudden Char's saw someone coming in the door and took off running right under everyone's legs! I threw all of my stuff at the counter bumping into people as I try to dodge my way out to grab her! There was an older woman already 2 steps ahead of me (not too hard to out run a VERY PREGNANT woman)who got a hold of little Charlotte before I could, thank goodness, and handed her over to me. I was both embarrassed and frightened for what could have happened (the store is on a VERY, VERY busy street. The woman behind the counter was kind and pulled out a stool for me to sit on and catch my breath, I was sweating like a pig by now and someone else brought me a cup of water. The comment was made about having this episode start my labor. I laughed it off. Through out the rest of the day I felt fine. More of those contractions I had been having all week, but nothing unbearable.

The next morning I woke up around 8AM. Showered and changed the bed sheets, started a load of laundry and started feeling contractions a bit stronger, but told Gio to go to work. "If anything happens I will call you" I kept saying to him. "I am sure it will take all day for anything to really happen". I called my friend who was going to take Char's when we needed to go to the hospital, I told her that I was not sure when, but I was sure today was the day, she was already at work and just said to keep her posted. She could meet us at the hospital or come to our house.
About 20 minutes later I changed my mind about Gio leaving me and we called another friend to take Char's, I think we both realized we did not have much time.
I jumped back in the shower sitting on a stool working through contractions (maybe a bit in denial about how active my labor was) . Gio was gathering things around the house (my bag had been packed for a month ready to go), pillows, Char's bag, medical forms, ect... he kept telling me to get dressed so we could get out of the house. I was feeling the contractions REALLY strong now and could barley even find clothes to put on. We all loaded into the elevator and while on our way down I could smell Charlotte with a smelly diaper. I sent Gio out to get the car (as I could not imagine myself in full, active labor crossing the busy street we live on stopping every few min.s for a contraction)as I returned upstairs to get the wipes we forgot. (this was just about 10AM)
By the time I got down stairs I knew that getting to the hospital in time was going to be cutting it close, I was already feeling to push! Lito, our doorman was watching Char's while Gio ran to get the car, I think we scared him the most! While I was having another contraction and holding onto a door handle he kept saying "where is Giovanni"????
Into the car and down the street to drop Char's off, back on our way. contractions getting stronger and closer together, my water breaks in the car and traffic is ridiculous!I feel a little bit of relief, but start crying because Gio starts weaving into oncoming traffic as if we are in a movie, lights are out and there are policemen and women trying to direct traffic, Gio unrolls his window and in a mix of English and Italian yells that I am in active labor. We pull up to the hospital ER and leave the car with everything in it (maybe even the keys, who cared at this point). Gio finds a wheelchair and someone working at the hospital who gets me in front of the elevator that is supposed to take me up to labor and delivery on the 1st floor. While we waited for the LONGEST time for the elevator to arrive I kept having the pushing sensation, finally up to the right floor a nurse came out to see what is going on. She takes one look at me asks if this is my first baby and says she will be back after she is done doing whatever she is doing to check on me (I will never forget the look on her face, "i don't have time for you right now" look).

I got up from the wheelchair and made it into the lobby bathroom telling Gio that the baby was not waiting and he was coming NOW! He called for the nurse again and she came running out with two other nurses. They convinced me to sit back down in the wheelchair and wheeled me into a delivery room where more nurses and doctors came in. They moved me onto a delivery bed and with in minutes (at 10:30am)Isaac was born! What a rush! I was able to hold and cuddle him until Gio cut the cord and they took him for a bath and a few tests.
Gio of course had to go move the car and get my bag. I had some alone time with my new little boy. I looked at him with wonder, awe and much gratitude as I thought about the miracle of life. The little miracles that have occurred during the months that I carried him. Prayers that have been heard and comfort sent when it was needed. What honor it is to be a mother! To share in the creation of another little body and to have the privileged to help the spirits that dwell in those bodies to understand who they are and their full potential! What a glorious responsibility!

(Gio did not have much time to pull out the camera to get pictures, but here are a few shots of Isaac in the early hours of his life and meeting his big sister)!

Enjoying our boy

2011-03-29T23:09:00.001+02:00

Just look at this tender face, we have been enjoying this little guy! He is so mild and sweet! A GREAT baby and a good brother!
My parents left us yesterday to travel up to Germany to visit with some friends before taking a plane back over the atlantic. We miss them a lot already! Look forward to seeing them soon in the future. In the meantime here on the home front I am learning how to keep up house, cook, be a mommy of 2 and a good wifey.... I know one of these days it will all come together! For now I am happy to just stare at this face and be amazed by the goodness of a loving Father in heaven and be thankful for miracles!

Car ride home

2011-03-15T09:37:00.000+01:00

Isaac and I came home last Wednesday night! We were so happy to leave the hospital that I left the blog world to really enjoy this time.
As far as results from isaac's MRI, the surgeon and pediatrician decided that the group of cysts just need to be watched. We have some follow up visits at the end of the month to see if they are growing or getting smaller on their own (which of course is what we hope for).
In the mean time we are enjoying our time with Mimi and papa from Utah and being home!!!

Leaving the room

2011-03-15T09:20:00.001+01:00

View from my window

2011-03-09T12:10:00.001+01:00

Some of you may be wondering if staying nearly a week in the hospital after having a baby is normal in Italy, the answer is NO. If all went well during delivery general rule is to leave after 48 hours, for c-section it's a day or so longer.
Everything went fine with delivery (a story I will soon share) And yet we are still here.

You see back in September there were some questions raised about our little guy due to some blood work results. Since that time I have been followed a by a team of dr.s that found through a level2 ultrasound a possible problem with isaac's intestine. We knew that at birth there would be additional tests done to check out his body for proper function. In the end all nearly checked out fine. He pooped well and was able to start nursing (which he is great at).
So why are we still here??? In a further ultrasound after birth there is a doubt about a cyst. Yesterday Isaac had an MRI and another ultrasound, today we wait for the results and to hear if the doc's think surgery is necessary and when.
It is fairly common in italy to keep the mother with the baby for nursing, ect...

Giovanni,Charlotte & I have been very prayerful these past few months. We have faith and the knowledge that miracles happen. We know the Lord is mindful of us and our needs as well as this specific situation. Whatever the outcome may be we go forward with trust in Him and a firm testimony that through our Savior, Jesus Christ we can be made whole. If it be from physical elements, feelings of helplessness, loneliness or despair. He can HEAL us.
It is with this knowledge that I go forward with hoping for good news today.

The other side of the room

2011-03-08T15:29:00.001+01:00

Here are some photos of my hospital room. As you may note there are a few differences from a state side facility, no t.v. Or phone in the room. Normally I would be sharing a room (I have had 2 different roommates) but I guess things have slowed down the past few days, not that I mind, I prefer to be alone. Sleeping in a room with someone else and their new baby is no picnic!
One of the reasons I choose this hospital over any other was because each room has a private bathroom. Not always the case, in many places there are only a few bathrooms/ floor and you have to share the toilets as well as the showers with everyone. In most of those places a "common" eating room with an assigned hour is normal.
Although not AMAZING in amenities I am comfortable here, but hope to be home very soon! Isn't that how most people feel in any hospital?

Hospital room

2011-03-08T15:16:00.001+01:00

From the door.

From window

2011-03-08T14:31:00.001+01:00

My hospital room.

Hospital breakfast

2011-03-06T21:51:00.000+01:00

Most everyone raves about Italian food and "si" I agree that for the most part, the food is "kiss your fingers and hold them up" wonderful (translation for Italian hand gesture: too fantastic for words good); However, when it comes to breakfast I have always thought there was something missing. Here is an example of what I am given to eat in the morning. A bowl of warm milk, a sugar packet and 3, count them 3 little cookies in a package! I usually have a few hidden items from previous meals (fruit or bread) to help hold me over to the next meal, but what about all of those other hungry hospital patients???

Isaac

2011-03-04T10:37:00.001+01:00

Proud daddy!

2011-03-04T10:35:00.001+01:00

Newest addition

2011-03-04T10:31:00.000+01:00

Isaac Antonio Criscione joined the family march 3rd @ 10:30am. A very quick almost did not make it to the hospital delivery but in the end all went well!!!
Weight: 6.7 lbs 3.60 kg
Length: 20.5 in 49 cm
Healthy in every way!!!!
This is our first new family photo!!!

for your viewing pleasure

2011-02-27T22:25:00.003+01:00

I asked a friend who studied photography here in Italy to come and take a few pictures of us as a family before our next addition. I wanted to capture my GROWING belly and Charlotte as well. These are a few shots I have seen so far. I am happy with how they came out! Looking forward to seeing the rest!
We are getting closer to the "due date", March 10 and counting down to Saturday when my parents arrive!!!

Enjoying Sicily at Christmas time

2011-02-09T14:14:00.002+01:00

I know I am behind on blogging about our time in Sicily over the holidays, but really I am in "nesting" mode and trying to figure out just how we are going to add another little body into our 1 bedroom apartment! However, I wanted to share with you a few pictures from our trip. We had a good time and really enjoyed the warm weather in Cefalu' and Palermo!
More to come about baby preparation..... stay tuned!

Charlotte turns DUE!

2011-02-02T15:55:00.007+01:00

I have wanted to share our Sicily photos and Lottie's 2nd birthday with you all, but time is just running from me and I don't often feel that I can catch up! In any case here are a few from the birthday celebration.
We were actually in Palermo for her bday, Gio was working on a genealogy job most of the day. The little one and I spent a few hours at the park before meeting up with Gio for lunch and then again for dinner. When we were home in Milan a few days later we invited our friend and Lbug's FAVORITE sitter, Amanda, over to help us eat some pizza and cupcakes in her honor!

Italian Genealogy Expert

2011-01-31T14:33:00.002+01:00

(photos of recent research, a church where some research was done, and a family tomb)
As many of you know Giovanni has quite a passion for the past, researching his own as well as helping others to find out about their family roots. From the start of our marriage I suggested that we find a way to create a website for as a way for more people to find out about his services. With the help of some friends we have FINALLY got something fantastic to show the world. If you yourself are would like help or if you know of anyone that may need someone like Gio please check out his site and let us know what you think!
http://www.italianfamilyroots.com/

I forgot...

2011-01-23T21:17:00.003+01:00

I know that months ago when I went public on the web with the news of our little #2 I had mentioned that we were going to be surprised on the birthday of our little one; however, a little while ago Giovanni talked me into opening the envelope that held the answer to the BIG Question! We are happy to share with your the exciting news that we will be welcoming a "little brother" as we are now calling him in about 2 months! (P.S. these images are from just before Christmas)

Christmas highlights

2011-01-13T18:07:00.000+01:00

A few images of our Christmas day before getting on a plane and flying to Sicily.

A new year

2010-12-31T12:38:00.002+01:00

As I think about all that I am leaving behind in 2010 and the possiblities of what awaits in 2011, I am thankful to have the choice to have faith in a greater plan and to reach out to better my communication with my Heavenly Father.
I sincerely hope that you may too! Happy New Year!

orange ricotta cookies

2010-12-30T16:28:00.005+01:00

I spied this recipe the other day and have been craving to make it. Being that we are now in Sicily, land where fresh ricotta and citrus this time of year are in abundance I thought it the perfect time to put this orange ricotta cookie recipe to the test!
Let me tell you, they did not fail!!! These cake like cookies are the perfect mixture of orange, soft and delicate, dark chocolate to top it all off! YUMMY! If you like those chocolate oranges that often fill our stockings at Christmas time, you will LOVE these cookies!

(picture of Ragusa Ibla, the older part of the city)
We are going to be hanging out with our Sicilian family in Ragusa for another week or so before heading to the other side of the island, Palermo. I will have pictures and stories to post later, but as for now... find some time for the above mentioned cookies!

PS did you see this story???

Christmas by kids

2010-12-21T12:51:00.000+01:00

Five

2010-12-16T16:47:00.003+01:00

"Oh, the comfort-the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person. Having neither to weigh thoughts, Nor measure words--but pouring them All right out--just as they are--Chaff and grain together--Certain that a faithful hand will Take and sift them--Keep what is worth keeping--And with the breath of kindness Blow the rest away."
-Dinah Maria Mulock Craik (saw this on Speaking Spiritually Blog yesterday)

Gingerbread "houfe"

2010-12-15T11:37:00.003+01:00

This year our little Lottie bug was much more involoved in the gingerbread house building night! Last year the kits that we bought were full of broken pieces that were difficult and time consuming to frost-glue together before we could build them, and since the candy we were using was already a year old (I bought too much last year) I did not want to be bothered with whipping up royal icing from scratch again this time around. So, we took the shortcut and hot glued everything together! It worked fast and perfect! You can see that Charlotte was very pleased with her HOUFE!
Do you have this tradition?? If you want to pick up a cheap kit we found ours at IKEA.

Once there was a snowman

2010-11-30T23:41:00.002+01:00

About a week ago a snow storm rolled in. Charlotte and I decided to take advantage of the white stuff and build a snowman or "No-man" as she says it. Since we did not have snow pants for her we made due with a white garbage bag and tape! Worked great! As you can see we also had a problem with gloves to fit. In the end we enjoyed playing in the snow!

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T22:49:00.000+01:00

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

Happy Halloween 2010!

2010-10-31T23:27:00.000+01:00

Italy is not known for the Halloween Celebrations, any "festa" to do with a Saint- now that Italy does... so when a chance to dress up for Halloween came we took it! As last year we were invited to Celebrate a 3year old birthday party, costume style! Charlotte was Strawberry Shortcake (the french version.. since there she is called "Charlotte aux fraises") I made her costume with some felt scraps and an IKEA blanket. I was a black cat that swallowed a fish, you know since I am 5 months pregnant and showing I thought the "Little" should have a costume too! Giovanni also pointed out that since the baby will be coming in March it was rather fitting that a fish be on my belly for the zodiac sign Pisces! Giovanni was a fisherman because it went well with my costume and also for the reason that this summer at the lake he fell in love with fishing thanks to my nephew! We had a great time... but are happy to be going to bed. We ate too many browines, cupcakes and salty treats! Hope you all had a fun weekend!

Rome Temple Groundbreaking

2010-10-25T16:57:00.004+02:00

On the occasion of the Rome Temple groundbreaking we headed to Rome Friday returning to Milan on Sunday afternoon. Giovanni is involved with the PR for the temple and helped the world report people with interviews, ect... Charlotte and I got to hang out with the cousins for the short stay and enjoyed being with family, and being apart of this historical event even if it was a fast trip.

something new, well to some of you

2010-10-21T11:52:00.002+02:00

What's new?? We are going to have a new little one arriving in March! I am about half way through the pregnancy and feeling great! Yesterday we got to take a peek at our "little" during an ultrasound! It was exciting!! Even Lottie was saying "baby, baby"! Gio and I are undecided about finding out what we will be welcoming into the world come spring, so I had the Dr write the BIG Answer down on an index card and seal it in an envelope, that way if we get really anxious we can open it up and know! Excitment is the best word to describe what we are feeling!

a few favorites

2010-10-19T21:09:00.002+02:00

Lottie loves these two videos!

What do you think??

Caramel dipped

2010-10-12T21:12:00.004+02:00

Feeling the mood of the season I have been craving caramel dipped apples! I remembered seeing a recipe somewhere in blog world during the past week, but could not seem to find it... I was looking for a simple caramel recipe that would not be too difficult to make, while Googleing the subject I came upon a GREAT recipe go here to check it out! It was fairly easy to make (I did it along side dinner) let the caramel cool while we ate and dipped my apples after dinner was eaten! The apples are now in the fridge. I plan on sending some with Gio to the office tomorrow! His co-workers will be in for a treat, I don't know if any of them have ever had a caramel dipped apple!

Thanks Marco

2010-10-05T14:26:00.001+02:00

Our friend took a few shots of us the other day. Here is a preview.

Sicily Summer Highlights

2010-10-04T14:03:00.000+02:00

I am attempting for the first time a collage. I hope it comes through ok. It was hard to choose just a few pictures to show you from our time in Sicily... back in July! I do think, however; that these represent our fun time! Now that the weather is turning COLD here in Milan looking at pictures of the beach is stirring up feeling of nostaglia for sun and water!

Beautiful, really.

2010-10-02T22:18:00.003+02:00

I had an awesome experience the other night! I went on a date with my friend Bianca to hear Andrea Bocelli sing in the Duomo (main Cathedral) of Milan!!! He has such a simplistic and clear voice that resonates through whoever is listening. The setting was perfect: detailed paintings hanging between the columns depicting the life of Christ, stained glass telling stories from the Bible, most everything around crying out to acknowledge the existence of a greater power in our lives.
My only 2 complaints are the hard benches that made sitting for nearly 3 hours difficult and the late hour of the concert (9pm).
The concert was to benefit a foundation (sorry it is in Italian)supporting children in Haiti. In opening the concert a now grown orphan sang an original song she wrote about her feeling of her beloved country, it was lovely. Then Andrea came out and sang. There was a small boys choir to accompany him during a few numbers as well as a young Ukrainian violinist. Everyone was wonderful! I thank Giovanni for getting us the almost impossible tickets and to Bianca for coming up with the idea to invite me!

Fried little fish

2010-09-24T13:20:00.001+02:00

Remember when I told you I would post some pictures of Lottie popping little fried fishy?? Well here are 2 for your viewing pleasure! I have other pictures from the summer that I want to share- sorry for my absence! Hoping to have them up next week!

Accepting yourself

2010-09-23T15:01:00.002+02:00

"We receive mixed messages today that self-love and a sense of self-worth are forms of selfishness and conceit. However, I know from my own experience that when I don't fully accept myself and all of my warts, blemishes, and imperfections, I am crippled in my charity toward God and my neighbors. Let me encourage you not to feel guilty as you aspire to appropriate self-love, which comes in part by honest self-knowledge and acceptance."
—Jeffrey R. Holland, On Earth As It Is in Heaven

Time well spent

2010-09-02T07:19:00.002+02:00

Our vacation has been GREAT! So great infact that I am still on vacation (Gio went home last week... someone has to work, sorry Giovi!)!
We spent a few weeks in Sicily with Gio's family and after a short day in Milan to change out some of the luggage we flew State side and have been here for a little over 3 weeks. We took a few days to visit some friends in Saramento, CA and one week in Lake Powell with my family! The in between times full of movies, pool trips and visits with loved ones! I don't know when I will get any pictures posted, but for now I am enjoying family and our time here!

vacation time

2010-07-22T10:37:00.003+02:00

The Bags are packed, the house is clean enough to leave.... Tuesday night we jumped on a plane to head south. We are in Sicily for the next few weeks and already enjoying the Food that will make us FAt and the Sun that will color our skins, oh, and least I forget the siesta's that are nearly madatory! For the first few days of our trip we are in Palermo. Giovanni is doing some Geneology work here. I am enjoying seeing new places, Lottie is adored the beach and the tiny fried fish we had for dinner last night! (pic's to come). It was so very funny to watch her pop them into her mouth like they were french fries! One after another, always tail first. I am off to play with Lottie, she just brought me a jasmine flower for my hair... so sweet!

I just needed to Breathe

2010-07-12T20:40:00.005+02:00

T

Today I had some challenging moments as a mother. Lottie has not been feeling well for a few days. She had a fever Friday and Sat with a runny nose and hardly any appetite. Sunday the fever was gone, but still a yucky nose and no appetite. I know that this is nothing to be alarmed about, but today she was just inconsolable!
She would throw herself on the ground and scream. I knew she was not feeling well and wondered if her throat was hurting since her little voice was really hoarse and she had a cough this morning. I tried giving her many things, singing, playing, offering different drinks and snacks. I finally just left her on the ground to work it out for a few mins (all the while she is still MADLY pulling out fist fulls of hair) and went to the other room to breathe!! This honestly was the first time I had encountered a heavy feeling of inadequacy as a mother. What can I do??? Am I really going to be able to help her figure out her feelings and work through them? I know there must be more ahead of me, but as for today I was nearly in tears not knowing what to do! a little later I remembered this wonderful video I saw last week.
Read whole talk here.

Do you need a HUG???

2010-07-09T22:01:00.002+02:00

I saw these people a few months ago in the center of Milan. I got a HUG! My grandma sent this on to me so I thought I would share with you... Along with my virtual open arms to give you all ABBRACCI!

Independence Day

2010-07-04T16:59:00.005+02:00

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. (from the Constitution

"...where the Spirit of the Lord is , there is liberty." 2 Corinthians 3:17

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. (from the Declaration of Independence)

I am very THANKFUL for the freedoms and Liberties I enjoy! Not only the freedoms of going where I want or doing what I want. Choosing how to live my life, however not being naive to the fact that it did not come free. Thank you to those who have given much for these FREEDOMS!
More then anything I am Thankful that I have spiritual freedom that enjoy thanks to a Loving Father in Heaven who prepared a plan long ago so that we may all return to him; thanks to our Savior, Jesus Christ!
"Wherefore men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself". 2Nephi 2:27 (the Book of Mormon)

Green Rice Salad

2010-07-03T11:13:00.003+02:00

I LOVE this recipe! It is best if you can make it the night before or in the morning and let the flavors mingle before serving. It can be served on a bed of lettuce with a roll for a full meal, or as a side salad! I also love this recipe because it was given to me by my sweet friend Brighid who this week has moved with her family from Milan (we miss you already).

Green Rice Salad

Balsamic vinaigrette:
2cCups olive oil, preferably extra virgin
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
6-8 green onions, including green tops, minced
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp minced or pressed garlic
2 tsp granulated sugar
salt
freshly ground pepper

Rice salad:
2 cups long- grain brown rice
2 cups long- grain white rice
6 green onions, inculding green tops, finely chopped
2-3 cups minced mixed fresh herbs (ex. basil, cilantro, mint, parsley, tarragon, and/or watercress)
1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
2 cups cooked fresh green peas or frozen peas
1/4 cup pine nuts

FRESH HERBS are the SECRET to this glorious salad! Use herbs in whatever combo you find appealing. *I don't have access to any kind of cheddar here so I use parma or grana. Really any combo of cheese should work. I also like to use a combo of barley, kamut, or other grains other than rice to give more substance. Be creative~!

To make vinaigrette combine all ingredients adding salt and pepper to taste. Whisk well to blend and reserve.

Cook brown rice in water fluff with fork and transfer to large mixing bowl, cool slightly. Gently toss the warm rice with about 1/3 of the vinaigrette. Fluff frequently until it cools completely, then cover and let stand at room temp for several hours or as long as over night.

Cook white rice in water, fluff with fork cool to room temp, then add it to the marinated brown rice in large bowl. Toss with green onions, minced herbs, cheese, green peas, and remaining vinaigrette to taste let stand for about 30 min. for flavors to blend.

Toast pine nuts, cool and add just before serving.
Serves 12-14 as a salad, or 6-8 as main.

Got Milk?

2010-06-26T23:56:00.003+02:00

How fresh is your milk?? Around the area of Milan there are this little MILK vending machines. You can buy a bottle (plastic .30 or glass 1.00euro) another option is bring one from home (I saw someone even use a coca -cola bottle)open the little door, drop in your euro and watch the bottle fill with milk!

When I first heard about this system I thought imagined in my head little tubes running from the machine to the cows teet(thanks for the correction :) being milked... all going right into my bottle! It is not quite that FRESH, but almost. It tastes yummy and has that cream that settles on the top!!!

These are just a few other pictures taken on Gio's phone recently.

Lunch

2010-06-25T18:59:00.003+02:00

HUNGRY???

Happy Fathers Day

2010-06-20T22:40:00.004+02:00

How thankful I am for Fathers!
Big arms to Hug, Teach, Comfort, Disipline, Praise, and Love!
I know Charlotte feels the same way about her daddy as I do mine! We could not do with out! We Love you!!!

Pure Joy at loving on Daddy!

We celebrated (american) Father's Day(Italian Father's Day is March 19th- St. Joseph) with a pizza made to look like Giovanni. Believe it or not Lottie helped me put on some of the toppings! Giovanni was totally surprised! He had no idea that today was "special"!

I tried coconut saffron gelato, pretty good!

Fathers

2010-06-19T14:47:00.007+02:00

In preparation of celebrating the Fathers in our lives tomorrow, I thought I would share a video that recently touched my heart.

To read the full talk click here.
I love what he says at the end of the video: "Making relationships with each other should be one of the grate eternal priorities of our lives".

bedding

2010-06-14T21:45:00.009+02:00

I have finished a few projects lately I wanted to share:
Bumper pads.

Before and After of a toy remake I did for a friend. Her baby has skin reactions when in contact with certain fabrics (polyester being one) so I remade the rings with some scraps I had.

A Quilt. I LOVED how this turned out! This is the first Queen size quilt I have made from start to finish BY MYSELF! I used a hoop to do all the quilting and it took a bit of time, but I am very happy with the results! I made it for a friend that is leaving Milan. I mentioned it before when I wrote about the tea party.
You can see the back is signed.

Now that I look at these pictures and the title of my post I am ready to climb into bed and SLEEP!
Have you been busy doing anything crafty??

sun

2010-06-12T22:46:00.008+02:00

The weather lately is so HOT! it's not just hot, but muggy and every article of clothing sticks to my body, YUCK! We have not yet turned on our a/c, the unit is in our bedroom I am sure when I get that desperate I will be living in there 24/7!!!
Any one else getting uncomfortable??
Gives me thoughts of fresh squeezed lemonade, eating only salad and cherries.. they are in season here! YUM!
The Fifa world cup started a few days ago, although I have not caught much of the games yet I did attend a reception with Gio a about a month ago celebrating South Africa! Food was AMAZING and I felt so emotional watching the excitment they were trying to pass along that AFRICA was going to host the games! Many of you may have seen or heard the song and dance (i could not find a good video of them together) they put together for the games I just thought it was so clever! The dance is a combination of different moves you would do with a soccor ball very african style... so fun!

Another fun one to check out:

Welcome sun, water & fun of SUMMER!

2010-06-02T22:21:00.005+02:00

Today is Italy's National Independence Day! It is nice to have Gio home in the middle of the week! We slept in a little this morning (so nice) and had a lovely lunch with some church friends at kind of a park (it is really a "scout camp", but not really like usa scout camps). Then we took a dip in our friends pool! Charlotte LOVED it even if the water was a bit chilly! The 10 min or so we splashed she really enjoyed!
Oh, and we got a new fridge yesterday! Our old one (the smaller one in front) has been only a little cold for almost more then a week now! SO GLAD to have a new one and not throw the milk out every day!

P.S. We have a new nephew!! He was born Saturday in Utah! Looking forward to meeting him in person- such a cutie!

back again

2010-05-27T11:09:00.005+02:00

When I wrote about being BORING I was simply just bored. I have not been offended by any of the recent comments, or even the lack there of. Really, I know people look at my blog (even when there is nothing new) and like myself comment when they have something to say. Which does not always happen. No biggie!

At our house the month of May has been full of guests! Nearly non-stop! As I write I am waiting the arrival of some dear friends!! We really enjoy visitors, I just hope that they don't mind the cramped quarters! Lottie loves to come in right after waking up in the morning to try and play with who ever is staying on the pull out couch! She dumps out all of her toys and shows them one by one.

While Zia Maria was here for a few weeks we took her to Certosa di Pavia. A certosa is where those who wish to dedicate their life to God live in solitude. It was a gorgeous building and interesting to see how they lived. There are only 2 working certosa's in Italy today one Male and one female. We all commented how sad we thought it was that they think to dedicate one's life to God means solitude. Very different from our belief of living in family settings and working to serve others.

lottie finds some pebbles.

The next day we visited with Zia Lidia and her family.
Lottie's was able to see a Cat from up close which she calls "mew mew"
Little did the cat know what was coming!

I also have have been doing some patch work on a quilt for a dear friend "B" that will be leaving Milan soon. (pictures will come after I get it quilted) Her hubby works with the State Dept. and over the past few years has worked with Gio in his various positions. Amanda and I threw a TEA PARTY to honor our sweet "B" complete with little delicious things to eat and tea in every form! We played a few games: guess the herb, tea time line, and how much do you know about B. We had all in attendance secretly sign the back of the quilt which we presented to her at the end of giving the answers. It was a fun day!

Oh, and I could not leave this little video out!

boring

2010-05-22T16:02:00.003+02:00

There are a slew of things I have wanted to write about lately... but really have not felt like blogging (this could be do to the response from my last post- can't i think about things like that now and again????). Maybe I will get out of that mood soon. Then I can tell you about the interesting creations that have come from my ice cream maker recently (with photos)! I fear that you must wait just a little while longer.

Inertia

2010-05-13T15:48:00.007+02:00

Another peek into my head..... Have you ever been walking down the street, in a supermarket or shopping center with someone walking towards you- You are faced with two choice: 1. Move out of the way so they can continue on their course or 2. STAY and the other party moves. What decides this?? Well, if you want to read all of the scientific explanation you can find it here. Simply put: it is Inertia. I often think of this as I am out and about walking around the city.
P.S. There is a new Frock by Friday for May! If you are interested go here

at least Two reasons for Today

2010-05-09T22:11:00.011+02:00

One of our church leaders said some beautiful words about mothers a few years back:
“During my professional career as a doctor of medicine, I was occasionally asked why I chose to do that difficult work. I responded with my opinion that the highest and noblest work in this life is that of a mother. Since that option was not available to me, I thought that caring for the sick might come close. I tried to care for my patients as compassionately and competently as Mother cared for me.

Many years ago the First Presidency issued a statement that has had a profound and lasting influence upon me. 'Motherhood,' they wrote, 'is near to divinity. It is the highest, holiest service to be assumed by mankind. It places her who honors its holy calling and service next to the angels.

Because mothers are essential to God’s great plan of happiness, their sacred work is opposed by Satan, who would destroy the family and demean the worth of women.' " Russell M. Nelson, “Our Sacred Duty to Honor Women,” Ensign, May 1999, 38

One:

Thank you sweet mother for bringing me into this world and for teaching me how to love! I honor you!
Two:
(this was taken today Lbug is getting some teeth and this is the only thing I could think of to relive her pain- can you see the tear??)
Thank you Sweet Charlotte for giving me the precious gift of MOTHERHOOD! I EnJOY our time together and learn so very much through your view of the World! I LOVE YOU!

(my Mother in law)
Cara Giovanna, Grazie per il lavoro che hai fatto come mamma! E' per quello che fai come nonna! Auguri!

I have had a great day! Church was Lovely! I was gave a talk. I learned some new things. I felt the LOVE of my Father in Heaven, my sweet husband and my little Lottie!
We have Zia Maria (Gio's aunt) staying with us for a few days. I am happy and Honored to me a Mother!
Happy Mother's Day to you!

(this is my present! Can't wait to use it!)
Check out an inspirational story about a mother below!

Finally my FROCK!

2010-05-09T22:04:00.004+02:00

I actually made my "frock by Friday" 3 weeks ago, I just had some minor adjustments to make- it took me these 3 weeks to do 2 or 3 tiny little things and the dress only took me 3-4 days to make (during nap times and after bed time of course)! I love how it turned out! I wore it today (Mother's Day) and got some fun compliments on it, those that I told it was handmade were really impressed! YEAH! Although there are some "imperfections" in my sewing I would recommend this pattern to even a beginner sewer.

Higher Ground

2010-05-03T00:45:00.001+02:00

A Frock By Friday

2010-04-21T14:35:00.000+02:00

A Frock By Friday
I am going to participate in this.. looks fun!!

Play time

2010-04-15T15:55:00.000+02:00

Happy

2010-04-15T15:43:00.002+02:00

Since the start of the year my blogging has been mostly pictures and very few words. Today I would like to share just a bit from the inside:
There are many thoughts in my head and some spoken aloud to Lottie during the day and at night with Gio. Occasionally on the phone with a friend or written in a letter, but most of the time I am alone with my thoughts. Lately I can't help but to think about the many blessings of simple everyday life.
There are many around me (near and far) dealing with loss, sorrow, and health issues so many little stumbling blocks in the way of "happiness". Life is not always easy, if it were would we really feel satisfaction and joy with out the struggle? I think NOT.

This is not to say that it is good to always have terrible things happen- but when they don't are we HAPPY? are we THANKFUL for what we do have?
I for one I am happy for my Health- I feel good. My family is healthy and this makes me HAPPY! I am Loved and I Love others too- this makes me HAPPY and GRATEFUL! My Basic needs are filled, as well as many of my WANTS- this makes me GRATEFUL! There is beauty around for me to enjoy! JOY!
Don't know if it is the newness of LIFE in the air that Spring brings- but I know that I need to acknowledge the goodness that makes me smile!

Postcards from PARIS

2010-04-09T22:30:00.006+02:00

Almost last minute we decided to head to Paris for Easter Weekend to visit with friends and enjoy all of the blooming beauty that spring offers! Leaving Friday night we arrived a little down due to Gio loosing his phone on our first flight and being unable to track it down (sad), however we were so happy to be on a mini vacation and see our dear friends that 1 phone less was no big deal. We spent our time relaxing and walking most of the major sites. When we spent 3 months there 2 years ago I was able to "see and do" most all the touristy things- (Gio unfortunately worked)so we just wanted to take it easy. We watched some movies and Gio got in a few games of Chess with Richard! Our gracious hosts treated us so well while there- THANK YOU Elaine and Richard we Love you!
Check out a few of our memories below. Have you been to PAris? What was your favorite memory?
Highlights:
*Trying Escargot and liking it!
*Charlotte eating a chocolate Easter egg 4 the first time
*Playing on the lawns at Trocadero and enjoying the view of the E. tower
*Brunch nearly everyday
*Chess matches
*Eating Crepes on the streets
*Great weather
*showing Charlotte around

Baby S

2010-04-01T23:29:00.003+02:00

Welcome to the world BABY S!!! You are so dolce! WE love you!!!

Lottie and I went to visit friends today- Look how sweet little "S" is, just over one week old! SO SWEET!!! Lottie was pretty surprised when "S" started crying and realized she was REAL, no dolly here!!! She got to work on saying "baby" and doing the sign that goes along with it. Lottie was very happy to try and snuggle up on baby S.
In preparation for S's arrival I helped Mommy Michelle make most of the bedding and other details for the new special room! We had a blast doing it- learned that neither of us can sew a very straight line, but that it is so fun to work on projects in more then one! Thanks for giving me something to help out on, I really enjoyed it!
I also made a diaper cake for baby S including a binky clip, burp cloths, nursing cover and a car seat tent the topper was a little pair of reversable kimono style booties, wishing I had a picture of the cake it turned out so Cute!

reads

2010-03-30T14:14:00.001+02:00

The past few days I have been spending the weird spring weather reading a few books and apartment hunting. We are starting to outgrow our 1bedroom place, but are not yet convinced about the price of anything newer. Budgeting to see if we can afford (or want) to buy a place here.
What are you doing in your free time these days??
I enjoyed both of these books, easy reads- and light entertainment with a love story in both!

a few pictures

2010-03-25T10:38:00.001+01:00

growing

2010-03-23T23:27:00.003+01:00

Lottie is growing!
Right now she seems to understand SOOOO much! Friday evening I was getting ready so we could go out, I was in the bedroom getting dressed and for a final touch put on a necklace. I stepped into another room to do something else and called Lottie so I could load her up to go- out she came walking with a pearl necklace on!!! Then she walked back in the bedroom and the next thing I knew she had on the matching bracelet! She is so very observant! When she is about to do something she knows she shouldn't she looks at me shakes her head "NO" then does it anyway... a mind of her own, that is for sure! I love her so very much! She has started to say "daddy", "mommy", "milk" "meahn" (amen), and other little noises. She reminds us MANY times during the day to pray- she is so sweet!

Great helper!

2010-03-18T17:53:00.002+01:00

I was hanging laundry out to dry today and Lottie came running in and stuck her head into the washer to pull clothes out and started hanging them the best her little "1yr" hands could! I started running around looking for the camera and some batteries with enough juice to capture the whole thing- in the end I only had my phone- so the image is a bit blurry- but at least you have a glimpse of my little helper!

Peek of Rome

2010-03-13T01:29:00.001+01:00

Here are a few pictures of us at TREVI fountain where Lottie threw her first "wishing to return to ROME coin"- she loved it! Especially throwing it over her shoulder!

wall art

2010-03-11T15:37:00.003+01:00

The past few weeks I have been helping my friend Michelle create useful things for the nursery awaiting Little Baby S to arrive mid April. We have made bumper pads, sheets, covers for the changing table, window valances, a diaper stacker and a quilt still in the works! While we have been working on all these fun little projects we added a few throw pillows to the list for her newly painted and remodeled front room. We also tried our hand at making a frame from pieces of wood and stretching a panel of fabric over the frame for some wall art! We were both very pleased with how it turned out! I can't wait to see it on the bright green wall in her home! (I will post the link when she gets it all put together!)

I LOVE IT! Don't you??

Your potential

2010-03-11T10:25:00.002+01:00

Last week while preparing a lesson for church I came across a quote I had written down a few years ago in my journal. It was as powerful for me now reading it as it was when I wrote it. I thought it a GREAT one to share.

"I feel to invite women everywhere to rise to the great potential within you. I do not ask that you reach beyond your capacity. I hope you will not nag yourselves with the thoughts of failure. I hope you will not try to set goals far beyond your capacity to achieve. I hope you will simply do what you can do in the best way you know. If you do so, you will witness miracles come to pass". President Gordon B. Hinckley

What do you think?? Do you realize your potential?? Do you know the power with-in you?? Do you acknowledge the miracles in your life due to the talents given to you?? Next time you feel down because you are NOT something- read this and hopefully you will be reminded that there is more inside of you then you may remember!

YUMMY spring cake roll

2010-03-08T16:49:00.003+01:00

Cake
3eggs
1cup granulated sugar
1/3cup water
3/4cup Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
1teaspoon baking powder
1/4teaspoon salt
2 1/4teaspoons chopped fresh or 3/4 teaspoon dried rosemary leaves, crushed
1teaspoon grated lemon peel
2tablespoons powdered sugar
Lemon Cream Filling
1cup whipping cream
2tablespoons powdered sugar
1teaspoon grated lemon peel
Garnish
1tablespoon powdered sugar

1. Heat oven to 375°F. Line 15x10x1-inch pan with foil; grease generously with shortening.
2. In large bowl, beat eggs with electric mixer on high speed about 5 minutes or until thick and lemon colored. Gradually beat in granulated sugar. On low speed, beat in water. Gradually beat in flour, baking powder and salt until smooth. Fold in rosemary and 1 teaspoon lemon peel. Pour into pan; spread evenly to corners.
3. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Immediately loosen cake from edges of pan and turn upside down onto towel generously sprinkled with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar. Carefully remove foil. Trim off stiff edges of cake if necessary. While cake is hot, carefully roll cake and towel from narrow end. Cool on cooling rack at least 40 minutes.
4. In small bowl, beat whipping cream and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar with electric mixer on high speed until stiff. Stir in 1 teaspoon lemon peel.
5. Unroll cake and remove towel. Spread filling over cake; roll up cake. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon powdered sugar. Store covered in refrigerator.

This is sooooooo yummy I made it TWICE this weekend! Try it and let me know what you think! FOr sure it is a keeper in my home!

Hope

2010-03-03T13:46:00.001+01:00

homesick??

2010-02-16T15:36:00.002+01:00

There are times when I am talking about home that people have to stop and ask me where home is exactly. I don't blame them since I refer to both living in Milan as well as the house my parents live in as HOME. However when I leave Milan I don't often miss it. Please don't misunderstand me, I of course miss Govanni and wish that he were sharing in all the same experiences as Lottie and myself, however it is only when I leave Utah that the aching, meloncholy feelings set in. Maybe it is because in Utah there is never a shortage of people to visit with (inculding many Family members) and it seems that there is always something going on. In Milan our life is also full of parties to attend and great friends to hang out with, but I find myself having to invent things during the day to stay motivated... aside from the daily tasks of washing dishes, clothes, ironing , cleaning, cooking, ect...I don't know!
What ever it is I hope the feeling goes away soon! It always is so hard on poor Giovanni, I love him so very much and am Grateful that he understands how important going "home" is for me!

Roadtrip

2010-02-03T16:36:00.001+01:00

Bex,little O, Lottie and I took a quick over night trip to visit with nonna Eileen in Preston Idaho. It was fun an beautiful, lots of snow up there!!!

Rachael

photo posted from my iPhone

A cool treat

2010-01-29T06:44:00.001+01:00

Icecream is always good, even when you have to wear a coat to go get it!

Rachael

photo posted from my iPhone

cold front

2010-01-28T23:14:00.002+01:00

Lottie and I are chilling (literally) in Utah for a few weeks before heading back to Italy. Costa Rica was amazing.. check out all of the family updates to the side with many pictures... who knows maybe soon I will get to posting some pictures as well. In the mean time we are trying to avoid colds and play as much as possible with family and friends! We love to visit!

Adios pappi Giovanni

2010-01-20T04:22:00.001+01:00

Giovanni had to leave us a few days early to return and work in Milan. The small regional plane left from the short runway and flew him to san jose where he made one of a few connections returning home. Adios gio, see you in february.

Rachael

photo posted from my iPhone

Going bananna's

2010-01-20T03:42:00.001+01:00

This guy snuck in the kitchen and stole a bananna!

Rachael

photo posted from my iPhone

Monkey buisness

2010-01-20T03:41:00.001+01:00

Rachael

photo posted from my iPhone