Archive for February, 2015
The Pinoli Thieves Posted by Geoff on Feb 11, 2015
Pinoli, essential ingredient of many Italian culinary delights, such as the classic pesto alla Genovese, are becoming so valuable, at up to 100 euros a kilo, that they are being targeted by thieves for resale on he black market. What Are Pinoli? Pino Pinea (The Stone, or Umbrella Pine). Photo (CC) by Matt Westgate Pinoli…
Italian Transitive and Intransitive Verbs – A Practical Guide Posted by Serena on Feb 9, 2015
Funnily enough, a few days ago I received two different comments on a post that I wrote a long time ago on the difference between transitive and intransitive verbs. I went back and had a look at the article and decided that it’s definitely time to revise this topic. The original article is worth checking…
Our Italian Journey – Part 3: Pontremoli Posted by Geoff on Feb 5, 2015
In this episode guest blogger Bill Auge concludes his ‘Italian Journey’ series with a visit to our home town, Pontremoli in Lunigiana. “… a walk along the country lanes…” Photo: Bill Auge We’re back on the rails again heading northwest toward the northern reaches of Toscana. This time we’re moving at a more leisurely pace through…
Nevicata Posted by Serena on Feb 4, 2015
Preface by Geoff: Dear readers, when I opened the shutters and saw our valley transformed by an unexpected overnight snowfall, I immediately suggested to Serena that she described the vision in Italian for your edification. Little did I know that she would pen what to me is a rather beautiful poem ………………. Photo by Geoff…
A Very Smelly Blog! Posted by Geoff on Feb 2, 2015
Inspiration can arrive from the strangest of places or event. Take the other day for example, when our sweet little kitten Ambra deployed one of her deadly Weapons of Mass Destruction whilst we were sitting enjoying our afternoon coffee. Yes, Ambra paid an urgent visit to her lettiera (litter tray), and was so moved by…