Simple Italy: Italian Food, Culture, Lifestyle and Travel

by Sharon

Ways to live. But I think (and please forgive me for cheating on Italy for a moment) that living French and living Spanish and living Greek also are incredible. For me, it’s almost about “living Mediterranean,” that take-it-as-it-comes lifestyle that appreciates the fine things in life, whether it’s food, wine, sensuality, or the scent of the sea. If there is such a thing as a past life, I definitely spent it somewhere in this region of the world.

My “Inner Italian” is named Marina, a name bestowed upon me by my Italian friend Monica’s mother. Her mom hardly speaks a word of English, but explained to me that “Marina” is much prettier and softer than “Maureen,” and I couldn’t agree more! I can’t recall an exact moment of DISCOVERY when I met my Inner Italian, but I think she first surfaced during my first solo trip, which took me to a bed-and-breakfast in Napa Valley. I also met a gorgeous young Italian It means wholeheartedly embracing the simple goodness and sensuality in life. Taking the extra time, for example, to stop at a specialty market or gourmet grocery store for fine imported cheese or salumi rather than dashing into a regular supermarket makes a huge difference. Think how special it feels opening these hand-wrapped treasures as opposed to ripping open an industrial-strength package. It’s worth every extra dime you pay. It means purchasing the best quality you can afford, whether you’re talking shoes, pretty lingerie, or wine glasses. And even when it comes to things that DON’T cost money — valuing quality time spent with family and friends; enjoying the arts and culture Being IN Italy, of course! But since I’m usually in the United States instead, remembering what made my living and visiting Italy so pleasurable: good, unhurried meals with simple yet exquisite ingredients; good wine and conversation; and time spent dining with those I love spending time with. And since I can’t BE in Italy, I nurture my “Inner Italian” by reading travel books and cuisine/wine and travel magazines that celebrate this wonderful country. I also find it by seeking out authentic restaurants in Chicago and elsewhere in the United States where the waiters or owners actually speak Italian, giving me a chance not only to practice

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Carol Saunders: Frank Stallone on stage this weekend at 'Feast of Little Italy ...

07.11.09

Frank Stallone, the entertainer who singer Tony Bennett said does, “ the kind of singing that I love to hear and be around,” will be on the “Feast of Little Italy” performance stage at 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7 in Jupiter.

Stallone, an accomplished singer, musician and actor, is a natural performer. His singing, guitar playing and broad experience of playing in concert halls over the world, has given him an edge that audiences love.

He is also a songwriter whose number one hit “Far From Over,” from the film “Staying Alive,” earned him both Grammy and Golden Glove nominations for Best Soundtrack and Best Original Song, respectfully. He has also written and recorded compositions for seven films, including “Rocky I,” “II” and “III,” “Rambo II,” “Paradise Alley” and “Over The Top.”

Like other Stallone family members, Frank made his film debut in brother Sylvester’s 1976 film, “Rocky.” In that movie, he made his first on-screen singing appearance performing his own song, “Take You Back,” in the opening scene of the film.

Source: TCPalm

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