14 Comments

Regarding bleak Northern European mysteries:

It's been decades since I read it, but I immediately thought of Smilla's Sense of Snow, by Peter Hoeg.

And a favorite of mine is The Bird Artist by Howard Norman. It takes place in Newfoundland, not Northern Europe, but it's compelling enough to have inspired a trip there, which is well worth your time should you decide to cross the Atlantic!

Have a wonderful visit with your sisters. After way too long, I'm seeing mine In California next week!

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Have the BEST time with your sisters!! (My middle of the day, it's too hot do do anything else project is I am going to tackle the stack of boxes under the stairs that are filled with old Martha Stewart , Real Simple, and Gourmet MAGAZINES)

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You still have them?! Mine are looooong gone.

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We stumbled upon Cittá della Pieve decades ago and had an extraordinary meal at a restaurant who's name I don't think I ever knew. It was late and not much food remained so mamma - really, mamma - stood in the kitchen and made us exquisite gnocchi in a light broth. There was a somewhat large man at the next table soundly asleep. Not another soul in the place. And, the American soap opera All My Children playing on the TV in the dining room.

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That sounds like a dream. I definitely want to go back to try some of the restaurants.

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Love your posts Elizabeth ! Such a treat to read while surviving the long hot summer in Nevada.

Will be spending time in Umbria this fall and was planning to visit Citta" della Pieve. Now it has been confirmed (by you) that is a must see. Grazie mille

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We loved it, and I want to go back to see the Peruginos, which I didn't have time to do.

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What a gold mine of travel ideas! Enjoy visiting with your family!

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Oh my goodness, that pool is stunning! There is so much to uncover here, a trove of local knowledge. Thank you!

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Heading to the pool as we speak. I basically live there now. ;)

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I just made what was advertised as Stanley Tucci's favorite pasta, spaghetti alla nerano. This seems almost the same thing except this recipe had me take half the fried zucchini and a little pasta water and puree it in the blender. This recipe seems a little easier. I am going to give it a try. My zucchini were not as carmelized as I think yours were. Thank you for the recipe

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Yes, I know that recipe well, since I included it in my book The Italian Table, and this one is quite different. MUCH more olive oil, the zucchini are very caramelized, and also pecorino instead of parmigiano. In the end this is a much drier version , with more bite and stronger flavor. I was surprised by how different it tasted.

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Love your posts Elizabeth. Especially happy that you will be sharing special time with your sisters - how special is that. I know you will savor every moment🌿

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Loved this post and hearing about your sisters and their upcoming visit. And the very lovely sunflowers... my favorites!

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