Travel Photo Friday: On The Go

This was the souvenir Noah brought back from Rome. He tried to convince us that an outrageously, overpriced Transformer would be a good souvenir. Luckily, he and Adam found this cool little car. Before having kids, I never fully appreciated the many attributes of matchbox cars. Now I do. They are perfect travel toys. Small, portable, and good for all ages and genders. And they make good souvenirs, too. We have a nice little collection of Asian vehicles and now we have started our European collection.


We are in the midst of doing some major Sicilian site-seeing. We have our first visitors from the States (Nana and Poobah). Having visitors is always good motivation to get out and explore. I will return to posting on the blog next week. I am sure there will be lots to report. On the current itinerary: a castle tour, ricotta cheese making, The Valley of the Temples, Taormina, soccer games, an agriturisimo, Caltagirone, cupcake making, and lots of other good stuff.

Hope your weekend is filled with good stuff, too.

The Joy of Reading

Just heard this on NPR and had to share it. A great story to start the morning: how a reader got his start and what some special librarians did to foster his newly discovered love of reading. I can't imagine life without reading. It's like breathing to me. Inhaling and exhaling words and worlds. A daily necessity. I feel so lucky to have been surrounded by readers, librarians, and books from a very early age. I think that's why this story struck a chord with me.

Speaking of books and reading: what's on your list for this Fall?

I am looking forward to Neither Here nor There, Handmade Home, Catching Fire, Trail of Crumbs, The Leopard, and as always I am eager to hear your suggestions.

Travel Photo Friday: Catania Fish Market

A very lively spot in the heart of Catania, Sicily. Although not nearly as large as the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo, the Catania fish market is a full sensory experience...the tell-tale smells hit you before turning the corner, the lively banter between fishermen and shoppers, the colorful assortment, and even the mucky reminder not to wear open toed sandals. I recently read that some changes (related to licensing and health codes) were happening at the market and was curious to see the impact of those changes. There was one area that seemed a little more empty than before, but I was very relieved to see that overall it is still full of life and character. While wandering through the market yesterday, I was reminded of a great podcast on Amateur Travel (thanks, Emily). Madeline's description of Sicily as a place of raw intensity and authenticty seemed very fitting for the fish market. Have I mentioned yet that Sicily has some of the most amazing seafood we have ever eaten?

More Travel Pics here.