You know how your mom said something as a child that always stuck with you and you find yourself remembering those wise words well into your adult years?

Well, when I was young, I had a hard time understanding the Mother’s and Father’s Day gift-giving rituals that excluding us kids.

“But when is Kid’s Day?” I asked, as I handed her the gift my father had bought in our names.

“Every day is Kid’s Day,” she replied, as she happily accepted the present, along with the laughter and adoration of my father, her quick remarks had earned her.

“Hmmm …,” I thought, as I begrudgingly marched off. “It’s never kids day … and I’ll never tell my kids that!”

And I haven’t. (No, I don’t have kids, but that is neither here nor there, really …)

But I have repeated those words.

When I moved to Calabria in 2006, I’d never heard of the Festa della Donna or International Women’s Day, so I wasn’t really expecting the outpouring of presents I received from my husband. Although he brought me a mimosa flower-and if memory serves, a new pair of shoes-he did have one thing to say about it.

“Why isn’t there an International Men’s Day?” he asked.

… and I think you know what I said.

photo credit: jlastras

But more to the point, today, March 8, is International Women’s Day. It represents not only the economic and political achievements for which it was founded, but for me, here in Calabria, thousands of miles from my closest female family members and friends, it represents gratitude.

1. Today, I’m celebrating Women’s Day with as many international women as I can round up-and that is the first way you can celebrate. We are meeting for pizza and shopping here in Catanzaro, and I, for one, am hoping to hit up the Furniture Fair in Catanzaro Lido.

2. If you can’t get your girls together for lunch and shopping but happen to be in one of Italy’s larger cities, then you are in luck. Venice had free admission to the state museum yesterday and several attractions in Rome and Florence regularly have free or reduced entrance fees for Women’s Day.

3. Recognize the Women in Your Life. I’m thankful for many of them*, particularly the ones who have helped to make my transition into Italy a success.

From the blogless world, I’d like to thank my favorite Irish lass, Jenny, who found my sign for a mother language English teacher in our local bookstore and dialed the number.

Kerri and Felicia, who are down to earth, logical and realistic in their experiences as an expat in Calabria and who share their positive perspectives each time we meet.

For my newest friend, Karen, who’s recent move to Catanzaro has spurred an equally enduring friendship between our husbands and who is teaching me the art of making a mojito.

Many of you know my friend, Michelle of Bleeding Espresso, who incidentally, I met-along with Dawn, from Bovino-the weekend of my first International Women’s Day celebration in Calabria.

So, there you go. Three ways to celebrate International Women’s Day today. What are you planning to do?

*For the purpose of this post I’ve limited my shout-outs to women who live in Calabria. So, Mom, yes … I love you, too!

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

One of my new favorite hobbies is going through my Stat Counter and Lijit reports and discovering which terms readers search to reach this blog. Popular terms include “Pasta Puttanesca Recipe,” “How Do You Eat a Persimmon” and “Things You Shouldn’t Say in Italy” – and we’ll get back to that in a minute.

It is an eye-opening experience, glimpsing into the mind of the average Italophile Internet-searcher, and it brings a certain responsibility that I refuse to take lightly.

So, you asked-or someone did!-and now I’ll answer. Here are five of the most interesting terms that were searched this week on My Bella Vita.

photo credit: Spencer E Holtaway

1. Che Cazzo Fa

See? I told you we’d get back to things you should say.

Che Cazzo Fa is literally translated as “What the …” wait, we’ve been over this. I’ve already warned you about this one.

2. You Dirty Pig in Italian

You dirty pig-or brutto porco-is yet another example of something you shouldn’t really say. I pressed my husband for details on this expression and his words to me, and thus to you, were, “Cherrye, you shouldn’t really say it. It is not very … classy.”

He did, however, admit that friends freely toss this term around when joking with each other.

3. Why Do Italians Say Ma Va

I almost fell out of my chair reading this because I instantly envisioned a young Italian-American struggling to decipher the words his grandmother muttered in moments of frustration as she walked around her kitchen table.

Seriously, can’t you see it?

She’s walking around the room, an over-sized moo-moo like dress hanging to her knees-in my vision it is white with tiny red and pink flowers-and she’s throwing her hands into the air in utter annoyance, muttering, “ma va …”

Ok. I’m back.

Anyway, dear Google searcher, your grandmother-yes, I’m still hung up on that-says ma va as a precursor to the granddaddy of Italian expressions, “ma vafaculo.”

And no. It isn’t nice to say.

4. Flirting with Italian Men

Interestingly enough, my blogging pal, Jessica of Why Go Italy recently wrote an article about impressing Italians. Her tips might help if you’re looking to date one or take him home to mamma. I’d also recommend you flirt unabashedly.

They do.

And you know … when in Rome.

5. Should I Sleep with an Italian Man

Seriously, I could not make this stuff up.

So, honey, if you re-Google this or come back here on the seemingly off-chance that I answered your question, you are in luck.

My initial thought was, “it works for me!”

But then I decided to go the more responsible route and reply with “get to know your partner and use a condom. Or just in case he doesn’t speak English … un preservativo!

Bloggers, have you had any funny search terms come up in your stats lately? Please share. And readers, feel free to leave a comment or question. This little post could turn into a series.

I type this post-one day before it’ll be published and you’ll read it-on the one year anniversary of the day my life  forever changed.

Yes, that sounds dramatic-and those of you know me know I have that flair … but this time, it is true.

One year ago today I received that middle-of-the-night phone call from my mother that spurred my last-minute trip to Texas, the fight to arrive at my father’s side “in time” and the inevitable services and formalities that follow when things don’t go as you’d hoped.

One year ago today, I was still a rather naive American living the dream in southern Italy.

One year ago today, I had that sense of indestructibility of people who’ve never been crushed.

One year ago today, I didn’t think we’d make it.

But we did.

I’ve been thinking lately about the events in our lives that forever change us. It doesn’t have to be something as dramatic as a middle-of-the-night phone call or as traumatic as the death of a loved one. For many of us it is the moment we met our future spouse, the day your children were born, the day we moved abroad.

And it is that positivity of change I want to focus on today.

photo credit: dodo1976

For starters, I want to welcome Leanne of from Australia to Italy to bella Calabria. She and her bel ragazzo (aka: new fiance) recently relocated to Malito in the province of Cosenza-about an hour northwest of me here in Catanzaro. They have a lot of things in the works up there and I wish them good luck with their new endeavors.

Elsewhere in Calabria, Michelle of Bleeding Espresso has been talking about Zen in the Pen and one of her kids, Pasqualina, was recently entered into a photo contest at Huffington Post. I gave her a “10″-and you should, too … but I still don’t see the family resemblance, Michelle.

Natalie Trusso Cafarello of Letters From Tuscany recently wrote about a love affair of a different kind-a love affair with a woman, whose tough past and complex future is often at odds with Natalie’s own plans for this lovely lady. It is poignantly written and soulful, and I’m sure this woman’s other lovers feel the same way about her.

Speaking of love affairs, the Italophile site has information on dating and mating in the bel paese, complete with facts and data about marriage in Italy, who the Italians are marrying, when they are marrying and why, while Jessica at Why Go Italy has helpful hints for anyone wanting to snag-snag, guys, not shag-an Italian.

If you already have that someone special, visit Melanie at Italofile for a roundup from the Twittersphere of the most romantic places in Italy locals go with their sweethearts.

As for me and my sweetheart, we are going to lay low this weekend, reflect upon the events of this past year and give thanks to all of the loves of our lives. Valentine’s Day is not just a day for lovers, it is a day for love. It’s a day for friends-both real-life and virtual-and a day to celebrate the impact these people have in your life. And I, for one, am glad you are here.

Happy Festa di San Valentino!

Ahhh … it is here. The day we’ve waited for … longed for … dreamed about.

It is World Nutella Day 2010, so let me be one of the first people to say “Auguri,” and welcome you to the party.

Those of you who know me well, know I’m an avid party planner. I don’t wait until the last minute and I like to make sure all of my i’s are crossed and t’s are dotted.

Or something like that.

In fact, I started planning for Nutella Day back in December, when I created American-inspired dessert trays for my Italian friends and family. There were Rice Krispie trees. There were sugar cookie santas. And there were Nutella-filled powder cookies.

And they were good.

Unfortunately, you are just gonna have to take my word for it, because yesterday, when this highly organized, slightly anal-retentive planner went to write this post,  she (who also talks about herself in third person when she’s made a mistake) realized all of the pictures-every. single. one of them-was out of focus.

So I did what any hard-headed, Nutella-lovin’ girl would do … I cried to my husband.

And he came through.

For World Nutella Day 2010, I present you with my husband’s very own …

Orange Nutella Breakfast Cake

(Served to our bed and breakfast guests on World Nutella Day)

Ingredients:
>> 3/4 cup sugar
>> 1 cup all-purpose flour
>> 2 teaspoons baking powder
>> 3 eggs
>> 1/4 cup butter
>> Freshly squeezed juice from 3 large oranges
>> Nutella (depending on your tastes)

Directions:

1. Beat the eggs and sugar until peaks form.

2. Add the orange juice and continue mixing.

3. Slowly add the butter, flour and finally the baking powder, mixing well between each ingredient.

4. Bake in the over at 350° for 30 minutes.

5. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes.

6. Generously spread warmed nutella over the top of the cake.

7. Cut. Serve. Devour.

Buon Appetito!

By the way, you can also read about how we are celebrating World Nutella Day at our bed and breakfast today. In addition to the cake, of course.

Auguri, Nutellaphiles and thank you Sara and Michelle for another great year!

After two weeks of accepting posts, nominations and submissions, the first annual Blogging From the Boot contest is closed for entries. Judges worked all weekend narrowing down the entries, breaking ties and notifying finalists.

And now it is up to you.

The three finalists from each category are listed on the AffordableCallingCards.net website, along with links to their respective blogs and posts. Take your time, read through the posts and click the “VOTE” link below each section to cast your vote for that category.

But I warn you … it won’t be easy.

The judges had a hard time narrowing the entries to three in each category. How, oh how, could I ever vote for just one?

So grab a glass of wine, sit back, relax and read Blogging From the Boot: The Best of 2009

READ ENTRIES AND VOTE HERE!!

Voting is open between now and Friday, February 5, 2010 at 5:00 PM … which just happens to coincide nicely with World Nutella Day!

And speaking of World Nutella Day, one of WND’s co-hosts, Michelle Fabio, of Bleeding Espresso just happened to be one of the judges for the 1st annual Blogging from the Boot contest. I’d like to publicly thank Michelle, along with Georgette Jupe of A New Beginning! Bring it On! and Audra de Falco of That Girl in Italy for judging the contest … so, grazie mille, ragazze!

One of the most enjoyable things for me as a co-host of Blogging from the Boot was getting the chance to work with bloggers I didn’t know well. Although like many Italy expat bloggers I “knew” Tina of Tina Tangos, I hadn’t worked with her on blogging projects until now. For any of you considering teaming up with her on projects, I highly recommend it. She’s a gem to work with and I hope we can join forces again in the future.

And to all of the Italy expat bloggers who entered the contest. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You helped make our first annual blogging contest a success, you educated us about private, maternal issues, shared personal wedding and honeymoon stories  and warned us of potential stalkers … and bankers.

Congratulations to all of the finalists and in bocca al lupo!

Vote Now!

Whoa. Stop right there. Don’t hit that back button or double-check the url.

You are in the right place.

Welcome, friends and blog readers to the new My Bella Vita.

It has been a long road, through logo design, color choices, font options, column width and header size and seriously, it is enough to make a girl wrap herself into a fetal position and moan html, html, html until someone snaps her glazed-over eyes into focus and forces her up again.

I mean, I’m just saying … I didn’t do that. Well, maybe once.

But in the end my friends at Kaiz Agency came through and designed a new template we feel will highlight some of the changes we have in store for this website.

Oh yes, my friends … there are changes.

In addition to the funky new logo and what will soon be a photo slide show-small technical delay, slide show’s a comin’, few tweaks, no worries-I’m expanding products and services offered here.

Custom Itineraries

We all know Calabria can be intimidating and a well-traveled Italophile once said, “Calabria is not for the faint-hearted.” But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t come. Calabria has beaches, mountains, ruins and religion, a unique cuisine, good wine and warm people and it is listed as an “Italian favorite” for many people who have visited.

But it is not easy to get around Calabria and researching the area can be tough.

The custom itineraries I offer will help with that.

Based on your preferences, I’ll create a custom itinerary, complete with hotel reservations, transfers, car rental and activities for each day of your trip. You can read more about that here.

Travel Consulting

For travelers who prefer to make their own reservations, but still need recommendations on which areas to visit, what activities to book or which city or location is the best base for their southern Italy vacation, Travel Consulting is the way to go. You can read more about that here.

Tips Booklets

I recently completed my very first tips booklet, “Don’t Get Stuck With Dirty Drawers … and 64 other tips for traveling in Calabria.” More information will be available soon.

—

Prizes and Fun Stuff

In conjunction with this week’s relaunch, I’ve joined forces with other Italophiles around the world to bring you some great prizes.

Check back this week to enter new drawings for prizes such as free nights at a bed and breakfast in Catanzaro, free itinerary planning and free Italy photos!

Today’s prize: A premium subscription to ItalianPod101, the award-winning website that was featured on Newsweek, PC Magazine and right here … at My Bella Vita.

All you have to do is leave a comment on *this* post between Monday, December 7 and Sunday, December 13. Winner will be announced on Monday, December 14.

In bocca al lupo!

Regular readers of this column might have noticed an italicized notation at the bottom of each week’s article directing readers to another website. That website, My Mélange, is owned by travel professional Robin Locker, who has recently expanded her travel services, launched a new website and is offering special deals and giveaways on her products all this week for her relaunch.

I recently sat down with Robin via Skype-and several hours and a few hefty cappuccini later-our interview was complete.

(c) Robin Locker

1. You started My Mélange in 2006 as a way to help others infuse European culture into their lifestyles. How has that evolved into what it is today?

“Initially it started as more of a creative outlet – a way to meet like-minded, creative people who loved to travel and I thought I’d give folks an opportunity for some arm-chair travel. Maybe convince a few people to travel to Europe. While it certainly hit the mark on all of those points (I have met some fabulous friends and colleagues!) it really has become so much more. It really changed my life.

The blog was (and still is) always fun. I never saw it as work. I looked forward to writing and the creative process. With encouragement and advice from some friends, I pursued freelance writing and continue to love that.

There is a famous quote – ‘Find something you love to do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.’ I feel very fortunate to have found many things I love to do!”

2. In addition to freelance writing, travel consulting and offering products through your online Flea Market, what new plans do you have for the new My Mélange?

“Glad you asked! The new site still has a focus on the blog, but it is also a fully functioning website that features all of my travel services, like custom itineraries and foodie adventures for Paris and Italy, carry-on consultations and travel workshops.

And I am very excited about my new photo gallery, where readers can browse my photos and will be able to purchase prints, greeting cards and custom luggage tags, right on the site.

I will still feature guest bloggers who talk about France, Italy and everything related to travel. I have some great interviews and giveaways scheduled – especially during the kick-off week. Make sure you stop by!”

(c) Robin Locker

3. I won’t make you choose between Italy or France-but what is your favorite city or location in each of these countries?

“The best way for me to describe it is this: I love France, but I am in love with Italy-and my favorite place in Italy has to be Tuscany.

Whether people have read an outdated book or embellished travel brochures, they often think that because Italy is a relatively small country, it is easy-and inexpensive-to get from one point to another. And that is not always the case.

In fact, there are so many places I still have yet to discover in the Bel Paese, but I can tell you that I just love the quiet, picturesque small-town charm found in many of the tiny hill towns of Tuscany.

The villages, though small, usually have whatever you need right there- a cafe, a trattoria, a food market, a wine shop and of course a gelateria. And when you are craving the big city- Florence is just a train or bus ride away!”

4. What about in France?

“It has to be Paris! What a fabulously chic and elegant city. It has something for everyone-stunning architecture, world-class art, top quality food, romance around every corner and golden flaky croissants! And the Métro is so clean and efficient, it makes it so easy to get around, regardless of which Paris hotel you choose.”

5. What do you think is the single best thing someone can do to infuse European culture in their lives at home?

“Other than read my blog?! Seriously, I think reading should be at the top of the list. Read books, memoirs, cookbooks, subscribe to blogs, magazines and travel sites on any and all subjects that have to do with the areas that you are passionate about.

From there, you’ll get ideas and find your own inspiration. Even if you pick up one or two new things to try, introduce them slowly so that it won’t seem overwhelming or feel like work- it will just be natural. Over time, you’ll just wake up one day and realize you’re living it!

Buy a new Italian cookbook and try making fresh pasta, learn some of the language with free, on-line programs, find a good market in your area where you can score some authentic products, listen to French music, go to an opera or try a new wine. Have fun experimenting!”

Be sure to visit My Mélange this week for a chance to prizes, such as a Dream of Italy newsletter subscription, Italy Instructions for Use book or photos, like the ones featured above.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio!

Southeast Asia is ripped by a tsunami that killed 230,000 people in 11 countries. Six months later, the Big Easy is flooded by a storm surge that left 80% of the city underwater. Two months later a 7.6 magnitude earthquake attacks Pakistan, killing 80,000 people in Pakistan, Kashmir and Afghanistan.

Coincidence?

No way.

Nearly every reputable scientific study in the world proves that global warming is an international threat and Larry West, About.Com’s Guide to Environmental Issues says that climate change is to blame for at least 150,000 deaths a year.

Read that again.

150,000 deaths a year.

Mind boggling, isn’t it? And sadly, many world travelers just don’t see these stats.

With that in mind, here are seven ways you can help our environment when you travel.

photo credit: MPD01605

Getting There:

1. Offset the Carbon Footprint of Your Flight

Frequent travelers are familiar with the concept of offsetting carbon emissions from their flight by making a donation when their buy their ticket. Travelers departing from San Francisco International Airport can now purchase carbon offsets at kiosks before they board and all passengers can calculate their flight’s carbon footprint by entering flight details at ClimateCare.com.

It really is a small price to pay …

photo credit: jimmyharris

Staying There:

2. Reuse Towels and Sheets

Many travelers think because they are at a hotel or bed and breakfast, they can splurge on fresh towels and daily-changed bed linens. You are paying for it. Why not use it? Right?

However, by reusing your towel for at least two days and asking the B&B not to change your sheets, you are helping reduce electricity and water usage by 50%.

3. Conserve Water

Instead of leaving the water running while you are brushing your teeth, turn it on to lather, turn it off while you brush, then turn it back on to rinse. Dentists recommend you brush for at least two minutes-so that is a lot of wasted water … you know, if you are doing it the dentists’ way.

4. Turn off Lights, ACs, Heaters and Fans

Even at home people leave on their lights or forget to turn off the TV when they leave. Imagine how much you could help the environment if you turned off the lights, your AC or heater, your fan and TV when you leave your hotel for the day.

Chances are you will be sightseeing anyway, do you really need to leave your fan on while you are away?

5. Unplug

Many people don’t realize electrical items consume electricity even when they are off. Crazy, huh? Be sure to unplug your cell phone or laptop charger, hair dryer and straightening iron when you leave your hotel each morning.

photo credit: TheeErin

Around There:

6. Walk When Possible

Ask your hotel or B&B how easy it is to access certain museums and attractions. If possible, walk or take a bike instead of driving. You will see more of the city and help reduce your carbon footprint in the process.

7. Swap or Donate Books or Clothes

You know that book you read on your first flight? Instead of tossing it before you return, why not donate it to your hotel’s library or swap it with a fellow traveler? I’ve also seen travelers toss clothes to make room in their bags. Instead of throwing them in the trash, ask about clothing donation centers and send them there.

What other tips do you have for fighting climate change when you travel?

Over the last few months, My Bella Vita has been washed, scrubbed and dried, and we’ve made a few changes you may not have noticed.

Now we are pulling out the paint.

photo credit: Marshall Astor – Food Pornographer

In the coming weeks we’ll roll out a whole new My Bella Vita-but I need your elbow grease to do it.

You in?

If so, just answer the following five questions-an anonymous survey you can take in 60 seconds or less-and I’ll bring the beer and pizza!

Grazie mille! Feel free to contact me if you have anything else you’d like to say.

I appreciate it.

 
Last week I was surprised-and honored-to be named one of the 15 great new travel blogs over at Inside the Travel Lab. Besides being  flattered that other travel bloggers read My Bella Vita, I’m happy to know that all of my hard work, research and writing is going to good use.
 
So today, I’m passing the torch … here are 15 of my favorite travel blogs, in no particular order, that you are guaranteed to love!
 
- Killing Batteries – Possibly the funniest travel blog I read, Killing Batteries is written by professional travel writer, Leif Pettersen who has penned three guidebooks for Lonely Planet. Read more about him here. I promise. The guy is funny.
 
- Everything Everywhere - Fabulous photos and text by Gary Arndt, who has been traveling the world-and blogging about it-since 2007. But, I’m not the only one who thinks Gary rocks. He has been nominated and/or won more than two dozen travel blog awards in the last two years. Check it out.
 
- Cool Travel Guide – You’ve heard me talk about Lara Dunston’s Cool Travel Guide, but with over 60 countries and 40 guide books (including the newly released Travellers Calabria) to her name, it is well worth the repeat. She is also good for some inside information into less-visited areas around the globe.
 
- Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site – Written by, you guessed it, Matt, this site features weekly photos, travel tips and videos and is a good place to procrastinate your day away … if you are so inclined.
 
- Europe a la Carte – A collaborate blog featuring everything Europe. A fun site to visit if you want to learn about a lot of different places across Europe.
 
- 52 Perfect Days – This site features travel writing, photos and videos from states across the US while helping readers uncover the secret to, you guessed it, a perfect day.
 
- Delicious Baby – As if name wasn’t cute enough, this award-winning blog about traveling with children has spawned two undercover investigations and been featured in Conde Nast Traveler and Frommers. Even if you aren’t a traveling parent, this site is worth a look.
 
- 1002 Things Before I Kick the Bucket – Follow the life of a 20-something dreamer as she sets out to create and tackle her personal bucket list. But I warn you, you’ll want to steal her list …
 
- Europe UpClose – Yet another fabulous blog about traveling in Europe.
 
- Nerd’s Eye View – Fun blog from an eclectic freelance writer and blogger-and ukulele player-who you are guaranteed to fall in love with. This self-proclaimed nerd just finished her second guide book and has been published in a variety of magazines and online outlets.
 
- Fevered Mutterings – Freelance writer and blogger Mike Sowden is boldly going fourth and sharing it all with us.
 
- Indie Travel Podcast – Hosted by Craig and Linda Martin, this site features audio and video podcasts and was awarded first place in Lonely Planet’s Best Podcast category in 2009.
 
- TravelPod – Fun place to go where travelers share stories, write posts and upload videos and photos from recent journeys. This is the perfect site for an armchair traveler.
 
- Almost Fearless – Kick-ass site written by corporate dropout-turned digital vagabond who has traveled to over a dozen countries in the last year. The site is full of articles and tips, as well as a job board for freelance writers.
 
***
 
In addition to these 14 blogs, I always recommend Why Go Italy to my friends and family members who are planning trips to the bel paese and of course, my Travel Tip Tuesday counterpart, My Melange.
 
What are some of your favorite travel blogs? Please share them in the comments
 
Until next time … Buon Viaggio!
 
** Update: I was remiss in forgetting to link to all of my favorite Italy bloggers-they are a wealth of information on the bel paese and I should have known better than to take them granted … hope they’ll forgive me! **