- milepebbles -

2011-01-28T19:17:00.000-05:00

THIS BLOG MOVED HERE

Microfiction Monday.

2011-01-17T10:46:00.002-05:00

... where a picture paints 140 characters, or even fewer. Here's this week's picture, with my own story for it.

Oh yeah, they're going to hear from me; and I will demand my money back: this magic wand should make him disappear, not make me look stupid

Read more interpretations of this image at Stony River

Today I am grateful for laughter.

Song from My Youth

2011-01-17T01:29:00.011-05:00

Yes - Close To The Edge

They don't make music like this anymore. I'm glad I grew up with such good music.

Meaning of the Lyrics from Wikipedia:
In a May 27, 1996 interview with Elizabeth Gips on her show "Changes" (KKUP, Cupertino, CA), transcribed in the "Notes From the Edge" fanzine (issue #0159, August 23, 1996), Jon Anderson mentions, probably not for the first time, that the song—indeed, the whole album—is inspired by Hermann Hesse's book Siddhartha. "[We] did one album called Close to the Edge. [It] was based on the Siddhartha... You always come back down to the river. [You] know, all the rivers come to the same ocean. That was the basic idea. And so we made a really beautiful album[....]"

This explanation can cast the cryptic and mysterious lyrics in a new light, tracking the awakening of Hesse's character "close to the edge" of a river (and, symbolically, of the serial lifetimes of his soul) where he experiences a spiritual awakening. According to that point of view, the lyrics are about how people can seek spiritual illumination, and find a new state of mind, living a whole life. In addition, Anderson was also concerned about how the words sounded, sometimes more than what they meant, creating, thus, verses that often don't seem to mean anything, such as "The time between the notes relates the colour to the scenes".

Musical Monday
Monday's Music Moves Me

Today I am grateful for classic rock

What Can I Say......

2011-01-16T13:21:00.000-05:00

.....I like to watch Caesar while he sleeps.

Pet Pride

Today I am grateful for winter.

Pac-Man Moleskine

2011-01-13T20:53:00.002-05:00

I received it today in the mail: it has a yellow cover and a replica of the Pac-Man game screen de-bossed into it.
Other notebooks in this limited edition feature pixilated imagery that includes Pac-man, ghost characters, and fruit imagery on yellow or black cover.

Yellow Moleskine....wow!

Today I am grateful for hot chocolate with whipped cream.

What's In The Bag?

2011-01-07T21:11:00.001-05:00

Trigger is!!

He is in his new sleeping bag for burrowing. It is sooo super soft, I would go in there if I could.

This was one of the great finds from the thrift store: $5!!!!

Pet Pride

Today I am grateful for long distance phone connection.

Yes! Another Moleskine! Peanuts, This Time.

2011-01-06T21:59:00.000-05:00

Of course I have to share the excitement!
This is a Limited Edition to commemorate 60 years of Peanuts comic strips!

Peanuts Limited Edition Notebooks are available in pocket plain, pocket ruled, large plain and large ruled styles. Beautiful, black and white color scheme starts on the 4 different covers and continues inside with illustrations on the interior pages. The inside back cover has a Peanuts Family Tree that links all the characters together by their relationship, including characters' likes and dislikes. The inside pocket contains stickers with quotes from the characters.

"Peanuts 60th Anniversary" is debossed on the cover.

And the fun continues.

Today I am grateful for relaxing moments.

Blackbird

2011-01-05T19:49:00.001-05:00

I took this picture at the Ocean View Pier, in Norfolk, VA.

THE BEATLES
"Blackbird"

(Lennon/McCartney)

Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these broken wings and learn to fly
All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to arise.

Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these sunken eyes and learn to see
All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to be free.

Blackbird fly Blackbird fly
Into the light of the dark black night.

Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these broken wings and learn to fly
All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to arise
You were only waiting for this moment to arise
You were only waiting for this moment to arise.

Today I am grateful for birds.

Jazz Version of Smells Like Teen Spirit

2011-01-04T15:53:00.000-05:00

I heard this interesting version of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" played on the piano by Leszek Mozdzer.

I enjoyed it!

Posted for Monday's Music Moves Me

Today I am grateful for new music

Microfiction Monday.

2011-01-03T23:09:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Microfiction Monday, where a picture paints 140 characters, or even fewer. Here's this week's picture, with my own story for it

"Cut! No, no, noooo.... You have to be more convincing: we are selling grease, here.

Let's try one more time. A-a-and... ACTION!"

Read more interpretations of this image at Stony River

Today I am grateful for snow days.

My Blog Summary of 2010

2011-01-02T21:20:00.002-05:00

I discovered a fun meme to summarize your blogging year.
The idea is to take the first line of one of each month posts from the past year and see what it tells you about your blogging year.
Here is the list that represents my blog in 2010. To read any post in its entirety, click on the month of the post.

January
I love snow!

February
A toad house

March
I learned how to drive in Italy

April
Presenting....my psychedelic bunny!

May
I noticed a bunny in someone's front yard

June
I came home from work yesterday and immediately saw a bunch of birthday balloons attached to the pet carrier.

September
Weathermen!!!

October
To view as a movie, just scroll down really fast.

November
We arrived in Milan around 8am

December
I know: it takes very little to get me excited.

Today I am grateful for a relaxing day at home.

What's Your Moleskine In?

2011-01-01T12:20:00.001-05:00

Gfeller Casemakers

Today I am grateful for all the things I like.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T21:29:00.002-05:00

Throughout all of 2011...

May you always make the right moves.

May your cup runneth over with love.

May you always find shelter from any storm.

May you remain good looking and looking good!

May you find the perfect diet for your soul.

(If this face doesn't make you want to stop eating sausage, nothing will.)

May you find perfect balance in the company you keep.

May you have as much fun as you can before someone makes you stop.

May the worst thing that happens to you come in slobbery pink and furry tan.

May you manage to make time for siesta.

May all the new folks you meet be interesting and kind.

May your accessories always harmonize with your natural beauty!

Should your mouth be bigger than your stomach, may you have a chewing good time!

May you always know when to walk away and know when to run.

And may your friends always bring you joy!

MAY YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL NEW YEAR
FILLED WITH LOVE, HAPPINESS, AND HOPE.

Camera Critters
Friday Ark

Today I am grateful for another great year.

An Album I'll Always Love

2010-12-29T20:26:00.000-05:00

The Dark Side Of the Moon by the Pink Floyd is, in my opinion, a masterpiece. I can listen to it over and over again, and every time I can find little musical details I never noticed before....

Plus, it always takes me back to a time in my life I like to remember and that's magical!

Push play and listen to The Great Gig In The Sky

Dark Side Of The Moon

Today I am grateful for great music.

Arthur

2010-12-20T12:05:00.010-05:00

As you walk in the pet friendly grooming salon Four On The Floor, you are always welcomed by a couple of cats that patiently wait for any customers to open the door for them, either to go in or come out. They have free range in the shop, and I love that they feel comfortable to sit on the counter next to Theresa, the owner, while she sets an appointment in the book.

It's such a fun place to be: I blogged about this shop a couple of times before, once about the wall decorations and another time about three baby squirrels rescued by Theresa.

As I walked in today, she was sitting on a stool holding the orange tabby, Arthur, like a teddy bear: he amazingly sat still in her lap and I told Theresa how he looked like something from a Hallmark card. She then asked me "do you want to see something funny?", of course I said "yes!". She disappeared in the back for a few minutes and she came out putting Arthur on the counter dressed in a Santa suit.

Theresa explained that he loves it; for some reason I did not agree :-). But apparently he did not mind. She explained that if you place him somewhere and pose him, he will stay, and then she proved it!

What an adorable Arthur!!!!

Merry Christmas from Arthur!!!

Pets Pride

Today I am grateful for different pet's personalities.

One Year Calendar In One Page

2010-12-08T21:40:00.000-05:00

I know: it takes very little to get me excited. Like now, for example; I found this website that allows you to create a free printable calendar including up to 52 weeks per page (letter size).
And you even have room for a brief comment on each day.
I found it here.

I also found this annual calendar/spreadsheet template that lists the days of the month by row in a linear format. It could have so many different uses....

It may be found here.

Aren't they great? I like to be able to view the whole year at once, either for planning or tracking events, appointments, etc.

Today I am grateful for apple pie.

The Drive from Milan to Lecco.

2010-11-30T21:19:00.000-05:00

We arrived in Milan around 8am, and my two cousins Luciana and Enrica were there to pick us up and take us "home". Gilda, of course was also there, she sat on Enrica's lap the entire drive to Lecco (=my hometown on lake Como).

I took some photos as we drove along: the weather was grey, but the view was still beautiful.

Lake of Pusiano

Lago di Pusiano

Odd sculpture in a traffic circle

Familiar mountain and clay roofs

Little paese at the foot of the mountain

Balconies

And my lake: I'm almost home!!!!

My World Tuesday

Today I am grateful for the beautiful lake Como.

Fall Colors From Up There.

2010-11-25T19:51:00.003-05:00

Norfolk, VA.

Flight From Virginia to New Jersey.

Nature Notes

Today I am grateful for a relaxing day and a great meal.

Yet Another (Mini) Moleskine.

2010-11-10T20:59:00.000-05:00

I could not come back from Italy without one of my favorite notebooks.
This is the very new, very little weekly planner for 2011. Measures 2.5" X 4" [6.5cm X 10.5cm.]: perfect size to carry with you everywhere. Hardcover offered in several colors: I chose turquoise.
It even has the tiny pocket inside the back cover!
Viva Moleskine!

Today I am grateful for time spent with family and friends in Italy.

Microfiction Monday.

2010-10-17T22:59:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Microfiction Monday, where a picture paints 140 characters, or even fewer.

Here's this week's picture, with my story for it:

I see water, bread, shovels, and a trident.

All I have to do now is look pitiful until the door is all bricked up.

Then I'll get to work.

Find more interpretations of this image at Stony River.

Today I am grateful for bedtime.

Mini Movie

2010-10-17T21:40:00.001-04:00

To view as a movie, just scroll down really fast.

Camera Critters

Today I am grateful for laughing at Caesar and Trigger.

Canada Geese

2010-10-08T21:14:00.000-04:00

I really like Canada geese.

On my way to work I saw some walking in a field: I had to stop and capture these images.

They now reached the back of Kmart.

Don't you love when they fly in V formation?

Camera Critters

Today I am grateful for compliments on my teeth from my dentist.

Trigger is all "Growed" Up

2010-10-06T22:49:00.001-04:00

His first jump on the futon.

Today I am grateful for puppy Trigger.

Sunny Spot.

2010-10-04T21:13:00.000-04:00

Loki is loving it!

Today I am grateful for my brother going home from the hospital.

Microfiction Monday.

2010-10-03T19:31:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Microfiction Monday,

where a picture paints 140 characters, or even fewer.

Here's this week's picture, followed by my story for it --

I regret the moment Genie granted my wish to get wings:

all I do now is flying from castle to castle so "he" can sow his wild oats.

[131 characters]

Read other interpretations of the image at Stony River

Today I am grateful for having time to do things I enjoy.

The Pond.

2010-09-29T23:29:00.003-04:00

The last time I visited this place, a couple of years ago, this wooden path used to be only one inch higher than the level of the water in the pond. I loved walking there, with water on both sides of the path, and all those trees with their "feet" in the water. Now as you walk, you can see mud and only few pockets of water where tiny creatures try to survive. I hope for a lot of rain to bring it back to the way it was.....

Thirsty Lily

Look at this tree that grew between two boards and now is swallowing some of them.

Nature Notes

Today I am grateful for water.

Driving Through Virginia Countryside

2010-09-27T22:34:00.004-04:00

Portsmouth Tunnel...

...to get to the countryside

Hampton Roads Executive Airport

Cotton Field

Is It A Tower?

Deserted Road

More Fields

Today I am grateful for great weather.

Microfiction Monday

2010-09-27T11:35:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Microfiction Monday,

where a picture paints 140 characters, or even fewer.

Here's this week's picture, followed by my story for it --

"Here Nessie, Nessie, Nessie...... come and cuddle with momma!"

[to the audience]: please forgive this Lock Ness monster: he's a little shy.

Today I am grateful for rain.

Six Words Saturday

2010-09-25T21:14:00.000-04:00

Hey, have you lost your head?

Six Words Saturday

Today I am grateful for the roof over my head.

Wakefield, VA

2010-09-20T21:52:00.002-04:00

I spent this past Friday and Saturday at the agency annual staff retreat in Wakefield, VA, at the Airfield Center.

View Larger Map

I enjoyed capturing some views...

Outdoor Wednesday
Watery Wednesday
My World

Today I am grateful for ponds and the creatures in them.

Microfiction Monday

2010-09-20T16:52:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Microfiction Monday, where a picture paints 140 characters, or even fewer.

Here's this week's picture [painting by Thomas Hart Benton], followed by my story for it --

I am glad there was water in the barrel: I know it's dark but can't you watch where you step? You know we have cows around here...

Today I am grateful for nature smells.

The Incident.

2010-09-19T20:46:00.001-04:00

Every year all the employees of the agency I work for, attend a retreat that takes place in Wakefield, VA, about an hour and a half drive from Norfolk.

We usually carpool and this year was no exception.

I was not driving, so I enjoyed taking pictures.

See Gloria's car in the rearview mirror.

Suddenly one of the wheels of the car I was riding in, decided to go elsewhere and it did.

This is what we saw when we got out of the car.

The wheel rolled and hit Gloria's car behind us and another vehicle too. In the photo below in the background: Shawn is walking to the other vehicle involved in the incident.

Here is the damage to Gloria's car.

Gloria's car.

And a patch of grass caught on fire from sparks of rotor against the road.

Other vehicle hit by Shawn's tire.

We had to wait for tow trucks so, in the meantime, I capture a butterfly posing on Shawn's car.

Today I am grateful because nobody was injured in the incident.

I Love It...

2010-09-19T19:48:00.006-04:00

...when Loki lays this way.

Pet Pride
Camera Critters
Photos of all Fids

Today I am grateful for the fact that my brother feels better.

5 on Friday - Screamers

2010-09-17T19:30:00.005-04:00

5 on Friday

Inception Cat

2010-09-16T19:26:00.001-04:00

Today I am grateful for inception cat.

Spooning.

2010-09-10T19:05:00.003-04:00

Camera Critters

Pet Pride

Photos of all Fids

Today I am grateful for tender moments.

Walking With The Pack

2010-09-08T18:31:00.001-04:00

Today I am grateful for being able to walk with my dogs in the morning.

My Weirdest Pet Peeve

2010-09-07T18:27:00.001-04:00

Weathermen!!!

They act as they were God, "giving" us nice weather for the weekend with their puffed up attitude, or believing we can't be without them if major weather events come up: a newsman could easily inform us of those with no problem.

And they interrupt my favorite shows to tell me what I can see if I looked out of my window....

Who do you think you are????

photo by karola.pineda

Also, suction noises while people kiss on TV is extremely annoying and disgusting: you can just imagine the exchange of saliva taking place there. aaaggggghhh! yuk!

Today I am grateful for another day off from work.

The Name Is Trigger

2010-09-05T21:53:00.001-04:00

...just like the horse

Today I am grateful for Trigger making me laugh

Birthday Gift

2010-06-27T13:33:00.003-04:00

I came home from work yesterday and immediately saw a bunch of birthday balloons attached to the pet carrier. The carrier door was covered by a blanket so I could not understand what was causing the squeaking sound.
So I rushed to open it and there he was: the tiniest dog I have ever seen in person. His legs are shorter than my fingers!!!

And that's how it happened that this unnamed 2 months old little dog entered my life.

Pet Pride

Today I am grateful for this unnamed little dog.

What's My Favorite Summer Memory?

2010-06-25T16:51:00.001-04:00

Definitely a summer vacation spent in Palau, Sardinia, in Italy. Definitely.

That summer I met my husband. But this is not the only reason that made that summer memory my favorite one...I really felt free and happy that year. I think it was the happiest I've ever been.

I even remember being conflicted about going or not going. I finally told myself: I have to go and see why I feel "pulled" there....

And the place is simply gorgeous. Magical.

*sigh*

Today I am grateful for "that" summer vacation in Palau.

View From Up-there

2010-06-20T17:02:00.001-04:00

See the waves along the coastline?

Today I am grateful for air conditioners.

What To Do When You Are Bored On A Plane

2010-06-18T22:26:00.003-04:00

Take a picture of the empty seat while the occupant walks to the lavatory.

Take another picture.

Watch the movie "Cars" on your laptop while comfortably stretched out over two seats.

That's what I did while flying to L.A. to see my daughter.

Yep, I was amazingly lucky to have a free seat next to me....

Photo Story Friday

Today I am grateful for an empty seat next to mine.

While Walking With Loki....

2010-05-16T21:40:00.004-04:00

...I noticed a bunny in someone's front yard [click to enlarge],

and three cool mushrooms in another yard.

Today I am grateful for walks with Loki

See The Toad in the Toad House?

2010-05-01T22:12:00.001-04:00

[click photos to enlarge]

Camera Critters

* Today I am grateful for toads.

Random Dozen

2010-04-28T23:51:00.004-04:00

1. Have you ever been so lost that you were really afraid?

I remember getting lost looking for an address and another time taking the wrong junction on the highway which made me lose one hour of driving, but I did not get scared; I felt frustrated and irritated, and maybe a little worried for the time lost, but I think I like getting lost, I take it as a challenge.
I also remember a couple of times in Venice, Italy, getting lost on purpose walking around the narrow alleys and bridges and eventually arriving to Piazza San Marco: I love that.

2. Have you ever been to an island?

I have been to Sardinia, when I lived in Italy. I went there several times for summer vacations. It's the "magical" place where I met my husband who was stationed there in the Navy.

3. Are you more of a thinker or feeler?

mmhhh...I think [<---- see?] that i start off with feelings but then I put a lot of thoughts into things too. I guess it depends on a situation.

4. Do you tend to see issues or situations in life as black and white or shades of gray?

Mainly shades of gray.

5. If you were stuck on an island, what book would you hope to have with you (Let's pretend the Bible is already there, so you can't say that.)

Probably an art book as I could look at it for a longer period of time. I would prefer a mystery, but once read I would probably wished I took the art book :-)
6. What are you most afraid of?

I am afraid to fly, but lately, with the right medication, I have been a little more comfortable. Also afraid that something happens to my daughter since she lives far away.

7. Would you rather lose all of your old memories or never be able to make new ones?

I think I would like to keep my memories as I am the product of them and I base many decisions on past experiences.

8. Pretend I'm looking at a scrapbook page about you. There are three spaces for you to drop in individual pictures. What are those pictures of, and why did you select them?

My daughter, because I love her and I like to look at her :-); my pets because they make me laugh and they are a huge part of my life; and a picture of me taken few years ago because I really like it.

9. If you were re-doing your wedding, what would you do differently? (If you're single, tell me one thing you would do if you were planning a wedding OR huge party.)

Nothing.

10. Tell me one thing you know/believe about forgiveness.

11. You're waiting in a doctor's office. What is your favorite way to pass that time?

-The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.

If we practice and eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, soon the whole

world will be blind and toothless. [Mahatma Gandhi]

-Forgiveness is not an occasional act. It is a permanent attitude. [Martin Luther King]

-One forgives to the degrees that one loves [Franoice de La Rochefoucauld]

Playing on my iPhone: I doodle, play Mahjong, read a book [kindle for iPhone], etc. I also like to sketch.

12. If there were a clone of you in a parallel universe what is one way you hope she/he would be the same as you and one way you hope she/he would be better?

I wish we had the same right side of the brain, but I would like she was better at maintaining a healthy diet.

Today I am grateful for memories.

5 On Friday

2010-04-17T22:28:00.002-04:00

Here are 5 pieces I chose to celebrate the sun.
I particularly enjoy the live version of Here Comes The Sun played by George Harrison.

Five On Friday

Today I am grateful for the warm sun.

Six Words Saturday

2010-04-17T21:46:00.002-04:00

End of work week today: finally!

Today I am grateful for Saturdays.

Random Dozen

2010-04-06T21:40:00.001-04:00

photo by Declan McCullagh

1. Define a great relationship.
One in which you can be yourself at all times: no acting, no pretending, no lying...

2. Why is it called a "drive-through" if you have to stop? (Real question: What was the last food/drink you purchased at a drive-through?)
Wendy's Spicy Chicken Fillet

3. As I type this, the Butler Bulldogs are getting ready to play in the NCAA championship game. Every Hoosier is hysterical about this except me. So in honor of the Bulldogs ... what is your favorite breed of dog? (I tried.)
Italian Greyhounds, they are sooooo sweet [look at that face in the photo above].

4. If you had to move to a state besides the one you currently live in, where would you move?

Malibu beach

I would move to California where my daughter lives. I also love the weather there and the pace of life.

5. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?
I would have liked to be taught how to be affectionate to my parents: we all know we love each other in my family, but nobody expresses it openly. I find it very hard to do [not to my daughter or husband, though, just my parents].

6. Who's the funniest person you know?
My friend Valerie. I do not know how she comes up with some of the thing that come out of her head.... [read some here]

7. Did you get enough sleep last night?
Yes, but it's never enough: I would sleep everyday until noon...

8. What's the first thing you thought about this morning?
"Is it raining?"

9. Grilled or Fried? --HONESTLY
Depends, I like some fried foods, but not too many. Second on my list would be "baked" and then "grilled".

10. Are you afraid of the dark?
No.

11.When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I never thought about it. Never wished to be something, and I am glad about that!

12. If you had one word to describe yourself , what would you choose?
Tenacious.

Today I am grateful for tenacity.

Microfiction Monday

2010-04-04T23:27:00.005-04:00

Welcome to Microfiction Monday,

where a picture paints 140 characters, or even fewer.

Above is this week's picture, and here's my story:

My agent is going to get it for this.
Hello-o? I am THE Bunny, supposedly the main character,

but here I am carrying around Mr. Chubby.

Today I am grateful for funny movies.

Fave Five

2010-04-02T23:39:00.001-04:00

Thinking back over the past week and remembering 5 favorite things.

1. I took lots of photographs this week, as usual. Sometimes I do it in different situations, like while driving...

...or while walking Loki in the morning.

2. I visited my chiropractor for e regular adjustment and a wonderful massage. These chicks in basket were on the counter:

3. I found the time to visit a friend of mine. This caged fairy sits on her porch.

4. Worked more in my garden; this time Loki was my helper. See him here digging a hole

5. Captured this picture of a walking turtle dove.

Friday's Fave Five is hosted by Susanne at "Living To Tell The Story"

Today I am grateful for spring weather.

5 On Friday

2010-04-01T23:17:00.002-04:00

Below are 5 songs by Jethro Tull, specifically songs that feature some classical music influence along with some folk Irish/celtic flavor. At times it reminds me of medieval music.

#1 is my favorite: a jazzy rearrangement of J. S. Bach's Bourrée in E minor. Ian Anderson plays the flute.

Jethro Tull are a British rock group formed in 1967. Their music is characterised by the lyrics, vocals and flute work of Ian Anderson, who has led the band since its founding, and guitarist Martin Barre, who has been with the band since 1969.
Initially playing blues rock with an experimental flavour, they have also incorporated elements of classical music, folk music, jazz and art rock into their music.

5 on Friday

Today I am grateful for Jethro Tull music.

Psychedelic Bunny

2010-04-01T21:11:00.002-04:00

Presenting....my psychedelic bunny!

I found it at the thrift store and I had to adopt it.

It sits at the front of my house and guards.

It gets along just fine with my flamingos.

Weeeeeee....

visit Yard Art

Today I am grateful for bunnies.

Random Dozen

2010-03-31T21:34:00.003-04:00

1. How do you feel about the marshmallow Easter Peeps?

I absolutely love them.

2. Chickens are notoriously nervous creatures. When you are nervous, what is the best way to calm down?

Take deep breaths and visualize myself at a time beyond the cause of nervousness.

3. People say, "April showers bring May flowers." Do you enjoy Spring rains?

Yes, I enjoy everything the weather brings, except hurricanes and tornados.

4. When I was randomly flipping through TV channels this week, I saw a show in which tattoo parlor employees received tattoos of a co-worker's face on their bodies. I can't imagine having a portrait of a colleague tattooed on me. But if someone forced you to receive a portrait tattoo (face only) of anyone, who would it be? Why?

Probably of my dog Loki, but if it has to be a person, I'd choose my daughter's face. I would choose Loki's first because I do not like people's faces as tattoos [I don't like tattoos on me at all], and I chose my daughter because I love her forever :-)

5. Would you rather have a tattoo (any kind) or a nose ring?

Neither. But if I really had to choose, it would be a tiny hidden tattoo.

6. Do you have any special plans for Easter?
No.

7. Cadbury Eggs or Reese Eggs?

Cadbury Eggs, and only the original ones.

8. What was the last thing/person you took a picture of?

Here it is:

9. What book are you reading now, or what was the last one?

Run For Your Life - James Patterson

10. What do you think is the most difficult task when it comes to Spring cleaning?

Cleaning rugs/carpets.11. How many pairs of flip-flops do you own?

Zero

12. Which color makes you happiest?

Turquoise.

Today I am grateful for peeps.

Microfiction Monday

2010-03-28T18:29:00.009-04:00

Welcome to Microfiction Monday,

where a picture paints 140 characters, or even fewer.

Above is this week's picture, and here's my story:

Mildred, don't look now, but to my left a bunch of people are watching us, trying to figure out what we're doing.
Funny uh? Act suspiciously!

Today I am grateful for having two bathrooms [one is broken]

Fave Five

2010-03-27T22:23:00.001-04:00

Thinking back over the past week and remembering 5 favorite things.

1. I spent some time working in my garden and Caesar helped me out a bit.

2. Took several pictures with my "big" camera.

3. I enjoy playing Farmville on the computer, and the latest addition is a baby horse.

4. I enjoy talking to my daughter on the phone [she lives far away].

5. I found this beautiful bag posted on Jessica Hills' blog [http://thehillsarelivin.blogspot.com/] and the instructions for making it here.

Friday's Fave Five is hosted by Susanne at "Living To Tell The Story"

Today I am grateful for good music.

Easter Memories

2010-03-25T23:10:00.005-04:00

The Easter bunny was not part of my Easter family celebration when I was little.
I grew up in Italy. Easter in Italian is “Pasqua", and it is the second most important religious holiday after Christmas. Of course, because Italy is such an overwhelmingly Catholic country, the holiday is all about the remembrance of the passion of Christ. I attended many of processions and church events throughout my youth.

Easter for Italians has the same importance that Thanksgiving Day has for Americans. And the Monday following Easter is equally important and a nationwide holiday as well.

Chocolate bunnies are not common, [no Easter bunnies there] but beautifully decorated chocolate eggs are a traditional Easter treat and gift! Everybody gets an egg for their dear ones, even those who do not celebrate Easter religiously. They are so fancy looking with the foiled wrapping, see?

Inside each egg is hidden a small gift. Or not so small, depending on how luxurious [and expensive] the egg is!

I can still remember the excitement on Easter day when, as an impatient little girl, I was finally allowed to open the egg after the family Easter meal. The best thing was "knocking" on the top of the egg to make a hole that allowed my hand to reach in for the surprise!

I also remember decorating chicken eggs, but I wasn't much into that.
I preferred the chocolate eggs with the surprise.

FlashBack Friday

Today I am grateful for Swiss chocolate.

Microfiction Monday

2010-03-23T21:38:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Microfiction Monday,

where a picture paints 140 characters, or even fewer.

Above is this week's picture, and here's my story:

May 1918.
I told myself: I would not join the navy even if I could.
But she surely looks cute in that top: I would not mind having one.

Today I am grateful for imagination.

Stretching Time

2010-03-21T21:08:00.000-04:00

I love it when Loki stretches this way: he makes me laugh.

Camera Critters.

Today I am grateful for some time in my garden today.

Fave Five

2010-03-19T21:00:00.001-04:00

Thinking back over the past week and remembering 5 favorite things.

1. Walking every morning with Loki and enjoying all the spring signs in people's gardens.

[nest with a long green string in it]

2. A visit to the dentist and being complimented by him for doing a good job with teeth cleaning [I felt like a good little girl :-)].

3. The dentist appointment gave me half a day off from work: I just relaxed and spent some time on my computer. Heaven!

4. Made some progress in re-organizing a spare room.

5. Visited a friend.

Friday's Fave Five is hosted by Susanne at "Living To Tell The Story"

Today I am grateful for memes.

An Actual Craigslist Ad

2010-03-17T14:41:00.000-04:00

I have bushes in my back yard that I want gone, and I have some that I just need cut down to a smaller size. There are maybe 3 or 4 I'd like gone, though. So, if you have a pair of those big tree scissor things and a hedge trimmer saw thingy.....I need your help before spring gets out of control and my back yard looks like the Congo.

Please....no drunk people. No people that want to take all my cigarettes. No people on the National Sex Offender web site. No homeless people. No crazies.

Random Dozen

2010-03-16T23:37:00.002-04:00

1. On a scale of 1-10, how superstitious are you, honestly?
I think I am a 3, there is still that ladder I cannot walk under....

2. Julius Caesar is quoted as saying, "I came, I saw, I conquered." Which circumstance or experience of yours does this saying best describe?
As a young girl I always dreamed to visit the USA. I loved learning the English language and tried to translate all the Beatles' song as I was growing up. I ended up marrying and American service man, moved to the USA where I did not know anybody but my husband. Since I moved here I did meet several people, made some good friends [and some bad ones too]; I enjoy life and my family. I came, I saw, I conquered.

3. If I peeked in on your day like a mischievous little leprechaun, at what time would I most likely find you blogging? after 7pm.

4. Re springing forward for Daylight Saving Time, is there anything you've ever been really early or really late for? I cannot think of anything.

5. What are you most looking forward to concerning Spring? flowers in my garden and re-birth of nature in general, opening the windows for fresh air, longer days.

6. Shamrocks are the national flower of Ireland and are picked on St. Patrick's Day and worn on the lapel or shoulder. Do you wear green on St. Patty's Day? No.

7. One of Caesar's assassins, Casca, said, "But, for my own part, it was Greek to me," which of course means he didn't understand something. Probably his own lines in the play. Anyway, what is something that is "Greek to you," something incomprehensible or indecipherable? Wall Street stuff. What are those people always screaming at while holding pieces of paper?

8. Is March behaving more like a lion or a lamb where you live? mmhh.. how about a lion with a lamb coat?

9. "An extra yawn one morning in the springtime, an extra snooze one night in the autumn is all that we ask in return for dazzling gifts. We borrow an hour one night in April; we pay it back with golden interest five months later." -Winston Churchill. If you had one extra hour per day every day, what would you do with it? Take photographs or paint art.

10. Legend says that every Leprechaun has a pot of gold hidden deep in the Irish countryside. Aside from real gold or money, what material item would be in your dream pot of gold? fountain pens, pencils, moleskines notebooks. Oh, and Nutella!

11. "The best things are nearest: breath in your nostrils, light in your eyes, flowers at your feet, duties at your hand, the path of God just before you." Robert Louis Stevenson. Look around you right now and tell us about something essential or beautiful very near you that you take for granted every day. Electricity.

12. Just for a bit o' fun, click here (www.blogthings.com/irishnamegenerator/) and then report your Irish name. Niamh Malone

Random Dozen Meme by Linda

Today I am grateful for electricity.

Lecco, Italy

2010-03-16T05:51:00.002-04:00

This is a view of lake Como from my hometown.
Lecco is in northern Italy, 45 minutes away from Switzerland [by car] and 45 minutes away from Milan.

Today I am grateful for mountains and lakes.

4 Wheeled Marina

2010-03-15T15:51:00.000-04:00

I learned how to drive in Italy and it was not until I was almost 20 years old. I was not very interested in learning how to drive automobiles, as I enjoyed my scooter too much!
I dedicated a whole post [Wheeled Marina] to my history on less-than-4 wheels.

In Italy automatic transmission cars were not common [still aren't], so I think it's a little more difficult to learn how to drive there, especially considering the size of the roads, and the numerous bikes and mopeds you have to pass constantly. Furthermore, to obtain a driver's license you also get tested on your knowledge of the engine. Yes!!!! It's almost as bad as studying civics.

I took driving classes at a registered Driving School. The instructor had pedals [just like a driver] in the passenger seat for protection hahaha. Thank goodness my instructor was a woman....

My first car was a Mini Minor [yes, they have been around that long!], my dad helped me pay for it, it was a pre-owned one, though, so it was not that expensive. I loved it: it was so cute!

Today I am grateful for all the cars I was able to own in my life.

My Favorite Fountain Pen [today]

2010-03-11T23:05:00.001-05:00

Namiki/Pilot Vanishing Point Fountain Pen

Click and the point retracts, just like a ball point pen. Amazing! I love it!! And it writes so well and smoothly...

Today I am grateful for fountain pens.

Missing Dog Turns Up 600 Miles From Home

2010-03-05T11:54:00.000-05:00

Sharing a great story from msnbc.com

Deacon the German shepherd survived journey from Virginia to Florida

About two weeks before Christmas, Deacon, an 85-pound German shepherd, went missing from his family home in rural Stuart, Va.

During the first couple of days, Pamela Holt, her husband Keith, and their daughter Brooklyn, 3, weren't terribly worried because they figured their nearly 2-year-old pet was running in the fields behind their home.

"We have a lot of land and thought Deacon might be enjoying the outdoors," Holt, who works as a teller for SunTrust bank, tells PEOPLEPets.com. "But we soon got worried and called the area dog warden, the pound and the sheriff's office. After two weeks, we gave up, fearing he had died or was stolen."

Deacon, a gift from Holt to her husband Keith, a teacher and football coach, had become a beloved family member, and everyone was upset. But a curious call in late February from a man in Deland, Fla., changed everything.

"A male voice on the other end said he thought he may have Deacon," Holt tells PEOPLEPets.com. "I was angry at first and thought he was a prankster trying to play a joke on us ... I nearly hung up on him."

The man, who said he was from Animal Control in Deland, told Holt he was looking at her dog. Holt said she thought Deacon was dead. But when he asked her if the dog's name was Bruno, Holt went crazy with joy.

"I was speechless," she says. "The dog was originally called Bruno when he was micro chipped, so I knew this was not a hoax. When the man emailed me a picture, and I knew it was Deacon, I called my husband. We were so thrilled that we drove 10 hours to Florida to pick him up."

The Holts believe Deacon was stolen by people who had hoped to breed him, but they were unaware that he had been fixed so it was a waste of time. And somehow, the dog ended up in the Sunshine State for the holidays.

"Deacon was in a pen with another dog when he saw us," Holt recalls. "He trampled the poor thing to get to us. He ran to my husband and jumped on him. He was so excited."

The following day, when they got back to Virginia after the 600 mile drive, Deacon ran directly over to the outside window of Brooklyn's bedroom, hoping to see her.

"He cried and cried until she got home," Holt says. "Once he saw her, he was so happy!"

Even though there is no leash law in their area, the family has vowed to tie their dog in the yard so nothing ever happens again.

"We are blessed to have Deacon back," Holt says. "And will do what we must to keep him safe and sound."

View more photos of animals at Friday Ark and Camera Critters.

Today I am grateful for great happy ending stories.

Garden Fun

2010-02-22T14:00:00.001-05:00

Showing are few items you may find in my garden:
a toad house
a gnome [of course]
a pot with a face
a bobbing flamingo
a ceramic chicken
and an iron chair with a shallow vase of succulent instead of the pad.

Visit Mosaic Monday to view more photo mosaics.

Today I am grateful for treasures in the garden

Finally, Lots Of Snow.

2010-01-31T21:46:00.000-05:00

I love snow!

Here are few images captured outside my house.

[click photo to enlarge]

Visit Mosaic Monday to view more photo mosaics.

Today I am grateful for snow.

Mermaids Parade

2010-01-25T15:20:00.002-05:00

The Mermaid is the official logo of the city of Norfolk, Virginia.

It symbolizes 300 years of maritime and naval heritage.

More than 100 unique mermaid statues have been made in the past 10 years to represent Norfolk around town.

"The mermaids reflect nautical and Norfolk themes, civic pride, the diversity of the region, or whatever else artists and sponsors dream up; for example, a mermaid covered in coins is sponsored by a bank, a mermaid sporting a chef's hat and apron sits in front of a bakery." from Mermaids on Parade website

Here are few that I have captured around town.

[click image to enlarge]

Official Mermaids photo gallery

Visit Mosaic Monday to view more photo mosaics.

Today I am grateful for mermaid fun.

Why It’s Healthy to Cry!

2010-01-21T10:19:00.001-05:00

Have you ever curled up on the couch with a blanket and a box of tissues to watch a favorite tear-jerker, perhaps after a particularly nasty break-up? Romeo and Juliet, Titanic, Wuthering Heights, Brian’s Song(even guys shed a tear watching that one!) – any one of those or a hundred others can bring out the tissue box.

So why do we do it? Why do we purposefully seek out situations that make us cry? And what about crying in general? Is it really good for you? Can a good cry really make us feel better?

There are actually three different types of tears.

• Reflex tears are produced in response to an irritant (i.e., smoke, onions, a bug getting into your eye, etc.).

• Continuous tears lubricate your eyes to keep them from drying out.

• Emotional tears are produced in response to any number of situations, including frustration, sadness, anger, relief, pain and even joy.

William Frey II, a biochemist at the St. Paul-Ramsey Medical Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, discovered that there is a significant increase in the types and amount of stress hormones released in emotional tears. Stress hormones can damage brain cells and negatively affect nearly every organ and system in the human body. Frey’s research seems to indicate that tears serve a definite purpose by eliminating harmful stress hormones (toxins). Interestingly enough, research has also discovered that those who suffer from stress-related conditions, such as ulcers and colitis, frown on the idea of shedding tears.

How miraculous our human bodies are! It’s amazing that so many people still look down on a body function that is intended to eliminate stress hormones that are responsible for virtually every stress-related illness. Now, is it really any wonder that you feel so much better after a good cry?

from Coastal Chiropractic newsletter

Today I am grateful for tears

Spoonbill

2010-01-19T11:15:00.001-05:00

Today's Bing photo was of a Roseate Spoonbill: look how beautiful!!!

They have large, flat, spatulate bills and feed by wading through shallow water, sweeping the partly-opened bill from side to side. The moment any small aquatic creature touches the inside of the bill—an insect, crustacean, or tiny fish—it is snapped shut.

More photos here

Today I am grateful for pink birds.

USS Wisconsin

2010-01-18T22:57:00.002-05:00

Looking down Plume Street from the intersection with Granby Street, this is what you see:

at the very end you can see the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy.
It is berthed at Nauticus, a contemporary museum that uses the natural setting of Norfolk's harbor to showcase global maritime commerce and the world's largest Navy.

AT the same intersection, if you turn around, this is what you see:

Two of the many Norfolk mermaids: on the left "Miss Definitely Downtown" and on the right "Miss Gem of the Sea".

Today I am grateful for funny movies that make me laugh.

Pink Link 21

2010-01-15T20:38:00.001-05:00

This big pink truck passed me on my way to work and I HAD to take its picture.

Today I am grateful for being able to relax when I get home

Digging Robins

2010-01-10T22:03:00.001-05:00

[click photo to enlarge]

As I was approaching my friend Valerie's house, I could see leaves jumping up in the air right at the foot of a tree in her front yard. It was actually funny: it seemed as jumping beans were under the leaves piled against the tree.
I parked my car and finally noticed a group of robins having a ball digging for worms. As you can see, it was not easy to detect them until you really looked for them.
They were so into it, I was able to take these pictures without scaring them away...

Visit Mosaic Monday to view more photo mosaics.

Today I am grateful for witnessing fun nature scenes.

While Driving 2

2010-01-05T23:27:00.002-05:00

Below are some photos of downtown Norfolk, VA that I took while driving.

I love these "ghost" signs.

Granby Street

The Harrison Opera House

Today I am grateful for being able to enjoy little things.

Good Bye 2009

2009-12-31T23:18:00.001-05:00

So let's see if I can summarize my year in few sentences.
First of all I want to say that I am glad there are not too many extremely exciting events to report. How strange that this would have bothered me few years ago, instead now I am so grateful ....
So, here it goes.

I took my yearly trip to Los Angeles to visit my daughter in May, and spent a little time with my brother when he came to see me in October. I lost a pet when Oreo went to doggie heaven.
I underwent two mammograms and two MRI's. I also regularly visited a dentist office and a chiropractor. I celebrated another birthday. I consumed a lot of Good & Plenty. I tried to regularly find time to swim at the gym. I went to the wedding of my daughter's friend.
I gained an iPhone and a Nikon D5000. Made lots of phone calls to my mom in Italy.
I get regular visits from an opossum, various caterpillars, and birds. And I got to tickle a squirrel's belly.
More Moleskines were added to my collection, I sketched and doodled, drew and painted all throughout the year. I also blogged a lot, uploaded photos to flickr, and played on facebook. I also worked a lot and enjoyed it.
Overall....
Today I am grateful for another good year.

Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown!

2009-12-22T22:26:00.006-05:00

We usually decorate our white Christmas tree, but this year I wanted to go pink. So, here it it, it's tiny [3.5"], it's pretty, it's pink!

Photo taken with flash:

No flash:

I love my little pink tree....

Today I am grateful for Stephanie coming home.

Ode To Oreo

2009-12-13T20:36:00.000-05:00

Good bye, little Oreo

1996 - 2009

(12-7-09)

Visit Mosaic Monday to view more photo mosaics.

Today I am grateful for having shared 13 years of my life with Oreo.

It's Not a Fox...

2009-12-11T19:58:00.004-05:00

.....it's my sweet dog Loki!!!

View more photos of animals at Friday Ark and Camera Critters.

Today I am grateful for having Loki in my life.

While Driving

2009-12-07T10:09:00.003-05:00

I know, I should not take pictures while driving, but, what can I say, I enjoy doing it.

I must say, though, that I do not look at the camera to frame the photo: I just point and click.

And then, later, I review them: if the photo is bad I delete it, if it's good enough for me.....good!

Pictured above are 4 photos taken on my way to Ocean View in Norfolk. That area is in continuous re-development, so when driving along one may see beautiful newly built homes and still some of the old apartment buildings and houses that have not been replaced yet.

That kitschy hand-made swing set was in front of one of these old houses. It's too funny, I had to capture it.

The top left photo shows some of those new beach houses.

The bottom photos show the road that runs next to the Norfolk Botanical Gardens.

View more photo mosaics at Monday Mosaic

Today I am grateful for moments holding Oreo.

Sleeping Caesar

2009-11-29T20:03:00.005-05:00

Caesar is the epitome of relaxing.

View more photo mosaics at Mosaic Monday

Today I am grateful for the joy my pets give me.

Shrooms

2009-11-25T23:11:00.004-05:00

Cute little mushrooms captured just this week!

See more nature notes at Rambling Woods

Today I am grateful for the smells of nature.

Hot And Not So Hot Pink

2009-11-23T09:21:00.002-05:00

My first attempt at making a photo mosaic. I gathered photos of my garden in the spring and summer.

View more mosaics at Mosaic Monday

Today I am grateful for colors.

Feeding Time 2

2009-11-20T16:25:00.006-05:00

On my way to work, while at a red traffic light, I observed this crow flying up to the electric cable with a piece of bread. He held the bread with his foot and nibbled at it.

I love crows.

Later, at Wal Mart these birds helped themselves with some seed.....

Cute!

See/read about more animals adventures at Friday Ark and

Today I am grateful for Matt who gave me a big loaf of bread I keep in the car for the birds.

Another Furry Thing

2009-11-13T23:14:00.004-05:00

It's a caterpillar.

Unfortunately I could only capture it in a coil.

Ecpantheria scribonia, larva [?]

More photos at Friday Ark.

Today I am grateful for the nor'easter eing over.

November Nor’easter

2009-11-12T10:06:00.009-05:00

"Heavy rain and very windy conditions…especially near the coast. While inland winds will barely reach 30 mph, winds along the coast could easily gust between 45-50 mph for several days.

Wind and rain are combining with high tide cycles to cause coastal flooding along the Virginia coast. Beach Cam shows the storm in progress".

That was the forecast.

Even though the wind is strong, luckily I am not experiencing flooding around my house, as shown in the four photos below

I do, however, have a wet dog, as he seems to like this weather and keeps wanting to go outside.

I took the following photos from the computer where people in the community uploaded their views:

Today I am grateful for my home.

Furry

2009-11-07T19:31:00.008-05:00

As I walked to my car, this morning, I noticed this furry creature scurrying across my driveway: he seemed so busy and determined. I had to pull out my camera.

Which is the front?

Dasychira obliquata, larva or

Halisydota tessellaris

See more interesting creatures at Friday Ark

Today I am grateful for the love of my pets.

Just Because It's Halloween....

2009-10-31T19:38:00.008-04:00

...I thought I posted these photos.

They are about a large spider that built its home-web right outside my front door.

Near my front door there is also a wasp nest, so this spider probably guessed it would get lucky with capturing some "goodies".

Here is one wasp caught into the web. Spider approaches.

and begins its "spooling".

This is the underbelly: really spooky.

This photo even shows a ghost in the background.

Very Halloweeny, uh?

Today I am grateful for little creatures.