ITALIAN SECRETS…….

February 6, 2017 135 Comments

THANK YOU ALL so much who COMMENTED and or EMAILED me with IDEAS, about MY FUTURE and what you would like to SEE HERE ON MY BLOG!

YOU ALL MADE ME SMILE………..

I need to smile MORE so I THANK YOU!

I have been in THE GARDEN pruning but THE RAIN has not allowed me to finish………..NOT COMPLAINING just saying…………..

I start to panic if it is not done by FEBRUARY.I still have time…….I just dislike pruning off THAT new growth!

BUT I DO!

WE have a few oak trees that surround us.

That DEAD branch above my head reminds me of a LIGHTENING STREAK!

THAT is THE KITCHEN.

Should I plant that URN or LEAVE IT BE?

I know the answer but am curious as to what YOU would DO!

YOGA THEODORE

SOUND ASLEEP.

He spends MOST nights OUT on the prowl then ends up sleeping by DAY!

PLEASE MOM NO LIGHT!

CATHERINE, he LOVES your CASHMERE !

YOU MY LOVELY READERS MAY ENJOY TOO!

IT COMES FROM ENGLAND!

CLICK HERE

SO I named this POST ITALIAN SECRETS……..as I wanted to share some of the HINTS THE ITALIAN has passed on to me over the last 32 years.

ONE.

ALWAYS put ROCK SALT in your pasta water when you boil it!Not one tablespoon or TWO a palm amount.

You can taste the pasta while it cooks and add MORE if need be.You cannot take the salt away so start with the palm covered and go from there.

I will show you a photo or TWO!

YES!

JUST TRUST ME!

TWO.

HAVE EVERY ONE AT THE TABLE when YOU serve the pasta!Pasta isNOT meant to be served lukewarm or cold!I never ate a PASTA SALAD whilst I lived in ITALY!

THREE.

Dress the pasta with olive oil or BUTTER.Before you apply the sauce.The right words are not forming but certain sauces will take Butter and others Olive oil.I do not know how to tell you which will take which, but PESTO takes Olive Oil.RAGU takes BUTTER.

FOUR.

NEVER PUT CHEESE ON FISH PASTA!

NEVER!!!

THAT IS A NO NO.

FIVE.

In ITALY if the cook wants the PARMESAN on the pasta he will offer otherwise,it is considered RUDE to add PARMESAN cheese to your PASTA!The CHEESE has a strong FLAVOR what you are doing in fact is covering up the taste of the PASTA SAUCE!

SIX.

NEVER GO OUTSIDE WITH WET HAIR!Italian fact you will get a COLD.

!!!Alternative Fact?!!!

SEVEN.

NO CAPPUCCINO’s after 11 AM!Milk is for morning use only!

(I do not follow this rule because my TUMMY needs the MILK!)

EIGHT.

NO BREAD WITH PASTA!

EVER!

Theory here…….bread is a filler.DO not eat bread with PASTA or you will not be able to finish your Second course if you load up on BREAD!That is a waste of FOOD and the CHEFS TIME!Bread is to be offered if you cooked for 4 and two more show up to FEAST!!!

WE AMERICANS TEND TO FILL UP ON BREAD.

DON’T WE?

Speaking of BREAD.

NINE.

ITALIANS doNOT Butter Bread!

It is used to clean the plate at the end of a MEAL.

Any left over juices swimming around in the plate will get a GOOD SWIPE with a small piece of BREAD!

TEN.

OLIVE OIL and VINEGAR on the table with the BREAD for dipping.

THAT’S A NEGATIVE TOO!

I think that is ENOUGH TIPS for TODAY!

I might turn YOU ALL INTO ITALIANS!

THEN THE WORLD WOULD BE A HAPPY PLACE!

NOT a BAD IDEA!

Let me share a story about traveling with my two small SONS.I was headed to ITALY without THE ITALIAN.I think we had two seats for three of us because NICHOLAS was small…….well,he was over 10 pounds at BIRTH so NEVER SMALL!

I had TWO LADIES from SAN FRANCISCO sitting in front of us.They both LOOKED AT EACH OTHER AND ROLLED THEIR EYES.

AS if this would be a HORRENDOUS TRIP!

Two small kids.

Of course that made me even MORE NERVOUS!

SINGLE PARENT

13 hour flight.

You get my DRIFT!

Then on the RETURN FLIGHT out of ROME!

I had TWO ROMAN BUSINESS MEN in SUITS.

ARGUING over who would HOLD THE BABY!!!!

They couldn’t have been MORE GRACIOUS and HELPFUL to a MOM traveling SOLO!

On that TRIP I realized what AMERICA was missing!

THAT was a LONG TIME AGO.

WE were TOO BUSY .

WE as a society had forgotten the MOST important things

IN LIFE.

Children & Aging Parents.

But lets save that TOPIC for another DAY!

VALENTINES DAY

is upon us….

WILL YOU WEAR RED?

This is our garage.

YES,

HIS PRESENTATION Is ALWAYS THE BEST!!

This is where I park my CAR and he has a string with a DOG DONUT hanging so I do not BUMP HIS CABINETS!

On our ANNIVERSARY last year this is what I DROVE INTO.

I didNOT have TO TEACH HIM this trade of ROMANCE.

HE was BORN with it!

I know HE is RARE.

VERY RARE this ITALIAN who MY MOTHER PICKED FOR ME!

To those of you with young SONS………

TEACH THEM THE ELEMENT OF SURPRISE!

IT IS A WONDERFUL LIFE

when thought and CARE go into a GIFT of LOVE.

I can honestly say it is

MAGICAL!

XOXO

PS.MY SONS enjoyed the 13 hour airplane trip without a SHOUT or BOO HOO!

SO, my guess is those TWO WOMEN did TOO!!!!!

135 Comments

Leave your reply.

Ellie's friend from Canada
· Reply

February 8, 2017 at 4:07 AM

Hi Contessa!

How much joy your most recent story gave me! I am lying here in the middle of the night with a ruptured disc unable to walk, or try out bread recipes, and literally feeling miserable! Along comes your blog and life seems infinitely better! Since we just had 2 feet of snow, I am not going anywhere right now anyway!

Life is so strange. Over Christmas, I wrote a children’s book called “Scottie Tails” (not published!)about my mother’s scottie and now I read Debbie Squires’s lovely post and about her children’s books which I can hardly wait to read.

I shop at an upscale store for the meat and cheese. Every 2 or 3 months, a lovely Italian man comes to demonstrate the wonderful olive oil he makes in Italy. He told me that every morning I should take a tablespoon of his olive oil straight! Has THE Italian said anything similar? The signor always serves his samples of the oil with a little bread, olive oil and some of his balsamic vinegar. I love eating olive oil on lovely bread. He races over and gives me a big hug each time he sees me! Like one of your commenters above, I was taught that it is not polite to use your bread to “sop” up the juices on the plate. How glad I was then to find that it is perfectly acceptable in some cultures to do just that!!! I always put olive oil on my pasta. That way the strands do not stick together like concrete either on the plate or after consumption! I sometimes think the secret of Italians not gaining weight from their pasta is it is slippery from the olive oil and doesn’t linger!

I love to wear red. Again, it is strange that just this evening my friend phoned me and mentioned my red shoes that long ago I wore to a party where there was a game to put all the shoes in a pile and then a race to find and recover one’s shoes. My friend laughed and said, “do you remember you won because you wore red shoes?”. I said, the same red shoes are in the hallway tonight! She said she remembered me from 30 years ago when “you were so elegant”! (It is a compliment not a damnation as now I just don’t dress up anymore). I had to laugh because I don’t think of myself like that at all –– I remember the clothes she was describing (they are in the basement, still) but I think of myself as a dishevelled, tomboy character with a penchant for elegant red shoes! My mother tried to appropriate those shoes for herself but I clung to them. (I have to admit I went back to the store to get her a pair but had no luck so I didn’t give them to her but lent them. She rivalled Imelda Marcos in her passion for fine shoes!)

The best meal I ever had was cooked by an Italian nun. This is when I learned that pasta is a first course and is to be served hot! Some other people (higher ups in the Catholic church) were late for dinner. The nun smiled at them when at their table but when she turned her back to go to the kitchen, she was muttering very strong curse words under her breath as she passed our table to reach the kitchen. The clerics knew they had committed a grievous sin but they were the ones with power. My friend explained to me what the problem was! When the nun’s pasta was served, one understood the gravity of their sin! Not a moment was wasted getting pasta to the tables. It was so delicious! And hot! It was followed by a thick veal chop, perfectly done. Homemade wine. There was a plate of vegetables. A cheesecake for dessert. But what I loved and had was fruit grown in the garden. Huge, luscious grapes. Course by course we lingered over dinner and visited and greatly enjoyed the food. Your comments about pasta needing to be served right away while warm brings back the memory (some eons ago) of the perfect meal and how we smiled at the nun’s clandestine swearing. It gave me a perfect understanding of Chaucer’s pilgrims and the satire with which he portrayed them. How he would have loved to portray this nun and the cleric nemeses, enemies to her pasta!
ti abbraccio!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:39 AM
  
  SO SORRY TO HEAR you are still DOWN………THE BACK is a needed ACCESSORY!
  NO, THE ITALIAN does not take a SPOON FULL of OLIVE OIL da SOLO but he gets enough in other ways!They do say the oil is the reason THE ITALIANS have great long lives and skin!
  Love the RED SHOE GAME…………………….reminds me of THE KNEE GAME!FIND YOUR HUSBANDS KNEES………….maybe I will write about THAT NEXT!
  AS for THE NUN…………believe ME I CAN SEE IT!One CANNOT BE LATE FOR LA PASTA!
  I look forward to reading her books………………AND YOURS TOO!XX
janina
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 11:22 PM

I remember being told a lot of those Italian secrets by my mother, many times. Some finally sank into my brain! She certainly had some fiery Italian blood in her veins on her father’s side. She could be a handful, but always made you feel welcome at table.
That dipping oil for bread was a thing here too, but thankfully you don’t see it anymore. I never used it.
Cooking pasta with a touch of oil in the water keeps the pasta unstuck too.
I notice you have chandeliers outside too. Does it light up at night? And where the urn is looks like it is actually a birdbath, which is how I would keep and use it. Luv seeing birds having fun in the bath, such joy! Occasionally I will put out my makeshift birdbath onto my balcony floor, especially if it’s really hot. The bath is a very wide and deep terracotta planter saucer. The birds love it.
Your Italian is a keeper. Not all of them are so good!
Ciao, bella.
- Penelope Bianchi
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 11:32 PM
  
  Fun comment! That urn is way too deep for a birdbath! Isn’t it? they like a very shallow……place to take a bath!
  
  I say…keep the urn empty in the winter….and plant something fun in it in the spring! blooming!
  I am ecstatic here! The bird with the nest in the purse is back for the third year with her mate! (You saw her!!!) And (I am thrilled beyond) a hummingbird is making a nest on the loggia!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:33 AM
  
  THE BIG CHANDELIER was GIFTED to ME……..well I was suppose to SELL it in my shop and somehow it STOPPED HERE!YES, IT LIGHTS UP for those SUMMER BIRTHDAY SOIREE’s I have………those white caps are to keep the water OUT!SO, it can LOOK BETTER!IF you GO BACK to JULY POSTS…….YOU will see it in ACTION!!!XX
RebeccaNYC
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 9:41 PM

I love when I learn something new! I had no idea about the amount of salt in the pasta water! Not that I’m eating pasta these days…I have 50lbs to lose, after all….but good to know, and I will be filing that away for future reference! And they use bread about the same way in France, I have noticed. Even though it is there for every meal, one eats very little of it! You are an educational DIVA!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:29 AM
  
  YOU CANNOT LOSE 50 POUNDS!!!!!!!!!!
  YOU NEED THAT FOR YOUR VOICE and the COSTUMES……………..
  Are you planning your get away to France this summer?Do you follow COREY AMARO blog called TONGUE IN CHEEK?CAlifornia GAL married to a FRENCHMAN.They have a delightful apt in the 14th in PARIS and now have one in CASIS………..I have stayed in the PARIS APARTMENT……………………..DIVINE!XX
- RebeccaNYC
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 8:02 PM
  
  oh, yes I CAN lose 50 lbs, and I WILL! I can’t stand it anymore…and they will adjust my costumes accordingly, never you worry. And of course I read Corey! Her blog was the very first blog I ever read, I think! We have tried a few times to meet while I am in France, but it has not worked….yet. I know you stayed in that beautiful Paris Apt! jealous.
  
  We’re not going to France this summer…we have a grandson I want to spend time with (who knew I would have a grandson? I never had kids!! All the fun and none of the trouble…hahahhhaha). I will miss it I am sure, but that will make the next visit all the better, I know!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 9, 2017 at 7:03 AM
  
  ME TOO!
  COREY, was One of the FIRST BLOGS for me to READ…………..she is a HOOT and so so WONDERFUL.TALK ABOUT A GOOD LIFE!The only thing is I worry about the FRENCH HUSBAND in the SMALL airplane!WELL< PLAN FOR NEXT YEAR.................PARIS. YOU will lose weight walking UP and DOWN her stairs.............BELIEVE ME!PLUS, there is a BUTCHER Just BELOW!CAFE on the corners.............a 10 minute walk to THE LUXEMBURG GARDENS!IT IS IDEAL.........and the BATHROOM IS THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOU can ALWAYS DASH OUT WEST TO SEE ME.............open invitation for a few days!!!XX
Anita
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 6:43 PM

Did not flinch an inch when I saw the amount of salt going into the pasta water…….it needs it all.
Yes, agreed, never Parmesan with a seafood marinara sauce, although friends have tried to prise it out me on more than one occasion.
Hope that pruning is finished Vita.
Have you started dreaming about Sissinghurst and Great Dixter???
I never stop thinking about the two.
Ciao Bella.
Neat xx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:25 AM
  
  NO!
  RAIN RAIN isNOT relenting…………….BUT I have started a BOOK on GREAT DIXTER!!!!!!!
  I received a WONDERFUL Message yesterday about a FRIEND of mine joining YOUR NEXT BEE CLASS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!THAT FILLED MY HEART!
  XO
Lisa White
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 5:52 PM

I love how you invite us into your space and make us feel at home. We approach by way of the garden, around the Urn and into the kitchen. Sitting around your table, you share all the wonderful tips that a very special Italian has passed along to you. I imagine settling back in a chair admiring the kitchen your husband built…not just with bricks and mortar, but with love and good food. It is such a pleasure to visit your blog….I can imagine myself sitting right alongside you as you tell me the story of a long-ago flight to and back from Italy. BRAVA!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:23 AM
  
  BRAVA back at YA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  LOVED THIS……………XX
foodiefan
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 4:40 PM

Well I definitely have not been putting enough salt in the water when I cook my pasta! I was always told not to go to bed with wet hair as it would cause a cold and funnily enough I still follow that rule!!
Reading your story of traveling with your two boys brought back memories of taking my youngest son at 5 months across from Melbourne to London. I was so nervous he wouldn’t settle that I almost cancelled the trip but he surprised me and slept most of the way even though he was really too big for the plane’s bassinet! I had a wonderful week in Italy with all the lovely Italians fussing over him, something I had never experienced back home. No one here seems to really notice babies or if they do they complain about the noise they make!! We had rented a house in Tuscany and I was boiling the babies water bottle and teets and totally forgot while I was enjoying lunch on the terrace with family and they all melted away including the pot they were in and covered the whole kitchen in fine black powder!!! Everyone in the village thought it was a hoot when I stretched my only remaining teet over a 2 litre bottle of Italian mineral water. Anyway, after a month away I returned and I’ll never forget this Australian man who was sitting beside me on the plane looked absolutely aghast that he had to sit with a baby near him so he requested that a woman behind him swap seats…..I laughed as that silly man had given up the extra leg room and my son slept all the way back again to Melbourne without making a sound! I couldn’t resist saying to him once we landed that he gave up the leg room for nothing!!
Happy to hear the California drought has broken……your Spring garden will be magical.
xo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:22 AM
  
  GOOD FOR YOU!
  MEN…………..
  MY FATHER BRAGGED ABOUT NEVER CHANGING MY DIAPERS……………….
  HOW PATHETIC WAS THAT!
  Where in Tuscany did YOU rent THAT HOUSE?MY inquisitive mind NEEDS to know!
  XO
Andrea Serrahn
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 4:12 PM

I am in a plane right now flying from
Bombay to Jaipur. There are a few babies crying but here in India all of life is right in your face! I have held babies on buses and trains and my screaming niece on a plane. Just go with the flow or, when in Rome do as the Romans do! I.e., hold a baby!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:19 AM
  
  ENJOY!
  YOU ARE A WOMAN ON THE GO!!!!!!!!!!!!
  FULL OF COLOR and YOU DEFINITELY KNOW HOW TO DRESS WITH GUSTO!
  XX
Heidi
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 3:17 PM

Love all the tips!! I have known my Italian and his family for more than 20 years and to this day I get screamed at (in Italian) for putting Parmesan cheese on my seafood pasta!! I love it so much I can’t help it:) the wet hair thing yes:):) my Italian and his family are convinced that the heater is going to kill you or make you sick!! I am so lucky because my Sweetie is so romantic and always surprises with lovely notes, gifts and most importantly LOVE!!! If you are lucky enough to get an Italian keep him, they are the best men on the planet! I was lucky to live in Europe and feel lucky to live in America but I feel there is an elegance missing here. I.E. The businessmen VS the ladies elegance, manners & class are so intoxicating I would love to see more here. Meeting you only one time, you have all three and are also beautiful and inspiring! Thank you for your lovely blog and IG, much love:)
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:18 AM
  
  HELLO HEIDI!
  Don’t get me STARTED on the LACK of ELEGANCE HERE IN THE USA!!!
  I had a conversation YESTERDAY with a friend……as we had a cafe and watched the PEOPLE walk by …………all in BLACK.Men in short jackets that LOOK too SMALL and are terribly UNFLATTERING.Women with LARGE backsides wearing SHORT SWEAT JACKETS……..NO COLOR anyWHERE……………MY friend thinks people dress without giving it any THOUGHT!A PANT a TOP…………my answer to that was THEN WHO BUYS ALL THE CLOTHING IN THE SHOPS?Because what YOU see in the SHOPS isNOT what YOU SEE on the SIDEWALKS OF LIFE???????I have FUN getting DRESSED!YOU never know who you might RUN into!Plus, getting compliments from STRANGERS is SUCH A LIFT to the SPIRIT!!!!!!!!!I hope YOU have SUBSCRIBED to THE VINTAGE CONTESSA and DO tell me WHO you are on INSTAGRAM……..I SHALL FOLLOW WITH GUSTO!XX
- Heidi
  · Reply
  
  February 10, 2017 at 7:12 AM
  
  You know me on Instagram as needmoreglamour!! Sadly when we met I was dressed as horrible as one of those people walking by you!!! It’s how I dress at work but not in life! I like to save my beautiful clothing for going out in the world, I don’t want it to smell like an Italian Deli!!!! You gave me the most gorgeous bracelet that I look at everyday and will wear and always cherish!!!!!
  - LA CONTESSA
    · Reply
    
    February 10, 2017 at 9:04 AM
    
    OF COURSE!!!!
    PLEASE FORGIVE ME!
    XX
tara sayers dillard
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 2:03 PM

Need an Italian broth recipe. I love making broth. Not a cook. Nothing too inconvenient to make a good broth.

Born knowing cheese on fish pasta……gross.

Garden & Be Well , XOT
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:10 AM
  
  ONE WHOLE CHICKEN……….. a carrot, a celery stock, an onion I like the SWEET ONES,salt and pepper……………let it BOIL turn down to SIMMER for a couple of HOURS!
  EASY AS THAT!
  YOU HAVE NO TIME TO COOK!!!!!!
  The ITALIAN LOVED YOUR COMMENT GROSS!
  DID you see comment above THAT mentioned YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  XX
Anita Rivera
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 1:56 PM

Hello Contessa! Just stopping by to say hello. I see your corner of the world is still as elegant as ever and I can’t wait to see your white rose climbers come back!
D. A. Wolf
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 12:39 PM

That rock salt is beautiful. Who knew? And I would never have thought to use it in preparing pasta. Great tip. Now about your amazing environment – roses in the garage, items bedecked and bejeweled – I think you have the magic touch for creating unique and lush interiors AND gardens. Delicious!

As for that beautiful urn, if I had a green thumb I would plant it. I don’t happen to have a green thumb, unfortunately. But you do! It is a fabuloso object no matter what.

xo
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:06 AM
  
  THANK YOU on ALL levels…………………….XO
Katharine
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 12:15 PM

I think you should do a post on all the different ways THE ITALIAN has surprised you over the years on birthdays, anniversaries, etc. He should get some kind of award. No one does it like THE ITALIAN !! (I guess having YOU as the inspiration helps….)
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:05 AM
  
  I am NOT certain I can remember them ALL…………..the ring in a CAPPUCCINO CUP beside the bed,The anniversary ring in Kristopher’s diaper……….The GOLD BRACELET on my 50th in a JAR of STRAWBERRY JAM!The Diamond earrings on the CAT COLLAR…………….the SCAVENGER HUNT for a BEAUTIFUL NECKLACE made in ITALY BY HAND……………what am I forgetting???THE TRUCK with a RED BOW……………….help me out HERE!!!!!
  XO
Loree
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 12:07 PM

PS Theodore does cat yoga very well. How on earth do cats manage to contort themselves into so many weird positions?
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 7:01 AM
  
  HE IS A GORGEOUS CREATURE!I think he is HUMAN!I am SO lucky with my ANIMAL Menagerie SO SO LUCKY!
  Of course YOU knew you LIVE a TAD close TO THAT country ITALIA!
  XX
Loree
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 12:05 PM

Love your tips. Some I knew about (like the rock salt and not adding parmesan to your pasta); others were new. I do go out with wet hair every time I wash it, even in winter. Haven’t caught a cold yet but my nanna used to scold me about it all the time (she would agree that you can catch cold, if she was still here).
I think I would put a pot with a plant in the urn but not actually plant something right in it. I love that you Italian is so romantic and surprises you with sweet gifts. Looking forward to more of your stories and revelations …
1010ParkPlace
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 11:53 AM

I had a man who sounds a lot like your Italian. He died, unexpectedly, on Christmas Day a few years ago. How he spoiled me. Every day he told me how much he loved, adored, valued and appreciated me. We’re fortunate women to have found men like these two, aren’t we? Brenda
- Ellie's friend from Canada
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 2:49 AM
  
  I had tears when I read your post. So sorry that you lost your wonderful partner but how lovely that he appreciated you to the nth degree!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 6:57 AM
  
  1010PARKPLACE………….I AM SO SORRY.AND YES WE ARE!!!!XX
Marsha Scott
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 11:24 AM

My love, THAT man is fabulous! Of course, he’s ITALIAN! You know I’ve told you to keep him locked up, but I really know that’s not a problem because he LOVES YOU SO MUCH! Italians LOVE life, they LOVE romance, they LOVE adventure. Everything Italian is BIG. I know because I’m part Italian and when I’m in Italy I THINK I’M ITALIAN. Therefore, my news of the day is that ‘s it dangerous to be a Texas Italian because WE really have a hard time will “a little.” Little is not a word I use often! I overcook, overgift, overserve, etc. but, I must say, all my friends love my personalit and tell me I’m their “fluff.” I like that! I LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU. And, yep, I’m coming as soon as I can to see your part of the world.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 6:55 AM
  
  JUST WAIT UNTIL YOU MEET HIM!
  XX
Ms. Mary
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 10:42 AM

Elbert Hubbard said : “Art is not a thing — it is a way.”

YOU are a work of art!

I think a BOOK is a great idea. There are so many directions you could go. Have a brain-storming conversation with my little dove.

Enjoy the rain!

<3
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 6:54 AM
  
  I used YOUR Line or rather HUBBARD’s line with THE ITALIAN last night!
  IT WORKED!!!!!!!
  I will take your advise and give HER a RING!!!
  XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 10:15 AM

VIA EMAIL: Hello Contessa,

Well, looking at your lovely urn on the lovely table, it needs something planted. I like flowers however since my garden is small, I prefer green. Therefore, I am thinking a Boston fern, and of course a rounded boxwood topiary. I would luv to know what you decide on, perhaps hanging red roses, with pedals falling on the table.

Until next time,

Carol
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 6:53 AM
  
  TOO MUCH SUN for a FERN!!!
  XX
Robin Fink
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 10:03 AM

Oh, Contessa!

This post is dead on!! Giampiero is full of good advice. I have learned some of these the hard way! I must say, he is romantic, plus HE COOKS and bakes bread. Here is a funny story- we were in Firenze yesterday (thinking of you, wish you were there) and had lunch with our dear friend Luciano. We went to a favorite restaurant of his, by his office. The pizzeria (on the other hand), by his apartment, where we have eaten many times, is under investigation for money laundering. They were caught making up fake receipts (large amounts). But at this restaurant, we paid and were not given a receipt, and Luciano says “See, these are honest people, as we did not receive a receipt, so they cannot be laundering money”! LOVE living in Italy, always entertaining. Definitely a learning curve, for this Americana.
I agree you should write a book. You have a wonderful outlook, and put value on the important things in life. Your writing style is original and sooo enjoyable. A lifestyle book, with your travels mixed in? How about it?
Happy Valentines Day from your friend in Umbria. XOXO Robin
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 6:52 AM
  
  SO MANY OF YOU ARE SAYING A BOOK!!!!!!!!!
  It would have to be OVERSIZED like me……………..with TONS of PHOTOS!
  I appreciate your IDEA…………..and your FAITH in me but I do not think I have ENOUGH to write about or photos of the right quality.KEEP THINKING!
  XX
Pat
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 9:58 AM

Elizabeth, I love this post!
Yes, plant the urn. I see daffodils in spring (next year) and maybe cascading geraniums in summer…but you’ll come up with something marvelous, I’m sure.

Giampiero is right about almost everything…but he needs to try a puece of sourdough slathered with butter, a thin slice of spring garlic, and a sprinling of sea salt…that will change his mind about bread with dinner. In fact, what are you doing this weekend?…
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 8, 2017 at 6:49 AM
  
  FREE!
Catherine Robinson
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 9:45 AM

Thank you Contessa, for mentioning me – cheeky Theodore, although he looks as though he’s a fellow yogi!
I think I adore your husband – love all of his Italian Secrets, oh, to be an Italian 🙂
We always celebrate Valentine – I have a romantic husband too, this is our 36th Valentines!!!
Happy Valentine xx
Libby
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 8:31 AM

Rock salt will be in my shopping cart next trip. Rock on!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:39 AM
  
  I CAN SHARE!!!!!!!!!!!
  YOU will have no spot for THAT BIG BAG!
  COME DOWN AND GET SOME!
  XX
lisa thomson
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 8:19 AM

Interesting tips from Italy, Contessa. I want to go there now and have a proper bowl (or plate?) of pasta. A trick a friend taught me years ago (actually she was half Italian come to think on it) is to put VERY hot water in the serving bowl several minutes before serving the pasta. Dump the hot water out, fill the bowl with said pasta and place on dinner table. The heat of the bowl keeps the pasta hot for much longer.

I agree about the bread. I’m surprised about the balsamic and olive oil. Your yard looks lovely even in winter.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:45 AM
  
  YES, that will work but we tend to serve into the plates or bowls………depends on the TYPE of PASTA directly from the kitchen because dumping it in a strainer then dumping it into a PRETTY BOWL all takes time and you are LOSING THE HEAT!Best to serve up from the HOT POT it was cooked in unless it is an EXTRAVAGANT affair…………one should be passing the PASTA BOWL not plopping down in the middle of the table for 5 MORE minutes to go by before someone starts to SERVE themselves…………….THIS IS MY OPINION.
  THE ITALIAN willNOT EAT COLD PASTA…………..it has to be EATEN IMMEDIATELY!!!
  THANK YOU………loads of work to still be done in the yard.The RAIN continues HERE the good news is we are out of DROUGHT CONDITIONS!XX
LA CONTESSA
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 8:10 AM

VIA EMAIL:

Dear Contessa,

I found you sometime this fall…

Over the years, I noticed your name as a regular ‘commenter’ on Manger (your CAPS are IMPOSSIBLE to miss as is your unique writing style : ) and found you through a little detective work. Perusing Mimi’s links to other bloggers, I took a guess and clicked on ‘A Vintage Hen House.’ In all honesty, because Manger is mostly a food blog, I was curious if the person posting as ‘La Contessa’ was the ‘Barefoot Contessa’, Ina Garten… only to discover it was not she, but you…

Gobsmacked. I love this word, too. By the ZEST that infuses your writing— it has the effervescence of champagne or a spray of lemon zest. And I happily jumped down the magical rabbit hole of your archives where I spent a lot of time … and through you I met Ellie… no words. And Heather… beautiful, brilliant women.

It is impossible to explain how you can feel that you ‘know’ someone you have never met, simply by reading their words and seeing their photos. I think it only happens in the blogosphere and only because it is a rarefied world populated by AMAZING women (WHO SHOULD BE RUNNING OUR WORLD). Talented beyond measure, honest, giving, funny, self-deprecating, mothers, grandmothers, wives, gourmet (and aspiring-to-be) cooks, fashion and interior designer gurus, creative wordsmiths, pet lovers… I could keep going. It’s like looking into a glittery panorama Easter Egg or entering a secret garden… so, so generous of all who do this. To open their doors wide and welcome everyone to come in.

Some things you have written (and your photos) have LEAPT off the page and into my heart. I have just published a children’s book that I would LOVE to send you ~ The Fantastic Tails of Sammy and Mr. Chips. It was inspired by my own pets and there is a chapter called ~ ‘Cooped Up’ ~ (run by some very officious and smart feathered ladies) and there is a PIG named Buttercup (have to admit the name Banksy is tops for a PIG: ) Reading about your coop, chickens, vintage shop ‘The Hen House’ AND THE PARIS PHOTO SHOOT (and Everything Else) made my knees weak (I was sitting down). This is my second children’s book (first is The Time Seekers) and I would love to send this book to you as well. Both are on Amazon and my website is dasquires.com. As I was writing the fantastic tales (last summer before I found you), I remember intuitively knowing I had to use CAPS –more than I would have ever thought was necessary or appropriate for literature. I cannot tell you how much fun it was to discover your liberal use of upper case—I remember smiling to myself and thinking: IT IS JUST FINE TO USE CAPS.

Obviously there was too much to SAY to write as a comment on your blog, and I wanted to introduce myself properly. I would love to send my books to you… and would love to hear what you think after reading! You recently posted about what to do next. I agree with all who commented. YOU are important to so many because you bring JOY and SMILES and BEAUTY into people’s lives each and every time you write. I do have one suggestion…have you thought about writing a BOOK? Your life and travels would be a marvelous ‘Grand Tour’ …or how about a children’s story starring your charming pets… The Adventures of Banksy… ??!!! Will mention that I have a NY literary agent, signed right away when she read the manuscript of The Time Seekers and then she tragically passed away… it is a long story. I remain represented by her agency, but decided I wanted 100% control of content and artwork, so I self-published. This is NOT easy to do, but I am so glad I did. You could do the same, and I would bet you have an editor, artist, and graphic designer in your rolodex : )

Hope you will send your address so that I may mail the books to you!!
XO
Debbie Squires
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:16 AM
  
  AS ONE CAN IMAGINE this took my breath away and brought TEARS to my eyes!
  I cannot BELIEVE I Touch SO many people especially when I was lucky if I got a C PLUS in ENGLISH growing up.I have sent DEBBIE my address and will report in on the BOOKS!
  THIS WAS A BEAUTIFUL EMAIL DEBBIE…………….you have TOUCHED MY HEART!
  XX
- Sandra sallin
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 6:40 PM
  
  So beautifully expressed and so true. We all love her. Even with her upper case.
Celia Becker @ AfterOrangeCounty.com
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 8:10 AM

Dear Contessa, I love all your Italian truisms, which having been married to an Italian from Northern Italy in my first try at marriage (it ended 7 years later), I can attest to as all (but 1) being very true. I’ll never forget how embarrassed I was the first time I visited my Italian in Italy and ordered Cappuccino after dinner. The waiter refused to serve it to me. Lesson learned. I also agree that LOTS of salt is essential for good pasta, although I’ve never tried rock salt. My mother-n-law said the pasta water should be like the ocean. As for dressing pasta with olive oil, this is contrary to everything I ever heard in Italy? Hummmm? They told me the sauce won’t stick to oily pasta. I used to be embarrassed of my Italian when he would clean his plate with bread. Of course we think this is bad manners in America but the cooks in Italy feel it’s bad manners if one doesn’t clean their plate with bread. And speaking of pasta, don’t ever serve an Italian pasta with their main course! In Italy the pasta must be served FIRST. At a very large baptism party I hosted in Italy after the birth of my first son I tried to have a buffet which included pasta and all the various salads and main dishes. Everyone took a plate of pasta first, ate it, then returned for their main course and lastly ate the salad. They had NEVER, EVER experienced a buffet! Again, lesson learned. It wasn’t easy being an American married to an Italian. I commend you! But you got a good one that’s a romantic and leaves roses in the garage;)
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:24 AM
  
  YOU Understood THAT backwards……..if there is NO OIL or BUTTER IT WILL STICK TOGETHER!!!!!!YEP……….YEP………….nodding my HEAD in TOTAL AGREEMENT!!!!
  EATING IS A RITUAL…….it MUST BE ENJOYED!NOT Toss everything on a PLATE TOGETHER……………There is NO HURRY when it comes to eating.AS MY ITALIAN will say , “EATING IS ONE OF LIFE’s PLEASURES why rush it!”
  THANK YOU!YOU are RIGHT it wasNOT always so EASY………………..there definitely was a learning curve!XX
Fifi
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 7:51 AM

Reading this lovely post as I am waiting for my flight to LA. Looks like I will be next to a lady with a big kitty! How lucky for me. But a little baby would do too.
My contessa you are one of a kind and so is the romantic ITALIAN!!
Sending much love to all. Happy Valentine (we already know it will be dreamy!!!)
Miss you!Cheers!!!!Kisses!!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:25 AM
  
  LOVELY TO HEAR FROM YOU!
  SAFE FLIGHT………….XX
Christine G
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 7:26 AM

Could I borrow your husband for a week, or two? My husband could use some schooling in these romantic ways. I’m keeping him (44yrs this coming June!!!), but wouldn’t mind adding some romantic touches to him.

PS: leave the urn as is; it’s lovely.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:05 AM
  
  MAYBE!
  He is a GOOD HANDY MAN AS WELL………….
  MY IDEA TOO!
  CONGRATULATIONS on 44 years!NO SMALL FEAT……………..BRAVA
  XX
Foolishfun
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 6:11 AM

How is it you always write what I need to read???? I loved the tips from the Italian-and your observation on us being too busy is sad and true. I will slow down today and enjoy the rain. Thank you!!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:04 AM
  
  THE RAIN has been AMAZING!
  MADE me DO THIS POST!
  DO YOU need another bOOK????
  XX
meason miller
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 6:05 AM

So much fun and charm as always!!!! love the tips and your man….
(i married a french man from Dordogne, but we lived in Paris, didn’t go super well, i wish id have found an Italian instead, but i do love the french)
tips: when restaurants here put a small bowl of olive oil and a tasty type of vingrette on to the table to use with the breads placed there also; thats not right? is that an American thing? :)))
i love your yard, the urn: i prefer tables bare..they are so inviting and ephemeral in what gets placed upon them, always changing . but its hard to tell because one would have to be there to get the feel!
love your posts!!!!!!
oxox
Meason
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:02 AM
  
  YES!
  When did that come into FASHION?ABOUT 10 years ago or MORE NOW………….we NEVER GO OUT TO EAT ITALIAN so I cannot remember!I WONDER WHO CAME UP WITH THAT IDEA?A FOODY THING…………but again may have some ITALIAN roots as there is NO BUTTER SERVED!NOTE THAT!
  WE NEED TO CHAT!
  XX
Jeane
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 5:50 AM

Love all this info regarding Italians! Spontaneity is always special and requires some thinking about how to please another. So romantic!
I like to believe we in the US are becoming more gentle and loving and respectful of Mothers and children and elders and everyone! We have a lot to learn and travel always shows us new ways of being.
On the planter: My favorite Gardener, Tara Dillard, always says not to have a planter that cannot stand alone empty. Your is certainly commanding the space with its beauty. I probably would guild the lily and put something in it, even if it was just green moss.
Thanks for being you and keeping us laughing and learning!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 7:58 AM
  
  LOVE TARA……………I have ALL HER BOOKS and sit here at my computer with a PINK light BULB in my desk lamp.
  HER IDEA!
  I have taken the CHRISTMAS MAGNOLIA wreath out of the house FINALLY and laid on TOP for the moment!MY idea was STAND ALONE from the GET GO!
  I agree with YOU…………especially NOW we are getting better.This MOMENT or EPIPHANY came to me 25 years AGO about the people in the USA.
  Just to give you an example……….ITALIANS visit their PASSED WEEKLY or MONTHLY depending on the distance.CHANGE FLOWERS< SWEEP>ETC.
  DO WE EVEN GO VISIT??
  I suppose it depends on the person.XX
Bungalow Hostess
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 5:01 AM

Wow I had no idea that much salt was needed in pasta water! Bread and pasta a No No where have I been all my life? Obviously am in a steep learning curve! How about a classic Bolognese recipe to get our taste buds singing Italian?
Great post today!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 7:51 AM
  
  Most likely you eat PASTA as your first and second course……………..with a green salad.
  BUT HERE IT ALL STARTS WITH THE PASTA!
  THEN THE DINNER ARRIVES…………
  I think YOU just made a BOLOGNESE recently!!!!
  THANKS so much.XX
Our French Oasis
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 4:17 AM

I just love the looks people give me when I board a plane, with five children in tow, not so bad now, but when we had babies, and toddlers and all five were under ten years old, oh the looks we got, I could see everyone silently praying, please don’t let me be near to them! But they were and still are brilliant travellers. I put it down to the fact that they don’t watch much TV at home, so on a plane, whether it be one hour or 13 hours, being allowed to watch non stop, no parent telling them not to, is such a rare treat, they remain glued to the screen in silence! Anyway, travelling with kids is a long story, we get the looks just walking through the airport too! It always makes me smile. Love cashmere in the winter, virtually my daily wardrobe and I have to just tell you, chatting to a French friend the other day who was here for Sunday Brunch. I offered him milk with his coffee, he declined and in French of course he happily informed me that milk is for children!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 7:48 AM
  
  YOU ARE RIGHT!
  THE ITALIANS AS WELL SAY THAT MILK IS FOR KIDS!NEVER mind THAT was THE BEST MILK I ever DRANK!I could easily drink that LITER BOX by MYSELF!!!!!!!!I cannot recall now WHY that was……..a DIGESTIVE THING I THINK!!!
  I CAN ONLY IMAGINE………….HATS OFF TO YOU!
  They did not have the TV/ MOVIE thing going ALL the time when I travelled!ONE MOVIE ONLY!Then there was MUSIC!TO think my kids were born in the OLDEN DAYS!!!!XX
Daron
· Reply

February 7, 2017 at 1:04 AM

Happy Valentines’s Day to both of you – Contessa and THE ITALIAN xxx
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 7:43 AM
  
  GRAZIE…………..appreciate that!
  YOU have a GOOD DAY AS WELL!
  XX
Parnassus
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 11:33 PM

If you are using road salt, I would read the bag carefully–some types use added chemicals to melt the snow. Personally, I never add salt to pasta or rice when it is cooking. I notice no difference in the cooking, and the taste of the pasta or rice really comes through without a mask of salt (also, the salt is not healthy).
That tree limb is very dramatic and sculptural–too bad it will probably have to come down.
I would probably leave the urn unplanted, but since it is in a central position and visible from the kitchen window, those are reasons to do otherwise–it would certainly create a bright spot.
–Jim
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 7:42 AM
  
  ACTUALLY, we do not HAVE SNOW where we live but the bags are in our grocery stores……..they also make ICE CREAM with it.NO CHEMICALS……..JUST SALT!AS far as salt being BAD for YOU…………….again that was a fad and every body needs a little salt!The reason you NOTICE ZERO difference is because you didNOT put enough in!!!!THE ITALIANS USE SALT A LOT and they live A LONG LONG TIME……they also walk a lot.Just a different way of cooking.OH, JIM that limb has been there for 22 years………………I would miss it if it FELL.
  THANKS for the suggestion………..on the URN.I go back and fourth YES plant…….NO PLANT!
  I think I will leave unplanted for the moment………………..THANKS for YOUR IDEAS!XX
Mithra Ballesteros
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 9:24 PM

I shall try the rock salt method. And the insistence that diners are “à table” before serving. My dear Italian girlfriend Annmarie told me to stop putting grated Parmesan on my linguine with clams. An abomination, she said. And she was right of course. But a week or so later, she posted a photo of her first try at baklava, and it was a mess – corn syrup instead of honey and nuts not chopped and sloppy cutting of parallelograms. Did I say anything? Not one word!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:28 AM
  
  BECAUSE That was the way you were brought up!The ITALIANS feel they NEED TO TELL YOU HOW TO DO IT if done wrong as in their eyes there is NO WAY It can be GOOD DONE the WRONG WAY!!!!
  XX
Susie Craig
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 8:12 PM

Your Italian is just the best!!! My Australian man is gorgeous and loving but would need lots of reminding to buy a bunch of flowers for me. He would just tell me to go into my garden and pick them myself.
I recently got my Italian passport and of course we celebrated with ravioli. I remember as a little girl, watching an aunt in North Queensland roll her ravioli pasta out on a very long kitchen table with all the family assisting with filling and rolling. Sadly I don’t remember the taste of the ravioli but she and my Grandmother were said to be the best cooks in the district.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 6, 2017 at 9:49 PM
  
  ITALIAN PASSPORT?????
  I need to hear MORE!!!!!
  CONGRATULATIONS!!
  My SONS have the dual citizenship as well……………..might come in HANDY!
  XX
Deborah Peterson Milne
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 7:56 PM

Thank you for the great tips Elizabeth. I will for here forward add either olive oil or butter to my pasta before the sauce!! Yes, we American’s are too busy. We somehow need to learn how to slow life down. I suspect it’s never going to happen here. As for your gorgeous planter; I’d be tempted to add plants, but I think it’s also a great statement as is.

How fabulous is your Italian husband!!! <3 One has to appreciate a romantic. Here's to a happy Valentine's Day to you two lovers.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 6, 2017 at 9:47 PM
  
  THANKS and to the TWO of YOU as well in your NEW HOUSE!!!!!!!!!
  HAVE You made it to WEST LEWIS STREET?YOU MUST!Great coffee shop there too……….XX
Charlotte Des Fleurs
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 7:16 PM

I am laughing about the rock salt! Table Salt, Sea Salt and Rock Salt (Kosher) are all 99.9% the same – sodium chloride. The only difference is the size of the crystals. Now, about lots of salt in the water, yes, yes! That is to make the water boil at a higher temperature to properly cook the pasta so that it doesn’t get soggy.

Wet hair? Well, I guess it depends on the time of year and where you live. We grew up in sunny, hot southern California. We were in and out of the swimming pool all day. We often went to bed with wet hair (after washing out the pool water) because it was cooler.

Always love to see your posts.

Smiles from Charlotte
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 6, 2017 at 9:46 PM
  
  I have to say I too went out with wet hair as a teen and nothing happened but when I lived in ITALY and maybe because I heard about what would happen the one time I did leave LA CASA with wet hair I got terribly SICK!I think maybe the humidity might have something to do with it??I have no idea but I never did it AGAIN!
  THANKS for YOUR TIP on THE SALT!
  XX
- Charlotte Des Fleurs
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 1:15 PM
  
  I would be careful about using the rock salt used to melt snow. SOME brands (not all) have additives that probably are not very good to ingest. Morton’s makes a Rock Salt for roads that is pure Sodium Chloride. It is called SureSoft. That is what you want! Kosher Salt is perfectly good but you can’t get it in the big bags like Rock Salt for roads. I am guessing that the Italian buys rock salt by the big bag to create a non-slip texture for concrete walks and patios.
Diana Amato
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 7:14 PM

Again… those question marks.. they should have been hearts..;-)
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 6, 2017 at 8:26 PM
  
  I changed them to EXCLAMATION MARKS!
  For some reason this comment section does not take the EMOGI’s…….is that what they are called?
  I knew you meant HEARTS but this was THE BEST i could DO!!!!!
  THANK YOU!!!!!
  BIG HUG!
  XO
Diana Amato
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 7:07 PM

I am enthralled and just LOVIN’ this post! In so many ways, I could not agree more! The Italians LOVE CHILDREN; THEY ARE REVERED everywhere! Our young son was infamous for going out to a fabulous dinner anywhere.. and then promptly telling us he was tired and needed to sleep. The Italian waitstaff would shake open a brand new tablecloth and lie it anywhere, (Over a couple of chairs or even on the floor). And there slept our son, ensconced in the care of so many!!!! I respect and adore the passion with which the Italian culture pays to Pasta! It becomes a rite of passage to the younger generations. It so full of heritage and stories, and opinions… I love this! Inspiration is the Hope that threads tomorrow.. Brava dear One!1 Very well DONE!!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:33 AM
  
  LOVED YOUR STORY as I LOVE THE PHOTOS I have seen of your SON!
  I also LOVE that word REVERED………..I need to USE that in my VOCABULARY!
  MILLIE GRAZIE for ALWAYS being HERE……………XX
Sandra Sallin
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 6:48 PM

What a fun post. Of course now I have to know where to buy rock salt. I have Kosher, Sea, Maladon, Nepalese and Pink but no rock salt. Oh, I broke my salt grinder. Which one do you recommend? Love your husband, but you know that. Love your stories, you know that. Just keep um coming!

Keep the urn on the table. Love it. I must visit when your roses are in bloom.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:30 AM
  
  NO SALT GRINDER for ROCK SALT as it goes in the water as you BOIL the WATER!IT will melt!YOUR GROCERY STORE should have it and KOSHER will WORK just as well!
  
  GOT IT and YES YOU MUST!
  XO
Jan Schechter
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 6:14 PM

Love Italian Secrets! I think you could really fill a book, Ah good idea!
You are right Elizabeth, we do get too busy with our stuff to sometimes notice the really important things in life. Thank you for reminding us. As for the cooking, I feel blessed to have enjoyed many amazing meals at your table. I long for more! Tell G I said Hi!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:34 AM
  
  IT IS TIME FOR A VISIT!
  BIG HUG,
  XO
Penelope Bianchi
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 4:52 PM

A wonderful post!! Yowee!

I love that Italian of yours…..boy, I learned a lot from your rules!!!

Happy Valentine’s!!!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:37 AM
  
  A HUG YOUR WAY………………XO
Anna Lucia Boudreaux
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 4:48 PM

Oh, Contessa, what a great post. We traveled twice to Italy with my extremely stylish Italian American grandmother who was 85 @ the time, our sons were 8, 10. Everywhere we were greeted with open arms because we had our Nonna and children with us. When I see glimpses of your home I can see with more than eyes that although you are sartorially splendid, you also know what’s important. Family. Children. Children are there to keep us from becoming too selfish and their children to keep us from leaving them an inheritance, lol!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 7, 2017 at 8:36 AM
  
  HOW GORGEOUS WAS THIS STORY YOU SHARED WITH ME!
  LA NONNA opens DOORS!!!!!!!!!!
  YOU do know I am the NONNA to BANKSY the TEA CUP PIG!I wonder if we will get the same REACTION!!!!!!!!!
  YOU ARE SO RIGHT on the children FACTOR!
  GRAZIE………MILLIE GRAZIE!!!!
  XX
Catherine
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 4:46 PM

Oh. I always wear red. Even if it is just a touch. It’s my favorite color!
And I almost died laughing at the “don’t go out with your hair wet”. My mother used to say that all the time-and she was Irish! Oh god forbid if we left the house with wet hair. It was a sin.
I love the suggestion about the rock salt in pasta water. I always use a ton of salt in the water but I use sea salt. I’ll switch.
My FRENCHMAN will not eat lukewarm or cold pasta. He demands it be served hot!!!!! French and Italians–so much alike! Except the Frenchies butter their bread!!
I love this post!! I love you! I love pasta.
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 6, 2017 at 9:41 PM
  
  ROCK SALT and SEA SALT are very similar…………I think the rock is a bigger granule.We buy the SALT they sell to use on the roads for the snow!IN A BIG BAG it LASTs a long, long time and does not COST nearly as much as your FANCY SEA SALT!
  The FRENCH MAN will like THAT I would imagine………….XX
Linda
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 4:28 PM

I believe I drove you to the airport on that flight to Italy and I was scared to death for you! BTW, Italians do not eat bread with pasta but they eat a lot of bread with the secondo! My parents cannot eat without bread on the table. Hugs from your “Valentine”!
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 6, 2017 at 9:38 PM
  
  YES!
  Perhaps I did not make that CLEAR………….
  NO bread with PASTA but it is there for the taking during the MAIN COURSE!
  OH MY GOSH………..I think YOU DID TOO!!!!!!!!!!
  XX
Graciela
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 2:03 PM

Wow, What a great post to read, thank you – hope you do not mind but, My love is one Latino lover and loves to cook also, So I shared your tips and he agrees with all of it!

Love all the pics you post also, I hope to see you, born and raised in San Francisco, let me know when you want to go on a adventure on the other side of the Bay.

As this new year New Year unfolds with ease and grace and that what you truly value and love is the undercurrent of all that you make in 2017.

As always, my best to you !
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 6, 2017 at 9:37 PM
  
  HOW ARE YOU DOING NEWLY RETIRED………………SO HAPPY TO HEAR FROM YOU!
  I think the LATINO’s and THE ITALIANS are on the same path!
  FAMILY AND FOOD!!!
  XX
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    February 6, 2017 at 11:34 PM
    
    Here is the secret…..Spanish and Italian are “romance languages” Maybe it was my University USC (fight on!) who called them that…..but it explains everything!
Fran
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 1:36 PM

Lovely Post, As ALways, Cara Contessa. I, too, follow all those tips you have written…EXCEPT for the cheese with fish one. I don’t use it for all fish, just certain ones….according to Lidia Bastianich – who I have admired for Ages – says that the “cheese – fish” debate is more a regional thing. Monte e Mare Debate…If you go to the South, you will find people do work cheese into a sauce…in fact, one of the oldest Sicilian recipes from 400BC for fish is: Gut. Discard the head, rinse, slice, add cheese and oil.
Regarding your 13 hour Solo trip with your babies….. I bow down to you on that one…bags and babies…I would be too anxious and nervous…. I am not surprised at the men fighting over your babies…they sure were so darn cute!! XX
- LA CONTESSA
  · Reply
  
  February 6, 2017 at 9:34 PM
  
  Certain there are recipes with cheese and perhaps in 400 BC there was a smell to HIDE!Cheese covers the flavors…….and THE ITALIAN FOOD IS ALL ABOUT THE FLAVORS………..
  I asked THE ITALIAN about your question and he is from the SOUTH NAPLES…….but his answer to me was ask an ITALIAN if SiCILY is apart of ITALY………….!!!
  I think SICILY was more of a MELTING POT THAN AMERICA and you have A LOT of different countries there from ARAB,INDIAN, AFRICAN and European. A LOT of the flavors have been merged together…………..AS LONG AS YOU ENJOY IT THAT IS WHAT IS IMPORTANT. MANGIA……………..BENE!
  AND I KNOW YOU DO!
  XX
  - Penelope Bianchi
    · Reply
    
    February 6, 2017 at 11:38 PM
    
    So funny! MY Italian husband (third generation…..) puts parmesan on everything! They tell him…..NO NO NO!!
    
    He says……”My Nonno who came over on a boat…..from Italy in 1899 around the horn to San Francisco, told me I could put Parmesan on my toothbrush!
    
    so he does it to the horror of our Italian restaurants. They all adore him, anyway!!!
Kathy L
· Reply

February 6, 2017 at 12:55 PM

I enjoyed the Italian’s tips. My grandmother was born in Italy and a wonderful cook, so I knew many of the tips already.
The last time I was in an authentic Italian restaurant in Boston, my husband ordered a fish stew like cioppino, and when he asked the Italian server to grate some cheese over his entree, the server was aghast and did not try to hide it. I pointed out the faux-pas to my husband, and he could not have cared less. Oh those stubborn Germans!
- LA CONTESSA
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  February 6, 2017 at 9:25 PM
  
  ANOTHER GREAT STORY!
  DO you think he would do it again?My BET is YES!
  XX
Taste of France
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February 6, 2017 at 12:54 PM

This is so wonderful. The roses in the garage! The Italian’s tips. The baby-loving Roman businessmen.
Re coffee, my entire family–13 of us, ages 2 to 75–vacationed in Italy years ago. First trip to Europe for everybody but me and my dad (who told me, “Sweetie, you don’t want to go to Italy (pronounced it-lee). I’ve been there (during WWII). You can’t drink the water!” I assured him things had changed.
Anyway, my brothers were eager to sample Italian coffee. They would order coffee with meals, and the Italian waiters would look at them in confusion, ask two or three times whether they didn’t want wine (no, we were driving and they had little kids to chase). They said, “just coffee.” Well, the meals would go on and on, and after and hour and a half, the littlest kids got antsy and we would decide to get the check and leave before they melted down. No coffee. I explained to my brothers that coffee comes at the very end of the meal. Finally, one day, they took the car (actually a huge van, almost a bus) and went to town to a café. One brother described it: “They served it in a cup about the size of a thimble, with a little foam that didn’t fill it half way. But I tell you–it was enough!”
- LA CONTESSA
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  February 6, 2017 at 9:24 PM
  
  I LOVED THIS STORY!!!!!!!!!
  I CAN SEE IT and HEAR IT all in ACTION!
  THANK YOU for sharing your HEART WARMING STORY WITH ME!
  XX