The Secret Garden

Confession

2012-03-09T10:00:00.000+01:00

Would you believe it?

xo, Lara

Noel Gallagher Love

2012-03-08T09:30:00.000+01:00

Alf and I are off to Munich for the week end. We are going to Noel Gallagher's gig!

This short vacation was my Christmas present from Alf and I'm over the moon! I can't wait for leaving and Munich seems to be an amazing town (where I've never been to!).

The concert is gonna be on Sunday so we have almost 2 full days to spend playing around and descovering the city. Have you ever been in Munich? Any spot I cannot miss?For real time updating just add me on twitter :) ...And, of course, Noel: you are the best!

Have a good week end! xo, Lara

Ps. You are still on time to enter the Marakita Giveaway!

First day in the sand

2012-03-07T09:00:00.000+01:00

Sabato scorso prima giornata di sole e prima gita al mare. ...E niente, queste foto mi fanno un po' ridere!

Last Saturday first day of sunshine and first trip to the beach. ...And that's it, just because these pics make me laugh!

xxx, Lara

Ps. You are still on time to enter the Marakita Giveaway!

Over the week end

2012-03-05T13:00:00.000+01:00

Il primo week end di Marzo è stato il prototipo del week end perfetto: sole, aria di primavera, tempo trascorso all'aria aperta, cibo greco a una colazione speciale con la mia persona preferita.

First week end of March was the paradigm of the perfect week end: sunshine, a lovely spring air, so much time were spent onpen air, greek food... and I had a special breakfast with my favourite person in the world.

Have a good start of the week ! xxx, Lara

Marakita Giveaway!

2012-03-05T09:00:00.000+01:00

Quest'oggi sono felicissima di darvi la possibilità di vincere un premio offerto da uno dei miei brand italiani preferiti: Marakita.

Marakita è un marchio toscano dallo spirito irriverente in grado di regalare appeal ad ogni vostro look con i suoi accessori colorati e super pratici. Date un occhiata alle sue borse qui e fatemi sapere se vi piacciono.. io adoro la Superbag gialla! Non vedo l'ora di poterla acquistare :)

Questo mese, Marakita offrirà ad una lettrice di The Secret Garden un paio di calze ricamate al telaio, interamente fatte in Toscana (...viva il made in Italy!), perfette per rendere divertente un outfit semplice o abbinando il ricamo con un accessorio a vostra scelta.. cosa ne dite?

Per partecipare è necessario:

- seguire The Secret Garden via Google Friend Connect (nella colonna a destra c'è un tasto apposito, basta cliccarlo!);

- diventare fan del sito Marakita su Facebook direttamente da qui ;

- lasciare un commento al post in cui indicate il vostro nome su Google Friend Connect, il vostro nome su Facebook e la vostra email (affinchè io possa contattarvi in caso di vincita!).

Avete una settimana di tempo: il giveaway terminerà il 12 marzo a mezzanotte, la vincitrice verrà estratta tramite random.org ed il suo nome verrà comunicato nei giorni successivi (per aggiornamenti in tempo reale e per chiacchiericcio vario potete aggiungermi su Twitter!)

In bocca al lupo a tutte!

Today I'm super happy to give you the opportunity to win a special prize offered by one of my favourite italian brand: Marakita.

Marakita is a tuscan brand and it creates colorful accessories that can give to your outfit that buzz that makes you feel special just wearing your jeans and tee! Plus: italian high quality and experience in manufacturing.

Have a look at its beautiful bags and let me know what you think... I'm in love with this yellow Superbag! I'm pinching my pennies and wondering about wearing next summer!

This month Marakita wants to offer to a lucky reader of The Secret Garden these hand embroidered tights (made in Italy, of course!) perfect to light up a simple outfit ... wouldn't they perfect to match with a same colour bag?

To enter this giveaway, please:

- join The Secret Garden with Google Friend Connect (just press the button on the right column!)

- like Marakita page on Facabook right here ;

- leave a comment below telling me your name on Google Friend Connect, Facebook and leave your email address (so I can quickly get in touch with you if you win the contest!).

You have a week to join this giveaway, expiry date: March, 12 (midnight italian time). The lucky reader will be choosen by random.org and I'll tell her name on this post (for last minute infos or just for fun, please, feel free to follow me on Twitter!).

Good luck to everyone!

The muffin day

2012-03-01T09:00:00.000+01:00

Quella di ieri è stata la giornata del muffin.

La giornata in cui ero così stanca e giù di corda che l’unica cosa in grado di risollevare le cose è stato questo muffin al cioccolato con tonnellate di zucchero a velo. Da sola davanti alla tv, purtroppo.Negli ultimi giorni impegni di studio sono stati così pressanti e la mia forza fisica talmente blanda che quasi non mi sembra vero di essere sopravvissuta. Ma così è stato e c’è il muffin a testimoniarlo :)

Buona inizio marzo a tutti voi!

Yesterday was the muffin day!

I was so tired that and upset that the only thing that cheered me up was this chocolate muffin (with tons of sugar). I had it all alone watching tv (it’s sad, I know).These past ten days I had so many study related things to do and I felt so weak and always tired that I almost can’t believe I’m still alive.

But I did, muffin can prove it :)

I wish for you a good start of this brand new March!

Lara

Fashion tips: This shopping I like

2012-02-29T10:00:00.000+01:00

Dall'alto: Sonia Rykiel - Marc by Marc Jacobs - Vanessa Bruno

Oggi vi voglio confidare una cosa: non sono il tipo di ragazza che ama trascorrere interi pomeriggi in giro per in negozi.

Mi piace la moda e mi piace scegliere vestiti o accessori che vadano d'accordo col mio carattere ma, credetemi, pellegrinare per negozi è una cosa che mi riesce per non più di due ore. Paradossalmente credo che sia dovuto a due fattori: difficoltà nel fare selezione tra gli articoli (se ho le idee ben chiare su cosa comprare già mi riesce meglio altrimenti finisco con l'andare in giro random e comprare cose a caso) e poi -colpa mia!- pigrizia cronica che, generalmente, mi fa ammirare solo le vetrine e terminare la passeggiata in gelateria.

Individuato il problema, ecco la soluzione: lo shopping on line!

Anche io, infatti, sono tra le centinaia di ragazze italiane ormai totalmente "addicted" alle net - boutique ed è per questo che voglio consigliarvi questo sito: ShopAlike. Non si tratta delsolito negozio on line, infatti, ma di un vero e proprio centro commerciale che raccoglie al suo interno decine di negozi. Il risultato è questo: tempi di ricerca ridotti e un catalogo vastissimo tra cui scegliere. ShopAlike si divide in varie sezioni a seconda di ciò che cercate. Io, ad esempio, ero in cerca di una nuova borsa e quindi sono andata qui: dove, grazie ai comandi per affinare la ricerca, ho potuto evitare l'empasse da negozio pieno di roba (e qui, vi assicuro, ce n'è davvero tanta!) e cercare solo ciò che relamente desideravo. Il tutto, ovviamente, comodamente da casa... inutile aggiungere altro :)

Queste sono le borse che mi piacciono, che ne dite? Fatemi sapere cosa ne pensate e se anche voi conoscete e usate ShopAlike!

Today I wanna make a confession: I'm not that kind of girl who loves spending hours going on shopping.

I mean, I LOVE fashion and buying my own clothes, I love matching bags, shoes etc.. but - belive it or not- I don't go crazy for shopping for two reasons: there is too much stuff in shops and I'm always amazed from beautiful windows but when I step into the shop I don't know how to choose what I need! And - second reason - I am maybe a little lazy and my shopping always ends in a cool gelateria with friends (I mean... this things really worth, don't you think?;)

I have to admit that now I've found a great solution: shopping on line.You don't have to dress up too cool (you don't have to dress up at all if you don't need it!) and you won't feel that overwhelming "What did I want to buy?!" feeling when you come into the shop.

This is why I really want to suggest to you this good net - boutique: ShopAlike.

This is not an ordinary on line shop but it's just like you are going to the mall! It's a big shopping platform when you can choose everything you need from dozens of on line shops and (plus!) they have great choosing options that help you to find what you really need.

ShopAlike has different parts where you can find different items. I was looking for a new bag so I had a look at ShopAlike... what do you think about my choice? Did you know ShopAlike?

I'd love to hear your thoughts!

xo, Lara

Last week end drama: oil stains

2012-02-27T16:19:00.000+01:00

Cadere nel panico per una macchia di olio suoi jeans (il mio paio preferito!) a 25 anni suonati non è una cosa di cui andare fiere. Per cui, cedo la parola a mia madre:

"Le macchie di olio sui jeans non sono un dramma. Il jeans scuro non è un capo particolarmente delicato e si può agire in vario modo.Se la macchia è appena fatta la si può tamponare con del talco, lasciare che assorba l'olio e poi lavare con normale detersivo.Se si tratta di una macchia vecchia - come nel mio caso n.d.r. - si può usare direttamente sulla zona interessata del solvente per piatti (il classico sgrassatore è indicato anche per questo uso), sfregando delicatamente con acqua fino a quando la macchia non va via."

Grazie mamma!

Ps. ...E scusa se ti ho disturbato durante Italia's got talent!

Patrick Createur giveaway winner

2012-02-24T09:00:00.000+01:00

Grazie a tutti per aver partecipato al giveaway offerto da Patrick Createur!

...e complimenti alla nostra vincitrice, Erica M.U.F ! :)
Se siete su twitter aggiungetemi, si fanno chiacchiere e vi aggiorno in tempo reale sui giveaways e il blog! Basta cliccare sul tasto nella colonna a destra.

Un bacio a tutte e buon week end!
Lara, xo

The Old Man Who Read Love Stories

2012-02-22T09:00:00.000+01:00

La settimana scorsa, al ritorno da una stancante giornata di studio ho trovato nella cassetta delle lettere il pacchettino marrone di Amazon con all'interno questo: un regalo di San Valentino in anticipo di qualche giorno.Data la mia impossibilità di leggere qualsiasi cosa che superi il centinaio di pagine (problema di cui abbiamo già parlato qui :) e la speculare frustrazione che si prova, Alfio ha pensato di regalarmi questo racconto di Sepulveda. Un po' romantico e un po' selvaggio.

(Forse, un po' come il mio uomo ;)

Last week when I came back from school I found a small brown box from Amazon. It was an advanced Valentine gift for me: a new book. Considering all my problems (and frustration) with finding the time and focusing my attention on reading books that counts more than 100 pages ( we've been talking about this here :) Alf though to give me as present this short story written by Sepulveda. A little romantic and a little wild

(as -maybe- my man is..!)

xo, Lara

Starry night

2012-02-20T09:00:00.000+01:00

Non potendo abbracciare la mia persona speciale sotto ad un cielo pieno di stelle (in Sardegna l'estate del 2010 quello più bello che abbia mai visto) ho pensato che sarebbe stato bello provare a riprodurlo in una stanza e, complice una colonna sonora romantica, tutto questo sarebbe stato perfetto per vivere un momento semplice di tenerezza, magari quando si torna stanchi dal lavoro.

Questo è ciò che ho voluto regalare ad Alfio per San Valentino! Che ne pensate?

I can't hug my special man under such a beautiful starry sky as the one I stare at in a summer night (the most beautiful one I saw was in Sardinia two years ago) so I though I could reproduce it in a room. Just imagine how would it be perfect to welcome home your man after work in a room full of stars and listen to a romantic song in his hug!

That's what I gave Alf for present on Valentine's day. What do you think?

xxx, Lara

ps. C'è ancora tempo per partecipare al giveaway di Patrick Createur :)

Have a good week end (random)

2012-02-18T09:00:00.000+01:00

Da sopra in senso orario: 1) new entry da compagnia 2) espressione di disappunto davanti alla tragica certezza di aver toppato il colore del Mineral Veil di Bare Escentuals (chi di voi lo usa?:) 3) new entry nell'armadio da parte di mia cugina! 4) A tonnellate.

Clockwise: 1) a new good company friends 2) my disappointed face when I saw I definitely fail with my Bare Escentuals Mineral veil colour. (Anyone of you addicted?:) 3) I sweet gift from my cousin 4) TONS.

Have a great week end!

xo, Lara

Ps. Ancora in tempo per unirvi al giveaway di Patrick Createur!

Patrick Createur Giveaway! (CLOSED!)

2012-02-16T09:00:00.000+01:00

Oggi The Secret Garden vi offre la possibilità di vincere un accessorio indispensabile per sentirvi chic e alla moda: il cerchietto! ... E non si tratta di un cerchietto qualsiasi ma di uno offerto da Patrick Creauteur, il giovane e talentuoso designer romano che ormai è un vero fenomeno della rete! Del resto, come si fa a resistere all'allure romantica e fuori dal tempo che solo degli accessori così belli possono regalare?

Patrick Createur regalerà il cerchietto modello classico di raso nero, così di classe e, diciamocelo, così tanto Chanel :)

Le regole del gioco sono semplici, se vi va di partecipare è necessario:

1) unirvi ai lettori di The Secret Garden tramite Google Friends Connect (tasto a destra nella pagina!)

2) aggiungere Patrick Createur ai vostri amici Facebook (...e guardate quanti accessori irresistibili, io li vorrei tutti!)

3) lasciare un commento con la vostra email e specificare il nome con cui seguite il blog e la pagina di Patrick Createur... e lasciate anche un saluto ( ..solo se vi va ;)

Il vincitore verrà estratto random giovedì prossimo (quindi avete tempo fino mercoledì a mezzanotte), verrà contattato tramite email nonchè menzionato sul blog... stay tuned :)

Buona fortuna e buon divertimento!

English friends: So sorry! This giveaway is open to italians only... but stay tuned because next one will be world wide open :)

Lara

Happy Valentine's!

2012-02-14T12:50:00.003+01:00

Chicago, 2010 March

Happy Valentine's Day to all of you and your lovers.
Thank you for following this Love week and enjoying it.

Hope you'll have a romantic day!

Lara

Ps. More posts about Love! :)

Valentine's handmade card

2012-02-13T20:30:00.000+01:00

La sera scorsa, invece di gettarmi agonizzante sul divano davanti alla tv come al solito-

ho pensato di fare qualcosa di speciale per il mio Valentino,

qualcosa che potesse essere, divertente e dolce allo stesso tempo: un biglietto di S.Valentino fatto a mano.

E' stato più semplice di quanto pensassi... ed incredibilmente cheap. Ecco cosa vi serve:

carta da regalo di Natale avanzata

(io ho gli odiosi ritagli che credevo non servissero a nulla prima dell'altra sera!), colla e

un cartoncino da piegare a metà!

Scrivete il vostro messaggio e decoratelo a mo' di collage con i ritagli di carta da regalo

(magari evitando i pezzetti dove c'è scritto buon Natale, ok che c'è crisi... but.. I mean...;)

Al tutto, aggiungete all'interno una vostra foto speciale e un messaggio (quello, beh, non devo dirvelo io!).

Io ho scelto una mia foto col suo cane (che mi trascina per il parco).

Buona settimana di San Valentino a tutte!!!

Last night instead of dying on the sofa as usual I decided I had to do the most special thing I could

for my Valentine :

an handmade card that could be sweet and personal at the same time. So that's was my job!

I took a thin cardboard, some glue and ... leftover Christmas wrapping. I put some music on

(last Coldplay's album)and I spend a very alternative night!

Use the leftover wrapping as a collage paper and decore your message on the cardboard.

(Go '80s or geek if you want!).

Add a special message on the inside plus (if you like!) a special picture of you!

I choose a funny photo with his god (HE was taking me out for a walk in the park!)

Have a great Valentine's week, my good friends!

Lara

Ps. Thanks to Lucie and Erica Marie for being new readers!

A little hair makeover

2012-02-13T09:00:00.000+01:00

Sabato scorso sono andata dal parrucchiere per tagliare un po' i miei lunghiiiissimi capelli. Erano davvero così rovinati nelle punte che questo piccolo makeover era veramente d'obbligo.

Ho pensato di chiedere alla parrucchiera di non fare la solita piega liscia ma di muovere un ' le estremità. I miei capelli sono natualmente ondulati e anche se una volta ogni tanto mi piace vedermi totalmente in liscio, questa volta ho preferito non discostarmi tanto dalla loro natura. Che cosa ne dite?

Last Saturday I went to the hair dresser becuase my extra long hair really needed to be cut. They were damage because of the super length ( I didn't cut them from more than 6 months!) and I've been craving a little makeover! I asked the hair dresser to have my hair done with little waves on the end instead of the simple streight hair.

My hair have natural waves and I wanted something that could be similar... Do you find them cool or too messy? What do you think?

xxx, Lara

What's up to you this Valentine's Day?

2012-02-12T15:18:00.000+01:00

Dedicated to all of my friends. Genius!

Lara Kasabian

Photo: someecards

Our second anniversary

2012-02-10T14:47:00.000+01:00

Per la serie di post dedicata a San Valentino, oggi vorrei condividere con voi qualcosa di molto personale: il mio secondo anniversario con Alfio. Ecco un piccolo resoconto di una meravigliosa giornata e qualche foto... se avete piacere di leggere... :)
Io e Alf siamo davvero fortunati ad esserci conosciuti ed innamorati durante le vacanze estive perchè questo rende molto più semplice avere la possibilità di trascorrere ben più di una cenetta romantica ma proprio una intera giornata insieme. Lo scorso Agosto, infatti, siamo andati in vacanza in Corsica per una esperienza mozzafiato: io, lui, una tenda di Decathlon e la sua auto! Era tutta la vita che sognavo una vacanza così avventurosa e romantica allo stesso tempo e, ad oggi, mi sento certa che quella sia stata la più bella delle vacanza insieme.
Il tuor della splendida isola francese è stato organizzato in modo tale da far coincidere il nostro anniversario con la visita della regione del Sarténe, un'area davvero ricca di bellezza ed estremamente romantica.
Devo ammettere che, in questo caso, il mago dell'organizzazione è stato proprio Alfio, il quale ha reso tutto perfetto scegliendo l'agriturismo U' Ciattinu dove trascorrere quella magica notte. Per la cena, invece, abbiamo scelto A' Tinedda, un vecchio casale con alle spalle un piccolo giardinetto fiorito... cosa posso dire se non.. perfetto? :) E la cosa ancora più romantica è stata la passeggiata tra i campi coltivati della tenuta che ci siamo concessi dopo cena: un cielo limpido pieno di stelle e il silenzio dell'aperta campagna tutto per noi.

Today I would love to share some pictures and thoughts about our last anniversary that was the second one. If you you want to read.. here it is my story :)

We are very lucky because our anniversary is on August, full vacation time! Last year we went to Corsica for a breathtaking road trip and we planned to visit the whole island in a week (that was an almost impossible but very funny plan!). Everything was planned to let us descover the beautiful area of the Sarténe on our anniversary date and indulge ourself a very romantic night in one of the lovely spots in the area.

I have to admit that Alf planned everything and I did a great job! He choose the agriturismo U' Ciattinu and booked our delicious dinner at A' Tinedda that was only an amazing walk in the fields away from our hotel room! ...Perfect!

Alfio ha scelto questa camera dal design pulito dotata di un bagno confortevole ed estremamente cool (in realtà ogni vero beagno ti sembra cool dopo giorni di toilets improvvisate in campeggio;) . Il panorama era estremamente rilassante ed ho dormito così bene!
La cena da A' Tinedda è stata ricca di deliziose pietanze corse e buon vino del Sarténe ma, stranamente, non abbiamo diviso il dessert! Alfio ha scelto confeture et fromeges ed io, che i formaggi non li sopporto, ho lasciato che si gustasse serenamente il suo dessert senza la mia insidiosa forchettina nel piatto pronta a rubargli l'ultimo boccone.
Il giorno seguente abbiamo avuto il piacere di conoscere i gestori della tenuta per colazione. Una giovane coppia con il loro piccolissimo (e tenerissimo!) bambino ci hanno accolto in modo cordiale e disponibile... in più la colazione era davvero deliziosa, così buona che -vergogna!- ho mangiato ben due croissants..

Alf choose this clean design room with a cool bathroom (every bathroom is supposed to be cool after a week of camping :) and a lovely panorama. I slept so well!

The dinner at A' Tinedda was rich in tasty food and good wine but we didnt' share the dessert (as usual) because the man had fromages et confeture ...I can't stand cheese (I know, sounds strange) and I happily let him finish it without saying a word :)

The following day we had the pleasure to meet the housekeepers: a young couple with their baby son! They served us breakfast in the front garden and I had two croissants (shame on me!:)

Mi sento davvero fortunata e felice all'idea di aver trascorso una così bella giornata con il mio Amore... una giornata rilassante lontato dalle preoccupazioni... ancora meglio del nostro primo anniversario, ci credereste?
Altri post di San Valentino in arrivo :)

I feel very lucky because we had a relaxing day, with no job -related thoughts or worries! It was even better than our first anniversary... and it's gettin better and better :)

..More Valentine's posts are coming!

Lara

Valentine's windows

2012-02-09T20:30:00.001+01:00

La scorsa settimana mi sono trovata in centro a Lecce e non ho potuto fare a meno di aggiungere una piccola
deviazione al mio percorso per vedere la vetrina della gelateria Natale.
I più famosi gelatai di Lecce (nonchè ottimi pasticceri!) hanno deciso, quest'anno, di unire i temi
di San Valentino e Carnevale nella loro vetrina principale.
Nonostante il freddo (davvero poco invitante per mangiare un bel gelato) sono stata tentata dalle sue decine
di ottimi gusti e soprattutto dalle sue paste giganti in perfetto stile leccese.
Come si può resistere? :)

Last week I went for a little walk in the center of Lecce and I had a look of Valentine's windows.

Natale - the most famous pastry shop in Lecce - mixed up Valentine's and Carnival sweets and arranged a little red hearted window.

I hope I could get some of their delicious flavoured chocolate ice creams(when it will be warmer than these days!)

Ps. Thanks to Sara, Felicity and Marta for being new readers!

True Chocolate Biscuits

2012-02-08T14:20:00.000+01:00

Dopo aver cercato in lungo e in largo per il web una ricetta per dei biscotti al cioccolato che fossero fatti di VERO cioccolato (e non averla trovata!) mi sono messa d'impegno - penna e calcolatrice alla mano prima, ciotola e farina poi - per creare la giusta ricetta: dopo ben tre tentativi con tre diversi cioccolati (fondente, of course!) questo è il delizioso risultato!... Totalmente organic e totalmente vegan ;)

Premessa: le dosi che seguono sono liberamente reinterpretabili a seconda del cioccolato che vorrete usare. Ovviamente ve ne consiglio uno biologico che presenti una lista di ingredienti non più lunga di "Pasta di cacao - burro di cacao - zucchero", questo perchè è proprio il cioccolato e la sua qualità a fare buoni i biscotti e, in particolare, a rendere semplice a voi la preparazione. Tutto si basa, infatti, sul modulare gli ingredienti della tavoletta con farina e burro. La percentuale di cacao della tavoletta è una questione di gusti. Se vi piace il sapore amaro del cioccolato userete quello al 70% di cacao, non vi consiglio di scendere tanto al di sotto di questa percentuale!

TRUE CHOCOLATE BISCUITS
Tavoletta da 100 gr di Cioccolato Fondente al 70%
125 gr di Farina
75 gr di Margarina non idrogenata
40gr di zucchero di Canna

Sciogliere lentamente a bagno maria 1) il cioccolato fondente 2) la margarina (non idrogenata, mi raccomando!:) e 3) lo zucchero di canna. Aggiungeteli uno dopo l'altro fino a quando non è tutto fuso.Versate il liquido nella ciotola con la farina e mescolate prima con il mestolo di legno. Formate una palla che lavorerete con le mani. Ora stendere la pasta e ritagliare dei biscotti con la forma che più preferite... io non avevo gli stampi a forma di cuore e quindi ho usato uno stampo profondo in silicone diviso in 10 cuiricini (ed ho ottenuto dei super biscotti!).Cuocere in forno a 200 gradi per circa 10 /15 minuti (non bruciateli!)Spolveratelidi zucchero a velo quando sono freddi e mangiateli in compagnia sul divano :) Enjoy!

I've been spending a week google-ing a good recipe for chocolate biscuits made with REAL chocolate but I couldn't find anything satisfactory so I decided I had to go it alone. And so I did! Here it is... 100% organic and 100% vegan!

Preamble for USA usa and UK readers: I've been not able to try this recipe adapting the common chocolate bar amount of chocolate and then start from that amount of chocolate to make biscuits... but I want to share this recipe anyway! I just changed everything in onces... I hope it would work! Let me know id you try it!

TRUE CHOCOLATE BISCUITS

3,5 OZ bittersweet chocolate (70% chocolate)
4,4 OZ flour
2,6 OZ margarine
1,4 OZ brown sugar

Gently melt (water bath!) chocolate, add margarine and then brown sugar until everything is perfectly melted. Slowly spill the liquind on the flour and mix together until it make a dough you can give it an heart shape. Bake for 10 minutes in 400 F oven.
Let the biscuits chill and then serve them on the sofa to your closest person :)

xxx, Lara

Romeo

2012-02-06T20:48:00.000+01:00

I've got a real cat crush !

Deep Dish Night

2012-02-06T11:53:00.000+01:00

Sabato scorso io ed Alf abbiamo vissuto la più romantica delle esperienze domestiche: preparare insieme la Deep Dish Pizza.

Se avete un ralezione speciale di certo saprete della tacita lista di esperienze fonte di realizzazione per la coppia. Potrebbe trattarsi di portare insieme il cane a spasso la domenica mattina, potrebbe essere andare a correre al parco assieme una volta alla settimana o guardare la prima dell'ultimo film di Woodie Allen per ogni film di Woody Allen (e in questo caso avete un uomo molto paziente;) : per ogni coppia c'è una piccola avventura che si compie più o meno spesso e che, tacitamente conosciuta da entrambi, realizza, più o meno tacitamente, una immensa felicità.

Non avevo avuto alcun dubbio, appena ho conosciuto Alfio e me ne sono perdutamente innamorata, che (messi da parte viaggi, gruppi musicali e serie tv demenziali) avremmo condiviso sempre una incontenibile passione per il cibo. Nel mio mondo, peraltro, incontrare un ragazzo che ne sapesse di vini e non si intimorisse nel mangiare una pesca mi fece ricredere nel genere maschile nonchè mi fece sentire la donna più fortunata dell'universo (sensazione che tutt'oggi permane e che sono certa molte di voi condivideranno con me!).

La nostra esperienza #1 nella lista era forse un po' elaborata e ci è costata nell'ordine: un raffreddore nel reparto frigo del centro commerciale per scegliere il formaggio adatto a riempire la nostra deep dish; una corsa -allora di chiusura dei supermercati - per cercare il lievito adatto a fare una pizza; un marciapiede superato con una utilitaria come fosse un hammer. Varie parolacce. Due ore di preparazione. Qualche bacetto.

Una visione senza alcun prezzo: il mio uomo che stende la pasta della pizza.

Spero abbiate trascorso un bel week end... magari facendo la vostra esperienza romantica #1! Sono curiosa di sapere qual è! :)

Last Saturday Alf and I lived the most romantic "at - home experience" : we cooked Deep Dish Pizza.

If you are in a special relationship I'm sure you know that unspoken list of experience that make you and your partner reach the highest "fulfilment level": it could be to go out together and take the dog for a walk on Sunday morning, it could be to go runnig together once a week or to go watchin the last movie by Woody Allen (and your man should be very patient!;) : for each couple there is a little adventure that you live everyday or once in a while and that makes you feel everytime very very happy.

When I met my boyfriend (and madly fell in love!) I did not have any doubt about that we were goning to share - except travels, music and nonsense tv shows - a crazy passion for food.In my own world to meet a guy who knows lots about wine and he's not scared of eating a peach or something veggie made me appreciate the whole male world and also made me feel the luckiest gal in the world ( and I still have that feeling.. I'm sure many of you know what I'm talking about!).

Our #1 experience was a little complicated maybe and it involved (in chronological order): a cold and gazillion hours in the fridge section at the mall to choose the perfect mozzarella cheese to stuff with our deep dish; a crazy run (at closing time!) to get the yeast for the pizza; a sidewalk hit like I had a SUV (instead of my economy car); four letter words. Lots of them; two hours in the kitchen; kisses (not too many before it was done actually);

A priceless scene: my man kneading pizza dough.

Hope you had a good week end living your #1 romantic experience: I would LOVE to hear what is it! :)

xxx, Lara

Hot toddy and others

2012-02-03T15:05:00.000+01:00

A causa del terribile freddo che ha colpito l'Italia in questa settimana ormai agli sgoccioli ho deciso di bere, fuori con gli amici, uno dei miei drink invernali preferiti: l'hot toddy! Ottimo per sostituire il "solito" sidro di mele che prendo al pub e per riscaldarmi dal freddo gelido (del Salento) e dalla fredda neve (del Piemonte). L'unico problema era che in quello che ho provato io c'era un po' troppo chiodo di garofano... Che ne dite? Vi piace l'hot toddy o non l'avete mai provato? Qual è il vostro drink invernale?

Because of the cold weather that stunned everyone in Italy this week I wanted to have something that really could warm me up instead of my beloved apple cider.

I had no doubt and went for an hot toddy! This is one of my favourite winter drinks but the one I had just had a problem: too much clove in it. So I wonder... what do you think about it?

Have you ever had hot toddy or have you any special winter drink? I'd love to hear :)

Have a great week end!xxx, Lara

For your special friend who love natural things: Luli Grun

2012-02-02T23:12:00.000+01:00

Adoro quando gli stilisti sanno reinventarsi utilizzando materiali riciclati nelle loro creazioni.. del resto lo sappiamo tutti, riciclare aiuta noi e il mondo che ci circonda.

Ho da poco scoperto LuliGrun, un marchio che utilizza per i suoi accessori dei materiali prevalentemente riciclati.

Giocando e sperimentando con avanzi di tessuto di scarto, i pezzi realizzati subiscono una continua evoluzione fino a diventare dei veri gioielli in tessuto.Fin dall'inizio, lo spirito del marchio, ha come obiettivo realizzare accessori di alto livello che siano veri protagonisti del nostro abbigliamento.Così, ogni linea, ogni tipologia è stata pensata, progettata e sviluppata estrapolando le idee più sostanziali e fondamentali dall’ambiente naturale che ci circonda. D’ispirazione prevalentemente biologica e naturale, si parte dal presupposto di considerare ogni pezzo come un'ottima opportunità per promuovere lo sviluppo della linea di prodotti in ambito "eco-concettuale".

Il punto di partenza della collezione è la spirale ed è realizzata con multipli giri di nastri di cotone, riciclato, fino a formare cerchi di diverso diametro.Un'altra tecnica utilizzata è quella di piegare i tessuti che in base alla pressione utilizzata e alla superficie di contatto ci consentono di ottenere le più svariate forme.Questi supporti di base, a loro volta, vengono combinati con una vasta gamma di materiali occasionali, per la maggior parte provenienti dal riciclo di vecchi nastri, plastica, gomma, ecc.

Non sarebbero perfetti per impreziosire un outfit estivo? ..o per l'amica speciale che compra solo bio? :)

ps. Il mio pezzo preferito della collezione sono le borse eco sostenibili... dateci un occhiata :)

I really love when styilists can use recycled materials in their creations... I truly belive that recycling is always important even when it involves fashion! ... What do you think about this side of fashion?

I've just found LuliGrun, a brand that use recycled materials to create beautiful accessories. Encountered as an experimental line, playing with odds and ends of discard cloths, these pieces evolved and became in really textile jewels.From its beginning, the brand’s spirit pointed to move the product from the secondary role of complement item in which its usually located in order to move to a focus scene, performing as the key apparel players.Thus each line; each typology is designed and developed extrapolating our own costume techniques in order to apply them to the development of our designs. Rolling, holding, building and deconstructing; exploiting each material’s features to infinity.Inspired mostly on organic and natural items, it arises from the premise of considerating each item as an excellent communicational environment; promoting the development of an eco-conceptual line. These items aims to devise awareness about various ecologial issues, our way of rendering back to nature certain damage, resembling a closing loop.They perform their products based on the combination and set of several techniques and materials. Their key support, the spiral, is designed based on cotton tapes that are carefully rolled forming circles of varied diameters. They also use the folding technique, according to the pressure and contact surface they bring off the most varied figures. These key supports are also combinated with a wide range of materials, most of them arise from recycling aged tapes, plastics, rubber, etc.

Wouldn't they perfect to make more precious your summer outfits?... or would you give them as a present for your "organic obsessed" friend? :)

ps. My favourite piece in their collection are the eco leather bags.. check them out :)

How to leave a sweet -unexpected!- message

2012-02-01T21:03:00.002+01:00

My dear Love, before I leave I couldn't help but eating one of your delicious chocolates! I love you.

Da oggi voglio condividere con voi una serie di post tutti dedicati a San Valentino e, un po' più in generale, all'amore e alle persone cui vogliamo bene siano esse la persona che ci fa battere il cuore da anni, la nostra migliore amica (spesso la vera anima gemella!) o semplicemente la cotta del momento... Spero possiate divertirvi o trovare quanche ispirazione! Enjoy! xoxo

From today I want to share with you a new series of posts all about Valentine's and Love : that Love we fell in when we met that special guy (even if we met him ages ago!) or that love we feel when we talk to our best friend (is she our real soul mate maybe?!)... or we can just chat about a new crush! I hope you will enjoy this or find some inspirations! Enjoy! xoxo

Per inaugurare questa nuova serie voglio parlarvi di un piccolo trucchetto per sorprendere la persona che amiamo quando si sta per partire, o si lascia il suo appartamento dopo un week end insieme o semplicemente si sta un po' di tempo da soli... con il suo computer! Non mi riferisco al solito post it sul frigo, infatti.

Quanto siete in intimità con la persona con la quale uscite / siete sposati / amate? Se il laptop della vostra metà non è un oggetto off limits (beh, questo dovreste proprio saperlo;) basta accenderlo lontano da occhi indiscreti e cambiare l'immagine del desktop con una tenera, divertente oppure hot (!) a vostra scelta... e chissà che sorrisone farà la vostra persona amata!

To start this new series I want to share with you a little trick to surprise that person you love when you are leaving for a long trip or you are just leaving his apartament after a romantic week end together... or whenever you can spend a few minutes alone with.. his computer!I'm not talking about an ordinary message on the fridge, so: are you on familiar terms with the person you are dating / married with / in love to feel allowed to use his personal laptop? If his computer his not in an off limits area in your relationship (...and I think you should know that!;) you just have to switch it on when he's not looking and change the desktop picture with the funny, sweet or hot (!) one you want to be everyday in front of him... and just wander how happy would he be!

Questa è la foto che ho scelto: ho ritagliato la mia faccina divertita la sera del suo complenno:

e voi cosa avreste scelto?

This was my choise: a close up of my face on his birthday night !

What would you choose?

xxx, Lara

Snowy week end in Turin

2012-01-31T15:18:00.002+01:00

Lo scorso week end ho abbandonato il Salento alla volta della (inaspettatamente innevata) Torino...

Non vedevo nevicare da anni, così tanto poi...! Sabato scorso, abbandonato ogni timore

(dovuto alla mia proverbiale goffagine sulle superfici gelate!) ho fatto una lunga passeggiata

per le vie del centro insieme ad Alf fino a raggiungere il Museo del Cinema

(all'interno della Mole Antonelliana)

.. una delle tappe torinesi che ancora mi mancava. Per questa settimana è previsto un freddo inaudito:

mai così freddo da 27 anni a questa parte!

E voi...siete scettici o metterete il piumino? ;)

Last week end I left the beautiful south and flew to Turin where a massive amout of snow astonished me

like I was a child!

I didn't see snow from ages because where I live it doesn't snow so very ofter

(it doesnt snow at all acutally;)

I'm not good at walking on snowy roads..I feel goofy and I'm always afraid to fall down but last Saturday

I definitely wanted to go out with Alf so we had a long walk across the town and went to the

National Cinema Museum of Turin, an amazing museum located inside of the Mole Antonelliana.

This week is gonna be the coldest one from 27 years... would you belive that? ;)

xxx, Lara

A sweet Thursday

2012-01-25T22:52:00.002+01:00

Today I went out with a friend to have a cup of herbal tea at our beloved Caffè Alvino.

We had a walk and se helped me to find a good heart shaped mold to bake chocolate cookies.

I couldn't wait and I baked them when arrived at home because I wanted to try my new recipe...

In a few weeks it will be Valentine's! I have to get ready :)

Any special ideas?

xxx, Lara

Our stay in Perugia

2012-01-18T22:23:00.001+01:00

After two days in Florence we left Tuscany and took the train to Perugia, a beautiful town in the very heart of Italy. Perugia is located in the middle of Umbria, one of the most full of history region of Italy.

I've never been in Perugia before but Alf did as a kid so he was happy to came back there with me.

On one hand we wanted an all relax stay just to chill out and enjoy the time together, on the other hand we knew we needed that time to spend just watchin tv in bed or having long breakfasts together because of the many things to do on January (I'm already overwhelmed!) and the small time that would be left for the two of us.

On November I found a lovely on line deal to stay at the luxurious Relais dell'Olmo.

This place is in the neighbourhood of Perugia, half an hour far from the centre, so you have to get the train and the (amazing!) mini metro to go there. The mini metro experience was real fun.. basically it's a cableway ..but so much cooler!

This was our room: simple and comfortable (vices included!). We had pay tv and jacuzzi.. but the most amazing thing was... breakfast in bed in the morning! I would live there :)

As told, the thing I loved the most was our breakfast in bed... we just had to hang out menu at the door and sleep well

(with no worries about "I wish to wake up in time for breakfast!")

...I miss so much this little treat that I secretly wish Alf could come and wake me up whispering "Breakfast sweetie.." :)

Unfortunally we had just half an afternoon for us to lounge around the beautiful town of Perugia... but I loved walk in Corso Vannucci and be amazed of Fontana Maggiore! Perugia is a town full of young people and we asked some friends of us that live there were to go to have an aperitivo and everybody told us to go to Ferrari , a longe bar in Corso Vannucci. It was cool but - honestly - we did not enjoy it so much... You can have an aperitivo for 5 euros but it's not so rich and tasty as many other we tried (in Lecce or Turin).

Then we had a romantic (but freeezing) walk in the smallest streets talking about everything... until I couldnt wait longer to come back to the relais to enjoy a bath in the jacuzzi! Fabulous! :)

...aaahh I wish I could have one right now!

Florence

2012-01-12T21:52:00.000+01:00

Florence was beautiful! We spent there our 4days vacation and it was the best place we could go: this city is for Lovers! Have you ever been in Tuscany or Florence?

Walking on thin ice

2012-01-10T22:55:00.000+01:00

Last saturday we said goodbye to the Christmas holiday with an ice skating date in Turin.

I'm not a good skater, definitely. I was very afraid before we get the ice rink: will I fall down and hurt my.. anything? Those kind of thoughts obsessed me during all my way but they suddenly desappeared when my boyfriend smiled at me and told me: I catch you if you fall down... How could I not believe him? :) The bonus were our friends Mario and Betta who helped me and were so patient!

I did a great job skating.. but I always felt guilty thinking that Alf (who's a master of ice skating!)

spent all his time hangin around the rink hand in hand with me.

I insisted and let him run over the place with Mario for the last ride...they were so cool together.

And he can run so fast!! It was such an amazing performance! Bravo!

How are you in ice skating? I wish I could improve and become as good as my (beloved!) teacher :)

Lara

Late New Year's Eve

2012-01-09T22:53:00.002+01:00

Awfully late here are some pics about Last New Years eve! We had a romantic dinner at home and went to a party after midnight. It was one of my best nye ever... the dinner was so good and it was so lovely to chill out and cuddle in front of the fireplace... Last year we went to Paris. It was a good trip but this year, for the first time, I admitted to myself that the best way I should spend that special time was on the sofa with my Love! ...What did you do on NewYears Eve?

The party we went was quite cool... Many cool gals with their nice clothes.

I tried to do my best and choose this outfit!

What do you think? (I also took this Alf's pics because I think it was so handsome with that shirt;)

Lara

ps. I'm sorry for these crappy photos.. I did not bring the camera with me...

so that's my outfit according to my Iphone :)

Back from vacation! :)

2012-01-09T21:23:00.000+01:00

Firenze, piazza della Signoria

Hi folks! Alf and I are back from our italian trip... wooo! We had such a lovely time: visited Florence and the beuty of the middle Italy, we eat bistecca alla fiorentina and many different tasty foods, we relaxed in the jacuzzi and (...twice!:) we also had breackfast in bed! I would like to share our experience in the following posts.. If you like to see!

Hope you had lovely holiday and - above all - I wish you have a perfect 2012!

Lara

A week in 4 breakfasts

2011-12-29T17:07:00.000+01:00

... I can't wait for our vacation for more delicious breakfasts with my love :)

Did you have any special treath for breakfast on Christmas time?

Lara

Greetings from Australia

2011-12-28T19:20:00.003+01:00

Yileen.. you are the best!

Lara

ps. Thanks for following to Courtney, Claudia, MyFreeChoise

Christmas

2011-12-25T20:06:00.004+01:00

I wish you had a lovely Christmas :)

Lara

Fondue and Love

2011-12-22T20:11:00.001+01:00

Yesterday my friend Jane invited us to her house for a lovely french dinner. Jane has got an half of french blood and she prepared us a delicious fondue... mixed to some italians specialities that everyone of us took for dinner

The vibe was very relaxed, we talked and laughed a lot and took some pictures. Jane built up an enormous Christmas village.. as big as the wall! We had dinner in the same room and that view was very warm and made everything cozy.

I didn't have a meat fondue from ages... It was good and perfect to share because it was really cold outside.

These two pics of my friend Eliana and her Franco almost make me cry... they are so beautiful together!

Hope everyone of you is having a good week... are you counting down the days untill Christmas?.. I am!

xxx, Lara

ps. Thanks to Moda for being a new reader!
Please, feel free to join my blog on GFC! :)

Last year ramblings

2011-12-19T20:41:00.001+01:00

Last year Alf and I went to Paris to spend new years eve... It was a short but vibrant trip and I came back home full of new plans, happy and also spoilt because of the nights we spent out eating at the bistro and drinkin champagne :) This year - mostly because of the economic crunch - all of my friends are staying home or having just local trips not involving hotels, motels, hostels, b&b etc...

I though we had to do the same but - I can't still belive it! - I've found an amazing on line deal (amazing means a two numbers amount of money!) so we are gonna spend four days away and visit the beautiful Toscana and Umbria! We'are gonna stay in a four stars hotel with jacuzzi and beauty salon!

What are your plans for this Christmas time? Would you indulge yourself a travel or will you stay warm at home with your close friends?

You can read here all the posts about Paris ... Hope you had a good start of the week! I can't wait for Friday night to come!

xxx, Lara

iBets party !

2011-12-18T23:08:00.002+01:00

This one should be the most representative picture of the week end.

I've been in Turin for the week end to celebrate Betta's graduation (yay for you!) and and an advanced Christmas with Alf's family!

Are you ready for the last pre Christmas week?

xxx, Lara

In the heart of Rome

2011-12-15T20:28:00.001+01:00

More pics of my beutiful capital: Via Condotti and Piazza di Spagna in the first pics. Trinità de' Monti in the second one. We had just a little walk on monday night so it wasn't so busy even the coolest boutiques!

And now the great question: what was I doing when Cat took this pics? No idea.

What are your plans for the week end? Tomorrow I'll leave for Turin... This is really a creazy week :)

xxx, Lara

Lara, Cat, Ana (and Vitellozzo!)

2011-12-14T18:02:00.001+01:00

Sunday was spent in Ariccia, a lovely spot in the roman countryside. We went eating fraschette and indulge ourself a lazy long afternoon just walking and chatting in the beautiful place. here are some funny shots!

Could you guess who is that strange man behind me in the following pics?

Vitellozzo help us to take all these pictures and made us laugh so badly :) Thank you!

Colosseo by night (Roma)

2011-12-14T14:18:00.000+01:00

Here are some pics of the most famous roman beauty: the Colosseum ! I took them last Saturday night when coming back home after a long an beautiful day. More pics are coming :)

xxx, Lara

The little Christmas tree

2011-12-08T20:00:00.001+01:00

Today was a good vacation day! Bank holyday, I went to my aunt for lunch and she prepared delicious lasagne. Everyone brough something and I decided to buy some gelato to put on the delicoius cake my causin made... we worked like a great team :)

The weather was glorious and many of my friends left the town for the long week end.

I just wanted to chill out at home: this was the right chance to put the Christmas decoration on and eat chocolate with mum.

On Saturday I'll leave for 3 days in Rome, where a close friend invited me for his graduation party. Can't wait to be in our capital :)

Hope you had an adventurous day and ... enjoy the upcoming week end!

xxx, Lara

Money Scouts

2011-12-07T15:39:00.001+01:00

Here it is : an old purse full of Lira coins.

It's a bit hilarious to find this little treasure right today, when everyone in Italy is facing the truth and the hottest topic is recession. Gas is up to a ridiculous price so puncted bikes were brought to life, all of my friends are staying home on Christmas time and my boyfriend and I felt very lucky when we found an amazing on line deal. (we'll be off to Florence for a couple of days:)

Tomorrow it's gonna be bank holyday... what are your plans for the week end? I'm all thrilled about decorating home with mum!

xxx, Lara

Ps. Belive it or not I've also found two pence!

Gold and old

2011-12-05T14:50:00.001+01:00

My huge interest in ancient jewels starts with my mum's watch. It's not a jewel and it has not an high market value but - obviously - it is a priceless watch for me. It use to be always five minutes late and sometimes it goes in his own world but I can't complain, it was one of the first things my dad gave to mum as present and I love it!

The golden bracelet came from my aunt Vanna. She gave it to me when I graduated with her best best wishes.

The withe elephant is made of bones and it came from India. It came from my aunt Anny. She travelled all over the world and I really hope to do the same in my life.

The mini sapphire ring came from my mum's close friend. She gave her this ring when she gave birth to me to wish her good luck for the new adventure she was going to live.

so.. everyday I can bring with me part of my family :)

xxx, Lara

Ps. Another amazing ring I fond of!

Have a great December!

2011-12-04T20:55:00.001+01:00

I wish you have a great December, full of people you love, parties and good food :)

xxx, Lara

ps. Thanks to Lizeth Carlon for the follow!

Little things

2011-11-24T21:10:00.002+01:00

Just watch this commercial and tell me what you think!

In my opinion it's one of the sweetest things on tv from ages.

Isn't the song lovely too?

xxx, Lara

ps. Happy Thanksgiving, Americans! :)

Last obsession: The Middle

2011-11-21T22:02:00.001+01:00

This is really my last obsession: I HAVE to watch every single episode... It is too funny!

My boyfriend is away for work and when I come back from university at night I don't feel so lonely (that's not true actually.. :) when I know I can watch their adventures!

The Hecks can really cheer me up! Have you ever watch this series?

My favorite character is Brick... How sweet is he? I can't stop laughing everytime she whisper to himself words like "Super Mario" or "Dork"... oh my god!

Have a look of the Brickpedia on the abc web site... it's really funny :)

In Italy you can watch their adventures on Italia2 every wednesday at 10pm!

(If you live in the Usa you can watch them on Abc channel or on streaming on the Abc web site!)

What's your favorite "cheer me up" show?

xxx, Lara

Photo: Abc

One day

2011-11-17T20:31:00.001+01:00

I'm looking forward to this week end because I'm going for a movie: One Day.

I know that this movie came out months ago in Usa and Uk so I'm sharing the brief plot line in italian for my italians readers...

Would you watch it ? :)

Dopo una giornata trascorsa assieme, il 15 luglio 1988 giorno della loro laurea, Emma Morley e Dexter Mayhew iniziano un'amicizia destinata a durare tutta la vita. Lei è una lavoratrice ambiziosa e di saldi principi, che sogna di trasformare il mondo in un posto migliore; lui è un ragazzo ricco e affascinante che pensa di fare del mondo il suo parco di divertimenti personale. Nel corso dei successivi vent'anni, il 15 luglio di ogni anno, i due vivranno momenti cruciali del loro rapporto. Seguiremo Dex ed Em, insieme e separatamente, attraverso la loro amicizia e i loro scontri, speranze e opportunità mancate, risate e lacrime.

Ps. Doesn't Anne Hathaway look gorgeous?

xxx, Lara

Photo: MyMovies.it

People celebrating...

2011-11-08T15:31:00.001+01:00

It's been a very hectic 2weeks session of study, work and mess... But we found the time to celebrate Alf's birthday.

I'm so sorry for being absent from the blog... from this week I'm coming back to regular post schedule. I promise!

Those pics were taken at La Cantinella (Torino) .. a romantic resturant were we had good meat and nice wine. I can recommand it but it is a very very small place so you neet to book and be patience if the guy next table is laughing too loud..

Happy Belated Birthday to my Love ... I wish you all the best!

xxx, Lara

ps. Thak you to Mind the Style for the follow ... Ciao Emily! :)

the Breakfast series

2011-10-27T13:42:00.001+02:00

Hot milk + organic barley ; Petite biscuits + speculoos biscuits

Today I'm starting with something new: the breakfast series.

I'd like to share my favorite time of the day that is breakfast. I LOVE having breakfast and I can't just think about leaving the house without having it. I can eat something small ... but I have to.

My second vice is that I can't have the same breakfast for two consecutive days.

Hope this could be funny for you :)

Have a great day!

xxx, Lara

Lazy cat

2011-10-26T20:33:00.000+02:00

Love. You.

xxx, Lara

Funny Couple Portraits

2011-10-24T13:07:00.002+02:00

Aren't these couple portraits just LOVELY?

They are from Gabrielle Brittney, a young New York illustrator and graphic designer and blogger full of talent.

She makes personalized custom couple portraits and you can find how to order the perfect one on her

Etsy Shop!

Wouldn't it be a surprising Christmas (...or Valentine, anniversaray...) present for your soul mate?

I'm thinking about special items that could represent my boyfriend and me as a couple because you can add them to the portrait to make it more particular and all the things that came to my mind made my laugh!

Would you have a custom portrait of you and your love?

xxx, Lara

ps. Thanks to Lola (Bee.You.Tiful.You) and Cécile (L'armadio del Delitto) for being new readers!

Photos: Gabrielle Brittney

Book Shelf

2011-10-19T19:15:00.002+02:00

I can't belive how many things you can overstock on a blook shelf !

xxx, Lara

Nirvana visions from Tara Spicer

2011-10-17T17:42:00.001+02:00

Tara Spicer - It wasn't me

It is so beautiful to fall in love with somenthing new, expecially when it is art. I'm definitely in love with the amazing Tara Spicer and her eyes: she can catch feelings and express them through imagines full of different emotions.

This kid's look almost takes my breath away, it is so true!

Tara Spicer - Drenched in Magic

I also love this fanny girl with her umbrella... unfortunaly this acrilic on cavas paint has already sold!

Tara Spicer - Boat Lady

This is my favourite in her portfolio. This lady really makes me dream and she reminds me the famous Lady of Shalott. I wonder if Tara took inspiration from William Waterhouse!

Tara Spider - You and me and a pot of tea in the flower garden

As you can read going back with my posts, I descovered her just randomly.

I couldn't avoid to write her a loving congrats email just to tell her that this art really made my day.

You can find here blog here or have a look of the whole portfolio on her web site.

What do you think? :)

xxx, Lara

Photos: Tara Spicer - Nirvana Visions

Maria Rosa's story by Bertolini

2011-10-13T12:33:00.000+02:00

This is one of my mum's favourite cook book and it reminds her so many sweet memories about her mum and her life, when she was young.

Bertolini is a famous italian brand of cake ingredients and it was one of that kind of things that an housewife (in the 70s) really loved.

I've found this little book with its funny Maria Rosa's story very cool... what do yuo think?

xxx, Lara

Ps. Thanks to Demie and Antonio for the follow! You are welcome!

Postcard Present

2011-10-12T14:42:00.003+02:00

Today I received this lovely present from my sweet friend Yleen.

This post card came from Australia! .. It really made my day with its fairy colors.

As soon as I got it I've been searching for some infos about Tara Spicer , this amazing artist who called this pics Far Far Far Away (perfect name, don't you think?).. I'm so in love with her visionary art. Check out her web site and you will descover a new world!

Thank you so much Yleen... You are really a great friend and an amazing person! I'm so happy we met each others!

Do you like sending postcards al over the world? :)

xxx, Lara

Ps. Thank you so much to my new follower Erin !

Romeo wishes you a relaxing week end!

2011-10-07T13:35:00.001+02:00

This week end won't be so relaxing for me because I've got classes on Saturday. But on Sunday I'll go to a holy baptism celebration... a newborn (baby son of a friend of mine) is gonna live his very first holy moment and I wish for him all the best!

Have a very relaxing week end!

xxx, Lara

Daytrip: Rivoli (Torino)

2011-10-05T12:38:00.001+02:00

Piedmont is an amazing region. Beautiful green spaces, mountains, rivers, hills and plain... there is everything here and everything is so beautiful.
Everytime we can, Alf and I, we love we playing around new villages and spending time open air. Last Saturday we played on the lovely weather and we had a daytrip to Rivoli, a small town only 15minutes from Turin.
This idea came from a friend. He suggested Alf to bring me to Rivoli because it is a romantic place and it's really nice to spend some time with your girlfriend there. He was definitely right!
Rivoli is the perfect day trip if you want to escape from the city and enjoy an amazing panorama. We went to the castle and spend some time sitting on a bench and watching Turin from above. Then, we went to the center and we stopped for lunch at Pane e Amore.

Have you ever been to Rivoli?

xxx, Lara

Fiera del Fumetto (Torino 2 Ottobre 2011)

2011-10-04T12:46:00.000+02:00

Domenica scorsa io e Alf siamo andati alla fiera del fumetto di Torino.

Dopo una mattinata di sonno e ozio sul divano, al pomeriggio ci siamo gioisamente recati in piazza Madama Cristina per spigolare tra le bancarelle in cerca di numeri mancanti e rarità... che divertimento! Mi sono ripromessa di non perdermi più una data!

La fiera occupava tutta la piazza e si è protratta dalla mattina fino al tardo pomeriggio. Noi siamo arrivati intorno alle 15,30 ed abiamo assistito ad una buona affluenza di gente di tutte le età (come al solito più adulti che ragazzini... :)

Sempre super gettonati i super eroi della Marvel. Io (che ho collezionato l'Uomo Ragno per quasi dieci anni)... stavo per farmi tentare e riprendere la serie Ultimate, una collana nata nei primi anni 2000 e pensata per le nuove generazioni di lettori e che al liceo mi piaceva davvero un sacco. Ma alla fine ho desistito (causa ingenti problemi di spazio in casa...) e mi sono gettata con Alf alla ricerca dei numeri mancanti dalla sua collezione Dylan Dog.

Per l'occasione, Alf è stato molto più ispirato di me (in tuta e occhiali) e ha indossato una nerdissima maglia di Dragon Ball comprata negli States...! So cool!

Le ricerche sono state super fruttuose: abbiamo trovato il Dylan Dog numero 1 (in seconda ristampa)... e abbiamo scoperto che il lo stesso numero della prima edizione vale ben 150 euro!

Esilarante, invece, è stato imbattersi in questa cosa di cui sia io che lui ignoravamo l'esistenza ma che abbiamo scoperto essere una chicca del trash: Dick Drago ... wow.

La recentissima morte di Sergio Bonelli ha sicuramente portato molti giovani lettori a riscoprire vecchie glorie.Io, ad esempio, ho spulciato con piacere alcuni numeri di Zagor, uno dei miei preferiti.

...e poi puoi trovare anche chicche come questa :)

xxx, Lara

Oh my God, what's this?!

2011-10-03T23:07:00.001+02:00

What (TF) is THAT?!

xxx, Lara

...if I were in Paris

2011-10-03T13:17:00.000+02:00

Paris, January 2011 - breakfast in Saint Germain des Pres

Today I wish I were in Paris just to have this super delicious breakfast and playing around Montmartre. And you? Where would you like to be?

xxx, Lara

A long week end

2011-09-29T12:52:00.000+02:00

My lovelies, my week end it's gonna start on Thursday this week! Hoooraayyy :)

I'm going to Turin to my boyfriend's house to spend some days with him...I can't wait!

What are your plans for the week end? I've got a very long list!

On Friday we are going to the cinema and watch Rise of the planet of the apes and I'm pretty curious and excited 'cause I've been lonving the classic one. Then on Saturday we are planning a little trip away from the city (we still don't know wher or how actually) and we are gonna meet up with some friends in the night.

On Sunday he wants to take me to a comic fair! I'm thrilled about that! I could wear my plaid shirt with no worries.. :)

Have an amazing week end!

Miei cari, questa settimana il week end inizia di giovedì per me! E ne sono ben felice perchè andrò a stare dal mio ragazzo per un paio di giorni :)

Abbiamo un sacco di programmi allettanti: per prima cosa andare a vedere L'alba del Pianeta delle Scimmie , un film che mi alletta particolarmente dato che la versione del '68 è nell'elenco dei classici che consiglio a tutti di vedere. Sabato abbiamo in programma una gita fuori porta (dai contorni ancora non ben definiti...) e una serata da trascorrere probabilmente con amici.

Domenica, invece, Alf vuole portarmi ad una fiera del fumetto che si terrà in centro a Torino (qui qualche info in più per chi fosse interessato).

Dopo aver studiato millemila ore, seguito ristrutturazioni e sventrato armadi solo nei primi tre giorni della settimana... mi sembra un week end più che meritato!

Divertitevi là fuori! :)

xxx, Lara

Photo: eighteen lines

A bag for Love

2011-09-29T09:27:00.000+02:00

My lovelies, I'm gonna spend this week end at my boyfriend's house.
As usual, I'm bringing some clothes, make up, pajamas and magazines with me and I'm gonna use my blue trolley (that travelled -almost- all around the world!)... but wouldn't be just perfect and glam to have this super chic Longchamp?

Cosa ne dite... Vi piace questa La Pliage di Longchamp? Da quando la mia amica Anastasia mi ha fatto vedere quanto è comoda la sua vorrei tanto averne una anche io... ottima come bagaglio a mano (anche con Ryanair) e dal gusto chic e anche un po' à la maschietto ... mi fa impazzire!

xxx, Lara

Photo: via

Cream tea

2011-09-27T13:18:00.000+02:00

Durante la gita a Sidmouth ho avuto l'occasione di provare uno dei piccoli riti inglesi di cui tanto la mia amica Cat ci aveva parlato: il Cream Tea.

Che quello inglese del tea fosse un rito dotato di una sacralità estremamente affascinante l'avevo già constatato molte volte a Londra, dove si trovano tea rooms di tutti i tipi. Questa volta però, lontano dalla città e con lo scenario della costa, è stata un'esperienza del tutto diversa.

A Sidmouth abbiamo visitato i meravigliosi Connaught Gardens e già che eravamo lì abbiamo pensato di fermarci per il tea in un posto chiamato The Clocktower Cafè. La scelta qui era ampia: il classico english breakfast, il lunch, ma soprattutto una vasta scelta di torte dall'aspetto invitante e davvero delizioso. Ovviamente, c'erano anche i classici scones, parte essenziale della cerimonia del tea delle 5 (ma che, vi assicuro, ho visto prendere agli orari più disparati del pomeriggio e non solo :)

Il cream tea è una specialità del Devon -per questo è anche chiamato Devon Cream Tea- ed è un rito che si compone di tea (generalmente nero), scones, marmellata e clotted cream.

La differenza rispetto al tea londinese è che in questa parte della Gran Bretagna si aggiunge, appunto, la clotted cream, una crema di latte densa e saporita da spalmere sugli scones, che invece sono dei piccoli panini dolci (alcuni farciti all'uvetta).

La differenza tra gli scones provati nel Devon, rispetto a quelli provati a Londra (buonissimi per me quelli di Cannizzaro's house!) sta nella dimensione. Nel Devon sono dei veri e propri panini dal diametro di 10cm o più, mentre a Londra sono grandi anche meno della metà. Sopra, ci si spalma la marmellata e la clotted cream... il tutto sorseggiando il tea e chiacchierando con le amiche! Delizioso!

Avete mai provato il Devon Cream Tea?

When in Sidmouth we went visiting Connaught Gardens and we stopped there to try this inviting spot with a breathtaking view over the coast: The Clocktower Cafè.

This place is really lovely and offer a good choice of delicoious homemade cakes. It also serves breakfast and lunch and, of course, Cream Tea.

If you go to Devon, Cream Tea represents something you can't rally miss.

This is a special habit also called Cornish Cream Tea or Devon Cream Tea and it is very popular in South West England.

Cream Tea means black tea with a combination of scones, clotted cream, and jam.

Scones are small quick bread with a sweet accent and Clotted cream is a thick and tasty cream made of cow's milk.The difference I realize exists between Devon scones and those I had in London (lovely and delicious tea ceremony at Cannizzaro's house!) is that in Devon scones are much bigger than in London.

Of course, the things that makes Cream tea so special is clotted cream that I didn't had in London.

The cream tea ceremony includes lovely chats while drinking tea and eating creamed scones :)

Have you ever had it?

xxx, Lara

ps. Se vi piacciono gli smalti qui c'è un delizioso giveaway! :)

Simple pleasure

2011-09-26T13:02:00.000+02:00

Oggi inizia l'ultima settimana di Settembre... che bello, adoro questo periodo dell'anno! Tanti nuovi progetti, nuovi inizi e cose da fare per me! :)

Ho deciso di iniziare la settimana concedendomi un piccolo piacere che dovevo assolutamente condividere con voi: avete mai provato la marmellata di fichi e noci? E' una specialità corsa ed è assolutamente de - li - zio - sa ! Ne ho preso un vasetto in vacanza nonostante non l'avessi mai provata durante il soggiorno in Corsica (un po' autunnale, mi sono detta...). Stamattina ho deciso di provarla e... yuuum..!

Today is the first day of the last week of September! :)

I love this part of the year...there are so many upcoming things to do and many experience to live and everything seem to be so cozy on Autumn!

Today I decided to try this special fig and walnut jam I bought in Corsica last summer. I didn't try it there and this morning when I opened up the jar and had a teaspoon of it I was stunned: absolutely delicious!

It was a good breakfast surprise at the start of the week!

What's your simple pleasure you can't really resist?

xxx, Lara

Travel Story: Sidmouth (Sept. 2011)

2011-09-23T11:50:00.002+02:00

We spent our last day in Devon having a trip to the jurassic coast , in the lovely sea town of Sidmouth .
Early in the morning we took the bus from Exeter and we arrived in Sidmouth about one hour later, ready to live a perfect Sunday escape in this beautiful town full of old people and delicious fish and chips.
We stopped for a few minutes in the central church and its graveyard where we admired very old gravestones while singing The Smiths in our heads...

Then we went to the beach where we played throwing stones into the sea and taking photos of each others.
After eating a deliciuosly fresh fish and chips in a little spot on the seafront, we went to the botanic gardens, an out of time place on the high rocks just in front of the sea. There were so many senior families with their beautiful dogs, lovely flowers and benches with very touching dedications like this one.

It is so lovely, don't you think? Things like this really make me cry... I wish to have in my life the same love that Ethel and Edith had. I though abouth them and in my imagination they have Sunday walks on the beach and smell all those beautiful flowers in the botanic gardens. And then, they just stay on that bench, in front of the sea, watchin the sunset and feeling the fresh breeze that come when the sun goes down.

I wish you have a lovely week end!

xxx, Lara

Travel Story: London + Exeter (Sept.2011)

2011-09-22T14:23:00.002+02:00

About 3months ago, my friends Ana and Vitellozzo booked our flights for London to spend there a long week end the following September. All of us were really excited because we wanted to have a trip together since our last one (Berlin, 2008).
The right chance to leave all together came from Cat: she moved to Exeter for some months and we didin't see her from February so we decided it was time to go to England.
I didnt' have so much money to spend for this journey... After 2 weeks spent in Corsica and Sardinia on August I didin't have high budget so we had to be smart and orgainize a 4days England travel balancing fun, shopping, good food, beer and ...economic crunch! :)

Everybody knows that London is a crazy expansive city so we decided we wouldn't stay in hotel and we rented two little rooms in Russel square... much better than a hotel!
Everyday we went to Starbucks for breakfast. Here in Italy there are many interesting spots where you can go for breakfast but when abroad italians are always very curious (and sometimes amazed!) about going to Starbucks...And (of course!) Starbucks is quite cheap... I had so many teas and cinnamon cakes!
We used to get up between 7 or 8 am, we went breakfast and then we started our looong walk through the city (it was the first time in London for Vitellozzo).
I still can't belive how we see all the most popular spots in less than 48h! Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, London bridge... we went everywhere! And - of course - we went for shopping too... in Oxfors street and Soho ...my friend Ana bought everything at TopShop :)

On Saturday morning we took the train and left London... we arrived in Exeter about 3h later.
After meeting up with Cat at the train station we went to the center of the town that is beautiful and perfect for students and young people. I really suggest you to go to Exeter because it is such a lovely town and it's cheaper than London offering very good places to go eating, shops and pubs.

This is the beautiful cathedral (seen from the left). It has the longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling in England.
On Saturday afternoon we visit the city center (that it's full of life expecially on week end) and we had a delicious typical meal in a tea room just in front of the cathedral. I had sausages and smashed potatoes... delicious!

In Exeter we decided to stay in hotel and we choose the central Jurys Inn.. and it was perfect and affordable!
On Saturday night we went dancing with Cat's friends and we really enjoy the night! Exeter is really full of young people who want to have fun :)
I'm so happy I had the chance to visit the south west of England and I wish to come back and visit many others places like Bristol or Plymouth!

And you, have you ever been in Exeter or the South West of Uk? Have you got anything special to suggest? I would love to hear from you :)

xxx, Lara

Magic Pearls

2011-09-21T21:19:00.003+02:00

Questa è una storia che ha – perme e le mie scarse conoscenze mediche – qualcosa di inspiegabile.

A luglio dell’anno scorso,precisamente il 16 luglio 2010 (il giorno dopo il mio compleanno), in predaalla pazzia da fine degli esami, decisi che dovevo fare qualcosa di davveroindelebile, qualcosa che mi avrebbe ricordato per sempre la finedell’università.

Ebbene, non feci un tatuaggio come forse vi ho lasciato presagire (solol’idea mi terrorizza..brrr) ma mi gettai su qualcosa di decisamente più soft e allo stesso tempo molto menorivoluzionario di quanto i miei intenti potessero lasciar trasparire: i buchialle orecchie.

Non avendoli mai fatti da piccola(come avrete capito, sono un po’ fifona!) quello era il top della ribellioneche, a 24 anni appena compiuti, sentivo di potermi permettere.

L’idea di poter mettere anche iogli orecchini me l’aveva fatta venire un po’ anche il mio ragazzo e a furia diripetermi che mi sarebbero stati d’incanto (so sweet don’t you think?;) mispinse a immaginarmi adornata di oro, argento e altre piccole vanità femminili…e il gioco fu fatto! (almeno così credevo..).

Superata l’iniziale diffidenzaverso la pistola fora- orecchie (non una magnum come credevo), nel giro dipochi secondi – senza provare dolore alcuno e senza spargimenti di sangue!-avevo alle orecchie due deliziosi brillantini verdi incastonati in una lega altitanio a prova di allergie… bellissimo! Mi sentivo una principessa e nonpotevo fare a meno di specchiarmi nei laterali di ogni automobile parcheggiataper la strada… avete presente la sensazione? : )

Peccato che bastarono pochissimeore per gettarmi nel panico più totale : in farmacia mi avevano ordinato diruotare spesso gli orecchini sulla loro asticina per evitare che i buchipotessero richiudersi e in più dovevo spalmarmi sul lobo una creminaantibiotica. In realtà, però, bastava solo distendermi sul letto e poggiare la testasul cuscino per farmi provar un gran male a tutto l’orecchio… figuriamociruotare gli orecchini sull’asticina!

Questa storia andò avanti perqualche giorno e poi il dolore passò.

Ad un mese esatto dalla foraturafui autorizzata a togliermi i primi orecchini e da lì iniziarono i veri drammi:non riuscivo quasi mai a inserire i nuovi – bellissimi!-cuoricini senza l’aiuto di mia madre e ogni tentativo implicava dolore e, nonvi nego, anche qualche lacrimuccia. In pratica ero quasi pentita di essermiforate le orecchie!

Un pomeriggio di settembre fuproprio la mia mamma a prendere in mano la situazione e risolvere i miei (relativissimi)problemi: mi regalò un suo paio di orecchini di perle montate su argento, unpaio che aveva acquistato nei primi anni 90 presso un negozietto diantiquariato. Quegli orecchini – mi disse – avrebbero posto fine a ogni dolore.

Non so come abbiano fatto ma fuproprio così: li portai per solo un giorno e la sera stessa, quando li tolsi ibuchini erano cicatrizzati perfettamente, con tanto di crosticina... e potevo mettere e togliere qualsiasiorecchino!

La mamma sostiene che l’argentoabbia proprietà cicatrizzanti ma io, nel dubbio, continuerò a credere che miamamma abbia strani poteri … ;)

E voi? Quando vi siete forate leorecchie? Vi piacciono le perle? Vorrei tanto sentire le vostre impressioni!

xxx, Lara

Ps. Questa foto è la mia nuova foto profilo su Twitter... Voi lo usate? Potete aggiungermi cliccando qui ;)

First day of Autumn

2011-09-21T12:26:00.000+02:00

Today is the first day of Autumn! I'm so happy... the air is slowly getting colder and it is so lovely indulge yourself with a hot cappuccino and some chats on your sofa!

I've started this new season having breakfast with mum in our glasshouse on the balcony, eating speculoos and drinking warm cafè au lait ... and talking about our new projects!

Have a great Autumn peeps!

xxx, Lara

Photo: nhpe1 (he's got a really amazing Autumn photo set!)

Do you yoga?

2011-09-20T13:52:00.001+02:00

Yesterday I went to the gym and I entered my first class. I'm so happy and excited... I really wish to go as often as possible!..
In addition I'm thinking about doing some yoga. I use to do some poses every day for 10 or 15minutes after waking up but I would be so cool going to classes...
I wish there were this Jivamukti Yoga School in my town... do you know what it is? I've got some books about it and I think it is the perfect yoga school for me :)

Do you go to the gym or have any plans about entering some yoga classes this fall?

xxx, Lara

Photo: Wari Om Photography

Clarins Multi Blush

2011-09-19T21:08:00.002+02:00

Lo scorso week end ho ricevuto un graditissimo regalo da una persona cara: questo Multi Blush di Clarins.

Ho pensato di condividerne con voi una rapida recensione, dal momento che è un validissimo passpartout per ragazze dinamiche che vogliono essere glam... o semplicemente comprare un solo prodotto anzichè tre ;)

Ecco i miei pro e contro:

Pro: Si propone come un prodotto 3 in 1, ovvero blush per le guance, colore (discreto ma visibile!) per le labbra e ombretto leggero. E questo è un super pro perchè vuol dire portarsi in giro un solo prodotto anzichè tre.

Bisogna però vedere come fa tutte e tre le cose. Sicuramente è un fantastico blush! Illumina le guance rendendo tutto il viso subito più splendente... io lo uso senza fondotinta e devo dire l'effetto è super naturale!

E' un valido gloss, l'ho provato proprio ieri sera ma vi premetto che non amo i prodotti per le labbra che si applicano con le dita (quando sei in gro non è il massimo dell'igiene!) e, allo stesso modo, non essendo un prodotto biologico (vedi i contro) non lo userei sempre sulle labbra... ma queste sono scelte personali. Se cercate un bel gloss rosato (ma non lucido per fortuna!), questo prodotto lo è (e dura pure).

Come ombretto, invece, non ve lo consiglio: la texture non è sufficientemente cremosa. Certo, se proprio siete alle strette basta lavorarlo un po' e donerà alle vostre palpebre il colore che desiderate... ma non mi sento di consigliarlo per questa specifica funzione!
Il prezzo sembra un po' caro, ma non lo indicherò nei miei contro perchè questo prodotto, anche se usato tutti i giorni, sembra destinato a durare davvero tanto.

Contro: Questo non è un prodotto biologico. E questo, nella mia personalissima recensione, vuol dire molto male. Tuttavia lo userò con estremo piacere perchè amo l'effetto bonne mine che dona... :)

Voto: 7. Nella mia borsetta starà d'incanto!

Prezzo: Poco meno di 20 Euro.

Qualcuna di voi conosce già questo prodotto? Utilizzate Clarins nella vostra beauty routine?

xxx, Lara

Photo: via Limoni (dove potete anche acquistare on line Clarins Multi Blush!)

Do you have a journal?

2011-09-19T12:44:00.001+02:00

La settimana scorsa, a Exeter, ho comprato questo nuovo diario da Paperchase... vi piace? Ho scoperto questo brand grazie alla mia amica Caterina che, se potesse, comprerebbe in blocco tutto il negozio...come biasimarla del resto! :) Paperchase offre una vastissima gamma di prodotti di cancelleria come buste da lettera e carte da regalo.. tutte davvero molto cool!

Voi siete solite tenere un diario? Io l'ho tenuto ininterrottamente per quasi 10 anni ma negli ultimi due (da quando la vita è diventata super frenetica e i social networks hanno preso il sopravvento...) sono davvero una pessima narratrice di cronache... mi limito a descrivere rapidamente i miei pensieri e le note salienti della giornata! E voi? Vi piace raccontarvi?

Last week in Exeter I bought this super colorful journal from Paperchase.
I'm so in love with this brand ... you can find everything you need for your own stationery: cards, postcards, gift wrapping, envelopes... and everything is super cool!
Do you have a journal? I do ! I love writing about me and my experiences... but in this part of my life (very messy and consuming!) I don't have the time to write daily! What do you think about journals? Do you like the one I bought? :)

xxx, Lara

Waiting for Love...

2011-09-16T16:33:00.002+02:00

Oggi è venerdì... e questa serà vedrò il mio ragazzo.

Sono felice e anche un po' nervosa come ogni week end... E' così bello avere qualcuno che -nonostante il tempo che passa- riesce a farti battere il cuore, farti emozionare e addirittura essere quasi nervosa a poche ore dall'incontro,proprio come il primo giorno.

Che piani avete per il week end? Io e il mio fiancé abbiamo un estremo bisogno di relax insieme quindi sarà tutto molto lento... coccole, passeggiate, forse una cenetta romantica e ... ancora coccole :)

Vi auguro di trascorrere un week end semplice e con le persone che amate!

Friday, Friday... finally Friday!

Tonight I'm gonna pick my boyfriend up from the airport and I'm so happy and a little nervous at the same time! It is so strange how I feel everytime I see him.. I feel always like it was our first date ad it is so so beautiful!

What are your plans for the week end? I wish you have a simple one, rich of beauty and people you love!

xxx, Lara

ps. I've changed my email address! Now it is : lara.kasabian@gmail.com ...please, feel free to write me and say hello! :)

Photo: Candy Pop

London Rooms

2011-09-16T12:37:00.000+02:00

Ecco alcune foto del nostroaccogliente appartamento di Londra! La scorsa settimana ho trascorso inInghilterra un week end un po’ più lungo del solito… due giorni a Londra e duead Exeter, in Devon, dove la mia amica Cat si è trasferita per tre mesi per lavoro.

Presto vi farò un resocontodettagliato della vacanza… intanto vi mostro il nostro flat situato a RusselSquare, una zona centrale e comoda! Vi piace?

Here it is our little flat in London!

Last week I’ve been in England for a long week end with my friends(you’ll have the complete story as soon as possible!) and we spent two days in London and two days in Exeter where my best friend Cat moved forthree months.

We stayed in a tiny but lovely flat in Russel Square… Itwas very warm and cozy! Do you like it?

xxx, Lara

Gifts at the end of Summer

2011-09-15T13:28:00.000+02:00

Pomegranate candles (Tesco) and Iris and Laurel soap (Nesti Dante)

Green glass bracelet (vintage)


John Lennon's portrayed on paper (street artist called Raico)

Last weeks I received some lovely and totally unexpected gifts from my friends and my soul mate.

Scented candles and soaps to enjoy an endless and luxurious bath from two lovely friends... The green glass bracelet came from my cousin, she found it at the local flea market and she was so kind to think of me (who love green, glass and vintage :)

This amazing paint of John Lennon is from my boyfriend. He knew that I was in serch of something special for my new room and when we both saw this picture (and I fell in love!) he immediatly bought it. We are also great fans of the FabFour! What do you think about my choise to put it so close to the main window? I love it!

Do you like my new entries? What about Nesti Dante? I just found this new brend that is also very popular in England... did you know it?

xxx, Lara

About reading books

2011-09-14T16:41:00.002+02:00

My lovelies, today I want to talk with you about a problem that is upsetting me since about last three years: I just can’t finish any books I start reading.

I’ve been a very good reader for all my life and when I was at high school I used to read a new book almost every week. Since I started university (expecially the post graduate program three years ago) reading books has become very hard because I’m always tired and sometime my eyes hurts because of the time I have to spend studying or in front of my laptop.

There I started to read magazines and it makes me feel better because it helps to keep me “on the scene” (politics, fashion, travels or.. whatever!) and at the same time it helps me to improve other languages (I love reading french or american issues of the most popular fashion magazines… Vogue France est tres chic! ; )

On one hand I would really like to read novels again, but on the other I’m very afraid to fail and leave a new book (that maybe doesn’t deserve to be treated like that!) on my bedtable. It is very very frustrating!

Last summer I bought some little books of english writers’ short stories. The italian magazine L’espresso published a complete serie of modern english writers and I got Jack London and Anita Desai (the one you can see in the pics!)… It is a very good way to start reading again and I’m very happy that magazine had this clever idea!

Now I would really LOVE to hear from you: does anyone of you have the same problem? How many books do you read in an month?.. What’s your favourite moment during your day for reading a good book?

I would LOVE any reading tips you have… I know there are so many working mumas and so many smart gals who can always find the right balance and I would love to know how does your magic wander works : )

xxx, Lara

ps. Thank you so much, ZoryMory for the follow :)

He wants to come with me!

2011-08-02T11:32:00.001+02:00

This picture almost makes me cry: I left my case in the center of the room with some clothes in it.

My sweetheart understood I was getting ready everything for leaving home and wanted to come with me!

Oh Romeo, I'm so in love with you!

Have you got a cat? Or a dog?

I really think that animals can be your best friends sometimes, they can understand you and stand beside you when you feel lonely or sad. Have you ever tryed the feeling of having your kitten or your dog next to you on the sofa when it's fall and autside it's raining..? I'm so in love with my cat and my dog.. and I'm pretty surprised when I saw how perfectly the can live together! It's not strange... It's just nature :)

xxx, Lara

Planning for Corsica

2011-08-01T09:45:00.001+02:00

Lo scorso week end è trascorso quasi interamente sulpavimento di camera del mio ragazzo, pianificando le nostre tanto attese vacanzein Corsica.

Abbiamo programmato (quasi) tutto… sarà un viaggio per medavvero molto insolito: nessun albergo, solo tenda, automobile e imperdibiliavventure :D

Non vedo l’ora di partire e godermi una meritata pausa.

Siete mai stati in Corsica? Avete suggerimenti su tappeimperdibili?

Last weekend my boyfriend and I planned (almost) everything about our summer vacation.We’are going to Corsica and I can’t really wait.

It will bea very different kind of travel for me: no hotel, no reservation, just our carand … a tent! So many adventures arewaiting for us and I'm very happy to spend this summer in such a beautiful nature.

Have youever been in Corsica? Any spot to suggest?

xxx, Lara

Girlish Summer Shoes

2011-07-30T09:49:00.000+02:00

Victoria Shoes in purple


North Star Shoes in pink

Sto andando matta per queste scarpe dai colori decisamente teen… voi cosa ne dite?

Concedermi queste scarpe per andare al supermarket o a prendere il giornale mi fa sentire proprio in vacanza!

I’m going crazy for the funnyshoes you can see in these pics… do you like them? They have very girlish and“teen” colors… but I really like them because I feel like on holyday whilewearing them! Wooo

Enjoy your week end wearing funny shoes :)

xxx, Lara

A fresh surprise

2011-07-14T16:02:00.001+02:00

Last evening my aunt came with a very unexpected gift: some fresh handmade mozzarella di bufala from Caserta! My uncle and her went to' Campania for a day trip and visited us on their way back. ...with this delicious present!
It was so luxurious to eat a very fresh salad with tomatoes (that mum and I just picked up that morning), olive oil from our olive trees and oregano (made from my auntie's plants!).
The most exciting thing was to eat it in the quiet of our veranda, few steps away from the sea... Chatting and laughin with my family! It is such a beautiful pleasure!

xxx, Lara

p.s. Really wanna say thank you! to Ana Degenaar for the follow!

p.p.s. ..I'm so happy because tomorrow it's gonna be my birthday! Have a crazy week end!

Santa Domenica

2011-07-08T19:55:00.006+02:00

Since one of my closest friend invited me to her house in the deepest south of Salento we decided to take the chance and visit the very famous wonders of Santa Domenica.
I’ve been listening to my friends' tails about this majestic show for months so this was the right opportunity to spend a stunning night with lights, colors, music and a lovely wind that freshened the air up.

(questo credo proprio che sia un retaggio di due mondiali di calcio fa... ;)

Santa Domenica is the saint who take care and protect the small town of Scorrano, in the heart of Salento. The story tells that many centuries ago Santa Domenica saved the town from a huge epidemic disease: bubonic plague would kill the population but the saint worked magic and the town was safe. To give thank to her, everyone in the town put outside his window a little candle to light up the dark and be grateful to the saint.

That’s the reason why every year this town becomes the capital of light, with the most important light exhibition in Italy! Stunning colors, amazing fireworks, traditional songs and many stands with foods and typical products: my friend and I went crazy about it and indulged us a funny candyfloss!

Enjoy the second week end of July… I think I’ll go exploring new spots in Salento!

xxx, Lara

Spare photos

2011-06-30T18:13:00.004+02:00

xxx, Lara

Ps. So in late...but I'd like to thank Timeless is More for the follow :)

Let's go Cubs!

2011-05-13T21:23:00.006+02:00

Just found my new favourite sport!
Baseball can mix a stunning show open air and amazing food... I love it! I really liked that italian beef and sausage combo that my boyfriend suggested to try: nothing italian but a really great sandwich.. I still wander why is it called italian when it looks and tastes much more as a kebab!

I didin't know anything about baseball but it wasn't so hard to learn its rules.
Here in Italy baseball is not a popoular sport, we are soccer people and here nothing can be more exciting than a goal. I also faced with the fact that in my country sport is not always considered as a way to have fun with families: I used to go to the stadium with my dad and cousin but at the same time I know that here supporters of different teams have to be apart because of the sad violence acts that often worry this beautiful sport.
At the same time I noticed another difference between sports in the Usa and in my country: food. In the States I saw many people eating or drinking so many different meals and it was a natural thing, in Italy it's not like that. Here people is more polarized on the match, supporters organized their shows, with chours and sometimes bad language songs!
I think this time we have something to learn from americans: sport has to be only a way to enjoy, not a way to fight with each other. I also appreciated so much the fact that before every match they used to sing their national anthem... It is really touching!

****
Since a long time I'm thinking about writing some part of my blog in italian... I won't translate the english part into italian because I don't like it. I was more thinking about the chanse to write difference feelings or impressions in my mother language about each post. I started writing on this blog because I need to improve my english and practise it as much as I could here in Italy. I've never studied properly this language so I though this was the best way to keep it alive.
But sometimes this blog becomes the only instrument I have to tell about my self. That's the reason why -maybe- you'll find some italian lines between a pics or another... I hope to keep this promise also because some of my italian friends asked me that.

Detto questo... buona lettura a tutti :)

Lara

Chicago bike adventures

2011-05-13T20:27:00.002+02:00

Since the good season started I've been daydreaming about a bike week end trip in Salento. It would be the perfect way to spend a week end en plain air and had a chanse for a sweet excape for two because of the many romantic places like masserie in the area.
At the same time my boyfriend and I were planning a week of summer camping. It's easy to understand how we need some time together to spend open air doing that kind of activities that you can afford only during the summer (last year we tried canoa!) and, above all, we need to do something that could makes feel us closer in these very busy times.

When we realized that also in Chicago spring was blooming we though the best way to spend a gloriuos sunny day was renting a bike to the riverside... Nothing more to tell than that was the most exciting thing we did together as a couple. It seems such a simple thing but it was the first time for us: we started our bike trip at Millennium Park and we pedalled along the lakeside to Hyde Park and the Chicago University (so beautiful... could I move there for a Phd?!). Then we came back and our trip took about five hours... Both of us were exhausted while coming back to the hotel!

I suggest to everyone in Chicago to have this experience... I really had a good time!

Lara

Ps. this post was ready yesterday but the awful blogger break down stopped me... what happened?!?

About Mother's day

2011-05-11T13:21:00.005+02:00

Americans take mother's day seriousely, that's for sure!

In the Usa I found out how beautiful this day can be: flowers and celebrations everywhere, every shops had their own kind of celebrate with special menues in restaurants and lovely special brunches. Flowers shops were in bloom, as the whole town! Jeweleries created proper jewels to celebrate mums but the most amazing thing I saw was all the lovely people who crowned trains and airport (we left last Sunday) to reach their families!
Here in Italy we celebrate mother's day too but in a different way: every year I use to buy mum a flowers bouquet with an handmade card becuase in my area it is really hare to find this kind of cards.. I've always wandered why! So you can't imagine how I was surprised by all the funny, sensitive or simple mother's day card you can find in the Usa just going to Walgreens or Cvs... wooo!

I loved all the postcards found in the Usa.. I love writing and sending letters or postcards to my friends or relatives I can't see everyday, or just I like the idea to write down a cute thought for someone special and let it followed by funny pics.. and it is so hard to find here the right one!

What do you think about this way to celebrate mum's day? How did you celebrate?
I planned my vacations weeks before I realize that I would be away on Mother's day... but I booked a very beautiful bouquet that was delivered to mum on Sunday monrning so she found it when came back from the church. She phoned me and I heard she was really touched about that!

Lara

Just came back from the Usa!

2011-05-11T01:25:00.004+02:00

I came back yesterday from the States! It was a 10 days vacation really amazing... I've been again in Chicago (where I've been just last year for the first time in my life). This time was really different: my boyfriend and I were been free to explore a city we've already enjoyed as tourist (I did) and where he lived for six months, so this time we had the chanse to go to some beloved spots and do all those things we did't last year because of the season (I leaved on March and now the weather is totally different!).
I took so many photos, ad also my boyfriend did. I hope I can share an entire reportage of this experience and suggest to you interesting things to do where in the Usa (if italians) or highly recommanded spots to see where in Chicago (for everyone who is gonne be in the windy city.

Here some random pics of the city.. and next days I promis to post something more :) I'm really in love with the Usa, I think I'm gonna do my best to move them quickly... what do you think? Have a great night here in Italy (It's 2am and I'm suffering this damn jet leg! My body and my mind are still stuck in a different timeline!)

xxx, Lara

Ps. Thanks to Elettra for the follow!

Wednesday stop: Afrika!

2011-04-27T20:24:00.002+02:00

Today was a really tiring day spent between many work dates...
But I have a lunch break longer than my usual one! After discussing a lot with my friends about the place where to go eatin, we decided to go to a well knowed spot just a few minutes far from piazza Mazzini called Bambù. If you live or work in Lecce you know it for sure... This place is popular for its very rich and cheap aperitivo and it's always very busy expecially on lunch time.
I was happy to eat there because this bar has got an African inspired style (with bamboo chairs of course and so colorful walls!). I like it so much because this is not an etnic bar (not at all!) but at the same time it makes me remember an old film I really fond of : Green Card. In this film there are a young Gerard Depardieu and a younger Andie McDowell who pretended to fall in love and get married in New York just to get a green card... but in the end... :) In that film they used to go to a spot called Afrika (I hope I remember the right name)... and my Bambù bar really reminds me that place. (Does really exist a place called Afrika in the Central Park area?? Does anybody know it?... Let me know!)

After the aperitivo my friends and I could indulge ourself a short visit to Zara and then we had a coffee at our beloved Alvino... where I found out something that really excited me: this ice cream! This is totally made in Alvino, and it was the first time I saw this kind of ice cream in its homemade version.

I did must have it!... The truth is that it was nothing special... I took the hazelnut one. The simple hazelnut ice cream is always really good with a strong and good natural hazelnut flavour! This one wasn't so good how I wished: it was too freezy and hard (I think an ice cream has to be cold and creamy not a big ice stone, don't you?)... so I didin't enjoyed it so much! I couldnt taste the flavour so much because it was... too light! Like it was watered down or something like that!..

Tonight I have to start packing... on Friday I'll leave: my american holydays are waiting for me!

Lara

Easter highlights

2011-04-25T19:41:00.004+02:00

Eaten my weight in chocolate.
Got an overdose of family tips.
Missed my boyfriend so much.
Gone to every single holy week celebration.
Enjoyed the sunshine and had a country day trip.

This week is gonna be chaotic, I have to do so many things...
Hope you had a good Easter with family or friends!
Enjoy this last week of April!

Lara

Ps. Thanks to the Scientific Housewife for the follow!

Easter Flowers Arranging

2011-04-21T16:47:00.004+02:00

One of my favourite ritual on Easter time includes mum, flowers and chocolate eggs.
I like having flowers in my room every week (almost every week considering how expansive they are!)... instead of this luxurious pleasure my mum prefers buying flowers only on special occasions. Like this holy week!
I went to my flowers guy (a funny boy who sell flowers in the street every Thursday) and I bought some yellow roses and gerbere (I dont' know their name in english, so sorry!). This guy has been so kind to give me a small purple bouquet as a present! I wished him a merry Easter and I run back home wandering how my mum and I would arrange these beauties.

Mum is not a talkative person. She's always been naturally shy, but I love her way to show me her love with special things, like these rituals for two.
Arranging flawers together means a lot to me: Sometimes it means querreling about flawers stalk's s lenght or flowers set up... but above all it means to spend some priceless time together.

I love you mum... You are the best!

Lara

Potatoes Stop!

2011-04-20T20:24:00.008+02:00

My friends and I are going crazy for this place.
We've heard about a Patata Shop here in Lecce from a friend of us. He really recommended us this little spot near piazza Sant'Oronzo, in the very heart of Lecce.
You can find here everything (and I mean everything, from chips to potatoes sandwitches or sweet potatoes pastries!)... everything made with potatoes.
We decided to ge there on luch break... And we really loved it! A very kind stuff let us try some samples and I had a diet coke too. (I remark this because I have to admit that here in Lecce it is not so easy to find diet coke as an alternative to the classic one...).
I had a menu (in the first pics) with amazing fried potatoes and chicken, my friends had potatoes toast and sandwitch, a perfect meal for one of them who's vegetarian.

Before coming back to work we had a coffee at Alvino, the most popoular cafè in Lecce, just in front of piazza Sant'Oronzo. The weather was beautiful but we can't afford nothing more than a few minutes stop there.

I really hope the weather will be so good too on this week end, I know that many of you are going out or leaving on holyday... I'm the first who need an open air week end!

Lara

Temper Trap

2011-04-18T21:31:00.000+02:00

Last Saturday I had a totally unexpected present: Condition, Temper Trap's debut album.
I've already heard about Temper Trap, in Italy their songs are used as soundtrack of noumerous commercial and they have a good fame, but I've never heard their whole album.
I did it on Saturday morning, while having breakfast with Alf, because this cd has been a breakfast present! Breakfast is my favourite meal and when I can I love spending hours drinking tea or cappuccino and chatting in a good company... Last Saturday I added to this lovely plan the sweet voice of Dougy Mandagi of Temper Trap.
I think this band is the perfect listening in a rainy day you want to spend with someone special... The whole album is good. I knew just two songs on ten that made up their album: Sweet Disposition and Drum Song, both of them are commercial soundtracks. But every single song has got something special, and I think this is a really great debut from these Australian guys! Last year my cousin tell me she went to watch them playing live in London, they are good performers she said.. I hope I could see them in Italy too someday!

What do you think about Temper Trap? I really like this kind of rock, I wish I could find something similar... what do you think it should be compared to them?

Have a godd start of this holy week!

Lara

*pictures from Google

This week end before Easter

2011-04-17T20:41:00.002+02:00

This picture is the most representative of the week end. The thing that really makes me laugh is my boyfriend's finger on the photo, he wanted to show how these pastries are huge! I eat lots of good food, and it was consoling enough, considering the miserable weather here. It seems the warm and summer weather has gone away... Friday was cold, saturday it rained all day and today was windy and cloudy. So sad!

This conforting food was really needed!

On Friday I went to a new hairdresser and picked my boyfriend from the airport after work, then we went to our beloved Burger King where I had a cheeseburger and a coke... not a diet one, this time! I didint have "a real one" from months!
Alf and I loved Burger King... It's our Friday together must have. After a week of healthy food I love indulging myself with some junk food!

On Saturday the weather was awful: it rained all day, it was cold (and my boyfriend had just a jeans jacket) and humid at the same time... very miserable! We decided to go playing pinball! I love pinball.. They make me think to Happy Days so now I'm going crazy about buying an Happy days dvd collection... but this is a different story I'll tell you later! ;)

Want to see something funny? I made myself oranje juice today ... my boyfriend was stunned ahahah I let him drink the most! So good!

What do you think about an housewife Lara?
Hope you had a great week end.. I felt so happy I could spend sometimes with Alf, I've been missed him so much! Have a good holy week... belivers or not!

xxx, Lara

The Graduate

2011-04-13T21:32:00.000+02:00

Tonight I'm gonna sigh for this film... aaahhh****

Did you ever watch it?

xxx, Lara

ps. Thank you so much to Pilar for the follow... she's such a good friend!

*Picture from Google

Gettin' excited

2011-04-10T20:56:00.000+02:00

This week is starting with so good news!
I'm gonna see my beloved man next week end!! ..So so so happy!

Plus: I had 2 (not one folks... but 2! LOL) Stylish Blogger Awards ! I'm very thankful to the sweet people who gave me such an honour! So thank you : Lorenzo and Liling !

And now I have to tell you seven random facts about me!
So... Enjoy!

1. I've got a male best friend called Little Calf. He's human, not animal, actually.

2. I love eating. That's not a secret, but you have to know that my favourite meal is breakfast.

3. My favourite color is green and I love green stones.

4. I just can't wait to go to the States this year coz I need to spend some time with my boyfriend only.

5. I don't like macarons so much. Ok they are nice and sometimes tasty, but... come on I dont think you can go crazy for that.

6. I was obsessed about reading "Fallen". Ok, I know it is just girlish stuff but I really want to read it!

7. I love my boyfriend more than anyone else in the world!

And Now... my winners! I'm sorry but they will be just 4... This is people I find very interesting, some of them are precious friends!

1. My sweet Australian good friend Yleen with Delirious Jellybean !

2. Want you know a really funny and good girl? Check out Liling's Shadows Overhead !

3. E questo lo scrivo in italiano... Lorenzo è un nuovo fashion blogger italiano ... check out his blog, He deserves many followers!!

4. One of my favourite fashion girl in Italy : Sara from Chic Neverland ! E' simpatica e genuina...questa è la moda che mi piace!

Have a great start of this week!

Lara

Ps. As you can see from this picture, everything in my garden is blooming... It is such a beautiful feeling to see that!

Mum's plant

2011-04-10T15:54:00.000+02:00

It's been a very rough week with studies. I had a lot of things to do and a little time to do them.
By the way, now it's over and I can't complain, never. I'm loving where my life is driving me, also if sometime it seems it's just driving me crazy!
I dont know what is happening to the weather here in Italy... It's gettin hotter and hotter and I can't belive it is just April... the start of April! It would be global warming's fault maybe? I just don't know.
My mum is that kind of woman obsessed by the weather .
I dont have pay tv but if I had, I suppose my mum would spend all the day checkin out how cold is Russia or how reainy is in India (if it is possible).. so you can't really imagine how she is amazed by this funny weather now.
Three days ago, when I was swamped from my to do study list, she came to me with this little plant that now needs a name (yes, I love naming plants).
She said it's perfect for my table, near my iphone and all the mobile stuff coz she read about this plant's power to chatch electromagnetic waves. ...I know ...my mum is perfect!

Lara

Ps. Thanks to For All The Shoes for the follow!

Spriiiing :)

2011-04-02T16:53:00.000+02:00

Yesterday I had my first lolly of this Spring... :)
It's finally sunny and warm.. I love studying when outside everything is blooming and I love making some sunny breaks with my friends just to have an ice cream or an iced coffee...
Today it's saturday and I'm going out with mum coz it's been a long time since we had a walk together! Today she'll come with me to the mall ..I need some new tights!
Have a great week end with people you love! ...I hope to have pizza tonight :P

Lara

Ps. Thanks to Mimma for the follow!

work in progress pt. 2

2011-04-01T20:39:00.000+02:00

I'm trying to make possible the impossible!
I definitely want to have a cabin closet and now that I can afford it I'm doing all my best to get everything ready until Easter. It's had, I have to admit.
It was my first time with super glue, nails and hammers, screwdriver and - the worse - electric drill ! Plus, I can dedicate just a coulple of hours at week to this job so... I really hope I could end up everything as soon as is possible ... Living in a messy space makes me feel messy too!
By the way, today I assembled the second one of my hat stands... The one I'm gonna use for summer clothes! Yay!

Lara

work in progress in my room

2011-03-31T23:07:00.000+02:00

Unespectedly, today I had an half of my day OFF! So I indulged myself to sleep until a shameful hour and I had lunch with my friend Jane!
The weather was glorious and we had a walk too...
As you can see from this picture I'm trying to put in order my smaller room, the one I can use as cabine closet now... unfortunately it's not so easy as I though and I'm spending so many time hangin' around interiors shops, bricolage stuff, fabrics shops, and many other places.
Last week I went to Ikea where I found this very useful 'komplement' so I can finally feel free to choise every scarf or foulard I have because I can see everything and everything is under my control ..... **Happy**

Have you got any tip for "put in order" or reorganize a cambine closet ?
Thank you!

Hope for Spring to come

2011-03-29T13:48:00.001+02:00

Last week end in Parma I went to the park with my boyfriend, the wheater was so warm and I loved the sun. Until the sunset we played on the grass ... I love it :)
I just can't wait for spring and for flowers in bloom!

Lara

Jewels and Memories

2011-02-10T20:53:00.000+01:00

This is a sharing post: this ring is a present from my granma. It was a present for my baptism, and I've recently started to wear it because I think that now it's the right time.
I use to wear him on summer time with refined outfits that I hope to share!
I miss my granma, she lived with us. She was a very classy woman always pretty and beautiful.
I'm the proud owner of this ring because it means a lot to me!

And you... have you got a special ring, necklace, bracelet linked to a special person?

xxx, Lara