Alla Fiorentina

Incepted Breakfast

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:55:00 +0000

Its a breakfast inside a breakfast..

I saw this great idea on lifehacker the other day, and I happened to have avocados and eggs around, so I gave it a try. It was easy and turned out great! Next time I would leave them in the oven a little bit less, because the yolk was a bit too cooked. I would also use bigger avocados since, as you can see, there was a little spillage. Other additions to consider: tabasco sauce or a sprinkle of chilli powder to give it a kick, or grated Parmesan cheese because everything + cheese = better. The only problem I can't fix is that the avocados here don't compare to the ones from California.

But there you have it! Take out the pit, dig a space, crack the egg and put it in the oven!

Macaron Coin Purse

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:30:00 +0000

Can somebody please make me a few dozen of these?

Tutorial by Craft Passion, via How About Orange

I wouldn't exactly call it a coin purse, since it looks like it can fit about two coins inside. I like the idea shown in the picture - If I had a bunch of them I would put my favorite rings in them, and keep them piled in a bowl on my dresser. Sooo who has some spare polka dot fabric, zippers, and spare time and wants to make me a present?

Sunday Snapshot

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:52:00 +0000

A Clear Sunny Winter Day in Florence

Memories of Paris

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

One of the things I neglected to blog about last year was the trip to Paris that my husband and I took for our first anniversary. I took lots of lovely pictures with my point and shoot, but some of my favorites are actually the ones I snapped with my phone. Somehow they feel more spontaneous and intimate. They show a cross section of the things that caught my eye and made me stop - the things that I just had to share on Twitter and Instagram right away! They couldn't wait and just be part of the photo album; they stand alone as little visual diary entries.

Here are my favorites..

Parisian Treats

We stopped in the evening at a sidewalk cafè for a coffee, and enjoyed the sunset and view of Notre Dame. As much as I was anxious to drink my coffee, I had to take a picture of the perfect whipped cream.

Another day we stopped at Laudreè and had a cup of tea. The store was unbelievably busy but I snapped this picture of the macaroon display. The perfect round shape and playful pastel colors made me feel like I was in Wonderland!

The Eiffel Tower & The Louvre

I had been to Paris for a weekend once before, and one of my biggest regrets was somehow missing out on seeing the Eiffel tower at night, so our first night there we had to go soak in all of its sparkly beauty! The Eiffel tower is famously photogenic, but when its right in front of you it feels like trying to bottle sunlight.

We weren't up to taking on the Louvre this time, but we did catch a wonderful sunset in Cour Napoléon outside the palace.

Parisian Food

My favorite area to eat in was the lively Latin District. We had plenty of French onion soup (one of my favorites), and I even tried Escargot! It didn't taste bad, but I didn't eat too many...

Palace of Versailles

My second biggest regret from my first trip to Paris (after missing the Eiffel tower all lit up) was not seeing the gardens of Versailles, so we remedied that as well. My favorite part was Marie Antoinette's Estate. Inside is a tiny village of adorable cottages and farm animals. This shot of some of the wildlife there is one of my favorites.

The last regret I had during my first visit to Paris was not being in love while I was there. It felt like the last missing piece to a weekend in the city of lights. Going back for my first anniversary was the perfect reprise. We had a great weekend exploring Paris in all its springtime glory. Every once in a while I scroll back in the photos on my phone and relive these little memories. Paris is a city I could go back to again and again, and now that I'm a tour guide its not out of the question! You can come with, if you want ;)

All for the Internet, and the Internet for All!

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:00:00 +0000

For months I've been seeing articles and memes about SOPA, an apparently diabolical bill being considered by the U.S. government to steal the internet. Ok, that might be an exaggeration - this video helped me understand what's really going on:

PROTECT IP / SOPA Breaks The Internet from Fight for the Future on Vimeo.

Before today, I tried not to worry too much about SOPA, and crossed my fingers that it wouldn't pass. However, with today's blackout I felt empowered - as citizens, with the help of the internet bringing us together and spreading the word, who knows? Maybe it really is possible for us to make a difference, and even affect legislation.

Of Oranges & Kitties

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 21:21:00 +0000

Cooped up at home with a broken ankle, I asked my husband to buy some fruit so that I can have some no-prep food to keep on hand that isn't a bag of chips. He came home with the biggest oranges I think I've ever seen. Just a few of them fill up our whole fruit bowl..

My kitties are my constant companions, since they can sleep enough to stay in bed with me all day, and follow me around on the rare occasion that I move - so they can wage war against my crutches. Tuesday interrupted our photo shoot to check out the temptingly chewable orange leaves

p.s. Don't you just love dreamy instagram filters? Follow me: allafiorentina

1955-2011

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 09:50:00 +0000

Thanks for everything, Steve

Move

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 11:58:00 +0000

Doesn't this just make you want to go wander off to somewhere exotic?

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

Sunday Snapshot: Cat Nap

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Happy Birthday Mom!

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 22:05:00 +0000

Happy Birthday to my beautiful and talented mother! We may be far away, but I think of you every day because you taught me the strength I needed to take the risk to follow my dreams!

Take a look at my mom's website to learn about her creative writing classes! If you live in Southern California, take advantage of the classes offered for both adults and children of all ages. No matter where you live, you can get inspired by the free writing prompts on the website!

Love you Mom!

New Blog Button

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 11:20:00 +0000

On the left-land side bar is the "My Favorite Blogs" page, where I share the blogs that I've been reading lately. Now, under that list (and in this post) you can find my blog button, in case you want to show your readers that you're an Alla Fiorentina reader! Or.. that you like pretty coffee :)

So feel free to grab this button!

Beyond Firenze: The Island of Capri

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +0000

As much as I love Florence, everyone needs a summer getaway once in a while. Far away from the hot humid city is the beautiful Amalfi Coast, and its just a twenty minute ferry ride to the amazing Island of Capri!

When you first think of an island escape, I'm sure you think of laying on a beach all day, but Capri is quite rocky and not famous for its beaches (although, if you must take a dip in the crystal blue water, they can be found at Marina Grande or Marina Piccola). That doesn't mean that there isn't plenty to do - here is my list of the top 6 activities in Capri:

1. Island Boat Tour

When your ferry lands in Capri, there will be plenty of boat companies trying to tempt you into a private boat tour - say yes! Taking a relaxing boat tour lets you see all the sights only reachable by sea - like the white, green, and coral grottos (different caves famous for the color of the water, or the coral that can be seen on the rocks). No tour is complete without driving through the tunnel of love, the iconic symbol of Capri, so you can kiss your lover for good luck!

2. The Blue Grotto

One of the best reasons to take a boat tour is to reach the famous Blue Grotto. Although you can reach it from land, personally I think its nicer to be seated comfortably on a boat floating next to the cave, then standing in a long line. When large cruise groups arrive, they wait in the line on the island, and trust me when I say that thats not a line you want to be stuck in.

Instead, your boat driver will stop outside the tiny entrance to the Blue Grotto (the entrance is so tiny that any rough sea conditions will cause the Grotto to be closed - check with the boat company before hand). From there you'll get into a tiny row boat to enter the cave. Inside, the water is lit by the sunlight outside, and glows a brilliant blue. Usually your oarsman will serenade you to complete the experience.

3. The Gardens of Augustus

In the center of Capri are the Gardens of Augustus. For one euro, you can enter the gardens for a stroll around, and to see the impressive views. Make sure your camera is charged!

4. Limoncello Tasting

The best place for the island's famous Limoncello is in Anacapri, the upper town. Most stores that sell Limoncello also offer free tastings, so take advantage and try all the local variaties - from classic limoncello, cream, and even meloncello! You'll end up buying the meloncello, trust me. In fact, excuse me while I go to my fridge for a second...

5. Custom-Made Sandals

My favorite limoncello store also happens to hand make beautiful custom sandals. You can choose your style of sandal, and then choose from almost every color and finish of leather that you can think of! They find the perfect size sole for your feet, and then adjust the straps for a perfect custom fit. As a final touch, you can even get your initials embossed on the soles.

6. Chairlift

In Anacapri you can also take a chair lift to the highest point of the island. Its a relaxing fifteen minute ride up in a single chair, and once at the top you're treated to spectacular views of the entire island. This is a must for anyone with even the most casual photography hobby. There is also a cafe where you can relax and enjoy a refreshing lemon granita.

With its charming southern energy and atmosphere and fascinating history reaching back further than the Roman empire, the Island of Capri is a must-see for any tour of Italy!

Sunday Snapshot: Sunset at the Louvre

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 23:16:00 +0000

Giveaway Winner!

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 23:29:00 +0000

Its time to choose the winner of the 8x10 Fine Art Print by Trudy Perks! If you don't win this time, don't worry, there are still plenty of beautiful pieces of art available at Trudy's Store! I had fun choosing my favorite prints when I bought a set of four notecards. I love the quality and they came wrapped up nice and pretty! That's one of the best things about ordering from Etsy, don't you think?

And now to choose the winner...

Comment number 10, by BrillianteStringQuartette! Congratulations, Trudy will be in contact with you via email shortly so that you can choose your print! Thanks again to everyone who participated

Spring Daisies

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 00:36:00 +0000

Spring is in full swing here in Florence, and it sure is beautiful! I'm inspired to wear spring dreses, walk around the city taking polaroids, start new projects, and of course - put daisies in my shoes!

I have some adventures planned for this week that I'll hopefully be sharing with you soon! What
adventures are on your horizon?

The Disadvantages of Camouflage

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 13:55:00 +0000

source

"Poker is not a popular game among chameleons"

How to Fake an Italian Pizza

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:39:00 +0000

Yes, its true. I am obviously not a good self-respecting wannabe Italian. I buy frozen pizzas.

You see, I'm not exactly the kind of wife that kneads dough and lets it rise and chops up tomatoes to make a meal. Not on a regular basis, at least. But, to make up for it, I enhance the pizzas. Its an idea that came from my husband (a real Italian who also buys frozen pizzas - shame!), and now that I've tried it seems so simple that I can't believe I lived so many years and never thought of it.

And now for a "tutorial" so simple it doesn't even merit the name... Ready?

Step 1: Buy a frozen cheese pizza

Step 2: Before you put that pizza in the oven, put some stuff on it.

Want some pictures? Here ya go...

The Lie:

The Reality:

Where is my sprig of basil and bug-eyed reptile??

The Solution:

Mozzarella, salami and spicy green peppers!

The Result:

You can see the ugly pizza hiding underneath my beautiful fresh melty mozzarella

And its really really yummy, especially with some salt and pepper on top when its fresh out of the oven (because everything is better with more salt).

Like my fake cappuccino tutorial, I am in no way saying that this is "just as good" as your grandmother's fresh hand-made-from-scratch Italian Pizza. Its not. Buuut if you do a cost-benefit analysis of the time, effort and clean up... this one just might come out on top. Maybe.

P.S. Don't forget to Enter my Giveaway to win an original 8x10 fine art print of your choice!

Featured Artist & Giveaway: Trudy Perks

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:37:00 +0000

The Artist: Trudy Perks
Etsy Shop

Forest Afternoon

Trudy Perks is lots of things, including but not limited to: environmentalist, physicist, wife, mother, big sister, philosopher, photographer, and painter. But now, and best of all for you, dear readers, she is also an etsy shop owner!

Melting Ice

Stairway

Winter Landscape

Trudy's brand new etsy shop sells high-quality signed prints of her original photography and oil paintings. She studied landscape painting in England and has recnetly returned to her native Ontario, Canada where the natural scenery gives her plenty of inspiration to continue both her photography and painting.

Much of Trudy's artwork focuses on nature, with people appearing as a nautural piece of the environment. The photography ranges from extreme close ups to wide landscapes, but each one is serene in its beautiful portrayal of light and contrast. Some paintings are still and serene like the photography, while others are full of movement and life, but all of them are full of vibrant color and captivating light play. Also available in sets of cards and mini cards, there is something for every budget.

The giveaway:

One lucky reader will win an 8x10 fine art print of their choice!

To Enter:
Go to Trudy's etsy shop and browse through her artwork! Then leave a comment on this post telling us what your favorite item is.

Extra entries:
(leave a comment for each)

Follow Alla Fiorentina: 1 entry - be sure to tell me how you follow!
Blog about this giveaway: 2 entries (leave two comments)

Tweet about this giveaway: 1 entry

To make it easy you can use this tweet: I just entered to win a fine art print by Trudy Perks! Visit @allafiorentina for more info! http://goo.gl/fb/37vio

This giveaway is open internationally and will close on Friday, the 22nd of April at 11:59pm Pacific Time.

Moka Express Tutorial & Giveaway Winner!

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:16:00 +0000

I bet you're dying to know who won the espresso machine giveaway! I'll tell you soon, but first here's a little tutorial on how to use it. You'll need your Moka, and finely ground coffee grounds (I recommend Illy Caffè Macinato). A sink, a spoon, and a stovetop will help too.

My Italian husband told me that you have to throw away the first three brews, but I wasn't able to confirm this. I tasted the first brew made with the coffee machine pictured, and it was so-so. Basically, if you're a coffee snob, throw out the first brew or two as some people say that they can detect a slight metalic taste (don't worry - there's no danger to your health). As you use your machine, the brews will get better and better as the past coffee in the filter adds depth to the new brews. That also means that you only have to worry about cleaning it thoroughly once in a while!

First, unscrew the top and remove the middle section. Fill the bottom with water up to the screw marker as shown.

Replace the middle section and fill it with coffee grounds. Don't pack it down - just spread it loosely and evenly, and make a little heap on top as shown (its hard not to make a little mess, as you can see)

Screw the top back on TIGHTLY and put it on the stove on medium low heat. Let it boil until the top section is filled with your nice rich espresso. It only takes about five minutes, so its best not to walk away (I've seen kitchen walls that speak of past expolosions from forgotten coffee machines). When you hear the coffee start to come out of the spout, keep the lid closed and wait about another minute for it to finish before turning off the heat.

That's it! You can add milk or sugar to taste, make a cappuccino, or any other espresso-based coffee drink. Enjoy!

And now for the winner...

The first comment!! Jillian from Cornflake Dreams, your Moka will be on the way shortly! Thanks to everyone who entered, and to everyone who sent me your mailing address - keep an eye on your mailbox for your postcard!

Be sure to come back soon, because there are more exciting things ahead... Like maybe next week, for example...

This Month on the Internet: March

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 20:10:00 +0000

Here they are! My March picks from around the interwebs...

Recipes

1. Cupcake Fondue (not really a recipe, just a genius idea)
2.Creamy Roasted Tomato & Red Bell Pepper Soup
3. S'mores Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
4. Cake Batter Pancakes (putting the cake in pancakes, hehe)
5. Nutella Bread Pudding

Lovely Designs

1. Word Puzzle Wrapping Paper
2. Filed Notes (customizable with dry transfer letters!)
3. Tea Robot (via swiss miss)
4. Sushi Shoes (<-- caution: auto music) (blogged by me!)
5. Toast Coasters (via How About Orange)

DIY Projects

1. T-Shirt Necklace (via The Pink & Blue Blog)
2. Pantone Chip Magnets
3. Braided Hex Nut Bracelet (via The Pink & Blue Blog)
4. Mason Jar Pendent Lights (via poppytalk. Also available for purchase here)
5. Printable Fox Bookmarks (via How About Orange)

Hope you enjoyed the links - come back at the end of April for more!

P.S. Don't forget to enter my Moka Express giveaway - entries close tonight at 12am pacific time!

Friday Fancies: Afternoon Cappuccino

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 22:01:00 +0000

In Italy, there are some very strict rules about when you can eat certain kinds of food. No savory food for breakfast (that means no eggs), salad is eaten after the main course, etc. Probably the most strict of these rules is that you can only have milk before lunch. If you walk into a coffee shop in the afternoon and order a cappuccino, they will make it for you, but it will be served with a scrunched nose and some whispers. So remember - to look like a local, no cappuccini after 12pm.

T shirt
Coat, 59 GBP
Skinny fit jeans, $180
Kimchi Blue high heel shoes, $78
Beaded jewelry, $500
MNG by Mango tortoise sunglass, $36

This outfit is for that infamous afernoon cappuccino. Its spring and the days are getting longer - on a lazy saturday I can sleep in witout worrying about missing the sunshine. I can indulge in a 2pm breakfast and be just fine with looking like a tourist. Because really, with the right pair of sunglasses and heels, you can ignore any scrunched up noses.

Linking up to the Friday Fancies! Go to Long Distance Loving for info on how to join in and make your own outfits!

Moka Express Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:56:00 +0000

For coffee lovers only... Its the first ever giveaway at Alla Fiorentina!!

The Moka Express made its decut in 1933, invented by the Italian company, Bialetti.

Some interesting little facts:

1. It was rated as the fifth best design to come out of Italy in the 20th century (Nutella was first)
2. The invention was inspired by an old technique for washing laundry
2.Although many companies have started using stainless steel, Bialetti continues to use Aluminun, claiming that it produces a better quality espresso

I found out all that and more reading this article on ineedcoffee.com!

What You'll Win:
A new, unopened, original Bialetti Moka Express. Small Size - makes "una tazza", enough for one long or two short shots of espresso. The box has instructions in both Italian and English. Here's the proof that I have it:

How to Enter:
Follow Alla Fiorentina using google friend connect, email subscription, or bloglovin or another reader, and leave a comment on this post! Tell me in your comment how you follow.

Extra Entries: Leave one comment for each:
1. Follow @allafiorentina on twitter (1 entry)
2. Blog about it (2 entries - leave two comments)
3. Tweet about it (1 entry)

Use this tweet to make it easier!
Love Coffee?? Enter to win an Italian Moka Express from @allafiorentina http://tinyurl.com/68v8fm2

Bonus!!
Beacuse this is my first giveaway, I'll send a personal postcard from Florence to the first fifteen people to email me their mailing address! Just email me at krista@allafiorentina.com

This giveaway is open internationally, and ends on Monday April 4th at 12am pacific time

[This giveaway is now closed]

Friday Fancies: Dreaming of Springtime

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 08:35:00 +0000

I'm joining Friday Fancies for the first time today! After a rainy week in Florence, the transition to spring is on my mind...

Being from California, I'm used to spring pretty much starting... well, I have no idea, but I do know that I can go to the beach in January, so this "seasons" thing doesn't exactly apply. Living with real seasons is still an interesting exercise in patience for me.

This little wishlist perfectly sums up my confused state of fashion at this time of year. I can't renounce the idea of scarves and gloves from my outfits just yet, but I'm already dreaming of sweet spring flats and bare legs in breezy summer shift dresses.

1. Scallop Shift Dress (via oh joy!)
2. Fantastical Flourish Scarf
3. Duck Egg Blue Swede Bow Gloves (via Ramblings of a Small Town Girl )
4. Peachy Pink Dahlia Flower Cuff Bracelet
5. Maryjane Bow

Those are my friday fancies! Go to Long Distance Loving to find other friday fancies and find out how to join in to share your own!

Happy 150th, Italy!

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 20:00:00 +0000

Today, March 17th, is the 150th anniversary of Italian Unification!

In Florence we've been celebrating since last night with fireworks in Piazza Signoria, and museums open (and free) until 1am!

But no matter where you are, you can celebrate with a cappuccino, dream of Fiat 500s zipping around tuscany, or read this great article from the Florentine, a local English publication, about what unites (and divides) Italians.

And happy St Patrick's day, too!

photo source

Cebrate with some minty green treats, like these Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies and a Grasshopper Cocktail (and don't forget a guiness, of course!)

Aaand happy birthday to the man who changed my life by pouring me a drink in an Irish pub in Italy!* (How much luckier can one day get??)

*my husband, by the way.. in case you were confused.

Sushi Shoes

noreply@blogger.com (Krista) — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:17:00 +0000

Les Lolitas* is one my favorite brands of Italian stores, and with the store mere meters from my house, I get lots of time to gaze in at the window display. Lots of new beauties arrived this spring, but this is the one that captured my heart..

Sushi shoes!! They come in some other lovely pastel colors, but this baby blue is my favorite. I might have to make them mine.

*If you're at work, in a library, or any other silence-required situation, be warned that the website has automatic music