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How to Pot up and Save Amaryllis Bulbs
Amaryllis are great gifts or plants for the holiday season and beyond. They are easy to grow and require no intervention from us! Let's look at what you need to get started. Bulbs either come pre-potted or as bare bulbs. If you get a bare bulb you will want to
Grasses- The Backbone of the Fall & Winter garden
There are grasses to suit every need and every garden no matter what climate you live in. Slowly over the summer they grow and slowly by fall they capture you with the amazing structure they bring to the garden. They explode as the season progresses providing a perfect backdrop for
Planning new garden beds…AGAIN!
Whether you have a large garden area or a small one the principles of garden design are pretty much the same. Whether in containers around a patio, in a small bed near your front door or a large expanse of yard I always have a certain process I follow. Let’s
My garden adventures – how a garden changes over time!
The world of COVID, the Pandemic and three surgeries have caused me to refocus my priorities. Once a full-time salesperson, I was consumed with working. Now it is time to further explore my creative side by expanding both my photography, my garden design and gardening. By way of introduction, if
Bring on SPRING! Oh the possibilities! Planning for a colorful spring & beyond!
Are you creating a new garden or revamping an existing one? Planning is everything so you are not distracted when those garden centers open this spring. After a long winter you will want one of everything. Don't be tempted. Decide what your final goal is. What is the final picture
More than just the Ponte Vecchio!
The Arno River in the heart of Florence is spanned by three main bridges. Ponte alle Grazie, the Ponte Vecchio and Ponte Santa Trinita. All are worth your time. Looking back to the Ponte Vecchio from the other two bridges affords views you don't want to miss as the Ponte
Santa Maria Novella & Officina Profumo- Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
Santa Maria Novella The Piazza Santa Maria Novella is a lively area with open air restaurants and shops and lots of open space to rest your weary feet! It is a short 5 minute walk from the train station. I was blown away by the beauty of the Gothic Basilica's
Hidden Treasures in Florence – Piazza del Limbo & the Ancient Baths
If you have the time to really stop and explore Florence you will find all sorts of hidden treasures like Piazza del Limbo walking through Borgo Santi Apostoli not far from the Ponte Vecchio but a whole other world. The small virtually unknown Chiesa di Santi Apostoli quietly guards this
Restaurant lingo in Italy
Deciphering the restaurant lingo while traveling in Italy can be confusing therefore, I'll try to help make some of the terms less confusing: Meals in Italy are a little different than in other countries, especially the US. Breakfast is usually a quick espresso and a croissant, lunch is often the
The Historic Center of Florence Revisited
The Historic Center revisited: Florence, the symbol of the Renaissance, is such a wonderful city to just walk around and explore. Much of the city center is closed to car traffic, but watch out for bicycles and mopeds and people looking elsewhere! On our first trip to Florence, we loved
Florence revisited!
Recently I have been revisiting some of my blogs on Italy, especially after watching Searching for Italy with Stanley Tucci! I hope you find these updated versions informative and useful. In some cases, I have completely written new ones. Tuscany is a place I think, like no other as it
MILAN, ITALY
If you are watching CNN's new series Searching for Italy with Stanley Tucci you know he went to Milan in the last episode. The show started with views from the top of the Duomo. Don't miss it. (See below) As for that veal cutlet, I had that everywhere I could!!
Bologna- a Food Lover’s Paradise
In case you are mesmerized by CNN's new show with Stanley Tucci, Searching for Italy you might be interested in more information on this unique, beautiful and often underrated city. This past Sunday night, he visited Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region. When you think of Italy most people think art,
WHY DO WE TRAVEL?
Do you leave a piece of your heart everywhere you travel? I know I do 🙂 I think we take for granted how much travel changes us for the better and enriches our lives and our view of the world. What a gift it is to be able to travel,
Where will travel take us in the future?
As the year winds down, and I think we'd all like to forget 2020, I wonder where travel will take us in the coming years and what it will look like? In the meantime, we can dream, plan and figure out if our bucket list destinations are really still on
My Italian Obsession and the World of Covid
During this crazy time of Covid, I think we are all feeling lost and at odds over how this all will end. Our lives are on hold, our dreams, our plans. Who can even make plans? We have had to re-imagine our lives, our careers and our world as we
Villa Cimbrone Gardens in Ravello Italy
"The most beautiful sight that I have ever seen in the world is the panoramic view from Villa Cimbrone on a bright winter's day, when the sky and the sea are so vividly blue that it is not possible to distinguish them from each other" As told to an American
Open your Mind through Travel
How we approach life is often through a one way glass. Most of us live very insulated lives and don't really understand what others are experiencing as showcased these past few weeks. Travel allows us to open our minds, to change our mindset and our view of what is really
Why are we still talking about traveling during a Pandemic?
Well this is certainly a hard time for everyone so why are we still talking about traveling during a Pandemic? It's scary, new and very different from our daily lives. However, travel makes life richer, no matter where you live so for now we will keep talking about travel even
Welcome to the Amalfi Coast & Sorrento
Welcome to the Amalfi Coast! After leaving Naples you head south to the land of lemons! Sorrento is known as one of the world's most charming and romantic old towns with its many cafes, shops and historic sites. It is located in southern Italy about an hour south of Naples,
Capri, Island of Romance and Enchantment
Even after three trips to the Amalfi Coast I still can't get enough. Not sure when we will all be able to travel again so I thought I would bring you more of my Italian adventures. You definitely can't miss Capri! This island is romance on steroids!!! The views are
Come Fly with me to Ravello, Amalfi & Atrani
Continuing on our tour of the Amalfi Coast, come fly with me to Amalfi and the hilltown of Ravello. Amalfi, a truly medieval city has the grandest cathedral anywhere in the Arab-Norman style. The Duomo di Sant' Andrea with its striped facade in Saracen colors and the Chiostro del Paradiso
Hiking on the Amalfi Coast
So let's continue our tour of the Amalfi Coast! This time hiking on the Amalfi Coast. For those so inclined there are plenty of hiking adventures to be had. We chose the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods), which winds its way from Agerola for 5 miles to
“Positano bites deep” in the words of John Steinbeck
Continuing on our tour of the Amalfi Coast we come to Positano! The jewel of the Amalfi coast is most likely Positano, the most photographed fishing village in the world is southeast of Naples. John Steinbeck when he visited in 1953 wrote "Positano bites deep. It is a dream place
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE AMALFI COAST
The Ultimate Guide to the Amalfi Coast
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Aoraki is the traditional Maori name for Mount Cook the highest mountain located in the Southern Alps of the South Island in NZ. After leaving Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepard we headed towards Lake Pukaki and Twizel. As you head along the Lake, the bluest water
Standing strong in Lake Tekapo
The most famous church in New Zealand is undoubtedly Church of the Good Shepard. It is always crowed with visitors looking for the selfie and photographers and for good reason. The landscape surrounding this beautiful church both day and night is a sight to remember. It is the only church
The World Down Under – Wanaka, NZ
Kia Ora as the Kiwi's say! One of the best times I had in New Zealand, last October, springtime in NZ, was my time doing photography in scenic Wanaka. Okay, I did get to photograph "That Wanaka Tree" at sunrise but I also went with a fellow photographer to catch
Land of Lord of the Rings – Glenorchy
Land of Lord of the Rings - Glenorchy, NZ
Spa Day in Queenstown – are you in?
KIA ORA! (“Hello” or “Be Well” in the Māori language) When I knew I was going to New Zealand the one thing everyone said not to miss was Onsen Hot Pools Retreat & Day Spa in Queenstown. They were not wrong! An Onsen is a Japanese hot spring. In Japan
Whose up for a wine tour or Bungy jumping?
Where can you find La Dolce Vita? The Sweet Life can be found wherever you are in my opinion, not just in Italy. Recently I had an amazing chance to travel to New Zealand and wow they really live The Sweet Life there! The area around Queenstown, New Zealand is
In search of La Dolce Vita! Anywhere 🙂
How do you decide on a new travel destination to put on your "I HAVE TO GO THERE" list? Is it a city, a beach, a mountain resort, a luxury accommodation? Do you want to ski, hike, cook, camp, race. sail, or spa? What are your criteria when selecting that
Mouth-watering Figs!
Figs love the Mediterranean climate in Italy. You can find these yummy fruits in family gardens all over Italy ripening from September - October. Depending on the variety they are available from summer thru fall. They date back all the way to ancient times. They are even mentioned in the
Fiesole
Just a short bus ride from Florence up into the hills brings you to the town of Fiesole. The quick side trip lays fabulous views of Florence at your feet. The city is laid out before you as a marvel of the Renaissance in Tuscany that it is. The first
Lake Como – Villas on the Lake
Did you know Lake Como is only about an hour's ride from Milan? There are numerous grand villas that line Lake Como. Taking the slow ferry gives you a glimpse at a few! Villa on the lake This screams Italy to me! Villa Balbianello in Lenno
Lake Como – Bellagio – Villa Melzi
If you visit Bellagio be sure not to miss the famous gardens of Villa Melzi. The gardens are open to the public but the 19th century neoclassical villa is not. It is said these gardens were a favorite spot for Franz Lizst, the famous composer and pianist and quite possibly
Bellagio- the “pearl” of Lake Como
This lovely village on Lake Como is known for its steep, narrow, stair lined cobbled streets with insane views of the lake. It is one of the most popular stops for tourists visiting the area along with the towns of Varenna and Como. Bellagio is located at the junction where
Lago di Como, a series, part 5
There are so many things and places to experience on Lake Como that I could go on and on! Here are a few more sites from the city of Como located only an hour by train from Milan and perfect spot to call home base for visiting the lake.
Lago di Como, a series, part 4
On the shores of Lake Como in the town of Cernobbia is the 16th century Tivoli Palace named, Villa D'Este. This former palace from the Renaissance era was converted to a high end hotel in 1873 and consists of the Villa and a 25 acre park. Be prepared for stunning
Lago di Como, a series, part 3
Travel to any town in Italy and you will find beautiful churches. The Como Cathedral as it is known, is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and dates back to 1396. Architecturally fascinating, it mixes Gothic, Romanesque, Renaissance and Baroque features. This is a very important Gothic church in Northern
Lago di Como, a series, part 2 -Brunate
When you are in the city of Como, Italy on Lake Como don't miss the chance to ride the funicular up to the small town of Brunate which sits 2346' above Como. Of course, if you are in no hurry you can hike up! The funicular opened way back in
Lago di Como, a series
If you have been to Como, Italy you couldn't have missed the steel sculpture, a gift to the city of Como designed by Daniel Libeskind. The contemporary sculpture called "The Life Electric" dedicated to Alessandro Volta is located at the very end of the Diga Foranea pier. Day or night
The Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre can be found between Genoa and Pisa and is an easy train ride from Milan or Florence. The 5 towns of the Cinque Terre are a UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching for 6 miles on the Italian Riviera but are very different from their glitzy neighbors. We
The Italian Riviera – Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure is part of the Ligurian region on the Italian Riviera. We stayed at a wonderful hotel called the Imperiale Palace Hotel. We chose this specifically because they had both a pool and a beach area so we could unwind after two weeks of traveling around Italy and
Portofino, Italy
Well Portofino is probably the most photographed fishing village on the Italian Riviera! Whatever you have in mind, relaxing is in store since there is not much to actually DO here! Be prepared to just stroll around the boutiques, the harbor and walk up to Castello Brown maybe and of
2018 Italian Grand Prix
This is one of the longest running events on the Formula One circuit and has been held continuously since the World Championship was introduced back in 1950. With the exception of one year it has been held in Monza, IT just outside Milan since 1922 when the Grand Prix was
Time to Order those Bulbs!
Okay I know you are thinking: WHAT!!! It's still summer, but in many parts of the country bulbs go in the garden in the fall from late September until frost so start perusing those catalogs now and get your orders in. If you have favorites, you'll want to order them
Daylilies – my secret passion “besides travel!”
Day Lily is just what it means! A new bud opens and then closes every day. There are daylilies that start early in the summer and others that open later so it is completely possible to have daylilies for months! They are reliable, simple to grow, require no fuss and
Day tripping in CT at Lavender Pond Farm
In their effort to make the world a more beautiful place the owners of Lavender Pond Farm have created a little slice of heaven right here in Connecticut on 25 acres now filled with all sorts of lavender varieties. Located in Killingworth, CT the Farm caters to lavender and garden
BUTTONWOOD FARM – SUNFLOWERS FOR WISHES
The Annual Sunflowers for Wishes is taking place now! - This is a blog I wrote several years ago on this wonderful place supporting a wonderful cause. Enjoy it again as well as the ice cream although the sunflowers are past peak now. The event runs through August 2, 2020
The Magic of Georgia O’Keeffe @ NYBG
The New York Botanical Garden was founded in 1891 and is a National Historic Landmark world renown for its plant research and conservation programs. Georgia O'Keeffe was an American artist known mostly for her paintings of oversized flowers from New Mexico and Hawaii. She achieved worldwide acclaim for her innovative
Such a Happy Place – The Bronx Zoo
This zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in the US and one of the largest in the entire world. The Bronx River flows through the Zoo and it is a neighbor of the NY Botanical Gardens. I can honestly say going on the Fourth of July in close to 100
Boston – Happy 4th of July!!!!!
A fun stop is the top of the Prudential Tower where you have a 360 degree view of the city. Above is a view towards Cambridge. Look down onto Newberry Street and all those lovely shops and restaurants and over to Fenway Park! I never realized how many brownstones were
The Power of Capturing Moments and Memories
“Memories are not the key to the past, but to the future.” Corrie Ten Boom People ask me why I do what I do and why am I so passionate about it? Those who are gone are not forgotten! They are always with us in our hearts and minds. I
Spectacular Fall Blooms – Black- Eyed Susan’s!
In my garden I have planted to encourage butterflies, bees and birds to enjoy and pollinate. At this time of the year it is important to keep food sources plentiful for these wonderful creatures. Black-eyed Susan's start blooming in late July and continue all fall in my garden in Zone
Chanticleer Garden
Just a short drive from Philadelphia, Chanticleer is one of the great gardens in this area. Once the Rosengarten estate, today Chanticleer is a contemporary garden situated in a historic setting. Garden Design magazine has dubbed this "America's most inspiring garden." Coneflowers in the Pond Garden area
Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens
Morikami celebrates the connection between Japan and South Florida. Little did I know that in the early 1900s, Japanese farmers arrived in southern Florida and formed an agricultural colony called Yamato, an ancient name for Japan. Most of those farmers returned to Japan but one of the remaining settlers George
Trade Secrets 2018- Wethersfield Garden
Thankfully the weather held out for the Sunday Garden tours this year unlike Saturday's Garden and Rare Plant Sale at Lion Rock Farm. Wethersfield Garden in Amenia, NY is a beautifully manicured ten acre garden surrounding the home of the late Chauncey D. Stillman. The gardens were created in a
Attracting Pollinators to your Garden
Black Eyed Susans - Rudbeckia Pollinators are crucial to the production of most fruits, nuts and berries including apples, oranges, tomatoes and blueberries. There are many plants that will attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees to your property. In order to attract these pollinators plant a succession of blooming
A Day in the Country- Trade Secrets
With Trade Secrets being this weekend in CT I thought you might be interested in this blog I wrote several years ago on the Saturday event which is always a widely anticipated event by plant geeks everywhere. People come from far and wide to attend, booking their hotel rooms a
Take time to smell the ROSES!
Roses are perhaps my favorite flower! There are so many varieties, some with glorious fragrances, others with prickly thorns that always seem to get me through my garden gloves. Roses are quite versatile in the garden as they can be used in mixed borders, as a hedge, in a Rose
Garden Ornaments and its finally time to get out in the Garden!
Art in the Garden is certainly not a new idea. It provides a practical purpose as a place for the eye to rest or be drawn to. It can be artsy, a container, a sculpture, a spiritual figure, an arbor, water feature or any type of vessel. It provides structural
Hiking in CT – Lover’s Leap State Park
Lover's Leap is a Connecticut State park located in New Milford along the Housatonic River and straddles the Housatonic Gorge. The history of this park is dark and full of mystery! The signature attraction is the red wrought-iron bridge built in 1895 and one of four iron lenticular truss bridges
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas can add drama to the garden whether pink, white, green or red. They make great cut flowers! Early spring is a perfect time to plant Hydrangeas because the ground is still cool so they are less likely to get stressed. Hydrangeas are basically low maintenance shrubs and highlight the
Spring Arrangements & Flowering Plants
After a long winter I love to bring color back into my home as soon as possible. The houseplants have done their duty and brightened the gray days as best they can but now we all want some color! When planning your garden or rejuvenating it remember to plan for
Wynwood Walls ….
More from Wynwood Walls in Miami, FL Did you miss last week's blog on the history of Wynwood and Urban Graffiti Art in Miami, Florida? Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum with large painted pop art by famous street artists. The theme of the new Goldman Global Arts Gallery exhibit
Urban Graffiti Art in Miami, Florida
I was thrilled to visit the Wynwood Walls Art installation again this year while visiting my son in Miami. Any lover of street art should make it a point to visit Wynwood! This area of Miami is known for its colorful wall murals and is a very up and coming
Vicenza
Do you love architecture? Then you will love Vicenza a UNESCO World Heritage Site! This city is a successful blend of old and new and the city of Palladio! Andrea Palladio Vicenza is a very old city dating back to pre-Roman times before it was absorbed into the
Verona’s Bridges
First thing upon arriving, after we were challenged by the hordes of traffic for The International Motorcycle Show and Motor Bike Expo, we made our way to the river and the Museo di Castelvecchio. This 14th century fortified castle houses artifacts from the Middle Ages. There are seven towers and
Churches of Verona
Duomo Di Verona is the city's cathedral and can easily be reached from the Ponte Pietra. It was constructed on the remains of two earlier churches that were destroyed in the earthquake of 1117. An absolutely beautiful church in the historic medieval center. The Basilica has striped brick and stone
Romeo, Romeo, where fore art thou – in Verona?
You know how the story goes.... those unforgettable words spoken by Juliet from that famous balcony supposedly in Verona- not really! Very touristy spot! I skipped Casa di Giulietta. There were however two real feuding families in Verona called the Capuleti's and the Montecchi's. Juliet never lived in the 1300's
Venice – an elegant old city
Venice lies in a shallow lagoon in the Adriatic Sea surrounded by a string of islands and is an old, elegant city. It is the capital of the Veneto Region of Northeastern Italy. Venice was an important and wealthy city in the Roman Empire. As the Empire began to collapse
The Magic of Venice
This city is abundant with art and architecture. Millions of people arrive daily to take in it's atmosphere and wander its narrow streets. Hopefully, there will soon be a ban on those mega cruise ships that are destroying the lagoon! The Grand Canal from The Rialto Bridge Surprisingly,
Carnevale di Venezia
Carnevale Di Venezia is probably one of the most famous carnivals in the world! Beautiful costumes and Venetian masks create a magical atmosphere. The Venice Carnival is an annual festival like Mardi Gras held each year in Venice, Italy and is famous for the elaborate masks and costumes. The Carnival
Asiago
Asiago is a small town in the northeastern Province of Vicenza located high in the mountains in the foothills of the Alps. Best known for its Asiago cheese of course which is a Protected Designation of Origin cheese. This town was the site of a major battle in 1916 in
Forcing Tulips- Featured on Houzz
Featured today on Houzz: Forcing Tulips: Plant of the Month: Tulip on the Windowsill by March 8 by Elena Veselova
VicenzaOro
Vicenza is the Italian and world capital of gold jewelry making and I was honored last week to accompany my sister to the VicenzaOro show to watch her work! VicenzaOro is one of the world's largest gold jewelry expos. There are several other jewelry shows throughout the year but this
Val d’Orcia – Montalcino
Montalcino sits on top of a steep hill with acres of olive groves and vineyards surrounding it. It was heavily fortified behind defensive walls and an imposing 14th century fortress topped with tall lookout towers built in 1361 to a pentagonal plan. It is famous for the production of Brunello
Val d’Orcia – Montichiello
The entrance to this village is through the Porta Sant’Agata (know as the 'city gate') and offers absolutely stunning views across the valley to Pienza from its perch high on a hill overlooking a magnificent valley. This extraordinarily beautiful region of Tuscany, the Val d’Orcia, was designated a UNESCO World
Greve in Chianti and Montefioralle
Greve in Chianti was our home base while in the Chianti region of Tuscany. From here we travelled to Siena then to Montepulciano, Pienza, Montalcino, San Gimignano, Arezzo and Montichiello. As I detailed in a previous blog we were delighted to stay at Villa Bordoni for our time after we
Arezzo
Arezzo sits high on a hill on the western side of the Apennines toward the border with Umbria and is Tuscany's third largest city and one of the wealthiest located in southeastern Tuscany and feels like a more modern city than some we have seen elsewhere in Tuscany founded in
Lucca- Walled Historic Center
Lucca is known for its Renaissance walls that encircle the historic center of this city lined with cobblestone streets and mostly closed to car traffic. This is the former home of Giacomo Puccini the famous opera composer. We loved this town and you can totally picture living here. (Do you
Pienza – Val d’ Orcia
Pienza is a small town located in the Val D'Orcia, (2004 UNESCO World Cultural Landscapes) in the southeastern area of Tuscany. Situated between Montepulciano and Montalcino and South of Siena it is an easy day trip if your home base is anywhere in Tuscany. In 1996, UNESCO made the center
Pisa- more than just the Leaning Tower!
Here the Arno River continues from Florence dividing the city into 4 distinct areas as it flows to the sea. There is much to see in this city beyond just The Leaning Tower of Pisa! The area of Santa Maria is one of the most ancient districts and during the
Montepulciano – Val d’Orcia
Now we are seriously in the heart of wine country! Montepulciano is reknown for 2 wines in this region: Rosso di Montepulciano and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. These are some of the very best wines in the world. Sitting high on a hilltop with steep narrow streets it is
San Gimignano- the “Manhattan of Tuscany”
San Gimignano sits high on a hilltop about 24 miles northwest of Siena surrounded by soaring medieval towers. The walls are tall, the streets narrow and very typical of Tuscan hill towns. It was first settled in the 3rd century BC by the Etruscans and the buildings and city plan
Outstanding Fall Color from Shrubs
Fall in New England can be a magical time with the explosion of color everywhere, the crisp fall air and the anticipation of winter. It is important to consider all the seasons when planning your garden or adding to it. If something is not working, be brutal and pull it
Naumkeag, a National Historic Landmark
Naumkeag was the summer retreat for NYC lawyer and diplomat Joseph Hodges Choate and his family. This property is a National Historic Landmark for its designed landscape created by Architect Fletcher Steele. The famous Blue Steps have been photographed thousands of times I'm sure but the property in any season
Siena
Siena is often described as Italy's best preserved medieval city! The streets are steep and narrow with the fan-shaped sloping Piazza del Campo (known as il Campo) and the Palazzo Pubblico, Siena's subtly curved town hall since the 1300's at the historic center. The Palazzo Pubblico with its Torre del
Villa Vignamaggio – Tuscany
Villa Vignamaggio sits on the Florence to Siena route with views across olive groves and cypress trees in the heart of the Chianti Classico region in Petriolo very close to Greve in Chianti and was a quick drive from our base at Villa Bordoni. The symbol of Villa Vignamaggio
HANDY TIPS for autumn garden clean up (Seed heads for Flower Arranging)
Fall foliage can afford some of the loveliest plant arrangements. This time of year we find all types of seed heads to use in our decorating. So, before you cut down everything in your garden save a few items for decorating and if not save the seed heads for the
Villa Bordoni – Greve in Chianti
In 2007 David and Catherine Gardner opened Villa Bordoni, Country House Hotel and Restaurant, a small luxury hotel immediately above the town of Greve right in the heart of Chianti Classico region of Tuscany. This 16th century villa has remarkable views of the Tuscan hills and is conveniently located to
Antinori Vineyards – Passignano, Italy
DO YOU LOVE WINE? Well we certainly do! What a wonderful wine tour and tasting we experienced here. You are surrounded by eras of ancient history. The Badia di Passignano is located in the heart of Chianti Classico in Tuscany. The Badia dates back to 395 when it was
Florence – Churches
Santa Maria Novella The Piazza Santa Maria Novella is a lively area with open air restaurants and shops and lots of open space to rest your weary feet! I was blown away by the beauty of the Basilica and it was hard to chose what photos to select for this
Michelangelo’s ‘David’- High Renaissance
Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael were stars of the Italian Renaissance and its artistic masterpieces. They were visionaries who changed the face of sculpture, architecture and painting. Michelangelo was obsessed with portraying the body in all its splendor. He was 26 when he was commissioned with this project in
Florence – centro storico (historic center)
Florence is such a wonderful city to just walk around and explore. Much of the city center is closed to car traffic, but watch out for bicycles and mopeds and people looking elsewhere! We were so pleased to stay on the Via dei Calzaiuoli at Hotel Calzaiuoli right in the
Maywood Gardens- Garden Conservancy
A private estate located in Bridgewater CT was the site of a this past weekend's Garden Conservancy Open Garden Days. I started in the amazing 4000 square foot greenhouse where they are transitioning from the bedding plants to winter plants like poinsettias and cyclamens. There were some true treasures in
Florence, Italy – The Renaissance
The epicenter of the Renaissance in Florence started a cultural explosion. The Medici family led Europe into the Modern Age in the 15th century and out of the shadow of the Church. There was a passion for art and Florence quickly became the art capitol of the western world. The
Florence – a very walkable city
Tuscany is a place I think, like no other. It captures your heart as soon as you arrive. It pulls you in and you feel at home. It is a timeless beauty! Its capital is Florence, home of the Renaissance. Words do not do this city justice. It is full
Venice: Part Two – Famous Landmarks
While exploring Venice you will notice six distinct neighborhoods called "sestieri". This city is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world with its rich history of art, architecture, music, culture and of course, fashion! Tourists are drawn to the many attractions
Venice: or “How to Survive in Venice with no luggage!”
Well this should have been a totally different story but is now a story on how to survive 3 days in Venice with no luggage! My dream trip didn't start out so dreamy! Sound familiar? First delays out of JFK caused us to miss our connecting flight to Venice and
2017 Sunflowers for Wishes
Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Connecticut 126 Monroe Turnpike Trumbull, CT 06611 877-203-WISH, 203-261-9044 203-268-2168 fax http://www.ct.wish.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Shayna Grassi June 20, 2017 203-880-6964 sgrassi@ct.wish.org 14TH ANNUAL SUNFLOWERS FOR WISHES TO TAKE PLACE JULY 22-30 Buttonwood Farms to Donate Proceeds to Make-A-Wish® Connecticut (Trumbull, CT) Buttonwood Farm’s iconic annual
Trade Secrets 2017 – The Major General Ashley House
This eighteenth century house sits on an incredible piece of property overlooking the Housatonic River. Mature sugar maples, black locusts and an ancient willow make this property one to behold. The property is naturalized with daffodils and ferns beneath these mighty trees as well as other spring bulbs. The lawn
Trade Secrets 2017 – Coltsfoot Garden
One of the private gardens open this year for Trade Secrets was Coltsfoot Garden in Cornwall, CT. This is an enchanting cottage garden that along with the colonial home has been in this family for almost 100 years. Upon arrival you are immediately dawn in by the multi-colored lilac trees
Garden Conservancy Open Days – Cobble Pond Farm
The history of this garden goes back 250 years! Originally an Olmsted design it was carefully restored and updated by Kathy Metz, the homeowner, with some inspired help from others. With its formal and informal gardens it is gracefully accented by stone walls, unusual species of trees and a sunken
Wynwood Miami
Wynwood is a neighborhood in Miami, FL that recently has attracted a lot of attention and for good reason! It has become a mecca for art, restaurants, bars, breweries and high end shopping. Rust Wynwood This neighborhood dates back to 1917. Happy 100th birthday this year! This
Borgo Egnazia NOWHERE ELSE
"More than a Resort this is new concept in Hospitality"
Lecce – “The Florence of the South”
Lecce is located in the Puglia region in the heel of the boot in the Italian Peninsula where the Adriatic and Ionian seas are easily accessible. This city is over 2,000 years old and is one of the most important cities in Italy. Commonly known as "The Florence of the
MATERA: a UNESCO World Heritage Site
SASSI di MATERA- Ancient cave dwellings This is a true walk back in time but amazingly people inhabited these caves until the 1950's. Before the Sassi (historical center) were abandoned this was one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. These natural caves dot the steep ravine and were
Alberobello – a UNESCO World Heritage site
A small Town within the City of Bari, in Apulia's region of southern Italy known for its Trulli buildings. The area is part of the coastal plain to the Mediterranean where olive groves are everywhere. It does snow here in winter but only occasionally! The Masseria, the largest farm houses,
Pompeii- a step back in time!
Step back in history to the Roman empire when Pompeii was a major port city before Mount Vesuvius erupted again.
Puglia, an undiscovered gem in Italy
Journey with me from the Amalfi Coast to Pompeii to Matera then on to Puglia, Italy!
Anatomy of a new Garden
Back yard complete Some artists express themselves with paint, some with sculpture, yarn, wood etc. I paint with light, color, flowers and capture that with my photography! I recently moved to a new home and with that move I transplanted tons of plants from my previous houses and
Trade Secrets 2016
Another amazing Trade Secrets event! This year's Trade Secrets was held on May 14th and 15th. After 16 years it has grown exponentially to become the garden event of the season! Created by Bunny Williams as a major fundraiser for Women's Support Services which offers crisis intervention, counseling and education
Can you feel it? Spring is coming!
Ranunculus I don't know about you but here in Connecticut we really haven't had winter so we are all eagerly anticipating an end to this dreariness and excited to welcome spring in just a few short weeks! I am going to be creating new gardens this spring in
Road Tripping in CT
Every year we say it couldn't get any more beautiful and then the next year comes and surprises us. After an extremely dry summer here in CT the Fall is turning out to be amazing. Okay we have our ups and downs. Today it was snowing, then cloudy, then sunny,
IN SEARCH of FALL FOLIAGE in VERMONT
Once fall comes around the air gets crisp and clean and we long for those vibrant colors that fall foliage brings in New England. It's time to carve pumpkins, buy mums and cornstalks, bob for apples, design our Halloween costumes and relish the break from the heat of summer
Elizabeth Park, Hartford CT
Born of the American Park Movement, Elizabeth Park was officially opened to the public in 1897. Encompassing 101 acres, both West Hartford and Hartford share this treasure that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The property originally owned by Charles and Elizabeth Aldrich Pond was gifted to
Fascinating Facts about Cruising the Thimble Islands
Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale a tale of a fateful trip, that started from this tropic port, aboard this tiny ship. Standing watch or just enjoying the sunshine Okay not really but for those of you who remember Gilligan's Island that is what I
Create and Capture Moments of your Vacation
You've planned and packed and checked your list once, twice and dare I say three times so now you are on your way! Here are my simple tips for capturing those memories. First and foremost take tons of pictures! Digital photography has made this so easy. You can delete the
Did you miss last weekend’s Open Garden Days?
Well the weather wasn't the best but the gardens on The Garden Conservancy Open Days are as inspiring as their owners. I had the pleasure to visit the garden of HIGHMEADOWS for the second time; the home of Linda Allard in Washington, CT. HIGHMEADOWS sits high on a hillside overlooking
Trade Secrets Garden Tours 2015- Bunny Williams – John Roselli and Michael Trapp
"Bunny Williams' and John Roselli's longstanding love affair with their Falls Village home becomes abundantly clear after a stroll through the gardens. John's vegetable and cutting garden reflect his skills in the kitchen while Bunny's eclectic aesthetic is evident in her entertaining spaces - from the greenhouse to the Greek
Garden Tours – Part 2 – Trade Secrets 2015
As promised here is another garden from the Trade Secrets Garden Tours a few weeks ago. This property is TWIN MAPLES "Nestled atop Selleck Hill, Twin Maples seamlessly marries the classical and the natural: Formal gardens, cutting and vegetable gardens, and a greenhouse ring the exquisite Georgian-style house overlooking 40
Trade Secrets 2015 Garden Tours
This year the Trade Secrets Garden tours were amazing private gardens that were so different with each showcasing a unique gardening perspective. "Rockwood Farm speaks to the landscaper/designer owner's affection for New England history. Featuring a historic reproduction of an 1800s-era saltbox, this serviceable, sustainable and comfortable homestead has
BOSTON STRONG – “on the waterfront”
I had the pleasure of going to Boston this week on what was arguably one of the most gorgeous days of the year! I thought I would share my walking tour of the Downtown waterfront with you. There is a fabulous new art sculpture you will see hanging in town
SPRING FLING – a tour around the NY Botanical Garden
An explosion of perfume was in the air on Saturday at the NY Botanical Gardens! The sights and smells were overload to this devoted gardener. Even my husband was ooohing and aaahing! The Cherry trees, Magnolias, Spireas and of course all those gorgeous bulbs and spring flowering perennials combined with
Designing with Color
When planning your garden basic design color principles apply both inside and outside. Color schemes can be used in several different ways depending on the mood you wish to create. When talking about color the conversation automatically goes to the basic color wheel. (Color Wheel courtesy of Sessions College)
Face your Fears, Live your Dreams
How do you see your future? If you had asked me this question in the past my answer would have been vastly different than it is today. Life is funny in that the twists and turns bring us to our destiny. I always talked about being a photographer but never
What is your WHY?
The Wind Beneath my Wings! My Mom was always and still is my inspiration. When I asked her once "who do you most admire"? She said: "You! for having the courage to do the things I did not or had not." I, of course, said her. She was and still is
WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DAY MAKES…
What started out as a lovely weekend getaway in VT led into a crazy freak snow event on Sunday afternoon. Then on Monday a completely different experience at the Smith College Lyman Conservatory Spring Flower Show. In the space of 24 hours I experienced winter and spring and in both
A Burst of Springtime
Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Gardens "Some are no bigger than your thumbnail, while others are the size of your hand. Some mimic bees and butterflies, while others resemble a lady's slipper. Orchids can be found in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Americas, and have evolved to survive
“A Piece of Sky”
It's another snowy morning here. We are getting more snow... again. So in the midst of this very snowy and cold winter where I should be skiing instead of sitting inside the view outside is what counts! If you are outside walking, hiking, snow-shoeing, cross country skiing or maybe ice
Spring is coming…. but not today!
As I sit by the window watching the first fat snowflakes fall I find an extreme sense of peace. The snow is so beautiful! Perfect snowflakes in all shapes and sizes blanketing the gardens and keeping my beloved plants safe till spring when it will be time to awaken. Spring
Spectacular winter images
Winter can be cold and long for some of us in the country. Hopefully you are getting out and savoring all it has to offer. Here are some moments I have experienced that I would love to share with you! Enjoy, get out and play!!!!
Things you need to know for Winter Garden Magic
Some plants are attractive all year but really shine in the winter. Of course, you must think beyond just evergreens. Some trees and shrubs have beautiful bark and spectacular winter color like the Red Osier Dogwood 'Baileys Red'. Ornamental grasses provide movement and are luminescent against the snow and go
A FEW MORE POLLINATORS
Besides Hummingbirds, Butterflies and Bees other pollinators include Bats, Flies, Hummingbird Moths and Beetles. Bats are attracted to dull white, green and purple flowers that emit strong, musty odors at night. Flies are attracted to white and cream and green flowers that have putrid odors like Pineapple Lilies, Daisies and
Oriental Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus)
Oriental Bittersweet has become established as this vine is highly attractive as an ornamental. The fruits continue to be sold for dried flower arrangements and are frequently disposed on compost or brush piles where birds and small animals can spread the seeds. Why is this important you ask? Oriental Bittersweet
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