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Paris – here we come!
“Paris is so very beautiful that it satisfies something in you that is always hungry in America.” ― Ernest Hemingway Having European roots and living in the States we understand the accuracy of the quote. However, we believe there are many places in Europe that the same can be said about. My husband and I visited Paris more than thirty years ago, each for individual reasons. While I stayed with my aunt for one month of summer vacation, my husband traveled with the folk dance group. Even though we experienced the city in completely different ways, we both dreamed of coming back. Now, with the kids somewhat grown, we decided…
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The charm of open-faced sandwiches
While growing up, open-faced sandwiches were the only type of sandwiches I knew. We all knew – my neighbors, friends, family. So, I thought there was nothing special to them. We had them for Saturday or Sunday breakfast, or second breakfast (similar to lunch), they were often prepared for family gatherings like birthday parties or holidays. Kids who were picky eaters usually enjoyed them so caring mothers used their imagination and created endless varieties. Once I came to the US, I learned that here, open-faced sandwiches were not very common. Instead a “sandwich” is mostly associated with different ingredients placed between two pieces of bread. While there are many varieties…
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A week in New Hampshire
This year’s vacation we decided to spend in the very picturesque state of New Hampshire. The road took us through vast farmlands of upstate New York and forests of Vermont before we reached North Conway, NH. It has become a tradition and a subject to many jokes that we never rush and stop multiple times to stretch and admire the views. We often double the time needed to reach our destination. Nevertheless, with a bagel in our hand and a smile on our faces we start the journey. There is a wide range of accommodations offered in the White Mountains to match the visitors’ needs and financial abilities. I believe…
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Oh Shenandoah… what a place to visit!
We live on the East Coast within a day long drive from many beautiful vacation destinations. Just 75 miles west from Washington DC, lying on both sides of the Blue Ridge Mountains is Shenandoah National Park, our target picked for last year’s summer trip. Visited by my husband previously, thanks to the work related stay, the park became a place he insisted we needed to see as a family. We started planning few months ahead knowing that the chances of finding a decent hotel decrease with the desired dates approaching. We booked Homewood Suites by Hilton in Charlottesville for the duration of our trip as it was conveniently located, affordable,…
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Reviving old practices ~ Part 2
Exploring the world of organic food and natural medicine can be fascinating. I have observed emerging trend of using plants in dietary recommendations as well as in healing practices. The pandemic lock-downs contributed to relaxed lifestyle for many. I am aware that at the same time it created a havoc for others who lost their jobs, struggled with paying bills and educating kids from home, however, I was fortunate to keep the job and be more available for my family. With more time on my hands, I have also been able to tend to my vegetable garden this year, and enjoy the home grown produce. I realized that many others…
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Reviving old practices ~ Part 1
How often do you realize that certain behaviors of your mother or grandmother, which you made fun of when you were young(er), become your own? Suddenly they make a lot of sense, seem to be so clever, useful, or maybe simply bring peace to your daily hectic life. “Their time” does not seem to be so distant and backwards anymore… I often think of my grandmother, praising her stoic calmness, love she had for everyone, generosity, kindness, compassion, and faith in God. I recall the abundance of knowledge she had of herbs, wild berries, mushroom, gardening, baking, cooking, sewing, and realize how much of it is lost. What’s left are…
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Linen bedding is great!
I am not sure if this is a new trend or I am just new in the subject, but I noticed the rising presence of linen bedding on the market. Linen has been in use for centuries, but its plain, boring look was not considered as attractive in the past decades. The changing attitudes of people looking for alternatives to synthetic fibers, increasingly incorporate this material in the new healthy lifestyles. Curious and concerned, I decided to buy a set for myself and I must admit, it was a great decision! Flax linen has many benefits. Its breathable structure is beneficial for people with sensitive skin and allergies. It is…
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Tired of classic pizza? Try this alternative!
When my daughter was home on a college break, she decided to find out if cooking was of an interest to her. She prepared many dishes and discovered how much work was needed to prepare a meal but also how much satisfaction a delicious dinner shared with family could provide. While looking for ideas on-line, she found the pizza recipe which became the top choice for our family.
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With crafts – there is no room for boredom!
Since my childhood years I have enjoyed crafts especially knitting and sewing. It was not until recently that I also discovered fun in crocheting. I cannot say I reached the comfort level with it yet as I still need to watch videos providing instructions and refer to the explanation of crochet abbreviations. However, working with a hook and single thread is easy enough to provide the comfort of engaging in an activity that is calming but results in a piece that is useful, attractive or both. It all started with a Facebook video that I decided to watch. The video was made by Donna Wolfe from Naztazia.com and like all…
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Trip to Nova Scotia
We live in uncertain times when traveling is being put under a big question mark for many of us. Especially driving or flying abroad. However, the beautiful summer weather brought back memories from a great trip to Nova Scotia we took last year. If you have never visited this Canadian province, I highly recommend considering it in the future. It is a place we will definitely return to. The idea of visiting Nova Scotia came from some article I read about the place on American continent where Gaelic culture was still well present. Being fascinated by Irish and Sottish cultures I wanted to explore the site that somewhat resembles those…