Lovely Lugo...A Stroll Around the Wall

Lugo, the capital city of the province of Lugo, in Galicia, Spain, is the only city in the world that is surrounded by completely intact Roman walls used for protection against Germanic invaders in the 3rd century.

The wall has 10 gates in total, 5 of which are Roman, dating from 263-276 AD, and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The two best preserved gates are Porta Falsa and Porta Miña. Of the original towers, 49 are still intact and another are 39 partially intact.

The entire circuit of the wall, which measures nearly 2 kilometers, is accessible to visitors and has been traveled by pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago since the Middle Ages, who most often passed through Porta Miña on their way to Santiago de Compostela. 

Within the confines of the wall is the old city, featuring a cathedral dedicated to St. Mary, originally built in 1129, though the facade and towers date to 1769.

There is much to see along the wall, from the modernity of Lugo's bustling city streets to the echoes of long past within the old city paths.

You lookin' at me?

Once you finish walking the perimeter of the wall, stroll around Plaza Mayor. Its large lawn area is close to the cathedral and hosts numerous cafes and restaurants overlooking the Plaza where you can get a coffee con leche, a tinto or a caña, as well as a tapa or two. You can people watch, admire the art, or just relax.

Lugo is only about an hour's drive from La Coruña and provides the perfect day trip excursion. If you're ever in Galicia, on a UNESCO World Heritage Site tour, or in Spain looking for something to see, consider the city Lugo and the Roman Wall and wonder at the stories those stones could tell.

Have you been to Lugo? What UNESCO Sites have you seen? Inspire me. 

Happy 2nd Anniversary to Us

Today is our anniversary...seven years together, two years married. We are blessed.

"I have for the first time found what I can truly love -- I have found you. You are my sympathy -- my better self -- my good angel -- I am bound to you with a strong attachment. I think you good, gifted, lovely: a fervent, a solemn passion is conceived in my heart; it leans to you, draws you to my centre and spring of life, wraps my existence about you -- and, kindling in pure, powerful flame, fuses you and me in one."    ~Charlotte Bronte

I give you my hand,
I give you my love more precious than money,
I give you myself before preaching or law:
Will you give me yourself? Will you come travel with me?
Shall we stick by each other as long as we live?

~Walt Whitman

I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where.
I love you straightforwardly, without complexities or pride;
so I love you because I know no other way
than this: where I does not exist, nor you,
so close that your hand on my chest is my hand,
so close that your eyes close as I fall asleep.

~Pablo Neruda

Here's to another year of love and laughter...of travel and adventure...and of mixing up the glasses and the toothbrushes.

Happy Anniversary to my love. Happy Anniversary to us! Amor para siempre.

Date night al fresco...at home

When the weather warms, the living gets a bit easier. There is no equivalent for a lovely night outside, under the stars with someone you love. If you want an easy, no-cook dinner, here's 5 things to gather for your party. 

1. Start with a cocktail or a cocktail. 
In the morning, before work, prepare a pitcher of my famous sangria. It is not too sweet and it is a crowd-pleaser, even with a romantic crowd of two. 

Get the recipe here. 

2. Build a charcuterie plate. 
Use a big wooden cutting board and assemble your favorite creamy cheeses and savory meats for the beginnings of a charcuterie board that you can make your own. Here's what we put on ours:

• Manchego cheese from Spain
• Local smoked gouda or aged Vermont cheddar
• A creamy goat cheese infused with honey or fig, or coated with blueberries or cranberries and cinnamon.
• Prosciutto
• Jamon Serrano, if we can find it, or Spanish Chorizo 
• French baguette
• Gherkins for a sweet bite or dill or half-sour pickles
• Assorted dried fruits, like figs, dates, or apricots. 
• A sprinkling of nuts, or olives.
• Add whatever you like...make it yours. 

And if charcuterie's not your thing, bring home a pizza and share it on a blanket under the stars with a bottle of wine or your beverage of choice.

3. Mood music. 

Our go-to Pandora station is Diana Krall, but consider a station featuring Sade, or Chris Botti or Miles Davis...or a station that's relevant to you and your love. Bluetooth wireless speakers make it so easy to stream music these days. Have a favorite playlist ready to go? Enjoy!

4. Candles/tiki torches/fire bowl

Here in Massachusetts, may flies take pride in their name. They arrive en masse and at times, overstay their welcome...perhaps waiting for their cousins, the mosquitoes. Regardless of these unwelcome visitors, stay safe and create a romantic barrier of light with candles, tiki torches or a fire bowl so the only nibbles you get come from your love. 

5. Dessert

If you have a fire pit, s'mores seem like the go-to dessert. But with a couple of minutes in the microwave tempering chocolate, you can have chocolate-covered strawberries, or cherries, or whatever is in season. 

Or, if you're not a chocolate person, try this with strawberries...dip them in sour cream and then in brown sugar. I know it sounds crazy, but it's divine 

And of course, if you're lucky enough to live to a farm close by, ice cream stands are a hot bed of romance. After all, it was here that I met my own husband. 

Two spoons, one ice cream...now, that's romantic. 

Or better yet, one spoon...you get the idea.

So we're here. Por fin!  We have waited a loooonnnggg time for this weather. Enjoy it. Soak up every last second and savor these nights you wish would last forever. 

It's spring time, and the living's easy. Or, if the not the living...at least the loving. Enjoy!

Besos...

Inspire me...what's your perfect outdoor date night?

Visit Spain: La Coruña, Galicia..5 Must-See Sites

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Tucked in the northwest corner of Spain is the region of Galicia. Santiago de Compostela, the political capital of the region, is the destination for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago across Spain, but La Coruña, the provincial capital, is a must-see unto itself. Located along the Costa de Morte, or Death Coast, the area around La Coruña is marked by quaint fishing villages, jagged sea cliffs and lighthouses.

La Coruña is Galicia's second largest city overall, behind Vigo. It is a port city on a peninsula, whose history dates back to the second century BCE, when the original Celtic tribes were  first visited by the Romans. Later, it is reported that Julius Caesar arrived in Coruña, around 62BCE, in search of a metal trade, hoping to establish commerce with Portugal, France, and England.

Characteristic of Spain, much has changed since the visit of the Romans, but, much remains as well. If you have the opportunity to visit Galicia, make your way to La Coruña, or A Coruña as it is called in Galician. 

La Coruña is a 6 hour drive from Madrid, but its airport serves most Spanish destinations, as well as service to and from London, Lisbon, Paris and Amsterdam; and its busy port disembarks more than 60 cruise ships per year. 

When you arrive, plan to visit these fun sites.

1 Torre de Hércules or the Tower of Hercules

The 180 foot (55m) tower is the oldest Roman lighthouse, as well as the oldest continually operated lighthouse in the world, believed to be in operation since the second century AD. Built under Trajan, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Cite in 2009. The myth is that Hercules fought and buried the head and weapons of his rival, Geryon, and ordered that a city be built upon the site. Overlooking the North Atlantic Coast, the Tower offers spectacular views as well as an opportunity to meet this guy at the lower sculpture park.

2. Mount of San Pedro Park
For even better views, especially at sunset, head up to the Mount of San Pedro. A former military fort, this park is accessible by funicular or scenic winding road with views of the Millennium Obelisk and a mosaic octopus, which plays homage to the beloved pulp gallego, the region's signature dish. And you can dine at one of Galicia's most famous restaurants, the Mirador de San Pedro.

3. Paseo Maritimo/ The Promenade
No visit to a seaside city or town is complete without a stroll along the beach. Paseo Maritimo, or The Promenade does not disappoint. One of the longest in Europe, this 9km walk (eventually 13km) offers both ocean and city views, including the city's beaches, Riazor and Orzan on the upper side of the peninsula. The port is on the lower side. 

4. Maria Pita Square
The city's Plaza Mayor in the Old Town (Ciudad Vieja) is named after La Coruña's heroine, who is said to have climbed the city's highest wall to defend La Coruña against the English armada, led by Sir Francis Drake, in 1589, following her husband's death. Be sure to eat some seafood, including the signature pulp gallego or a tapa and albariño and listen to street performers playing Galician bagpipes, gaita galega.

5. Marineda City Shopping Center
If you're up for a little retail therapy, check out the largest shopping complex in all of Spain and the third largest in all of Europe. Marineda City features anchor stores, such as Decathalon and Ikea, as well as entertainment, including bowling, and ice rink, go carts and a movie theatre.  Fun trivia: La Coruña is House of Zara founder Amancio Ortega. You can visit the original store downtown.

Galicia is often overlooked for the more temperate, sun-soaked destinations in the South. However, the staggering landscape, the kind and humble Gallegos, and the hearty and fresh regional specialties makes Galicia a must-see and La Coruña has it all. 

Even this guy...

And it's not hard to imagine why. 

Blessed: Teachers Make a Difference

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week and I am blessed to have had so many wonderful teachers in my life. 

I am equally blessed to work with some amazing, dedicated teachers as well. 

Looking back, there are two teachers that come to mind easily, with smiles and love. 

I remember that I was afraid. I never went to Kindergarten and I knew I would have to show what I knew. 

I wondered what the other kids, who did go to Kindergarten, knew. 

I remember sitting on the bench outside the office. 

The principal came out and sat next to me. Showtime.

I timidly recited my ABCs and I counted as high as I could. I even counted to 10 in Spanish, because I had learned it on Sesame Street. 

I was in.

Sr. Mary was my 1st grade teacher. She was the kindest, most gentle soul I had ever met outside of my own family.  I had the wonderful occasion to see her again, not too long ago. She took her hand and placed it on the side of my cheek, looked into my eyes and smiled. 

My heart was so full; it felt like it would burst. I felt like a child once again, hoping that I had pleased her with the adult I had become. I felt so proud to tell her that I had become a teacher as well. And I wanted her to know how loved she was. 

And then, in 5th grade, I had Mrs. Fraticelli. She was my English teacher. She was was stern, yet kind...a woman with tremendously high expectations for excellence...and thank God! She made me *want* to strive for excellence, because it was right that I expect excellence of myself. 

Thank you, Sr. Mary, and Mrs. Fraticelli. You made a difference...in this girl's life for sure. 

Who was your favorite teacher? Share a happy memory. 

Visit Massachusetts: Central Mass

When people think of Massachusetts, Boston is what comes to mind most often; however, there is so much more to the Commonwealth than its capital city. 

Central Massachusetts is home to the second largest city, Worcester. 

Union Station, Worcester

Worcester is known for its many colleges and universities, including Worcester State University, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and Clark University. 

The Hanover Theatre boasts national acts as well as a number of Broadway touring companies and the Armsby Abbey taps into the area's love of craft beer. Shrewsbury Street is a foodie destination, with restaurants featuring the city's top chefs offering the best of fresh, local ingredients, as well as eclectic, creative gastronomy.

Leominster, Mass is the birthplace of both Johnny Appleseed and the pink plastic flamingo lawn ornament, made famous by Donald Featherstone in 1957. It is also known as the Plastics Capital of the World. 

Explore Old Sturbridge Village and see the workings of a 19^th century town, and if you like antiques, check out Brimfield, home to the giant Brimfield Antiques show. 

Old Sturbridge Village

Pick apples at any of the area's apple orchards or sample the best ice cream at farms with the cows out back. Follow the Johnny Appleseed trail and explore the Tower Hill Botanic Garden, a Shaker village, or sample wine at the Nashoba Valley Winery. 

Climb Mount Wachusett for area views, and at times on a clear day, even Boston itself. Or venture out onto the serene car-free rail trails, perfect for walking, biking, jogging and, on the paved trails, roller blading.

Mass Central Rail Trail

Head farther west on Route 2 and explore the flagship Yankee Candle Company, or  the nooks and crannies of the Montague Book Mill, for "books you don't need in a place you can't find." 

Don’t forget to get yourself a latte at any of the region’s independent coffee houses and bakeries. 

Massachusetts is so much more than Boston and Cape Cod. Central Massachusetts has a little of everything, for city and country mice alike.

Have you ever explored Central Massachusetts? Where are your favorite places?

Ahora: May

Happy May! 

I love seeing what others are up to every month and the items that cross their radar. Naturally, I thought it would be fun to do my own. 

Ahora, meaning Now in Spanish, will be a monthly series that gives you the highlights of what's going on in my life each month. 

What I'm reading...

• James Patterson's Private London...for fun
• Eric Jenson's Teaching with Poverty in Mind and Ruby Payne's A Framework for Understanding Poverty...for one of two post-Masters graduate classes I'm taking.

And my favorite blogs this month:

• Spiced Peach Blog. Peggy is a gifted food writer and story teller whose recipes and photography becomes like a visit with an old friend. A must-see.
• Till Then, Smile Often--Kerry is an inspiration. Her #BetheChange2014 campaign of random acts of kindness is proof that you can be the change you wish to see in the world. 
• Northeast Bloggers' Network--Though this organization is little more than a year old, Rachel has created a network of bloggers from the Northeast United States that has become a supportive circle of friends. From featured blogs of the week to opportunities to blog hop and share social media outlets, there is something for everyone. If you are a northeast blogger, consider joining us. 

What I'm watching

• Dexter. I just discovered this series on Netflix and just made it through the first season. Yikes! It's a nail-biter for sure. 

• Master Chef España. We have TVE here in the States, a channel from Spain and we are lucky to be able to see some great Spanish television, like Isabel and, for me, the foodie, Master Chef España. And the good thing is, I understand a lot more this season than last season. Winning!

What I'm eating

• Avocado and hummus roll-ups
• And drinking...iced coffee with skim and Splenda. 

What I'm wearing

• Spring has finally sprung here in New England. Nothing says warm weather like a maxi dress. It hides a multitude of sins, is comfortable and easy to style up with cute accessories and sandals.

What I'm doing

• This spring, I'm investing in ME and have hired a personal trainer. He is pushing me to my physical limits. I love it. I haven't lost any weight, but I'm definitely getting stronger. 

What I'm listening to

• Still loving Happy and now love the new John Legend song All of Me.

Making my heart smile

• Finalizing our trip to Spain for the summer and purchasing our flights.
• Planning a trip to Florida to see my niece and family.
• Our anniversary is this month...2 years married and 7 years together.

My goals for the month

• Strength train three times per week, not just two with my trainer.
• Eliminate my use of disposable water bottles and only use a refillable one.
• Increase my water intake to at least 80 ounces per day.

And there you have it...what is happening Ahora in my world. 

Your turn...what is happening in your world these days?

Look Up

This came across my Facebook feed. It sends a powerful message. It's definitely worth its five minutes.

What do you think? Are we missing something as we become more "connected"?

Second Anniversary Gift Guide

Happy May!

It's our anniversary month and I can't believe we are approaching our second wedding anniversary (and seven years together). What a wonderful, amazing ride it's been thus far. We are blessed, indeed.

We are fairly traditional people and I cherish the traditions and rituals we have established as a couple. We were engaged in Paris and we included some Parisian influences in our wedding. 

Our honeymoon was in Spain later that summer, but we wanted a way to mark the occasion closer to the actual wedding date. 

It was my sweet husband who suggested that, if we couldn't go to Paris, we should go somewhere where we can channel that French spirit, like Montreal or Quebec City or New Orleans. 

And if we couldn't do that, we should go to a French bistro for dinner. 

And if we couldn't do that, we would drink French wine at home and eat a baguette. 

You get the idea. 

He's a love.

Our first year, we did go to Montreal. And it was lovely. 

This year, we will go back to Montreal or Quebec City. And we will drink French wine and eat a baguette. Or a croissant. Or all of the above.

Back at home, for our first anniversary, we went traditional and, honoring the suggestion of paper, we wrote each other a letter. We stayed at the inn where we were married. Back at home, we watched our wedding video. As far as anniversaries go, it was spectacular.

This year, the traditional second anniversary gift is cotton. So I went to the clearinghouses of all things creative: Pinterest and Etsy. 

And now, I have something lovely for our anniversary that honors the suggested gift of cotton. 

If you or someone you know is celebrating a second anniversary, here are some gift ideas.

1. A new duvet or quilt for your bed. 

2. An artistic print noting your name and anniversary date.

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3. Monogrammed cloth napkins...romantic and environmentally sound. A win-win. Sometimes, you can find hand towels (that can double as napkins) with initials at the Christmas Tree Shoppe...very budget friendly.


4. A monogrammed throw pillow case

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5. Pajamas--top for you, bottom for him.

6. Your wedding vows or the lyrics to your first dance on canvas

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7. A personalized throw for cuddling and canoodling

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8. A picnic blanket for a romantic picnic for two.

9. A special table cloth or runner you can use for a romantic anniversary dinner (along with your toasting glasses and wedding candles, if you used them).

10.  How about a hammock built for two?

It's fun to play with tradition and themes. It gets the creative juices flowing.

What are your ideas for cotton based anniversary gifts?