18 September 2006
London Breakaway
08 September 2006
Elderberry / Sambuco Season
We are currently in the thick of Sambuco production. Sambuco is the Latin name for Elderberry. I have found that when I am trying to find out what the name of local plants are the common name is usually the Latin name or a derivative of it. That has made it easier for me to figure out what it actually is. Although the species may be different here in
In the spring time I love to gather Elderberry florets for making Sambuco syrup that makes a lovely refreshing spring spritzer or lemonade mixed with sparkling water and a handy simple syrup to add to a fast fresh fruit salad to sweeten it and give it that subtle under current of flavor that is hard to guess what it is. The florets make decadent fritters with a touch of maple syrup that comes out of my small horde of
04 September 2006
1st Edition Serre Marchetto Mt Bike Baby
The first edition of our neighborhood childrens mountain bike race took place yesterday in our little borgata of Serre Marchetto. It was blue skies, warm weather and plenty of family and neighbors to cheer everybody on. There were about 50 participants in the races that was put on for the 7-12 crowd. They used a section of our backyard x country course for the circuit with the youngest doing one lap and increasing the laps for the older racers.
It was fun to see everyone enjoying the woods and encouringing young people to get out and have a go with their bikes in the woods for a little friendly competition. There were a few tears and a spill or two, but no injuries and in the end everone was a winner getting a goodie bag with lots of loot. The local were merchants were generous as most Italians have a very soft spot when it comes to bambini! There were smiles all round when it came time for trophies and prizes. Our English friend, George won a trophy for being an international competitor, although we did explain that he is now a resident sinc he and his family "got a new life" here in Val Chisone 3 years ago. The organizers were excited anyway and Geroge was happy to get a trophy as well.
Fun for everyone.