We have two pet turtles- Oscar and Emily. They are so little and so fun! They live in the bidet in my bathroom (the perfect use for a bidet as far as I am concerned)! Here is a look at their current living conditions.

Have I mentioned lately that I am a total fan of the Cub Scout program? I think it is fantastic! Not only does it provide needed physical and mental challenges for young boys, the program teaches useful skills that the kids will use throughout their lives. In addition Cub Scouts is structured in such a way as to inspire respect, responsibility and hard work- something I have been trying to teach my boys for years.

Fortunately for us the Cub Scout program here in Naples is really strong. There are about 75 boys in our pack and a large number great adult leaders. We even have a huge outdoor recreational facility to meet where the kids can really get out and do things. Last week the boys and I went Day Camp- it was a blast! We shot BB guns, bows and arrows, climbed rock walls, made and raced rockets, played a zillion games, made a ton of crafts and of course learned one too many silly scout songs! It was great.

Here is a picture of Spencer and his scouting friend William. Aren't they cute?

My Boys aren't artists in the traditional sense of the word (i.e. they don't really paint pictures or draw) but they are creative non the less. Here is a look into their creative genius.

This sculpture was made from their car collection the day we told them we were moving to Italy. You can see from the photo that they used red, white and green cars to make an Italian flag. And (this is my favorite) that cute little blob at the bottom is... a boot! I love these guys- they keep me laughing!

Is this a gorgeous picture or what? I love it and will never forget the boat ride back to Venice when we took it! On our last day in Venice we decided to explore the surrounding Islands, Murano, Burano, Lido, Etc. It was awesome. I love the surrounding islands because the are quaint and uncrowded. In any case, at about 6:30 pm we were still on Burano and realized if we didn't leave soon we would miss the last boat back to Venice. So, he hopped on the ferry and headed back. Dad and Spencer and I sat on the top of the boat, outside and this was our view! It really was breathtaking!

One of my favorite activities on our recent trip was feeding the pigeons at St. Mark's Square. Our first day in Venice we arrived early (long before the crowds) and watched a young boy buy pigeon food from a vendor and feed the hundreds of hungry birds who were ready and waiting in the square. It was so funny to watch. The birds were absolutely fearless- eating right out of the hand of anyone with food. It was so much fun to see. It didn't take long for the boys (and me) to want to join in too. Here are a few pictures of the fun!

While Mom and Dad were here we spent a day in Chiavari; the town near Genova where Grandma and Grandpa are from. It was an incredible experience! As side from being a beautiful port town (much like Sausalito) it was a place where all of us, especially Dad felt a special connection. I really cannot describe the what I felt there but it is something I will never forget.Dad on the pier in Chiavari, Italy.

Mom and I went to lunch today and had a frightening "American Style" Pizza. As you can see, it was a thick crust pizza with french fried, hot dogs and cheese- scary! The only reason I ordered it was so I could share it with you on the blog.

I hope you enjoy the picture because my stomach is still recovering from the pizza!

This is a picture taken in Sorrento. Sorrento is a small town on the Amalfi Coast. Robert and I spent our 10th anniversary here- it was awesome! Southern Italy is famous for its beautiful, quaint Amalfi Coast- it is a must see for everyone who comes to visit.

These are some crazy faced kids, don't you think? This picture was taken last summer in Pompeii. Look how white / blonde Ross's hair is- wow!

Did you see Vanessa's post today about her DI find and her handmade sugar cookies. Oh my gosh, it is the cutest thing I have ever seen! Her post reminded me of my tiny cake plate purchase last week and I decided I just had to share it again. Here is the photo.
Why are little things just so darn cute?

The boys and I made pasta today and oh was it fun! It is so easy too- who knew? The best part though by far is the taste. Wow, it takes pasta to a whole new level for me. I am excited to share our homemade Italian pasta with all of our family and friends who come to visit!