Sunday, June 19, 2011

so i went to europe...

In some ways, it's hard to believe this trip happened. Being in Europe with my mom and my grandma was so far removed from my ordinary life, it almost felt like a dream. And it was, in many ways. This is a trip I had long dreamed of - but I am not sure I really thought it would happen. Imagine my (very pleasant) surprise when I proposed the idea to my mom, who proposed it to my grandma, who started her packing list the next day! I am SO glad we went for it. The trip was pretty much perfect. We saw so many familiar, new, and fun places, we made a lot of memories, we spent some laid back down time with relatives, and I got to see the place where my great-grandpa grew up alongside my grandma and mother. It was so meaningful. I will always treasure the time we spent together there. (If you're Facebook friends with me, you may have already seen these - and many more - photos of this trip, but here are a few highlights.)
Grandma and Mom in front of the Bodleian Library in Oxford - we spent the first few days here and it was so great for me to be back, and to be able to show my mom and grandma some of my favorite spots.

The three of us in Bath - I'd never been there before, and loved exploring this city, despite the rainy weather.
The three of us at the Tower of London - I'd been there before, but mom and grandma had not. It's full of history and got us talking and reading about England's royals. Bonus: my friend Stacey flew from Dublin to spend the day with us.
And finally, the three of us in Fijnaart, at the site of my great-grandpa's childhood home.

(And no, I did not wear the same clothes every day - just the same jacket. Too bad that's all you can see in any of the pictures.)

Saturday, June 18, 2011

fritto misto

Jesse and I have been going to Fritto Misto since soon after we moved to SoCal, at the suggestion of a friend. It's not too far from our place and it has amazing food combined with a great atmosphere and service. I feel more comfortable and at home here than I do in many LA places. Aside from Library Alehouse, I would say it's probably my favorite eating establishment in this town. They've also got reasonably-priced (by which I mean "cheap") wine and you can bring your own bottle too. Love this place.




Friday, June 17, 2011