An End of Summer Reunion

Me, Momma Singleton and my friend, Keli

When I met Keli in 1997 in Bumstead Hall at Clark Atlanta University, I knew she would be a lifelong friend. She was a fellow DIIIIIVAAA and we really got to know each other on the Dorm Step Team. Here we are 21 years later – still one of my best friends.  When I am in the country we try to meet once a year.  Last year Mom and I went to St. Louis, where she is from, so this year Keli and her Mom blessed us with a visit to Virginia.  Mom and I could not wait to host these two and the weekend was FABULOUS! 

They say, “Virginia is For Lovers” because you truly can get everything you love in Virginia – and what we chose to love was history, wine, good food, amazing scenic views and moonshine.  (Well the moonshine was in Wild and Wonderful West Virginia, but more on that later).

Richmond, VA - Food and History 

Hundreds flock to Washington DC to visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture but did you know in Richmond, VA there is a wonderful option:  Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia (122 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23220, http://blackhistorymuseum.org/).  It is less crowded, interactive and their gift store sells reasonably priced purses, shirts, shoes and earrings created with traditional African materials (kente, chitenge, etc) as well as  featuring art created by local Black artists! You can buy the tickets online or upon arrival for $10. Unfortunately, during our visit the second floor was closed as they prepare for a new exhibit which is set to start 28 September:  Fighting for the Right to Fight (http://blackhistorymuseum.org/event/fighting-for-the-right-to-fight/). I would highly recommend a visit!

Keli finds a plant in the corner and sees a photo op …

I clearly support this haha

After the museum, it was time to eat.  What better place to have a late lunch than Momma J’s Kitchen (http://mamajskitchen.com/)! The restaurant was a short walk from the museum.  We had a 40 minute wait as the location is small but the wait was worth it! The food was amazing!  Mom and I both enjoyed the fried pork chops.  I enjoyed mine with rice and collard greens while mom ordered a side of macaroni and cheese as well as collard greens.  The macaroni and cheese was AMAZING and I almost wish I ordered that instead but with my pork chops smothered in homemade gravy, the rice was perfect! For dessert, please request the homemade buttercream on buttercream cake – it was moist and amazing!  We were advised that their homemade coconut / pineapple cake is their #1 seller.  Now to figure out WHEN I can return to try a slice of that cake!  

I asked for the gravy on the side...trying to be responsible LOL

It's wine time!

Sip, sip away Saturday

The rain, rain, went away (thank you for skipping us Florence!) a\nd this meant we were ready for a beautiful day in Purceville, VA – it’s wine time! First vineyard up, Breaux Vineyard: https://www.breauxvineyards.com/!  The view at Breaux Vineyard is gorgeous! My friend and I enjoyed a standard wine tasting and we both really enjoyed a wine that was not on the tasting menu:  2013 Meritage.  It is a bold, big bodied wine.  Great for pairing with steak or simply sitting and catching up with friends.

Tasting Menu

Wine and a View

Meritage 2013

Hey ladies!

After enjoying a tasting, a bottle of the 2013 Meritage and catching up, we all decided it was time to move to the next vineyard which was less than a mile away – 868 Estate Vineyard: https://868estatevineyards.com/.  This vineyard was very accommodating when it came to the tasting options.  They allowed one of us to only do white wine, red wine as well as an Elevated tasting which included sweet and salty bites paired perfectly with their wine.  I would suggested the Elevated Tasting as the nibbles were delicious and paired very nicely with the wine.  My favorite pairing was the 2016 Merlot (what? MERLOT?? Yes, Merlot) with the red wine poached sackel pear, goat cheese and truffle oil.  So many flavors that compliment each other and the pear was perfectly crisp.

Elevated Tasting Bites

This tasting may or may not ruin your appetite but if it does not, please do yourself a favor and dine at the restaurant on the property – Grandale (https://868estatevineyards.com/grandale-restaurant/)!  Mom started the party by ordering the Prawn Charmoula.  The prawns were perfectly cooked and the sauce was spicy, buttery, perfect.  Keli enjoyed the Mesclin Salad.  The strawberries were sweet and this sweetness was perfectly joined by the saltiness of the goat cheese and pecans. Momma Singleton opted for a small meal so she chose the Short Rib Poutine and enjoyed every single bite! “These sweet potatoes remind me of my own… I have not had sweet potatoes this good outside of my house!” She was impressed!  For dinner my mother ordered and very much enjoyed the Duck Breast.  My friend Keli and I both enjoyed the 6oz Filet Mignon.  It was perfectly cooked and accompanied by fingerling potatoes and asparagus.  You would think we would not have room for dessert but we did!  The table shared the Three Berry Crème Brulee and the Cheesecake drizzled with fresh honey and granola.  Please skip the crème brulee and spoil yourself with the cheesecake.  It was the best cheesecake I have ever had! The honey provided just enough sweetness and the granola a special crunch with the crust.  Amazing!

The Prawn Charmoula

Mesclin Salad

Short Rib Poutine

6oz Filet Mignon 

Duck Breast

Thre Berry Crème Brulee

The Cheesecake.  Please save room for this!

OK now we are full and ready for one last tasting.  We cross state lines and enter Wild and Wonderful West Virginia.  Why?  Moonshine and Gambling ha Before checking into our hotel and going to the Casino, we stop at the Bloomery Distillery (http://bloomerysweetshine.com/).  The tasting is free and while the pours appear small, trust me, that is all you need.  We tasted 9 (yes, NINE) different moonshines and they were amazing!  I purchased my favorite three:  Cre (botanical goodness – think “will pair well with gin!”), Ginger Shine (sweet and spicy, like biting into fresh ginger) and Crema Lemma (reminds me of a creamy limoncello – a creamy after dinner option).

There really is not a reason to talk much about the casino haha (I did win my money back plus $160 so I left happy ha).  Keli learned (somewhat) how to play roulette and apparently I should bet on RED.  It was hard to find a poker table that was not overcrowded but next time she learns to play poker!

Spa Day Sunday

Finally, no vacation is complete with a little spa time.  The day before departing, Keli and I enjoyed 90 minute massages at Stafford Massage and Healing Arts (http://staffordvamassage.com/).  This is my regular go to for a massage as well as for facials.  Of course Keli really enjoyed her time there as well!  Not only are they reasonably priced ($105 for a 90 minute massage) but there are other services such as an oxygen bar, energy work, a meditation room and much more.  The energy is cleansing and they are here for your overall well-being.   This is also where I purchase my sage and other herbs to purify my home, bedroom and general space. After the spa we enjoyed wine, sake, sushi and girl chat.

Spa Time

Sushi Time

All in all it was an amazing long weekend, filled with love, great chats, hugs, food, wine and bonding. We are in talks about our next Mother/Daughter adventure, but it is looking like July in Chicago 2019! 

"Close friends are truly life's treasures". Vincent van Gogh

The Cocktail of the Weekend: The Snow White Bite Martini
 (2oz Vodka, 1oz Crown Apple, 1oz Sour Apple Pucker and a dash of orange bitters.
Shake with ice, serve straight up).  
**Just give me credit if you use recipe and photograph** XOXO 

Summer Lovin': Milan, Cinque Terre and Venice, Italy

"The Creator made Italy from designs by Michelangelo." Mark Twain

I was privileged enough to be a guest at a beautiful wedding in Milan, Italy.  The universe truly plotted to ensure my presence at the wedding, allowing me another opportunity to see Italy.  This time I would see more of Northern Italy and wow - North or South - Italy is simply gorgeous!

My first time in Italy was by way of a cruise.  There were several ports of call and I left the boat for every single one in Italy! Read all about that adventure in this entry: My Maiden Voyage: Lessons Learned During my First Cruise

This time, during my brief time in Northern Italy (all on land) I was able to eat delicious food, sip bold wines and be sun-kissed while taking in gorgeous views in not only Milan but also Cinque Terre and Venice.  Every city was different and known for a special something - something that guarantees my return when I have more time and money to spend!

*PRO TIP: Bring comfy, super comfy walking shoes when visiting Italy! During my time in Italy I averaged waking over 11,000 steps a day! In Venice alone, I walked over 17,000 steps! Hmm maybe that is why even with all the wine, pasta, pizza and desserts, I still managed to lose 2lbs that week!*

Milan

Milan was very interesting. As soon as I stepped out of the train station, I immediately thought, "New York" - I was surrounded by tall buildings, hotels, taxi cabs, women in heels running for the train and men in suits reading the newspaper.  It is the second-most populous city in Italy after Rome and is known to be a fashion and design hub. What to buy when in Milan:  when in Milan pause for a moment to have an espresso.  After you have renewed energy, find your way to Fashion District, also known as "Quadrilatero della Moda." You will find Dolce&Gabbana, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Valentino, Ermenegildo Zegna, Versace and more! Just remember the exchange rate and do not forget to budget ha

Villa Borromeo, where two became ONE 💕

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Wills

Witnessed a gorgeous wedding!

Cinque Terre

Whenever in Italy, please visit Cinque Terre!! Cinque Terre is a string of centuries-old seaside villages on the Italian Riviera coastline. We visited 3 of the 5: La Spezia, Vernazza and my fave, Manarola. Each boasted of colorful houses, great food, amazing wine and bring your walking shoes because you will be hiking steep terraces to enjoy these gorgeous views! What to buy when in Cinque Terre: PESTO!! It is absolutely amazing!! It is good on pasta or on toasted focaccia bread with a variety of cheese, olive oil and salami. 

*PRO TIP: Once you have planned your trip to Cinque Terre, take a few weeks to train your body for uphill cardio! The views are gorgeous but they are earned by hiking up stairs and/or cement walk ways on a steep incline.  As you can see, the hike is 100% worth the view!

Vernazza

Vernazza at night

Manarola

Manarola

Pause for a photo in Manarola

Nicole taking a moment in Manarola

Venice

Venice is serene, mesmerizing, gorgeous, romantic and full of history. Venice is actually 118 small islands that are separated by canals and linked by bridges. What to buy when in Venice:  Venice is known for romantic gondola rides but did you also know it is known for: lace, hand-blown glass, handmade Venetian masks and prosecco! Small souvenirs I purchased were hand made and painted Venetian mask magnets, hand blown wine, tumbler and shot glasses and of course I bought plenty of prosecco!   Venice is a sexy destination and I definitely plan to return!

A typical "street" -- or alley. Either way it has a name so
do not get lost!

Fun fact: 80% of Venetian residents own a boat. I think the
reason is obvious ha

One of many bridges that link the islands

The water was quite green and clean.  The city may appear to be sinking but
wow was it a calming experience to ride the calm waters.

The gondola ride is quite pricey at 80 Euro for 30 minutes but WORTH IT!

Time to ride!

My gondolier was funny and we spoke completely in Spanish.
He also kept singing in Spanish. Very nice experience!

You must be licensed by a guild to become a gondolier and this is not
easy -- usually only 3 or 4 new licenses are issued a year!

Where to Eat

When in Italy -- pasta, pizza and wine! 

Let's start with Milan:

Ristorante Pizzeria Maruzzella: a small, quaint restaurant with delicious pizza and pasta. Also, I love the family style way in which they serve their house wine - in clay pitchers! Fun fact: the chef explained that pizza in Italy should apparently take no more than 3 minutes because they are fired to perfection in wood fire ovens! 

The pizza (diavola) was hot and delicious! 

Pass the wine please!

Noblesse Oblige (http://www.ristorantenoblesseoblige.com/en/): wow the food here was delicious! They also have half bottle of wine for a very reasonable price.  The dish I enjoyed (pictured), hear me out ha, was DELICIOUS! I enjoyed the Filet Noblesse which was a tender filet topped with a mustard brandy peppercorn sauce and bacon. The flavors were amazing!

Filet Noblesse

A great compliment to dinner!

Dry Milano (http://www.drymilano.it/):  This restaurant is so comfortable and yet sexy - perfect for a date night! I went way outside of my box to try pizza which actually had no sauce but was topped with salted scallions and Italian sausage crumbles. It was amazing! My friend was not full so she ordered pistachio ice cream - it was DIVINE! It was perfectly sweet, not salty and complimented with an almond cookie crumble. Do yourself a favor and save room for this dessert when at Dry Milano!

The menu is a rotating menu so get your favorite pizzas
while they are still on the menu!

The perfect way to end the night!

Next up, Cinque Terre:

The Wine Experience in Vernazza:  At the top of a very steep set of stairs you will find this gem! Something you should know: they only take cash so bring plenty of euro as the wine here is amazing and prices range per tasting and by the glass.  The sommelier, Alessandro, is friendly, knowledgeable and simply gracious! The view is gorgeous and the atmosphere is relaxing.  Now, do not drink too much at the top...it is a steep walk down!

Saluti from the top!

Enjoy a nice cheese, meat and bread tray for 10 Euro!

Nicole enjoys the wine and the view!

That after wine glow haha

Ristorante Gianni Franzi in Vernazza (http://www.giannifranzi.it/): Once we walked down safely from The Wine Experience, we were hungry and looking for something delicious.  As we walked to view the menu for Gianni Franzi, a gentleman from Vernazza raved about their food and insisted we eat here, so we did! Suggestion: if you want to eat outside, make a reservation in advance. Unfortunately, we did not have a reservation so we ate inside and after my meal, I was happy no matter what the view! The pasta is light, the pesto was PERFECT and the BEST I have ever had and finally, the tiramisu was a culinary delight! This is one place I would return to anytime I am in Vernazza!

Pasta with mussels, olive oil, basil, fresh pepper and tomatoes.
Nothing else was necessary!

MY GOODNESS THE PESTO IS SO GOOD! Did I mention
I bought 3 jars home???

The absolute best tiramisu I have ever eaten!

Reasonably priced bottle of rose which went perfectly
with our meal.

Nessun Dorma in Manarola (https://www.nessundormacinqueterre.com/):  Another steep climb to find a treasure at the top! We stood in line for 20 minutes but once seated we enjoyed the view, wine and cocktails! They are known for their Limoncino Spritzer so make sure you enjoy one with the view at the top!

Saluti with a Limoncino Spritzer

Notice the pesto? It was delicious with the salami, toasted bread and asiago cheese!

Let's end with Venice:

On my way to the train station, after walking all over the city for 7 hours, I was tired, my feet hurt and I was thirsty! I tiredly stopped at a cafe next to the train station and enjoyed a glass (or two) of perfectly chilled prosecco.  It was so good, I bought a bottle! Do not leave Venice without a bottle of prosecco!

Treat yo self with some PROSECCO when in Venice!

If you have favorite places to eat, see or have a nice glass of wine when in Milan, Cinque Terre or Venice, I would love to hear about it! How else will I know where to go the next time I am in one of those cities? (Hear that Universe?)

Finally, I would like to thank my friend, Nicole, for being such a gracious host and tour guide! She truly helped to make this experience unforgettable (and affordable)! May God bless her abundantly!

Until the next time loves, CIAO 💋

XOXO