Massimo Ravinale has just come out with some fabulous silk slippers. They have leather on the bottom, and a variety of silk patterns. They are in a beautiful case, too. I think they are perfect for travel, or even just at home.

The silk pillows are wonderful too!

Massimo has acquired a new store space in addition to his current shops. It is not quite finished yet, but open for business.

Kiki and I spent a few days on the Amalfi Coast, which was wonderful. We stayed in Cetara, a small fishing village in a beautiful hotel on the beach. There were very few tourists and the weather was perfect. Kiki made a new friend, too, a darling Spitz!

It is a busy May with lots of shopping tours coming up. But I have set aside a few days in early June to go to Lake Maggiore. It will start to get hot then, so a little trip north, where it is cooler will be just the thing!

Renaissance costumes, drums, horses and lots of different types of people made up the parade we were caught in on Saturday. It was an historic-style procession during the annual “International Days of Houses of Memory”. This is the day that there is a citywide opening of historic homes, such as Casa Guidi, the home of Robert and Elizabeth Barret Browning, Casa Buonarroti and other residences of notable figures.

We were on a shopping tour and visiting our favorite shoe shop, Goccia, when the parade began. We were nearly trapped!

I was glad that Kiki stayed home for this shopping trip. It was way too crowded for her. Kiki’s outing was coffee later on with our darling friend, Sophie.

The spring shopping season is in full swing here, and I am already selecting new shoes and a handbag! More photos to come.

This year, it is unusually chilly and windy the week before Easter. The wind is so strong that there is an Orange Warning, which means to limit travel due to falling branches, etc. But, the weather is improving, and it will be in the mid 70’s by Easter Sunday. The Italians call it marzo pazzo (crazy March).

The famous Vestri chocolate shop is filled with beautiful Easter eggs, bunnies, etc.

I did buy a few chocolate bunnies here, but found much better prices at the tabaccheria nearby. Here, I found vintage designed tin eggs filled with little chocolate eggs. The shop isn’t as beautiful as Vestri, however!

Kiki and I are out walking several times a day usually, and soaking up all the festive Easter vibes. Time to wear my custom made Easter earrings!

When the daffodils start to flower, I start to pack my bags for Florence! I can’t wait to see all the new spring fashion and soak up the warm Italian sunshine.

Last weekend we were in Canada on Vancouver Island for dog shows. 3 All Breed, 2 Toy Specialties and the Canadian Pomeranian National Regional. Kiki was amazing, winning 5 Winner’s Bitch, 3 Best of Winners and even one Best of Breed over 2 Specials. I am still learning what all that means, but her handler was thrilled! And she is quite impressed with herself…

I may have to ask the goldsmith to make a special collar for her!

I have my eye on these earrings, and I know where I can get a WAY better price!

I am starting to book shopping tours for this spring now. I will be available at various times March 20- June18. Come shop with me and meet the little diva, Kiki!

My darling friend, Abbey came up with that line: Beauty is Our Duty. It made me laugh at the time, but I have never forgotten it.

In these cold, rainy winter days, I find myself seeing how long I can slosh around in my bathrobe before getting dressed. I live in yoga pants and big sweaters. Then I remember Abbey’s quote, and put on some of my Florentine jewelry!

Just looking at these gorgeous pieces from Florence makes me excited to return.

I have been thinking that I need a new handbag for spring, and this one is the front runner.

Next weekend, Kiki and I are going to Vancouver Island for five dog shows. We hope to add a Canadian victory to our AKC Grand Champion title. But Rocco will have to stay at home with the family….he does not like the dog shows!

Rocco and Kiki love the “No Hide” chews they received in their Christmas stockings!

Kiki earned her Grand Championship after Thanksgiving here in Washington, and we will be showing her in Canada soon, hoping for a Canadian Championship. Winning is fun!

We will be back in Florence mid-March, and taking tourists shopping for gold jewelry and leather goods. I wear my Fope bracelets and the Pomellato Nudo ring almost every day. With Valentine’s Day coming up soon, I will be wearing my red garnet and pink sapphire ring.

Maybe some new earrings for spring in pink!