July 2009 - Candelaria Design Italy Tour 2009 ~ September 30th - October 11th

I hope everyone is having a great summer. It's been nice up here in Idaho and I am getting ready to head back for my be-weekly visit to Phoenix - I cannot wait to be back in those 110º + temps!!!

This month's blog is dedicated to our upcoming Italy 2009 trip to Tuscany and Umbria. This will be our 8th tour and I am really looking forward to our first Fall excursion through this absolutely magical place. Over the years we have had some great trips and each year we fine tune things and the trip gets better each year. This is a great way for first time travelers whether to Europe or Italy to really experience the lifestyle, culture and country settings that you would never see on a canned tour. First of all I limit the travelers from between 8 - 12 people, you have your own car, and you stay in beautiful country homes overlooking the Tuscan/Umbrian countryside while enjoying local vintage wines and cusine.



Our trip begins on Wednesday, September 30th whereby we will depart Phoenix and fly to Florence, Italy. We land in Florence on Thursday morning, October 1st, whereby we will check into the Hotel Brunelleschi (http://www.hotelbrunelleschi.it/) for two nights in the heart of Firenze. This hotel is fantastic and is just a few steps from the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Ponte Vecchio. After settling in Thursday morning and getting past the jet lag we are free to tour all that this Renaissance gem has to offer. The David at the Academia, The Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens, the Palazzo Vecchio, the Santa Croce Basillica where Galileo, Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Dante, are all entombed just to name a few. Friday evening we travel up the hills above Florence to dine at the Villa San Michele (http://www.villasanmichele.com/web/ovil/villa_san_michele.jsp). The former monastery, whose facade was designed by Michelangelo overlooks the entire Arno River valley and all of Florence. This dinner is always one of the high points of the trip.





Saturday, October 3rd we grab our cars at the Florence airport and we make our way south of Florence on the Autostrada to the Umbrian countryside and our country houses in the Niccone River Valley. These homes are a real treat and although our guests get a bit spoiled staying in the 4 star hotel in Florence, the quiet, solitude, fresh air, and country tempo make this a real experience for first time travelers to the country. These homes are rustic, and very authentic. Three homes make up this retreat sitting high above the valley floor overlooking castles, farms, and wooded hills on 155 acres. The grounds feature a stunning negative edge pool and beautiful gardens and terraces for relaxing and enjoying a quiet respite from the busy agenda we tackle each day. Our in house chef Melchiorre has a wonderful dinner cooking when we arrive and it is a great way to transition from the hustle and bustle of Florence to the tranquility and hospitality of the country.







Sunday, October 4th we drive to the Villa di Piazanno (http://www.villadipiazzano.com/) for brunch on the terrace. This is one of my favorite places to visit. When we came 10 years ago they had just opened after purchasing the estate and it has been remarkable to see the changes over the last decade. The operators are very friendly and always accommodating to my groups. Their food is fantastic and the scenery here is most memorable. We then venture on to the historic town of Arezzo, Italy and the monthly antique fair and marketplace. We wrap the day with dinner in Cortona, Italy - site of the movie Under the Tuscan Sun. .



Monday, October 5th we start the day with a trip to Cama Deruta for the pottery factory tour, lunch in Deruta, Italy and then we make our way to Assisi, home of St. Francis to tour the church and town wrapping with a fabulous dinner in Assisi.



Tuesday, October 6th is the Wine Tour with my good friend Pino. He always puts on a great tour for us and gets us into some amazing cellars. This is an all day excursion and we meet him early in the morning whereby he rents a van/bus for us so its sipping wine and napping as we wind our way through some of the most picturesque countryside you could ever imagine. During the day we stop in Pienza, Italy for a great lunch followed by a trip to a fabulous olive oil and cheese shop to pick up our wedges of pecorino cheese. Montalcino, Montepulciano, are all stops on this fabulous day. We finish the day with a seven course, family style meal at Mimmi's. This is always voted best meal of the trip in terms of taste!





Wednesday, October 7th starts with a trip to the Farmer's Market in Umbertide, Italy. This is a great market that moves from town to town in the region during the week. We stock up on supplies and farm fresh ingredients for our cooking class and dinner later that evening. During the day we head to Lacole' for our search of architectural antiques and doors. The tour at Lacole' is broken up with a great lunch in one of the small country houses near Citta di Castello, Italy. We make our way back to the country houses in the afternoon to be greeted by Melchiorre and our in-house cooking class. From home made pasta, to salads to main courses cooked over the open flame of the Living Room fireplace this is always a wonderful and relaxing evening.




Thursday, October 8th will be our trip to Siena, Italy. This is probably my favorite town. This rival of Florence sits atop a beautiful hill and has a unique atmosphere all its own. The duomo is amazing and always a definite stop but as with every trip after a busy day of walking and shopping the winding streets we all finally convene at the beautiful Piazza del Campo, the town square. The square is famous for hosting the Palio horse race each year. This is a wonderful space to just sit with a glass of wine, a little antipasto or a gelato (which by the way is amazing in Italy) and just watch life go by. It's always hard to pick yourself up and leave this space - no cars and you get a sense of what life may have been like here hundreds of years ago.



Friday, October 9th, we will say goodbye to the country houses and make our drive to Roma. Last trip we stopped in Orvieto, Italy and that was a good move. The town and Duomo are amazing. Have a little lunch do a little shopping and site seeing then it is on to Rome. We drop the cars off at the Rome airport and then transfer to the Hotel Forum (http://www.hotelforumrome.com/) which yes, is right next to the forum with fabulous views of the ruins. This is a great small boutique hotel with a nice bar and lounge and close proximity to all the action Rome has to offer. We generally grab a late dinner and find our way to the Piazza Navona or the Campo de' Fiori. Both great people watching spaces for the late night crowd.



Saturday, October 10th, is a free day in Rome. We start the day with breakfast on the Hotel Forum rooftop restaurant overlooking all of Rome. What a great way to start the day. Fresh Italian coffee a little croissant and off we go. The Vatican, Colliseum, Pantheon, shopping, food, etc.....it's all good. We generally have a nightcap on the hotel rooftop bar and get ready for the long journey back to Phoenix on Sunday, October 11th.



So that's the trip - its a great trip full of many memories. If any of you past travelers read this blog I encourage you to post some comments for those that are considering the trip this year. We basically have 2 spots left so I encourage you to contact us as soon as possible for information. We plan to close the trip and book our flights on July 31st so time is running out. This is a great way to travel whereby you really have nothing to do but purchase your spot and have your passports ready. It will be a fantastic time of year to see this wonderful place. CALL NOW 602-604-2001 or email me at mark@candelariadesign.com for details. Please join me!

Summer 2009 – Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

It is hard to believe we are already at the halfway point of 2009! Boy, what a busy first half of the year. It’s nice to have the time, and luxury, to return to my back-and-forth, Phoenix to Coeur d’Alene, summer schedule.




In many ways it feels as if I am at a crossroads and at the threshold of many milestones. First, this year is the 10 year anniversary of my marriage to my wife, mother of my two youngest daughters, and biggest supporter, Heather. How she puts up with my schedule and commitment to Candelaria Design is a blessing. Her reward is spending those beautiful summer days in Coeur d’Alene. This is also the 10 year anniversary of Candelaria Design. Over the last ten years we have grown from a staff of me and my two dogs in year one, up to 24 people during the boom times and now back to a much more reasonable size of 10 – which I love. We have accomplished a great deal in this time and have designed hundreds of homes for some unbelievable people. Finally, this is the one year anniversary of our Candelaria Design Blog! Looking back at the pictures and blogs from the past year it has been a busy time and the year ahead looks equally exciting and filled with many creative opportunities.



Reflecting on all that has transpired since I typed from this very deck while overlooking the lake a year ago it is amazing what has happened. New president, new economy, new projects, and some old projects have since come back. Girls getting bigger, new dog, my wife doing triatholons, trip to Italy, British Columbia, Canada, Santa Barbara, Denver, Portland….We have some of the best houses on our boards or under construction at this time – much better situation than a year ago. Everyone’s healthy and we are truly fortunate.



Probably the biggest trend I’ve seen over this year is a focus on time with the family, the simple things, good food, and enjoying our homes. I think that is what I love most about being up here in Idaho. The girls spend time planting flowers, growing tomatoes, playing on the beach, baking cookies, hiking through the forest – not watching TV or playing video games. They are out and enjoying nature and making memories. Our summer visitors start arriving tomorrow – and we are excited to share this place with our friends, employees and family this summer.

Next weekend is the IronMan Coeur d’Alene ( www.ironmancda.com . The race starts with a 2.4 miles swim in Lake Coeur d’Alene which is about 52-54º today (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv/?site_no=12417610 ) …..brrrrr. That is followed by a 112 mile bike ride then a full 26.2 mile marathon. I have three friends doing it next weekend – two guys and one gal all from Phoenix. I admire the commitment something like that takes. It will be real interesting to see how they prepare and recover from this event.





My idea for a quick recovery would be boat ride across the lake to Gozzer Ranch and Lake Club (www.gozzerranchclub.com). A Discovery Land Company property this is truly one of the most well done developments I have ever seen. A nice massage, a dip in the Red Barn pool (a little warmer than the lake by the way) and then maybe sipping a martini at the Jones Cabin while putting on the practice green and you have the makings of a great afternoon. If your real ambitious and the Ironman was not enough you can play a round of golf and maybe some paddleboarding down at Squaw Bay and now you are talking about my kind of IronMan.



Finally, you might cap the day off with another jaunt across the lake on a Stancraft wood boat (www.stancraftboats.com) . These works of art on water are handcrafted in nearby Post Falls, Idaho by our good friend Robb Bloem. These boats were first handcrafted in the 1930’s and now are on their third generation of family craftsmen putting their love and passion into every boat that comes out of their shop.





By this time you have to have worked up an appetite and what better place to enjoy a great dinner than Angelo’s in Coeur d’Alene (www.angelosristorante.net ). Angelo Martini Brunson opened this quaint ristorante in 2004 and we discovered it shortly thereafter. Angelo’s produce, beef, lamb and chicken all come from local farmers and the fish comes from the nearby lakes and ocean not farms. His commitment to quality and the friendly atmosphere is always a first visit when we come to town. You never know who you might sit next to from John Elway, Dennis Frantz, or Wayne Gretzky all CDA homeowners. Definitely try the Lobster Ravioli – this one is always one we share with the whole table.




Every weekend there is something happening up here, Ironman, Car – d’Alene, Farmer's Market every Saturday morning and Wednesday afternoon, the best 4th of July you could imagine, the CDA Wooden Boat Show, the Gozzer Barn Dance . . . well you get the picture. It is better than any summer you could ever imagine.

May - Mother's Day Blog

Happy Mother’s Day

Happy Mother’s Day to all you ladies out there who raise our children (and husbands) and make our lives sweet, wonderful and tolerable. I especially want to wish my wife, Heather, the happiest of Mother’s Days!!! Between my long hours, late and early meetings, endless phone calls and texts, blogging, travel, etc., etc. I want you to know I appreciate all you do for me and our girls! I love you.






This month’s feature is focused on two ladies – mom’s of course – who have started two fantastic ventures just a few feet from each other on the southwest corner of Camelback and 44th Street – Trouve’ and Chestnut Lane. These two businesses follow the old adage that if you do what you love, do it with passion, sophistication, and a commitment to quality, you have a winner. I love both of these establishments for that reason and the fact that every time I go to either one I walk away inspired.



Chestnut Lane, (www.chestnutlanecafe.com) a quaint café serving fresh baked goodies, coffee and teas, a short list of breakfast items, great salads, soups, and sandwiches, was recently started by my client and friend, Polly Levine. I was fortunate enough to design an absolutely gorgeous home for her and her family a few years ago with Nance Construction. In doing so, I got to work with and appreciate her and what exquisite taste and dedication to quality she has. These values have transcended right into her new café. Inspired through her visits to Joan’s on Third in LA and Dean & Deluca in SoHo, the café is simple and small but a feeling of quality, care, and simplicity emanates throughout. I love it. Between my stops there and all the lunches from Chestnut Lane I have at Vallone Interiors I gladly get my Chestnut Lane fix every week.




Polly Levine’s concept grew from her passion for food and cooking. She learned to cook when she was 12 years old and had her own subscriptions to Bon Appetite and Gourmet by the time she was 14. She is a self–taught cook and through travel and reading and just cooking she knew this was something she wanted to pursue. Her café is committed to bringing back the real and forgotten things in life – especially good food through the use of premium, locally grown, in-season ingredients and her belief that processed foods have no place in our lives and especially our bodies. Foods are prepared fresh each day and when they run out that is it. Nothing sits around for very long – that I can assure you.




The freshness is definitely appreciated and the day I was there I enjoyed the Tuscan Vegetable with Barley soup and the Lobster Cobb Salad. Both were fantastic, not over salted (in the case of the soup) and tasted like food should taste – every ingredient had something to offer because of the freshness. It was a joy to eat. The lobster cobb salad is definitely my favorite. Lobster and bacon – hmmm sounds like a good combo to me! Of course add some bib lettuce, avocado, egg, plum tomatoes and a little roasted corn and wow! Of course I had to top it off with a pecan bar which was fantastic – not so sweet that it was pure sugar, but perfectly balanced with great flavor. I encourage you to check it out and enjoy. Chestnut Lane is open Tuesday through Friday 7am-2pm and Saturday from 8am – 1pm. Take out and case goods are available – 602-535-5439.







Trouve’, (www.trouvehome.com), meaning “found” in French, is the dream shared by mother and daughter team of Joan Colangelo and Krissie Brubaker. Again, I was fortunate to work on three homes for the Colangelos over the last ten years and what a joy that has been. These ladies, as with Jerry, all have exquisite taste, class, and style and that can all be found in their beautiful shop and courtyard featuring antiques, architectural collectibles, vintage treasures, and gifts. A trip to their shop and courtyard is like a quick jaunt to Europe without the hassle of a 12 hour jet ride.



Trouve’ was the dream of this talented mother / daughter team which started when Krissie was in 5th grade whereby the two talked about opening an antique store someday. Joan started a small corporate gift division in 1989 and when Krissie’s youngest was off to kindergarten it was time to make the dream of Trouve’ happen. The store opened in 2002 and between this dream and the extensive traveling throughout Europe the two have collected everything from 17th Century tapestries, to 18th Century furnishings, 19th and 20th Century lighting to architectural items for the garden. Fireplaces, armoires, sofas, tables, fireplace fronts, the list goes on and it is all truly spectacular.




Most of their items come from their searches in France, Belgium, England, Spain and Italy but they have been venturing into the newly opened opportunities and sources in Eastern Europe. Buying trips to Europe occur two to three times a year and they are always searching stateside for hidden treasures. Although, many think of using antiques or collectibles for a traditional setting or home, Krissie points out that a number of their pieces have ended up as accent pieces in a number of contemporary homes. “These serve to soften and personalize these types of spaces,” Krissie points out and I agree.



Although the store has this sophisticated feel as a customer you will find items and prices across a wide range for everything from their unique antiques and furnishings, to gifts in the $20 range such as books and small gift items. In essence, everyone can enjoy something from their collection. Nothing does this better than their books available for sale. Sure they can be found on Amazon but the experience of buying a book at Trouve’ is what is so unique. Again, it is like traveling to Europe for a few moments, enjoy the items around you and while you are at it I can always find a new book which allows me to take the experience with me. “I want our local neighbors to realize they can find furnishings for their Arcadia homes here in our store,” Krissie point out. I have many clients who have done just that and absolutely love the personality, charm, and usually a story Trouve’ pieces bring to their homes.




Krissie and Joan’s commitment to quality, beauty, and family all come across in this store. Despite the sophistication of the items you will find in their store and garden you are always greeted with the warmth and humble friendliness Joan, Krissie and the whole Colangelo family always personify. I encourage a trip there for Father’s day as they have some great items for Dad too. Store hours are from Tuesday – Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturdays 10am to 2pm. They also have a beautiful store in Carmel, California and it is also worth a stop when in that part of the world.



So, enjoy a trip to 44th and Camelback. Stop in at Trouve’ and then enjoy a delicious soup and sandwich or salad at Chestnut Lane and walk away feeling like you just jumped the pond and spent an afternoon in Paris!

April Blog - Santa Barabara

I always forget how beautiful Santa Barbara, California is until I return and experience it once again. It’s not only the architecture – which I love and appreciate more and more with each visit – but it is the lifestyle! Great food, fabulous wine, moderate climate, sea air, and landscaping. What landscaping! That which barely survives in Phoenix absolutely flourishes in Santa Barbara. Some of the plants are right out of Jurassic Park or Dr. Suess.

I just returned from a two day jaunt with a client last week whereby we did a little research into the “Santa Barbara Style” for a house we are designing for them in Paradise Valley. What a great trip. We did a lot of walking, ate some wonderful meals, and I took nearly one thousand photos in the two days there.

Day one started at a newly constructed private residence in the hills of Montecito. The home sits on approximately 25 acres and overlooks the oak covered hills slowly rolling their way to the Pacific shoreline. Spectacular! The “H” shaped plan allows light to flow freely through all of the spaces – every room has a view either to a courtyard or the ocean. Wonderful finishes, windows, and of course landscaping.






















We then made our way to Steve Handleman’s wonderful shop and studio in Santa Barbara www.stevenhandelmanstudios.com/. Steve’s studio specializes in custom, hand forged iron chandeliers, sconces, lamps, fireplace screens, etc. He has been designing and making handmade iron products for 35 years and his work has adorned many of our homes during that same time period. I love his passion and commitment to his craft and the part it plays in the overall composition and completion of a home.



Next, it was time for lunch downtown. We enjoyed a great little spot right on State Street – Pascucci www.pascuccirestaurant.com. We had a quick bite and we were off touring the downtown area and all the great buildings, courtyards, and endless details. Right in the middle of town is the historic Casa de la Guerra www.sbthp.org/casa.htm, This restored 19th-century adobe building captures the authentic feel of Santa Barbara of old. We then proceeded to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse www.santabarbaracourthouse.org/sbch/ which has to be one of my favorite spots to see in Santa Barbara. Constructed in 1929, this has been the site and home of the local government. The detailing, use of cast-in-place concrete, murals, painted ceilings, tile and stone work, and landscaping is very inspiring.



The day was quickly winding down so we stopped in the Cheese Shop in downtown Santa Barbara www.thecheeseshopinc.com and picked up some wine, cheese, salami and of course a crispy baguette. Finally it was off to the Santa Barbara Mission. www.santabarbara.com/points_of_interest/mission/. It is set in a beautiful setting up on a hill overlooking the City of Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Just to the south of the foreground lawn is a great little street with a whole row of beautiful Santa Barbara style homes. After walking around the neighborhood for over an hour and snapping away we found a bench in the foreground park and popped the cork and enjoyed our goodies and relived all the sights of the day.


After regrouping and freshening up at our hotel we made our way to our final stop of the day at the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, www.fourseasons.com, for a quick evening stroll and dinner at Bella Vista under the stars and a sweeping view of the coast. My wife and I have stayed here for our anniversary several years ago – it is definitely a special place for me.


The next morning started with a private tour of one of the most published, George Washington Smith homes, Casa del Herrero - www.casadelherrero.com, “house of the blacksmith”. Built in the early 1930’s this is definitely a must see when coming to Santa Barbara. I could have spent hours here and I think we did spend about two with our tour. The home and gardens are stunning and the docent led tour is very factual and educational. We were blessed with a glorious morning and being the only people on the tour really made the experience memorable.



We made one more stop at the Biltmore Hotel to take in some details of the hotel by day, grabbed lunch again at the Bella Vista, and then it was off to the airport and back to Phoenix. In two days I took nearly 1000 photos and enjoyed the one-on-one time with our client in such a wonderful setting. Should you ever wish to embark on a Santa Barbara or Spanish Colonial Home this is definitely the place to start the journey.

March - Mister C's Paella

This blog I am not talking about the economy, business, architecture, or traveling - although you may have noticed I do love writing about those topics. This time it's about one of my other passions - food. This Friday evening (March 13th) I am cooking one of my favorite dishes - paella - at Westar in Scottsdale.

Paella (pie-ay-a) is a great dish and easy to make. The dish originated in Valencia, Spain near Lake Albufera, a coastal lagoon in eastern Spain. There are three common paellas - Valencian paella, seafood paella, and mixed paella - but the derivatives from there are endless. Valencian paella consists of white rice, green vegetables, meat, snails, beans and seasoning. Seafood paella replaces the meat and snails with seafood and omits beans and green vegetables. Mixed paella is a free-style combination of meat, seafood, and vegetables. My version definitely is in the free-style category and was developed from my experiences in Spain with my friend Joaquin Abati and his late mother (see the photos - yeah I did have hair on my head when I was younger), and other recipes I have researched and read over the years.

The key to this dish is a great paella pan. Pick one up at William Sonoma - they are an essential piece of equipment. I start with three key components - dark meat chicken, halibut, and chorizo - Spanish if you can find it. If you can't find chorizo I use andouille sausages from AJ's or Safeways and most times I use all of them. I make a little mixture of oregano, paprika, salt and pepper in a bowl and dredge the chicken and fish in this mixture and let them sit for about 30 minutes.

Next I heat up some olive oil in the paella pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken, chorizo and fish in the pan, skin side down and brown on all sides, turning with tongs when browned. The chorizo will turn the oil a nice red color which will add to the rice color eventually. Once everything is browned, remove it to a platter lined with paper towels.

Lower the heat on the pan to medium. Now you want to work on the rice. I like to use arborio rice which is an Italian short-grain rice from the Po Valley - generally used for risotto - but great for paella. I start by using the oil and drippings in the pan by adding garlic, onion, tomatoes, salt and pepper and cook everything down until the mixture caramelizes and the flavors all blend together. You then fold in the rice, stirring to coat the grains. Let the rice heat up and almost fry in the mixture. Add the signature ingredient, saffron strands, by stirring these in. Now pour in chicken broth and simmer for 10 minutes, gently moving the pan around so the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid just like in a risotto (the only difference is you do not want to cover the dish or stir constantly).

After the 10 minutes of cooking the rice down, add the shrimp, lobster, clams, mussles and then add the chicken, fish and chorizo back in the mix. I like to cut the fish and chorizo into small pieces or slices so it gets nicely distributed throughout the paella. Tuck in all of the pieces and add more broth if you feel the paella is getting too dry - but you don't want it soupy either. I then add a little sprinkle throughout of Spanish sherry for flavor. Let the whole thing simmer without stirring until the rice is al dente, about 15 - 20 minutes. I then scatter frozen peas over the top and continue to cook for 5 more minutes, until the paella looks fluffy and moist, shrip are nice and pink, and the clams and mussels begin to open. The bottom of the pan might form a toasted rice bottom called a socarrat - it is delicious. Remove the paella from the heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges and enjoy!

If interested in attending the event, call my office and ask for Dianne and she can check on availability. 602-604-2001.

Candelaria Paella

3 Chicken legs

3 Chicken thighs

1 teaspoon dried oregano

2 tablespoons paprika

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil

1 fist sized clump of Spanish chorizo sausage

2 sausage links - I like andouille sausages.

4 garlic cloves, diced

1 Spanish onion, diced

1 (16 ounce) can dice tomatoes

1 cup of Arbiorto Rice

1 teaspoon of saffron threads

2-3 small cans of chicken broth

1/4 cup Spanish Sherry

6 jumbo shrimp peeled with tails on and deveined.

1 Halibut filet or you can use a cod filet

1 lobster tails

6-8 clams, scrubbed

6-8 mussels, scrubbed and debearded.

1/2 cup sweet peas, frozen and thawed

Fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves for garnish

Lemon wedges for serving

February Blog - Stimulus Time

WOW – this year is flying by. We are already into mid February and a lot is happening. President Obama is in and Bush is out and the recession carries on. Stimulus package number two has been passed on Friday the 13th, GM and Chrysler are hitting their deadlines, loans are coming due or being called in by banks faster than TARP money can be passed out. I have had clients (yes plural) dreams shattered by the infamous Bernie Madoff who made off with their money and the funding for their projects. We are blessed with some wonderful new projects in the last six months but we are definitely seeing another wave of fear and reluctance out there. Everyone is so uncertain and who can blame them?

Those clients that are moving forward are doing so whereby they can get the very best in talent, expertise, and pricing, I’ve seen in the thirty years I have been doing this. Everyone is motivated, every staff is down to their best people, attention to service is first and foremost, and we are all working twice as hard for half as much. But that is ok – being an architect I guess I just am wired to love to work – I love what we do. Some of our best work ever is either just being completed or on the boards as I write this. I look back at the work done in the 30’s and 40’s and really that too was some of the best work over the last 80 years – so there is something to all of this.

We were fortunate to have one of our homes featured in the February issue of Phoenix Home and Garden Magazine. It's a beautiful home in Silverleaf constructed by Schultz Development decorated by Treken Interiors. It’s still on news stands so please pick up a copy. We also have a kitchen featured next month in a national magazine and I understand one of our homes will be on the Phoenix Home and Garden Magazine home tour in November. So we are very excited about that. I am also acting as guest chef for a paella dinner in conjunction with Kitchen Southwest and SubZero next month. I find people need to get out, talk, share stories of what is going on and opportunities spring forth. It’s amazing how far some good food and vino go to get people excited about an idea or a project and I am always surprised by the connections and six degrees of separation events like this create.

I am contemplating our seventh Italy Trip for this fall. Ten full days starting in Florence for two days, living in a country house in Umbria for six days, and winding down in Roma for two days. I have several clients, designers, vendors, and contacts interested in the trip this year. I have gotten so many great leads I would have never imagined from this yearly adventure. Not to mention the inspiration just being there each year does for me as an architect and someone who appreciates and preaches good living. I hope we can pull this together and get a good group to go. If interested, please contact our office. I try and limit the trip to four or five couples as the Trattorias can be quite quaint and when you walk in with 10 or 12 hungry Americans it can be a bit overwhelming. It’s a great trip and I will dedicate an entire blog just to this trip very soon.

We have a client with whom we are designing a classic Santa Barbara home for so we are planning a research trip there next month. I hope to write a nice summary of that trip in the weeks ahead. Two other clients want to take me to the Far East this year to research new sources for ironwork, stonework, windows, you name it. We have a couple companies that want us to design our own line of pre-cast elements, ironwork, doors, etc., etc. Like I say, good thing its slow out there!

I guess, its easy to get down on the economy and all the doom and gloom out there – trust me I fall victim to it – ask my wife (she has permanently banned me from CNBC in the morning). But we need to keep plugging on and what happens will happen – we’re all feeling it. The Stimulus Package is passed and the extra $13 a week we will all see in our paycheck should at least allow me to add my Spanish latte back into my morning routine!

I’ll keep drawing, creating, and trying to bring happiness to our clients through our beautiful homes. I love being an architect, a friend, a husband and a father.

Top Trends for 2009

Top Trends affecting Design and Lifestyle for 2009

We start 2009 with a whole new outlook – good riddance to 2008. In reviewing several magazine articles, websites, and blogs, below is the prevalent list of items that seem to be on everyone’s radar. It seems a return to simpler times and ways is definitely the direction as people move towards familiarity, comfort, and retro. Mixed in with what’s green and techno.

Return to the Kitchen:

This has been noted on several trend watches and prediction articles for 2009. I have to agree with this one and we are definitely seeing this in our practice. I think with the current state of the economy people are staying home more and where do you spend more time than in the kitchen. Cooking, game playing be it on a computer or handheld, and simply getting back to family conversations, we will all return to the safety and closeness of the Kitchen.

Rise of the Cottage Industry

We are definitely seeing this and the internet is helping this along. We are seeing the Craft Room, and Hobby Room taking over the wish list on people’s homes and we have seen businesses grow from these activities. Book writing, gardening, textiles, sewing, jewelry making, photography and film making, and of course cooking,….Look for this trend in what is being called credit-crunch couture. – check out Hermes Do-it-Yourself status bags.

Urban Gardening

From indoor herb and spice gardens to full on outdoor gardens we are seeing this trend really taking off. People want fresh produce and are willing to do more to get it. We have clients taking their entire property and planting olive groves, pecan and date groves, orange and citrus groves, raised vegetable gardens, and herb gardens and of course a compost pile to make use of the household wastes in an eco-friendly way.

Virtual Tourism

We are seeing this trend starting to pop up. With travel becoming so expensive and again with the downturn in the economy we see several services starting that basically give you a virtual tour of any city in the world. People are then able to hook this up to their home theater system and sit with a glass of wine in their own home and enjoy a trip to Prague without fighting the crowds, needing a passport or having to go through security and a 22 hour plane trip. We see this even entering the Dining Room whereby you can have friends over for dinner on the rooftop in Rome or overlooking the French Riviera. Watch this trend both in terms of how it changes design and the way people entertain.

Pet Spaces

We are seeing more and more space dedicated to one’s pets. From pet rooms with access to a contained courtyard with various features such as a small pet pool or exercise equipment dedicated to one’s pets., it is amazing what people will do for their little four legged friends. With the demographics getting older and more and more empty-nesters in the years ahead we see this trend growing.

Home Stages & Virtual Activity Areas

With the Virtual Guitars, Rock Bands, and virtual Bowling or Golf cropping up on Wii and Xboxes we see a stage space working with the Theater space. Whole families and friends come over and perform rock concerts and with a Club room or Bar space next to this you have yourself a real party.

Microtechture

With the downsizing hitting all aspects of the economy we see both the bigger houses getting smaller and the smaller houses getting even smaller. 3500 square feet will be the new 7500 square feet on the large homes and we see smaller homes being remodeled rather than enlarged. Smaller will allow for nicer furnishings and interior features and accessories and so more attention will be given to the details instead of just having a lot of vanilla space.

Comfort & Sustainable Foods

See more home baking and scratch cooking as nostalgia, retro, and a return to the safety of the home takes hold. Soups, salads, stews with simple ingredients will become very popular as they will save money and make people feel good. Watch the continued rise of the farmer’s markets where local farmers can sell their produce directly to the consumer and reduce the carbon footprint and consumers can be assured the food is safe and organic. We see the trend of larger pantries and the walk-in refrigerator is becoming more popular and being incorporated into nearly 25% of the houses we design.

Social Networking

Websites, Facebook, blogging, YouTube video presentations, Skype – all are affecting the way we work and live. Skypeing with your family whereby you can talk and see them live sure can save on a lot of airfares. Same for meetings – no more flights necessary for a business meeting. All of these technologies are changing the way we stay in touch with friends, clients, vendors, and family.

Green Movement is Huge!!!!

All of these trends noted above seem to all have a Green aspect to them. Generally, I see people using their homes more and staying home more and spending more time with friends and family. Living and living in harmony with nature will become a real focus again.

Christmas Miracle

I know a lot of you were following our trials and tribulations in our efforts to get to Coeur d'Alene for the Holidays. Well we finally made it and on Christmas Eve to boot.

It all started on Saturday morning. I took my wife to the airport that morning as she was scheduled to go out on Friday but changed her flight to Saturday due to the first of three blizzards to hit the Northwest. Her flight got out and she landed safely in Spokane that afternoon. She was able to have the shuttle take her to the house in the midst of a major storm. My flight was later that morning but I had the flight time entered into my IPhone incorrectly and when I got to the airport with my two little girls the plane had already departed!!! No more flights on Saturday. I called my wife and needless to say she was not too happy.

I immediately got on the phone with American Express and they found me a flight the next morning at 11am from Phoenix to Spokane via Portland. Well we got to the airport at 9am - wasn't going to miss this flight!!!! We get to the checkin counter and immediately we are told the flight has been delayed from 11am to 4pm due to the bad weather. Well I was following the weather in Portland and it sounded like we would be able to fly in but then be trapped there until Sunday. Fortunately, the flight was cancelled by 3pm from Phoenix so more tickets were now necessary.

I called the wife, to tell her our new flight had been cancelled and to start looking for flights for Monday. She called me back and had booked us flights for Monday morning to Spokane via Salt Lake City. By this time my oldest daughter had flown in Sunday morning and my mother-in-law flew in at midnight but neither could get out of the Spokane Airport due to the road conditions and the newest storm so I was able to get them checked into a hotel by the airport.

Well Monday morning came and I checked all of the flights and we were a go. Got the girls up, bathed, dressed and off to the airport. We left the house at 6:30am with all of our luggage and our spirits up as it appeared we had green lights all the way to Spokane. We got to the airport and everything was on-time!!!! We boarded our flight to Salt Lake and we were airborne. Landed in Salt Lake and our connecting flight was on time and would be departing in 90 minutes. We were very excited as it looked like we were finally going to make it. My wife, was on the way to the Spokane Airport to pick up her mother and my oldest daughter and then pick us up. Well we grabbed a little lunch and then we heard the news....our flight to Spokane had been cancelled. Well I called my wife and told her the news and called my office whom proceeded to try and find us other flights to Spokane or back to Phoenix. Well the soonest flight to Spokane from Salt Lake was on Sunday again but we could get a flight back to Phoenix in a couple hours so we booked it and headed home. We made it, our bags did not.....



Well while in the air my wife found us three tickets on a direct flight from Phoenix to Spokane. So Tuesday we hung out and made calls, ran errands we were unable to finish before we left, and I took care of my two little monkeys. That evening one of my project managers, Braden Santarcangelo, met with one of my clients and told him of our situation. I received a call Tuesday night from this client, who will remain nameless, offering to take us to Spokane on his Citation 3 on Christmas Eve. I told him we had flights booked for Christmas day but that we really appreciated the offer. Well he insisted and told us to be at the Scottsdale Airport 2 pm sharp - wheels up!

Normally, one would have been very excited but I knew there was another blizzard scheduled to hit on Christmas Eve and I told him this. He didn't seem to be too concerned seeing he was from Ohio and had plenty of snow flying experience. So I got the girls to bed and we prepared for flying the next day.

Christmas Eve arrived and we started our preparations for the flight. I called Southwest in search of our bags but they were no where to be found in the system. My client and friend, Patrick Murphy, offered to take us to the airport and we made our way there. We loaded up and by 2 pm we were up in the air on our way to Spokane. Flying private is such a treat, no ticket counters, no security, no one else on the plane - talk about getting spoiled. My girls loved it. Bella worked on the laptop and Sophia fell asleep.

Two and half hours and we were on our approach to Spokane when the radio tower broke the silence and announced that the Spokane runways were closed down due to blizzard number three. My client, who was flying the plane with a copilot buddy, turned to me and said, "Wow, you really are jinxed on this trip!" The tower came back on and said if you can circle for 45 minutes we should be able to get a runway cleared for you to land. So that is what we did - circle, circle, circle. I tried calling my wife from the plane phone but couldn't reach her. I left her a message that the runway was closed but they were going to try and get us in. Her and her mom and dad were waiting at the executive terminal in Spokane praying we would make it. Finally the tower said, "we have a small window open. Make your approach but make it fast."

Down we headed, no visibility, bouncing around. The girls were calm and I was silently praying we would make it. The two pilots seemed calm and focused and down we came through the whiteness. Finally you could see the ground and then the lights of the runway just barely through the blowing snow. Down they came and then touchdown! It was really an amazing experience and one I will never forget.

The runways were buried and it was actually more of an adventure getting from the runway to the terminal. We never made it and had to stop short and basically carried everyone out and to the terminal in the blowing snow. Trust me Mom and Grandma were happy to see the three of us. Well at least they were happy to see the two little girls!




Thank you again to my client and friend who got us up there. It was an amazing experience and one I will never forget. it just shows how generous and kind some people really are. The two pilots flew home to Scottsdale that night and called to let us know they made it safely home. It was truly a Christmas Miracle.

The video of our landing is located on the side of this blog. Enjoy.

Closing out 2008

Well this year is finally winding down. What a crazy year......

As I look back at my posts from the summer to where we are now it has only been six months but it feels like we have gone through six years. From oil at $150 a barrel and $4.25 a gallon gas to $35 a barrel and $1.45 a gallon gas.....funny how the math doesn't quite equal out??? A new President, a new direction, not one but two or is it three bailouts...still waiting for mine. Actually, I think I will be responsible for paying for the bailout come April 15th!!! These are definitely crazy times, yet this year was a better year for Candelaria Design than 2007 so who really knows. One thing I do know is really no one does know. From the stucco subcontractor, the Thomas delivery guy to my most wealthiest and astute clients - everyone has been hit by this market and no one has a clue as to where thing are going - NO ONE.

I have learned through the last year what is important though and as I said earlier in the year it is just like sports - the fundamental values will always carry you through. Hard work, working smart, taking care of your friends and neighbors, and appreciating the simple things in life - the real things. I am glad to see people looking at the homes as places to live, and enjoy their families rather than investments and packaged flips. I definitely see my clients and friends thinking of ways to conserve and save and be conscientious of what and how they are spending their money. I see my employees really valuing their jobs and clients and putting forth the extra effort. I see our consultants, vendors, and referrals appreciating our business and giving us better service. So although there is a lot of pain we are all feeling, we are seeing a lot of great things coming out of this and the groundwork being laid for the next cycle.

Hopefully, we all remember these times when the good times return and we keep our values in the right place. I firmly believe that helping others, going the extra mile now, and playing for the marathon and not the sprint will pay big dividends in the future. We have some amazing projects underway and I am very thankful for the wonderful clients, contractors, consultants, subcontractors and most importantly my employees and my family who all make what we do possible. A 40 hour week is unheard of even in this economy. I think we are all working 50-60 hour weeks and darn glad to be doing so! I love designing homes and working hard with a team that is so excited about what we all do and really putting their heart and soul into it. It is rewarding and I know we are creating something that is real and of value.

So I leave 2008 with a lot of memories and lessons learned. I look forward to 2009 knowing where my focus is and spending quality time with my family, friends, associates, and clients. Thanks to all of you for making my life very interesting and fulfilling.

Scottsdale Charro Ride 2008

Howdy!

Well I completed another Scottsdale Charro Ride. Number three for me and each one gets better. This year it was in the Superstition Mountains. 130+ guys of all ages riding for four days and three nights through the wilderness. Everything from riders with 44 rides under their belt to rookies just going for their first time. It is a great trip and a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this amazing state we live in and reflect of all the good things in life.

The Scottsdale Charros are a group of men committed to education and supporting various causes having to do with teaching, scholarships, etc. I’ve included their website so you can read more. They sponsor the Spring Training games each season for the San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Municipal Stadium. The members consist of everything from dentists, stockbrokers, bankers, contractors, florists, and even cowboys! I am a guest of long time member John Schultz of Schultz Development who has built a number of our homes over the years. I believe this was John’s 12th ride and he was the Trail Boss this year meaning he had to scout the trails for the ride and put it all together. John in my opinion is a real cowboy – the guy can ride and he is big enough that you don’t want to mess with him. It is a real honor to go the last three years.

Over the course of the last three years I have been around these guys when times were great and now when times are lean. And although we all are going through our own unique tribulations the spirit was the same – all a bunch of guys trying to scrape out an existence and do what is right for themselves, their families, and the community. Yes the gambling was down a bit from the good years but the laughter, jokes, and smiles were the same. No one is feeling sorry for themselves and everyone was positive and exploring new ways to market and capture the opportunities out there. That is what makes America great in my opinion.

It is amazing the thoughts that go through your mind when the cell phones and emails are turned off and you are just riding a horse through the quaking aspens or under the shadow of a 500 year old saguaro. You realize what is really important to you – your family, your wife, your employees, your friends, your clients, your home…..the simple things. I don’t think this slow down is all bad – trust me being on this four day ride really showed me that everyone is now seeing what is really important to them and how good we really have it.

See y'all later!

Fall is Here

Fall is fully upon us now. Halloween is a few days away and the elections are right after that followed by Thanksgiving and then well you all know where this is leading. 2008 is rapidly coming to its final chapters. As I wrote just a few months ago during the Olympics this is the year of great changes…..well I was right and we still have two months to go.

When I reflected on the year last time a barrel of oil was $148 a barrel now its back down to $64 a barrel. Funny how it hasn’t dropped that quickly at the pump. It sure seemed to keep up when the price of oil was going up. Since the Olympics the world has apparently gone into a slow down. Those Olympics must of worn us all down. They were amazing after all! Credit remains frozen, unemployment has risen, everyone traded in their leased SUVs or quit driving to work because they don’t have jobs and now the price of oil is down to $64 a barrel again. This all in a matter of three months. Ok so where does that leave us three months from now????

Obviously we will have a new President elected in three months. I can definitely predict that… or will hanging chads keep that from happening again?….I sure hope not. Whoever wins let’s just get this over with and move forward. Whatever party you are for, the winner will take credit for whatever happens positively and will blame Bush for anything that happens negatively. So we can’t lose either way….at least that is what I am trying to convince myself.

Oil, commodities, interest rates, stock prices….. who knows? My most savvy clients who invest millions (probably billions) don’t know which way is up right now. I’ve never seen markets this confusing. However, I am seeing a number of clients buying real estate or starting construction now – in the midst of the turmoil – and you know theses are the same people I saw step forward after the S&L and dot.com bubbles of the 80’s and 90’s and ended up being on the right side of the cycle. Land prices have fallen and there are great opportunities again. Commodity prices and labor are falling and so construction costs are finally falling – it’s like oil it just takes time to see it at the pump. The stock market – never could figure that one out. I know my 401k is now a 40k or something to that effect, but I keep putting more in every two weeks so they tell me I am dollar cost averaging. My average just seems to be lower with every quarterly statement! Retirement is no where in my immediate future anyway so I guess I am ok.

2008 has been a year we will all remember – or will do our best to just forget. I always like even numbered years better so I am not sure what that means for me. 2008 has been a better year for Candelaria Design than 2007 and we have definitely been seeing things pick up since June. As architects, we seem to be the first to see things slow down and the first to see them come back so I hope that holds true moving into 2009 – uhg an odd year.

Italy 2008 - Day 5 Panto Island Party / Venice

Our final day in Italy was fantastic. Today we took a private boat to Panto Island - no tattoo and Ricardo Montalban weren't waiting for us - but a wonderful feast, and the delightful Panto family was.

The Panto Island is located about 4 miles east of Venice and is a private island owned by the Panto Family. The island is now a family compound and is absolutely beautiful. Giorgio Panto who started the company died in a tragic helicopter crash just off this island in November 2006. I was fortunate to meet him on several occasions including just two weeks before the accident when he and Simon stopped by my office for a visit and a cappuccino. He was an interesting gentleman having started several media stations in Italy, started a political party, and of course owned and operated the Panto window and door company. He is survived by his two sons and daughter. One of his sons and daughter hosted our party - they were very gracious and most delightful.

Our afternoon on Panto island started of course with a Bellini served on the patio. Meanwhile the food was all being prepared with the main course being freshly caught derado from the nearby Adriatic Sea cooked in encrusted sea salt over a hot charcoal grille. Of course for starting courses we enjoyed a lobster/potato salad, polenta, deep fried langostinos, and just a few thick grilled t-bones. The fish was amazing - moist with a salty, crisp crust. Fantastic!

Dinner was capped off with a wonderful dedication by the youngest son to his father - there was not a dry eye in the house. Their passion, and love for their father and all he had built and created were celebrated. The business, besides a great product, was about the relationships that had been created through the years. We were all part of the Panto family and they made you feel this way. With the dedication complete the son hopped on the private helicopter and flew away just as his father had done so tragically just two years ago. What drama - totally Italian! But what a day - very relaxing and most memorable.

After a few glasses of wine, a challenging game of foosball, and a group photo we were off to Venice for the remainder of the day. It was a great trip and I cannot thank Simon and my friends at Panto enough for this wonderful trip.

Italy 2008 - Day 4 Palladian Villas - Asolo, Italy

Italy Day 4 was one of my favorites - the tour of two beautiful Andrea Palladio villas north of Venice, the famous Carlo Scarpa Brion Cemetery in San Vito d'Altivol, and finally a relaxing afternoon in Asolo, Italy.

We started at the Villa Emo. Villa Emo, located in the village of Fanzolo di Vedelago, was built in the period 1559-65. The central residential space features four columns (two of them engaged) in the manner of a Greek temple front. barchesse (farm buildings) The building extends symmetrically from the left and right of the central structure, with the ends of the barchesse surmounted by dovecotes. The result is the famous 5-part profile familiar in later Palladio-inspired architecture, including the U. S. Capitol building (with the Houses of Congress replacing the dovecotes!). This is a beautiful villa and like all of the Palladian villas I have seen they are picturesquely set and provide order and symmetry to the landscape. The frescos by Giovanni Battista Zelotti inside the central space are spectacular and are in excellent condition. We had a private guide, which in Italy is the best way to see any site or town, and she gave us a very detailed explanation of all the rooms, gardens and frescos. It is simply fascinating the time and attention to detail these architects and artisans put into these projects.

The next Palladian villa we toured was the Villa Barbaro located in the village of Maser adjacent to the famous hilltown of Asolo. The villa was built for Daniele Barbaro, Patriarch of Aquileia, and his brother Marc'antonio Barbaro, an ambassador of the Venetian Republic. Construction began in (prob.) 1549 and was substantially completed by 1558. The central residential space is erected on the remains of a medieval castle or manor house. Its facade features four engaged Ionic columns adapted from the Temple of Fortuna Virilis in Rome. As at nearby Villa Emo, barchesse (farm buildings) extend symmetrically from the left and right of the central structure. The ends of the barchesse are surmounted by dovecotes, each with a large sundial on the facade. The interior of the central residence is highlighted by magnificent frescos executed between 1560 and 1562 principally by Paolo Veronese. Set in the hillside at the rear of the central residence is a spectacular spring-fed statuary grotto known as a nymphaeum.

The villa first descended through female lines in the same family until 1838. In 1934 the villa was acquired by Giuseppe Volpi di Misurata, who began the restoration that has returned to villa to its present condition. Today his granddaughter resides at the villa with her family. As in most things in Italy the family lineage and passion for maintaining their history, architecture and culture are first and foremost. These homes are part of their soul not investments. They become great investments later only because of the love and passion for these works of art.

We then took a break and headed to our best lunch on the trip in the hill town of Asolo, Italy - Ristorante de Gerry. This is a wonderful place up on a second floor with great views of the surrounding countryside from both the restaurant and the adjoining roof garden. We started with some fried mozzarella balls and sausage balls followed by a roast chicken salad and stuffed and fried zucchini flowers then roast pork and rosemary roasted potatoes all capped off with a fabulous apple tart with a zabaglione sauce. Of course a few glasses of prosecco and some red wine with the roast pork all capped by a cappuccino make for a wonderful lunch.

We then ventured to the famous Carlos Scarpa Brion - Vega Cemetery in San Vito d'Altivole, Italy. With the Brion Cemetery, Scarpa made his impact with an unreserved commitment ot the modern movement and a new sureness of language. He re-created here the splendor of nineteenth-century Middle Europe, where beauty had the power to redeem man from his limitations. He avoided the narrow dictates of rationalism, choosing rather to stress inner depth, dreams, and nostalgia. Carlos Scarpa said about the Tomb, "The place for the dead is a garden....I wanted to show some ways in which you could approach death in a social and civic way; and further what meaning there was in death, in the ephemerality of life—other than these shoe-boxes." Even if you do not appreciate or enjoy contemporary architecture this is a very unique and definitely spiritual space.

We next boarded the bus back for the village of Asolo in the foothills of the Alps. Known as the "Town of a Hundred Horizons" because of its panoramic views, this nub of a medieval hill town (though it was founded during the twilight of Imperial Rome) has become the secret hideaway for true Veneto aficionados. After walking through town we ventured to one of Heather and my favorite spots the famous Hotel Villa Cipriani in Asolo. Immersed in a private garden of pomegranate trees and fragrant seasonal flowers, Hotel Villa Cipriani is surrounded by the views that inspired Titian and Giorgione. Once the home of the famous poet Robert Browning, the hotel offers guests 31 rooms splendidly fitted with lovely antiques and exposed ornated beams. Recent guest have included Kim Bassinger and Rolling Stones rocker, Keith Richards. There is nothing nicer than sitting on the terrace with a peach bellini and chatting with friends while watching the sun set over the hills. It is magical and most memorable.

The day ended at a local pizzeria - a crusty coal fired capricciosa pizza. It's usually the richest pizza offered, and every pizzaiolo makes it differently. This is based on the Pizzaria Giancarlo, outside Florence's Porta San Frediano and includes ham, artichoke hearts, mozzarella, and of course tomato sauce - then you add whatever else you have taking up space in the refrigerator. Add a cold Birra Moretti and you just had a great day in Italy.

Italy 2008 - Day 3 Panto Factory/Treviso

Italy 2008 - Day 3 was the whole point of this trip - the tour of the Panto Window factory. I was on this factory tour four years ago and I have to say the second tour was as informative and inspiring as the first. What pride - what craftsmanship - what passion about a product. Panto has it all - not to mention a factory the floor you could eat pasta off of!!!

From the glass to the teak wood frames to the custom finishing it all is a painstaking process that is constantly being refined and perfected. From spraying the varnish on in an argon gas chamber because the argon molecules are smaller than oxygen molecules and it allows the varnish to penetrate to wood easier and deeper. Their windows come with a 30 year warranty, and trust me - you can see why.

We were given the tour by Walter who runs the operations - and later in the week is our fish griller. The tour lasted about two and a half hours and where we concluded at the factory showroom. Their multislide units and their tilt and turn windows and doors are simply works of art - but extremely functional. We have two houses now in Arizona with Panto windows and they have held up beautifully in the harsh, Arizona climate.

Of course after a strenuous factory tour you need a hearty lunch. We ventured to a wonderful country restaurant where we had the best gnocchi on the trip. It was chewy and with a little pepperoncini it hit the spot. Add a cold beer and a couple additional courses which will remain nameless and you have a great lunch.

Then it was off to a quick tour of Treviso - the town just north of Venice. This town is very charming as it too has a series of streams and canals through the town only they are running with fresh mountain water and loaded with some of the largest trouts I've ever seen. My associate, Craig Stoffel, who loves to fly fish would be in heaven. The town was badly destroyed in WWII but has been nicely restored. It is amazing to think that just 55 years ago this place was like Iraq.

We closed the night off with more gnocchi with a duck ragu, and roast beef that was fantastic, and the best tiramisu of the trip - it was amazing. Another 2-1/2 hour meal and it was back to the hotel to get rested for the next day.

Italy 2008 - Day 2 Venice

Italy Day 2 started with a 6am jog through the vineyard. What a great way to start the first full day in Italy - plus not a bad way to burn off the two plates of risotto from the night before! I have to thank Heather for getting me going as she is training for her second tri-athalon sprint. I am just trying to get some exercise into my life!

After the jog we stopped for a quick bite and some coffee and then get ready for the 30 minute bus ride to the Venice airport where we would meet tour boat to Venice and Murano.

The boat ride is beautiful as you see Venice off in the distance through the thick, moist air. It is such an unimaginable place and just doesn't seem real. This is my third time to Venice and it always awes me. You see the towers all tilting and listing from vertical and you realize this place is simply a mirage in time yet it is virtually the same it was centuries ago. What is so nice about Venice is the lack of cars, trucks, vespas and police sirens. It is quiet other than the constant sound of human chatter, a mixture of many languages, and occasional clanking dishes from the back kitchens of numerous restaurants. There is never a lack of detail and architecture. It is truly architecture Disneyland.

Before we made it to Venice though we had a quick side trip and tour of a the Nason Moretti glass factory in Murano, Italy. Murano is a small island just east of Venice and is famous for their fabulous glassworks. This was my second trip to the island and is also an amazing journey each time. We were greeted by Piero Nason - 4th generation master glass blower and now runs this family business started at the turn of the last century. The business is a family business and many cousins, uncles and aunts all have their craft and role in the company as so many companies in Italy are operated. With this comes so much pride and passion. Everyone has a stake in the manufacturing, sale and success or failure of the product. Their work is stunning and always changing. Formulas for colors and mixtures are kept in a simple three ring binder in a little back room with shelves of different metal compounds that all make unique colors. It is amazing that simple sand, soda, and minerals can make something so translucent and colorful, not to mention beautiful yet extremely functional. From stemware to Murano chandeliers it is astounding the different items these craftsmen can do with a blob of molten glass - and how quickly. It is definitely worth seeing when you come to this part of Italy. Once you see the skill and style that goes into making one champagne flute you can appreciate the price for these wonderful works of art.

We then re-boarded the boat and cruised through the main channel through Murano and then around the southern tip of Venice to the main docks just south of St. Mark's Square. As our group departed the boat at approximately 12 noon it was decided we would all meet here later in the day at 8pm - so we had the full afternoon to ourselves. Most headed right for St. Mark's Square while Heather and I took off down the narrowest alleyway and away from the crowds. We were on a venture for a fantastic lunch off the beaten path - which we found at the Traverna SanLio which is a small tavern and bed and breakfast away from St. Mark's Square but not out of reach. We started with a delicious carpaccio and a glass of Pinot Grigio. This was followed by our main dish whereby I had a local specialty Venetian liver and onions on a bed of polenta and Heather had the Sea Bass cannelloni. Both were absolutely perfect. We capped this lunch with a wonderful cheese plate. A cappuccino closed out the meal and we were off exploring the city. Of course this was quickly interrupted by a gelato which we enjoyed as we strolled the streets.

After an hour of walking we found a nice street with a park bench and we sat down and dozed off for a quick catnap. We obviously felt very safe or we were simply ignorant to our potential danger but we woke up with everything still in tact and we ventured off again. Now it was time to get to St. Mark's Square. The large cruise ship was loading up so the streets were emptying and now St. Mark's Square was ours.

We arrived and enjoyed the Doge Palace facade, St. Mark's Basilica, and the Campanile Tower and of course the Piazza San Marco. St. Mark's Basilica was constructed in approximately 1050 and is an amazing representation of the collision of the cultures of the east and west. It is an amazing structure and it is unimaginable the amount of time and detail that is present in this structure - all done without power tools and building codes!

After a few photos (ok probably 100+) we sat down in the Piazza for a glass or two of prosecco and a Cuban cigar and a couple hours of just soaking in the atmosphere. The theme from the Godfather or Volare' playing the the background and the sun slowly setting over the square with the lights of the evening slowly taking hold and you have a magical moment.

Soon it was time to go and make our way back to the rendezvous point and join up with our group. We grabbed a little pizza and a beer and it was time to take the boat back to the bus and back to the hotel. A great day for sure.