venice...what a wonderful place..gotta take tony there...especially in winter...spooky dreamy and mysteriously romantic.

The recent passing of McQueen has me dumbfounded. Lee was such a marvelous talent and he was as they say, the real deal.One has to wonder where talent like his comes from. I would venture to guess that he possessed the know how and style of a craftsman...one of design and amazing creativity. Via training and hard work he was able to take the world by storm and literally blow us away.
This kind of talent does not just come along everyday. His genius will be forever remembered by those who understand style and invention.I was lucky to have met him in the beginning of his career.I will preciously preserve the memory forever.

Is it old fashioned to try to be a gentleman? What happened to chic and debonair? My parents were the best in that they made sure I was accustomed to proper manners and chivalry. I scarcely see it these days..well in Europe I do. I think parents allovee the world should make an effort to provide the etiquette and know how one needs to taught.Ladies and gentlemen ...unite and make it happen.

Italian shoes

These are a pair from last year's Venice visit...shoulda woulda coulda bought but store was closed...my first pair were red leather loafers we bought in San Remo, Italy when I was 10 years old.i remember going back to the Villa Maria, a small hotel a few blocks from the casino and walked proudly thru the front door in my new shoes.A Catholic clergyperson was registering and I remember he was admiring this kid's shoes and gave me a compliment...I believe it took days before i stopped to change shoes.

Red shoesand all...I remember the meals there that were served with a formal service at lunch and dinner.I gladly listened to my mother in making sure I was on my best behaviour and minded my manners.I believe, this is where I first experienceda pizza pie...Margherita with anchovies..still my favorite.