Carnival has started and last weekend Grace and I went with friends to see the celebrations in Chieri, a town not far from here.  Every town or city celebrates Carnival differently, though apart for once years ago when I went to Venice, (incredible), we've only seen Carignano's, (GP's hometown).  Chieri had a parade with floats and a large flea market covering all of the pedestrian medieval center.

The crowds watching a Pirate Ship

It was small and really just for kids as most of the provincial town celebrations are now.  Tomorrow, however, we are going to Ivrea, a large town north of Torino, which has one of the more famous Carnivals in Italy.  Tomorrow we'll see "The battle of the oranges"!  History says that it is a tradition started in the 12th or 13th century when townspeople overthrew the local bigwig tyrant and his army.  The tyrant had tried to rape a young miller's daughter but instead she cut off his head, (that'll teach him), which was the beginning of the rebellion.  Now Carnival in Ivrea is 2 weeks of constant partying, balls, parades, fairs all culminating in the "battle" representing the uprising.  I've never been and it should be fun.  We've been warned to wear washable clothes and something red to mark ourselves as "off-limits"  Can't wait!  GP will not be joining us as he has filial responsibilities.

 Another saga is upon us.  The in-laws 60th anniversary is coming up.  They are all in a fuddle to organize a large lunch they'll be hosting for 40 guests some weekend in April.  Big anniversaries, like weddings and baptisms, are a time for showing "una bella figura", (translates into "making a good impression").  My mother-in-law loves this stuff.  She'll put on a good spread, be the center of attention, and it will give her fodder for talk for the next few years.  They have already sent out the invites and she is thrilled that everyone has accepted.  Tomorrow GP will take them to see the restaurant where the party will take place.  They'll have lunch and spend hours with the owner discussing the menu in minute details.  There will be six appetizers to choose, (3 cold and 3 warm), 2 "firsts", (pasta, rice or soup dish), 2 "seconds", (meat or fish), sides, desserts, wines, cordials.  It'll take the whole day.  As the last thing I need is another huge meal I'm glad Ivrea Carnival is a cultural experience that Grace and I really shouldn't miss.   Now off to find a red hat.  xxoo me

I believe this is a toadstool