Love the colorful graphics on this packaging for Sprungli Chocolates at their store in the Zurich airport.

While in Paris for Maison et Objet, we noticed bold pops of color everywhere—at the show and stores around the city. Bright, saturated, splashes were the trend of the day. Think jungle green, sunflower yellow, peacock blue, zesty orange, watermelon pink, and cherry red. We loved it, especially against the snowy Parisian backdrop. And so will you when you perk up your home with a few accent pillows, vases, or linens. It’s time to color your world. Très belle!

An eye-popping pink wall at Maison et Objet.

Great idea for the wall color. The warm grey makes the bold upholstery colors shine.

While in Italy last February, I think I savored  a steaming bowl of ribollita either at lunch or dinner every day. That was my introduction and it’s been part of our menus ever since. Make a pot and discover why.

I’m guessing this soup came about when a frugal Italian cook decided to use up day-old bread and the rinds from cheese. Everything went into the pot to stretch the meal and feed more hungry mouths.

This is Ina Garten’s recipe (FoodNetwork.Com). I’ve made some notes at the end of my own additions or twists. This is the kind of soup that allows for substitutions and changes. Nothing fancy. Just delish. Buon appetito!

**Chris’s Notes

1. OK, I skip those dried beans and go for the canned cannellini. So much faster.

2. Hard to believe, but I skip the pancetta or bacon. Mine is a pure vegetable soup. No meat.

3. I add brocollini to the veg list.

4. I also add the breadcrumbs/cubes (I’m not that precise. Again, this is a forgiving soup) and the cheese to the pot with about 30-45 minutes to go. I like everything blended in the soup. Then, sprinkle more cheese on top for serving.

5. I’ve also been known to pour in about 1/4 C of white wine for additional liquid. Then, let the alcohol boil off.

Well, my fellow travelers, start packing and stop fretting. Meet our new best friend in Paris, Donna Morris. A transplanted Southerner, Donna owns a personalized travel service—Best Friend in Paris—www.bestfriendinparis.com

If a Paris vacances (French for vacation) is in your future, contact Donna. She’ll suggest places to stay, cafes to enjoy, and wine bars to entice. Plus, she can show you the ins and outs of riding the Metro, bus, or regional rail network (RER). After one morning, you’ll act like a French commuting pro.

Once you meet Donna, you’ll love her energy, enthusiasm, and adventurous spirit. Working with her is like having your best friend, sister, and personal concierge in Paris, one of our favorite cities.

Donna leading us on a snowy tour of Paris’ largest flea market—Marche Saint-Ouen.

Miss G.—a legend in her own mind.

Welcome to the Third-Annual EuropeanMarket Golden Greta Awards. This promises to be a ceremony of glitter, glitz, and Greta. For 2012, we have many people and places worthy of a Golden Greta, but as you know, only a select few are lucky enough to go home with the GG trophy. This year, we hoped to televise the event, but due to network budget cuts and the unusual demands of our chosen host, Honey Boo Boo, we didn’t have the funding to broadcast the show. So, put on your party clothes and settle in your favorite chair for the 2012 Golden Greta Awards. Take it away…….

Best Neighbors—Terry and Chere G.

Mr. and Mrs. G. came out in a mid-March snow at midnight to pick up the two of us (and our overweight luggage) at the UW Union after a bus trip from Chicago O’Hare. Also, they allow us to borrow the Ford Windstar when we need to haul a lot of stuff. What would we do without these two awesome people? Plus, they tolerate Miss Greta. Right, Terry?

Best In-Flight Service/Regional Airline—Air Dolomiti

Welcome aboard Air Dolomiti.

Wow! Based in Italy, Air Dolomiti puts most major airlines to shame when it comes to service. On a flight (in a prop-jet) from Pisa, Italy to Munich, the flight attendants offered hot towels, then poured a selection of Italian wines (make your choice from the menu) in an ACTUAL wine glass. Yes, a glass. Plus, served an awesome sandwich of Italian cheeses on foccacia. Can they start flying to Madison? Please!

Best In-Flight Service/Major Airline—British Airways

Fly the flag (and enjoy your meal) with British Airways.

This year, British Airways wins the GG for in-flight service. Flying from London to Chicago, we enjoyed a luncheon service of—minted tabbouleh salad, seared fillet of Herefordshire beef with bourguignonne garnish of bacon (HELLO!), mushrooms, and baby onions. This was accompanied by pommes Anna. Dessert was a passion-fruit posset. Then, I might have taken part in the afternoon tea service of chicken salad and egg salad sandwiches. With chocolate cake. Time to roll me off the plane.

Best Airport Shopping—London Heathrow/Terminal 5

Do some shopping on the way to your flight at LHR Terminal 5.

This really is a mall that just happens to be an airline terminal. The expansive, glass enrobed Terminal 5 serves as the home of British Airways, but truly this is all about the shopping (and the eating). Standing among the throngs of travelers you’ll see Harrod’s, Bally, Burberry, Cath Kidson, Dior, Michael Kors, Paul Smith, Thomas Pink, and more. We always try to pop into celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food for a bite.

Best Hotel—Cerretani Hotel Florence; Florence, Italy

Florence’s stunning Duomo, steps from the Hotel Cerretani.

The Cerretani is an M Gallery hotel, part of the French Accor chain. This hotel sits in one of the best locations in Florence, halfway between the main train station and the city’s famous Duomo. When we walked into the lobby, I knew we selected an awesome hotel because they were serving Preseco in the lobby. No charge! Sweet! What’s not to like about that? We had a wonderfully comfy room on the 4^th floor with views of the city’s roofs to the mountains far in the distance. When we return to Florence this is where you’ll find us.

Worst Adventure Leaving an Airport—Florence to Pisa, Italy

Hmmmm. I knew we were in for some excitement when we entered the Florence airport (March 2012) and saw “cancelled” flashing across all the flight monitors. Well, not at Lufthansa. All the flights were departing (cough, cough). We Germans know how to run an airline. A little rain and fog won’t stop us (insert another cough, cough here). Well, after an hour waiting at the gate for a plane that never did arrive, Lufthansa gathered us and our luggage and put us on a bus to Pisa, Italy. Did I mention unorganized chaos? If you ever have the opportunity to ride a bus to Pisa, my advice is not to do it. That’s all I’ll say. I was convinced I was going to loose our bags and Sue in Pisa. The good news is that both arrived safely back in the US. Oh, and I might have been pulled out of line by Italian air security in Pisa and given one of the most “robust” pat downs I’ve ever experienced. When the officer was done I wanted to offer him a cigarette and a glass of Scotch, but thought it best to shut my mouth.

Best Scenery—Umbria, Italy

Umbria, Italy’s green heart.

I know I am biased, but Umbria is my favorite region of Italy. Everywhere you look is another stunning scene for your eyes and mind. This last visit took us in February and early March, while the snow was on the ground in places. I still loved it. Plus, there’s just something about the Italian light and the way it highlights the blue mountains, red tile roofs, and yellow stone houses. Bella!

Best Tossing of Life Jackets to EuropeanMarket

We’re the first to admit we need help from time-to-time. OK, I’m sure we need help most of the time. These folks lend a hand when we need it. How’d we get so lucky to work with these smart, cool, talented folks?

Kathy M.—proofing and editing of our printed pieces and newsletters. Kathy and I worked together years ago at Meredith Corp. where she was one of the best editors around. She has a way with words. And, making sure I don’t write something dumb. I keep her busy with that last part.

Nathan D.—OK, EuropeanMarket wouldn’t function without Nathan and his tech skills. This is the guy that keeps everything running behind the scenes. Let’s be honest, I really don’t know anything about websites. I still have problems operating a TV remote control.

Mark V.—business and banking advisor to the stars and EuropeanMarket. Mark helps us  with smart, logical business advice. I know I can go to him and bounce ideas off him. He usually tries not to give me too many eye rolls.

Andy F.—like Mark, Brother Andy helps us out with the business, marketing, and advertising end of EuropeanMarket. Andy knows more about marketing a business and targeting an audience than I’ll ever hope to learn. Plus, he is THE Social Media Guru.

Best Customers and Friends of EuropeanMarket

We’ve said it before, but we need to say it again. You people rock! Without our clients, EuropeanMarket wouldn’t be here. Thank you for your continued support and business during 2012. We hope you visit us in 2013. Cheers!

We’re not talking about anything fancy, just a few easy-to-do items—cheeses, mixed nuts, marinated olives, crackers, maybe some type of smoked sausage. Finger food, but a step up from pretzels and corn nuts.

Let guests serve themselves, so you can relax and enjoy your party.

Since we’re based in Wisconsin, America’s Dairyland, we typically serve a variety of cheeses. One that usually makes the cut is an aged cheddar. Our guests always like its crumbly, sharp tang.

This holiday, when you’re hosting a gathering at your place don’t forget the nibbles and a few glasses of good cheer.

Sources for Wisconsin Cheese

* Brennan’s Market—a favorite in the Madison-area. Try the white cheddar with cranberries. A must-have for several of our friends in MA and IA.

—http://www.brennansmarket.com/blog/

* Old Tavern Club Cheese—located in Waukesha, this is the place if you’re searching for Wisconsin supper club relish tray favs like cheddar pecan spread or port wine spread. The foods of my youth.

—http://www.oldtaverncheese.com/

Cheese Course Ideas

If you want to learn more about Swiss and French cheeses, or serve a cheese course as is often done in Europe, visit the site of cookbook author and knowledgeable source of all things French, Wini Moranville. Wini also provides some excellent recipes served with a dash of French flavor and flair.

—http://chezbonnefemme.com/

European Home Wares

Don’t be caught short of serving pieces the day of your party. We have several unique, timeless platters that will make your evening sparkle.

—Finnish Serving Platters—http://shop.europeanmarket.us/Finnish-Serving-Platters-14FN.htm

—French Serving Platters—http://shop.europeanmarket.us/French-Serving-Platter-27FR.htm

Dresden’s Christmas market at night with the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) in the background.

Most larger towns in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, France, and northern Italy have a Christmas market where vendors sell their items from wood huts decorated in lights and fresh greens. The shopping is great, but we just like the people watching and listening to the holiday music, too.

My favorite Christmas market is in Dresden, Germany. Just for the size of this market and the fact that Dresden bakeries produce some of the tastiest (and most calorie-laden) stollen I’ve eaten. Yum!

This year, EuropeanMarket, will be displaying our products at our first Christmas market in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, November 23-24. I’m hoping any snow misses our state that weekend. Come out and see us. If you bring me a flask containing a warming beverage, I’ll be sure to give you a discount.

If you have the opportunity, take a vacation to Europe in the early winter and stop at the Christmas markets. I think you’ll cherish them as much as we do.

I almost shipped this set of wheels home—the Dresden Stollenmobile. Sweet!

Take a quick tour to some of these Christmas markets. Share your favorites or others I’ve missed. Would love to know about them.

1. Dresden, Germany—http://www.dresden.de/dtg/en/veranstaltungen/weihnachtszeit/weihnachtsmaerkte.php

2. Eisenach, Germany—http://www.thuringia-tourism.com/travel-hotel-holiday-tour/christmas-markets-128154.html

3. Strasbourg, France—http://www.otstrasbourg.fr/article.php?id_article=248&lang=en

4. Vienna, Austria—http://www.wien.info/en/shopping-wining-dining/markets/christmas-markets

5. Oconomowoc, Wisconsin—http://germanchristmasmarket.org/

Boo, a Jack Russell/beagle mix from Seattle, loves the vintage Swiss Army blanket his mom, Ginny, ordered. Apparently, the blanket makes the ideal cover for Ginny’s sofa. Boo being a pooch of good taste, recognizes that and appreciates the extra snuggle factor the blanket brings to the sofa. Nap on, Boo!

Boo gets comfortable on his Swiss Army blanket.

Our four-legged pal, Louis (an Australian shepherd mix) from Des Moines, believes that a Swiss Army tote makes the perfect pillow. When the bag is on the floor, Louis curls against it and gets ready to take a much-needed afternoon nap. Just don’t chew those leather handles, Louis, or you might find yourself using some old regular pillow. Like a people. Yipes!

Louis gets ready for a nap with his Swiss Army tote/pillow.

The lady that puts the "grrr" in growl, Miss Greta.

As 2011 comes to an end, it’s time to announce the winners of our much anticipated (yet never duplicated), EuropeanMarket Golden Greta Awards. This year, the award committee had difficulties compiling a list of the best (and the worst) of our travel experiences. But, after much discussion and a few cocktails, we now reveal our winners. So, roll out the red carpet, turn on the spotlights, and put on your glittering party clothes as we bestow our 2011 Golden Gretas. Drum roll, please…..

Best In-flight Bar Service—Air France

When an airline serves free Champagne to economy class passengers, there really isn’t any competition. Air France wins this category. And, yes, I might have had enjoyed more than one glass. Someone had to be a tester for this award competition.

Dinner is served onboard Air France.

Best In-flight Meal Service—Air France

Not only do they put some other carriers to shame with their bar service, but Air France wins this year’s award for best economy class meals. Flight attendants pass out menus (just like they do for the folks riding in the front of the plane). Then,  return to take and present your order. Here’s a sample of one meal we enjoyed—soybean, corn, and cranberry salad; roast chicken in grain mustard sauce with rice pilaf and vegetables; French cheese; and chocolate raspberry cake. Yum!

The wonderful and cozy Hotel La Marisa.

Best Hotel—Hotel La Marissa

Located in the charming French beach town of St. Jean de Luz, the Hotel La Marissa wins as our favorite home-away-from-home for 2011. We loved it from the minute we arrived at 1:30 a.m. after a long trip. This small hotel offers comfortable rooms, delicious breakfasts (Basque cheese, rolls, cherry jam, ham, yogurt, and robust coffee) set either in the breakfast room or on the patio. Plus, and this is what sets this hotel apart from the rest, Ms. Sylvie oversees everything with an eye to her clients’ comfort. She’s assisted by Mehdi (the manager) and the other top-notch crew members. Perfect!

Best Small World Moment—Café Latin

At the Café Latin in Paris we met Sly, our waiter. Turned out Sly spent time working at a resort in northern Wisconsin about 15 years ago. So, we talked about the Green Bay Packers, Friday night fish fries, cheese, summer sausage, Milwaukee, and Madison. We made Sly an honorary Cheesehead.

Jenny Craig who?

Best Dessert—Rice Pudding with Nut Brittle

We enjoyed this incredible creamy, updated classic treat at Le Kaiku in St. Jean de Luz, France. Presented in a glass, the pudding was in layers—at the bottom was homemade caramel sauce, then rice pudding, and then some wonderful nut brittle. We ordered one and split it. Big mistake. Sue wasn’t interested in sharing.

Worst Time Trying to Leave an Airport—Bilbao, Spain

This has to rank as one of the most frustrating 50 minutes of my life. We landed in Bilbao at 11:30 at night (probably our first mistake). Then, it was time to load the rental car, exit the airport parking ramp, and drive to St. Jean de Luz, France (about 1.5 hours away). It also might have been helpful if I had gotten better directions. Well, well, well. Or as they say in Spain, “Silly Americans shouldn’t drive at night.” We circled the Bilbao airport for at least 30 minutes. 30 minutes looking for an exit. 30 minutes looking for anything that looked like a road toward France. After 40 minutes we did travel down a dark road (Sue claims it was a farm path) and passed Bilbao’s sewage treatment plant. After 50 minutes, we finally found the correct highway and headed for France. At that point, I dropped an entire OPEN bottle of Coke on my lap. Have you ever sat in wet pants? For 90 minutes? It wasn’t a fun drive. I’ll leave it at that. Oh, and there might have been cursing.

Most Awkward 10 Minutes Spent with Border Agents—Lake Constance, Switzerland

The Swiss are a thorough people. And, a secure people. So secure that in September, while driving from Germany to Switzerland, the Swiss Border Patrol stopped us. We both thought, “What the French toast did Chris do now?” Chuckle away, gentle reader. After I stopped the car, a very stern and official looking soldier instructed me to get out of the car. Then, in his best German/English combo said, “Passports, bitte.” For the next 10 minutes, he and another agent went over our passports, my driver’s license, my international driver’s license, and our luggage (and let me say we have a lot of luggage). I think they thought we were smuggling cocaine. Yup, just a couple of drug runners from Wisconsin.

When I retire, be sure to visit me in St. Jean de Luz. You can't beat this view.

Favorite Location—St. Jean de Luz, France

We’ve been fortunate enough to visit some wonderful locations across Europe, but this year’s winner is the French town of St. Jean de Luz. Located in southwest France, St. Jean de Luz, sits on a bay facing the Atlantic Ocean. Sandy beaches stretch for miles. If there was a European address we’d move to for retirement, this just might be it. Did I mention the sangria?

Best Customers, Vendor Partners, and Friends

The last award is the most coveted and it belongs to all of you. We wouldn’t be here without your business and support. We appreciate all of you, so come up on stage and accept your awards. But, please try to keep your acceptance speeches to the allotted time. We’re on a tight budget with the network.

So, I jumped right in at one of our first stops, Lauscha, Germany and the glass studio of Michael Haberland. Michael makes exquisite glass ornaments. OK, let me admit, I was a tad intimidated by the flames. I seemed to do a decent job of spinning the hot glass, but not so much when it came time to form the ornament. Mine turned out looking like an infected appendix, not a round glass sphere.

Also in Lauscha, I took a turn painting ornaments. Hmmm…looked easier than it was. There truly is an art to dipping the glass balls into the paint, twirling them, and shaking off the excess paint. Then, the ornaments are placed upside down on special racks to dry before they move along to the next step in the decorating process. I was fortunate to get out with red paint all over my hair.

In Hof, Germany, at Eagle Products (makers of fine wool and cashmere scarves and blankets), it was time for me to learn how to comb blanket fringe. Who knew fringe needed to be combed before each blanket is wrapped and shipped? The nice German lady teaching me told me I took too long with each blanket. Living by the words—time is money.

Our friend, Hanspeter, had me carving a cow while in Brienz, Switzerland. Brienz is the center of woodcarving in Switzerland. Beautiful pieces ranging in size from small toys and Christmas decorations to life-size creations for use in cathedrals and churches. As I sat down at the bench to start work on my cow, Hanspeter said (insert thick German accent here), “I will now call the ambulance.” Hmmmmm….what kind of support is that?

Next stop, Zug, Switzerland, where I worked the counter at Aeschbach Chocolates. A chocoloate-lovers paradise. In the cocoa-scented sanctuary, our good pal Simone, had me working the counter. Sue laughed because none of the customers were interested in having me wait on them. I said it was because my German isn’t the best. Sue said it was because they didn’t trust me to take an order. Again, a complete lack of support. What’s up with that?

Now, next time you decide to comb blanket fringe and want to do it the correct way, just give me a call. I’m the guy with the answers.