Monday, January 25, 2010

Happy Birthday!



Wow! I can hardly believe it, but 2 Baci in a Pinon Tree turns 5 years old today!  It was in 2005 that I ventured into the uncharted cyber waters of blogdom, dubbed myself a blogette because I thought 'blogger' sounded too amphibious to me, and began writing about bad haircuts, springtime tumbleweed slaughters, and my distaste for garage sales.  I chronicled our near-drowning on the Rio Grande, cursed the obnoxious new neighbors who obliterated our beautiful view, and told about some of the beautiful places and traditions around our beloved New Mexico.

I revealed our dream of moving to Italy, and then detailed the plans and stages of the move.  The name still reflects that New Mexico-Italia duality.  Why 2 Baci in a Pinon Tree?  Many have puzzled over it and quizzed me about it.  I wanted something punchy (because why be boring if you don't have to?)  Baci is our pet name for each other, sort of our equivalent of "sweetie" or "honey." It also happens to be our favorite Italian chocolate indulgence (dark chocolate-hazelnut, nature's perfect match!).  Pinon is the state tree of New Mexico.  It sounded snappy and a little funny.  Besides, back then I didn't think anyone would actually start reading and following my journey!

Along the way I fulfilled my dream of living in Italia, became a freelance writer, and recounted the joys and tears of the past five years.  I've received some nice accolades, helped others in their genealogical searches and Italian moves, and have met some wonderful people...all because I started typing into a keyboard and putting it "out there" for others to read. 

Thanks for coming along on the ride.  Stay tuned...as the journey continues!

To celebrate the birthday, I'm throwing a party...and to get in on the fun, all you have to do is show up!  Just put your name on the guest list (ie, leave a comment) and you'll be registered to win a fabulous, tasty and cute Perugina Baci trinket - complete with candy, of course - from bella Italia.  Just leave a comment before January 31 and one lucky birthday guest will get the door prize!

21 comments:

LindyLouMac said...

Fist to arrive at the party! Buon Compleanno, I wish I had discovered the delights of reading blogs when you first started writing.
Still a newcomer but here to stay!

The Carpenters said...

Buon compleanno, anche! It takes a lot of energy to keep the blog postings going, but you've done it (for 5 anni!!) and I know I'm all the better for it - I love your blog! Your writing style invites me to indulge the thought I've known you forever. Brava!

Palma said...

Happy Birthday Baci! I can't wait to see the apartment!
Love the birthday blog!

Mary Ann said...

I enjoy reading about your adventures here and there.

Valentino said...

Happy Birthday 2 Baci! What a wonderful story and I'm sure there is more to come!
Buona Fortuna!

Anonymous said...

Happy birthday! I love reading your blog and can not wait to see the pics of your new home. I hope to be in your shoes one day!
Congrats and thanks for the party :)
Carolynn

nyc/caribbean ragazza said...

wow. Five years? Buon compleanno!

South of Rome said...

Oh, I love a good party! Auguri!!-- And if I win, you have to deliver it in person! BTW, we finally made it to 2Amys last night. Good and fun, but it can never be as good as the real stuff ;)

J.Doe said...

Happy Birthday to a fellow e-New Mexican!! I immediately liked the name of your blog when I found it. The best of luck to you in your new apartment too.

Linda @ Ice Tea For Me said...

Happy Birthday 2 Baci in a Pinon Tree!! What a great place to spend your birthday, in lovely Italia.

Buon Compleanno

Evey said...

I'm in - I love your blog, colorful, personal, joyous, serious, and just the right length always - Auguri!!!!

Gil said...

Happy Birthday! Time sure does fly by when you are having fun. I enjoy your blog, even though I haven't been around since you started.

Diane said...

Happy Birthday - it's been a pleasure to follow you!!!

Lisa Diletti said...

Tanti auguri! Tanti baci a tutti!

Lisa e Fabio

carol in florida!!! said...

How can it be? Five years? Auguri!!!!

Geek girl said...

Wow - 5 years! Buon Compleanno.

Unknown said...

Auguri, auguri! (And you know that, for me, your blog is the only one worth reading.*imagine a happy face*

Vicky said...

Congratulations Valerie! ...if it weren't for your blog we would not have met! I'd love to see photos of your NEW place!

cheryl said...

Tanti Auguri!

viagra online said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Cris said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.