We're all feeling the pinch of the economic downturn. Cutting back on spending is on many of our minds, but what will you not sacrifice? My friend Miriam says, "Do not cut back on food." She meant keep buying healthy fruits and vegetables, and of course, after living in Italy, they are not up for negotiation. One other area I won't give up is good parmegianno. What are non-negotiable items for you? Is it clothes, shoes? What you will not give up no matter the economic situation? Tell, tell!

Well Martha - A couple of years ago I tried to do a database of suggested food. Probably I should replace the database with a set of articles... I am thinking.

I buy mainly from Traders Joe and Costco. I tried Balducci ( Balducci has excellent product ) but I need finincing to enter the Balducci store so, forget it !

Costco Signature extra virgin olive oil is excellent for salads ( I use a cheaper oil for cooking)

Also Coscto balsamic Vinegar is excellent

and Buffalo Mozzarella from Campania

..maybe I will replace the database http://my.lifeinitaly.com/food/ with an article or more articles.

My tango lessons, workshops and functions.

Definitely good quality food. We always buy as much organic as possible. What with the environment and the fact that "everything" gives you cancer these days, investing in a good diet should be on anyone's list of priorities...

I'm not a big shopper, and I only go clothes shopping about once or twice a year, really... So I don't have much to compromise on that front.

Also, travelling is something I MUST do every Summer. It keeps me sane and refuels me for the school year ahead.

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So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,
So long lives this,
And this gives light to thee.

Martelli pasta from Lari is my favorite brandbut it now needs to be ordered in line.