Italy We felt due for a stop in Italy tonight, so cooked pasta alla carbonara (with some veges thrown in to keep Mum happy). It was delicious! Carter especially loved it, because it was almost his favourite; broccoli and pasta. We followed that with a dessert of apples poached in wine, which apparently is a very commonly eaten dessert over there. We agreed it was like silk slipping down our throats; absolutely beautiful. We reckon the Italians are on to a good thing; fresh ingredients, prepared simply but lovingly and treated with respect. Meals are enjoyed with family and not rushed. Compare that to New Zealand where so much comes out of a packet, is prepared within 10 minutes, and eaten in front of the t.v. And we wonder why we have an obesity problem. Thanks for all your comments.