Long distance visitors

Seth and I don't often get visitors, especially not visitors from outside the US, so it was really special that our Italian buddy, Claudia, and her boyfriend, Stefano, came all the way out to visit us and see Waltham.  Well, I suppose they also wanted to see Boston and go to a friend's wedding in Newport, but those were just side excursions, of course! 

Upon arrival, our first stop was Lexington's Battle Green for some frisbee, naturally

Gratefully, I had Monday off, so I took the pair on a tour of Salem and Cape Ann.  It was a wonderful, crisp and cool New England day.  I wish we had more of these, but it was fantastic for the occasion, at least.
    

Lobster roll lunch in Gloucester

Claudia and I shared some tea with a couple new friends, haha

A Rockport beach

I had never been to Rockport before, either, so it was really fun to explore all the cute little streets that were so full of character... 

...and characters.

 

I think we all really liked this town

Back in Waltham, Seth did exactly what I asked him not to do, which is inform Claudia and Stefano it was my birthday.  He surprised me by decorating the kitchen and he even baked one of his famous cakes.  Claudia and Stefano cooked an AWESOME pasta dinner (linguine with clams and scallops in a garlic and white wine sauce, with a side of fresh bruschetta!).  It turned out to be a very sweet and memorable birthday.

I am really going to have to take advantage of our easy access to fresh clams!  These were amazing, and it was so simple, so I will need to make it at home again later.  I just need to practice a heavy hand when pouring olive oil.

Some Italian gifts!! 

For a big cultural shift, we had Thai at Tree Top Cafe here in town the last night.  Stefano said Claudia and I look similar.  It must be that everyone looks slightly more Asian when eating rice ;o)   

Cool guys

Thanks for visiting, Claudia and Stefano!  We will be sure to come to Foligno sometime soon!