Asiago (aka Dana)

"Asiago is an Italian cow's milk cheese that can assume different textures, according to its aging, from smooth for the fresh Asiago (Asiago Pressato) to a crumbly texture for the aged cheese (Asiago d'allevo) of which the flavour is reminiscent of Parmesan. The aged cheese is often grated in salads, soups, pastas, and sauces while the fresh Asiago is sliced to prepare panini or sandwiches; it can also be melted on a variety of dishes, including bagels. Sometimes Asiago is treated as interchangeable with the parmesan and romano cheeses in some cuisines."

I met Dana soon after I started dating her brother when I was a freshman in college.  Dana's brother is NOT Kenny, so obviously that relationship ended, but Dana and I became very close during the time I dated him.  Dana has a very strong Italian heritage, learned Italian in college and visits her cousins, who live in Italy, regularly (at least it seems like it to me).  As one can see, Asiago is a VERY appropriate cheese alias for her. When I go to Italy, I am going to plan it around one of Dana's trips, for sure!

It is because of Dana that I joined AOII at UC Davis and my most fun memories in the sorority all include her. I have never laughed so hard than when I was with Dana and we are guaranteed a good laugh as long as she is on our trip! Although years go by without our paths crossing, we can always pick up where we left off when we get together.  I am so excited you are going to be a part of this transition in my life!

Fontina (aka Bridgit, Birdy or Bird)

"The original Fontina cheese from Italy is fairly pungent and has quite an intense flavor, although cheeses labeled Fontina that are produced in other countries tend to be much milder. The Danish version is particularly common in US grocery stores, and can be distinguished from Italian Fontina by the red wax rind (Italian Fontina has a natural rind due to aging, which is usually tan to orange-brown); Danish Fontina is much less aged, and therefore semi-soft and much milder than its Italian counterpart".


Very interesting.....but what is the commonality between Birdy and Fontina, you ask?  Pungent?  Not how I would describe my sister-in-law on a normal day, or any day for that matter!  I would, however, describe her as having an intense flavor for unique style.  Since I have known her, Fontina pushes the outer limits when choosing clothing combinations, paint color, and decore...in a good way, of course.  She definitely has an eye for flair and can pick out the most unique items for her home.


Fontina is married to my brother Scott.  A few days ago they celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary but I have known her much longer than that. Scott and Bridgit's relationship started when they "went together" in 6th grade.  I don't remember how long that lasted, but I do remember a day, years later, when Scott and I were in high school.  I didn't realize at the time that Scott had kept in touch with her, but that day, Bridgit, with VERY TALL bangs, showed up at our door step.  She held a wrapped gift in her hand and asked me to give it to my brother.  I remember feeling a little territorial, and wondered who the heck this girl was, with such tall bangs, thinking she was important enough to give MY brother a gift!

Much to my chagrin, they ended up at the same college and started dating "again".  However, by the time they got married, I was very excited to gain her as a real-live, honest to goodness sister!


I have so enjoyed getting to know Bridgit over the last 15+ years and bonding at family functions.  A few years ago she coordinated a very fun girls trip to Las Vegas of which I was honored to be a part.  (I am pretty sure I mentioned this trip in Provolone's post).  She is creative, has great ideas and is helping me add  some flair to this trip as well.  Her calm demeanor is a necessity to stay married to my brother, however I appreciate it more than I will ever be able to express. Thank you, Fontina, for your never-ending support and all you do to help keep me sane and focused. This trip and my life would not be the same without you in it!
(P.S. I just had to post the bangs picture, I hope you forgive me!)