Let me give you a run through of an ordinary Sunday in Italy. I just experienced this with my boyfriend's family, and it was quite a relaxing and enjoyable day. The way Sundays are supposed to be.
I come into a home filled with homemade pasta laid out. Very authentic Italian. I was offered to be taught how to do this. Yes, of course, I want to learn. I am in Italy after all. Dinner is being prepared and family is arriving. I meet Marco's grandmother for the first time, and understand when she calls me bella. Score. We watch cooking shows together. I am at ease.
Marco's brother's arrive. One with a tiny niece, only three months old, the other with a tinier puppy. Also three months old. 4 generations eat together. I am called the foreign aunt, which may sound as an insult, but is actually quite a compliment. Happy to be in a great family!
I quickly realize that grandmother's everywhere act the same. The speak to babies with high pitched tones, they fill the need to kiss and hug, they love being around family, and most importantly, they are cherished by all.
Marco and I watch a movie that reminds me of my home, but for today, I do not feel homesick. I feel happy to have a family here too. Before we leave I am given sauce to take home. (In the US I am often given food before I leave, as well.)
Lunch last three courses, and several laughs. Sunday was the way it was meant to be. Sunday is a day for dinner. A day for family. A day for wine. A day for laughing.
*Next weekend I meet the other side of the family. A full immersion of the Italian experience with someone I love. Fantastic.
No comments:
Post a Comment