Memories...

I grew up in a VERY Italian family, in fact I am the first generation born here. Some of my fondest memories growing up were the holidays because there were always so many people around. I had a huge family and they were ALWAYS at my house for the holidays. It really didn't even matter which holiday...Christmas eve, Christmas, New Year's Eve, Thanksgiving, Easter hell even flag day was cause for a party at my house! Through it all my mom did EVERYTHING and with very little help from anyone. As I got older and time passed I took somewhat of an interest in what she was doing but not hardly as much as I should have. All I can remember was she and my dad up for days preparing, cooking and baking. And all the while my mom complaining and grumbling the whole time about how much work it was and how THIS was going to be the last year she hosted anything...yeah right! As much as she complained I know she secretly loved it, she just couldn't let anyone else know that!

Eventually, through the years things did slow down...stopped in fact. Who wasn't talking to this one or that one had to go to the in-laws or sadly they left us all together. I think of my huge family now and there's hardly any of them left and that leaves me very sad and lonely and longing for those old days. I miss all the ruckus and complaining and cursing in Italian! Weird huh? With everyone practically gone now it has made me really not enjoy or look forward to the holidays...ANY of them..not even Flag day!

I spent today with Laura and her family in what she lovingly refers to as Easter Panic. I watched her slave away all day with her mom and dad, even her sister and neice made an appearance now then. It reminded me of all the things I miss and brought back so many great memories. I have to admit I got a little teary but not in a bad way at all.

Thanks Baby, for including me. I hope you know much you mean to me and thanks for making me look forward to the holidays again. XOXO.