It's been a while

Well; a while since we've been back here for family, anyway.

The flight was a bit exhausting, but the vivacious Cristiana in Fiumicino got us back on our feet. It stresses to me even more how much I need a 2-day stop between here and Bangkok this fall.

A fresh (97⁰F "fresh") morning with Cristiana's caffè and homemade torta, cornetti, and fresh fruit, before we bid Fiumicino goodbye and flew to Catania.

How great to see Vincenzo and Mariella, who claimed us at the airport! We chatted nonstop in the car. Since EVERYONE is coming to town for the 70th birthday bash, Liliana's wedding, and the baptism, we are staying at the apartment instead of the vigne, albeit just for sleeping and showering. Otherwise, that's where we'll all gather. It sounds as if there are nearly 200 attendees per event (although not all staying at the vigne or house).

Elena greeted us wildly, and I scooped up new baby Giulio, refusing to give him up unless necessary. He's a happy and gorgeous baby. 

After a swim (Joe), distributing the gifts I bought, and visiting with Elena's friend Vanessa, and her kids, we began to discuss dinner. "BBQ," Elena decided. She put Giulio down for a nap and went into town to the butcher.







The kids hung out with us, I helped prepare some wedding giveaways, along with Rodi and Andrea, the two most beautiful hired help/also-family I've seen. Alessandro arrived and started grilling trinca, salsiccia, and chicken cutlets.

Mariella made a huge yummy salad and some veggies; Vincenzo brought a special bread from the bakery. We ate grapes, hanging plump from the vines, for dessert.

Joe happily reunited with the Clio, and we're now back to our second home. Someone left the window open in the loft, so unfortunately there was a broken clay vase









  — and a dead bird. 

Tomorrow. Dealing with it tomorrow.

Tired (but happy-tired).

###




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