Dreams from Biancavilla

I remember picking up my firstborn, John, from toddler daycare one day, many years ago. On that day, for some reason, I decided to hide and observe him at play. Being a daycare, there weren’t a lot of good hiding spots. After only a minute or two, John caught a glimpse of me and came running across the room with the most amazing look of happiness on his face. I’ve played that reel in my head many times; especially during the challenging years. It will be one of those flash-before-my-eyes scenes as I take my last breath (which hopefully is not soon).  Today, I was given another such moment.  Vincenzo picked me up from Fontanarossa and drove me to Biancavilla. Elena is still in the hospital, and I understand they’re inducing her. Baby Matteo will be here soon! As we opened the entry door, I had a rush of hugs—Mariella, Agnese, Rachele, Alessandro, Maria Teresa! Ettore was napping.  I was swooshed into Mariella’s kitchen, to have rigatoni with mussels and tomatoes. Man, oh man; I missed h