Tradizioni Natalizie...Christmas Traditions ...

It wouldn't be Christmas without them,  and this year was no different.  The season began, as it always has, by choosing a Christmas Tree.  For as long as I can remember I have loved choosing just the right tree. Decorating the tree and the house, making it cosy was next on the list of seasonal traditions. One of the most special traditions was when I was very young, watching Mom and Dad making Cartellate at the restaurant.  They would spend a very long day making lots of these delicious pastries for the family and many friends.  As I got older,  I too have embraced this tradition,  making Cartellate with Mom and my sister and my daughter and niece.  This year was the first Christmas without Mom being present to help us,  but she was there in spirit and in our hearts as we happily carried on the tradition while remembering and reminiscing about days gone by and how Mom and Dad would have been so happy to see us enjoying our memories... and making new ones...

Feste...Holiday Time...

It seems hard to believe that it is that time of year again.  I have been very absent from my blog for quite some time.  The loss of a Mother changes the way everything feels.  This holiday season just feels different, and if I am to be completely honest, a little sad.  But... Christmas is upon us! Time for traditions, and that always includes special meals and get togethers... not to mention SWEETS! The traditions must carry on,  for all of us,  but especially for our children.  Traditions create memories... and what do we have if we have no memories...

Buon Natale... Merry Christmas...

Another year as past... wonder where it went.  Time does seem to fly.  Traditions come to mind this time of year.  It can be a bit melancholy.  Memories of past Christmases,  and new ones in the making Keeping traditions alive for future generations... some will be kept,  others may evolve into new ones. Health and family are the hope for the future.  Making Merry for sharing and spending time with loved ones... That's what it's all about...Buon Natale a tutti... Merry Christmas to all...

Preparando Per Natale... Getting Ready For Christmas...

I always feel like we are supposed to be getting ready for a Holiday before the previous Holiday is here.  I don't like that.  I take them one at a time.... that said... Bring on Christmas!

Buon Natale... Merry Christmas...

A birthday cake is always on the Christmas List of desserts ... Happy Birthday Jim...

Dolci... Sweets...

Remembering Christmas seasons past... when Mom and Dad would spend a very long day at the restaurant making Cartellate for sharing with friends and family.  They got going early in the day ready to make tons of the very traditional treats ... it wouldn't have been Christmas without this tradition.  Anna and I decided a few years ago that the tradition,  which pretty much ended when Dad passed away,  should  continue.  We've only made them for three years,  and although we saw them being made for many years,  we are not quite as good at the process as Mom was.  Practice will make perfect,  if that is what we're after,  although simply making these lovely pastries,  and remembering Mom and Dad makes for a happy day,  and very special memories...

Preparando Per Natale... Getting Ready For Christmas...

It's hard to believe that Christmas is almost here. I can't quite understand what makes the season seem so hectic,  we really try to keep the whole gift giving thing to a minimum so as to not take part in all of the craziness.   I am hoping that by getting the house decorated,  and gifts bought,  I will have more time to just enjoy the season, gather with family and friends,   and do some traditional holiday baking.