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...