And the final cousin count = 48!
This will be my last post. In a few hours I will begin my journey via train north to Roma. I will stay at a hotel at the airport as I have a 6:20 a.m. flight tomorrow morning – Roma to Amsterdam to Minneapolis.
I can’t believe my trip is almost over. The last few days have been just as exciting as the others. On Saturday there was another family festa at Cousin Antonio’s. There were 4 musicians this time – so there was singing and dancing. The food was fantastic - complete with a beautiful homemade torta (cake). Antonio sure knows how to throw a party!!
The musicians and Angela play while I show some of the cousins my family tree album (a work in progress).
Mariangela with a plate of bruschetta (it was fabulous)!!
Anna assisting as I cut the homemade torta
Dancing and singing made the night very special!
On Sunday many of the cousins attended an event for cousin Giuseppe. He is an editor/writer and was introducing a new book. There was a panel of his academic colleagues who spoke about the book along with Giuseppe. I had absolutely no clue what was being discussed but was happy I could attend and be supportive along with the other family members. There was a lovely buffet after the discussion. It gave me a chance to say my goodbyes to many of the cousins.
This trip gave me many wonderful memories and again solidified my wish and hope that I can live in Italy someday soon. I feel at home here! I was amazed on this trip at how much better I was able to speak and understand the language. I had taken Italian lessons years ago but then started taking Italian classes in Minneapolis again the past few years and they have helped – I will definitely continue them.