It has been a full and interesting past two week in many ways.
This is my first morning to reflect and to share some of our experiences with you. Although this theme was just a very small part of our Christmas gatherings, it was meaningful and special as we celebrated with our own family on Saturday, with my sister and her family on Sunday and with our dear friends, H&M on Monday. They can all attest to the fact that although it was all far from perfect, it was the walks, the games and the fellowship and sharing that made our time together so special.
Thank you to all of you for being a special part of our Christmas celebrations.
Grazie Molto! Arrivederci!
More Italian phrases here
(and yes K, we missed you and wish you were here to join us)
Games played
Our yearly tradition of playing Masterpiece with our friends H&M
I thought that I would give you just a sampling of how we celebrate Christmas around the world and this year, in Italy. I don't have a lot of time, so it isn't really in order, but it will give you an idea in the next three posts.
We were privileged on Monday to have our dear friends, H&M in. They are always so enthusiastic about our Christmas tradition of international cuisine as they have traveled the world over and have experienced much of what we are learning. They are always able to impart insight as well as their language skills and knowledge to increase the level of interest in our home. My gift of linguistics is almost nil as most of what I try to pronounce comes out with a dutch accent. I am learning though...
With their company on Monday, we enjoyed singing Adeste Fideles in latin, followed by H leading us in a latin prayer which was so beautiful. We enjoyed listening to the Italian National Anthem and viewing the beautiful scenery in the countryside of Italy.
Festive Table
Music from Italy as background
Beverages
The menus consisted of :
Appetizer was melon wrapped in prosciutto
Salads included caprese salad, ravioli balsamic, artichoke caprese
Cheese including parmigiano reggiano and pecorino toscano stagionato
(a centuries old table cheese from Tuscany,it is sturdy and nutty with a hint of salt o n the palette pleasant and inviting nature appeals to novices and cheese lovers alike.)
Italian Breads
Soup which was spinach tortellini with Italian sausage
Assorted Pastas served with chicken and shrimp
Dessert was tirimisu, but also trifle and pie for those who wanted something other than the traditional Italian dessert.
Coffee was Toscano espresso
Melon wrapped in Prosciutto
Biscotti, Pupatelle and Grappa Chocolates
Tirimisu, Trifle and Pecan Pie
Decadent Dessert
Italian goodies from our friends H&M
Sheet music for Adeste Fideles found here
Trivia Sheet found here
And more interesting Italian Fun Facts can be read here
Of course we had to listen to the Italian National Anthem with our friends, H&M.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Italian cities and countryside: