Cherished Family Traditions and Memories
I’ve always been a bit of a stickler for tradition. This is probably why I have so many fond family memories tied to those experiences. I remember doing a high school project about the family stories and traditions that different cultures hold dear. On my dad’s side, we’re a large Italian family. We are deeply rooted in tradition, and Christmas is our time to gather.
Each year, we have a get together, and It typically draws about 45-60 people. That’s a pretty big crowd, especially for someone like me who’s anxious in social situations. I’ll admit it, I’m the one who always pulls the classic Irish goodbye. After greeting everyone when I first arrive, my social battery is basically drained.
As for the food, which is what it’s all about for any Italian, our traditional Christmas meal has never changed. There’s always lasagna, sausage and peppers, my grandma’s famous meatballs, my great aunt’s delicious salad, and, of course, garlic bread. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water. When my grandparents were around, we went to my aunt’s house on Christmas morning.
We exchanged gifts with immediate family there. My grandpa would cook his famous potato and eggs, which are my absolute favorite. I have countless memories of helping my grandma in the kitchen. I especially loved when we made the secret biscotti recipe, passed down from a lovely friend named Jeanette.
So generously, they’ve been known as Jeanette Biscotti’s. They’re like a time machine for me. One bite, and I’m transported back to my childhood, savoring every crumb. It’s a treat that only comes once a year, which makes it that much more special.
We used to gather for Thanksgiving too. However, as we’ve all grown and started our own families, it’s been harder to keep up that tradition. In the end, my best memories always seem to revolve around good food and good company. I wouldn’t change a single family tradition for the world.
A La Famiglia!
Family traditions are a silk that weave us into the fabric of times, uniting our past, present and future years. And in that, there is a sense of joy, a steady sense of calm.
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