The enchanting story of Pinocchio, written in 1881 by Carlo Lorenzini, is a beloved children’s classic. Not only in Italy, but all over the world! Since February 23rd is Pinocchio Day, I thought it would be a good time to introduce you to one of Italy’s lesser-known theme parks: The Pinocchio Theme Park! However, some […]
Time seems to fly by, especially as we get older. Since our return to active ministry, the to-do lists get longer, time seems shorter, and some days it’s hard to keep up. I can’t believe February is almost here. That means many people will be keeping an eye out for groundhogs (marmots) peeking out of […]
How do you celebrate Mother’s Day Italian-style? Well, nowhere are mothers celebrated more than they are in Italy. In fact, Mother’s Day seems made for Italian mammas! Many Italians idolize their mothers, and she’s never far from their lips. From the simple phrase Mamma Mia (oh my goodness) to songs that honor and revere her, like the […]
Liberation Day is one of Italy’s traditional picnic days. And today’s balmy weather has many people planning one! Which makes me wonder: do all nations have standard picnic days? I only know about Italy and the USA. Americans, of course, are familiar with picnics on Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Labor Day, and others. […]
Toc, toc, toc. I wiped my hands on my apron and headed for the door, wondering who would be visiting so close to lunchtime. “Buon giorno,” I hesitantly greeted the unexpected visitor. “Um, can I help you?” I really didn’t know what to say or do. We’d never had a priest visit us before! “I’m […]
The Italian name for April Fool’s Day is Pesce d’Aprile, or April Fool’s Fish. It comes from the children’s custom of sticking a paper fish on the back of a classmate. Since that child is the only one who does not know about the fish, he or she becomes the April Fool or the fish. […]