A little girl in Rome

I could hardly contain my excitement as the plane touched down in Rome. Italy's sights, sounds, and aromas welcomed us with open arms. It was a sensory overload, a whirlwind of beauty and history. For the first time, I was surrounded by the very essence of my ancestry.

Our journey took us to a small, picturesque village nestled among the rolling hills of Castro De Volci. It was a place of ancient cobblestone streets, where time seemed to stand still. My heart swelled as I met relatives who greeted us with warm hugs, kisses on both cheeks and hearty laughter. The language flowed like a symphony, and although my Italian was rusty, the language of family transcended all barriers.

In the days that followed, my grandparents and I explored every nook and cranny of the village. We savored the rich flavors of homemade pasta and fresh olive oil, which had been lovingly cultivated for generations. The memories of those shared meals, brimming with laughter and love, are etched in my heart.

My grandparents, with their vast knowledge of our family's history, became my guides through time. They recounted stories of their childhood, their struggles and triumphs, and the deep-rooted traditions passed down for centuries. With each tale, I felt a profound connection to my heritage, as if the very soul of Italy had awakened within me.

We ventured beyond the village, exploring ancient ruins, Roman amphitheaters, and Renaissance art. My grandparents, both full of wisdom and wonder, provided a context for the history I was witnessing. It was like stepping into a living museum, with my grandparents as the living curators.

But it wasn't just the landmarks that left an indelible mark on my soul; it was the unspoken moments, like the quiet evening strolls through vineyards with my grandparents, or the mornings spent sipping espresso in a bustling piazza. It was the feeling of belonging and being part of something much larger than myself.

As the days turned into weeks, and our time in Italy drew to a close, my heart was heavy with a profound sense of gratitude. This journey not only connected me with my roots but also strengthened the bond between me and my grandparents. We had created a treasure trove of shared memories that would last a lifetime.

Italy, with its rich history, warm people, and sumptuous cuisine, had left an indelible mark on my heart. But it was the love and wisdom of my family that illuminated the path to my past and paved the way for my future.

As we boarded the plane to return home, I knew that this trip was just the beginning of a lifelong love affair with travel!

I plan to travel to Rome in October of 2024 with my oldest son and the love of my life! We will be celebrating his 40th birthday and visiting family and friends! Looking forward to sharing that with you all!