Mondays with Mama - Merry Christmas from my family to yours!

One of my family’s most beloved traditions is decorating the Christmas tree together. This year was especially wonderful because Daniella was finally home after studying abroad in Italy. We are so happy to have her back in time for Christmas.

Each Christmas, we make sure to take time to decorate and cook with each other. Daniella helps me with the tree, while Anthony and Danilo hang the wreaths and outdoor lights. We all celebrate our work with a family dinner to truly awaken the Christmas spirit. We have an Italian tradition called the feast of seven fishes on Christmas Eve and then we go to Christmas Eve Mass. On Christmas morning, after opening presents, we have breakfast made by Anthony and Daniella. Later that evening after dinner we all enjoy some eggnog and panettone (a traditional Italian Christmas cake) around the fire.

The holiday season is such a wonderful time to celebrate with friends and family, but it’s easy to see how people get stressed about getting things checked off their list – making sure presents are wrapped, the house is decorated and all the new recipes you’ve been wanting to try are baked and ready for delivery to your neighbors and friends. Many of us can get caught up in the hustle and bustle of it all, but I encourage you to step back and think about ways to focus on what’s important. Remember that this season is about family and being thankful for the blessings in our lives. I am so thankful for my family and getting to spend each day working alongside them. Take a moment to reflect on your blessings, too!

Ci vediamo presto and Buon Natale!

Anna