Pratola Peligna

It was a sad farewell to Gabrielle, Paula, Marideia, Zella, and Dalia. I woke up early to feed the animals for the last time today. This morning Fantino definitely had his way with Nina. I anticipate a new donkey in 12 months. I can’t imagine that she is not pregnant after watching how the baby was consummated. I won’t go into details, but I will say that Nina seemed to enjoy it after putting up such a fuss.

The Organization for the Abruzzo Agriturisimo’s met at Tholos today. Mirta and I prepared the restaurant with Maridela and Zella. Paula had pasta (as usual) and wonderful meatballs made without meat (I am sure they are not called meatballs but looked the same). They were made with bread, eggs, parsley, and parmesan cheese. They were delicious.

Paula gave me three different kinds of flour that are made at Tholos. I am gathering baggage as I go. I also have a list of items that are a must buy before I leave in three weeks. Saying goodbye to everyone was hard. Tholos was really an adventure. To summarize the highlights:

1. I gained at least 5 lbs. (I am hoping only 5lbs) from eating all the wonderful food.
2. I wrote down as many recipes as possible but many of the ingredients will be hard to get in the U.S. ( I am already making excuses as to why my cooking didn’t improve)
3. Mirta and I had many laughs about no bathroom at night, the different orders from different family members, Nina and Fantino, the long night with the 10 kids in our house, etc…..
4. I learned how to be a waitress
5. I realized that farm life is a lot of work but very rewarding
6. I gained a new appreciation for Abruzzo and the people of Abruzzo and am proud to have this region as part of my heritage

One of the men from the meeting drove me and Mirta to Pratola Peligna, where my grandparents were raised. The drive was breathtaking with the green country side and the snow capped mountains. Abruzzo is definitely the prettiest of all the areas I have visited.

Pratola Peligna is a wonderful village imbedded in the hillside. Although it seems to be a good size village, there is only one hotel and restaurant; there are a lot of bars. After walking around this evening, I decided to stay for two nights. It will be a good place to relax and get set for my next adventure. I hope that I can find some long lost family members, although it is unlikely.

It is really hard to believe that I only have three weeks left before I return home. I am starting to pick up the language; although people that talk to me still cannot understand what I say.

Ciao for Now