My adventure in New Orleans began with attending the yearly Cefalutana Society gathering (aka Societa’ Italiana di Mutua Beneficenza Cefalutana) that was organized in 1887 by immigrants and their descendants from Cefalu, Sicily. Joyfully, it turned out to be a family reunion Italian style. I reunited with my cousins and family members, some of which I had not seen in 30 years. We celebrated our families and memories that we all share especially for those who are no longer with us.
EAT. One of my favorite memories as a little girl was enjoying the Italian pastries with my family brought from Brocato’s in New Orleans for Christmas and Thanksgiving. The best Cannolis and Cassata Cake anywhere around!
PRAY. Before our big event on Sunday,we celebrated mass together again as a family at the St.Louis Cathedral located in Jackson Square. This brought back comforting childhood memories of big Italian weddings and Sunday Mass with my family in Greenville, MS.
LOVE. Although many years had passed since we have all gathered together as a family it
did not take long for us to feel an instant familiarity with each of us. Listening and laughing to stories of the past about our childhood and our parents were priceless.
We have all been brought closer by our family tree that grew from the love of our grandparents in July 1914 in Cefalu, Sicily.
I must admit that before this trip, I had almost forgotten that unique part of me; my Sicilian heritage. I am looking forward to enjoying my renewed connection with my Sicilian roots to follow and honor my inner wine spirit ( that I am sure that was given to me from my ancestors) while exploring my passion for wine,food and fun!