A photo taken with Nanna Francesca at my first big Italian wedding in the 1970s. (The reception venue of the day complete with champagne glass tower, doves, smoke machine and parquetry dance floor to slide across later on!)
I have to laugh seeing Nanna Francesca and me dressed uncannily unlike here. 👀 By the time I was in my teenage years, this would’ve driven me crazy! 😄 In a way I had to come full circle over the years in my relationship with Nanna Francesca. From the comfort of her tucking me in bed (very tight!) when I stayed over and the joy of her taking me to the ‘pictures’ (where she talked loud!) – to when I was a teen fighting against her traditional, often restrictive, ways (and strong advice!) – to later, when I’d grown up, truly appreciating her.
Only then did I fully realise how tough life had been on her at times – the early griefs, sacrifices and stoic endurance that made her who she was. She gave me a love of cooking, her mother’s embroidered linens and many items for my ‘Glory box’. She also gave me true unconditional love and that is so precious to receive, for it stays with you.
Happy Mother’s day to all the mums and tight hugs to those missing their mums, grandmothers and mother figures no longer with us but whose part in our lives keeps on giving richness and love in all that they gave. Much love! Zoë x
Zoë Boccabella 
Thank you for sharing family stories and observations of moments in time. I grew up with a grandmother who I adored and spent many wonderful years with her. My grandparents came to America from Italy and your newsletters remind me of special experiences and advice they shared as they worked to have their family assimilate. At 93, my Mom lives on her own in the house we grew up in. Cheers to mothers and our Italian heritage.
Hello Susan, it’s so lovely to receive your message, thank you for your kind words! How wonderful that you grew up with and had many wonderful years with your grandmother. ❤️ Grandparent relationships are truly very special. And yes, there are so many similarities with our Italian migration stories, whether in America, Australia or other areas. We’re so blessed to have this heritage and these strong women in our lives. That is so fantastic that your mother at 93 lives alone in the family house still – brava!! Kindest wishes to her and to you too! Zoe x