Dinner with Mara and Valerio

US Journal

Oct. 20, 2014

Dinner with Mara and Valerio

It’s very interesting how a small idea can turn into a big plan, all in one night. I knew that Valerio and Mara only had one day each week off, so I suggested that we get together on Monday night, and Mara turned it into a lovely invitation to dinner in their wonderful home. Monica was with me when they invited us, and Mara wanted to include Monica in the invitation. Then, a few days later, I received an email from Mara saying that Ricardo, Lella and their twin daughters, all of whom were present the last time we were invited by Mara and Valerio to have supper in their home, asked if they could join us. What another great idea!

Our delicious 4-course meal made a perfect venue for speaking English and Italian, getting caught up with each other and…this is very important…planning for the twins and Giovani to visit Monica and us in Atlanta next Summer!!! What a delightful idea. Plus, Giovani thought it would be fun to have his good friend Philipe to come along, so now there are 4. Monica and I stopped by the Pasta shop the next day, and Mara verified that all 4 of the young people were very excited about this adventure. We’re excited about their visit, too.

Then it occurred to me that there was really no reason to leave out Valerio, Mara and Alberto, so I put some pressure on Valerio to think about a trip to Atlanta for all of them some time soon. How’s that for more good news!?

Thank you so very much, Mara and Valerio for sharing your home, wonderful meal, family and friends with us! You are truly dear friends. We’re looking forward to hosting you and all of the young people! Oh, please bring with you Ricardo and Lella!

A presto!

Colleen