This past summer, my family traveled to Italy for what became more than a vacation. It was a way to honor my mother-in-law’s memory and, ultimately, a celebration of life. Just months after her passing, my husband, son, brother, his girlfriend, brother-in-law, and his girlfriend set out on a journey she would have loved—seeking joy and inspiration in Italy’s welcoming culture.
We began in Rome, a city where history feels alive. From there, we traveled by train to Florence, returned to Rome, and ended our trip on the Amalfi Coast, staying in the charming town of Vico Equense. Along the way, we experienced the Italians’ distinctive approach to life—a slower, more deliberate pace that reminded us to savor life’s simplest pleasures.
In Italy, life is lived with intention. Shops closed for long afternoon breaks—a tradition that surprised us at first. But as we adjusted, we began to see its wisdom. Italians prioritize rest, connection, and balance—values my mother-in-law always encouraged.
In Florence, we dined at Buco Mario, a historic restaurant that has been serving traditional meals for over a century. The atmosphere, steeped in history, reminded me of her love for family gatherings. Sharing pasta and laughter with my family there felt like a quiet way to honor her and a reminder of how food and togetherness can make any moment special.
In Vico Equense, we discovered Gelateria Gabriele, a small shop crafting gelato for over a hundred years. Every scoop was a testament to dedication and craftsmanship—a small but joyful celebration of life itself.
Our time on the Amalfi Coast highlighted Italians’ deep ties to their roots. In Sorrento, we dined at Spizzichi-AMO, where the chef personally introduced each dish, including bacon sourced from his father’s farm. His pride in his family’s contributions to the meal was infectious, making the experience even more memorable. It was a beautiful reminder of how Italians honor their heritage and relationships through food.
Even rainy weather couldn’t diminish the magic of our boat tour along the Amalfi Coast. Our crew, Giuseppe and Pasquale, infused the day with humor, warmth, and pride for their region. They shared stories of growing up by the sea, pointed out landmarks, and turned what could have been a disappointing day into one of the trip’s highlights.
The rugged beauty of Positano and the sparkling waters of the Amalfi Coast were breathtaking, but it was Giuseppe and Pasquale’s passion and enthusiasm that truly made the experience unforgettable. They embodied the Italian spirit of finding joy in every moment.
One evening in Vico Equense, we heard a small crowd singing Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” outside a café. The sound of voices—some in harmony, others not— floated through the cobblestone streets. That song had been a highlight of my mother-in-law’s celebration of life just months before, and hearing it again in that little Italian town felt like a sign, a reminder of her enduring presence and the universal nature of joy.
As we moved from city to city, I saw Italy not just as a collection of famous landmarks but as a reminder to celebrate every day. Italians find joy in life’s small rituals— morning cappuccinos, family dinners, shared laughter, and even unexpected rainstorms.
This trip was more than a journey; it was a lesson in cherishing the present and finding inspiration, even in the face of loss. It reminded us that while we miss my mother-in-law deeply, her spirit lives on in the moments of connection and celebration we create.
Our adventure left us with not only beautiful memories but also a renewed appreciation for life’s quiet joys—a gift my mother-in-law would have treasured.
The Design Team
Hollis Interiors
hollisinterior.com
Wendy Dean
Whitson Modular Home Builders
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