And just like that, the Christmas holidays have come to an end! It’s always a bittersweet feeling when the festive season wraps up, and this year was no different. It feels like only yesterday that I was wrapping up presents and preparing for the festivities. But now, the celebrations are over, and it’s time to look back on the precious moments spent with loved ones.
This Christmas, I had the joy of returning home to Puglia, where my family was waiting to welcome me with open arms. There’s something truly magical about coming back home after being away for a while, especially at Christmas time. It’s the one occasion of the year when everyone, no matter how far apart we might be, comes together. It’s the highlight of my year, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What made this year even more special was spending time with my nieces, who seem to grow up faster with each passing year. It’s hard to believe how much they’ve changed since I last saw them. It’s moments like these that remind me how precious time is, and how important it is to savour every second spent with family.
This year, we decided to make orecchiette together with some Ragu sauce (how cliché for an Italian!). Orecchiette are the little “ears” of pasta that are such a staple in Puglian cuisine, and what better way to embrace the traditions of home than by making them ourselves? And yes, we paired it with a rich, hearty ragu sauce—another classic!
The kitchen was a mess, but it was full of laughter as we shaped the dough into small, ear-like pieces. My nieces were so excited to learn, even if their orecchiette didn’t quite look perfect!
Afterwards, we all sat down to enjoy the meal we’d made together. The delicious food and the sound of my family chatting made me realize how lucky I was to be there. These moments—simple, cosy and full of love—remind me that no matter where I am in the world, this time with my family is what I cherish the most.