via Maniago 89b

my last full day in Italy passed quickly. I spent the morning with Max, who drove me to visit mum’s cousin Emmanuele. he’d written a new book which he gave me a copy of to bring back home. ‘tempo al tempo’. he explained it to me as a play about time. I doubt I’ll ever escape clocks, though I’m still excited to read it.

it was Max and Valeria’s 30th wedding anniversary. a surreal thought that mum and dad were here thirty years ago celebrating years before my world began. we drove to Valvasone, where Max bought flowers and a jar of nutella for Valeria. I enjoyed leftovers of Max’s amazing eggplant parmigiana before riding the bike one last time. stopping to find my nonno’s name at the cemetery, I was left somewhat speechless. everywhere I looked I saw the surnames of my grandparents (D’Andrea and Fornasier) which seemed to take up at least half of the cemetery. I wandered for a while and tried to find names I recognised. the chapel had a lovely mosaic which reminded me of the story of Veronica.

I bought postcards and started writing to my nonnas. Max and Valeria prepared a total feast, using the grill room downstairs which I’d not set foot in for over twelve years. Zia Rosana and Zio Chelso joined us, and Rosana brought an incredible tirimisu. Domenica and Ezio also swung by to wish Max and Vale congratulations.

I drew Max, Vale, Giulia and Danilo after dinner. I’ve written a goodbye/thank you, though I’m sad to be leaving and wish our worlds were not so far apart.

waking early to say goodbye to Danilo and Giulia before work. I’ve been so lucky here. <<