Carlone, Dad, and Carletto, the three cousins. Since cousins often have the same name, one must devise a way to keep them straight. Hence, “Carlone“ - big Carlo and “Carletto“ - little Carlo, obviously having nothing to do with height. Speaking of, Dad wants me to point out that at 5′6″ he is the tall one.
The three cousins inspecting the “orta” – vegetable garden.
Carletto, Dad, and Carlone admiring the monster flowers “Cock’s Comb.”
Mom, Angelina, Carlone, Carletto, Giuseppina, and Dad. The bottle in the center of the table is genepe’, a 40% alcohol liquore made from the distillation of fragrant flowers found high in the mountains.
Angelina (Carlone’s wife) with one of her “Cock’s Comb” flowers. She cut this one, carefully sprayed it with hairspray to preserve it, and proudly gave it to me bring home to California. I didn’t have the heart to tell her US Customs would have shackled me had I waltzed through airport inspections with it. Although I had to leave it behind, I still enjoyed it’s vibrant splash of magenta each day.
Me, Angelina, Carlone, Dad, Giuseppina, Carletto, Dirce, and Mom, happy to all see each other after three years.
Carletto and Dad discussing the finer techniques of gardening.
Dad and Carletto. Dad’s the tall one, remember?
This woman is not a relative, but she boasted to serve the best cappuccino in Angera…she was right!
Maria Giuditta and Maria Luisa, mother and sister of Gianni. Maria Giuditta could win the Iron Chef competition with one hand tied behind her back.
