Arrivederci Italia!

Well the trip has come to an end and by now the group is sleeping in their hotel near the Roma Airport. They will awake early and head off to the airport for their 11 am flight back to the States.

There were so many memorable moments and both families on this trip, Fragassi and Di Lauro took some time to recap this evening. They bought some antipasti items and shared the wines from Peppe Zullo as they shared their insights.

Obviously, the chance to meet and renew Italian Family ties left a large impression. Both families embraced the group with open arms and rolled out the red carpet so to speak. The hospitality given really did warm hearts and force us to rethink what family means. Family is a strong bond of our roots, our traditions, our laughter, our tears and our love. To share this among friends is a gift and everyone in the group felt as if they were bestowed an amazing gift to be cherished.

Another large part of this trip was the food. Every meal was an experience and an opportunity to learn more of the land, the people and history of Italy. The food tells a story, it makes a journey to the plate every meal. There were so many tasty dishes and La Campagna will try to recreate and add a few new items to their own repertoire!




The last major factor of this trip is the documentary. If Mike Di Lauro wasn't making his film, this trip would not exist. There were many interviews in various locations pertaining to the Shepherd. What it means to live that life and work the land with the animals. They were lucky to partake in a festival, meet shepherds of all ages and they were blessed to have a musician spend time with them who has embraced the music of the Shepherd. This musician, MICHELE AVOLIO, was kind enough to spend much time sharing his impressions and experiences. You can learn more of his band and mission here. (Carmella has a limited number of CDs that will be for sale in the restaurant. They will be selling for $24.99).

There were others who made an impression along the way. Peppe Zullo, Massimo and Antonello, the Phillipino woman whose grandmother is still alive at 155, the lonely Shepherd at the festival who grabbed Carmella's attention... so many lovely people who opened their hearts to the group and made them feel at home.

Lets not forget the scenery, the country the Campagna! The were winding roads, olive groves, homes older than our country, roman walls, castles, mountain vistas, fountains, and the hole made by a WWII bomb, still untouched! The country is a character in and of itself. Its beauty lures you in and leaves an impression that is unshakable.

Italia is a beautiful country, a warm people and a festive table. It blends all things together to form La Dolce Vita, the good life. We hope to inspire you to take your own journey, but until then, come to La Campagna and we will do our best to share our Italy with you!

- Also check back often to see when the documentary will be available!