March 28, 2016

Pasquetta – Little Easter 2016

In commemoration of the risen Christ's meeting (and subsequent dinner) with his disciples on the road to Emmaus, a small town outside Jerusalem, southern Italians celebrate Pasquetta, or Little Easter. Traditionally, family and friends would pack a lunch and take a short trip to the shore or countryside in remembrance of Christ’s journey. Because Easter Monday is not a national holiday here in the States and people have to work, its not always easy to organize a group outing. Nonetheless, I still try to keep the tradition whenever possible, even if it is by myself. Not letting the dreary weather deter me, I filled my picnic basket with a few Easter leftovers, some light reading material, and my sketchpad (in case inspiration strikes), and headed off to a dry, peaceful location to reflect on my many, many blessings. Buona Pasquetta!