We had hardly been back on the ship a few moments when Joel told me that he was definitely coming back. I asked if he meant Sicily? To which he replied “ITALY!” There’s something intoxicating about being in this place. The streets, the music, the people. At lunch, Grayson said “man, Italians are put together, look at their style!” (to which I agreed, and asked him if he’d seen any Italians in Jorts…not my favorite look on my son!). One of my closest friends is Italian, and we all agreed that she would fit right in!
Thanksgiving morning, we stepped onto the dock and began our walk to the Ballero’ Market. It was about a 30 minute walk from the pier, but a pretty easy walk as we took in all the sights and sounds of Palermo, Sicily.
I do have to say, that my idea of an “easy” walk, isn’t necessarily shared by everyone in our family. My answer: “it’s just a bit farther” is no longer acceptable, and “how many minutes?” is the newest question I am asked.
Arriving at Ballero’ Market, the colors and smells of fresh fruit, seafood, and cooking spices, filled our senses, with people all around yelling in Italian. Not what I envisioned when we set out for this street market, but definitely worth the visit. It was like Pike’s Place but under popups, without tourists (except us, of course)!
After such a long stroll to the market, we found a small Italian Cafe with cannoli, pastries and espresso, so we of course had to stop and try some. It was all incredible…though my attempt at ordering a cafe’ latte without speaking any Italian, awarded me both a latte and an espresso (Grayson decided to drink the espresso).
As soon as we finished, we were back out on the street and headed toward the Palermo Cathedral, but were drawn a bit off-track by the sound of a man singing opera in a plaza, which then drew us into an ancient church. Ellanora was quite confused by the height of the arm rests, and I had no answers as to why they were the way they were.
We soon found the cathedral we had been looking for, which included a trip to the crypt under the church and the roof, with incredible views of Sicily.
Following our cathedral exploration, we wandered down a street and lunch was Sicilian pizza followed by dress shopping (she looks beautiful in her dress)!
Making our way back to the ship, we were taken with Sicily, the Italians, the food, and the city streets…though Ellanora was a bit disappointed when my negotiation skills were put to the test and a man wanted 60 Euros for a one mile trip back to the Port in a horse-drawn carriage. I held firm at $40 U.S., and we walked. I guess we’ll have to wait for Leavenworth this Christmas to take that carriage ride.
Once back on the ship, we dressed and made our way to the Japanese steakhouse on board for a special Thanksgiving dinner, though the kids all noted a slight bit of sadness in the lack of football, turkey, and family. We all agreed that we want to stay close to home and family for Christmas.
Wrapping up Thanksgiving, we made a toast to Jill. Watching these three kids interact with each other, love each other, laugh together and play together, fills me completely. Yes, there have been arguments, silence, frustration and tears, but these moments have paled in comparison to the rest. As a parent, I love having kids who love each other (and like being with me!). I’m thankful this Thanksgiving for my wife, who gave me these beautiful people, and for each of my kids, who inspire me to be more.
Learning to Move Through the World 