Chiavari by the Sea
Capodanno. What does it mean? It’s the Italian term for New Year’s Eve. As has become tradition, I spent this special night in Italy. This year, I decided to welcome the countdown to 2024 alone at home. With the sea nearby, I could see and hear the fireworks as they celebrated the arrival of the new year, offering many a chance for a fresh start.
The firecrackers began around 8 PM. I had just returned from an enjoyable evening aperitivo by the sea. Feeling relaxed and happy, I couldn’t help but flinch at the sound of those explosions. To diminish the noise, I closed my taparrelle—my insulating blinds. I needed some time to reflect.
2023 was a year of extremes for me—filled with both great highs and challenging lows. The contrast of experiences brought a rich tapestry of emotions and sights. The image below encapsulates what 2023 meant to me.
An antique ship moored in the harbor of Genoa, adjacent to modern vehicles.
Lost in contemplation, I reminisced about various contrasts throughout the year. I organized and led my very first tour in Liguria, taking travelers to hidden gems that many Americans have never experienced. We ventured off the beaten path, meeting locals who warmly welcomed us.
Here’s my group in the hills above Imperia, where we met Cristina Armato and her family. She is an award-winning olive oil producer, and her entire family graciously hosted us for an afternoon filled with delicious food and wonderful conversations.
As we walked along ancient paths, locals accompanied us as if we were celebrities. They took immense pride in their small towns and were eager to share their way of life.
We ventured into the mountains and explored the acclaimed town of the witches, renowned for its breathtaking views and even better cuisine.
Views from Triora—the famed town of the witches.
Dolceacqua quickly became one of my favorites.
Apart from the tour, I developed several travel plans for a diverse clientele. Some sought experiences all over Italy, while others yearned to connect with their ancestral roots or visit popular tourist attractions. Helping Italian-Americans walk the streets of their heritage has profoundly impacted my own life. Although the work is more complex than my usual itineraries, it feeds my soul. One family even retraced the old path to the sea from the hills in Liguria, where their parents grew up.
2023 also saw me spend nearly three months in North America. My father celebrated his 99th birthday in July, and my daughters visited Minnesota to connect with family. I can never get enough of them.
Here’s my lovely daughter Stephanie with my brother Joe on the 4th of July.
We also carved out a few days to drive and visit our Italian-Canadian cousins in Ontario, Canada.
Pictured above are my Canadian cousin Ronnie and my sister Patrice.
Here are my daughter and granddaughter with my wonderful cousin Sandra, Ronnie’s mom. This family has played a crucial role in shaping my life with their examples that expanded my perspective beyond my hometown. Growing up, I spent considerable time with them. My daughter adored them, but Maggie had never met them until this trip, and she fell for them just as hard.
We returned to Minnesota just in time for my father’s 99th birthday. He remains physically fit, still able to sing and dance, though his dementia is progressing gradually.
Here I am with my Papa, reminiscing over Ricci family photos together.
I had the opportunity to reconnect with some of my 32 Ricci first cousins.
Above, I’m spending time with my big brother Jim.
Here I am with my cousins Janet and Kathy. We have shared a bond akin to sisterhood throughout our lives, even attending school together. I was always the free spirit among us!
My cousin Roger and his wife Peg (above) visited me in Livorno last year during a Mediterranean cruise. This year, they met up with me at the Mall of America, as they live in Wisconsin—a delightful surprise!
This past year also brought heartache; I lost one of my last musician friends. Those of us remaining in the industry have taken it particularly hard. I cherished the moments I shared with Carl Bradley and his vibrant, eccentric lifestyle. Our musical subculture differed significantly from what is deemed “normal,” allowing us to live authentically—albeit often at a high cost. Yet, we never judged one another. With the musicians I performed alongside, I truly felt at home. Typically, I catch up with my old drummer and dear friend Gary during my visits to Minnesota. This year, after Carl’s passing, Gary and I decided to attend a show by another mutual friend, Larry, and his jazz band in Minneapolis. Gary’s wife suggested we needed a ‘date night.’ It filled my heart with joy seeing them again.
Pictured: Gary on the left, me in the center, and Larry with the tie. It was wonderful to see you both—let’s make plans to do this again next year!
After spending so much time in solitude, I finally opened my large balcony doors for the midnight celebrations. A mesmerizing display of fireworks lit up the sky above the sea. I adore the sight of fireworks, though the loud blasts can be jarring. Still, it was heartwarming to see neighbors gathering on their balconies, exchanging greetings under the twinkling lights. “Auguri!” we cheered to one another. It means “Best Wishes.” There’s hope in their greetings, a shared joy as we embraced the arrival of the new year, and a sense of wonder about what 2024 may hold for us all.
For me, my plans include more travel throughout Italy, sharing those experiences with all of you. I also expect to be in the USA again this summer and into October—after all, I want to celebrate my father’s potential 100th birthday with a big party. I look forward to spending more time with my daughters and reconnecting with cousins and siblings I missed during my last trip. So far, I’m piecing together four different travel plans for 2024. However, as it is still the festive season in Italy, I’m taking my time to soak in the joyous atmosphere.
Yes, Italy is still in celebration mode. Tonight is the 5th of January, marking the arrival of La Befana. Above, she’s seen soaring over Italy, delivering treats to children. As they awaken on January 6th, they will discover either their shoes or stockings stuffed with goodies. If they’ve been good, they receive candy; if not, they find coal—though it’s candy that looks like coal!
Italians enjoy this festive season for an entire month. The visit from the witch symbolizes the conclusion of the celebrations. Truly, Italians know how to embrace joy!
Perhaps next year, you’ll consider joining us in Italy. Many overlook winter travel to Italy, unless they’re skiers. However, this time of year is truly magical, snow or not.
Stay tuned to see what unfolds in 2024. May there be peace on Earth, starting with me.
A dopo!
