The Italian lifestyle is something I’ve always been curious about. After having travelled to Italy, I can definitely say it’s so easy to love this beautiful country.
Spotting this book sparked that joy I celebrate when I think about Italy. I thought I’d share some key takeaways from this fabulous book, Nonna Knows Best by Jaclyn Crupi, with beautiful illustrations by Felicita Sala.
1. Air dry clothes more often.
It’s surprising how much we rely on washing machines when we’ve got a natural bacteria-killing clothes refresher outside our houses. Rather than consistently wash clothes (and furthermore, have them deteriorate quicker), practice air drying. This is a great idea if it’s not a washing day or you don’t have enough clothes for a washing cycle. Why not air some of your clothes outside and allow the air and sun to refresh them? Thank you, Nonna!
2. Don’t rush through cooking like it’s a chore—enjoy it.
I remember reading a meme that said the best thing you learn in your thirties is that there will be dishes again tomorrow. Once you complete the dishes, it’s easy to think that you’ll never let it get out of control again, and in future, you won’t have as many dirty dishes as the amount you’ve just cleaned. But guess what? You will. It was liberating reading this thought about not rushing through cooking like it’s a chore but enjoying it because I think the same is true for other kitchen-related activities like washing dishes. Anything in the kitchen can be an act of love. It can also be a gift to ourselves—quiet time to still our minds and create room for creative thinking.
As we cook, clean and wash up, let’s learn to love it and infuse our cooking with that love. We all know what a meal made with love tastes like. It’s the best. Take time with meal prep—the end results can bring so much joy to others. See it as an act of love to your family and friends.
3. Always find an opportunity to gather loved ones for a meal.
There’s always a reason to gather for a delicious meal—even if you can’t think of one right now, why not take the weekend as a cause for celebration? Whether it’s a family birthday, a celebration of the weekend ahead, or a chance to share with others a new recipe, take the opportunity to gather with loved ones for meals. These are life’s most precious moments. We don’t always remember everything about our lives, but we often remember times at the dinner table. Moments of communion, laughing, celebrating and feasting.
Nonna’s are passionate—about their family and food. Food is how many of us express love. We chat, laugh, cry and do all these over meals. Take heed to Nonna’s advice for regular gathering, and prepare a delicious meal infused with love, and cherish all your moments with your family.
4. Olive oil is for more than cooking.
It’s no secret that Italy is home to amazing olive oil. It’s not just amazing for cooking—Italians use it as a beauty hack! It’s fantastic to hear about ways to simplify our beauty routine using inexpensive things we all have in our pantries.
Olive oil can be used as a hand exfoliator (just add in some chunks of salt); it’s a great body moisturiser too! No wonder the Italians seem to carry a beautiful glow! Next time your skin feels dry, get some olive oil out of the pantry and give it a go.
The Editing Eagle 