Ciao a tutti! This month has been a whirlwind of chaos, joy, and snow. It all started with the typical holiday madness shopping for gifts, wrapping presents and packaging at the last minute like always. Milano looked stunning with its Christmas lights and markets, but navigating through the crowds? Not so much. Let’s just say my holiday spirit was tested more than once. But it was worth it in the end.

Work threw in a little holiday cheer with a Buon Natale dinner. We got cute bracelets, and a nice dinner and the company made it a cozy evening and even it’s bittersweet knowing that this chapter of my life is wrapping up soon.

The Warmest Welcome

The highlight of the month? Going home. Nothing beats being back with family, especially after being away for so long. My mom, who’s had a tough year, seemed happier and lighter with me around. It was like a little piece of her old self came back. Even my brother, who usually keeps his feelings on ice, showed some unexpected warmth. 

Christmas Eve and morning were all about reconnecting. I split my time between my parents, which added a special touch to the holiday. One of my favorite moments was seeing my dad hunt for his hidden gift. Our family tradition of hiding presents never gets old and watching him search high and low while I laughed was priceless.

Friends and New Year’s Laughs

The holiday season also gave me a chance to reconnect with friends. Between catching up, celebrating birthdays, and laughing over Italian drama, my heart felt full. No snow on Christmas was a bit of a letdown, but Mother Nature decided to keep the snow for later. But hey, the holiday spirit was strong.

Then came New Year’s Eve, and finally SNOW! The timing was perfect. Our family traditions kicked off with karaoke, board games that had us crying with laughter (seriously, meme games are the way to go). We roasted marshmallows, and of course, the famous twelve grapes tradition almost turned into a survival challenge. This year’s version came with a plot twist. One of us only had ten grapes and went into full panic mode yelling, “I’M SHORT TWO GRAPES!” Honestly, I laughed so hard I almost choked on mine. Definitely a memory to start 2025 on a high note!

Reflecting on 2024: Adventures and Promises

As the snow fell outside, I had some time to think about the year. What a wild ride it’s been.  I can’t believe that in only 12 months I made around 35 destinations, 25 flights, and even moved abroad to another country. 

Looking back, it feels like I lived a dream. Doing this project was the best decision I’ve ever made, but being back with my family reminded me how much I missed them.

For me, 2024 was an adventure of a lifetime, a year of meeting amazing people, making unforgettable memories and self-growth but for my family, it wasn’t the easiest year. That’s why being with them now felt extra special, like the perfect way to wrap up the year and bring some light to theirs.

And now, a little confession: I promised my mom I will cut down on traveling next year. She laughed and said, “Let’s see how long that lasts.” Touché, Mom.

Closing This Chapter

With December ending, I can feel the end of this project drawing near. It’s a mix of emotions, sadness to leave this incredible journey, but excitement for what’s next. My next blog will be the final one because it’s almost time for me to pack up and head home.

So, stay tuned for one last update as I close this unforgettable chapter. Until then, grazie for following along, and BUON ANNO! 🎉