My brother and I were driving today taking care of some things for our father. It was one of the many car trips I’ve taken with my brother in the last few weeks. He looked at me at one point during the drive and asked me what day it was.
She smiled and said it’s normal for them to move near the end. They call it “rallying”. When their time is close they sometimes get a sudden burst of life.
Mio caro figlio amato Rosario
Honor thy father and mother
It was our way of honoring our father by bringing him back to his hometown in Sicily for his final resting place. It was always his wish to rest one day in this beautiful cemetery overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The funeral director here knew my father. He was admired by many in the town he lived in. He told us our father would be proud of us for what we were doing for him.
The view of Licata from the entrance to the cemetery.
The mass was held at a church built in the 13th century.
Just a dream
Here I am sitting next to my cousin Marisa, my brother, some other cousins and their children after the mass.
Here is me as a little girl in Sicily sitting next to my cousin Marisa, her mother Angela and some other cousins.
This is family.
That’s zia Giuseppina on the left and her son Alessio. Giuseppina was too sick to go to my father’s mass. We returned home later in the evening after eating at Alessio’s house. His sister Eleanora prepared a seafood feast that was filled with typcial dishes my dad loved. The flavors I have only ever eaten in Licata. I feel my dad was with us at the table that evening.
Here is baby me with my father and his sister Giovanna on the top balcony of the house he grew up in.
Tuo padre ancora pensava a questo moto?
Alessio and my brother choosing oranges a few weeks ago in Sicily. Alessio stopped at a vendor he goes to every week in the orange season. The blood oranges were just starting to present themselves. They were incredible. So were the tangerines.
Sweet Orange Buns
Ingredients:
Dough
1 cup whole milk
1 (1/2 ounce) envelope active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water (100 to 110 degrees)
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 1/2-5 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling
4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup orange jam
3/4 cup sugar
zest and juice of 1 orange (4 Tablespoons juice)
Orange Glaze1 cup powdered (confectioners’) sugar
4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Directions:
Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to boil. Remove from heat and let stand until cooled to room temperature. Meanwhile, sprinkle the yeast over the warm water in a large bowl.
Add 1 tablespoon of the sugar and let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Beat in the remaining 2 T sugar, eggs and butter. Beat in cooled milk. Gradually add the flour and salt, scraping down side of bowl, until a soft dough forms.
Turn dough onto a floured work surface and knead the remaining flour into the dough, adding more flour if too sticky. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. The dough will be soft.
Grease a large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and place in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 hours.
Punch down dough. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to an 18 x 12-inch rectangle. Spread the butter over the dough. Spread on the orange jam and sprinkle on the orange sugar.
Starting on one long side roll up jelly roll fashion and pinch seam to close. Cut crosswise into 12 generous 1 1/2 inch pieces.
Lift up bottom edge of dough and roll it into a log; trim ends and cut log into 12 rounds. Transfer rounds cut side up to a greased 9″ × 13″ baking dish; cover with plastic wrap. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit in a warm spot until buns double in size, about 30 to 45 minutes. You could leave in the refrigerator overnight and bake them the next morning fresh for breakfast.
Heat oven to 375°. Uncover rolls and bake until golden brown, about 25 minutes. Drizzle icing over rolls before serving
Stacy Rushton says
Oh, Lora. My heart aches for you in your difficult journey. Thank you for sharing it with us. I know, for me, writing things down usually helps to process pain. I pray that you have found some small measure of relief by sharing. And it is good to know that your own children will have a record of your family story to read some day. May you find comfort in the company of your loved ones.
babylola2u says
i'm touching reading your story. so do i now live w/o parents and i missed them every single day.
Anonymous says
Lora, what a touching, lovely post. All of the stories about your Dad, along with the photos of your Dad, you and family, past and present, is a beautiful journey you've taken us through. I'm so glad you wrote this..'and' I'm so glad you'll have this post forever in his memory. Welcome back, my friend. Now, can I have one of those gorgeous orange Morning Buns? It's morning - 3 am 'morning' - but morning, nonetheless.
BTW, you DO look like your Dad 🙂
Paula Montenegro says
Lora, the memories will stay with you and you will remember his voice and laughter, it´s a good thing you´re writing them down and I believe easing a heavy heart. The journey you took us on this post is so touching, and being able to go back to Sicily will forever be a blessing. The old pictures are wonderful and I´m glad you´re back my friend.
Lizzy Do says
Sweet Lora, your dad is now watching over you with such pride from heaven. Such a beautiful, touching post, my friend...you are blessed to be so loved. Prayers continue...
domenicacooks says
Lora, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad's about your dad's passing. It is clear that you were devoted to him and vice versa. You've written a lovely tribute. Thanks for sharing it with all of us.
Pratiba Bhat says
I truly felt each and every word you have written here. I too had a similar experience, running around in the hospital for my mother. Lost her eventually. Your post is truly a tribute to him. He'll be so proud of you.
Renee says
The love for your father and the bonds you have for your family are so evident with your post. You heartfelt words and loving thoughts are a real tribute.
Jeanette says
Oh Lora, I feel your sadness. My mother-in-law and father-in-law lived with our family until their death, and it was so hard letting them go. We learned so much about their younger lives and discovered so much about them as we talked to their friends and went through their things. We did not fully appreciate their sacrifices when we were younger, but now we understand the depth of their love. My father-in-law's death was particularly hard for my husband, and it made him "grow-up" too, as he realized he didn't had his dad to lean on anymore, and he was now taking his dad's place for our family. Time will heal, but treasure the moments now as you continue to piece together your father's legacy for you and your children. God bless you and your family.
Mardi @eatlivetravelwrite says
LOra, what a touching and beautifully written post. Your dad must have been so proud of you and I am sure he's looking down today at this post beaming with pride. XO
Faith says
What a beautiful post, Lora. It sounds like your father led a wonderful life, full of friends and loved ones, and your tribute to him is truly lovely.
My thoughts are with you and your family, my sweet friend.
Ken┃hungry rabbit says
Dear Lora, so sorry for your loss. This post is a wonderful tribute to him, your family and the love that surrounds you.
Erika says
Such a heartfelt post, your father sounds like he was a truly wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Brian @ A Thought For Food says
I'm so sorry darling... I can't imagine how difficult this must be. Your post is quite touching... one that you will look back on in the years to come. Sending you my love and thoughts.
Helene Dsouza I Masala Herb says
Lora my deepest condolences.
I can not imagine how it must have been for you the last moments, the travel, the burial... Yet you have explained it all in detail.
The dreams must have been a sign as you mentioned it.
So sorry dear Lora...
Jean says
Sweet Lora, thank you for sharing this wonderful tribute with us. I have tears in my eyes reading this--love overflows in this post and I'm sure your dad would have been so proud of how well you've shared his life, your family here. You're right...day by day. Thank you for this update. Your friends continue to think of you and your family.
Jamie says
I am so glad you wrote all of this down - this is part of healing. And remembering. And your memories are beautiful and touching and I am moved to tears. Does it get easier? No, it hasn't for me. But what gets a bit easier is talking about it, being able to focus on the good stuff, the happy memories. I am so happy your father could be buried in Italy. I am so happy that you and your brother could go, spend time there, time with the family. And the letters and photos are precious memories. My love and hugs to you, baby xoxo
BettyAnn @Mango_Queen says
What a beautiful post about your family and your poignant memories. I loved it. Made me feel like I was right there in Sicily! And I love these orange buns. I will make these for my family. Thanks for sharing your recipe and story, though filled with sadness and was heart-wrenching, it was lovely to read. Take care!
Holly @ abakershouse.com says
What a moving tribute to your father. I read every word, you took us all with you to Sicily and back again. it must have been difficult to write this but hopefully, in your father's tradition, writing letters strengthens your bond as a family. Thinking of you and wishing you well, Holly
Anonymous says
I am filled with sadness for you and your great loss. This was such a moving story Lora and a beautiful love letter to who your Dad was and how deeply he is rooted in your life. Sending hugs and prayers to you. xoxo
Lauren at Keep It Sweet says
What an incredibly beautiful post, Lora. Your family sounds like such a wonderful group of people and I'm glad you were surrounded by so many of them during such a painful time. Thinking of you!
Sunchowder says
I too have lost my parents and your story has touched me so deeply. I wish you grace and strength in the coming days.
Alice @ Hip Foodie Mom says
Lora,
my eyes are swelling up as I read this. . thank you for this beautiful, beautiful vulnerable post. Thank you for sharing this with us. . what an honor it was to read this. every word was so beautifully written. . taking it day by day seems like the best way right now. . my prayers are with you and your family. much love, alice
Karen Kerr says
Oh Lora, thank you so much for writing this touching tribute and story, (and of course you posted a recipe). While I don't know you personally, I missed you and was thinking about you. I am so sorry about your father. I am sure he is watching over you and your family right now, very proudly. Hugs.
Kristen says
This brought me to tears... as I imagine your grief at this time, I also can imagine how therapeutic it might have been for you to write this post.
Grief is such an awful thing. When my brother passed away last year, I had many conversations with my sister where we discovered things that we thought might have been just us, we were both actually experiencing. Time seemed to blur together, things just didn't matter as much.
I hate it when I know someone has to go through grief like this. My heart hurts for you.
Blessings.
Nancie McDermott says
Lora, what joy and sorrow I find in reading your passionate, vivid, precious stories of this time in your life, of your family, of your journey, and of your father. I am grateful you could gather together these words, memories, images, and ingredients for a sweet pleasure from your oven, a tribute to your father and his life on this earth. Your loss is great, your words are lovely and poignant. Take good care and know that so many people are lifted up by your words, your work, and your story of this journey.
www.you-made-that.com says
What a lovely heart felt post about your trying time. Your Dad sounds like he was a wonderful person. I'm sure he was so glad you were able to take him back home. Hope you feel better as time passes. Thank you for sharing something so personal.
Dorothy at ShockinglyDelicious says
What a moving story. You were lucky to have him, and he to have you, for so long. Best wishes as you continue on your journey...
Kate@Diethood says
Lora, I have not stopped thinking about you. I would come by just about every day in hopes to see a new recipe from you.
This post is just beautiful... I can't stop crying... I am SO sorry for your loss. Your father left quite the legacy... and as long as he is in your heart, he is alive. He may not be with you physically, but he is there, watching over you.
Sandra @Sandras Easy Cooking says
Lora, I am so sorry for your loss...and I am in tears reading your post today.
Thank you so much for sharing your story with all of us...and stay strong my friend!!!!
Nancy @ gottagetbaked says
As hard as it was for you to go through the loss of your father, I can't imagine how hard it was to relive everything by putting it into words and sharing it with us. I was in tears as I was reading this beautiful, poignant, thoughtful, heartfelt post. Your father sounds like an amazing man and he was very clearly loved by many. I'm sending you virtual hugs and best wishes as you and your family continue to deal with your loss.
Manu says
I read the full post with tears in my eyes... but also with a smile here and there, for all the beautiful memories, stories and feelings you shared with us. Thank you so much for this Lora! I just wish I could give you a hug in person! What an amazing person your father was! Be strong!!! <3
Carolyn says
Ah sweetheart. This was a hard read, but also beautiful to see and feel everything you've been through lately. Thank you for sharing and your father will be greatly missed. You are a wonderful, sweet daughter. That kind of love between parent and child never dies.
Shulie Foodwanderings says
Oh Lora, this is such an incredible tribute to your dad. Such a beautiful tale of love and family. Such an incredible relationships you and your brother forged. I am sure your dad is looking down on you both, so proud. I have been thinking of you and your bond with you dad and how hard it is to go through the day, but we all are here for you, we are just a phone call away.
Vicki @ WITK says
What a beautiful post. Thank you for sharing your stories and photographs. Best wishes for you and your family.
Laura says
Hugs. If I am crying while I read, I can only imagine how hard (and yet ultimately rewarding) this was to write. And your words about growing up resonated with me. I too am a wife and a mom, but it is true that while I have my parents there is a part of me that does not need to grow up. Those of us with parents like that are lucky, and you were obviously very lucky.
I hope to see some bundt cakes soon. 🙂
SMITH BITES says
such a beautiful, beautiful tribute to your father Lora - he is incredibly proud of you; you and your family carry on his memory Lora - what a legacy he has left, what an honor to pass this along to your own children. (((hugs))) my sweet, dear friend - you are a real treasure
Roxana | Roxana's Home Baking says
Sweet Lora, i have tears in my eyes. Thank you for sharing this tribute and your thoughts with us. I have been thinking a lot about you lately.
Your father knows he's missed and he'll watch over you and your family from up there, near the rest of his family.
Hugs to you
Addie K Martin says
I'm so sorry for your loss, Lora. You are a wonderful daughter and this is a lovely tribute to your father's memory. Wishing you peace and comfort in this time. 🙂
Kate | Food Babbles says
I am so sorry for your loss, Lora. This post is a lovely way of honoring your father, of remembering him and thank you for sharing it and him with us. It brought tears to my eyes as I read it and I loved seeing the photos of you and your family.
ImWhisper says
An incredible post thank you for sharing with your readers. I will say a prayer for you and your family when making orange sweet buns.
Blessings,Holly
Kristina @ spabettie says
oh my dear friend, I wish I could hug you right now! my heart is breaking for you, I know these feelings and yet I do not at all.
thank you so much for sharing these stories, I want to read this over again.
I have been thinking of you this entire time, sending strength and love and prayers. I am here for you - write or call anytime.
bunkycooks says
Lora, this was so touching and so beautifully written. I am literally sitting here crying and feel like I have been on this journey with you. Time does heal some of these feelings, but I know how hard it is for you right now. You know we are here for you. xoxo
Monet says
Sweet friend, my heart breaks for you and your family. Your words were so beautiful, so personal, and so heart-felt. Thank you for sharing your stories...his stories. The road to healing is long, but you've already begun. And his presence will never be far from you. These memories will infuse your days with hope, love, and gratitude. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, dear friend.
Roger P. says
Lora, as I read your article I was reminded of the love of the Italian family, especially in the homeland. I was also reminded of the problems and tensions that can occur in family. My father lost connection with his family (brothers and sisters) over what were trivial matters, in the scheme of things. Fortunately, a few years before his passing, they were able to reconcile and rebuilt.
I adore the Italian culture. Nonna is often the anchor, yet it sounds like you have many strong members in your extended family. in famiglia c'è l'amore
The Café Sucré Farine says
Lora, such a bittersweet post, I'm so sorry to hear about your father. My dad died when I was nine and life does go on but it's never quite the same, is it? He sounds like he was a very special man and you certainly have wonderful memories.
Carol | a cup of mascarpone says
Lora, this is beautiful. xox
Joan Hayes says
My heart aches for you and rejoices for you all at the same time. A journey we never want to make but the love and beauty of yours, the memories made and memories relived through stories and your family. How lucky your children are, you'll be able to share all the tradition and love and stories of an amazing man with them and in this way always keep your father a part of their hearts.
Jen Laceda | Tartine and Apron Strings says
Lora, this is a beautiful tribute to your dad! He is smiling from above, I a sure! You know what, I heard somewhere that the only time we really "grow up" to become adults is when our parents die - because then, we do not have anyone older to rely on for wisdom and experience. We become the adults now...! Strange, that many people who have lost parents have said this.
My thoughts are with you and your lovely family...
Erin @ Dinners, Dishes, and Desserts says
Lora, this is such a wonderful post. Your dad sounds like he was a wonderful man, and loved by so many! I am glad you got to go to Italy, and fulfill your dads wishes. I am so sorry for your loss!
Sue says
Lora, My heart goes out to you. This post is a treasure to save forever! XO!
Lisa {Authentic Suburban Gourmet } says
What a beautiful post! Such a heartfelt tribute to your Dad. He sounds like a great father and will always be in your heart and watching over you. (The orange sweet buns look delish)
Erin D. says
This is my first visit to your blog and I have tears welling up. It was such a beautiful tribute... I'm speechless. I've had this post open for a while but just can't think of anything that really conveys what I'm feeling. I'm so sorry and my thoughts are with you.
Paula says
Lora, my heart goes out to you and your family. To have shared this post with all of us was a very generous thing and I am grateful that you chose to do so.
God bless you and your family and may the memories of your beloved father soon bring much joy and laughter. Know that you and your brother and your children are your father's greatest legacy. His must be so proud of you all.
Patty says
Lora, this is such a touching post and a wonderful way to honor your father. I'm sure he would be so proud;) Your sweet orange buns would be so good with my morning coffee-thanks for sharing;)