When we returned to Pekľany from attending mass in Sabinov, Pavel and family already had the barbeque going. He was cooking, chicken, pork, and sausage on a big open fire pit.

Oh my gosh, it smelled so good! And, it was delicious! We had more cookies, and toasted to family with shots of slivovitz (plum brandy). We were also treated to some authentic Slovak music played by Cyril and Co. I was taking it all in–sitting in Slovakia, listening to that music and enjoying the food and drink. In my mind I was transported back in time–imagining that this must have been what it was like for my ancestors whenever they could break from working the land and doing their other chores.
Our hosts asked us to sing some “American” songs. We were at a loss. I don’t sing–can’t carry a tune to save my life so I was a bit intimidated. Unfortunately, the best Ginny and I could come up with was “On Top of Spaghetti”. They couldn’t understand the words, but clapped for us anyway. It didn’t matter though–we were with family and everyone was just enjoying the celebration.
It was a marvelous day–one I will always remember fondly.
As I went to sleep that night my mind was racing in anticipation of the next day when I would be meeting my Alzo cousins for the first time. I couldn’t wait for morning to arrive.
to be continued…
All photos by Lisa A. Alzo
Copyright 2010, Lisa A. Alzo
All rights reserved
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I love the image of you singing "On Top of Spaghetti" to your cousins! What a fabulous experience.