American Italian BBQ

The Pozza Family

So, what kind of a menu do you plan when Brenda's foreign exchange student from Milan, Italy has her parents come visit for the weekend? Well, of course, a good ole' American BBQ! We had a beautiful cool and wind-free day to enjoy the fresh green outdoor plants, fire up the BBQ grills - plural that is - as well as light the fire pit.

A Special Treat From Italy

Erica's parents brought over a traditional cake from Italy for the picnic - my goal was to save the box and translate it (which I forgot to do), but I can tell you that it was light and had almond flavoring it it - very yummy!

Erica and her Mom Luisa

Erica was so excited for her parents to meet her American family and their friends - they couldn't stop smiling all night. And I'm pretty sure Mom has really missed her daughter.

Erica's Dad Maurizio Doing What He Does Best

Erica laughingly said her Dad has no problems making friends and most of the photos I found of him were talking to all of the guests at the party. Here he is teaching Derek a thing or two, probably about the difference in American and Italian "football".

No Shortage of Meat

The main course consisted of American burgers (although I did add in garlic, parsley and parmesan cheese), lots of cheese topping options, grilled chicken with seasonings and Italian sausages (which I'm pretty sure they don't actually have in Italy the way we have them here).

Gathering Around For the Feast

There was definitely no shortage of food and I'm sure Erica's parents now know why Americans have a reputation for obesity. However, we had some healthy things too -- like grilled asparagus and fresh fruit -- to go with the more traditional chips/dip, desserts, potato salad and baked beans. The "beverage" area isn't pictured, but Erica's Mom went straight for the one Italian red wine we had. Dad went straight for the KC brewed Boulevard Beer.

The American and Italian Family

Erica pictured with her Mom, Dad and Brenda Poor, her host family for this school year. Erica has been a blessing for Brenda and all of us that have gotten to know her. While she will be graduating from Shawnee Mission Northwest this year, she actually goes back to Italy for her 5th year next year and will get to do graduation all over again with her Italian friends. While here, she's been a member of the swim team and tried the American traditions of homecoming, road trips with girlfriends, and just recently prom.

Finishing with a True American Tradition

We couldn't finish the evening, without giving them the experience of roasting s'mores. Everyone else was too full by then to even think about more food, but they had fun making a sticky mess and going home smelling like a campfire. I'm so glad Brenda asked to have the party at my house because now I have friends in Milan to go and visit on my next trip to Italy!