My experience growing up in an Italian household defies all of the stereotypes you hear about within the media. Italians are portrayed as loud, extroverted, plump and unreserved people with large families. My story is quite different. Family gatherings are small, never quite reaching over 10 people. Although we are still outgoing, and of course love to eat, the vast majority of my family lives in a small town in the marvellous country of Italy. Visiting my many aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents is what gives a special meaning to the old country. Family gatherings reach nearly hundreds of people, most of whose names I do not know. If it were not for my loving Italian family, Italy would not hold as much meaning in my heart as it does
