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Buona Befana

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According to Italian folklore, Befana is a woman on a broomstick, enticed by gifts of wine, who brings treats for all the girls and boys on the eve of the Epiphany. A baking, tipsy witch. Sounds like my kinda gal.

Generally my boys receive books that align with their interests on December 25th, and, usually, what they ask for from Santa. This year Riley wanted binoculars for whale watching while Dylan wanted an old-fashioned calligraphy pen. They received a few puzzles and games that we can play as a family as well. But we reserve the fun toys for January 6th...from Befana. You know those toys you trip over in the middle of the night and curse all the little pieces. Each and every one of them.

So to usher in the Epiphany, and because I'll use any excuse to whip up something out of the ordinary, we have a Feast of Befana. So, tonight I'll be making acquacotta (literally "cooked water") and fennel biscuits. Recipes and photos to come.

Buona Befana!
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