The city of Napoli has offered the world many gastronomical triumphs that the term “Cucina Napoletana” refers not only to the city of Naples proper, but of the entire region of Campania itself. The UNESCO protected art of pizza-making is what Neapolitans are most known for, but truth be told, that’s just the tip of the culinary iceberg that this ancient metropolis has to offer.

April is National Poetry Month in the United States. Lately I've had more time on my hands to enjoy the work of my favorite poets, like Pablo Neruda. Just the other day I remembered how he referred to the island of Capri as "The Pearl of the Mediterranean" and without even leaving my kitchen, I was able to re-live all of its splendor.

As a young girl, attending the Easter Mass, festivals, and ceremonies at our town's Greek Orthodox Church was the highlight of my social calendar. At midnight during the Easter Mass, we always say “Christos Anesti ("Χριστός ἀνέστη!" - "Christ is Risen!" in Greek) to fellow attendees – and they always respond with: “Alithos Anesti” (Aληθώς ανέστη!) which means “truly he has risen.”

Then we would go home and eat sweet breads and pastries – and the next day, on Easter Sunday, we would have our feast.

"Buon vino, tavola lunga" is an old Italian adage meaning that people are always willing to come to the table when the wine is good. Tonight's wine dinner at Stellina Pizzeria (Washingtonian's 100 Very Best Restaurants Thrillist "DC's Best New Restaurants 2019, Michelin Guide Bib Gourmands) featured Sicilian wines from Firriato which were exceptional.

Living a healthier lifestyle is on the top of most people's New Year's Resolution List. But that doesn't have to make drastic - lack-based changes. Regions in the world known for their lifestyles that enable their residents to live happier, healthier lives into their 100's are areas known as "Blue Zones."