In June 2024, I went to Sicily with my sister Nora and her three adult children: my niece Angela and my nephews Joe and Chuck.  We had a great time visiting family and enjoyed exploring various areas of the Sicilian island. I cherish so many memories from that trip.  It seems like it was yesterday, not two years ago.

One day on the island of Ortigia, when bumping around the medieval labyrinthine streets of the island, we came upon an ancient piazza. There was a church dating back to the 17th century. The church was built over the ruins of a 4th century church, which had  been destroyed by an earthquake. The square was beautiful. The best part of the piazza, actually, was the discovery of Irma La Dolce, a cafe right on the square. We were hungry and so happy to take a seat at one of the outdoor cafe tables. There we met Irma La Dolce. She was running her cafe with pure love. She was so welcoming. Her young daughter was helping out, serving customers.

We were on top of the world, eating our delicious meal, enjoying each other’s company, talking to Irma and her daughter.  Before we left, I asked Irma if I could take a photo of her. She quickly grabbed Nora and posed for the photo. I love this photo. I see pride. I see love. I see pure happiness….I also see a dog-paw-print tattoo right at Irma’s heart center, angel wings on one arm, and a shining sun on the other arm.

Lovely Irma, Thank you for welcoming us so warmly.  We’ll be back for sure!

Irma’s philosophy
Always say hello.
Smile with love.
Take your time.
Enjoy our freshly prepared food. (And her food was fresh and delicious!)
Get curious.
Respect the common space. (I love this one! You have to think of others when you are in public places -consider noise levels- and you have to pick up after yourself and help keep spaces clean, safe, and welcoming.)
Reach out kindly.
Always ask us….we will solve everything with all the love in the world.