Discover Leigha's Journey Back to the Beginning

My Mother's family immigrated from Castagnole Monferrato to America in the 1900's. My Noni Noni arrived to California on her own when she was around 19. My Nonno Reno's parents immigrated to the East coast before he was born.

Noni Noni had two daughters, Louisa and Martha, both of whom got married and had children. Louisa's three daughters, Julie, Melissa, and Alesia, were raised in the traditions of their mother and grandmother. Noni Julia, who grew up in Castagnole Monferrato, continued the practices she was raised with, tending to her own livestock and cultivating her own crops. The children were taught various skills, including working the land, butchery, cooking, and observing how a strong-willed Italian woman manages a farm.

My mother, Julie, was the only daughter who had children, giving birth to Corey, myself, and Shawn. I developed a passion for food at a young age. All the women had absorbed knowledge from Noni Noni, and I spent my childhood learning from each of them. Growing up in my Noni's kitchen was a regular occurrence, where we dedicated most of our time to preparing and enjoying meals. Making pasta, risotto, stews, and cookies was our way of connecting with one another.

The women in our family frequently showcased their talents to friends. Louisa's home was always a popular choice for dinners and celebrations, where the food and lively atmosphere were cherished by guests, although I initially viewed it as ordinary. It wasn't until much later in my adult life that I recognized the uniqueness of my upbringing. Only after leaving home did I realize that I carried their influence with me. As I cooked for people in various places, I discovered that not everyone prepared food in the same way as I did. The culinary traditions of my Italian family were not universal. Welcoming friends into my home for a meal became a deeply personal experience, as I shared my heritage and represented the women in my family.

After serving as a medic in the Air Force for many years, I eventually understood that my true calling was in professional cooking. My journey has taken me to Europe and back to where it all began. Returning to Catagnole Monferrato has been a privilege, as I found a sense of familiarity in a place I had never visited before.

As I continue my journey here in Europe, I hope to share the traditions from a lesser known area in Italy. A beautiful hidden gem of culinary treasures that I so thankfully know because of my grandparents. The things I hope to accomplish in this life, I owe to the Noni's in my family. Questo e per te, Tesoro Noni.