During the construction of Ethel M Chocolates, a big part of my time was spent installing the chocolate molding equipment to make the liquor chocolates and some other shaped chocolate pieces. In order to expedite this process, the manufacturer from Italy had sent over two installers from their factory. It was my job to coordinate with them to get everything they needed to finish that task. It took months. As a result, I got to know them very well, since we usually ate lunch together during this time.

Their older installer’s name was Gustavo and the younger Pietro who we called Peter. Since they were here over Thanksgiving and they were away from home, Janet insisted that we have them over to our house for Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is not a holiday they celebrate in Italy. Though I knew them well, after so much time together, they were surprised at Janet’s initial inquisition. She asked each about their personal lives. She was amazed I had no prior idea whether Gustavo was married or not.

After getting intimate details, She asked,

“Did you mind me asking all of these questions?”

Gustavo answered in his heavily accented English, pointing at me,

“If he asked I would not like it, but from you it is ok.”

Janet nodded smiling. It was a very pleasant, memorable and fun Thanksgiving.