Being from an Italian family, I've enjoyed a number of benefits. Chief among them is the fantastic food. Gnocchi, lasagna, cookies, and all other manner of carb-saturated goodies are taken for granted at any family gathering, and the star of the show for me is my grandma's homemade spaghetti. It's dense without being heavy, is perfectly textured, and has a subtle, glorious flavor that is difficult to describe but which I can guarantee cannot be found in a 1-pound box of noodles from the grocery store.
My mom has carried on the tradition, but sadly, I've never made the stuff myself -- until now! Behold, my mom teaching me to make the best spaghetti I've ever tasted.
Happy Festivus and Merry Christmas to all!