Our Journey to Sicilian Lifestyle and Culture
Sicilian Life was created to share how we’ve lived a Sicilian lifestyle and culture over the course of our lives—whether in the U.S. or Sicily. From language and traditions to the way we cook, celebrate, and stay connected to family, these values have always shaped our home. This space began with our story but has become something bigger, shaped by all the connections we’ve made along the way.
We met in 1976 when Croce and his partners opened the very first Original Italian Pizza (OIP) in Lewistown, Pennsylvania. Back then, Monument Square was bustling with shoppers, and Lewistown was full of small-town charm—long before the days of big-box stores.
The pizzeria was busy and always hiring. My sister worked there as a waitress, so I studied the menu and applied, hoping to get hired too. During my interview, Croce looked me in the eye, smiled, and said, “You wanna worka? You worka.” I was hired on the spot. We’ve been together ever since.
Over the years, we’ve never taken our family or friends for granted. It’s easy to get caught up in daily routines, but we try to stay mindful of what really matters.
We have three adult children, two daughters and a son, and four beautiful grandchildren. We feel incredibly blessed. Learn more about our life in Carini on the Sicilian Life homepage.
Our journey has been shaped not just by places, but by the people we’ve met along the way. Family gatherings, shared meals, and simple moments of laughter remind us every day of what truly matters. Living between two cultures has given us a unique perspective, blending Sicilian warmth with American practicality. We’re grateful for the chance to build a life that honors both heritages, and we hope to inspire others to embrace their own journeys with openness and joy.
Moving to Sicily to Enjoy Sicilian Lifestyle and Culture
Forty-five years after we met, we moved to Carini, Sicily, the town where Croce was born and raised. We’ve truly enjoyed our time here in the Province of Palermo.
We started our YouTube channel, and this blog, to capture our experiences in Sicily and share them with friends, family, and anyone curious about life here. It’s our way of documenting this chapter and connecting with others who dream of Italy or feel a pull toward their roots.
Living in Sicily has given us a firsthand look at the rich culture, traditions, and everyday life that make this island so special. Through our videos and blog, we hope to share not just the sights, but the authentic Sicilian lifestyle that shapes every moment here.
If there’s something you’d like to see, whether in Carini, the Palermo area, or anywhere in Sicily, let us know. We’ll do our best to create a video for you.
Thanks for being here.
Croce ♥ Carol
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