Featured Interview With Ilene & Gary Modica
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
Both born and raised in New York, Gary was born and raised in Maspeth, Queens while Ilene on Long Island. They will be celebrating 40-years of marriage in November 2020. Their blended family all live in Arizona, about 30-miles from one another. Along with these four children, they enjoy nine grandchildren ranging in age from two years to seventeen.
It took them three years to become Italian citizens through the Jurs Sanguinis and Jurs Matrimonii application process. This was done through the Los Angeles, California Consulate as they currently reside in Arizona. They would describe this process like a rollercoaster ride and currently help others with their applications, questions, and travel advice. Obtaining Italian citizenship became personal for Gary in wanting to bring his name back home to Italy.
We don’t have any pets at the time because we travel so much. When we had our home in Phoenix, we rescued a dog from Mexico and adopted a greyhound from the track.
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I have always been an avid reader. Gary reads more history books. Our first book, written while traveling through Italy in 2019 was our first attempt at writing. Our reviews are so amazing – and encouraging us to write another. Who would have guessed?
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
Nancy and John Petralia inspired us with their book, Not in a Tuscan Villa. We actually went and lived in Parma, Italy because of reading this book. We have become good friends through social media, phone, and email, as well as Zooming.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
Can you imagine living in Italy for one full year? This was the dream. That was the promise. After a rollercoaster ride to obtain Italian citizenship, they achieved their goal and packed a bag, leaving family and friends to live in Italy during 2019.
This is their memoir and personal adventure, which has changed their lives forever. They share their desire for a genuine experience with an Italian family and how this dream came true. Enjoy their stories about new Italian friendships, reconnecting with old friends, meeting up with subscribers to their blog, and the countless experiences through the various towns they stayed and explored.
Our Italian Journey is a compelling read for anyone who wants to experience and appreciate daily life in Italy and to understand its charm, appeal, and cultural differences. Join in the laughter as they also divulge the trials and tribulations they encountered along the way.
Connect with the Author on their Websites and Social media profiles
Ilene & Gary Modica’s Website