LAST MINUTE MEDITERRANEAN SUMMER LUNCH FOR FRIENDS: Cooking from a Garden in Italy 

Thank you for watching. Appreciate everyone’s thoughts. Keep in mind these friends reciprocate and host all the time. As someone wrote below, it’s a cultural thing. Not every Italian is like this but many in Mediterranean (and Asian and Middle Eastern) cultures are. My Greek grandmother would often say a good Greek should always have something homemade ready to offer, even if guests show up completely unannounced. But I understand your comments come out of concern for my health. I’m fine, don’t worry. 😘😘😘

Boundaries are important. Especially since you had just been sick and are 4 months pregnant with a toddler! If I were your friend, I wouldn't dream of doing that to you. I would show up with a basket of goodies for you and leave the kids at home. I know how a pool in hot weather can be a magnet for drop in friends. Boundaries my dear are a healthy part of self-care. Hugs.

Kylie, I am Italian and I live in Italy and I can tell you that none of my friends would do something like this! Preparing lunch for TEN (10!!!) additional people with two hours notice??? Hell, no! Those friends acted really rude in my opinion

I live in the U.S. and I would never call someone up and invite myself and family over for lunch or dinner with a two hour window. I would never invite myself over to someone else's house for any meal. I would invite "them" over to my house and wait to be invited to theirs. But I know cultures are different in every country. You handled this with grace and patience. I have no idea how you did everything you did in two hours!! You're so kind and truly generous. :)

My biggest pet peeve is when guests with kids don't supervise them and allow them to rampage through your home. It feels like an invasion of your personal space unless they stay in designated play area/hangout spot.

I have an Italian husband too - who loves people over for meals. Just tell him No…not ALSO making pasta/gazpacho . Love the way he couldn’t finish his zucchini on grill so expects you to bake it! Kylie, you are pregnant too - and during a heat wave. You gotta create some boundaries/rules. Really, when you give in and accommodate, there is no real appreciation…it’s just them seeing their version of guilt tripping and mildly bullying the wife as their right.

Ha, they invited themselves to your house for lunch with two hours' notice. You are a good woman, Kylie. I would have been asking what they were bringing for lunch.

i used to be just like you Kylie, always thinking how can i offer the most delightful experience to others, accepting people at dinner on a very short notice, welcoming their kids even when destroying things around house, cooking the best meals even when i was tired, trying to please my husband when he freaked out on dinners and how much food we serve or not, etc. This was until 10 years ago when my body started to crash, entering burnout, not once, but three times, and then an autoimmune disease. Giving so much to others and being such a kind loving soul can deeply exhaust a woman's body. Through the recovery process (which is still going on despite my lifestyle changes) i learned that self care, very strong boundaries, pleasing myself first and doing only what my body can really handle without being in a rush and depleted, is a must. I hope from the bottom of my heart that you will take much better care of yourself Kylie, you deserve it so much. Let things just be, let others pressure go, let them deal with their own worries, dont take their burdens on your shoulders, you are already doing so much. Its time for you to receive more and replenish. If i were to receive people now on a short notice, i would ponder twice on saying yes. Am i rested enough? Do i have some food that is easy to put on table, like a cheese platter, fruits and wine? Are their kids behaving? if not, i would kindly ask people to not bring their kids or kindly refuse welcoming them because my sanity is worth it. Would i be in a rush? if yes, the answer would be NO. In the end, people who would be offended by m healthy boundaries would not really be my friends. Take care Kylie.

I started getting a panic attack watching your preparations for your visitors, that was way way too much stress for you, just getting over an illness and being pregnant not to mention you also have Gianfranco to take care of. At one time in my life I did entertain like this putting so much stress on myself to serve the perfect meal, in my perfect house looking perfect but not anymore!!! Take care of yourself, Kylie, you are important too!!!

this video feels designed to highlight not so much the italian way of casual imposition, but rather some of the understandable frustrations you felt toward your husband in this situation. you have a beautiful life and your work ethic is staggering. i hope you're having the conversations you need to have not so much with your friends, but with guido. you can say no and there are a couple moments in this where i wish you would've. communication is so important and sometimes, you just need to draw the line. you might need to be really overt about your boundaries if you are ever in a situation like this again. it sounded like the hinting was falling on deaf ears in this case. wish you and your family well always.

I'm in the US and for that many people at least 2 days notice unless they like peanut butter.

OMG,love Guido but he was being annoying to keep asking u to change the menu and add additional dishes!!! You were SUPER PATIENT😃.This is wayyyyy too much work for a last minute lunch even though u already had the delicious ingredients!!So colorful.

Hi Kyile, I'm Italian and it's not the Italian culture to invite themselves fir lunch (13 people 🤯) 2 hours before lunch. In our culture we call them "Sfacciati o Faccia tosta" It's in the culture to be less planners and invite ourselves for a visit but normally for a coffee or a drink in the late afternoon. We would have said "I'm sorry my dear but it's too short notice for a lunch, what about a late afternoon coffe or drink, we can arrange lunch for another day!!" I think they took advantage of you, knowing your extreme kindness and generosity, probably they didn't want to cook. You need to learn to know better the people surrounding you. 2nd point. Italy gets very hot in the summer, a typical hot summer lunch is not cooking much but preparing cold dishes like: Cold pasta (you cook only the pasta and mix with pomodorini, mozzarelline, pesto etc etc) there are several recipes,. Cold starters like prosciutto e malone, o caprese, or a big mix salad (you are a queen of mix salads? You did far too much Hope you read this. And Guido need to learn also. Next time be more Italian and set boundaries, just say 2 hours is too short notice, but you're welcome to a late afternoon coffee or drinks. Much love Kylie xx❤

Way too much work for a pregnant lady with a toddler. I used to be like you when I was younger. Wanting to be the perfect host and please my husband, but now that I am older I've realized, the more I do or am capable of, the more everyone expects. No one gave me an award for doing sooooo much and I was definitely taken advantage of and made my husband look good. Now, I don't do anything. I spend my time on myself rather than pleasing others. Kylie wake up - doing all of this does not define you or give you value. You are more than this !

Incredibly impressed by your hosting skills under the circumstances! Next week surprise your guests with 1 hour notice for lunch and see how they feel! ;)

Hi Kylie! Italian here, living in Germany with lots of Italian friends. It’s not a common thing here to invite yourself over a friend’s place pretending lunch or dinner. Friends usually call and ask if you want to hang out at their place or at ours and if so what everyone of us will prepare. So that all of us contribute to a nice meal. Regarding the kid’s behavior there’s a huuuuuge difference in parenting. There are the ones you mentioned where the kids stray around the house with no boundaries at all and there are the ones that are well behaved and educated. It’s difficult to manage that situation especially since I don’t allow my girls to act and behave that way. I really must admit that in that case we really limit the times we’re together with these people, making sure to meet them outside. Not even restaurants because even there I feel sorry for the people around us and the working staff. May sound a little harsh but that’s just how I feel. Anyways I love the way you move in your kitchen and get everything ready. I really hope your husband appreciates all your precious work. Love from Germany!

I just wanted to take a minute and say many many blessings for a safe pregnancy and congratulations on a new life to spoil!!! Your a wonderful mommy.

I can accept that inviting yourself to someone's home at the last minute is acceptable in the Italian culture. Where I draw the line is looking after everyone else's kids. Expecting lunch is one thing...expecting built-in babysitting services is quite different. I would politely let all of the parents know where the kids are allowed to play (e.g. around the pool and open yard) and that they are responsible for ensuring they keep to those areas. I don't think that is too much to expect. One can be too accommodating. Loved the video...that gazpacho looked amazing!

I love your hair style, you look radiant and beautiful and as far as serving that many people in two hours, a huge "no". Everyone bring something and if not, go out for dinner. That is a huge load on the hostess, that deserves at least a two day advanced notice. Stressing out that much, does not make for a leisurely, fun experience - agita for dinner anyone? Gave me agita just watching it, I would not make it in Italy and I'm 80% Italian heritage. Hope your husband knows you are a special gift from God to him.

As an American who lived in Italy for almost two years, I can tell you that most people would not invite themselves to anyone's house for dinner without an invitation. But since these are good friends who invite you frequently and you felt an obligation, I can understand why you agreed to the dinner. But again, you are expecting a baby and I think your friends were a bit inconsiderate to ask this of you. I will also say that Italians are polite and gracious and want to always display "bella figura" so I get it. And from my own experience, I think once you reach a certain age, those 3 course meals will get tiring to prepare and your desire to cook will lesson - especially if, as a mother and wife, you have been the cook for 25 to 30 years. So, yes, enjoy those dinners as long as you can in the company of great friends. Things change as we age. You are a wonderful and energetic woman Kylie, but even I who always entertained this way would say, it was a bit too much. You pushed yourself too hard. Take care! We all love your videos❤

You are a gem Kylie. Cannot believe how you kept your cool when your lovely husband kept making suggestions to you on what else you can make. You are not only the sweetest person you are very patient and kind. You make everything you do with love and perfection. Take care of yourself and the new baby.❤

I started to feel extremely grateful for my husband while watching this video 🙈 he is so helpful and whenever we have guests over he always tells me to do something easy and to not stress or if it's a lot of people he will ask me to make one thing I enjoy and will go buy the rest. That being said been a viewer for years and we all love Guido, and know how hard he works! No one is perfect and it is actually refreshing to see the realistic view of being a couple on SM instead of a perfectly crafted reality that other creators portray. Thanks for another lovely video, make sure to rest Kylie 💗

I love how Guido insisted Kylie sit while he “prepared” yogurt & nuts for her snack & then thought there weren’t enough courses and wanted a pasta course?!? Then he had no time to put zucchini on the same grill as the sausages! OMG. Yes, he had things he was doing but come on Guido…the extreme heat and your pregnant wife preparing this LAST MINUTE meal for “friends” with THREE children. Didn’t something similar happen last year when she was pregnant & had to prepare for company Guido invited? He is something else.

Hi Kylie, I live in Mallorca Spain but I am from Canada and I totally understand both cultures. Here in the Mediterranean we seem to be so much more laidback, putting importance much more on the time spend together rather than the actual hosting. So this happens from time to time. You did an amazing job and everything looked amazing. So envious of your gazpacho. I am going to make one myself. You are an amazing mom, wife , cook , host, gardener, and women. As we say in Canada . You are a four wheeler and work awesome in all terrains. Bravo my dear 😊

I live in L.A.and most people I know would go out and meet people at a restaurant rather than at homes (and sit outside if warm).Exceptions would be drinks and appetizers at home, outdoors for casual family/ friends BBQ's,beach picnics, holiday dinners.I would say 1 week out for notice at a minimum to plan menu and get necessary ingredients.

My mothers life was constant unexpected guests. Of course they expected to have a meal or two. My dad not helping at all. I honestly have PTSD growing up like that. I get so nervous having guests. My mother was amazing ❤ as are you.

Kylie you are just amazing and so kind! You have a heart of gold! The only problem is that people in today’s generation ( I’m also a teacher) parents don’t raise their kids the way they used to. Respect, sadly seems to be an outdated concept. Keep raising GF to be a wholesome person with respect in all areas. You are a wonderful woman and so admirable!❤

I was raised in USA but my family was Italian, from Italy. People would never call ahead, but just show up and we would do the same. But, (we would never expect a meal) always bring something. Like a beverage, ice cream , a cake etc. But it was part of the culture that you would always have something you could pull out and within 15 minutes there would be a spread on the table. We loved it when people would just show up! Instant party!! There is always pasta, homemade bread, a salad, some cheese… simple and wonderful and happy. My family would talk how rude Americans were for expecting you to call first before showing up, or “can you believe it, all they did was offer us a cup of coffee” 😂. So all (extended family) rarely associated outside the familia. My family was from Calabria. Hospitality was everything.

Always a fine line between kind hospitality and setting boundaries. If they are genuine friends they should respect your boundaries and recognise that a respectful time frame e.g a couple of days isn’t unreasonable. It’s not just their needs that matter it’s everyone’s . Remember it’s ok to politely say no, and if they can’t accept that then the friendship isn’t worth your energy. ❤️

You are a better woman than me lol. I would have told them you will prepare the one dish and they can bring whatever they want to eat. Too short of notice for all of those people when you’re pregnant, just getting over being sick and have a toddler.

If Kylie thinks it’s okay, then that’s all that matters. What the rest of us think is secondary. I really love and appreciate her videos and the inspiration she provides.

Love this video. I am a New Yorker, married an Italian and living in Italy. It drives me crazy with last minute get togethers but that’s the Italian way. U r incredible. U handled it w grace and patience. I learned some great last minute ideas from u today. Many Thanks….

I'm exhausted! That's a lot to expect of you with just two hour notice. But! You pulled it off in spades. I think it's a tribute to you and your expertise.

I’m italian living in Italy and this situation is very uncommon! Kylie ci fai fare la figura dei cafoni 😅. Il tuo radioso sorriso è il miglior benvenuto per un ospite. Non affannarti più così tanto per favore. Take care of you and your family. Stay focused on priority.

OMG us mothers put a lot of pressure on ourselves don’t we & other people’s expectations as well. As I’ve gotten older I’ve learned to say no sometimes, it’s hard but you have to look after your well-being as well. I would have said to Guido ‘you want the extra course you make it’ lol 😂. You did an amazing job.

I am Portuguese, we are of Europeans of Latin origin as well (as Celt) so we are easy here, but my God, if 10 people invited themselves to my house and my lunch in 2 hours, I would freak out... sorry, but there is a difference between easy going and imposing. I find such an attitude totally callous, friends or not. Kylie, you are incredibly understanding and a real trooper, so kudos to you! Much health and ❤ FM sunny Portugal.

You are so beautiful and glowing Kylie. I won’t pile on to the other comments about taking care of yourself, except to say it’s worth listening to some of us former overachievers as we can sometimes give too much of ourselves. I spend half of the year in Italy, and I have been suffering with long Covid since May 2023. I am thrilled to see any information you care to share about healthy eating and healthy living, especially in Bella Italia. You really have a gift and thank you for sharing this with us. Quick PS - I was quite ill when we arrived at our home in Tuscany early this spring, but I kept saying Italy will heal me. Sure enough, by the time we arrived back in June I felt like myself again. Well, three months later and after incredible amount of stress my health has now declined markedly. Stress is incredibly impactful on your health. Bless you and your beautiful family Kylie.

So, here's an idea. Buy 3 frozen pizza from local super mart and one gallon of vanilla ice cream and consider yourself ready for anyone who drops by (uninvited) for dinner.

I just love always seeing Gianfranco so willing to want to learn and help you in the garden and kitchen. He will always love doing this when he is a grown adult man. You are teaching him a great value in his life, beautiful Kylie!

I would consider it extremely rude to invite myself and that many people on a moments notice especially if you were expected to supply the meal. I would not consider these people friends. This behavior runs counter to every manner I’ve ever been taught. Not to mention it’s just basic common sense.

I am glad you enjoyed your guests because that was a stressful preparation. Such short notice is a real burden, but you handled it beautifully. Take care of yourself!

10 people would require at least a weeks notice for me! I know cultures are so different, but I am afraid I would be a pariah in Italy. I know me, and I would have been melting down like an old fish wife (no idea what they are like, but sounds good), slamming pots and pans around, hurling a few swear words, (out of earshot of toddler, of course) and probably cut myself, ALL with the worst attitude. I’m awful! LOL. You, on the other hand, are a saint, sweetie! Nary a cross word passed your lips. Your wee boy is such a darling, helping you❤ I honestly don’t know how you do it all, Kylie. Lastly, I wouldn’t THINK of letting my children run roughshod in someone’s house. Nope! Nope! Nope!

I had anxiety watching this episode… I thought steak chutney potato salad was quite adequate for a summer lunch. Then Guido asks for pasta and a side salad - then you made pasta for the kids?!?😵‍💫🥹🤔 and what was Guido doing???🤣 Also the amount of commercial interruptions is ridiculous lately!!! I feel so much empathy for you especially in this episode. Pregnancy heat wave wow!!! Brava 🥇🌸

Kylie. Your wisdom makes life so much easier. Lots of people whine, scream, pout, etc., but you manage to prioritize, reassess and make the best of a situation. How blessed you are and so are Gianfranco and Guido for having you.

I see the comments from others and although I know they care about how much you give and do for others because they care about you, I care about you too, But I just want to take a moment to thank you for your servant attitude. Sometimes being able to serve others can be so fulfilling especially when it comes to preparing an amazingly delicious meal that anyone would be truly thankful for. And I am sure that your guests expressed this in one way or another. I too love to serve others through my cooking and I can honestly say as an Italian American, my guests have always shown their gratitude.

Sorry to hear that you were so sick. That's never fun. Happy to see you back on❤

I am sure you don't need reminding that the calmer you can be for the next 5 months will result in a content calm baby. You owe it to yourself and your baby.

Wow if I invited myself for lunch I’d say don’t worry I’ll bring the food and I’d keep my kids under control in someone else’s home. Don’t think I’d like your friends expecting so much from a pregnant woman who’s been recently unwell.. you’re way calmer than I’d ever be

Wow, spontaneous meals for visitors would mean you'd have to always have a fully stocked pantry and "be ready to go" at a moments notice, that's a lot alright. You're at such an advantage with your property and gardens full of produce though. Here in NZ I usually organise visitor meals a week or even more in advance, unless of course someone appears from out of town etc and then it's all hands to the pump! You're such an inspiration Kylie.

As soon as you spoke about the peppers, the mixed colors, picking directly from the earth and appreciating what you picked stopped me and made me want to respond. That is a true gardener, and that is why you are so talented.... Truly, it comes from appreciating what we can grow. Farm to table. Love all of your videos, you are so very talented. From Hands to Earth Homestead in Pa. Much love to you and your family 🍅🌻🌞

You have the patience of a saint.

Omg how stressful for you , I think it’s a little disrespectful of the guests to just invite themselves around , you definitely have a lot more patience than me you are a saint !

this young woman is amazing! Her husband is very blessed. Good luck with your pregnancy!

We never drop in at a short notice but do Sunday visits and bring something to go with coffee.

I'm so glad you mentioned how stressful it is having to watch and police kids when you're entertaining. I have the same issue and wondered how people handle entertaining with kids and maybe we are odd. Things get broken and dirty and my daughter ends of upset because she is so organized and takes care of her toys. I guess we just keep policing. I will try doing most of the cooking ahead of time as you mentioned. I loved this episode.❤

Those are beautiful dishes. You have the patience of a saint.

I experience the same thing with adults bringing children to my house. It's as if they expect you to wait on them and babysit and cook while they enjoy themselves. At the end of the visit, I'm worn out and feel sad that I couldn't just sit and enjoy their visit. Once they leave, it takes over an hour to clean up.

I got some good advice years ago. What if you were unavailable for whatever reason? They would find someone else to impose on. You don't need to always say yes. Set boundaries.

Please do a cookbook. I love your recipes! (PS agree with the critique of this very disrespectful bordering on abusive dynamic in your life presently. We all wake up to it eventually - here’s hoping it happens before you’re broke down and fed-up. Your children are watching and learning. ❤). Looking forward to your next video - 🎉

Heatwave, swimming pool and your food😅 I understand the allure 😊❤

I do not care what culture you are from but parents should be 100% responsible for their children's behavior at all times especially when being guests in someone else's home. From a Canadian.

Dear Kylie, This is the first time I was really shocked (and a little angry) by the demanding demands from you... You are so kind and gentle but please learn to say no!! You can cook for your friends, but you definitely need to know it in advance (at least a day or two to shop and prepare), limits!! Sorry, I'm worried about you, even though we never met. Please take care.

Ciao Kylie. We also live in Italy and have learnt to Just Say No! It's unfair for people to impose themselves on you particularly when you are 4 months pregnant and have not been well. OMG kids running amuck around your lovely home and destroying your things. It sounds horrendous.. Guido,..... my mother who had a house full of kids and worked full time would tell my father if you want something do it yourself.. including a tomato salad! One of life's lessons....Maria.. PS. Good on you for expressing yourself so honestly I hope your 'friends' watch this vlog and learn something.

You are lovely Kylie and I’ve read what you just recently wrote in reply but I haven’t forgotten the apalling way you were treated in hospital nor did he friends who you invited , you made a beautiful cake and they didn’t turn up. Also it was as you who scrubbed and oiled ALL the floor tiles-

I know exactly what you mean when cooking with fresh vegetables from your garden! The colors are amazing and bring such joy, so happy you feel the same! Your potato salad looked amazing, I am definitely going to have to make that! Thank you for sharing your recipes!

Sorry Kylie, but I must object to your comment about Italians just dropping in with practically no notice and expecting a meal. As an American who has been living in Italy since the 1970s I can absolutely say that this behaviour is NOT normal. In my experience, Italians are usually very aware of social norms and proper etichette, worried about being considered “maleducati” (coarse mannered or vulgar). Unthinkable for a 40 yr old to say “Hey, can we come over for a dip in your pool and stay for lunch? And by the way, there are 10 of us!” In addition, being Italians, “lunch” (pranzo) is the main meal and they certainly do not expect a miserly burger and a beer, like a normal Anglosaxon picnic. Unthinkable the short notice and lack of consideration for the cook. All of this makes it hard to believe. The only scenario I can possibly imagine like this is if teenagers were calling other teenagers, in which case, they would probably be perfectly happy with a plate of pasta and a salad!

This is exactly how I prepare and cook meals. I wish that we could be in the kitchen together, laughing, preparing meals, spending time with our toddlers, and enjoying all of the beautiful smells and sounds from the magical experience. Thank you for sharing ❤

In the Netherlands it can be months in advance! Especially on a weekend haha - like get out the calendar...my mother in law asks about Christmas a full year ahead

your kid is amazingly smart, attentive, and so present....wow!

Thank you Kylie for sharing with us your recipes it's so sweet to watch Jahn Fanco helping you in the garden. I'm glad you are feeling better. ❤❤

One of the things I like about your channel is that you can put together a great video and still respect the privacy of others. I have family that are very private and it is important to respect their wishes. You describing the meal was perfect. Thank you for sharing.

I suspect people might invite themselves over to your place because you have a great home, grow so much fruit and veg, are fun company AND you are a great cook!! Not customary here in the UK (praise the Lord 🙏❤️). You should be nominated for a Sainthood ❤️

Guido asking you what you needed was very sweet! I have Italian friends who are much more relaxed and just go with the flow no pressure and my husband's friend's in Greece are the same way. If we invite them last minute they also bring food which is great! As they say in South africa bring and braai!

I understand perfectly, I come from a greek island, and a lot of times friends or relatives just appear on your front door! It's o.k. we usually just make a spaghetti with sauce lunch.

I can tell you make food with love all the time, from the bottom of your heart, you love, entertaining, and love, nourishing others with the wonderful food that you make. It’s a pleasure to watch you make all this wonderful food!! I love your little boy always helping you and the garden and cooking so wonderful scene! God bless you and your family and staying in good health!!

I have the same personality as you & its hard to learn how to say no & put limits, especially when you want to make everyone happy etc. And if you've done last minute events in the past, everyones like, Kylies fine she can do it. In my experience, waiting for people that love you to "do the right thing" never happens. I had to be bold & tell them & it turned around. I agree with Dr Phil, "you teach people how to treat you". I was over 45yrs before I could do it. The sooner the better :)

Kylie, it's a very good thing to keep private certains parts of your private life. I think people expose too much themselves (even their body) or their family in social media. It's not good, secure and safe specially for children. Some weird person's can use these images, etc. All of us must be careful. Wish you the best! Have a good and beautiful summer. From Canada.

In the US, inviting yourself over in such a short notice AND expecting lunch is considered, to put it lightly, not ideal. Usually because not everyone stocks enough food for a big gathering. For short notice visits like this, we would suggest meeting up at a restaurant or coffee shop first. If the homeowner offers their home to catch up, then that door is open.

You're GLOWING! Yes to you documenting your clean healthy lifestyle!

The power of saying No, and putting yourself and your own health and happiness first. If they are good, considerate people, then they would understand. Or just do cheese 🧀 and biscuits! 😃 and a glass of wine 🍷 Kylie, you are too good, and you do not put yourself first often enough.x 🌸🦋

Kylie I’ve missed you as well. You’re a breath of fresh air. God bless you and family❤

What a great video Kylie. I so relate to you with the clean up timing and the children. Oh the children with their sticky fingers running wild through the house jumping on the beds, touching and breaking our “treasures”. Yikes. Your meal looked above amazing and I’m inspired to create it for us.

God bless you Kylie, I would never be able to pull that off! All the dishes looked amazing, the potato salad and the salsa is one that I will make in the future. I love entertaining but I expect my guests to supervisor their own children for their own safety and not to destroy your things. That is totally not acceptable.Enjoy the rest of the summer and try to rest whenever you can especially in the hot weather. :)

Beautiful meal! I use to feel like I had to prepare every single dish from start to finish when I was younger too. As I have aged and my body just cannot do it all I have asked my guest to bring a dish or dessert that would compliment the meal. It blesses me and it makes them feel happy to contribute!

Amazing effort, to prepare such a meal in 2 hours! Sounds like you had a great time with your friends, don’t do too much in the heat, look after yourself and your baby. Friends should have offered to bring food to share or cleaned up for you??? You are a beautiful hostess. Thank you ❤

I'm so happy that all of you had such a wonderful time and that it is a lovely memory that all of you will share- I to love to make beautiful memories for family and friends!

In America at least, If I wanted to drop by for lunch I think I would be offering to bring something for the lunch so that the surprised hostesses had the option of either adding say a dessert and drinks or to say they already have a lunch. But I think I would not be expecting anything but a simple plate of whatever is available to the hostess😊

Never invited myself anywhere. I do want to mention you look lovely in yellow!

You’re a saint pulling a delicious lunch together and honoring the Italian practice. That’s love for sure.

So glad you are feeling better. When I was pregnant with my second; I showed so much sooner than with our first 😊. I love company and every now and again someone(s) just stop by; but normally we don’t have the same situation as you. We always try to have something in the house if someone stops by; some of our best memories are when we have had no notice and thing just happen organically. Anyone showing up without much notice couldn’t possibly expect anything extravagant 🙂. Love the channel!

Wonderful to see you working, making magic in the kitchen in two hours! Brava! 👋🥰🎶

Loved this! Love that you give us a peak into Italian culture. Yes it was odd to us that it was so last minute but it was a lovely experience to gather together and to enjoy the time together! I will try the chutney/salsa! You inspire me all the time Kylie.

Omg, hadn’t watched your channel for ages and forgotten what an inspiration you are! I would be tearing my hair out! Coping with poise and elegance 🥰

Wow! You're so patient and skilled. I live in the US and I don't normally host, so I would need several days to prepare for this many people. I normally grocery shop exactly for the meals we make each week, so I would have to shop just to have people over. Keep those recipes coming!!! 🥰😄

Thank you for taking the time to let us be with you in the kitchen! I love watching and having your advice on keeping everything so healthy and yet delicious!!

Kylie, given your ease in the kitchen, you make it look so seamless and you were gracious while doing so. I appreciate the teamwork between you and your husband. I was recently in Italy for several months and was surprised how lenient parents have become whether dining out formally or casually with their children - allowing them to climb on the tables and shout over the adults. I observed this more than once, it seems a rather new development and it surprised me.

Ok...not to be mean, unkind or critical but, PLEASE! Guido was so off base! What on earth was wrong with him to keep demanding more and more dishes? Just such a lack of consideration and thoughtfulness!😠

Kylie you are so inspiring & refreshing to me - I found some of these comments very amusing to read, all I could think about whilst watching this video was how creative & exciting you were, I’m an English girl but have grown up in a large family and community, it was very very normal for my grandma to cook for 20+ people on a Sunday & for my parents to invite visitors over unexpectedly after church, my husband and I have always risen to the challenge of hosting & working as a team, it is hard work but it is the most joyful & bountiful work to be able to offer someone a piece of your home, your food and time together, hospitality means: healing! And the western world certainly needs so much more of this type of healing 💜 with so much love as always!

I need a week to plan, buy and cook some dishes ahead. I guess I could make tuna or egg salad in a couple of hours and send my husband to get a dessert. I’m in total awe of your creativity in the kitchen.

That was all so wonderful to watch, but I felt stressed seeing you putting it all together! It's always a delight to see Gianfranco helping in the garden and taking such an interest. What a gardener he will be! Thank you for letting us watch.