Author Archives
Alexandra Mylonas
Two Homes, One Heart: What Filoxenia Means to My Family
From Tsotyli to Patras and across generations in America, Dr. Alexandra Mylonas reflects on the family traditions, hospitality, and sense of belonging she hopes to pass on to her daughter.
Tsiknopempti: Between Thessaloniki and Tsotyli, the Smoke Knows My Name
A personal reflection on Tsiknopempti in Greece, tracing memory, smoke, and belonging between Thessaloniki and the town of Tsotyli during Apokries.
Two Santas, One Winter: A Transatlantic Story of Tradition
A Greek-American educator reflects on Saint Basil, Santa Claus, and how families balance faith, tradition, and identity across cultures.
A Summer Of Heritage: Saint Demetrios Greek Camp Brings Culture To Life
When the school year ends and summer begins, most kids look forward to sun, fun, and a break from the classroom. But at Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, summer means something…
The Kallikantzaroi: Mischievous Greek Elves
The Kallikantzaroi, often described as the “Greek elves,” add a touch of whimsy and chaos to the holiday season in Greece. For twelve magical days, spanning Christmas to the Epiphany (January 6th), these mischievous creatures…
Lazarakia: Celebrating Greek Orthodox Easter Traditions
Growing up and today, my favorite Greek baking holiday has got to be Easter, or Pascha as it is called in Greek. This time of year makes me feel blessed and grateful for my Greek…
My Child’s Child is two times my own Child
Grandparents play a vital role in children’s development, providing emotional support, wisdom, cultural identity, and cherished family connections. Alexandra Mylonas explores the profound impact of strong grandparent-grandchild relationships, from fostering emotional regulation and mental health…
Kyra Sarakosti: Unveiling the Lenten Legend of Greek Easter
Mrs. Lent or Lady Lent is her name. She is a traditional old Greek woman made from dough. The most obvious characteristic of this woman is her seven legs, which are used as a type…
Psihosavato, Saturday of the Souls – A Greek Orthodox Tradition
Discover the Greek Orthodox tradition of Psihosavato or Saturday of Souls, when prayers are offered for the eternal rest of deceased loved ones. Learn about the symbolic koliva wheat dish, memorial table, and church services…
Team Kourabiedes Or Team Melomakarona?
Can’t decide between the melt-in-your-mouth magic of kourabiedes or the symphonic sweetness of melomakarona? Join Alexandra Mylonas’ tasty tug-of-war and get the inside scoop on her family’s closely-guarded recipes for these iconic Christmas cookies. Let…
Welcoming Clean Monday with the Greek Culinary Tradition of Lagana
Lagana is a traditional Greek bread that is only baked once a year for Kathari Deftera, or Clean Monday, the first day of Lent in the Greek Orthodox Church. This period of time lasts 40…
Welcoming The Holidays With Kourabiedes
The aroma of kourabiedes floating through my house and unlocking childhood memories bring a huge smile to my face. When a particular smell releases so many memories connected to a unique Greek holiday tradition that…
