In the 1970 musical Scrooge, even the grumpy Christmas-hating Scrooge eventually realized that “December the 25th is the dearest day of all the year!” (Watch the trailer here.) I never needed any convincing about that. The sound of Andy Williams singing that Christmas was “the most wonderful time of the year” had always filled our […]
Many women I know love shopping in groups, but not me. Shopping is stressful enough without bringing a bunch of people along. Don’t get me wrong, I love getting together with my girlfriends. Maybe we could grab lunch or a frothy cappuccino. Is anyone free this week? It’s hard for me to find clothes that […]
What are my ABCs of simple, natural living? It’s all about getting back to basics. My husband and I strive for simplicity. We have found greater peace and tranquillity by reducing clutter and living without debt. We’re also trying to live more naturally because it’s good for our health and the planet. For us, a […]
I’m a frugal grandmother and I’m proud of it! But we can become too frugal, in which case we need a wake-up call. Or in my case, maybe a sleeping pill! Because you see, I had these sheets. They were flannel, perfect for our cold and drafty Italian houses that never seem to heat up […]
With a tattered sack of belongings slung over his shoulder, we watched as he trudged along, trying in vain to keep his bare feet out of the snow. Miserable, destitute, and in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the huge city, unnoticed – or almost. Unused to such sights it was shocking and […]
Looking for a quick and easy healthy snack that can be prepared in a flash? Oil on bread has long been the standard snack in Italian kitchens. (Especially before the advent of unhealthy junk food.) It’s so delicious as a midnight snack, after school or anytime! And all you need is fresh Italian bread and […]