Growing up, I thought I was an orphan, unwanted and abandoned by my “real” family. I imagine many kids have such thoughts, possibly influenced by books or movies. But in my case, these thoughts came from my own family and friends. “Is Sheila adopted?” family friends would ask. “She doesn’t look like anyone in the […]
Autumn is slowly creeping into our area. The grape and olive harvests are in full swing. The days are lovely and warm, but not uncomfortably hot. Nights are sometimes cool enough for a light blanket. For some reason, autumn always reminds me of Nonno’s house, our summer home. It’s the house my husband was born […]
My maternal grandmother was a wonderful grandma – with a great tolerance for children. Don’t get me wrong. I like kids. But not a dozen at a time, which Grandma often endured enjoyed during summer vacations. But then, Grandma was a little crazy, in the best sense of word. She was funny, forgetful, and always […]
Chestnuts, an open fire, and the importance of finding joy in simple things. The fire didn’t heat better out of the fireplace. All it really did was create more smoke! Although no one would ever convince the dear, stubborn, old man of that! Yet we fondly remember those simple evenings of reading by the fire […]
Children often think grandmothers are the most wonderful women in the world. But I can’t help but wonder if my kids have ever thought, “That’s not the same woman who raised me!” Windows wide open to a soft, gentle breeze. Spring had come! My favorite time of the year. And what better time to do […]