humor – Signora Sheila

Old Age Isn’t For Wimps

Smiling older woman in a blue sweater raises both fists in celebration outdoors, with warm autumn trees softly blurred behind her.

We never expect bad things to happen. Even though we know they do happen, we tend to think they won’t happen to us. For example, I didn’t expect my first pregnancy to end in a miscarriage. Nor did I expect my husband to have a near-fatal chainsaw accident or for me to fall down theContinueContinue reading “Old Age Isn’t For Wimps”

Can We Be Too Frugal?

Cozy pastel bedroom with rumpled pink and mint bedding, blush pillows, sheer curtains, and flowers by a sunlit window; soft, serene mood.

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 upContinueContinue reading “Can We Be Too Frugal?”

Things Are Not Always What They Seem

Silhouetted cat sits before an oval mirror, gazing at its shadowy reflection which appears as a lion; a simple blue scene evokes confidence and self-reflection.

Doctors sometimes ask their patients, especially older patients, to take cognitive tests. Or a patient who is concerned about his or her own memory, may even ask to take the test. An inability to remember facts or solve problems could indicate memory loss or dementia. When things are not as they seem This was theContinueContinue reading “Things Are Not Always What They Seem”

Italian Worm Cheese and Culture Shock

Rows of round, pale cheese wheels mature on metal racks in a cool aging room, creating a warm, orderly artisanal food scene.

We have a saying in Italian. Non c’è niente di nuovo sotto il sole. (There is nothing new under the sun.) And yes, I know it’s from the Bible. But I also know that King Solomon, who wrote it, didn’t live in a foreign country. Otherwise, I wonder if he would have changed it to: “There is somethingContinueContinue reading “Italian Worm Cheese and Culture Shock”

Tradition and Cultural Adaptation

Four diverse coworkers gather indoors as two men shake hands in the foreground; two women watch and smile, conveying teamwork and agreement.

Adapting to different cultures is usually difficult and confusing, and quite challenging. Take the standard Italian greeting of a kiss on both cheeks. It’s really not as standard as you might think. Because many people here only touch cheek to cheek while kissing the air. And in many business or formal settings, a kiss onContinueContinue reading “Tradition and Cultural Adaptation”

That’s Not My Mom!

Silhouetted family of three walks along a beach at sunset, reflected in wet sand as waves roll in, creating a warm, peaceful mood.

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 doContinueContinue reading “That’s Not My Mom!”