life in italy – Page 2 – Signora Sheila

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”

Our Towns: Where is Home?

Historic stone arch bridge spans a wooded gorge beneath misty hills, with a modern roadway and metal guardrail in the foreground.

Our Towns is really our Tale of Two Houses. Ah, the complex fascination of life overseas (challenging, frustrating, but so blessed)! In fact, new acquaintances often ask, “So where are you from?” Our response? “Um, do you have an easier question?” So, to cut a long story short… Having lived all over the USA and Italy, with aContinueContinue reading “Our Towns: Where is Home?”

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!”

Italian Newspapers: Thoughts of the Past

White cappuccino cup with heart-shaped latte art on a saucer and spoon, resting on a newspaper-covered café table; warm, cozy atmosphere.

As a child, I remember my father poring over the Daily News, our local newspaper. Every evening, since ours didn’t have a morning edition, he’d sit in his easy chair, newspaper in hand. Slippers on his feet. For some reason, red flannel plaid slippers come to mind. Although I’m sure he had other kinds over theContinueContinue reading “Italian Newspapers: Thoughts of the Past”

Italian Towns: A Journey Into the Past

Steep cobblestone street in a quiet Italian hillside village, lined with old stone homes, descending toward green mountains in bright daylight.

Walking through Italian villages is like a journey into the past. Another time, another way of life. Everything speaks of times gone by. From narrow cobbled streets, to ancient buildings. The ever-present scent of wood smoke fills the air, transporting the mind to slower days. When whole families gathered round the fire for warmth, chestnuts roastingContinueContinue reading “Italian Towns: A Journey Into the Past”

Old and Abandoned: On Homes Forgotten

Old red stucco farmhouse with tiled roofs stands among vineyard rows and trees on a rugged hillside, conveying rustic serenity.

As we travel around the countryside, old abandoned houses like this one are a common sight. And they always fill my heart with sadness. A sort of longing for what must have been. I imagine cozy families gathered around the hearth, children playing in the garden. And whole families gathering produce from once-flourishing fields andContinueContinue reading “Old and Abandoned: On Homes Forgotten”