Nothing good ever comes of lusting for a hamburger so badly, that you can’t think of anything else.…
Today is the 23rd anniversary of my mom’s passing. She was a force of nature; making you crazy one minute, making you laugh the next. This story is proof. “Franzes!” I heard my mother’s irritated scream echoing along the metal hallways of the Queen Mary. My father and I exchanged knowing glances and knew our tour of the engine room was over. My dad loved seeing the ship’s quarters…
Baking• Dipping Sauces, Spreads, Marinades and Salad Dressings• Italian Mom Stories• Pizza• Thoughts on Life
The Power of Pizza
September 18, 2014
My daughter just started college a few weeks ago. I hate to admit it, but it’s nice to be able to take a break from my indentured servitude with the PTA. I think I served for 12 years. PTA years are like dog years, so that’s close to an average life expectancy I put in. I did what I had time to do, but there were women and…
Italian Mom Stories• Thoughts on Life
My Mom, Bob Barker, and the Enduring Power of Dreams
September 10, 2014
(September 23rd will be the 32nd anniversary of my mom’s big debut on national television. After this story, which was originally called, “Da Holy Hour.” I have an accompanying YouTube video of my mom in action. Watch it after you read the story. If you ever thought I was making any of this stuff up, this video will prove I’m not.) Some women love athletes, others love actors,…
Italian Mom Stories• Salads• Side Dishes• Vegan• Vegetables• Vegetarian
How My Italian Mom Weeded Out Prospective Suitors
August 8, 2014
It’s no surprise that I was 32 when I married. Frankly, I’m amazed I was that young because my mom had a way of winnowing out the weaker prospects pretty quickly. Any suitor who visited had to be warned about her because her childlike frankness left people stunned. To protect myself, I sat at the table with her, laughing too loud so whomever she was talking to knew…