Our eyes meet as the paramedics jog the gurney away from me down the dreadfully long hall hurrying toward the waiting ambulance. I attempt a reassuring aspect but fail miserably. His color changes from pasty white to gray in an instant. He struggles to breathe. I hold my breath. I swallow a sob as I... Continue Reading →
Secret Santa
Pick a classmate’s name out of a bowl, keep it a secret, sneak nice notes or small treats into their desk, share a present at the school Christmas party and reveal your identity. Sounds simple, right? If you’re familiar with the Secret Santa game, you’ll know that it’s played in a group during the Christmas... Continue Reading →
The Angry Doll
When our eyes connect the electricity takes my breath away. We belong together; no doubt about it. She’d strolled past nonchalantly, dreamily browsing. I willed her to look at me. She walked by without the slightest pause. Geez, maybe this wasn't meant to be – again. I startled when she took two steps backward, looking... Continue Reading →
Waiting on Remy
I sit in the pink semi-darkness of the growing dawn staring into the beautiful eyes of this tiny boy. I am overwhelmed. My breath catches, an ache in my throat, a sob of joy and fear. Fear of the future and joy for what it holds for him. He stares directly back at me.... Continue Reading →
American- Italian
America, 1914, destination Ellis Island. June 29 marked the beginning of my Italian family in the United States; the day Paul Vittori married Nina. Odd to outsiders, our Italian culture is constructed of a peculiar menagerie of food, jokes, and discipline. Experiencing a life-long food romance, Italians know there is nothing quite like waking up... Continue Reading →