• Marriage & Keeping Intimacy

    Long Line of Love

    I met my husband Bobby in September of 1981, and just three months later, I was headed to Western New York for Christmas to meet his entire family. They hadn’t even heard my name until Bobby called to say he was bringing me to the festivities. I only caught his side of the conversation, but one thing was clear—his mom thought I was too young for him. Gulp. As we walked up to his parents’ front door, I heard a boisterous yell and the sound of running feet. The door flew open, and a laughing, beautiful woman launched herself into Bobby’s arms. They hugged and kissed, words tumbling over each…

  • Marriage & Keeping Intimacy

    These Are My Friends

    My cousin recently visited Italy. While he was there, he stayed with friends at an Airbnb.  They were trying to decide where to eat one night, and their host got wind of it. He came over and told them about a great place a short walk away. He then charmingly escorted them to the restaurant, introduced them to the owners, and with arms outstretched, he boisterously exclaimed “These are my friends. Make them fat!” I love this story! Who wouldn’t want to be welcomed like this?!? I come from a long line of hospitable people. My paternal grandparents were Italian immigrants from Castel Frentano. They had 12 children and not…

  • Dating & Finding Love

    What to Know Before Choosing a Spouse

     The below is a letter I wrote to my eight nieces and nephews about what to know before choosing a spouse. I still pray for each one of them every day. I think I always will. Wanna eavesdrop on my conversation? I’ll also be praying that you or someone you love will be blessed by this letter, and you’ll learn about choosing a spouse. I’ll also share at the bottom something I wrote about where to look to find the right partner. I hope it helps you, too. Important decisions are on the horizon I have been thinking a lot about each of you, how much I love you, and…