Sannella – Many Branches, One Tree

Sentimental Sunday: To the Mothers in Our Lives

Happy Mother’s Day Feliz Día de las Madres Bonne Fête des Mères Buona Festa della Mamma Hyvää äitienpäivää Lá na Máthar Shona ar No matter what your language, “Mother” is the sweetest word of all. Margaret McCoy Born Ireland (abt. 1823 – abt. 1857) Catherine O’Grady Born Waterford, Ireland (abt. 1835 … Continue reading

Ralph Schiavon – Part Four: Twilight

Ralph Schiavon January 27, 1898 – August 16, 1970 Twilight (Last in a four part series about my wonderful grandfather) Ralph Schiavon, at train station, Chicago (date unknown) My grandmother Alice had lost her eyesight in the early 60s. Her diabetes worsened, and she died at home on New Year’s Day in 1963. My parents … Continue reading

Ralph Schiavon – Part One: Auspicious Beginnings

Ralph Schiavon Born January 27, 1898 Died August 16, 1970 The following is Part One of a four-part series on the life of my wonderful Italian grandfather. Auspicious Beginnings My maternal grandfather, Ralph Schiavon, was one of those rare children born with a veil over his head. The “veil,” known medically … Continue reading