For the last few weeks, I have been trying to figure out exactly what I should be writing about on this Web site when I’m not in Italy. Yesterday, it finally hit me. The greatest stories I ever tell are about the wacky characters in my charming and gigantic Italian family.

Confucius may say, “Man who live in glass house should not throw stones.” But Big John say, “Man who has wife should make love in the woods at least once.” And it’s just as valid. From my Papa to Zia “Coochie Coo” Concettina to my boyfriend Antonio, they are my number one source for inspiration – and humor. When I need good advice, I usually turn to them. And I almost always walk away learning something. I bet they didn't even know I was paying attention. 

In honor of my family, I am going to start sharing the greatest advice they’ve ever given to me right here on the site in a column I’m calling “The Consiglieri.” For those of you who don’t know, “consiglieri” is the Italian word for advisors. Yes, I know the guys in those mafia movies use the term all the time. But most Italian Americans – and certainly the members of my family – are law abiding citizens, who don’t even know mobsters. Please refrain from sending me e-mail saying this title is offensive. I think it’s ironic because of how straight laced most of my relatives are.

I chose the name “consiglieri” also because my relatives are my closest advisers. If I’m the CEO of my life, then they are the board members. They have been guiding me from day one – and I definitely think twice about major life moves based on what they tell me. I think we can all gain a thing or two by listening to what they have to say. And they’re entertaining to boot.

I hope you enjoy getting to know them. “The Consiglieri” will run on this site every Wednesday starting next week. It should be fun, and I hope you all tune in to the column. Have a great rest of the week and weekend!