Stinky Subway Love

Lately Italian Boy and I have gone through some heartbreaking hardships. We've had to experience the "for better and for worse.. in sickness and in health" parts of our vows early on in our marriage. Through it all Ciccio has reminded me why I said yes to marriage after dating for only two months.

My family and friends thought I was crazy for jumping into this life long commitment with a foreigner. "Are you on Drugs?" "Is it for a green card?" These were just some of the "congrats" I received when sharing the engagement news with loved ones. I didn't blame them for questioning my intentions. It was crazy, but I just knew I couldn't let Ciccio go. 

One of the defining moments came when we were riding the subway from his place in Astoria, Queens to Manhattan. Ciccio rode along with me to my work even though he had no reason to go into the city. It was crowded and there was only one seat available. He insisted I take it and instead of standing and hanging onto the rail, Ciccio squatted down so he could be with me at eye level. 

Ciccio in front of our old subway stop

Me: "You don't have to do that Ciccio..it must be so uncomfortable"

Ciccio: "No, it's not. I want to talk and look at Monica Lombardo"

Two and half years later, I sit here sick, stinky and emotional. He has been waiting on me hand and foot and telling me he likes our "stinky love". I don't know what the future will hold. Our lives might get better and they might get worse, but as long as I have my Ciccione, I'll be just fine.