I was born and raised in northern England, in the great county of Yorkshire, I am a very proud Yorkshire girl. My roots are predominantly there but my ancestors were also from Scotland and Ireland. Our family is quite diverse, and I inherited a lot of great values and traditions that were passed down through generations of good wholesome people. However, we do have a couple of rebels in the family too! Growing up, my mother Pauline (Polly) and my grandmother Lilian were amazing cooks and bakers with delightful dishes for entertaining family and friends. Etiquette and good manners were extremely important. Every Sunday we would all come together to have ‘Sunday Dinner.’ I cherish these moments and miss the people who attended them immensely.
I came to America in the early ninety’s and met a wonderful man and have called America my home ever since. My husband is from an Italian and Polish background and we both try to keep all our traditions and values bundled together. I feel that it is important to know where you are from and who our ancestors were, because without those people, we wouldn’t exist today. I have been a military wife for thirty-three years. We have moved eighteen times and raised two wonderful boys. I refer to our life as the’ Navy Book of Life’, this book has many chapters.
Here is a poem I wrote a few years ago about being a Yorkshire Girl.
A GIRL FROM YORKSHIRE
I will always be a Yorkshire girl to my heart and spirit true,
Although I live so far away, I can never forget you.
My county, my beginnings, people, city and my culture
Your forward nature and your beauty helped guide me to my future.
An honest, hardworking morality that lacked nothing and made me strong,
A proud and stubborn identity, with pride we observe in song.
To you I owe my graciousness and empathy for others,
Our family values righteous, my father and my mother’s
Oh’ to walk those Yorkshire Dales a beauty so defined.
The sprawling river valleys with meadows lost in time.
Bluebells, bilberries, buttercups, daisies, and poppy’s red
I visit when I close my eyes, words are left unsaid.
Of Yorkshire folk, I am one, still wrapped up in their warmth.
A fine example of character, a woman from the north
In my heart, I carry you there so everyone can see,
When I return dear Yorkshire, please remember me.
Sharon Sciretta
Copyright 2024
