For anyone who is searching for a way to express affection, I thoroughly recommend the old Italian custom of cheek pinching.

I grew up with Dad, Grandma and Grandpa Renzetti, and Aunt Joan taking a firm hold of a chunk of cheek and pinching it with pride. I started it with Frostie and Ronnie. And it's funny. This is a gesture of affection Ronnie never pulls away from in fact, he's even returned it once or twice, kind of playfully getting even. He's got such soft, smooth cheeks that are a delight to pinch! He hasn't lost his baby fat!

So the Italians have discovered a good thing! After all, life's simple pleasures are the best.