I couldn't be more proud of my Italian heritage; from the food to the hospitality, I was blessed that half of my family is Italian. When I think of the many people in my life that shaped me, what first comes to mind is my Italian Grandma. The nana of an Italian family plays an essential role in the family structure, often looked to as the one to assist with helping to raise children and bringing the family together.

Let me tell you, if you don't already, you will wish you had an Italian Grandma.

1. Homemade Pasta and "Gravy"

There's so much that goes behind making homemade pasta, but it is so worth it compared to boiling a plain box of pasta. The dough is mixed together, then formed into sheets or various shapes, and finally cooked by boiling or baking. From spaghetti to ravioli and of course, lasagna, Gram could make it into whatever we were feeling. Then dress it up with gravy — the typical meat sauce is always at our disposal. No matter what, you could always open up Gram's fridge to heat up left over pasta for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

My favorite part? Having the honor of test trying before it reached the table.

2. Friday Pizza Nights

I loved Friday Nights at grandma's because it always meant PIZZA. Throw on some music, and we would dance around the kitchen tossing the dough up in the air. Gram would let us top it with absolutely anything we wanted. It was even more fun getting to make the pizza than eating it. But just thinking of thin crust with extra sauce has me drooling.

3. What language are they even speaking?

No matter the conversation, gram will be mumbling Italian words with any reaction. Most of the time, we repeat the common sayings: "That's amore", "Ciao Bella", "Grazie," and "Mangia". But no, that's not what grandma's muttering under her breath. What does "capo dost" or "gavone" even mean?

Also, there is never a point in time when an Italian’s hands aren’t in full motion during a conversation. What can I say? We like to spruce things up by adding in a few hand gestures here and there.

4. Sundays

To many non-Italians, Sunday might be a contender for least favorite day of the week. But, say the word “Sunday” to an Italian, and it’s likely he or she will identify it as a favorite.

No matter what could be going on in your life, Gram would make Sundays about one thing and one thing only: family. With all the younger cousins running around the house, the brave outside joining in a game of soccer consisting of absolutely no rules while grandpa tended his garden. And of course, ending with Sunday dinner at the table with more than enough food.

5. Her Personality

If you have never seen this video before, it perfectly describes Italian grandmothers. Some trying to be nice and complimentary to the chef, others plainly telling exactly how it is, the hand gestures, the red wine on the table. And, of course, "Mama Mia" and "merda".

Italian grandmothers are one of a kind— screaming over dinner, letting their opinions flow right from their mouths along with their warm hugs and constant care. Italians are known for being passionate and expressive, and why not have that in the form of a sweet and kind grandma. And if she’s like most grandmothers, she’ll always offer you more food than you need.