Elderly couples and swollen ankles

The elderly population in Spain is so crazy that sometimes I feel like I'm at home in Florida. But these Spanish women are tough ... I wouldn't mess with them.\nI mean, I know my señora is bad to the bone, and when we go out for café con leche, I know no one is going to mess with me and no men are going to whistle my way. These women know what they want and what it takes to get it. They really seem strong in an emotional sense. For example, my señora has a problem with her leg. She had an operation on it last year, but rarely complains. She even has to go to the doctor to get it checked but will never show how much it hurts. \nMy señor on the other hand, he gets a cold and takes time off of work and goes to bed early. Maybe I put in minimal exaggeration here, but nonetheless, these women are determined.\nBut another thing I've noticed is this: Many elderly women here have swollen ankles. My conclusion is that it is because they wear high heels all their lives. My 61-year-old señora still wears them when she goes out. Everywhere I look I see oversized, bloated ankles, and they still wear the heels. I asked my señora the other day why she didn't wear tennis shoes like I do, and she looked at me like I was crazy. Then again, she dresses up to go out. I can't say I do that unless I'm going out at night.\nThe elderly couples are pretty affectionate here. The other day, my friend and I were walking home when we saw this couple in their mid-50s making out on the sidewalk. When I say "making out," I mean this guy was basically eating her face. Our jaws dropped because this is not something you see every day in the United States. Even the older couples hold hands, give pecks on the cheek here, and the men open the doors for their wives with bulging ankles. I see this everyday, and only every so often at home. It's actually kind of cute. What happened to that kind of chivalry in the States?\nAs much as I would like to surprise you all with what you'll be reading next time, I'll tell you anyway: Spanish thoughts on American stereotypes. I know you are all just so excited for the next read, and hey, I'm excited to write it.