Empty Nest Online

We hear a lot about Shady Pines whenever Sophia drops by and actually get to see it a time or two. She is often rushing back to the home for the latest social activity, which is usually something outrageous like a wheelchair demolition derby or a safe-sex seminar. She even wanders into the Weston living room carrying a chainsaw for lumberjack night.

Adding to the shock value trend, Sophia is seen in an array of costumes throughout the final two seasons. She becomes Laverne's biker boyfriend's new riding partner and strolls in clad in black leather; and attends a Shady Pines square dance with Harry dressed as a cute cowgirl. The photo at left is her attire from the gang's trip to Mardi Gras.

There are a few episodes that actually revolve around Sophia and don't just have her wandering in and out with jokes. When Laverne begins volunteering at Shady Pines, Sophia's boyfriend hits on her.  Sophia sees them together and assumes Laverne is trying to steal her man, which prompts her to put a curse on the nurse. 

In another episode, Sophia gets fed up with the strict rules of the Shady Pines manager and moves in with Harry. Her constant mothering and garlic fetish drives Harry to the verge of insanity but he can't bear to tell Sophia, who is like a mother to him, to leave. 

The addition of Sophia was a good idea, if only she had been used more for storylines instead of background. Despite not revitalizing the tiring Nest, seeing her familiar face and hearing the occasional "Picture it, Sicily" story makes her addition to the show a fun and unexpected move.