Hello to all,
I hope this email is finding you all happy and healthy. As for me, happy yes, healthy no. I have determined through self diagnosis that I have bronchitis. I know this because I have had it probably 30 times in my life. Luckily, no prescription is needed here for antibiotics as long as you plead a good case with the pharmacist. I did good. Now I know I will finally start getting better. In that case, I am afraid I no pictures, nor many events to share because, honestly, I have been sleeping a ton and staying close to home.
However, I still have plenty of time to think about who I am and what I am doing here, which I could write about for hours and hours!
I have decided that travelling is much like reading a book or watching a movie. A first visit, read, or watch is somewhat superficial, as there is little previous experience or background knowledge given to you. When I came to Florence almost ten years ago, it was for one day. I had hardly taken the time to research the city and our trip was so fast and jumbled, I really had not impression at all. It compares to watching something like JFK. The film is so big and full of details, theories (about the assassination and about film), and nuances. It is impossible to take it all in in one leap.
My next trip was 5 years ago, actually, almost six. My experience was different for three reasons: I had done research on Florence, I could speak Italian, and I stayed her for a long period of time. In this time, I was able to observe Italy and Italians. I grew accustomed to their time frame, their food, and their culture. I adopted it as it was the reason for me studying abroad. Yet, it was still a little superficial. I may have been here to learn about and to feel Florence, but I was still living in a little bubble, a safety net if you will. I had and American doctor to go to, teachers who spoke English, and a ton of American friends in my program. I may have wanted to meet Italians on that trip, but I really did not. My aga was also a factor. I was 19, coming to a country where it was legal for me to drink, and offered a plethora of restaurants, bars, and clubs to haunt as the American students before me had done. Florence is such a popular destination for American Students, it is easy to get an impression and all the ins before you even get here.
So, this brings me to right now. My experience today in Florence. It is, as the second is from the first, a whole new world. I have previous experience and contextual background to start from, allowing me to analyse everything more complexly. I know the characters better, the setting. I have not come to party and visit all of my old places... I don't need that now. What I want tis to transcend the title of tourist and feel what it is like to be an Italian, to be a local. I can do this because I have taken the previous steps. I am now an expert on the film of Florence, in a sense. Yet, this process will never be finished. You can always learn and see more. It just depends on how you are looking. As we grow, we can always look back at many things in our life and see them a different way: a job, a heartbreak, a relationship, etc.
And who said I never learned anything important in film school? Thanks Ernie.
OK, sooo serious, I know. I can't always be funny. I really have no material. However, I will ease all of your minds by saying I am really keeping up good Italo-American relations. Just today I walked by a store and an Italian boy said, "God bless America for all these beautiful girls." No matter how bad politics get, they will always appreciate the beautiful girls!
Today I did laundry. The last time I did it was sort of a nightmare. I have a washer in my apartment, but no dryer. So, I went ahead and let them dry naturally. It took two days and all of my clothes were stretched out and too big. So, today I gave in and hauled my washed, wet clothes, to the laundromat and paid a small fortune to dry them. Worth every penny. There is something really comforting in a domestic schedule, especially when you are away from home. I can't just have fun and be out all the time I am hear. The luxury of coming for a long stay is being able to have days of relaxation and normalcy without feeling like you are wasting your time.
OK. I have a question. People keep telling me it is not good to eat gelato when you have a cough because it is cold. Ummmm, hello, I never heard this one. Are they just trying to trick me because them saying it makes me want to run out and get some right now. Hmmmm, dinner, gelato. Dinner, gelato...............
Oh man.. There is the cutest little Italian kid in here talking up a storm. i swear, whenever I hear a little shoot off in Italian, I feel like they have to be some super smart kids to be able to speak such a fun and crazy language. Of course I know that they grew up learning Italian, blah blah. It still just catches me by suprise and entertains me to no end. My kids MUST learn Italian!
OK. I promise to do something really fun tomorrow to blow you all away with! There are no more towers to climb, but I still have to climb the dome. I may need a few days for that. Until then, I hope you are all doing well and remembering to look at things differently if you are not liking what you see!
Ciao e Tanti Bacci!
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Italian Sand Through The American Eyeglass: 10/28/06
I know you have all missed me so, and let me tell you, I just had quite crazy days of late.
As you know, I decided to head to Siena for two nights, allowing myself to take a bus to Pienza and Montepulciano on Friday. Things just did not start out right to begin with. I awoke Thursday morning with a tight chest and scratchy throat. I figured it was just a little irritation due to the smog in Florence. So, I had a leisulry morning, as I did not feel well and packed my stuff. I left on a bus to Siena around 11. I was about 3/4 of the way there when I realized I forgot cash, my ATM card, and my passport, which is needed to check into any hotel in Europe. DUH! Well, let me say this: Thank God for parents, credit cards, fax machines, and Western Union. My parents were able to fax the copy of my passport that I left with them (THANK GOD I DID THAT) and then mom and I decided she could wire me some money.
By the time this was done, I was too tired to walk all the way to Western Union for the money, so decided to do it in the morning on my way to my day trip. Friday morning, I awake. Now I know this is no irritation. I have a cough and a sore throat and feel quite icky. No matter, I jump up and get ready. It takes me about an hour to find the Western Union. Great! There, he tells me I need my passport to get money. Ok, I am lame: It started to cry. I could not beleive it. In the end, he was able to accept my ID and there I was with money, ready to go. So what do I do? Well, I walk to the bus station, as it is a reasonable place to catch a bus. Wrong! I needed to catch the Pienza bus at the train station which was another 30-40 minute walk. By then it was about 11:30 and I gave up. It was too late to head out and I felt like I was going to faint. I went to my room and slept for two hours, then made it out for some sight seeing around Siena. It was beautiful and it was good to be close to my hotel, as my ailment was just getting worse, despite the use of 3 medications. In reality, the meds were probably just making me feel worse.
I went to the basilica in Siena which is by far my favorite in Italy that I have seen. It is so unique and decorated. Unfortunately they are doing renovation to the front, so I could not take pics of it for you. I also visited the bapistry for the first time. Then I was off and, despite feeling icky, I climbed the tower in the center of town. It was beautiful up there. I had the luxury of being up there all by myself which was both peaceful, and conducive to taking a million self portraits before getting a good one. It would have been a little embarassing if people had been watching!
After the climb and a tour of the Civic Museum, it was time to rest, so I headed to bed. At some point I developed a tummy ache. I have decided that the best diet in Italy is the stomach flu, or some wonderful exotic mosquito disease. Luckily, I think it was the ibupfofen that was my prob. I forced myself to eat some pizza and salad and was right on track again. It also probably did not help that at lunch I could not read the handwritten menu, so I think I ordered something that wasn't made with beef, but some other meat I probably would not eat otherwise. I was too scared to ask.
And at last: checking out. Well, I guess my hearing is getting really bad because on the phone I thought that the room with no private bath was on 28 euro. That is why I chose two nights and NO PRIVATE BATHROOM! Well, with an Italian Accent, 28 sounds a lot like 48. As for the no private bath, i was a little worried. I like my privacy in the bath. I kept imagining that part in National Lampoon's Euro. Vacation when Ellen is in the bathtub of their non-private hotel bathroom in England. She has a wash cloth over her eys, so does not realize that the whistling man who just entered is not her hsband, but a big stranger. She talks very suggestively to him and finally takes her washcloth off as he is about ready to strip down and jump in with her. My experience was just fine. In fact, I wonder if anyone was even using my bathroom. Oh right, the fact that there was shit on the floor at one point means that there was. So maybe, it was a little wierd!
Now, I am not saying the trip was a total waste. I love Siena and it was a good place to be mellow in. I did have a gelato in the campo for you Kells. In my life of travelling, I have been so fortunate to never encounter a big problem. This weekend was my first and I am positive it ensures that the rest of my journey will be smooth sailing. The extended stay in Siena gave me a chance to take some great pics. As for my sickness, I am definitely sick. My friend gave me some decongestant which has turned me into a fountain of crud, and made me a little loopy. It is kind of fun! I think it is only natural to being prone to a cold when your body enters a new environment. Florence is gorgeous, but small with many people. It just is not the cleanest place ever, especially me living right by the river. But I love it and am glad to be back! I have learned a valuable lesson in the past few days: pack the night before and don't be stupid my remembering the hair dryer, but forgetting the important stuff.
I also wanted to let you know that my house is basically sandwiched between the Carabinieri (police) and the hospital. So, for those of you worried about my accident prone self (sister) I am very close to help!
I am sure there is a ton more I want to say, but am kind of out of it. I am off to my home for a rest and a nice long shower, then I am off to dinner with my friend Alex and his friends. I really look forward to being around people. being sick and alone can be sad when all you want is for your mommy to make you grilled cheese with tomato soup. That just doesn't happen here.
Love to you all!
Tanti Bacci!
Interior of the Basilica in Siena
The Tower in Siena's City Center
View From Tower Top
As you know, I decided to head to Siena for two nights, allowing myself to take a bus to Pienza and Montepulciano on Friday. Things just did not start out right to begin with. I awoke Thursday morning with a tight chest and scratchy throat. I figured it was just a little irritation due to the smog in Florence. So, I had a leisulry morning, as I did not feel well and packed my stuff. I left on a bus to Siena around 11. I was about 3/4 of the way there when I realized I forgot cash, my ATM card, and my passport, which is needed to check into any hotel in Europe. DUH! Well, let me say this: Thank God for parents, credit cards, fax machines, and Western Union. My parents were able to fax the copy of my passport that I left with them (THANK GOD I DID THAT) and then mom and I decided she could wire me some money.
By the time this was done, I was too tired to walk all the way to Western Union for the money, so decided to do it in the morning on my way to my day trip. Friday morning, I awake. Now I know this is no irritation. I have a cough and a sore throat and feel quite icky. No matter, I jump up and get ready. It takes me about an hour to find the Western Union. Great! There, he tells me I need my passport to get money. Ok, I am lame: It started to cry. I could not beleive it. In the end, he was able to accept my ID and there I was with money, ready to go. So what do I do? Well, I walk to the bus station, as it is a reasonable place to catch a bus. Wrong! I needed to catch the Pienza bus at the train station which was another 30-40 minute walk. By then it was about 11:30 and I gave up. It was too late to head out and I felt like I was going to faint. I went to my room and slept for two hours, then made it out for some sight seeing around Siena. It was beautiful and it was good to be close to my hotel, as my ailment was just getting worse, despite the use of 3 medications. In reality, the meds were probably just making me feel worse.
I went to the basilica in Siena which is by far my favorite in Italy that I have seen. It is so unique and decorated. Unfortunately they are doing renovation to the front, so I could not take pics of it for you. I also visited the bapistry for the first time. Then I was off and, despite feeling icky, I climbed the tower in the center of town. It was beautiful up there. I had the luxury of being up there all by myself which was both peaceful, and conducive to taking a million self portraits before getting a good one. It would have been a little embarassing if people had been watching!
After the climb and a tour of the Civic Museum, it was time to rest, so I headed to bed. At some point I developed a tummy ache. I have decided that the best diet in Italy is the stomach flu, or some wonderful exotic mosquito disease. Luckily, I think it was the ibupfofen that was my prob. I forced myself to eat some pizza and salad and was right on track again. It also probably did not help that at lunch I could not read the handwritten menu, so I think I ordered something that wasn't made with beef, but some other meat I probably would not eat otherwise. I was too scared to ask.
And at last: checking out. Well, I guess my hearing is getting really bad because on the phone I thought that the room with no private bath was on 28 euro. That is why I chose two nights and NO PRIVATE BATHROOM! Well, with an Italian Accent, 28 sounds a lot like 48. As for the no private bath, i was a little worried. I like my privacy in the bath. I kept imagining that part in National Lampoon's Euro. Vacation when Ellen is in the bathtub of their non-private hotel bathroom in England. She has a wash cloth over her eys, so does not realize that the whistling man who just entered is not her hsband, but a big stranger. She talks very suggestively to him and finally takes her washcloth off as he is about ready to strip down and jump in with her. My experience was just fine. In fact, I wonder if anyone was even using my bathroom. Oh right, the fact that there was shit on the floor at one point means that there was. So maybe, it was a little wierd!
Now, I am not saying the trip was a total waste. I love Siena and it was a good place to be mellow in. I did have a gelato in the campo for you Kells. In my life of travelling, I have been so fortunate to never encounter a big problem. This weekend was my first and I am positive it ensures that the rest of my journey will be smooth sailing. The extended stay in Siena gave me a chance to take some great pics. As for my sickness, I am definitely sick. My friend gave me some decongestant which has turned me into a fountain of crud, and made me a little loopy. It is kind of fun! I think it is only natural to being prone to a cold when your body enters a new environment. Florence is gorgeous, but small with many people. It just is not the cleanest place ever, especially me living right by the river. But I love it and am glad to be back! I have learned a valuable lesson in the past few days: pack the night before and don't be stupid my remembering the hair dryer, but forgetting the important stuff.
I also wanted to let you know that my house is basically sandwiched between the Carabinieri (police) and the hospital. So, for those of you worried about my accident prone self (sister) I am very close to help!
I am sure there is a ton more I want to say, but am kind of out of it. I am off to my home for a rest and a nice long shower, then I am off to dinner with my friend Alex and his friends. I really look forward to being around people. being sick and alone can be sad when all you want is for your mommy to make you grilled cheese with tomato soup. That just doesn't happen here.
Love to you all!
Tanti Bacci!
Interior of the Basilica in Siena
The Tower in Siena's City Center
View From Tower Top
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Italian Sand Through The American Eyeglass: 10/25/06
Hello all,
Tonight will be alittle short, as nothing much has happened. I also have no pics. However, I wanted to check in because I will be heading to Siena for 2 days and probably will not have internet access.
So, I had a pretty mellow day. I went to Pitti Palace yesterday and saw three museums, plus the Boboli Gardens, so I was a little tired, which is a strange since I was in by ten and aleep by 11. You see, my night life has dwindled. As it turns out Benjamin is really just not such a nice guy anymore. Apart from having no ability to cmmunicate on any level, he is boring and seems to think I have some sort of exclusive allegiance to him. Apparently a friend not calling one night due to needed alone time is not cool in his land. Whatever. Like I said he is boring and I had a hard time translating one grunt from the next.
So, today I decided to go clothes shopping because I have no clothes for warm weather and it is friggin' summer here. That is why there are so many mosquitos. I now have 20 (that I know of) mosquito bites. For Halloween , I think I will go as a vampire, as I have two perfect bites on my neck, perfectly spaced, right on the jugular. I also have 4 more on my face. I also have one on the BOTTOM of my foot. It is quite miserable and the spray may not be working, duh! I am sure it doesn't help to go looking for clothes that would cover less of my body, but it is too hot for pants and walking. Well, I found no clothes. Everything here is either too expensive or too funky. What I would not give for a Ross right now. I did find a cute skirt which will go a long way.
Thanks to Mrs. Rose Metivier, I had a wonderful lunch at The Yellow Bar. The Spaghetti alla Carbonara was great and the portions were huge. Unfortunately I forgot that I am allergic to some types of parmesan, and sometimes lemon, so the mix of the two on my salad made my gums and mouth ache pretty bad. Now they are irritated. Mmmm, didn't you want to hear that. What a wierd allergy, the only one I have.
I also decided to treat myself to a pedicure today. Um, it was a pretty wierd experience. Instead of sitting in one of those nice massage chairs, I was made to sit on a waxing table with my knees up to put into a little portable foot bath. Really, it was not unlike my annual girl doctor visit. No wait, it was less pleasant than that. How do you say, ''Oh my God, it feels like you are ripping chunks of my skin off piece by piece with your toe nail clippers,'' in Italian? At least I have pretty toes.
And on to icky italian men. When one of them says to you that you have a nice ass as you walk by, be patient and realize he has not seen your ass and what he is really saying is you have nice eyes. Really, be calm, there is no need to yell at him and give him the stare of Medusa.
I cannot wait for my trip to Siena. It will be a nice change in pace. I will hang there tomorrow and then take a bus from there to Pienza and Montalcino on Friday. Then, I head back to Siena and home on Sat morning. I look forward to it. Maybe there will be less mosquiti. I made a new friend today and we plan to do some dinner later with his friends. By friends, I mean some girls too. What I would not give for some estrogen these days! His name is Alex and he speaks English perfectly. On top, he is smart, so I am finally finding myself in adult company. God knows I am ready!
Love to you all!
Tanti Bacci!
Tonight will be alittle short, as nothing much has happened. I also have no pics. However, I wanted to check in because I will be heading to Siena for 2 days and probably will not have internet access.
So, I had a pretty mellow day. I went to Pitti Palace yesterday and saw three museums, plus the Boboli Gardens, so I was a little tired, which is a strange since I was in by ten and aleep by 11. You see, my night life has dwindled. As it turns out Benjamin is really just not such a nice guy anymore. Apart from having no ability to cmmunicate on any level, he is boring and seems to think I have some sort of exclusive allegiance to him. Apparently a friend not calling one night due to needed alone time is not cool in his land. Whatever. Like I said he is boring and I had a hard time translating one grunt from the next.
So, today I decided to go clothes shopping because I have no clothes for warm weather and it is friggin' summer here. That is why there are so many mosquitos. I now have 20 (that I know of) mosquito bites. For Halloween , I think I will go as a vampire, as I have two perfect bites on my neck, perfectly spaced, right on the jugular. I also have 4 more on my face. I also have one on the BOTTOM of my foot. It is quite miserable and the spray may not be working, duh! I am sure it doesn't help to go looking for clothes that would cover less of my body, but it is too hot for pants and walking. Well, I found no clothes. Everything here is either too expensive or too funky. What I would not give for a Ross right now. I did find a cute skirt which will go a long way.
Thanks to Mrs. Rose Metivier, I had a wonderful lunch at The Yellow Bar. The Spaghetti alla Carbonara was great and the portions were huge. Unfortunately I forgot that I am allergic to some types of parmesan, and sometimes lemon, so the mix of the two on my salad made my gums and mouth ache pretty bad. Now they are irritated. Mmmm, didn't you want to hear that. What a wierd allergy, the only one I have.
I also decided to treat myself to a pedicure today. Um, it was a pretty wierd experience. Instead of sitting in one of those nice massage chairs, I was made to sit on a waxing table with my knees up to put into a little portable foot bath. Really, it was not unlike my annual girl doctor visit. No wait, it was less pleasant than that. How do you say, ''Oh my God, it feels like you are ripping chunks of my skin off piece by piece with your toe nail clippers,'' in Italian? At least I have pretty toes.
And on to icky italian men. When one of them says to you that you have a nice ass as you walk by, be patient and realize he has not seen your ass and what he is really saying is you have nice eyes. Really, be calm, there is no need to yell at him and give him the stare of Medusa.
I cannot wait for my trip to Siena. It will be a nice change in pace. I will hang there tomorrow and then take a bus from there to Pienza and Montalcino on Friday. Then, I head back to Siena and home on Sat morning. I look forward to it. Maybe there will be less mosquiti. I made a new friend today and we plan to do some dinner later with his friends. By friends, I mean some girls too. What I would not give for some estrogen these days! His name is Alex and he speaks English perfectly. On top, he is smart, so I am finally finding myself in adult company. God knows I am ready!
Love to you all!
Tanti Bacci!
Monday, October 23, 2006
Italian Sand Through the American Eyeglass: 10/23/06
I have had a great couple of days. Yesterday was pretty mellow. I began by climbing the Duomo's bell tower, aka the campanile, aka Giotto's Tower. Sorry aunt Gretch, there are no Giotto frescoes in this one. However, the climb did afford some beautiful views of the city on what was, as you can see, a beautiful day. I definitely felt the burn as I climbed the stairs, but I made it ok. Luckily there were a few levels to stop on, allowing me to catch my breath in between.
After that I went home for some, you guessed it, pasta and then headed out on a lovely, leisurly walk across the river. I had planned on going to the Brancacci chapels, but it was kaputz once I got there. I keep forgetting to make appointments at all of these places. Anyhow, it was a great walk because I happened upon a poster advertizing a performance of the opera, La Boheme. I have always wanted to see it and was bummed that the opera house here will not be showing it until January. However, there is a tiny, English church here that has a series of abridged concerts throughout the year. Well, the nice thing about not having anyone around is that I never have plans, so it was easy to call up and reserve a spot at the last minute. You guys, it was amazing. This concert is exactly why I want to do things like travel to Florence. This church was a mini mini cathedral, so it was old and very beautiful. They did the opera in 4 parts and only had the characters Rodolfo, Mimi, Musetta, and Marcello. These singers were unbeleivable, as were the acoustics. Imagine sitting in a pew with an opera singer belting full force while he stands two feet from you. By the way, Robby Bringolf has a twin: an opera singer from Denmark. Who knew? Really, it was such a memorable night and I feel so lucky to have come across it when I did. Last night was the last show.
Today I went to Pisa to see the leaning tower and the other members of the Field of Miracles. The Field of Miracles includes the tower, the duomo, the bapistry, and the cemetery. It is an amazing spot because all of the important aspects of an Italian life in Pisa happened right here: birth, marriage, death. And.... I did climb the tower. It was worth it. Someone took a great pic of me up there and it was so beautiful and breezy. It was crazy to climb. The stairs spiral up and around the tower, so as you climb you are waxing and waning against a force to avoid hitting the outer wall or the inner wall. Mom, I am not sure you would have made it. I felt a little dizzy going up and then once you are up on the open top, it is a little funky. Walking up was tough as I tried my best not to focus on the girls butt crack that was sticking out infront of me. I swear, low rise is not always a good idea. As I descended, the only thing that bothered me was how in the hell I had managed to get behind the same girl, allowing me a view directly down into the abyss.
Really, everywhere I look there are grossish things going on. Just yesterday I observed two old Italian men walking and talking gesticulatively like any Italian would. I thought, 'Oh, how cute!" Until one of them ripped the biggest fart I have ever heard... at least in public. To add injury to insult, as I walked to my home yesterday afternoon, I saw a boyfriend stop his girlfriend in the middle of the side walk, examine her face, and then proceed to pop what I guess was a white head on her cheek. This matched nicely with the girl who sat next to me on the train, also grooming the mini vesuvi on her face.
Like I should really talk. For the past week I have been trying to figure out where all these damn bites are coming from. As many of you know, Italy has its share of wierd bed bugs and lice. EEEWWWW! Luckily, I have finally figured out that I am daily being fed upon by mosquitos. At home, the things don't even touch me. Here, I am breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Now tell me: who here has ever had a mosquito bite on their palm? Yeah, well I have two. I have turned into an itch fest and can only imagine what foreign diseases the monsters are pumping into my body as they steal my blood. Aparently mosquitos are really bad here in the fall. However, i will take mosquitos over lce, bed bugs, and silverfish any day. Icky!!!
I have included in the many pics a pic of a wine door. A lot of the old houses and palazzi have these little doors along the wall on the street where in the old old days, wine merchants would leave the weekly , monthly, whatever, supply of wine. I also discovered, as I walked to the train station early, that morning is the greatest time to be out in Florence. A lot of places are not open and there are no too many tourists. It makes it easier to get pics without a ton of people in them, and the sun shiing on the buildings is beautiful. i cannot wait for bigger puddles!
Well, I guess that is all the news I have. I met a very nice Canadian at the concert last night and he told me there is a free concert at the same church tonight, but I am not sure what. So, we may meet up there. Honestly, I am exhausted and have so much laundry to do. Might I add it all has to dry the old fashion way.. with no dryer. Cool man.
I hope you are all doing well and enjoy the pics. Lots of love!
Tanti Bacci!
PISA
Duomo: Santa Maria Del Fiore in Firenze
After that I went home for some, you guessed it, pasta and then headed out on a lovely, leisurly walk across the river. I had planned on going to the Brancacci chapels, but it was kaputz once I got there. I keep forgetting to make appointments at all of these places. Anyhow, it was a great walk because I happened upon a poster advertizing a performance of the opera, La Boheme. I have always wanted to see it and was bummed that the opera house here will not be showing it until January. However, there is a tiny, English church here that has a series of abridged concerts throughout the year. Well, the nice thing about not having anyone around is that I never have plans, so it was easy to call up and reserve a spot at the last minute. You guys, it was amazing. This concert is exactly why I want to do things like travel to Florence. This church was a mini mini cathedral, so it was old and very beautiful. They did the opera in 4 parts and only had the characters Rodolfo, Mimi, Musetta, and Marcello. These singers were unbeleivable, as were the acoustics. Imagine sitting in a pew with an opera singer belting full force while he stands two feet from you. By the way, Robby Bringolf has a twin: an opera singer from Denmark. Who knew? Really, it was such a memorable night and I feel so lucky to have come across it when I did. Last night was the last show.
Today I went to Pisa to see the leaning tower and the other members of the Field of Miracles. The Field of Miracles includes the tower, the duomo, the bapistry, and the cemetery. It is an amazing spot because all of the important aspects of an Italian life in Pisa happened right here: birth, marriage, death. And.... I did climb the tower. It was worth it. Someone took a great pic of me up there and it was so beautiful and breezy. It was crazy to climb. The stairs spiral up and around the tower, so as you climb you are waxing and waning against a force to avoid hitting the outer wall or the inner wall. Mom, I am not sure you would have made it. I felt a little dizzy going up and then once you are up on the open top, it is a little funky. Walking up was tough as I tried my best not to focus on the girls butt crack that was sticking out infront of me. I swear, low rise is not always a good idea. As I descended, the only thing that bothered me was how in the hell I had managed to get behind the same girl, allowing me a view directly down into the abyss.
Really, everywhere I look there are grossish things going on. Just yesterday I observed two old Italian men walking and talking gesticulatively like any Italian would. I thought, 'Oh, how cute!" Until one of them ripped the biggest fart I have ever heard... at least in public. To add injury to insult, as I walked to my home yesterday afternoon, I saw a boyfriend stop his girlfriend in the middle of the side walk, examine her face, and then proceed to pop what I guess was a white head on her cheek. This matched nicely with the girl who sat next to me on the train, also grooming the mini vesuvi on her face.
Like I should really talk. For the past week I have been trying to figure out where all these damn bites are coming from. As many of you know, Italy has its share of wierd bed bugs and lice. EEEWWWW! Luckily, I have finally figured out that I am daily being fed upon by mosquitos. At home, the things don't even touch me. Here, I am breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Now tell me: who here has ever had a mosquito bite on their palm? Yeah, well I have two. I have turned into an itch fest and can only imagine what foreign diseases the monsters are pumping into my body as they steal my blood. Aparently mosquitos are really bad here in the fall. However, i will take mosquitos over lce, bed bugs, and silverfish any day. Icky!!!
I have included in the many pics a pic of a wine door. A lot of the old houses and palazzi have these little doors along the wall on the street where in the old old days, wine merchants would leave the weekly , monthly, whatever, supply of wine. I also discovered, as I walked to the train station early, that morning is the greatest time to be out in Florence. A lot of places are not open and there are no too many tourists. It makes it easier to get pics without a ton of people in them, and the sun shiing on the buildings is beautiful. i cannot wait for bigger puddles!
Well, I guess that is all the news I have. I met a very nice Canadian at the concert last night and he told me there is a free concert at the same church tonight, but I am not sure what. So, we may meet up there. Honestly, I am exhausted and have so much laundry to do. Might I add it all has to dry the old fashion way.. with no dryer. Cool man.
I hope you are all doing well and enjoy the pics. Lots of love!
Tanti Bacci!
PISA
Duomo: Santa Maria Del Fiore in Firenze
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Italian Sand Through The American Eyeglass: 10/21/06
Ciao Tutti!
I hope this finds everone well. I am doing fine on a lazy Sunday morning!
So, I was at this bar last night called Slowly and as I sat there drinking my Mojito, it occured to me that I spelled hereby wrong in my newsletter yesterday. Oh my, how could I. I knew my cousin Parker would not have it, so PDawg, I hereby recognize my error and am sending my apology to anyone who was offended by such lack of attention on my part.
OK, can you tell it is going to be a slow news day? Ha ha. Let us see. Yesterday I did go to Santa Maria Del Fiore, also known as the Duomo. You will see many pictures included from the trip. This church is actually still free to enter, but you do have to pay to climb the dome and the Campanile (Tower) I decided I will do these on a sunny day. Actually, today is beautiful, so I should perhaps attempt at least one. SIDE BAR: I just watched a woman outside the window hit the car behind her like 9 times as she squeezed out of the parking place. Guess they don't leave notes here. Wow. END SIDE BAR: Each is about 450 steps, not an easy climb, but doable. The views are amazing. Otherwise, i think I will go to Santo Spiritu and Santa Maria Del Carmine today. They are tiny churches, easy to get done in a little while. As for the Duomo, it is quite impressive. There is not a lot of art inside, as most of it was cleared out in the 1800s. The facade is also circa 1870. Before it was put on, the Duomo was very plain, brown brick. Some people think the new facade is the most beautiful work this side of heaven, while others hate it. What do you guys think?
The cupola, or inside of the dome, is beautifully frescoed. Giorgio Vasari did a lot of the work and the frescoes portray stories, such as the last judgement. Unfortunately they blocked off the end of the church, so I could not get right under the cupola for a full range of pics, but you will like what you see and when I do climb the dome, I can take better pics.
My favorite part of the church, though, was at the opposite end where you see pics of a sundial/clock with golden mosaic of Jesus and Mary below it. The church is pretty dark, but my camera picked up so much light and it reflected of the gold mosaic pieces beautifully.
Tomorrow I plan to go to Pisa, which brings us to the PISA POLE: here we go. After 10 years of construction, they have finally reopened the Leaning Tower of Pisa for visitors to climb. It cost 15 Euro. Do I do it? I will leave it up to you guys. Please respond asap, as I shall leave in the morning.
Hmmm. Well, i decided that next time I come to Italy, I will not even bother packing clothes for two reasons: One, there are so many cute clothes here and my blah wardrobe really isn't in fashion here. And two, apparently you don't really need clothes. As I was at a club called Andromeda last night, I watched this tiny Italian lady dance around in a friggin' nightie. I am serious, like a Victoria's Secret, tiny nightie with matching trunk undies. She glamed it up with a string of long pearls and some leg warmers that she wore on her arms. Man, I would look so hot in that. I can wear that and then sit in the SLK200 Mercedes Benz my friend owns. He let me sit in it last night and it was so choice. I really would look great in that car and my underwear, cruising through the streets of Florence. I missed my chance, really. He gave me the keys and let me lock myself inside. He said I could drive it. Ummmmmmm, knowing me, something really bad would have happened. So, I just cranked the music and sat in it for a bit, prentending to drive. "Vroom vroom," I yelled, as if playing a racing video game!
Well, I guess there really is not much more to share. Next time I will have tales of adventures in Pisa, but remember, you must participate in the Pisa pole. Do I climb the tower? I hope you enjoy all the pics. Please tell me if i am sending too many or if the files are too big for anyone. I don't really know. As requested, there is one of myself. I wish there were more, but everytime I think to ask someone to take my pic, I think of that scene in National Lampoon's European Vacation when they are in Rome. They ask an Italian man to take their pic in front of a fountain. The man is so nice and convinces them to take off their shoes and get into the fountain. Once they are all in, he runs off with their camera. Now, wouldn't that be special. But really, I will start to accumulate them.
Love to you all.
Tanti Bacci!
The Duomo: Santa Maria Del Fiore
Had to Take This
Palazzo Vecchio
Perseus Slaying Medusa
The Ufizzi
Ponte Vecchio
.jpg)
The View From my Apartment Window
I hope this finds everone well. I am doing fine on a lazy Sunday morning!
So, I was at this bar last night called Slowly and as I sat there drinking my Mojito, it occured to me that I spelled hereby wrong in my newsletter yesterday. Oh my, how could I. I knew my cousin Parker would not have it, so PDawg, I hereby recognize my error and am sending my apology to anyone who was offended by such lack of attention on my part.
OK, can you tell it is going to be a slow news day? Ha ha. Let us see. Yesterday I did go to Santa Maria Del Fiore, also known as the Duomo. You will see many pictures included from the trip. This church is actually still free to enter, but you do have to pay to climb the dome and the Campanile (Tower) I decided I will do these on a sunny day. Actually, today is beautiful, so I should perhaps attempt at least one. SIDE BAR: I just watched a woman outside the window hit the car behind her like 9 times as she squeezed out of the parking place. Guess they don't leave notes here. Wow. END SIDE BAR: Each is about 450 steps, not an easy climb, but doable. The views are amazing. Otherwise, i think I will go to Santo Spiritu and Santa Maria Del Carmine today. They are tiny churches, easy to get done in a little while. As for the Duomo, it is quite impressive. There is not a lot of art inside, as most of it was cleared out in the 1800s. The facade is also circa 1870. Before it was put on, the Duomo was very plain, brown brick. Some people think the new facade is the most beautiful work this side of heaven, while others hate it. What do you guys think?
The cupola, or inside of the dome, is beautifully frescoed. Giorgio Vasari did a lot of the work and the frescoes portray stories, such as the last judgement. Unfortunately they blocked off the end of the church, so I could not get right under the cupola for a full range of pics, but you will like what you see and when I do climb the dome, I can take better pics.
My favorite part of the church, though, was at the opposite end where you see pics of a sundial/clock with golden mosaic of Jesus and Mary below it. The church is pretty dark, but my camera picked up so much light and it reflected of the gold mosaic pieces beautifully.
Tomorrow I plan to go to Pisa, which brings us to the PISA POLE: here we go. After 10 years of construction, they have finally reopened the Leaning Tower of Pisa for visitors to climb. It cost 15 Euro. Do I do it? I will leave it up to you guys. Please respond asap, as I shall leave in the morning.
Hmmm. Well, i decided that next time I come to Italy, I will not even bother packing clothes for two reasons: One, there are so many cute clothes here and my blah wardrobe really isn't in fashion here. And two, apparently you don't really need clothes. As I was at a club called Andromeda last night, I watched this tiny Italian lady dance around in a friggin' nightie. I am serious, like a Victoria's Secret, tiny nightie with matching trunk undies. She glamed it up with a string of long pearls and some leg warmers that she wore on her arms. Man, I would look so hot in that. I can wear that and then sit in the SLK200 Mercedes Benz my friend owns. He let me sit in it last night and it was so choice. I really would look great in that car and my underwear, cruising through the streets of Florence. I missed my chance, really. He gave me the keys and let me lock myself inside. He said I could drive it. Ummmmmmm, knowing me, something really bad would have happened. So, I just cranked the music and sat in it for a bit, prentending to drive. "Vroom vroom," I yelled, as if playing a racing video game!
Well, I guess there really is not much more to share. Next time I will have tales of adventures in Pisa, but remember, you must participate in the Pisa pole. Do I climb the tower? I hope you enjoy all the pics. Please tell me if i am sending too many or if the files are too big for anyone. I don't really know. As requested, there is one of myself. I wish there were more, but everytime I think to ask someone to take my pic, I think of that scene in National Lampoon's European Vacation when they are in Rome. They ask an Italian man to take their pic in front of a fountain. The man is so nice and convinces them to take off their shoes and get into the fountain. Once they are all in, he runs off with their camera. Now, wouldn't that be special. But really, I will start to accumulate them.
Love to you all.
Tanti Bacci!
The Duomo: Santa Maria Del Fiore
Had to Take This
Palazzo Vecchio
Perseus Slaying Medusa
The Ufizzi
Ponte Vecchio
.jpg)
The View From my Apartment Window
Friday, October 20, 2006
Ciao di Firenze: 10/20/06
I will oficially be changing the name of the update to "Italian Sand Through the American Eyeglass", in honor of my cousin Matt. He is the one who came up with it and it is perfect. Leave it to Matt to inspire me and put his finger on the pulse of my experience. Thanks buddy!
Wow guys! I have a lot of ground to cover, so I hope you are all comfy and cozy.
I am glad to see that most of you are loving the posts, which makes me happy for three reasons: I love to write, I love to share this with all of you, and it is a nice way to relax daily in Cafe Moyo.
I do not have any pics for you, but I promise a good time in the following lines.
Ok. First I will start with a little recap of what I am doing here. I have had a lot of people asking for details and such. Cousin Kirk: No my dad is not crazy for letting me be here alone. The truth is, I decided I was going to come to Florence for about a month. I just recently finished my teaching credential and will be student teaching in January. SO, I wanted to do something big. I asked everyone I knew if they wanted to join me, but no one could. So, I decided it should not stop me. Believe me, my dad was perhaps the most opposed. With good reason. As you said, I am a most beautiful girl and perhaps it is dangerous to unleash me alone on the streets of Florence. There you have it. No studying. I am just here, staying in an apartment I have rented and that is all. I do appreciate your love and concern, as well as the educational history of Florence... see, maybe I am studying: art and life.
So, let's begin with the aparment. I finally got it cleaned up yesterday to take pics for you all. I did not take the pics and now my apartment is a mess. Soo, I have included a link to the website that has pics of my apartment. http://www.poderevignola.com/eng/firenze/default.asp
I could not have done a better job. This way you can read all about it too. What it does not tell you is that I have to climb some wicked ass stairs to get to it. They are steep and there are many. Perhaps I shall count them for you. I also have to use 3 different keys to get into my house. It could be four, but I opted out of the fourth one, considering it overkill. Now, the thing about Florence is that the historic center (the part I am living in and doing everything in) is pretty small. Things here are different in the sense that they have big grocery stores, but not near me. Otherwise, goods are split up into many different stores. So, When I need to do grocery shopping, it can take a while. Then, I accumulate stuff, so I have to drop them off at home. What this means is that in any given day, I climb those stairs 6-10 times. For example: This morning I went to the central market for fresh pasta, parmigiana reggiano (I threw that in for Alisha), and bread. I also found some cheap cashmere scarves: che bella! I came home. Then I gathered all my stuff for the internet cafe. I will have to go home again to get my backpack and camera before going to Santa Croce. This happens all day. I don't have a car and such to keep stuff in, so I have to go back to unload and regroup constantly. The good news is, I am already loosing weight, even though I eat salame and pasta like it is going out of style.
As many of you know, I am a smart girl, but perhaps a little gullable. I am very sensitive and very trusting... too trusting. On Wednesday morning I awoke very early and got out of the house. As I walked in Piazza della Signoria, an Italian man stopped me saying he had to buy me a coffee. He said I was out way too early and that in Italy, you drink cafe in the morning. So, I figured, "Why not?" Free coffee always accepted: that is my motto. As we sat, he told me I was beautiful. "I know," I said. Blah Blah. He tells me he is a designer and owns a shop. He invited me to go and I say why not? So, we go, and he is legit. He designs very expensive leather coats, some for famous people. There were pics up of Melissa Joan Hart, Mariel Hemmingway, Marcia Cross, and some famous soccer dudes. Then he invites me to dinner. I think about it. I figure, I am here to meet people and it would be nice to have a dinner friend, a local to take me somewhere great, so I accepted. Then came the hug. Ummm, wierd hug, gotta go, ciao. "See you Friday," I say. Now, this guy is pretty old and certainly not someone I would be interested in seeing romantically. I made it clear. Yesterday, I decide to google him. If he is a designer, then he should be out there. He was, but the site was nothing to do with leather. He was mentioned in a blog. This girl told a story about him that sounded EXACTLY like mine, but creepier. Umm, yeah, I guess I dine alone tonight! Say no to Mario Romano.
On a happy note, I officially found the greatest deal in Florence. My friend took me to this place last night called Colle Beretto. It is a bar, but a super special bar. The drinks are about 9 Euros (over 10 American Dollars) BUT! They have a buffet style snack table that is free as long as you buy a drink. Now people. I do not mean peanuts and chips and salsa. I am talking awesome Italian antipasti: Bruschetta, bread with melted mozarella and ham, potatoes, salad, pate, steamed veggies, bread with peperoni and mozarella, little toothpics with tomatoes and mozarella, chicken wings, french fries, quiche, and on. I swear. It was dinner. I will definitely be visiting this place a lot. Also last night, as if we did not get enough to eat, we went to this great restaurant called Open Bar. It is right on the river. Benjamin and I decided to go eat, but I told him I couldn't afford anything expensive. He says, "Oh no, it is not expensive." Um, it was, but luckily he paid. The deal is, I pay next time. That is when we go McDonald's ;-). This place was great and the portions huge. All I had was Ribollita (a Tuscan soup made of bread and veggies) and salad. I thought I would pop! I had to go home straight-away. It was 9:30.
Ok. Please do not get mad, but I have not had any gelato yet. The plan was to eat it everyday, but I have not felt it. I have vowed to make it happen today. I plan to go home, get my camera, go to Santa Croce and then go for gelato. It will happen. My favorite is Nocciola (Hazelnut). I cannot wait. You see, I have fallen into a dangerous habit since I have come here. Since I am here for awhile and everything I want to see is in my back yard, I have started putting things off. Oh, I have plenty of time, blah blah. Before I know it, I will be leaving and not have done it all. SO!!!! I must begin! Today is Santa Croce. Santa Croce is a Franciscan Church. It has been dubbed Florence's "Westminster Abby." Michaelangelo, Rossini, Galileo, and Machiavelli are buried there. The church is covered with frescoes by Giotto, who was one of Florence's first great artists. It also has a leather school. It is great because you can walk through the school, buy leather goods, watch them make stuff, and then have any leather items initialed or written on with gold leaf for donation. It is really fun.
Otherwise, I will be taking it easy today. I may go the train station for a schedule to start planning my visits to the hill towns. There are a few to get to. I am going to cook myself dinner. I bought some fresh trofie pasta and found my favorite Barilla red pepper pesto at the store. Can't wait. And later... perhaps a little fun on the town.
I love and miss you all. Hope to hear form you!
Tanti Bacci.
PS to Pam... If red wine kills brain cells, then call me stupid and pour me some Chianti!
Wow guys! I have a lot of ground to cover, so I hope you are all comfy and cozy.
I am glad to see that most of you are loving the posts, which makes me happy for three reasons: I love to write, I love to share this with all of you, and it is a nice way to relax daily in Cafe Moyo.
I do not have any pics for you, but I promise a good time in the following lines.
Ok. First I will start with a little recap of what I am doing here. I have had a lot of people asking for details and such. Cousin Kirk: No my dad is not crazy for letting me be here alone. The truth is, I decided I was going to come to Florence for about a month. I just recently finished my teaching credential and will be student teaching in January. SO, I wanted to do something big. I asked everyone I knew if they wanted to join me, but no one could. So, I decided it should not stop me. Believe me, my dad was perhaps the most opposed. With good reason. As you said, I am a most beautiful girl and perhaps it is dangerous to unleash me alone on the streets of Florence. There you have it. No studying. I am just here, staying in an apartment I have rented and that is all. I do appreciate your love and concern, as well as the educational history of Florence... see, maybe I am studying: art and life.
So, let's begin with the aparment. I finally got it cleaned up yesterday to take pics for you all. I did not take the pics and now my apartment is a mess. Soo, I have included a link to the website that has pics of my apartment. http://www.poderevignola.com/eng/firenze/default.asp
I could not have done a better job. This way you can read all about it too. What it does not tell you is that I have to climb some wicked ass stairs to get to it. They are steep and there are many. Perhaps I shall count them for you. I also have to use 3 different keys to get into my house. It could be four, but I opted out of the fourth one, considering it overkill. Now, the thing about Florence is that the historic center (the part I am living in and doing everything in) is pretty small. Things here are different in the sense that they have big grocery stores, but not near me. Otherwise, goods are split up into many different stores. So, When I need to do grocery shopping, it can take a while. Then, I accumulate stuff, so I have to drop them off at home. What this means is that in any given day, I climb those stairs 6-10 times. For example: This morning I went to the central market for fresh pasta, parmigiana reggiano (I threw that in for Alisha), and bread. I also found some cheap cashmere scarves: che bella! I came home. Then I gathered all my stuff for the internet cafe. I will have to go home again to get my backpack and camera before going to Santa Croce. This happens all day. I don't have a car and such to keep stuff in, so I have to go back to unload and regroup constantly. The good news is, I am already loosing weight, even though I eat salame and pasta like it is going out of style.
As many of you know, I am a smart girl, but perhaps a little gullable. I am very sensitive and very trusting... too trusting. On Wednesday morning I awoke very early and got out of the house. As I walked in Piazza della Signoria, an Italian man stopped me saying he had to buy me a coffee. He said I was out way too early and that in Italy, you drink cafe in the morning. So, I figured, "Why not?" Free coffee always accepted: that is my motto. As we sat, he told me I was beautiful. "I know," I said. Blah Blah. He tells me he is a designer and owns a shop. He invited me to go and I say why not? So, we go, and he is legit. He designs very expensive leather coats, some for famous people. There were pics up of Melissa Joan Hart, Mariel Hemmingway, Marcia Cross, and some famous soccer dudes. Then he invites me to dinner. I think about it. I figure, I am here to meet people and it would be nice to have a dinner friend, a local to take me somewhere great, so I accepted. Then came the hug. Ummm, wierd hug, gotta go, ciao. "See you Friday," I say. Now, this guy is pretty old and certainly not someone I would be interested in seeing romantically. I made it clear. Yesterday, I decide to google him. If he is a designer, then he should be out there. He was, but the site was nothing to do with leather. He was mentioned in a blog. This girl told a story about him that sounded EXACTLY like mine, but creepier. Umm, yeah, I guess I dine alone tonight! Say no to Mario Romano.
On a happy note, I officially found the greatest deal in Florence. My friend took me to this place last night called Colle Beretto. It is a bar, but a super special bar. The drinks are about 9 Euros (over 10 American Dollars) BUT! They have a buffet style snack table that is free as long as you buy a drink. Now people. I do not mean peanuts and chips and salsa. I am talking awesome Italian antipasti: Bruschetta, bread with melted mozarella and ham, potatoes, salad, pate, steamed veggies, bread with peperoni and mozarella, little toothpics with tomatoes and mozarella, chicken wings, french fries, quiche, and on. I swear. It was dinner. I will definitely be visiting this place a lot. Also last night, as if we did not get enough to eat, we went to this great restaurant called Open Bar. It is right on the river. Benjamin and I decided to go eat, but I told him I couldn't afford anything expensive. He says, "Oh no, it is not expensive." Um, it was, but luckily he paid. The deal is, I pay next time. That is when we go McDonald's ;-). This place was great and the portions huge. All I had was Ribollita (a Tuscan soup made of bread and veggies) and salad. I thought I would pop! I had to go home straight-away. It was 9:30.
Ok. Please do not get mad, but I have not had any gelato yet. The plan was to eat it everyday, but I have not felt it. I have vowed to make it happen today. I plan to go home, get my camera, go to Santa Croce and then go for gelato. It will happen. My favorite is Nocciola (Hazelnut). I cannot wait. You see, I have fallen into a dangerous habit since I have come here. Since I am here for awhile and everything I want to see is in my back yard, I have started putting things off. Oh, I have plenty of time, blah blah. Before I know it, I will be leaving and not have done it all. SO!!!! I must begin! Today is Santa Croce. Santa Croce is a Franciscan Church. It has been dubbed Florence's "Westminster Abby." Michaelangelo, Rossini, Galileo, and Machiavelli are buried there. The church is covered with frescoes by Giotto, who was one of Florence's first great artists. It also has a leather school. It is great because you can walk through the school, buy leather goods, watch them make stuff, and then have any leather items initialed or written on with gold leaf for donation. It is really fun.
Otherwise, I will be taking it easy today. I may go the train station for a schedule to start planning my visits to the hill towns. There are a few to get to. I am going to cook myself dinner. I bought some fresh trofie pasta and found my favorite Barilla red pepper pesto at the store. Can't wait. And later... perhaps a little fun on the town.
I love and miss you all. Hope to hear form you!
Tanti Bacci.
PS to Pam... If red wine kills brain cells, then call me stupid and pour me some Chianti!
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Ciao di Firenze: 10/19/06
First off: I was completely blown away by all of you who responded to my first email. What is so funny, is there are definately themes running through all of them: First of all, everyone seems to think I need to be warned about all the Italian men. Funny thing is that no one is opposed to me meeting one. They just don't want me to hang out with too many. Next: wine and cheese. Hmmm. If any of you hung out with me last Friday night, it is possible that you know that wine may not be the best course of action.... However, since it is so cheap, I am sure I can get used to it. Nonetheless, I thank you all for writing. It was a nice surprise this morning.
My trip could not be going better. Let us start with a little background info. When I was here five years ago, I got in with a group of friends who were from Albania, but had lived in Florence for quite awhile. They were all nice guys and fun to go out with and such. One of my favorite memories is when one of these boys, Nick, heard me complaining about the relentless harassment I was enduring from all the "dirty Italian men". So he says, "Michelle, do you know how to get rid of them when they are bothering you? Just tell them you are from Albania because Italian men do not like Albanian girls." Hmmm, I thought. I supposed it was worth a try. Never once did it occur to me that if I was to pull this off, perhaps I should actually know a little Albanian. So, as I sat on the steps of the Duomo, some "Dirty Italian Men" approached Alisha and I. I could already tell they were annoying, so in broken English I said, "No speak Italian. I am Albanian." I thought I pulled off the accent quite well. The boy looked at me skeptically and said, "You are Albanian? Well, then say something in Albanian." Now, most of you would give up at this point. But not Michelle. I kind of put my hand over my mouth to muffle the string of blahs and throaty hucks. Basically I just made some noise. No words at all. The boy starts to laugh and he says, "You see, I knew you were not Albanian because I am Alabanian."
Oops.
What is the point? I am getting there, I promise. So, yesterday I woke up at 5:45am. Yeah. That is what happens when you go to bed at 10:30. So, I decided to get up and unpack. I planned on making a trek up to Piazza San Michaelangelo. It was really quite a walk, mostly because it is up hill. So, I get there and realize that the church of San Miniato was near by, so I walked up more. As I left, I was so hungry, so I went in search of food. Instead of going down, I kept going up. I ended up in a nice neigborhood (w/ no food). Let me tell you. I now know what it is like to have a goiter protruding from my neck. The few people I encountered up there looked at me like I was an alien: or had a goiter protruding from me neck. I finally decided it was time to go, so I began my ascent.
At this point, i was STARVING and since I had already walked at least 6 miles, I decided I would splurge on pasta, like naughty pasta. I went from restaurant to restaurant. Even though I was so hungry, I had my mind set and would not give in until I found what I wanted. The 6th place or so, I found it. A totally overpriced place called Celestino right near Ponte Vecchio. It was perfect. After a while, I realized I recognized the waiter. Sure enough, it was good old Nick, harbinger of great advice. The best part was that he is still friends with Benjamin who was a great friend while I was here before. Somehow, we just lost touch. When I consider all the factors involved in me choosing that restaurant, I am convinced something was leading me there to run into Nick. So, here is the point: I have a friend in Florence. Not to say I need it so much. I mean, I did come here to be on my own and have an independent adventure. I love living alone, by the way. However, it was nice to stay out late last night knowing I had a walk home. We went to the Full-Up for dancing. I know some of you will appreciate this: The full-up is kind of different. The walls are all green now, it is more chique. I liked it. Perhaps I will have to see the Yab some night. I am also so glad to be reaquainted with an old friend. In the end, my day was a big one: new friends, and 10-12 mile walk, and some great pictures.
As for everything else, it is great. The only thing that has changed here is money. Five years ago, I could get dinner and wine for about $15. Now, it is like $30. So, I will not be able to eat out much. There are plenty of snack bars for cheapy stuff and there is a grocery store. I really need to visit it. My tiny trip the other day did not quite work. For dinner last night I ate salami, toast with butter and strawberry jelly, and some pickles. Mmmmmm, so Italian.
Well, I know there were a million other things that I wanted to share with you guys, but I cannot remember. I guess I should have kept a list going. Oh well. There will be plenty of time for that! I hope you are all doing well and look forward to more posts.
Love you all!
My trip could not be going better. Let us start with a little background info. When I was here five years ago, I got in with a group of friends who were from Albania, but had lived in Florence for quite awhile. They were all nice guys and fun to go out with and such. One of my favorite memories is when one of these boys, Nick, heard me complaining about the relentless harassment I was enduring from all the "dirty Italian men". So he says, "Michelle, do you know how to get rid of them when they are bothering you? Just tell them you are from Albania because Italian men do not like Albanian girls." Hmmm, I thought. I supposed it was worth a try. Never once did it occur to me that if I was to pull this off, perhaps I should actually know a little Albanian. So, as I sat on the steps of the Duomo, some "Dirty Italian Men" approached Alisha and I. I could already tell they were annoying, so in broken English I said, "No speak Italian. I am Albanian." I thought I pulled off the accent quite well. The boy looked at me skeptically and said, "You are Albanian? Well, then say something in Albanian." Now, most of you would give up at this point. But not Michelle. I kind of put my hand over my mouth to muffle the string of blahs and throaty hucks. Basically I just made some noise. No words at all. The boy starts to laugh and he says, "You see, I knew you were not Albanian because I am Alabanian."
Oops.
What is the point? I am getting there, I promise. So, yesterday I woke up at 5:45am. Yeah. That is what happens when you go to bed at 10:30. So, I decided to get up and unpack. I planned on making a trek up to Piazza San Michaelangelo. It was really quite a walk, mostly because it is up hill. So, I get there and realize that the church of San Miniato was near by, so I walked up more. As I left, I was so hungry, so I went in search of food. Instead of going down, I kept going up. I ended up in a nice neigborhood (w/ no food). Let me tell you. I now know what it is like to have a goiter protruding from my neck. The few people I encountered up there looked at me like I was an alien: or had a goiter protruding from me neck. I finally decided it was time to go, so I began my ascent.
At this point, i was STARVING and since I had already walked at least 6 miles, I decided I would splurge on pasta, like naughty pasta. I went from restaurant to restaurant. Even though I was so hungry, I had my mind set and would not give in until I found what I wanted. The 6th place or so, I found it. A totally overpriced place called Celestino right near Ponte Vecchio. It was perfect. After a while, I realized I recognized the waiter. Sure enough, it was good old Nick, harbinger of great advice. The best part was that he is still friends with Benjamin who was a great friend while I was here before. Somehow, we just lost touch. When I consider all the factors involved in me choosing that restaurant, I am convinced something was leading me there to run into Nick. So, here is the point: I have a friend in Florence. Not to say I need it so much. I mean, I did come here to be on my own and have an independent adventure. I love living alone, by the way. However, it was nice to stay out late last night knowing I had a walk home. We went to the Full-Up for dancing. I know some of you will appreciate this: The full-up is kind of different. The walls are all green now, it is more chique. I liked it. Perhaps I will have to see the Yab some night. I am also so glad to be reaquainted with an old friend. In the end, my day was a big one: new friends, and 10-12 mile walk, and some great pictures.
As for everything else, it is great. The only thing that has changed here is money. Five years ago, I could get dinner and wine for about $15. Now, it is like $30. So, I will not be able to eat out much. There are plenty of snack bars for cheapy stuff and there is a grocery store. I really need to visit it. My tiny trip the other day did not quite work. For dinner last night I ate salami, toast with butter and strawberry jelly, and some pickles. Mmmmmm, so Italian.
Well, I know there were a million other things that I wanted to share with you guys, but I cannot remember. I guess I should have kept a list going. Oh well. There will be plenty of time for that! I hope you are all doing well and look forward to more posts.
Love you all!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Ciao Di Firenze: 10/17/06
Hello to all!
Well, I finally made it to Florence. I left my house at 7 am on Sunday morning and arrived in Florence 28 hours later. I should have been there earlier, but apparently some planes leave late and then others leave early. Hmmmmm. Anywho, I had to wait at the Frankfurt airport for a while after missing a plane. I was so tired and dirty that I almost started to cry, but I got through it ok.
So, here I am in Florence for 5 weeks. I stayed in a hotel last night. My room was about as big as the alotted space on the airplane, but at least I had my own bathroom and a bed. I slept magnificently. Once I got to the hotel, I snuck out for a sec to email the fam and get a snack. I went to bed at 9:30PM. Lovely!
This morniing, I went to meet the landlord of the apartment I rented. She was super nice and the apartment is perfetto! Perhaps you have heard of my neigbor: The Ufizzi. Yes, when I look out the window, it is straight ahead, across the street from me. When I look to the right out my window, I can see the Palazzo Vecchio. Basically, my location is primo, even though I have to walk up four flights of STEEP stairs. Oh well, at least it will keep me in shape.
I spent most of today walking walking walking. I had to get soap, shampoo, food, all that stuff. It was actually quite fun. I remembered where most things are. I even walked by my old apartment that I stayed in while I studied 5 years ago.
Right now I am at a cafe that offers free wi-fi, as long as you buy coffee. Umm, yeah, no problema. I actually needed it. For lunch, I went to my favorite place, Pizza Dell'Arte. You see, I have been craving this smoked Mozarella pasta for 5 years, so I determined it would be my first place to dine. Unfortunately, they don't have it any more. I was crushed! However, they do have the best pizza in town, Naples style. it was fine. I decided to have TWO glasses of wine at lunch (perche I can). Ummm, maybe not a good idea. I am super sleepy.
Well, I guess that is it for now. I don't have pics yet because today was dedicated to errands and getting settled. They will come soon. I am so happy to be here, although I miss you all. I like being on my own, though. I know it will be a great adventure.
And so, I shall leave you with my top 10: Things I love about Florence.
10. You can drink in the streets
9. The hot clothes
8. San Benedetto peach flavored tea
7. cheap prosciutto
6. kinder bueno bars
5. dove deoderant: it smells different here
4. cheap wine
3. Hazelnut gelato
2. my apartment
1. that you can get off a plane after 28 hours of travel with no makeup, dirty clothes and men will still call you beautiful, ask for kisses, and say "I love you!" when you are walking down the street.
Love to you all!
Well, I finally made it to Florence. I left my house at 7 am on Sunday morning and arrived in Florence 28 hours later. I should have been there earlier, but apparently some planes leave late and then others leave early. Hmmmmm. Anywho, I had to wait at the Frankfurt airport for a while after missing a plane. I was so tired and dirty that I almost started to cry, but I got through it ok.
So, here I am in Florence for 5 weeks. I stayed in a hotel last night. My room was about as big as the alotted space on the airplane, but at least I had my own bathroom and a bed. I slept magnificently. Once I got to the hotel, I snuck out for a sec to email the fam and get a snack. I went to bed at 9:30PM. Lovely!
This morniing, I went to meet the landlord of the apartment I rented. She was super nice and the apartment is perfetto! Perhaps you have heard of my neigbor: The Ufizzi. Yes, when I look out the window, it is straight ahead, across the street from me. When I look to the right out my window, I can see the Palazzo Vecchio. Basically, my location is primo, even though I have to walk up four flights of STEEP stairs. Oh well, at least it will keep me in shape.
I spent most of today walking walking walking. I had to get soap, shampoo, food, all that stuff. It was actually quite fun. I remembered where most things are. I even walked by my old apartment that I stayed in while I studied 5 years ago.
Right now I am at a cafe that offers free wi-fi, as long as you buy coffee. Umm, yeah, no problema. I actually needed it. For lunch, I went to my favorite place, Pizza Dell'Arte. You see, I have been craving this smoked Mozarella pasta for 5 years, so I determined it would be my first place to dine. Unfortunately, they don't have it any more. I was crushed! However, they do have the best pizza in town, Naples style. it was fine. I decided to have TWO glasses of wine at lunch (perche I can). Ummm, maybe not a good idea. I am super sleepy.
Well, I guess that is it for now. I don't have pics yet because today was dedicated to errands and getting settled. They will come soon. I am so happy to be here, although I miss you all. I like being on my own, though. I know it will be a great adventure.
And so, I shall leave you with my top 10: Things I love about Florence.
10. You can drink in the streets
9. The hot clothes
8. San Benedetto peach flavored tea
7. cheap prosciutto
6. kinder bueno bars
5. dove deoderant: it smells different here
4. cheap wine
3. Hazelnut gelato
2. my apartment
1. that you can get off a plane after 28 hours of travel with no makeup, dirty clothes and men will still call you beautiful, ask for kisses, and say "I love you!" when you are walking down the street.
Love to you all!
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