January 1, 2015. Had an awesome time in the mountains, with lovely friends, but now was time to leave the mountains and see some more northern country and visit other dear friends here in the north. Did not have a real plan, just was waiting for something to point me in a direction... any direction was fine, not particular. That is the beauty of being retired and free to go where ever, whenever. Well, as it turned out, my friend in Vicchio was to have a free day on Friday, (this got changed for her, however, I didn't know it at this moment in time), so that was reason enough to head that direction :) So I purchased a train ticket, said my goodbyes to those I'd been with and Teresa took me to the train station in Mezzocorona.
Nothing like a little challenge to spice up my holiday. After Teresa took me to the train station in Mezzocorona where I was to catch me train to Verona Porta Nuova, then a train change on to Florence and another change to Vicchio, I arrived with just the right amount of time (25 minutes) to catch the train to Verona without having to rush; plenty of time to lug my bags up and down the steps. However, after waiting these 25 minutes and it was time for the train to arrive, they announced that it had broken down and we all would have to take the bus. There was a nice young man and lady there who I had previously spoken with, who were very helpful in making sure I understood this change. We all marched down/up the stairs to the front of the station, where we waited another 30 minutes for the bus, which did not arrive. At this time, the young man who lived in Mezzocorona and was going to Iceland to do mountain climbing, called his father to come pick them up and take them to Trento to catch another train. He asked me if I would like to ride with them. Why not... seemed like a safe young couple and so that is what I did. Now we were running late to catch another train in Trento, so the son was urging his father to hurry... which we did !!! Okay, I have previously shared with you the Italian driving habits, so won't bore you with details. I just decided to settle back into the seat and enjoy the excitement :) . We arrived just in time to catch the next train, however, I did not have a ticket for that train and the connecting ticket I had, needed to be changed to a later time to get to Florence, but no time for that now! We all just hopped on the train and took a seat. I was lucky, no one was assigned the seat I sat in, however, the young couple I was with had to give up their seats to the rightful ticket holders not once but three times :) . Eventually we were a car apart, so wasn't sure what would happen when the ticket master came to collect my ticket and I didn't have one, and now my new English speaking friend was a long ways away... Needn't have worried. The ticket collector spoke excellent English, sold me a ticket for this train and I was able to get off in Verona and make changes to my original ticket to go on to Florence, and then Vicchio. Just arrived a couple hours later than originally planned. Mariano picked me up at 8 in Vicchio and all was right with the day. Keeps me young (ish) ... a little too late for young :) .
January 2, 2015. I was exhausted. After arriving in Vicchio, I climbed into bed around 8:30 and didn't awaken again until 8:30 next morning. I checked my emails briefly, then since the room was so cold, I put on my coat, climbed back into bed and didn't waken again until Mariano phoned me around 4pm. At that time I got up, showered and went with him to have a coffee and a sweet. I do not know if I have ever slept that long at any time in my entire life, except perhaps when I was sick. I spent the evening with the family and David and Enrico also came by for dinner, then back to bed for another early night.
January 3, 2015, I awoke at 7am for a little while, then fell back asleep again and finally got up a 1pm. Two days in a row of enormous amounts of sleep!!! It is only 6pm now and I already feel like I could sleep some more ! Perhaps I will, since I have to arise early tomorrow for the Spec. Mtg here in Vicchio. But, I must eat now first. Aurora made an awesome dinner last night, but I hadn't eaten much of anything for about 3 days now. Too much food over the Holidays... I needed a rest from food! Went downstairs to the restaurant and had a nice dinner by the fireplace.
I wanted to bring my bed down there too and park it in front of the fire as well. They don't have great heating systems here, since they don't get that much cold weather. As you can see from the pictures, things are quite green here in Vicchio... not much winter here!
After dinner, and I had returned to my room, I had a very pleasant surprise... a call from Pasquale who lives in a care home Milano now. Was so good to hear from him! Had not heard from or talked to him since August. Also, received an email from Anna Maria and was in contact with others today in Bari. Received a note from Cristina: .please come back soon.....we miss you here. ...
Soon, I need to return to Bari. I love traveling and seeing my 'old' friends, but after 2 weeks, I'm missing all my wonderful friends in Bari. :) Now off to bed early again, as I will need to get up and get packed up. Mariano is picking me up fairly early and I will stay with his folks for a couple days.
Sunday morning and the day is beautiful! Had a great rest and this was the view from the window! I fell in love with this part of Italy when I first arrived and every time I come back, I still feel the same way. It is gorgeous and beautiful here!
Went down to the dining room in hopes of having a bite to eat, but no luck, everyone was gone but the cleaning lady. She was kind and made me a couple of espresso's, so while I waited for Mariano, I took a few more pictures of the hotel/restaurant and their wine stock. I noticed they promote Organic Wine, and locally grown... (makes me laugh to read that, as there are grapes everywhere in Italy) ☺
After Mariano picked me up, we headed to the 'homestead' and there I had another cup of coffee, if you can call that thing Mariano is holding in his hand a cup :) ... looks more like a thimble :) . No actually, I have gotten used to drinking coffee their way, however, I have to ask for a double or triple shot. Mariano just shakes his head and me... and I'm the one who should be shaking... I'm the one who drank the coffee!
In the afternoon Aurora's friend from work, came by for a visit and bible study. She is originally from Dominican Republic and knew Mateo Lopez and others who visited in their home when she was a child. She has had a few visits with Freda and David and several others. Was nice to meet her finally, as Aurora had spoken of her several times when I've been there.
This picture is for you Wanda... Aurora displaying your handiwork!
January 6, 2015, Tuesday.
Mariano then took me to the train station as usual. Took the slow local train to Florence, then the high speed train to Rome, where I had to change to another high speed train to Bari. Made it in about 7 hours vs 10 or 11 otherwise, plus they are a much more comfortable ride.
This picture was taken from the train window heading south, back to Bari.
I was seated with a man/wife and their daughter on the train when I leaned toward the young girl and asked if she minded if I took a picture out her window. No problem. Then, as I had my computer out at the time and was working, I just went ahead and uploaded the picture. You should have seen her expression... she said you took THAT picture out this window just now?!?! She thought it took a really good photo. Her English wasn't real good, so I didn't bother to tell her that I have taken thousands (literally) out of train and car windows since I have been in Italy :)
Got into Bari just before 7pm, then rolled my suitcase along on my walk from the station back to my apartment. Someone offered to come pick me up, but would have been more time, effort and energy for them to drive all that way, when it was only about a 15 minute walk for me to my apartment. I have gotten so used to walking, trains and buses, that I actually quite enjoy them! Also, the walk was good for me after having sat on the train for so long.
Ah, was good to be home! Didn't have a single bite of food in the house, since I had cleaned everything out before I left 15 days ago, and since I can only do laundry in the evenings (except Saturdays), and it was just now after 7pm, I quickly sorted out a load and put it in the wash, then headed across the street for something to eat. Did two loads of laundry, which made it quite late for getting to bed. After that, though, my bed felt wonderful... nothing like your own bed!
January 7, 2014, Wednesday
Okay, I am going to quit saying I slept in or I got up late or any reference to this, because, that really has become my norm!!! If I get up early, then I will let you know, otherwise, from now on, when you are reading my posts you will know my day doesn't begin until 8 or 9 am. ☺
Being Wednesday, I would normally go to Mafalda's for lunch, but still had lots to do here at home, so did not go. After a wonderful day getting back in my routine, I walked to the bus stop and caught the bus about 4:30 to go to Caputo's for bible study.
When I arrived, I had a few packages... another Christmas in Bari!! :) . I get my mail at their house. Among this also were letters with pictures of my grandchildren (wanted to hug and kiss their pictures)!, one of my 'favorite' niece (this is how you get to be favorite) hee hee, and also an 8 X10 of the newborn triplets of Crystal's. Made my day to get all those!! Was fun to share the triplets picture after the study. Everyone just adored them! Thank you Dale and Cindy for sending it to me!!!
Had a nice visit with everyone this evening, got caught up on all that had happened while I was gone and Crengutsa was back from her couple months in Rome, so was really good to see her and also Maria again. Stayed a bit long just to visit!
When I left the mountains, I sent back to Bari with Miscioscia's a suitcase full of things I would not be needing for the rest of my travels, along with a few other bags of things. Luigi brought all those when he gave me a ride home from Caputo's this evening. Now I had lots more laundry to do, so when I arrived home about 8pm, I did a couple more loads, thereby, going to bed very late again.
Okay, I am going to quit saying I slept in or I got up late or any reference to this, because, that really has become my norm!!! If I get up early, then I will let you know, otherwise, from now on, when you are reading my posts you will know my day doesn't begin until 8 or 9 am. ☺
Being Wednesday, I would normally go to Mafalda's for lunch, but still had lots to do here at home, so did not go. After a wonderful day getting back in my routine, I walked to the bus stop and caught the bus about 4:30 to go to Caputo's for bible study.
When I arrived, I had a few packages... another Christmas in Bari!! :) . I get my mail at their house. Among this also were letters with pictures of my grandchildren (wanted to hug and kiss their pictures)!, one of my 'favorite' niece (this is how you get to be favorite) hee hee, and also an 8 X10 of the newborn triplets of Crystal's. Made my day to get all those!! Was fun to share the triplets picture after the study. Everyone just adored them! Thank you Dale and Cindy for sending it to me!!!
Got this one off the computer :) Needed a complete set :)
The most touching Christmas present I got was from 6 year old Aurora Caputo! Just as bible study was to begin, she quietly handed me a small bag as she walked by and gave me hug and then sat on the chair beside me. I felt I should wait until afterward to look inside, so I sat it on the floor. During study meeting she fell asleep, so I waited until I arrived home to open it. Here is what it was... isn't this the most precious!!! Just that she remembered me and did this on her own, really touched me deeply! (Mommy wasn't here yet, and she had been downstairs with her grandmother). I love these kids... guess I've said that a few times before, but I will continue to say it... they are adorable. Had a nice visit with everyone this evening, got caught up on all that had happened while I was gone and Crengutsa was back from her couple months in Rome, so was really good to see her and also Maria again. Stayed a bit long just to visit!
January 08, 2015
Time to get back into some sort of routine! My Italian studies have suffered these last couple weeks. I was very slack in keeping up and the more I didn't study, the less I wanted to study! When I arrived at Caputo's last evening, I really felt it... seemed like I had not only stopped, but had actually 'regressed'! I was really struggling to understand them and also, words, that had been coming to me more readily, were now hiding out somewhere in the dark recesses of my mind! They certainly weren't very forthcoming!
So onward with the studies today!!! ... well after I go to the market and buy some groceries. Can't think on an empty stomach! Makes it hard to concentrate!
January 09, 2015
Another gorgeous, sun-shiney day in Bari. Got a message from Damiano to have coffee with him today at 12:30, then a while later he upgraded that to having lunch at 1:30. Sounded good to me! I had already put some things in the crockpot (slow cooker) for supper, started my studies, got up a little earlier than usual and prepared to have another lovely day in the south of Italy surrounded by the beautiful sea and good friends! Ah, it felt good to be back in Bari!
January 10, 2015, Saturday
Finally, I will get all my laundry caught up, as I can use the facilities all day today. Time to wash sheets also, and clean up the joint, since I had been dragging lots of things in from vacation. Spent most of the morning and early afternoon with this. Felt good to have my place all spic and span again and everything washed and hung back in the wardrobe.
Took a much shorter walk today, now, time to do some studying both Italian and also for church tomorrow. Early bed for me tonight, since I actually have to get up at 6 tomorrow!! Yikes!
Headed to the bus at 8am, hoping to catch the 8:35 one, however, it never showed up, so had to wait for the 8:50 one, which was also 15 minutes late. I know this about the buses on Sunday now, so I always go early just to make sure I catch one in time to get to church! During the week, they are much more scheduled as they have lots of people riding, but on Sunday, it is an entirely different matter. Anyway, arrived on time and they are just a short few minutes walk from the stop on their end. Arrived at the same time as Catherine.
Marco went to China on Friday for his work and Cristina and the children were sick, also Daniele and AnnaRita, so we were a very small group, 6 total. Also, Maria and Crengutsa were in Manfredonia today, so that meant none of my translators were there! Well, what to do, as I wasn't planning on this. We often hear in our US meetings to be brief and to the point... wow, I'm glad I'd heard this a few times, I felt sanctioned!! Turned the burner of my mind on high and boiled that sermon right down to one, yes, ONE sentence! Then I spoke it in English first and it seemed brief. When I tried to repeat it in Italian... that was the longest 7 words I ever tried to say! Finally Mariella got the jist of my Italian words and repeated it for me... whew!! I've done prayer a few times, but this was my first attempt at testimony without previously having translated it! Didn't know I was going to need it today. Probably the lesson I needed to learn in church today!!! Be prepared!! Well taken!
Mafalda and Anna (Mariella's mother)
So whatever she was saying, I got only that she wanted me to take a photo of her and Anna and then she asked if I was staying for lunch with Caputo's, to which I replied yes. After that, everything else seemed to be 'Greek' to me, (or 'Italian' in this case) so I just agreed, as I didn't have anyone to translate it for me and didn't figure it was critical to my current circumstances at the moment.
Next thing I know, she is in her car and Nicola says to me, "andare, Mafalda è in attesa" (go, Mafalda is waiting). I replied, "Adesso?" (now?). "Si", he said. I thought I was staying at his home for lunch, since he had previously agreed that I was.
Okay, I had no clue where I was going, nor when I was coming back and it didn't do me any good to try to figure it out in my current state of confusion. My Italian seems to only work when I am not pressured. The slightest anxiety and it takes flight like a frightened bird!
Well, nothing to do, but get in the car. I decided it might be in my best interest to buckle up. I mentioned before in my blog that my health was good. Seemed buckling up might be another step toward maintaining that good health, since she is 82 years old and 4 foot tall, driving a five speed, miniature something or other... Fiat I think. The car is red. She must think that red cars need to go fast, or perhaps was afraid of getting rear ended?
Anyway, talking on cell phone in left hand, shift in right hand, belly/knee on wheel and away we went. To where I did not have a clue, but I was at least going to capture it on camera. And her being on the phone saved me from having to make small talk, since she speaks no English and my Italian was currently suffering a severe downturn do to brain overload!
By now, I was speculating just where we might be going, her house perhaps? However, we turned toward the city away from her home, so we weren't going there. Then my thought was maybe she was taking me to my house. We were definitely headed that direction. Then we get near an exit and she starts asking me something while still on the phone... oh my... not sure what part of the conversation is for me and what part is for the person on the phone and if the exit has any relevance! I hear a word now and then that my poor brain can comprehend, but without knowing which sentence or conversation to tie it to this throws my mind into yet further turmoil.
We pass a turn here or there, that I recognize as being a possible destination, but no, we go on.
Finally we arrive in the city at the cemetery. Now she is off the phone, but suddenly words become unnecessary between us. I understood perfectly. You see, previously this spring someone had shared a little of her life story with me. She had brought me here to 'meet' the rest of her family.
As I stood inside here, it really touched me. The tears sprang up immediately. The grief and loss some people have had in this life.
Her daughters were 11 and 14 when the family was in a car accident and they were killed. Her story is not mine to tell here, but suffice it to say that it was this tragedy that brought God and comfort into their lives those many many years ago. Her husband passed away last year.
It was also this loss of her daughters that brought Mafalda into contact with another lady who had also lost a daughter about this same time. This lady also came to realize there was a God of Comfort for the broken hearted. That lady was Lina. I had the privilege of going to Lina's funeral October 31st, even though I never got to meet her. She had been sick and in hospital.
As we were walking out, Mafalda says to me, "Nuova Esperienza" . What a dear sweet soul Mafalda is. Always thinking of and doing things for others. I am so glad I've gotten to know her these last few months and have had opportunity to be in her home every week (sometimes twice a week).
After we left the cemetery, Mafalda took me back to Nicola's for lunch! Whew! Even though, I poke a bit of fun about the car and driving, in America you would be considered a good driver, but here in Italy you are are definitely an EXCELLENT driver for 82. You hold your own, and weave in and out with the best of them, saying vai, vai!!! Dear sweet Mafalda. You are amazing. I want to be just like you 'when I grow old (er)'!
Liliana and Cristiano also had lunch with us. Was good to see her again, as it had been a few weeks. Cristina and the children were still not feeling well, but I did hang out with Aurora and we did some coloring and a few games. Had a nice long walk later in the afternoon, then in the evening Nicola and I went to Mafalda's for the evening gospel meeting. Giacinto took Maria, Crengutsa and I home this night. Home by 8:30.
January 12, 2015, Monday. Okay, enough slacking off... today is the day I get these blog posts finished up and posted at least the ones through December 31st!!!
Yeah !!! I did it!!! Spent all day and half the night, but I got two blog posts updated and posted. Now I am up to January 1 and hopefully, I will be more diligent in posting daily, so as 1) not to take so long, 2) not have to tax my memory so hard !! I'm sure there are many things I forgot to post... small details that are great reading for me a year or more from now, as I try to 'relive' my time here, but since my blog really is for me (just sharing it for any who care or want to enter into my adventures) as I think of things later, I will be able to edit and post more.
At least I chose a good day to stay in as it was rainy and windy out today. It rained Sunday night also. The sea was very boisterous today. I wanted to get a picture, but didn't want to go out in the wind, so no pic :) Also, today my appetite was strange. I was craving something, but absolutely couldn't figure out what, so ate just about everything in the house that didn't require much preparation!! Never did figure it out, but sure did a good job cleaning out the cookie jar, the frig and the cupboards!!
January 13, 2015, Tuesday. Surprised me, I was up by 9am after being up most of the night. I do feel rested however. Could have something to do with it being a gorgeous, sunny day out! Took a nice morning walk and the sea was beautiful and calm today. Also, stopped at the market... my cupboards seemed to be bare this morning ☺ hee hee, wonder why!?!?
Now, I have prepared a wonderful late lunch /early supper. Still haven't mastered the Italian art of having two big meals a day, especially the really late one, so I usually have just one really nice one per day, besides breakfast. Always, have oats and yogurt for breakfast with lots of coffee :) .
I have often mentioned the things I cannot get here in the markets, however, I should mention the new and wonderful things I have found here! Great yogurt for one! Organic, plain, simple. No fillers, sugars, etc. Very tasty! Also I have mentioned the fruits and vegetables before, however, will mention them again... so much wonderful flavor! I am finding more and more organic things as I browse through the shops. This makes me very happy, as my choice of 'medicine' is actually my food... "we are what we eat".
Since, I'm on the subject - a little about my health. I am actually feeling great with the exception of a cold I got in November. Was so happy it only lasted 3 days, but I blasted it with garlic, onions, echinacea, vitamins, etc. This always seems to work for me, so can't argue with it. I have had some right side underarm piercing pains lately, but just waiting to see if they subside. Was doing a lot of heavy lifting (my suitcase) hee hee, during the holidays. Don't know, but perhaps strained something. I'll give it some time and see what happens. When I retired, my goal was to lose some weight, so by the time I had moved out of my house into the apartment there in Moses Lake, I was well on my way. I have continued to steadily lose and am now getting into a more reasonable range, which I'm sure has contributed greatly to my overall feeling of good health. My knees and hip no long bother me much (unless I do something really stupid... been known to do this from time to time). Now eating more healthily makes a big difference too, I'm sure. De-stressing my life was a huge contributing factor as well. All in all, I am happy, healthy, grateful and thankful and loving my sojourn here in Italy (even with trying to get my old brain cells to cooperate and learn this language)!
Yeah !!! I did it!!! Spent all day and half the night, but I got two blog posts updated and posted. Now I am up to January 1 and hopefully, I will be more diligent in posting daily, so as 1) not to take so long, 2) not have to tax my memory so hard !! I'm sure there are many things I forgot to post... small details that are great reading for me a year or more from now, as I try to 'relive' my time here, but since my blog really is for me (just sharing it for any who care or want to enter into my adventures) as I think of things later, I will be able to edit and post more.
At least I chose a good day to stay in as it was rainy and windy out today. It rained Sunday night also. The sea was very boisterous today. I wanted to get a picture, but didn't want to go out in the wind, so no pic :) Also, today my appetite was strange. I was craving something, but absolutely couldn't figure out what, so ate just about everything in the house that didn't require much preparation!! Never did figure it out, but sure did a good job cleaning out the cookie jar, the frig and the cupboards!!
January 13, 2015, Tuesday. Surprised me, I was up by 9am after being up most of the night. I do feel rested however. Could have something to do with it being a gorgeous, sunny day out! Took a nice morning walk and the sea was beautiful and calm today. Also, stopped at the market... my cupboards seemed to be bare this morning ☺ hee hee, wonder why!?!?
Now, I have prepared a wonderful late lunch /early supper. Still haven't mastered the Italian art of having two big meals a day, especially the really late one, so I usually have just one really nice one per day, besides breakfast. Always, have oats and yogurt for breakfast with lots of coffee :) .
Since, I'm on the subject - a little about my health. I am actually feeling great with the exception of a cold I got in November. Was so happy it only lasted 3 days, but I blasted it with garlic, onions, echinacea, vitamins, etc. This always seems to work for me, so can't argue with it. I have had some right side underarm piercing pains lately, but just waiting to see if they subside. Was doing a lot of heavy lifting (my suitcase) hee hee, during the holidays. Don't know, but perhaps strained something. I'll give it some time and see what happens. When I retired, my goal was to lose some weight, so by the time I had moved out of my house into the apartment there in Moses Lake, I was well on my way. I have continued to steadily lose and am now getting into a more reasonable range, which I'm sure has contributed greatly to my overall feeling of good health. My knees and hip no long bother me much (unless I do something really stupid... been known to do this from time to time). Now eating more healthily makes a big difference too, I'm sure. De-stressing my life was a huge contributing factor as well. All in all, I am happy, healthy, grateful and thankful and loving my sojourn here in Italy (even with trying to get my old brain cells to cooperate and learn this language)!
January 14, 2015, Wednesday
Woke up this morning with a frontal headache. Not a bad one, just that pressure feeling in the front. Drank extra today, some special tea, went about my normal routine and tried to ignore, it, but alas, it never went away. Walked to the bus and went to church anyway. At least occupied my mind for a few hours. After church, Nicola took me home, but first, we stopped and had a Gelato... thought that might help it :). Can't say that it did anything for the headache, but it was great comfort food!
My friend Gail had sent me some American candy canes, so I took some to the children tonight. They took one taste and said they are HOT, then proceeded to drink half a bottle of water! They wouldn't eat them :) so all the adults got to eat them! No complaints from them :) Actually Crengutsa was using hers to treat the cough she has.
Even with the headache, today was a very productive day for me. Got a lot of paperwork done and caught up a bit from my time being away. Did not go to Mafalda's for lunch though, just didn't feel up to that today.
The cleaning lady comes on Wednesday's usually. How about that!! When I had a ginormous (yes, that is an actual word... look it up) house, I did all the cleaning myself. Now that I have a one bedroom, one bath, one kitchen/sitting room combo and my total apartment could fit into one room in my other house, I have the luxury of a weekly cleaning lady! Compliments of the apartment owners. I think they just want to make sure I am taking care of the place! However, since I like to live in a clean environment and make my bed everyday, not just once a week, there is usually nothing for her to do, so I leave the balcony for her to clean each week and about once a month, she will dust the top of the cupboards and door frames. That is all she has to do and still gets paid the same. I am happy, she is happy :)
Okay, now I must go to bed and try to sleep. I'm sure this will be good for my head, but as of this moment, it is feeling almost normal. I think the real reason my head hurts, is I am just doing too much thinking!!! Retired people aren't suppose to have to think so hard any more. I truly believe this! So buonanotte and chat with you domani!
January 15, 2015 Thursday
Near Disaster!!! All the pictures linked to my blog through Google + got deleted and that was cause for a few moments of panic. I tried to contact them, but this is not an option for Google+. I did contact Google and they tried to help me, but said that Google + was a separate entity and they couldn't help me and the only help Google + offers is users posting on the web. I spent all day trying to figure it out. Eventually, realizing there was nothing left to do, but go back and repost all my pictures. This will take some time!!! At least the blog (writing) itself was still there, so just a matter of putting all the pictures back in. So if you open a previous blog and there are no pictures, this is why. Please be patient with me, I will get them all put back eventually :) At least it was only the pictures stored on Google+, not the originals off my computer !! Whew!!! Always a positive side.
Needless to say, I now have made my own separate blog backup (twice!!)
So not much to post today, as most of my time was spent doing this. Just a few days ago I was so happy to be caught up on my blogging... now I'm not again! Well, I am sort of caught up... all the writing is there, all I have to do is add the pictures back, but that will take some time.
January 16, 2015 Friday
Had a great sleep last night, feel rested and have just enough aches and pains to remind me that I am still alive on this wonderful, gorgeous, sunny Friday morning! After my walk, studies and normal routine stuff, started reposting pictures on my blog.
January 17, 2015 Saturday
Duplicate of yesterday, however, like so many projects, when you start working on one, you realize there is something else that you have meaning to get done, which is what happened to me today. I have unloaded pictures all year and really needed to get them sorted out, deleting, etc. Over 22,000 of them! Took a while :) Had been putting it off, so ended up doing that most of the day.
In addition to the normal Saturday laundry, little house cleaning, etc. Early stop this afternoon, as other tomorrow being Sunday and an early rise day!
January 18, 2015 Sunday
Ready and walking to the bus stop shortly after 8. My usual routine, church, then dinner with Caputo's, then afternoon with Cristine and the children. I actually even took a short nap today, with the children playing and banging in the room! I must have been more tired than I thought! That getting up at six AM wore me out, since I am used to getting up at 8 and 9!
After evening church, caught my usual ride home and since it is now 9pm, going to bed early! Buonanotte!
January 19, 2015 Monday
On my walk today, I also went to the Posta (Post Office). When I first arrived back in Italy in August, I had to go there and pick up some paperwork/forms for my Permesso. The lady who helped me spoke a very little English, however, we were able to communicate enough. She was very helpful and friendly and wanted to visit more. Fast forward five months... I had not been back into that Post Office until today. I waited in her line, as I wanted to see her again and also knew she spoke English. I really didn't even know if she would remember me, but she did and seemed genuinely happy to see me and again expressed a desire to visit more, so I will make that happen this time! Everything is not so new for me now and I am settled into a routine, so will try and figure out what works for her time wise. Anyway, gave me a nice 'warm' feeling to 'feel' her happiness in seeing me. I had been a little 'under the weather' that day, and it was just the boost I needed!
This experience reaffirmed a valuable exercise. We don't know just how a kind word, a nice smile, a friendly greeting, a cheerful attitude can affect someones day or maybe even their life. It always pays to be pleasant and kind.
January 20 - 21, 2015
All routine, nothing too out of the ordinary, except at church on Wednesday, I actually testified in ALL Italian. My first time! Some days my Italian is better than others... I have started taking Dr Schulze Brain Formula... :) When my nerves are activated, my brain seems to shut down, but somehow I made it through and the comments were that they understood me, so that was a relief! Of course, if they hadn't have understood me, I guess it wouldn't be any worse than my English... they don't understand that either! hee hee.
Marco had arrived home from China the evening before (12 hour flight and a 9 hour time difference), but then had to work today and was very tired. I am sure he was relieved to not have to translate for me, poor fella! He looked exhausted. He offered to take me home after church, but I rode with Giacinto and Tonya. We were a little crowded with three (Crengutsa and Maria) in the backseat of a rather small car, but I didn't mind and I don't think they did :) 'close fellowship' for sure! I sure appreciate the rides home in the evenings, as the bus is a little scary in this area at night. I ride it out to this area in the day two or three times a week, and it is fine, but for some reason there are large groups of Algerian young boys and men from the area just north and west of Caputo's, near the airport, that come down to this bus stop in the evenings. I would be the only woman (and white) on the bus... not a good feeling. There was an attack on a woman some months back, so the Polizia were keeping a close watch out here, but I haven't seem their presence for a while now. Anyway, just glad and thankful for those who are so willing to give me a lift back into town.
Also, Freida has returned from her three month Conv. tour in Australia / New Zealand and I am so happy to have her back in town! She arrived on Tuesday, but has major jet lag, so is resting for a few days. Hopefully I'll see her on Sunday! Can't wait to visit about her time 'Down Under'. As I was remembering many things of when I was there, it really hit me... that was 20 years ago already! How is this possible? Reminds me of our hymn (one of Tharold's favorites) "Life at Best is Very Brief"; so for all you procrastinators out there, there is no better time than NOW.
January 22, 2015
Study, study, study. Last night gave me a boost of confidence, so this morning, I am studying with renewed vigor! A child is in a constant state of learning, so their brain is trained to quickly pick up things. My brain is in 'shut down mode' since I retired, and it is in serious rebellion at being so harshly treated, of trying to cram more in there on top of 62 years of 'mostly useless now' information! But as a dear old friend used to say, "I would rather wear out than rust out", so onward and forward with my Italian studies!!
Actually, the 'old friend' I am referring to was from Italy! I knew her since I was a small child in Illinois. Virginia Micheletti was her name and she was my first inspiration to want to go to Italy. She came back to Italy and was here for many many years, and I would see her from time to time after that when she would return to the USA for visits. She was in my home in Washington, in 1993 and that was the last time I saw her before she passed away. I have a beautiful letter from her (the last one I received) written from Italy, about the folks here. It was a precious letter and very important to me as I saved it all these years, even though at that point in my life, I had not made any decision or even had a serious thought to move to Italy. Those here, speak of her often, as she was very dear to them in this country. I brought that letter with me when I came to Italy and one of these days, I will have someone here read it.
A bit of a blustery walk this morning and the wind had a little chill in it, but still a very refreshing and invigorating walk. Have been sleeping a lot this week and today was no different. After my lunch, I had a couple hour nap. Never thought I would get into napping, but it feels wonderful when my body seems to be requiring it. Typically if I nap, I don't sleep well at night, but sure hasn't been the case this week.
I saw real, genuine M & M's in the market today! In November, I made chocolate chip cookies and Daniele liked them so well, I promised to make him some more. However, I haven't because I was hoping to find some better chocolate chips (I am still looking). When I saw these M & M's today, a light bulb went off... I will make the cookies with these! So tomorrow or next day I'll have to get that done. He will be happy. And to make sure they aren't just saying M & M on the package, I will have to taste a few to make sure ;).
Interesting how my tastes have changed here. The things I could eat in the US and thought tasted great, no longer taste so good. I have had access to how food should really taste, natural and organic, and now processed or sugar foods aren't very appealing. The desserts they eat here are not overly sweet and sugary.
Wow, I think this blog is getting way too wordy and not enough pictures. What's the matter with me, I usually take pictures every day. I need to do a little walking farther afield and get some more shots I guess.
January 23, 2014, Friday
Another lovely, although a little overcast day in Bari this morning. First things first... coffee while I read my email and messages. Lots of lovely messages today. Always enjoy staying them.
Studied for a hour, then off for my walk. I did take pictures today, and here they are. Of course, I always have to take one of my favorite, the promenade where I walk:
So many beautiful buildings in this part of Bari
I walked for a long time today!! Also did some shopping. Didn't return until 3pm then had lunch and back to the studies. Now it is 7:10. Where does the time go so quickly. Now to do a load of laundry this evening. Speaking of time moving quickly... only if I am not waiting for the minute and 15 seconds it takes for the washer to unlock :)
January 24, 2015, Saturday
The usual sleep in, then up and at it. More laundry to do, bedsheets, etc. Cleaned the apartment, made cookie dough to take tomorrow to Caputo's, prepared for Sunday, did my Italian studies, had a visit from Anna Maria Miscioscia, then skyped the afternoon away with the daughter / grandchildren etc. Rained most of the day, so did not take a walk today, however, was not without exercise, as I made at least 15 trips up and down 2 flights of stairs (34 steps each up and and down) just going to the laundry and back. Then early to bed as I know tomorrow is an early rise day.
January 25, 2015, Sunday
So much or going to bed early, as I couldn't sleep. Had to get up anyway, so happy to go to bed tonight!
What a lovely day today! Caught a ride with Luigi this morning, so no bus today. The usual church at Caputo's, (I spoke in Italian again! Yeah for me! ) then lunch (3 hours as usual). Cristina's sister was visiting from Naples, so they also joined us, and Freda is back from Australia, as I mentioned earlier, so was very happy to see her today!! Had a wonderful lunch and visit and seeing her pictures from 'down under'. Also a little birthday celebration today for Nicola (68). I baked the cookies at Cristina's.
About 4pm, Marco drove me back to my apartment, as I was to meet Damiano there at 5:30 to go to Mafalda's. Was a lovely evening there, then returned home around 8:30ish. He thought Freda and I looked like twins (well we are sisters of sorts) :) We had a great visit on the return.
Freda coming for a visit in the morning at 9, so this is it for tonight folks, since that means I will have to get up before 9 in the morning! Buonanotte! Parlare con te domani.
January 26, 2015, Monday
Wonderful visit with Freda this morning and then when she was ready to walk back to their apartment about 12:30, I walked with her, since I hadn't taken my walk yet today. Maria and Crengutsa had prepared lunch, so I stayed and had lunch with them. Maria had made a wonderful minestrone soup! Then of course vegies, meat, fruit, bread, coffee. Always plenty to eat!! Directly after lunch, I headed back to my place and it is now 3pm, so my day is far gone and I still have to study!! So Italian, here I come ready or not!!!
January 27 - 28, 2015
Not much happened Tuesday and Wednesday. Just the usual studying, walking, and trying to 'patch my previous blog posts' back up (this has taken me days and hours and hours)! Then the usual cleaning lady came today, and then after lunch I got ready early to go to church so I could catch the bus to get there on time. Routine is great! Was wonderful to have three sisters there tonight. And, I am getting better (so they said) with speaking in Italian!! Perhaps there is hope for me yet!
Marco and Cristina with Roberto brought me home tonight. They needed to stop at the market, so that was great with me, since it gave me a chance to pick up a few things too. My daughter's pictures arrived in the post today (at Caputo's where I get my mail). Loved getting them!!
Turned pretty cold here in Bari today (55 degrees F), my jacket felt really good! May not need it much, but sure nice to have it when needed.
Off to slumberland now. Ci vediamo domani !
January 29, 2014, Thursday
Another nice day in Bari. After my morning routine, I spent most of the day working on my blog pictures. I a caught up with them all but one now. Hopefully tomorrow I will get them all back together!!! What a relief!
Took a break in the afternoon and walked to the market. Had put my coat on, thinking it looked cold out, but when I exited the building, I wish I had left worn something lighter. It was very nice out today, although overcast. It is raining now tonight.
Spent more time on skype, had a bite to eat, anyway it is off to slumberland now.
January 30, 2014, Friday
Wow, this month is fast coming to a close. Today, I am determined to get this blog business restored before the end of the month, so have spent the entire day working on it and just now at about 11pm, I am DONE!! And all backed up this time!!! YEAH!! Was nice that it rained today, as I was content to stay inside and concentrate on getting it done :) Now I can get back to my normal daily routine.
So that's it for today folks. Nothing exciting... a few emails were shared with me, other than that nothing to report today. Buonanotte.
January 31, 2014, Saturday
And the month ends! Was a wonderful feeling when I finally got up this morning (9:30), to know that I would not have to work on my blog rebuild!!! Back to my usual Saturday routine of cleaning, laundry, walking, studying, etc.
Went to my favorite bread store today on my walk and it is a good thing they are not open when I usually walk by, or I would probably not be losing weight. There bread is soooo good. It is organic and whole grain with seeds and nuts, etc. My favorite kind of bread.
I was drinking so much tea to stay awake and alert when I was trying to get my blog restored and staying up late every night, that it was hard for me to fall asleep when I did go to bed. Tonight, I feel like I could crash now and it is only 7:30! My friend Gail in Stati Uniti sent me some tea at xmas time and I liked it so much, that I used almost every bag already!!
But early bed for me tonight is good, as tomorrow is an early rise day, with the normal church and lunch at Caputo's. Also, must practice, practice, practice my Italian for tomorrow, so they can understand me!! The words are starting to fit my mouth better :) Won't have to get up quite as early, since Luigi will pick me up in the morning and that gives me an extra hour.
Had a wonderful day today, hope the same goes for all of you as well!!
Love their play on words. This is a very big and very nice market, however, their prices also reflect this :) They have many things here that I cannot find anywhere else, and unique things as well. They have a nice restaurant and other shopping.
This is about a 45 minute walk from me, so makes for a nice outing. I usually catch the bus back, if I purchase anything much, otherwise, I walk back also, getting in a very looong walk then. :)
Now I will post this blog and start on February tomorrow Already!
Ciao and Buonanotte!
