Wednesday, July 1st
Up and at it this morning. Much to do, then off to catch the bus at 4pm to Caputo's for church this evening. Looked at two more apartments today, but neither are what I need.Had a nice walk though, and then stopped at the market on the way home. Blog, blog, blog, finally got Switzerland done. Now one more to go! Yeah!
Thursday, July 2nd
Off to the Chiropractor early this morning. Caught the bus that would have gotten me there about 10 minutes early, so I wouldn't have to race and be all hot and sweaty, however, when we were less than half way there, the bus broke down... radiator hose perhaps... anyway, green fluid running out from under the bus. I then had to wait for another bus, so really hurried after I got off the bus and arrived about five minutes late... exactly what I had hoped to avoid!
Walked back part of the way today, but was just too hot, so after I took pictures of the beach and looked at some apartment rental signs posted to get more places to look at, I decided, I just better take the bus at least back to the center of the city, which I did, then walked from there. Just too hot today, however, that is also why the beaches were full. Everyone going to the sea.
Up early to get all my paperwork for my permesso together and then Liliana is meeting me at the Poste to get it mailed and set my appointment with the Questura.
The process itself didn't really take all that long, as I had all my paperwork in order, however, we had to stand in line for about an hour, there were so many people in there. The Centro office was closed, so this one being the closest is probably why so many came here, also it was lunch time, so everyone wanted to do it on their lunch breaks. The experience of going to the Post Office here is unique.
First you must enter the building which is as well protected as a bank vault. This makes sense in an only-in-Italy kind of way since most of the post office's activity, oddly enough, involves banking-type transactions rather than postal business. In many postal locations you have to enter through a set of narrow sliding doors which close behind you, leaving you encased in a little glass cubicle where you wait for the inner set of doors to open and permit you access to the interior. You are presumably scanned for firearms while you stand in your fishbowl being sized up by those already inside.
Once you're deemed sufficiently benign to enter, you must figure out which sportello you need, because only one window is devoted to actual mail. Other windows are for paying bills and parking tickets, or for the Banco Posta. Another window seems always to be set aside for some kind of Very Important Business where several employees gather together going over paperwork while in deep conversation, ignoring the restless hoards.
Because here in Italy, the whole crowd rushes to a window rather than queuing, the post office has installed a number machine. In theory this is a great idea to make things run more smoothly. In practice, it is as confusing as having no queue at all. The machine offers options according to the type of business you wish to conduct, so you must choose and press the correct button to obtain your number. No one knows which button to push. You close your eyes, hope you've chosen wisely, and receive a numbered ticket. Then you wait. People group together examining everyone else's tickets and keeping vigilant eyes on the digital signs, and quick to step up to the window if someone whose number is called, isn't quick enough with their business. Dead tickets lay on the floor, scattered evidence of those who gave up hope and departed.
Despite the number system, there are inevitably those who feign ignorance and pretend the machine does not exist. They are nearly always elderly men, and they are wily old buzzards who hawkishly watch the windows and the people waiting to determine their moment to swoop in. They always seem to peg me as prey, noting immediately that I'll be a push-over. They edge their way forward, usually saying they "only have a simple question ..." and upon reaching the counter... you guessed it... take at least ten minutes. One such man did this to me, saying he only needed a couple of stamps. A couple? Try seventy. Which they didn't have at the counter. When the clerk returned from some High Security Stamp Storage room in the bowels of the building, the man pulled out a stack of bills he needed to pay. Unfortunately, my sadly-lacking command of the Italian language didn't permit me to say, "hey ya old fart, take a number and wait your turn!" Instead, I just remembered I am retired, living in the slow lane, not here to change anyone or anything, just accepting it all in stride. Actually, the clerk who allowed him to butt his way into line in the first place was the one who should be held responsible, but again, that is 'just how things are done here in Italy'. So there you have it... how to use the Postal system in Italy.
After this, Liliana and I had lunch at this really nice restaurant called Frulez. Organic food and also fresh fruit smoothies. We had the salmon burger and a fresh pineapple, ginger, etc smoothie. It was delish! Not fried like in US...this was fresh and the bread was dark grains and oats. Oh my. My new favorite place to eat! I'll be back.
On my way home, I picked up cucumbers, peppers and onions to make some refrigerator pickles. I love these things. I make a batch about every two weeks. However, I made a bit extra this time, as I want to give some to Caputo's and Luigi and Teresa.
At 5:30 this evening I went with Damiano to look at another apartment. This one might be it, however, will still need to wait to hear back from the owner about the furniture and hoping to negotiate the price a little. Anyway, it is just around the corner from where I currently am, however, I lose my view of the sea. After we looked at the apartment, we stopped at the coffee shop on the corner of my block and had a drink while we discussed the apartment.
Saturday July 4th
I don't have an oven as most of you are aware from my previous posts, but I really wanted to bake something to take to Caputo's tomorrow. A German Chocolate cake sounded exactly like what I wanted, since my daughter had sent me some wonderful pecans from the US (can't get them here... they don't even know what they are, and also walnuts they have, but they are just nuts, since they don't have a variety of other kinds. They had never heard them called walnuts before).
Anyway, I digress. I started doing a bit of searching on the 'net and sure enough, a cake supposedly can be cooked in a crock pot!! Well, it really worked! It was probably the most moist German Chocolate cake I've ever baked. I just found a better way to make a cake!
Sunday, July 5th
Luigi picked me up this morning and that made it really nice! Especially since I had so much to take, with the cake and the pickles, plus, I also took a change of clothes and shoes, since I always stay all day there. It was very hot today and humid. Freda and Maria were also along for the ride ☺
There were several extras in our group this morning, I asked Mariella if it would be possible to get a group photo so here it is. Turned out very nice, even with the tree shadows a bit. The new little camera has a ten second timer, so I had to hurry to get in it but didn't make it, so Marco did the running instead.☺
Ale and I on the ride home. She is such a sweetheart.
Monday, July 6th
First thing this morning, I got a text from Damiano. He had talked to the owner of the apartment and I was amazed at how much he was able to get included with the rent. She is getting married and moving to France, however, she had exceptionally nice furniture and he convinced her to leave it all, that I would take very good care of it! And I would have, however, when he told me the price of all these 'benefits', it was a bit steep for me. When I mentioned this, he said make an offer. The difficult thing about that is, what they were asking and what I knew I could really afford, was a fair gap, and I didn't want her to feel like I was diminishing the value of her things. I needed to think about it.
First thing this morning, I got a text from Damiano. He had talked to the owner of the apartment and I was amazed at how much he was able to get included with the rent. She is getting married and moving to France, however, she had exceptionally nice furniture and he convinced her to leave it all, that I would take very good care of it! And I would have, however, when he told me the price of all these 'benefits', it was a bit steep for me. When I mentioned this, he said make an offer. The difficult thing about that is, what they were asking and what I knew I could really afford, was a fair gap, and I didn't want her to feel like I was diminishing the value of her things. I needed to think about it.
So in the meantime, I went and looked at two more apartments. Still no luck.
House numbering is crazy here. Typically, even numbers on one side of the street and odd numbers on the other. If a building is twice the size as the one across the street, then the numbering should be adjusted for that, keeping say 130 through 140 in the same block. That way when you see 135 on one side of the street, you will know that 136 is just across the street not down the street two or three blocks!!! I'm on to them now though... they can't fool me! On another street I was just on, 129 is on one side and 80 is on the other! Really!
House numbering is crazy here. Typically, even numbers on one side of the street and odd numbers on the other. If a building is twice the size as the one across the street, then the numbering should be adjusted for that, keeping say 130 through 140 in the same block. That way when you see 135 on one side of the street, you will know that 136 is just across the street not down the street two or three blocks!!! I'm on to them now though... they can't fool me! On another street I was just on, 129 is on one side and 80 is on the other! Really!
Cruise ships come and go everyday. I happened to have my camera today just as I was walking down this street toward the sea, however, the lighting was not so good this time.
Tuesday, July 7th
Well I viewed five more apartments today, starting at 9am. Walking to all of them and climbing stairs. So far, each apartment has been on either the 4th or 5th floor... each floor on average has 22 steps. One I counted 96 steps, a couple of the others 65 each. By the end of this day, I had walked about 3 miles, and climbed up and down about 400 or 500 stairs. Love the exercise, but getting frustrated that it is this difficult to find a suitable apartment.
I see the craziest things when I am out and about. I often wish I wore a head camera to capture these things. One I saw today... there are so many scooters here in Italy and just like people in their cars driving and talking on their cell phones, they do that on their scooters here. This one today even had a passenger on too!
Still unable to find a doctor to do a simple, physical exam!! It seems like the simpler things are, the more complicated they become. Getting a physical and finding an apartment. How can these two things be so difficult?
Wednesday, July 8th
The German Chocolate cake I had made in my crock pot last Sunday and took to Caputo's had turned out so well, I wanted to try and make another one. So while it was 'baking' or should I say 'crocking', I spent all morning on the computer searching for more apartments to view. Unlike in the USA, where you have a realtor showing you everything that is available, here, you have to contact the realtor that has the property listed. They cannot show each other's property. There is no 'multi listings' here. Big Pain! I saw an apartment just around the corner from one I was looking at, but he couldn't show it to me. I had to try and find the realtor who had it listed and then make arrangements to see it another day. Keep in mind, there are thousands and thousands of apartments here, so a lot of time is wasted just locating them without multi listings.
Then off to Caputo's on the bus at 4pm. The return bus was late again, so didn't arrive home until about 8:30. But on the walk home from the bus, I stopped at the photo shop and made more copies of the picture I took on Sunday, because after giving them to all who were at church tonight, I realized I wasn't going to have near enough with just the original copies I had made.
Thursday, July 9th
Up early, then to the bus by 9:30, to go see yet another apartment. The owner was about an hour late in meeting me, and then I had a long wait for the return bus back, so didn't arrive back home until 13:30. A long morning just to see one apartment. However, it is the one I will take if all goes as planned. We are suppose to meet again on Tuesday to work out the details. The apartment is not furnished, however, he was willing to put in a kitchen for me, and really, that is all I need. I can purchase an inexpensive bed, etc., however, he mentioned he would furnish the whole apartment, and if he does that, it will raise the price... just have to see how much.
While I was waiting for the owner, I wandered around the area a bit to see what the 'village' was like. Not like Centro, more laid back, however, a nice enough area, and the apartment is right next to the beach on the 6th floor. I am really hoping this one goes through!
On my walk home from the bus, I picked up some of the sweetest tomatoes I've had for a very long time. They tasted like candy to me. I bought a huge bag of them and have been eating them all afternoon.
Decided to do my laundry this evening.. seems like there is so many others trying to use the machine on Friday night and Saturday. But they must have had the same idea... three of us showed up down there. Since they won't let us do laundry during the day, the least they could do is provide more than one washer and dryer. That is the one thing I am sure hoping for is my own washer in my next apartment.
I had phoned Damiano yesterday, asking to meet with him, but he was busy and then this evening he phoned and wanted to know if I was taking the apartment he had found for me. I really wanted to talk to him in person about the whole issue, so asked if we could meet the next day. Told him I had a big piece of chocolate cake for him ☺
And last but not least today, was thinking of my sister on her birthday today.
Friday, July 10th
Blog, Blog, Blog. I have spent hours and hours trying to get my May tour blog post finished. I really wanted to get it finished before the end of June, but of course, I wanted to find and apartment by then too, and that didn't happen either. Anyway, I am now determined to get my posts completed and caught up to current date. I love my blogs when they are done, and it is such a wonderful 'diary' for my time here in Europe, but they do take lots of time. It works best for me to do it daily or at least not more than two or three days at a time. So most of this day was dedicated to blogging.
About 5:30 Damiano came by and we discussed the apartment he had found. He is such a nice man and very concerned that I will find something in a safe area. Anyway, I gave him big piece of cake to take and then headed off to see another apartment on Putigina. Later that night I got a message... he loved the cake! Of all the bakery's here and all the coffee shops, they don't have any dessert like we make in the US. Everything here is very dry and bready and not too sweet. No wonder he loved the German Chocolate cake.
Saturday, July 11th
Did the usual Saturday cleaning, etc., church preparations, then spent a good portion of the day again working on the blog posts. As I said, I am determined to get this May Tour finished! But now, it is time to take a break and walk along this beautiful sea and head to the beach for a bit of a swim.
Sunday, July 12th
I don't understand why, but almost every Saturday night, I have so much trouble getting to sleep and staying asleep. This makes it so difficult, because I have to get up early on Sunday mornings, especially if I am catching the bus. This morning, I really had to hustle to catch it, and for a minute, I actually thought I had missed it. Glad I didn't.
Spent the day at Caputo's, and Luigi and Ale came by for a while. Liliana was there this day and took the children to the beach, however, Cristiano was in Sicily. I walked to Mafalda's about 5:30, but that was a mistake, as it was just too hot. Luigi brought me home and I was glad this day. The weather has really turned up the heat, so not so comfortable walking in the daytime now.
Liliana informed me that she had set up a Dr. appointment for me with her doctor. I was beginning to think I was never going to find a doctor to give me a Physical Exam. Anyway, waiting for her to call me for the exact day and time.
Monday, July 13th
I worked all day on my France - Paris blog post. I am determined to get it done.
Tuesday, July 14th
And again today, all day I worked on the France blog, and finally late in the afternoon, I got it posted and what a relief. Maybe now I can have my normal routine life back ☺. I wouldn't have minded doing the Tour blog so much if I hadn't been so busy with all this apartment business, permesso renewal, finding a doctor, etc., but it took so much of my time, and since finding an apartment, etc., is a priority, it felt like the blog was tying up some valuable time. Also, I knew the longer it took me to get it finished, the more I was forgetting.
Thinking of my oldest daughter this morning... actually have been thinking of her for several days. She turns 41 today! Wish I were there to celebrate with her... for many reasons, but alas, it is what it is. Can't have everything... or at least not all at once ☺Happy Birthday Julia!
I was very disappointed regarding the man and the apartment I finally found and am hoping to get. He was suppose to meet with me today. I phoned him to see what time we could meet, but he was otherwise engaged and could not. Said he would call me, however, I have not heard from him all day.
Good news though from Liliana. She called and said I can get in to see her doctor tomorrow for an appointment to get my physical for my Health Insurance. That is good news... however, the bad news, she is not available to go tomorrow, as she has to work, so I will have to make this happen on my own. Her doctor speaks some English, so this is good and also he is in a different town where I've never been before. I will have to figure out the train connection and also where exactly his office is located, since I will have to walk from the train station. I will know by tomorrow though ☺
I was so focused on getting my blog posted and thinking about the apartment, the doctor appt, etc., that I failed to eat all day. About 7pm I suddenly realized I was hungry, so I stopped and made a onion, garlic, bell pepper, tomato and cheese omelet. It was very good!
I worked all day on my France - Paris blog post. I am determined to get it done.
Tuesday, July 14th
And again today, all day I worked on the France blog, and finally late in the afternoon, I got it posted and what a relief. Maybe now I can have my normal routine life back ☺. I wouldn't have minded doing the Tour blog so much if I hadn't been so busy with all this apartment business, permesso renewal, finding a doctor, etc., but it took so much of my time, and since finding an apartment, etc., is a priority, it felt like the blog was tying up some valuable time. Also, I knew the longer it took me to get it finished, the more I was forgetting.
Thinking of my oldest daughter this morning... actually have been thinking of her for several days. She turns 41 today! Wish I were there to celebrate with her... for many reasons, but alas, it is what it is. Can't have everything... or at least not all at once ☺Happy Birthday Julia!
I was very disappointed regarding the man and the apartment I finally found and am hoping to get. He was suppose to meet with me today. I phoned him to see what time we could meet, but he was otherwise engaged and could not. Said he would call me, however, I have not heard from him all day.
Good news though from Liliana. She called and said I can get in to see her doctor tomorrow for an appointment to get my physical for my Health Insurance. That is good news... however, the bad news, she is not available to go tomorrow, as she has to work, so I will have to make this happen on my own. Her doctor speaks some English, so this is good and also he is in a different town where I've never been before. I will have to figure out the train connection and also where exactly his office is located, since I will have to walk from the train station. I will know by tomorrow though ☺
I was so focused on getting my blog posted and thinking about the apartment, the doctor appt, etc., that I failed to eat all day. About 7pm I suddenly realized I was hungry, so I stopped and made a onion, garlic, bell pepper, tomato and cheese omelet. It was very good!
I had eaten a bowl of brown rice when I first got up, but that was all until after 7pm. I love brown rice and eat it almost every day. In the mornings I throw a handful of raisins and a half teaspoon of cinnamon in it. I seem to crave it. Then sometimes I have it with chicken, another way I really like it.
Wednesday, July 15th.
Up and at it at 7 this morning, as its cleaning lady day, my usual getting organized for church and then off to my doctor appointment for my Physical which Liliana had so kindly, but not without much difficulty, set up for me, after talking with her doctor.
Anyway, it was a scorcher here today, 35C and I walked to the train station, which in itself was bearable, but when I got on the train, their was no A/C and it must have been at least 45C in there. I started sweating profusely. Then 30 minutes later, after I arrived in the town where the doctor was, shutters were closed, streets were vacant; everything was shut down for the afternoon 'siesta' so couldn't even find a place to purchase a bottle of water.
I was about half hour early for my appointment, and of course, you guessed it, office doors were locked, nobody home, so I sat down under a shade tree and waited. Then at 4:15 up showed the doctor and other people, so even though my appointment was at 4:15, that is just a time 'to get in line'. By this time, I am 'not fresh as a daisy' from all this sweating and I was concerned because I was going to have a physical exam.... well I needn't have been concerned... but let me back up here a little...
I had to get a physical for my Medical Insurance that covers me living out of the US. That sounds easy doesn't it? Exactly what I thought, until I started trying to find a doctor. Even called on all my friends here to help and there is not a Doctor that does Physical Exams. They don't even know what they are. None of my friends know either and none of their doctors knew, and their doctors even talked to some of their doctor friends. Zippo, zilch, nada. Just trying to find a doctor to do a simple physical exam has become almost as difficult as finding another apartment!
Anyway, just to be on the safe side, I sent the Insurance agent an email, asking him to spell out exactly what he was expecting... his reply was very generic. Here is the email exchange we had:
Good evening David,
I am currently living in Italy, and just want to make sure I get the proper paperwork.
Do you have any guidelines that the Physical Examination should follow.
You also mentioned Lab Tests. Are there any in particular that I need to make sure and have done.
Any forms you have would be helpful.
Sincerely, Carmen
Dear Ms. Holloway,
IMG does not have a requirement for what must be done.
We believe it is best for the doctor to conduct the physical examination based upon your
age, gender, and his or her experience. We only asks that all biometrics measured,
lab tests (if any are done), and the examining doctor’s interpretation of the information
obtained in the exam be sent. Thank you. David
Now to you and I this seems easy and straight forward enough, but the Doctors here still didn't get it. They have NEVER done such an exam. Every field of work here is very specific and specialized. I tried to explain that it is not complicated. It is not difficult. Yet obviously it was, because even today when I arrived for my appointment, the doctor asked me, "Now what is it you need?" Once again, I tried to explain it... height, weight, blood pressure, etc.
This is where it got funny to me. He did not even know how to measure my height! They don't care about such things here and it appeared he had never even done this 'procedure' before. I showed him, by backing up to the wall, asking for something flat to put on my head, then told him to measure that. He took about a 12 inch RULER, and without holding even a finger to mark his place, just started roughly measuring up the wall, with huge gaps between where he had last placed it!!!! I said that will never do, it has to be exact, and he says, "not important". Oh my goodness!!! Finally I just told him how tall I was, then he said he needed it in centimeters, so I got on my phone, went to google, put in the inches to cm and converted it!!! Wow!!! So many people in Italy are short and since there are very very few overweight Italians, they don't care about BMI (height/weight/fat), so why bother to measure.
Then, he said, "Now what?" Well, I said, how much do I weigh... and at least he had a scale... like one you would have in your bathroom! He did however, have a blood pressure cuff and took my blood pressure which I am sure is not accurate, as I had just taken it at the Pharmacy here last week and it was 135/65. Today he said it was 110/70 . I have never had high blood pressure, and it has always been a little on the low side, but 110?? Whatever. Must be all that garlic I eat ☺
He had no forms, just took a piece of blank paper and started writing. If the insurance accepts this I will be more surprised than a little! I couldn't even read it and I think I know what some of it was supposed to say!
That I was concerned about body sweat going into this appointment really makes me smile... I think the doctor was doing way more sweating than I did!!
Oh the things we take for granted, living in a country like the US. So many things have to do with our exposure, and even what is to us the simplest things, can become complicated if you have never seen or experienced it before. One of the things I said when I first arrived here, that even though they have cars and computers, it is like America was in the 1950's in so many ways. And their attitude as a whole is 'live and let live' and drive and walk however, whenever, and where ever you want! Rules?? what rules? And they don't need someone or anyone to tell them they are healthy or not... Physical Exam? What's a Physical Exam?!!!!
Well, by the time that appointment was finished and I caught the train back to Bari, and walked home, it was about 7pm, so needless to say, I did not make it to church this evening. I was disappointed about that. I thought I would have to rush a bit to make it back from my appointment, but still get to church, however, I wasn't even able to catch the return train until 6pm and that is the time church started. I sent a note to Freda, and her reply made me even more disappointed, as she said Crengutsa was here tonight :( .
About the train back. I know a shortcut over the tracks which is about 10 minutes closer to my apartment, and being that it was so hot today, that seemed like the right thing to do. I got off one stop before the Bari station intending to go home that way. Boys oh boys... my day for sweating. That 'shortcut' had been barricaded for some track work they were doing and wouldn't be open for two weeks. So now, I had to walk around... need I say, my shower felt really good tonight. Also, this ice cold beer and an air conditioned apartment! I've had about enough excitement for one day... time to pack it in and head for bed.
Thursday, July 16th
Another lovely morning, after a late rise and a very nice phone call from Freda, and the A/C is ON! Going to be hot in Bari today, I can tell already as it is 86F this early in the day. Forecast is 95F and almost 50% humidity! Think I'll be staying in most of the day, except for a swim in the sea this afternoon.
Trying another crock pot recipe. Had bananas that needed to be used, so 'baking' banana bread. Hope it turns out as good as the German Chocolate cakes did. I'll let you know in about 4 hours.
Sure hoping to hear today from the man about the apartment I want to rent, so I can get a signed contract and be on my way to conv. preps. Karen Eicher arrives and along with Freda and Maria they leave on Tuesday for Petacciato.
Friday, July 17th
Well a little disappointed with the crock pot banana bread. It burned a little on the bottom before it was done in the middle... perhaps next time I will put only half the batter in at a time, so it won't be so thick.
Sure enough, received a note back from the Insurance... they sent the document to their translators and could not read it, so have asked for a more legible copy. ☺ Knew that was going to happen.
Off to the beach now, as it is too hot to do anything else today. The water was super calm and clear today... warm as a bathtub. Stayed in a little longer than I probably should have, but was perfect.
People just congregate along the promenade and sit and enjoy the sea and the evening just as the sun was setting. Never cooled off much this day, was still 91F at 10pm.
Woke up with an infection this morning, so was really glad last July when I was in the states, that I had picked up an extra prescription of Antibiotics. Don't know what kind of luck I would have had getting them here without a Dr. This highly curtails my beach time, as I can't be in the direct sunlight while taking antibiotics.
Other than that, nothing out of the ordinary today; cleaned the house, did the laundry (6 hours to just wash and dry one load of bedsheets... crazy system they have here!). Only went outside in the evening for my walk, but otherwise decided to stay in where it was cool today.
Sunday, July 19th
Too hot to walk to the bus this morning, so Luigi picked me up along with Freda and Maria and I really appreciated it. After church we all stayed for dinner with Caputo's. Missed the 'kids' this morning. They had all left on Wednesday to go spend a couple weeks with Cristina's folks in Greece.
Massimo, Carlo, Daniele, Stefano
Nicola Stasi, Massimo, Carlos Stasi
Mariella and Nicola Caputo
Maria & Freda
Luigi, Nicola, Giacinto
Me, Caterina, Luigi
Luigi and I
Maria and I
Freda and I
Luigi and Massimo
Freda, Tonia & Giacinto
Back: Nicola, Mariella, Tonia, Maria, Carmen, Mafalda, Freda
Front: Nicola Stasi, Massimo, Giacinto, Carlo, Luigi
The young man who has been renting the apartment across the hall moved out today. Flaviano has been such a sweet neighbor, sorry to see him leave. He was here for six months, but it was only the last three months that we really got acquainted.
Had wonderful news today, another grandchild made a very wise choice. Makes my heart so Happy!
A real scorcher out today, other than the beach this afternoon for about an hour, my plan is to stay right here in the A/C.
Tuesday, July 21st
Talked to the cleaning lady this morning about the apartment across the hall. I don't have the phone number for the owners, since I went through their manager, Damiano, when I rented my current apartment and he doesn't have any others in this building. My one year lease is up on this apartment... perhaps by getting another apartment they will agree to that? I can only hope. Anyway, the cleaning lady said she will talk to the owners for me. So we will see.
Well, that didn't work out. Shortly after I talked to the cleaning lady, I texted Damiano, just to see what he had to say, and he asked me to come to his office (just around the corner). He said he has an agreement with the owners that they cannot 'steal' his clients for 2 years and even though he doesn't have any rentals available for me they cannot rent to me, since he has a vested interested in their apartments. Oh my, how complicated this all is here!
However, while I was talking to Damiano, I mentioned about the other apartment I really liked on the sea and his secretary said she knew that man and would give him a call since I have not been able to make contact with him. For whatever that is worth... I'm not sure she will actually call him... strange bunch these Italians, and strange way they have of doing business.
Damiano had shown me another apartment a couple weeks ago, and even though I really liked it, it did not have some things I really would like to have, and also, the price was very high. Now however, since I had not been able to secure the apartment on the sea that I really wanted, I approached Damiano again about this other apartment and he told me to make an offer to the owner.
Now off to the sea for my daily swim. Another gorgeous sunny day here in Bari, but very hot.
Along in the evening, Damiano had heard from the owner of the original apartment he had shown me, the one I made an offer on today and we further discussed all the details. We came to an agreement. I told him I would give him a definite answer tomorrow.
Then....
Well, wouldn't you know it, within minutes of finishing that conversation with Damiano, I received a text from the man with the apartment on the sea, that he had been on vacation in Greece is why I had not heard from him and he could meet with me next week. I told him I had committed to making a decision by tomorrow about another apartment, since I had not heard from him and if he could meet me early in the morning. He replied that he could meet me at 4pm in the afternoon. I was really disappointed, because tomorrow being Wednesday, I knew that I could meet with him, but not for long, as I would need to be on my way to Caputo's, also, if he was late, like he was the first time I met with him, then I would not be able to. Anyway, I left it at that and knew I needed to do some more thinking about this whole thing. I wonder if this day will hold any more surprises.
Wednesday, July 22nd
I had a terrible rest last night. I went to bed early, as I was very very tired, but then laid there and tossed and turned until some time after 3am, before finally falling into a fitful sleep. Got up about 8am as I knew the cleaning lady would be coming soon.
After a bite to eat, etc., and some more 'thinking' about all this apartment business...
Hmmmm, what to do. I toyed with the idea of the beautiful sea-view, 6th floor, garage for a car, brand new, cheaper, perfect apartment, (except for location) for some time, however, in the end, I knew what I needed to do.
The sea-view apartment is almost perfect (the area could be better), however, I really need someone I can depend on to answer my phone calls (I had called and texted that man 4 or 5 times and there had been no response until now a week later) and someone I can trust. Damiano has proved to be a great landlord and 'friend', so even though, I really, really would love to have the other apartment, I chose to continue to work with Damiano and rent through him. All I need to do now is let him know, so this morning I did just that.
So as of now, as soon as Damiano gets the contract prepared, I will have rented another apartment, one with a renewable contract, so next year, hopefully, I won't have to go through all of this again. It is just down the block and around the corner from where I am currently living, so won't have far to move. Also, I won't have to give up my Promenade, and will be where I am already familiar with everything (bus, train, etc.) and near all the great shopping in Centro. Finally! Now to just get that contract signed and registered...
Time to head to the sea for a swim.
Oh no, while I was at the sea, I put my glasses in my bag. When I returned and got ready to leave, they were broken in half on the nose piece. It appeared as if someone had stepped on my bag.
Showered and cleaned up and off to catch the bus a bit early, as I want to stop by the Ottica to check on whether I can fix my glasses.
Thursday, July 23rd
So nice to feel rested this morning. I had a great sleep last night. Woke up very early though at 5:30am...guess I had all the sleep my body needed.
Yesterday was a scorcher out. Hot and very humid. After my swim I may as well not have showered. Before I even got to the Ottica, I was a ball of sweat.
And the Ottica were not able to 'weld' the nose piece back together (or just wanted to sell me new frames, as that was what they were pushing). Anyway, I have an old pair of glasses I am currently wearing.
By the time I walked the rest of the way to the bus, rode the bus to Caputo's and then walked to their house, I was ready for another shower or at least a swim in the sea.
Mariella, Nicola, Mafalda and I last night around the table. Tried to catch the early bus back, however, I don't know why some of the buses are not coming as scheduled lately. I again had to wait 30 minutes for it to arrive, so didn't get back to Lungomare until after 8pm, tossed my sweat soaked clothes into the washer and sat in my apartment under the A/C with a cold drink. Also, checked on-line and found the exact glasses frames I had, so ordered them. Hopefully they arrive in a timely manner, as my old glasses work, just not as well.
No big plans for today, just the normal routine swim, etc.
Friday, July 24th
About a month ago, a woman moved into the apartment right next to the laundry room downstairs. Every time any of the rest of us in the building put our things in the dryer, she will take them out and put hers in, even if our things are not dry. After the third time of this, we finally asked her if she could please wait until they were dry. That made her really angry. She acts like it is her personal laundry and we are all 'intruding' when we use it too.
Another thing, every time I come downstairs, she hears me coming and opens her door and just stands there and glares. I am convinced she is a bit crazy and scary! I told Damiano about this and one day when he was here, he walked by and saw her and said she does look big and scary. It is not one of his apartments so nothing he could do about her, however, the building owner is who she rents her apartment from and the owners are about as weird as she is, so probably wouldn't do any good to report her.
I was standing on my balcony one evening, and watched as this crazy woman drove up the street looking for a place to park. She has a big BMW, SUV, even big my US standards, and was determined to park it in a space where it just was not going to fit. I watched as she hit the car behind her, then the car in front of her over and over and over. The traffic was backed up more than a block on the street was waiting and waiting and finally all started honking, until she finally gave up and pulls out and screeches down the street looking for two more cars to hit I guess. Then after all this, even if she had been able to squeeze her car into that small space, she would have gotten a ticket anyway, as it was in front of a posted driveway and they always give tickets there.
Watching her try to force her car into that spot by hitting the other cars over and over like that made me realize, that she is very egotistical and is determined to have things her way no matter what. I mentioned about her to several people here and they say there are lots of people like her here in Italy. I am just glad that I haven't had the 'privilege' of meeting up with any before and hopefully I don't meet too many more, because they are frightening to be around. Not too many people drive big expensive cars like that here, so some think she probably has 'connections' and that is why she is such a bully about things. She is used to getting her way by force.
Saturday, July 25th
Well, a new chapter beginning, as I started packing up my things in preparation for moving. The difficult part is, I am less than a block from my new apartment and would have been so convenient to just move my things directly there, however, I cannot have access to that apartment before September 1st and my contract expires where I currently am on July 31st. I will have my final inspection at noon that day. Mafalda has so graciously and kindly offered to let me move my things to her home and stay with her for the month of August. That is such a privilege to get to stay with her. My things will be there, however, I will actually be gone most of the month to conventions.
My plan was to be at Petacciato preps this next week, now with moving, closing and signing the contract for my new apartment all to take place next week, it sure interfered with that plan! Freda sent me a note saying my bed was ready and waiting and now I cannot go this week. I have made plans now to go first thing the following Monday morning, then will not return to Bari, but go straight from there to Carema and then back to Petacciato, before returning to Bari on Aug. 20th.
Sunday, July 26th
Another scorching hot day here in Bari, so was very thankful for the ride to Caputo's this morning from Luigi.
Yesterday, I received a message from Liliana that I was invited with her folks to her and Cristiano's home for lunch today. First time I've been there to her home, however, I was in the town once. Anyway, after church, I rode with Mariella and Nicola to Liliana's for lunch and the afternoon. Cristiano was the chef and my was it ever good. Now that is what I call 'real' Italian cooking. Was really nothing so different, just the way it was cooked and the flavor was awesome. He had prepared a fish they had caught the day before too, and was it ever fresh and good.
After lunch, we all had a short rest, then the folks and I headed back to Mafalda's for the evening bible study. There were just five of us this evening, Caputo's, Mafalda, Daniele and me. Afterwards, Caputo's brought me back to my apartment about 8pm. Liliana had sent some boxes home with me for packing, so I worked a couple hours before bedtime on getting some more packing done.
It is amazing, how much stuff a person collects in just one year, and I was trying to be very careful and not purchase very much stuff. They say a person should either have a fire or move every five years.... well, I say they should move every!!! year!!! like I am. Sure makes you aware of just how much 'junk' you can get by without!
Monday, July 27th
Up early this morning to get as much paperwork done as possible, since I will not be doing much for the month of August. Also, after Friday, when I move out, I won't have very good Internet access, so don't know how much I will be able to do then. Trying to get as much done now as possible.
Also today, getting final packing done this morning, as I need to go to Valenzano this afternoon and get my Medical Certificate signed. This is the same document I went for originally, however, just as I suspected, it was hand written and the insurance company was not able to translate it, so I had to get another one, only typed this time. Anyway, headed to the train station about 3:30 and caught the train about 4:10... it was late and HOT. The A/C is certainly not working on these trains and it was blistering hot in there. Anyone who would leave a child or animal in a vehicle on a hot day is absolutely unaware of just how hot it can get. I was pouring sweat and it is only about a 25 minute train ride and that was four stops, with the doors opening and closing, so some hot air got circulated at those times. These days the Hot Winds from Africa are blowing into the south of Italy here and boys a' boys it is HOT.
Anyway, I arrived in Valenzano half hour early, as I wanted to be first in line, so I could get back home as quickly as possible and finish my packing since moving day is tomorrow. When I arrived, there were already two people ahead of me, so I still had to wait for a while. They don't really have appointment times here... everyone just queues up and waits. Liliana had warned me there would be a 'bunch' of old men there, and sure enough, that is exactly what happened. Funny thing to listen and watch them all visiting and hanging out waiting for the doctor to see them. There are some very quaint customs here.
Took only a couple minutes to get my paperwork sorted out then I was on my way and caught the next train back to Bari. On my walk back to the apartment, stopped at the market to pick up more strapping tape and a couple other items. While I was in the check-out line there was a young man in front of me and we struck up a conversation. Anyway, I soon realized he spoke English and he was a Doctor! Anyway, we continued our conversation outside the store, as I mentioned to him about my recent struggle with getting a Physical Exam. Anyway, I got his business card and he said to give him a call if I needed anything further! Also, he said he would do some research for also. A very nice young man and very helpful.
After I arrived home about 8pm, I went into final packing mode and making sure I had things separated as I would need to just store some things, keep out things for the next three days that I will need to sleep and stay in the apartment, another pile of things for preps and and a final pile for convs. I wanted to move everything in an orderly fashion, since I would be here in the apartment, my things somewhere else, and no convenient way to get to them until Saturday, when I will need to make sure everything, is where I need it for leaving town. Also, only wanted to leave bare minimum here in the apartment for these last few days, as I won't have a very convenient way to get them there on the bus on Friday afternoon. Left a few food items here too, so will need to make sure and only eat from the fridge the next three days :)
A bit of a late evening, as I wanted to make sure and having everything ready to go, as tomorrow morning early, Flaviano will come and help me move.
Tuesday, July 28th
Moving day has arrived! Up at 5:30, doing morning routine, then ready as Flaviano was very punctual and that was great! Mafalda was needing to leave today for a while, so I told her we would try to be there by 8am. Flaviano, was my neighbor who moved out about a week ago and he had offered to help me move. When I found out that I needed to move my things to Mafalda's that created a whole new issue for me, as I didn't have a car. Anyway, he has a very nice big car and had offered before, so I sent him a text a few days ago, and asked if his offer still stood, and told him the situation. He said he was available and free and would love to help me, so I really really appreciated that. I reimbursed him for his fuel and a little extra. What a nice young man!
I had to leave my nice shelf on the wall... was condition of owners when I put it up, that I would leave it when I left. Of course, the sofa and picture belongs to the apartment.
In my apartment, it looked like I had lots of things, because my space is small, but because her house is so big, my things only took up one small corner.
Also, we had lots of time to visit and we certainly did lots of that. We had previously had some extensive visits and bible discussions, so we pretty much continued on from where we left off a couple weeks ago. And then, he wants to come to America someday, so we discussed that a bit. Of course, the topic of "do you have any granddaughters my age" came up. He is 31 one, never been married and such a lovely young man.... so anyone looking, give me a shout ☺
The young lady from Australia I met last year at Carema and then she rode most of the way with me to Bari, phoned today to say she was coming to visit for a week! Talk about bad timing. I would have loved to have her, however, hopefully I will see her at Carema in a couple weeks, as she also hopes to come down from Switzerland where she is going to work. I told her to come see me in September when I get settled into my new apartment and have lots of room... 3 bedrooms! so that is the plan for now.
Damiano also phoned me this morning to set up the time to meet and close out my apartment on Friday and then meet the owner of the new apartment on Saturday, so that is all set now. This week will be busy, however, after I was all finished with moving today and only have the furnished things left in my apartment, it felt really good. I had a bite to eat, as it was just after noon and headed for the sea for a two hour soak. How I love the sea here! Now of course, I am back and blogging, trying to get this month of August done before I leave for Mafalda's on Friday, as there is NO Internet service there. Also, no air conditioning, so I will really miss that! Also no A/C in my new apartment either, so I will have to get used to it ☺
Wednesday, July 29th
Woke up early this morning. Just as well, as the cleaning lady is coming and I want to have the apartment cleaned before she comes. She has been so good to me, I also want to make sure everything is cleaned (cupboards washed, fridge cleaned, etc.) to make her job as easy as possible when I leave. She has a family and cleaning these apartments is really hard work for her everyday, then taking care of her children and husband, etc. Anyway, this will be my thank you gift to her and also I gave her a bottle of Organic Wine. She seemed very sad to see me leave, and said, "I will watch for you on the streets". I will be living near here, so I'm sure we will see each other from time to time.
Wonderful news, I got my insurance policy and now one more thing done for my Permesso. Yeah!!!
Now, off to the sea for another soak this morning. Yesterday the wind kicked up a bit and my usual sun spot was getting doused with water, so hopefully today, it is calmer.
Well, back from the sea and time to get ready and catch the bus for church at Caputo's. Marco and Cristina and the kids are supposed to return today, so will be nice to see them all again. They have been gone two weeks and I've missed them!
I have reserved a car to go to Petacciato on Monday, so one more thing checked off my list.
Was nice to see the 'kids' tonight and Marco brought me home, since it was so very hot today. Really appreciated that!
Last night the ambulance was called for an apartment building next to me. I was on the balcony when it arrived and was expecting to see them take someone out. However, after a little while nothing happened, so I went inside. After Marco let me out on Lungomare this evening and I walked past this way, I was surprised to see this... no need for an ambulance by the time it arrived, I guess. When someone dies this is how they announce it here.
Thursday, July 30th
Final cleaning today, then off to the sea for one last soak... for about three weeks anyway. This evening I threw in one last load of laundry in this place and it is currently in the dryer. Actually, it feels a bit sad / nostalgic to be leaving my first place here, especially since it had been such a nice place and fit my needs almost perfectly. Anyway, will say goodbye to it tomorrow, then get used to my new place in September.
Today at the sea, I saw my new little friend again. He is about 4 years old and always comes and tries to talk to me. His mother is also very friendly and speaks a little English, so visit as much as we can. Also another mother and her adult daughter visit with me some, as I see them almost everyday ☺ They are brown as toast! They must stay there for hours and hours. Something else, I've notice this summer more than last year, is how many people aren't very skinny this year.... at least I don't feel so out of place ☺ I like to float, and today, as I was just floating on my back, three young girls started calling Signora, signora... they thought something was wrong with me. I wiggled a finger and they laughed. After that we talked for a while, as they study English in school and I practice my very poor Italian on them. They liked it and tried to help me.. anyway, they were sweet girls and very friendly.
While I'm on the subject of size, something else I've been noticing a lot... even though there are many small people here and all the shoe stores seem to carry only the smaller sizes, there are lots who have large feet. There are also many misshapen feet here. Now that it is sandal weather they are more obvious. However, I don't think it is only because they can't get shoes large enough, they are just wearing shoes too small. I have noticed over and over how many women who have nice feet, but their sandals are definitely 1 to 2 sizes to short and their toes all hang over the front and/or their heels off the back. If they keep this up, they will have misshaped feet too in a few years. I guess it is pride? that they can buy a smaller size whether it fits or not ☺
Off I go, for my last sleep here... Buona notte Addis Abeba
Friday, July 31st
Well, today is the day. Woke up early this morning, feeling rested and eager to move on. I will meet with Damiano and the owners for final inspection at noon, so that means perhaps I will not be blogging for a few days, as Mafalda doesn't have Internet connection and although I have a mobile one, the reception is very poor there. I can never seem to get it to work at her house.
I have just a few things still here that I needed to use while I stayed here these last few days, so Liliana will pick me up at 1pm as she goes to her folks for lunch and they live next to Mafalda. I will drop my things at Mafalda's then have lunch with Caputo's. Then tonight will be my first night at Mafalda's, so we will see how that goes... she speaks no English and me very limited Italian... She told me Wednesday, that she will be gone most of the day on Saturday, so that will be an easy day, then Sunday is church, so others speak English if we get too bogged down, and then Monday morning I leave early for Petacciato. I am anxious to get there, as they have needed the help and I would have been there this whole week, if I would have been able to extend my contract by one month and not leave until the end of August. All this moving business sure interfered with my plans! Anyway, it is what it is and I am just glad to get there and help a few days before we all head to Carema. As of now, I think there will be two riding up with me from Petacciato. So excited for Conv. Received a text from Aurora Piccolo on Tuesday. She is happy too... we haven't seen each other since January.
Ciao, Ciao Addis Abeba, you've been good to me and I will miss you. Also mostly, I will miss Damiano, however, I am moving very close and will be just around the corner from both ☺ Hopefully Damiano and I will continue to have lunch together from time to time.
Now, I am going to publish this while I still have Internet service and if there is any other information later today, I will add to this later.
Okay, it is later... here are a few more things...
Damiano and I
All checked out, signed and gave Damiano the keys. Now I am just waiting for Liliana. Damiano said I could wait in the Aparment until she arrived, which was very nice of him, just close the self locking door behind me. I always get paranoid I will shut the door too soon and leave something behind, then have no key to get back in. I checked three times before I actually closed the door :)
My new room at Mafalda's for the next month. Well two weeks at least, since I will only be here three nights, then be gone until the 20th.
Anyway, Mafalda has a lovely old home and very big. She went to her daughter's for dinner this evening, and invited me, but I have just crashed.... been a long and busy week. So now I just want to put my brain in neutral and veg for the rest of the evening. Tomorrow, I will sort a few things and get packed up for my journey north.
Okay, that will do it for this month. Anything else that happens tonight will just have to wait, as I am very exhausted and going to bed very very early tonight!
Buona Notte!
