One Step At a Time

I was teasing Monday about going native...but really, I am!

Today I was handed an envelope with a ton of Italian on it. When I opened it up I found a rather official looking card with my name, DOB, and an ID number. I'm still not sure what the letter says but I know that card is crucial for when I finally find home sweet home- it's basically my Italian SSN.

The only other official document that I'm waiting for is my "green card" equivalent. Well, I do still need to pass that driver's license test. One step at a time...

30 Days!

It's been 30 days? How do I know? Well, after a long day at the office (I really can't have that many more training modules left at this point...) I found that my room key didn't work anymore. After trying several times and only getting a blinking red light- I ventured back downstairs to get the scoop from the guy who offered to be my secretary and a much younger guy with the most amazing eyes ever. Apparently the keys need to be reprogrammed every 30 days.

Ha. So I get billed every 10 days, need a new internet code every 15 days, and now, every 30 days I'll be locked out. So basically all those things aligned today and the fact that I get to turn in my first reimbursement claim also triggers that 30 days have passed.

Even if the numbers didn't add up to trenta, the fact that I've been called Caterina pretty much by every Italian who sees my name means I'm turning native. I'm just going to have to spell it with a K, since clearly that's the correct way to spell Katherine. (My coworker agrees--we had this talk last week.)

That's all- boring I know. I really can't compete with Kim and Nick's baby boy finally deciding he wanted out today. So exciting! I know he already has a ton of outfits picked out for our Skype sessions down the road. Congrats you two and please don't ignore Zippy (and Moe) too much.

Stay-cation: Day 2

Naturally after all that fabulous food the night before (and lack of gym trip on my part) this morning was a perfect day to set out to Carney Park to hike along the ridge. Carney Park is the military recreational facility located in an extinct volcano, Campiglione. (The one with yurts!)

With the sun shinning and a great breeze, Cynthia and I met with with another Laurie and her pup. They had warned me yesterday that there were steep sections and since I'd seen the big old crater, I had some idea what to expect. Then again, I've hiked Garrapata enough times so when I hear "steep" I kind of panic. I had also been told to expect lots of chances to "take in the view." Translation- we're going to by dying after 10 steps so we'll be stopping. I'm thinking fabulous because it's warm here and my body still doesn't quite know how to react.

Well all I've got to say is THANK YOU! to whoever was the first person who drug me out to Garrapata for that hike I love to hate. There were some a vertical climbs on today's hike that resembled the valley segment but over all it wasn't that bad! My SF Giants hat and I kicked butt and even now, several hours later Stanley is cool with it all. Then again, I guess after all my falls on the way down from Garrapata on that last night hike anything would make Stanley happy?

It was a great time walking through the forest like area. The trees provided a great canopy to protect us from the sun, while berries, grass, and other thorny plants provided excellent obstacles across the path. I'm really hoping that I'm not allergic to any of the plants I tromped through and got scratched by, since I'm really only used to looking for poison oak! We did 1/2 of the loop but already have plans for the other side next time around. I've also scoped out a few flat trails for running so I'm excited that this parks is kindda on my way "home", again, once I find a place out that way to live.

We did have to laugh about how the rustling in the bushes due to those pesky lizards made them sound much larger than they actually were. At one point I saw a whole branch move  and being the bio nerd I am, had to stop to look. Well, that grasshopper looking thing was so large that it's what caused the movement. No, not Kenya bug status for those who saw that one, but it was a good 3 inches? And check out those colors!

What else? Oh! The views! Amazing. I guess the wind blew out a lot of the haze/humidity so we were left with clear skies. So yeah, definitely another stop on our tour of Naples for those of you who hang out for a while. Don't you love all these previews of your trip to visit me? And yes, that is the neon green top I scared the desk clerk with earlier this week.

Stay-cation: Day 1

I guess I've been fortunately enough to always live in a place that others consider a vacation spot. Granted, that was one of the things that drove me nuts in Monterey with the influx of traffic (mainly due to confused drivers), impossible weekend parking, and ridiculous "peak season" prices. Of course as a local you knew how to avoid most of the crazy weekends but still, I can't help but think of one of my favorite Savage Chicken cartoons.

Well this weekend I had a stay-cation in Monte Di Procida. Again, the generosity of the community here is amazing! On Friday I met up with someone copied on emails started back in April. No- I'm not hanging out with strangers, well, strangers to me but the degree of separation is no more than 3. Someone I worked with put me in touch with someone who had recently left Italy. Laurie then started to email me with info and put me in touch with others- including the fabulous Cynthia who I met for lunch on Friday. By the end of the lunch she had offered to show me around MdP, let me crash at her place, and then go hiking this morning out at Carney Park. Um yes please! 

Monte Di Procida is for sure where I'm going to live- but I still need to figure out which place to claim. On my tour we entered the town a new way because it's going to be crucial to know all the routes should traffic be ridiculous. (Think Del Monte Ave. on a gorgeous holiday weekend, with all that construction they were doing, and it only being two lanes...with no traffic lights.) No, I'm not crazy because once you make it through one of the various towns and make your way up the hill this is one of the views awaiting you.

As we drove around the town during risposare, the afternoon break, most of the stores were closed up, but few people still walking around the main piazza. As we drove down towards the water, that's where we found more people. The parking lots were full, scooters lined up along the pier, and many boats were out for the day. For those of you who make it out in the summer months we'll be taking a ferry out to Procida or Ischia for the day. Still not 100% sure what's out there other than beaches, food, and stores but I think it would be fun to see the different view and I've never been one to turn down being on the water. Okay, I'll do more recon prior to your visit! The town is super cute, lots of little shops selling one type of item- produce, bread, meat, etc. No Safeway for one stop shopping may take a little while to get used to, but maybe this way I'll learn to enjoy grocery shopping a little more?

After the tour we went back to her place and I think I fell in love with the idea of having a veranda which unfortunately apt #1 from the last search doesn't have. The view from her apartment was fabulous although it was more over the hill side than of the water, but you still saw plenty of sparking blue. (The night view was amazing too!) We chatted about Italy and other destinations while sipping on bubbly and taking in the view on the perfect late June day.

Once we realized it was turning to dinner hours (American dinner hours, not Italian), we walked a block away to her favorite restaurant. I'd been told about this place and Meriella before even stepping foot out of Monterey and let me tell you, it lived up to everything I'd been told. Both Meriella and her husband, Pepe were so friendly and since we were the only table in the place until 8pm they kept stopping by and talking. The food? Fabulous!

There is no menu at this restaurant because what's she serving is whatever was at the market. Translation? She won't commit to a menu because if it's not fresh it won't be served here. After picking our table, Meriella came over and asked what would we like. She gave us options of "sea food" or "land food." Land food, I found interesting also included veggies. So I'm a seafood, plant land food person. Chickens are also land food since they are found on land...even on rare occasion that they fly.

As you can see, we had quite the antipasti collection: bruschetta (broos-ke-ta), grilled veggies, stuffed cuttlefish, sardines, belt fish, stuffed zucchini blossoms (YUM), octopus, calamari on a stick, shrimp. We did the sea food route and it was fabulous. I think when I ate the calamari the words "it tastes like home" escaped my mouth.  Fish that I normally wouldn't try (sardines) were yummy soaked in vinegar and then drizzled with olive oil then dusted with dried chili pepper. Cuttlefish are surprisingly sweet and just may become part of my diet now that I'm over the fact that they are one of my favorite displays at the aquarium...please don't tell me they are on the watch list!

After all those amazing tastes of fish paired perfectly with basil, tomato, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mint, garlic, mint, pine nuts, or chili pepper we decided we had room for primi piatti, although the idea of skipping to secondi piatti which is typically a protein like sea bass was rather tempting. Again, after Meriella listed our options the fresh seafood sounded amazing so we ordered pasta alle vongole (pasta with claims) and a fabulous fat, chewy noodle that name escapes me today but the translation in English mean "splat" because of the sound it makes when you put it in water to cook it. Maybe it wasn't "splat" but pick one of those onomatopoeias, translate it into Italian and then you'll have the name of the pasta. I believe it's one of the local shapes of this region. At any rate it was fabulous topped with tomato sauce, eggplant, and cheese.

That's where we ended this meal. After Meriella learned I was moving to the area she told me to stop by for un caffe or another meal. I have a feeling this will be a regular place for me, at least when people are in town. She also offers cooking lessons! Yep. I should just ask for a part time job of sous chef on the weekends.

A quick walk around the corner and we were back at Cynthia's place. Granted, if I live in the kitchen apartment my walk would be about 5 minutes more...okay, maybe 10 after all that food and up hill, but that just means I could have had another stuffed baby cuttlefish!

End of this stay-cation's first day. How great is it to live within an hour of amazing locations?

Arco Felice

Yep, that is a Roman aqueduct. Well, a part of one. After being here for almost a month, I still can't get over the fact that while driving I look out the window and see remnants of buildings from civilizations older than the country I just came from. Shoot, most the time they are even older than the oldest buildings I've seen in other parts of Europe.

This one will actually become a part of my daily commute should I end up living in Monte Di Procida as the road passes under it. Yeah, told you all it was an amazing place. On my way up the hill I pass by half of a temple for one of the Roman gods, possibly Diana. It's amazing to me that these buildings are still standing!

Okay, Erin I still owe you way more but I just wanted to let you know that I'm working on this tasking.

Diciassette, Seventeen, XVII

I'm sure you all haven't noticed, but I had 13 blog followers for several weeks. At first I thought eh, 13 no big deal as I'm not very superstitious. Then I got to thinking, hey, I'm in Italy now and 13 is lucky. Well, maybe it's lucky, but it's not unlucky like back at home. 

One of those interesting tidbits gained in Intercultural Relations was the fact that the number 17 is unlucky in Italy. Why? Well after some further research I found the following information:

• When written as a Roman number 17 turns into XVII. With a quick shuffle it turns into VIXI. So what? Well, if you read Latin it translates to "I have lived" which you know, means you're dead. 
• Friday the 17th doesn't have quite the same ring to it but the same applies and since Friday was the day Jesus was crucified, it's really unlucky.
• It gets worst! If the 17th falls on a Friday in November you may as well not get out of bed. Why? November is "the month of the deceased" due to the 2 Nov holiday that pays memorial to the deceased.

So there you have it...why XVII is unlucky here in Italy. File it away for your next trivia night!

A Day Has 24 Hours, So I'll Use 20.

Yesterday was hands down my longest day yet- 20ish hours? It was all planned though, so I knew I'd be leaving work to house hunt, then going to a wine class which put me home rather late. So what did I do? In one of my genius moments I decided to go wake up at 0400 for a run. (Yeah, it is sad when the gym opening at 0500 doesn't work with my schedule.) At any rate, it was quiet- very quiet here at the hotel. I'm pretty sure the desk clerk was in shock when he saw someone walking out of the elevator (mainly because I hope it wasn't the "I just rolled out of bed and threw my neon green top on" look I was sporting).

As I ran around the base I couldn't help but think even more about how this place resembles a prison. I was running and then it would hit a fence so I turned. Don't believe me? There are also cameras, guards, MPs, and perhaps the creepiest yellow lights ever complete the prison setting. The 2 things that made me laugh and keep running were a friendly orange tabby cat who forced me to multi-task while stretching and the speed/radar detector that clocked me at 10mph. Nope- I don't run that fast!

Heading back into the lobby I was thrilled to not see the desk clerk, but on the way up to my floor the elevator stopped to pick up a middle aged shirtless man who felt the need to talk to me. Just when I thought the doors would release me to dash to my room, the doors opened and there was the desk clerk. The poor guy! Very few should see me post workout (those of you who have seen me totally know what I'm talking about). Don't believe me? Just keep reading...

Downed coffee, checked FB, got ready for work and headed back down to catch the shuttle- looking human. How human? Same guy was at the desk and as soon as he saw me, "a new girl" came out of his mouth. Glad to know my transformation is significant.

Work days are once again turning into full 8 hours, but now that I have access to many of the systems it's keeping me busy and the hours are (mostly) passing by. My DTS knowledge is becoming known which I was hoping to keep a secret but you know me- always helping out when I can. It's actually letting me socialize with the other office more so it's win-win. The other system is tricky, but for those of you who know KFS....FMS is better. Well, I think so. Talk to me after my week long training next month!

Okay, let's turn our attention to more exciting things like house hunting! I met the unofficial mayor of Monte Di Procida (monte di proshida when I'm trying to remember how to say it or MdP when I'm lazy)- Enzo! If you think of your stereotypical, middle age, Italian man, you have Enzo. He's definitely connected and had no issue telling me how he is really good friends with the actor shot kills Tony Soprano at the end of the series. He's even offered to have me meet this guy next time he's in town so I can get a picture with him. We also drove by the house they used as the Soprano's house, but since I didn't watch the show it's hard to really know! It's so hard to censor my remarks and sarcasm when I'm caught off guard with conversations like this.

At any rate, he's lived up to all referrals by various people and he showed me three beautiful apartments on our tour. He too lives in this town (in a building his great-grandfather built) and was actually born there. I was learning all about the history of this adorable town. Best part? They have trash pick up 6 days a week (paper, glass, plastic, metal, trash, etc. each have a special day) and they are repaving the roads. Yeah, totally worth the drive and I haven't even mentioned the beach or views!

Okay, on with our tour. As soon as we headed up the hill, we took another hill up an itty bitty alley way. I had no idea if we were on our way to the house or just taking a back road. Turns out we were headed to the end of this alley to see the house with a beautiful kitchen. Here's the mini tour:

 

Pros: Better kitchen than I've ever had in the states, walk in closet, built in closet, fabulous view, landlords live upstairs (bonus- they speak English)

Cons: Small living space (not sure if my couch will work), "3rd room" is really the loft about kitchen/living room (totally do-able for my craft room/office)

Notes: This was originally part of their house so when they did all the upgrades it was for them. Translation, it's a lot nicer than some of the other things I've seen. The guest room is the room with the stairs with storage with the intention of the bed going in that loft area. The hall way is ridiculously large so I may just play bocce ball there. 

Va bene! Let's go see the next place. (Queue Portuguese music that Enzo will start dancing to while driving...)

Pros: Located 3 minutes away from a bus stop, garage parking, huge living room and open kitchen, large patio, mini vineyard outside master bed room, 3 real rooms, vanity in one bathroom

Cons: View obstructed by vegetation, Americans live next door, freaking huge hallway- room for a bowling alley, nothing too exciting architecturally

Notes: Garage parking and gated driveway, cute kitty, landlords on site, location was fabulous, 2 extra rooms were decent, no great view, no common storage, large laundry area

Va bene! One more for today's tour...

Pros: Stunning view, excellent location, it's all new, walk in master closet, large living space, lots of windows in kitchen, patio, beautiful tiles

Cons: Tiny "guest rooms", laundry in hallway, closets for one room also in hallway, very modern looking, stone wall in living room, theme-y overboard bathrooms

Notes: This apartment was in an old wine storage building, a block up from Stappo, all new (if the lack of finished kitchen doesn't indicate that), the view was amazing but that's a whole lot of glass that the sun was shinning through in the middle of the afternoon (west exposure)

So there you have it. You've seen all of my housing options (more or less)- what's your vote? Seriously, I've never picked my own place before and I'm scared I'm rushing into this because of my TDY next month but I really do need to start the paperwork. Okay, maybe I'm just scared of saying yes to one of these and then realize there's something better out there...feedback please!

There are two that I keep thinking about how my furniture would work and how I would make it all work. I definitely am sold on MdP because I've been told by people making the drive for years it's not too bad and totally worth it. I've already met some of the town (driving in Enzo is immediate star status) plus this place Stappo is their local wine place/hangout. Still not sure, but now that I've added them on Facebook and know several of their wine class folks I'm sure it's going to be a stop when guests are in town. 

Oh, I've also been educated on Enzo's favorite Italian jazz singer and unfortunately I can't recall it at all...I'm sure if I work with Enzo to secure a house I'll be listening to more of his jazz collection and Enzo's singing. Benissimo!

Let's Talk...Caffè

At this point, I've consumed a lot of Italian coffee. With every cup I am reminded of what Erin told me when she learned I was moving out here. Although I can't remember word for word it went something like this (Erin if you recall I'm more than happy to revise it to more accurately reflect the actual events):

Me: I've got a lot of things going on right now, but I also have a ton of Kenyan coffee to fuel me through it. 

Erin: I'm concerned for you.

Me: Why?!?! 

Erin: You are going to be an addict.

Me: I think I already am.

In all honesty my consumption of coffee has decreased, well that was until I purchased a Bialetti espresso maker. I am purposely not investing in a machine for the office (well, that's the plan) and since I'm not a fan of coffee mess coffee I'm doing okay. Plus, that's American coffee and if I'm going to drink coffee in Italy, it's gong to be an espresso or cappuccino. 

You hear that Pete's & Starbucks fans? You don't have to say size, drink, special requests because you don't have them! Don't let the lack of options make you think that it's not a good thing. I've found it quite the opposite. As a former venti skinny vanilla latte or nonfat peppermint mocha girl here's what I know so far (but no worries- I'll be doing more research):

Un caffè will produce an espresso in an itty bitty mug in front of you. It has a strong taste with a rich bronze froth known as a crema on top. You most definitely will want to put the packet of sugar in it (or ask me for a Splenda packet that I may/may not have in my purse).

Un cappuccino is just what it sounds like- an espresso mixed with steamed and foamed milk. Yep, that will be whole milk but when a it's in an 8oz cup you can deal with the calories. Also, I've found that the milk makes the sugar or other sweetener unnecessary. One important note (for while you're in Italia) don't order one of these after 11am. Why not? It's considered a breakfast thing. Of course I'm sure they expect us Americans to do something stupid like that.

Un macchiato is the only other version I've tried out here. It's basically an espresso with a dollop of steamed milk on top. Again...use that sugar packet!

Well there you have it- just a few ways to prepare the amazing beans out this way. I'm still in the process of finding the beans/blend I like the best but I'll let you all know as soon as I do!

Let's Talk....Pizza!

Why pizza? Well, this morning around a quarter to one, I found myself nibbling on some pizza. The game was over and by staying up so late my body realized it had missed out on dinner due to an amazing lunch. So that paired with a 10 year old's retelling of what he learned in school about pizza and tomatoes while dinning on pizza yesterday, I'm passing it your way for the next time you need some trivia knowledge.

Pizza was originally thought of as a "poor man's meal" since the entire meal was in the one time. It's been suggested that pizza was created when the Romans were making edible plates and rather than eating it last, they began to eat it all at once.

Did you know that Italians used to think tomatoes were poisonous? Clearly somewhere along the line some brave soul gave them a try. History credits this"taste test" to starving peasants sometime in the 1530's,  and just like that tomatoes go from a poisonous decorative plant to pizza toppings and a main ingredient in Italian cooking.

Now I can't recall if I shared the story of pizza Margherita when I've been sampling the various versions but long story short- it's named after Italy's Queen Margherita who in 1889 visited the Pizzeria Brandi in Naples. The pizza maker that day, Rafaele Esposito created a pizza for the Queen that contained the three colors of the new Italian flag. The red of tomato, white of the mozzarella and fresh green basil was a hit with the Queen and the rest of the world.

Papa Murphy's, Round Table, Little Caesar's, Pizza Hut, or even Fattie's pizza don't even begin to compare the pizza I've been chomping down over here. There are a few key differences:

• Crusts are about 1/8 the thickness out here
• Toppings are just that- a light dusting of cheese, veggies, meat, herbs
• Everything tastes fresh (as in you don't taste the preservatives because they aren't there!)
• Since a pizza here is about 1/4 of the ingredients typically found on 1 US pizza, you can eat an entire one and not feel like a piggy! (As a pizza lover this is perhaps the best part!)

Semi-Filtered Thoughts on Naples

The one bad thing about me living in the future is I often have these random thoughts and really can't text them to anyone since you're all asleep! I've been keeping a list of some of the random thoughts I've had and decided it's time to share. Don't judge me. These are things that pop into my brain during the commute to/from work, while on housing tours, watching tv, or just observing my environment. Granted, some are my theories but you know what...come visit and I bet you will have some of the same thoughts!

• Everyone is skinny here because they sip (or down) an espresso on an hourly basis. When they aren't consuming the glorious shot of caffeine and sugar there is a cigarette pressed between their lips. My lungs aren't quite used to all this second hand smoke and I still don't endorse smoking, but I may need to re-evaluate my coffee consumption and step it up to the levels of the locals!
• Driving. Still not sure if I'm willing to attack this one. Why? Well today on the way to lunch we couldn't figure out why the lady was still driving on the shoulder after the massive pot hole on the on ramp. Then we see her waving a cell phone with her right hand. As we pass we notice there is another one in her left hand and up to her ear. Somehow she was still talking with both of her hands too. Alida suggested that this is how they 3-way call out here. (I think it's one reason why their driving is so sporadic!) 
• In Italy people watching is hilarious. Well, entertaining but also a lot different than in the states. The fashion alone is hilarious. Um maybe that's the wrong word. Maybe I'm supposed to be in awe of some of the statements made? Yeah I don't know. All I know is I need to step up my high heel...literally, about 2 inches!
• Another very different thing to learn is to how to deal with the eyes that seem to follow you as you walk by. I may have told a few of you about my first experience walking into the gym here on base. As I walked in I swear every guy had their eyes on me. And yes, you know I try to avoid all eye contact when at the gym so this was insane. Well, I thought it was insane...until I realized that the game of racquetball had all but stopped as the 4 younger Italians were looking at me. Now that was insane. I don't tell you this story to remind you single guys you missed your chance while I was in Monterey (HA! I can't even keep a straight face and I'm the one typing) but rather to provide examples of just how things are different. We've even noticed this phenomenon at the mall by men with their families who just feel the need to watch us. I'm just as guilty as the next person of glancing over to see someone but I'm pretty sure that 80% of the time it goes undetected...

Okay, well I think that's more than enough of my fabulous observations at this time.  One thing is for certain, as my adventures will continue so will my observations. I really don't list them to categorize them in good/bad/indifferent but rather it's just part of my new life out here. I'm sure by the end of my stay I too will have some of these characteristics that seem so different and even odd at times. Please, please, please make sure I assimilate properly back into the American culture-okay? Thanks!

Let's Get Some Shoes

Late last night my coworker asked if I'd want to go to Mercatino Poggioreale, better known as Shoe Alley. Um yest please! Most of you know that I just can't say "no" when it comes to shoes or coffee.

We headed out early this morning to downtown Naples to see what I could find because the 3 pairs of shoes I've been wearing since my pack out are becoming torture! My black flats will be trashed as soon as I see that my shoes have arrived safe and sound.

So we got there and I really had no idea what to expect. What I found were stalls lined up, row after row. with shoes, clothes, purses, and jewelry. We wasted no time making our way up and down the rows, taking visits into just about every shoe vendor's stall. As we looked at the shoes my coworker explained to me that a lot of shoes are one of a kind so it's really tough to often find a pair you like in your size. These unique pairs must fall off a truck somewhere so I'm very tempted to just put in my request for size 39/40 shoes and see what they can do in the weeks to come.

I of course found an adorable pair of tan leather sandals within 10 minutes of being there but my foot didn't fit. Yes, I did try them on again during our second walk though but alas, they weren't meant to be so I continued my search.

Let me tell you there were red shoes. There were blue shoes.  And pink shoes. Green shoes. Lacy shoes. Glittery shoes. Shiny shoes. Beaded shoes. Flat shoes. Tall shoes. Really really tall shoes. Ugly shoes. Strappy shoes. Tasseled shoes. Running shoes. Plastic shoes. Baby shoes. Basically every type of shoe under the sun and yet I still couldn't find a pair of flats to wear in/out of the office to save my babies shoes from the wear and tear of the cobble stones- go figure right?

I think our favorite pair we saw were the one seen in the middle of the shoe collage. Yep. The heel is inside the shoe. Well is it still a heel when it's a cushion? At any rate if any one is interested they are available in more colors than the red and for a mere 10 euros they can be yours!

After searching and being tempted by those adorable leather sandals a 3rd time I'm sure you still have one more question-what did I end up with? Um just what I was trying to avoid...heels! I guess I just can't escape my true love. I even told my coworker to keep me away from from the stalls that didn't have promising looking flats. Epic fail. Here are the 2 pairs I ended up with for 15euros total! Yeah, that's a smidge over 20 bucks! The black peep toes were only 5 euro.

Have I convinced you shoe lovers to visit yet? The only issue is the limited sizes for most of the shoes. Again, had there been my size in a few other pairs I would have walked away with more (way more) than my two pairs. At any rate, there are other markets to be visited with different styles and yes, we're already making plans for next weekend!

Today's Tour: Cats, Graduation, & Random Ramblings

Meet my buddy I made this evening waiting for my ride to the Hail and Farewell for my command. This little guy was sleeping (all curled up) on his chair and when I sat across the table I got a fabulous "meow" which was clearly cat for ciao. Well, maybe it was more of I know you have turkey in your fridge, why didn't you bring some down for me? 

At any rate, I scratched his head for a little bit and just started thinking. I guess I was doing more thinking and less scratching because he then jumped on the table to move closer to me. Oops. (Side note- the coffee bar we were in front of is currently closed so no one is really using these tables...) Now where was I going with this story???

Yeah, it's gone.

While I try to refocus, let me do one more shout out to all my fabulous NPS friends who walked across that stage today to collect a folder with some random paper in it. Great job for no tripping and yes, you really will get your real diploma in 2ish months- unless they send it and it gets lost in the mail. It's been known to happen- right Mike?

Oh! Just like that I'm back on track. I was a little disappointed today knowing that graduation was happening on the other side of the world and I wasn't going to be there. On the flip side though it was another productive day in the office and although I was referring to the Hail and Farewell as "my hell" I had a lot of fun.

I realize that to those of you who move all the time (like you military folks) you are totally aware of this concept I'm about to try to describe...but for us "stuck in the same place for lots of years (5+)" types it's a little hard to wrap words around it.

While I'm however many miles away, wishing I was having fun in Monterey, I'm really here setting up my new life. Through nights getting to socialize with my office, the life I left slowly begins to be recreated. Sure the names and faces are different but so often when I'm introduced to people I link them back to someone in my past.

Tonight's link was between the lawyer and Hy. Yep. Didn't see that one coming. But just like Hy was so friendly when I started at NPS all those years ago, Ken has been the exact same way. He's been the one to provide me numbers for realtors, given me helpful info, and always takes the time to check in. He hasn't proved to have the same sense of humor but I'm still on the fence if that's a good/bad/indifferent thing. Wait. It's a good thing- I don't have a fake arm attacking me.

This week really has been fabulous and with every day I fall more in love with this place and rejoice in my decision to move, but I can't help but think I may still be in the honeymoon phase. Maybe not, I don't seem to ever follow the "normal" route but just in case my dad is on standby the moment homesickness hits. (Sorry dad, still not there yet...but that doesn't mean you and mom can't visit!) 

No doubt about it, life is still going on in Monterey without me. I get that. And let's be honest, it would be creepy if it wasn't! I do however like to think that those days when things just seem a little off,  it's due to a serious deficiency your Katie O. dose. Hey, I know it doesn't work like that but I'll just pretend. 

Okay, I feel like I just took you on a very roundabout tour with this post. I must be adopting that part of the Italian culture! Next time I'll try to have a better road map for my thoughts, but here in Italy most roads aren't even located on a map and when they are you can't find the name.

Here, There, Everywhere...Everywhere but Seeing Houses

It's a requirement (or so I've been told) that you have at least 2 appointments with the housing office. Today was appointment #2 and I can say the next time I return it will be to start processing my contract. I think they mean well, but the office operates is true Italian Fashion. 

My appointment was at 0830, I showed up at 0825. After checking in I sat in the waiting area for close to 30 minutes while I saw the guy I thought I had an appointment walk back and forth. I'd like to give him the benefit of the doubt and say he was making calls to see places or something but...

Finally I'm called back and I meet Ciro. I tell him what I'm looking for (yay for repeating nonstop so I can really decide what I want) I notice that the list I prepared of places to see has a bunch of "rented" notes next to them. Yep- they need to update their system. So I tell him that I saw the one place in MdP yesterday but would like to see some other options. He makes a phone call and off we go...it's a good 40 minute drive.

As we're about 10 minutes out from our destination, winding up the road and hit standstill traffic. After waiting a few minutes thinking it was road construction, cars kept turning around. You know you're in Italy when traffic is stopped in one direction and as cars are turning around they stop traffic in the opposite direction as well because they are telling what they know about the hold up. Turns out the road was shut down because of an accident. Luckily there was a "back road" way and we got there- eventually.

When we got there the person we were supposed to meet was also stuck in the traffic/running behind. We stopped at a coffee shop while we waited. Eventually he got a hold of the person, who was already headed up the hill...so we made our way up. We finally met him and followed up to a place that looked very familiar. Turns out it was the one place that saw out there yesterday. A realtor met us out there had two Germans with him (one already lived in the area and the second was looking for a place). We were there for a while, mind you this was well past 11 at this point.

We finally headed down the hill or maybe it was the other side? At any rate not quite the ocean view but up a one way alley (and I mean alley) we were in a 4 story place with 3 apartments and rooftop terrace. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, large living space. The kitchen was in the middle of a remodel but I'm pretty sure the few view pics speak for themselves.

It really was a beautiful home and probably the closest yet. It turns out the relator I met was the other person who multiple folks recommended- Enzo! He has one apartment in the area that he things will be a good fit and it turns out that in the near future he will have another 3 bedroom available in the same complex that a coworker lives in. (Only Americans live there though...so I'm not sure.) 

Finally we headed back. I got back to work at 1230. 4 hours, about the same amount of time I was out yesterday and I only saw one new place. It feels like I'm getting a tad closer, but it's still a slow process. 

Today's summary:

• I'm beginning to recognize roads and have a general idea of some of the layouts now.
• Above item was confirmed when I realized my housing guy wasn't going the correct way and we made several loops at different parts of the day. 
• I finally met Enzo and he's the guy to know when trying to live where I'm trying to live. 
• I hate filling out access requests for work. Luckily my coworker did a ton of them for me but I still have all the training to do.

Looking for Home Sweet Home

Finding a place to live is a big deal. In the past, my parents have made that call or I've had a roommate (or several) to help make the decision. Also in the past I've been fairly familiar with the area and spoken the same language. Think about what happens if any of these factors are eliminated- crazy right? Well, they've all been eliminated from my current search!

The only thing I've got going for me is a housing allowance which is much higher than I was ever willing to spend in the past! Come to think of it I don't even know what the prices of the places I saw today, but basically the locals know our rates and somehow that's what rent turns out to be. (Yeah, the system is broken so I'm doing my best to keep my pay rate a secret!)

Today I ventured around the area with Daniel and Antonio- two realtors that were recommended by coworkers. Somehow after a 5 minute call with Daniel yesterday to set up the appointment he pretty much nailed just what I was looking for- ocean view, 2-3 bedrooms, located around markets and transportation. I spent all afternoon with these two and saw several options. They were both extremely honest about areas and even gave me information about other things that I'm dealing with in regards to being new.

Our first stop was in Posillipo. I was told that the view I'd see was "the view that all Americans think about when they think Italy." He was right. As I looked out the 1st floor windows (2 floors up, the ground level is 0) I looked out to the bay. The sparkling blue was speckled with boats and other apartments and off to the left Mt. Vesuvius  stood tall. The apartment was one of the sides of the square with a pizzeria, caffe bar, market, and gelato was found across the way. There were two apartments available, both 2 bedroom.

The first one was the corner apartment, with balconies in each room, one looking out to the water and the other 3 towards the plazza, but you could still see water on a few. The layout of the place was odd though. Lots of storage, but again with only 2 bedrooms that means when you visit you'd be sleeping in my office and I already have grand plans for my spare room!

The second one had 4 huge windows facing the water. Three rooms (dinning room, living room, and 2nd bedroom) were all conntected but doors could be closed off and kept closed with strategically placed furniture. The kitchen was itty bitty and the one bathroom was at an angle.

After viewing both places we headed down to the plaza for coffee. It was pretty sweet to know I could just run downstairs for un caffee or better yet pizza. (Not good for the waist line but can you really go on a diet when you're living in Italy?)

I think we then headed to Bagnoli. Again, I really need to take better notes. This was a brand new apartment and gorgeous, if I didn't have all my furniture headed out here. The kitchen was more than just a closet and the view was once again fabulous. Best part? Along the water there is a paved path so I could run without the fear of being mowed down by scooters or cars. Again, only 2 bedroom and really too small- although I fell in love with the tile.

Next stop was over in Pozzuoli, but in the outskirts. Yep. I have been here before. They actually wanted to show me the diagonal house (and I met someone who lives on the same property this evening) but since I'd already been there we skipped out. They did show me a property that will be done within a few months with 20 apartments. The historic building has been restored on the outside (to include 15th and 17th century art on the ceilings of the courtyard) but all the apartments are so technologically advanced I don't think I'd even know how to use half of the stuff! Again, not quite the place for me but I did like the view. I think I need just a tad of city mixed in with my ocean view!

 

Next up was another part of Pozzuoli- Arco Felic. This was a 3 story townhouse with a rent that is too much for me to stomach so it's not going to happen but it was an open floor plan. There was a garage, finished "basement", 3 bed rooms, a decent kitchen, and a back yard. There were also balconies on the 1st and 2nd floors. Check out that blue tile in the one bathroom! Something just screams Katie- right? Okay, so maybe it was the fact that there were at least 3 cats within the gate (one on the front porch) that made me like this one so much. It was walking distance to the nearby lake, train station, and stores (so I can turn my guests free when I need to work and also so I don't have to worry about driving on the weekends). 

After a driving tour through the areas that both of my guides lived, we finally found our way into Monte di Procida and we didn't even go through the "Bumpy Tunnel." -> Side story: At one point in the day I was being told how many Americans have their own names for places. I think it probably came up when I slaughtered how to say Procida  and confessed I'd been calling it MdP. You know, it's what we do- well I blame the acronyms that we use with the government, but seriously- "The Tang" is much easier than Tangensiale. "Capo" way easier than Capodichino. But apparently it's been taken too far and there is now "touch down Jesus." Yeah. How hilarious is that?

So as we made it up the hill the feel of the neighborhood definitely changed. Things seemed to slow down and things looked a tad older. At one point this area had the higher per capita income since many of the people went to the states to open restaurants and others were in the shipping business. The town was very charming- complete with town square. There were narrow roads as I'd been warned but I saw a RAV4 or two driving around so it's possible...assuming another car isnt' headed the opposite direction on the same "street." 

The apartment I saw was one of 3 and the landlords lived on the 2nd floor. Again it was a huge/open floor space and I really liked it. Of all the places I saw today this for sure was my favorite but again, the layout just didn't seem ideal to accomodate what I have being sent over and it was 2 bedrooms. For all you guests I'm pretty sure if I call this place home the guest room would be the one with the view...since it's not much of a view at night when I'm sleeping! The kitchen/living space was large and again, I loved the tile. 

I think the other reason I loved this place so much was the huge patio (in addition to the 2 balconies) that I could use as a rooftop garden and extended living space, especially on these warm summer nights. Another perk? The landlord could teach me Italian! The fact that Daniel told me that it's a tight knit community up there also was nice. They'll apparently keep an eye on me until they know I'm living there and not just a tourist but then I'll be one of them. That really is one of my requirements while I'm out here. 

Conclusions of the day:

• House hunting is exhausting!
• I think I have an idea of what I want...but then I see something else. I realize it's going to be a bunch of tradeoffs (less space = better view) but until I know the utility of each requirement it's hard to make that call. Yes, I just may make a model out of this!
• I'm trusting that people are telling me the truth that "when I see it, I'll know it's for me." 
• I may be putting too much into this house hunt. I used to laugh that when I finally lived by myself I'd consider myself an adult. Well, here I am 28 and it's finally going to happen. Gotta make sure I get this right!
• Living in Monterey (and even SLO) makes me want to be by the water...even if I did get a good laugh with my response of "I'm too white to be in the sun too long" when asked if I liked to sunbathe at the beach. 

Well there you have it. I spent over 4 hours making this tour and it actually paid off so I'm not that sad I missed Zumba. Tomorrow I go out with the housing office again, but a different agent so maybe I'll see more than 2 places. Hopefully there won't be any repeats of today and I can see a few more options within these areas. Hey- I'm doing this for all of you! :) Actually I figure if it's a place I'd want to stay it's probably perfetto for my guests.

"Taking a Break" Tuesday

Not much to report today except I'm loving all the letters that are being delivered daily to my desk...I'm getting spoiled!

***

Round II of house hunting kicks off tomorrow- be ready for summaries & your opinion (somewhat) counts.

***

Off to to the gym I go. When I return it's time to enjoy a glass of Rosso di Montalcino which I learned all about, but now can't recall anything the lady told me. Oh well. It's all about how it tastes!

Somewhere Between a Manic & Mundane Monday

I don't want to sound too confident because I feel like that's when things fall apart but...my new life is quickly coming together! No, I haven't found a place to live, my things aren't here, I still don't have my Italian driver's license, but those are all just a few things on my To-Do List.

I do have my new CAC,  rations card (yeah, they ration certain things), and access to my work computer/email! Of course none of these things came easily, but I figured things out...eventually...and they are now crossed off my list.

ID Card: I think this is last picture I will need to take for a while. I think that's a good thing. Since all of the pictures are on documents that get seen regularly I won't be able to escape them so I may as well share. Please note the gradual transition from left to right of me looking a tad more human? Oh and why we're at it...the far right my ID pic was described as "cute" by the girl who took it. She never showed it to me prior to printing the card AND knew my only requirement was to look better than my previous one. Oh the people we put in charge of important things...

Rations Card: They limit hard liquor, tobacco, and coffee! Which one am I saddest about? Coffee. (Coffee>>Vodka any day of the week.) Luckily I can still get plenty out in town :)

The Login Adventure: Everything runs off our IDs here so until the new one was issued I couldn't do anything. Once I spent some time talking with the Help Desk things were set up. Any guesses on how many emails I had? Keep in mind this email account was set up while I was still in Monterey in hopes I'd have access upon arrival. (I've been here 2 weeks). Quarantsette...make that 48 since my coworker sent one as soon as Outlook was opened. I've been copied on so many emails it was crazy- especially since I only knew what 1 of the 3 forms that kept showing up.

Best part? After lunch someone came in to talk about what he had sent. I had to tell him that I saw it, but since it was my first day actually having access I knew nothing about the procedures. Yep. I hate not being able to help but that's all going to start changing tomorrow. Luckily my follow up answer of "the expert will be back tomorrow" assured him that it would be taken care of then. Phew.

Such goes the life of a newbie in the office. I haven't been the newbie in so long I forget how slow the start up process can be. Luckily a lot of my knowledge from the old jobs will be of huge help getting up to speed...once my training really starts. 

Shortly after that chat, my 5th training module (for DTS) decided to break my computer. Well, I thought it was the website but turns out a server was down. I of course learned this when calling the Help Desk in regards to why my phone couldn't call the local DSN number for the housing office and they had a recording regarding the server...

My solution? I called it a day. Hey, it was just a few minutes early and it allowed me to catch the shuttle back and the director fully supported my decision.

The real highlight of the day was meeting more people. Today's friend was recommended by the fabulous OG after the two of them had met in Hawaii a while back. He just returned from weeks out of Italy and while he caught up with his friends- so there were lots of introductions. I've got to say...I'm so impressed with how willing everyone is to help with any questions or issues I'm having. I don't think I've ever experienced something quite like this. Then again, at one point or another they all went through this process as well and know what it's like. So Joe- I'll be an expert by the time you and the family decide to call this place home! 

So there you have it- it wasn't a manic Monday but it sure wasn't mundane!

Chiesa in Italia

So maybe it wasn't what most of you would think of when you think church in Italy but I assure you, I attended a church service this morning and last time I checked- I'm in Italy.

What in the world is she talking about?

I headed to the base chapel for their "Contemporary Christian Service." Like so many times before it's not until I'm sitting in a pew does the culture shock hit.  

Katie, what culture shock- you were in an English speaking service surrounded by Americans. 

I can't argue with that but they were Americans from all different types of churches from all over the United States. The songs ranged from originals, revival songs like I'll Fly Away, camp classics like Nails, It Is Well stood in as a hymn and then the more traditional worship songs like I Exalt Thee. Even the way the songs were sung were different. Again, different isn't bad---it's just different and will take some time to get used to.

For those of you who have done any type of shopping you know that you typically have a list of key requirements before you settle on your decision. Looking for church is no different.

At any rate, my official church shopping has begun! People were extremely friendly and helpful. I'm already signed up for a Bible study group that starts this week. Since this option is a 2 minute walk (less if the elevator doesn't take forever) from my room I'll keep checking this service out until I have transportation to check one out in town or at the other base.

Yep, that's all I have for this fabulously sunny Sunday. Hey, Sunday is a day of rest so that's what I did- in addition to lots of eating. First "real" week of work starts tomorrow and I'm excited to not only put in a full day for the first time in over a month but also to start seeing 80 hours on my paycheck again.

Only one last thing. I'm having a blast with all these Skype sessions so don't miss out! Make sure you add me katdegr8 next time you log on. Weekends are my best time to deal with the time difference but since some of you are on break maybe you can wake up quasi early (0900) to chat?

Alright, gotta get things together before my family appears on my computer screen! Miss you all but this place is fabulous- come visit me because I don't know when I'll be back that way again.

Es un tostapane!

A what? 

See the video clip.

No one guessed correctly but I really did get a kick out of all the guesses. 

Haven't found anything worthy of being item #2 but I'll keep my eyes pealed.

Due settimane e tutto va bene!

For those too lazy to check if you translated that correctly- two weeks and all is well!

As I sit here in my room with an Italian movie on the tv (yeah, I have no idea what's going on), my red wine, bakery bread, and olives I can't help but smile about all the adventures I've already had in these 14 days. Yes, there were some tough days and I'm sure there will be more, but at the end of my time here my goal is to have the good days outweigh the bad. Simple right? This typically happy girl sure hopes so!

Today somewhat resembled what my weekends used to look like back in Monterey: gym, laziness, shopping, food, movie/tv. Although the activities were the same, the new location threw its own twist on things.

I kicked off the morning with a 30 minute "crash course" of Fitzumba. Um yeah. Me. The gym here did 30 minute sessions of all their classes and that was the one I was able to make. The following summary was sent to a friend as soon as the class was over:

Just got back from the 30 minute FITZUMBA class. Things I learned:

1. Although I am flexible when it comes to stretching this does not translate into being able to salsa, rumba, merengue.
2. The fact that I just had to look up how to spell merengue makes me think I'm less than 1/2 latina
3. My hips don't move
4. I'm much better at the "athletic type" moves
5. So glad it was a class of women
6. This gym needs to invest in a solid wall rather than glass if they ever want me to try this again
7. Not only can I not dance, but neither could 85% of the rest of the class (and they're regulars!)
8. Glad I can use Stanley (my knee) as an out
9. There were times I felt like I was in a strip club training class (or what I think would equate to one)
10. If my hips don't move, sure as the sun rises in the east I'm not going to be able to shake my chest or butt

Over all it was fun, but it may not be the first class I try to squeeze into my schedule- I think I'm more a kick boxing or step girl. It was a great way to laugh at myself and once again realize I am who I am- for better or worse.

After lots of internet searches I found a blog set up by someone who lived here in 2008 with some great trip info and other Naples sights, so I did lots of reading before my next adventure started.

And the adventure sure did begin- 

I finally got to meet Alida, a NPS employee who shares a fabulous friend with me- GWB who I'm pretty sure she calls Michele! Alida rescued me from another day spent on base and we went shopping. Where? The outlets and both malls. We started at the outlets but due to a ton of rain we only checked out a few places then moved to the inside malls. We looked at countless stores and tried to begin to figure out where we will do our shopping for the next few years.

As the search for clothes continued we both began to notice some trends in Italian fashion. I feel it is my duty to give you all the heads up because these trends will be heading to a city near you before to long.

• Sequins: We saw sequin shorts, skirts, dresses, tops, shoes in all different colors. 
• Our verdict? It's good to have the bling on your clothing since we've been told to leave the jewelry at home when going out.
• Animal screen print shirts: Not just any animals of course- cats (all kinds) and butterflies are what's hot. 
• Our verdict? The more subtle prints with accurate translations are the way to go.
• Pink (hot pink) ponchos: Hooded ponchos for the rain?!?
• Our verdict? Although practical for weather like today...stick with an umbrella! 

It really was great chatting with someone about familiar topics (Monterey, NPS, PCS experience) while we looked and laughed at our fashion options.  We also shared a fabulous kebab meal in the food court which was a great break from the Italian meals we've been eating. After more store visits- including what we decided had to be the Italian DSW equivalent we finally called it a day.

A few things are certain at this point. When I return back to the states I will have more crates than I came with. I think I'll be able to fill one with newly acquired shoes (well, in the future- I still am waiting for Shoe Alley before I buy any!) and I will be sending wine back. Lots of wine. Hey, when in Italy- right? But again, since I'm in Italy I'm thankful that a lot of US vendors will ship out here since I'm not ready to wear green sequin shorts with a screen print t-shirt that reads "Play Hard. When the going gets tough, the toughs get going" even if it means I also get to wear a killer pair of heals!

Day 13: I Found Love!

Today was the final day of orientation- Intercultural Relations Day II when we took to the streets of Napoli to see just what's out there. So what's out there?

My new home and I think I'm in love!

Downtown Napoli proved to be home to so many alleys, markets, and breath taking sights. The view my eyes were taking in finally matched the images I had in my head when I accepted this job. (Nothing like having to wait two weeks...)

After a super early departure, we traveled to the base we where it's recommended that we leave our cars prior to catching the Metro. The Metro "right there" turned out to be around the corner and under the bridge. Not exactly the cleanest area or somewhere I plan to be walking at night but at 0800 it was just fine (assuming we stayed on the side walk)!

A few stops later and a funicular ride up the hill, I found myself in the streets of Vomero. No, we didn't walk all the way to the top of the hill to the castello and monastery but we did find an open air market! As soon as we learned there was a mercato we headed straight in that direction. Well, maybe not straight but we found it and thankfully one of the streets was named Via Luca Giordano so I just thought "Frank's last name- I got this" and we made it out and back with no problem. (Yay for my internal compass working in this city while on foot...driving is a whole other story.) 

The produce and fish were absolutely amazing. The colors, scents, and sounds that filled the street we a million times better than Monterey's Farmers Market even on the most picture perfect day. I fought back the urge to buy two heads of lettuce (for only 1 euro) because I knew in the remaining 5 hours we would be exploring it would wilt. Not willing to walk away without something green, I settled for some fresh olives. The nice man looked at us three American women like "what in the world are they doing here?" as we tried to figure out what the difference between the 2 containers of green olives. We all ended up with the same kind and they were fabulous! 

The other find in this town was an amazing bakery. We knew it was going to be good when we smelled the pane e pasticcinis from a few storefronts away and the place was packed like sardines. Kate, for you and you alone I had them venture in there to try something. We left with rolls, mini graffas, and that oh so tasty, crispy, flaky, sweet pastry shaped in a heart. As we wandered back up the hill we took in all the stores there- Sephora being one (so happy they will ship here). With the few minutes we had left we had to stop into the bar (coffee bar) for due caffès, since the 3rd member of our group apparently doesn't like coffee? Ha. I give her 3 months.

 

Back on the funicular we headed back down the hill to Via Toledo which leads to Galleria Umberto, Castel Nuovo, Palazzo Reale, San Francesco di Paola, Piazza Plebiscito the sparkling blue ocean, and about a million little streets filled with bakeries, coffee shops, butchers, pizzerias, shoes, produce stands, scooters, and people. I had to keep reminding myself this was a recon trip, strictly to start getting the lay of the land because the time allotted wasn't nearly enough time to see everything. I managed to make a huge loop through and around the Galleria, castel, water front, and into Chiaia.

While exploring these streets so many strange and wonderful things crossed into my field of vision: couples wearing matching pink shirts, middle aged men walking 8 dogs at a time, kids riding in the lap of their mother while she navigated a scooter through the street. As the cruise ship port the number of languages I heard was also impressive, yet I still seemed to always hear the English first. The quote of the day? "Guido, Guido." As we were exploring off the beaten path a father started calling for his son. It was one of those are you kidding me? moments and we both waited a good 5 seconds before giggling at what we had just heard.

I think it was on the same side street that I found a cute little pasticceria/gelateria called Katia, so once again doing as Kate challenged me to do- we went in. This is where that swirly bar pastry came from. I'm still not sure what I ate but it was good. I think it was brown sugar and maybe almond? Again, it was sugary and yummy so you don't think about it too much. Probably not the best thing to eat within an hour of lunch but you know what? I'm still in TLA so my "no carb left behind" motto can last for a little longer, plus we had a ton more walking to do.

As we headed down into Chiaia, something else caught my eye. No, not a guy, cat, or shoe store- although there were plenty of all of those today- but a garbage truck. Yes. A garbage truck! I know some of you may not believe me so I snapped a picture. Check it out in that next collage. I actually guess that's another thing I can mention about today. In the two sections of town we were in, trash really wasn't an issue. Again, it was really refreshing to see something different than what I'd seen driving around potential neighborhoods...although I don't think I'm up for city living!

Shortly after noon the group met up again as we trekked back up Via Toledo to get to a pizzeria for lunch. We must have passed 20 on our way up no more than 10 blocks. Why did we eat at the one we did? I'm almost wondering if our tour guide knew the family that owned Ristorante e Pizzeria da Attilio. At any rate, the place was full of charm and their brick oven was fired up and ready to cook our Margherita pizzas. While we waited for them, we studied the framed napkins with customers' drawings on the walls in the room we were dinning in. Pizza was (of course) fabulous. 

Hey, I just realized I still have my pizza Friday tradition continuing. I actually don't think it will be that big of a challenge as I'm still searching for Italian food that I can't live without. I'm talking real food here- espresso, gelato, and all these pastries don't count.  I think that if I were to try Margherita pizzas from a different place every day, I still couldn't try all the local spots in three years. Do you think they'd let me sign on those extra years just to finish that goal? 

Well, more or less that's how orientation week ended and it was a great last day. I got to see more of where I plan to be spending my free time and doing my 5pm-5am life. It also gave me an idea of what there is to show all my guests once you all start to arrive. I'll make sure to take the time to learn about this wonderful new place so when you visit you too will fall in love. 

Polizia, Immigrations, & Finger Prints

"Riccioluto" was the first word out of his mouth as he spun his hand by his head.

Is he calling me crazy? What did I do to make him think that? 

"Is that your husband?" were the next words as he pointed to my director who I'm pretty sure has a daughter about my age. When I smiled and said "no" (rather quickly) he was reassured and began to ink my hands for printing.

And this my friends is my first (and I hope only) encounter with the Italian police.

No, I didn't do anything. It's part of our paperwork process, our green card equivalent if you will. (US Immigrations green card, not NPS green card!) The plain clothes officer was telling me that my hair was really curly and then swore I was Greek. Hey, if I can fool police officers I think I can pretty much pull off any nationality I want. I love the fact that when they see my last name on paper they always look a second time, even when they have copies of my passport, ID, and another set of pictures. (I guess another thing that won't change until my last name does?)

Today was our last day of Area Orientation and it was boring. We started on the base that I work on. After having all our forms processed in one place, we headed over to get our prints done. A re-occurring theme of this week is "hurry up and wait." By this point of the orientation we were teasing that it's our forced exposure to the Italian culture and that schedules are flexible. I actually used some of these waiting times to go deal with other HR paperwork. I am officially in the system and able to get my new ID card but decided to wait until Monday. Why? I don't think I can deal with another bad ID picture that even more people will see than my old one for the next 3+ years. (Those of you who saw my last one totally know what I'm talking about- right? I want to look like the picture on my ID.) Yep, I caught some flack from my director and the other guy that was privy to this conversation but I'm standing by my decision.

The rest of the day was eh. Got out to the 3rd base where NATO (Never At The Office) is located did a quick walk around but not much out there. Also headed up to Carney Park which is beautiful. The entire park: rec fields, pool, play grounds, golf course, cabins, trails are all within an extinct volcano. It's very green up that way and I'm sure before too long I'll be spending time up there...if only for the fitness yurt! Yes. I did say yurt. 

Tomorrow is the final day of orientation, but it's Intercultural Relations Pt II. We're going to spend the day in Naples and I'm really looking forward to it. I'm not so thrilled that it's supposed to be 80 degrees and we're going to be walking around everywhere but it's all part of living in Naples so it's time to get adjusted! 

Intercultural Relations

After yesterday's NCIS, security, driving briefs in addition to endless emergency phone numbers and those stupid lizards, I felt the little confidence I'd been building vanish. Seriously it was one of those "now you see it, now you don't" and at one point I remember thinking I could be home for graduation. Well, I'm still here (I have not been in Monterey despite the rumors) and I'm glad that I fought the urge to stay in bed rather than going back to orientation this morning.

Today was our kick off to intercultural relations. No, this is not how to find, attract, and marry an Italian man. This was an intro to the Italian culture and in many segments of it we ended up comparing and contrasting America to Italy. Within the first few minutes I was a little more at ease again about being here- maybe that's because rather than security up there an Italian woman was presenting this information? At any rate, within minutes I was laughing...how can you not with an image like this?

So I figured if I don't see the world like this I was already on the right path to enjoy my time here...

But then we started talking about personal space. It's no secret that most Americans (myself included) respect a different distance than other cultures. The presenter called a 100% American up to prove this point further. They were at any acceptable distance from each other...maybe 3ft apart? Apparently this offends Italians because they see it as us not liking them.

Crap.

How many Italians have I already offended? I'm going to work on staying within an arms length of people while talking to them and not turn around when in line to glare because someone is way too close. I can do this. Why? Well I learned today that hugs are only given in this country after extended lengths of absence! So yes, if you come and visit me expect a hug but just to say "see you in a few hours?" it's not happening. I'm safe!

Well, safe is all relative...in place of the hug they actually grab your shoulders and then do the cheek to cheek mwahs and this is after only meeting them once before. Hey, you win some, you lose some.

We were also showed a ton of things that we should visit/see while we're here so I'm already getting the official "Tours di Kato" list of things together. Of course, I've yet to check any of these places out for myself but our tour out on town come Friday will help with that.

I've also learned a little bit about how to catch a bus off base. I'm hoping that I can find a local market before too long because this lack of salad fixings (like lettuce) is getting really old. Go figure that all of our produce goes through the distribution centers even when there is a ton of local agriculture. This Salinas valley girl just wants some lettuce!

***WARNING: This is the start of a side story....

After a fair amount debating if I should head to the same eating establishment as I ate the other night earlier tonight I caved. I wasn't dreading it because of the lack of quality food, but rather the fact that I've been craving sugar all day and knew I'd cave and just eat dessert for dinner. After the plan of what I was going to get (no dessert!) I headed down and asked for my "table for uno." My heart nearly broke when I realized my Italian meal plan of red wine and bruschetta was a no go because of the lack of tomatoes. I think the waiter sensed my distraught and when I asked what other dish I could have with veggies he was very helpful. I ended up with Mongolian Chicken. Yep. I'm now eating Asian cuisine in Italy, next to a picture of George Washington. I had to giggle when this all hit me but you know what? I got my veggies (zucchini, peppers, fresh mushrooms, carrots). But seriously. I need tomatoes and lettuce real soon. End Story***

What else have I learned about my new home?

• We don't use pennies here. Why not? They would cost more money to ship than they are worth. Yes, I'm operating in two currencies now- the dollar and euro- one inside the wire and the other outside. 
• There are so many historic artifacts found while doing construction they've just decided to proceed anyway. Apparently there are a few clear panels to the ground to see what they found while building...I'll have to look for that next time grocery shopping. When they built the metro out in town they just dug it super deep- they figured the extra time spent digging was less than the time it would take to clear all the archeological findings. Yeah, this place is old.  Multiple "ancient civilizations?" 
• I need to start sleeping for New Year's now. Apparently dinner starts NYE at 9pm, you eat until 12 (that's really not a stretch considering what I've already seen). They then do fireworks (both on their balconies and official ones in the sky) for about an hour. Then it's time to dress up and go hit the clubs until 7am. (Ha.) You'd think they go home after that? No. Coffee shops open early on 1 January so you can go have your first cup of caffè to kick off the new year. It's considered good luck. Only then can you go to bed.

Today was just the type of day I needed after yesterday. This whole adjustment is a process and as someone remind me, I can't expect it to happen over night. Sure I can do things to encourage a faster "assimilation" if you will, but even then it's not going to just happen like I may have been hoping/planning/expecting. Just when I thought I was learning patience, I'm once again reminded that it's a never ending process...

Okay, believe it not this blog has been written in 3 different locations today- although it started in my "office" I soon realized it was far too nice of a day to be inside. I headed off to the balcony on the 2nd floor to enjoy just a tad of late afternoon sun. When the wind kicked up too much I headed in, but I'm once again out here on the patio (just the other side) enjoying the sky turn from pink/orange to blue and well, now rather navy blue looking. It's so clear that if I manage to stay up just a tad longer I should see some amazing stars. Wait. Who needs stars? I hear and see fireworks off in the distance. I just may never understand this place but I'm still going to play the newbie card for the time being. Really wish you all were here to see this! As cheesy as it sounds I'm totally reminded of the lyrics to Somewhere Out There, but yeah, that's the real sign it's time for me to head back upstairs and get to sleep. Buona notte!

And even though I know how very far apart we are
It helps to think we might be wishing on the same bright star
And when the night wind starts to sing a lonesome lullaby
It helps to think we're sleeping underneath the same big sky

Somethings Never Change...

Yes I find it rather ironic that after yesterday's post about talking how I need change today's post is going to talk about how no matter how far away I travel there are just a few things that won't ever change. Why? Well, as I'm sometimes reminded by my mom (or was it Clint Black?), "where ever you go there you are." Hey- it's true. So often we try to escape a situation or change the outcome but when you get down to it, until you modify yourself the outcome won't change.

Example #1: Some of you may recall my Facebook status about a month back when I gave up my run at the beach for the hills behind my parents' house....then run that quickly became a hike to Laguna Seca? At first I thought I was going to appreciate the change in terrain until I kept jumping and getting freaked out by (dead) lizards and "stick snakes." So I don't like scaly things things! I've tried to work through this (watching Iggy the classroom iguana over break, interacting with the various anoles we had as pets, even taking herpetology in college which required a field trip to the desert to trap the nasty critters) but alas, it just may never happen. 

So last week on a sunny afternoon I headed through central park  on my way to the gym. Well, there were lots of little lizards scurrying back under the cover of the plants as soon as they saw me. No big deal. I knew there are over here and it was nice to see a new species rather than the blue bellies and alligator ones back at home.

Fast forward a few days as I'm walking back over to the orientation via the same paths I use to get just about everywhere. As I was moving along all of sudden I saw something. After my feet stuck the 10 point landing and I was a foot behind where I started, I had to laugh because in front me was a really pathetic looking, 2D, tail-less, torn up, dried out lizard. Epic fail Katie.

Worse part? Just on my way back- thinking about how I was going to confess my lizard run ins, knowing that they'd be out sunning themselves I still managed to jump (and more than once) when I saw them. See? Something never change.

Example #2: As you may have read it was driver's license test day. I spent some time (an hour or so) reviewing and learning the signs. Should I have spent less time blogging, tracking the Giants game, or talking with Andie? Probably but that's where my priorities were yesterday/this morning.

Yep. I missed a few too many. Again, not a huge deal but when he told me my results or rather I helped him spot where they weren't lining up, I was transported back to when I was 15 and was told I missed my permit test by 1 lousy question. The quick video montage then went through my head left me with further confirmation- I'm not a test taker. Real tests are fine but as soon as you give me a standardized test or something as simple as a multiple guess test...forget about it. I consider myself so lucky that I've never had to take one for my career because I'd be stuck forever. FOREVER.

So those are my 2 "case studies" that I had to chuckle about today because really....it's funny to know I can always count on some things to stay the same (especially when it's due to my character flaws).