Shopping in Sorrento

The first weekend I arrived in Naples I had a friend also arriving for a conference. Her adventures that day lead her to Sorrento, but my plan of meeting up with her was aborted when my body decided that sleep was way more important. (Funny how a major move and jet lag can do that.) Since I'm here for 3+ years I tease that I'm pacing myself with all things Italian- food, wine, cities, shopping but yet when I was offered to go to Sorrento with some folks from work, I jumped right on board. I just couldn't miss out a second time! 
So 9 weeks later (no longer jet lagged) we departed for Sorrento on a beautiful late July day- 80 degrees, sunshine, slight breeze, and very little humidity. Emerita (my coworker) was a fabulous tour guide as she took us to her normal roadside stops for breathtaking views of the bay's sparkling blue water. My internal compass got further confused when I realized that Mt. Vesuvius was not where I thought it should be, because we were now on the other side of it. I keep thinking that we were headed south, but really it's east. Well, I think....I still haven't looked at a map. Clearly I'm not too concerned and why would I be? Seriously. With a coast line like that I just need to be able to find the signs to get me back there.

I guess we beat all the beach traffic because we made it in a much shorter time than I had expected. We hit the streets looking for deals. Oh, didn't I mention the goal of this trip was to go purse shopping? Within the first 2 blocks we knew we were close since the smell of leather filled the air. I of course was torn to go into the purse store or the cafe across from it but we divided and conquered.

After the first few leather stores we took a break to sample limoncello. (Hey, it was 5 o'clock somewhere.) Total yum-ness with the creme flavors in both lemon and melon. I did invest in a bottle of the chocolate kind but it's not being opened until I have my first stateside visitor. (So hurry up and visit!) More strolling through the streets we came across even more purse shops, saw more sparking water, and even avoided being hit by scooters flying down the street.

We head to the Foreigner's Bar for lunch because their view was amazing from the patio. My pizza taste tests continued but it definitely wasn't true Neapolitan pizza- the crust was too thick! It was still yummy though (I don't think you can find icky pizza in all of Italy).  Once rested and refueled, the search for purses continued. Mind you, several had already been purchased at this point in our group. No, I wasn't among that group- I was holding strong- same with the shoes shops we were passing! Near the end of the day I was no longer able to be strong and the bag I saw in the first store called my name and oh no, it's now in my closet. Oops. In my defense- I got rid of a ton of them before moving out here AND it's something I couldn't get back in the states. Yes, I'll post a picture of it before too long.

Over all it was a fabulous day. A long day- the kind requiring a serious nap and early bedtime. Totally worth it though knowing I have some more Italian treasures in my collection and some scrapbook stuff being sent my way by one of the ladies we were with. Double score!

It's kind of like...Mr. Toad's Wild Ride

....every day out on the roads of southern Italy.

Today I drove to work, all by myself, without a GPS. I had warned my coworker last night that if she didn't see me by 0700 to send out the Search & Rescue Team.

In all honesty getting out on the road this time of year is perfect because it's not so crowded. You see, August is the summer holiday month here in southern Italy because it's so stinkin' hot. Um no, it's not August yet but apparently this is one thing that Italians like to be early for? Also, it's not hot at all compared to the temps I experienced in Virginia but I have a feeling that's about to change with my calendar in just a few days.  (I'm okay if it doesn't though!)

So driving into work wasn't half bad- most cars on the road were headed to the same place I was with the exception of delivery trucks. I even made all my correct turns and made it to the parking lot where I only had some issues. Go figure right? I can find where I need to go but not the parking garage?

Heading home was a little different. I found myself stalling when it was time to leave the office because I wasn't quite yet psyched up to deal with the demands of driving. It's not that the driving part is tough...but it's the "head on a swivel" that requires attention which means no rocking out with the radio. Fortunately I still haven't found  my country station (ha, I just need one CD to get unpacked and I'll be happy) so it's not too hard to eliminate that distraction.

What kills me the most about driving here is that fact that it really feels like Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. Not so much the driving through brick walls and then escaping hell but more of the not committing to a single lane. Most driver's straddle two lanes (or the shoulder) and move over just enough to allow someone to pass on the left or pass whoever is driving super slow in the right lane.

I know in the past I've been accused of being a tailgater and a zooming in/out of traffic driver but I now think it was just in preparation for living here. Don't get me wrong- I was in the slow lane (traffic was moving at 40mph) most of the time just because I didn't want to miss my exits.

You know how I've talked about "just going with it" in the past? I think driving in Italy best illustrates why I gotta "just go with it": there is no use fighting the flow of traffic and lack of rules. I'm not the first to say this (and I've probably said it before) but the roads of Naples really are controlled chaos. I for one will be trying to maintain some order out there but if I ever hope to enter a round-about I'm going to have to get out there and pray I get out of the mass of cars with Ravi in the same condition he was when we entered it.

Stay tuned for more updates, but I think the best way to really know what I'm talking about is to come out here and hit the roads with me. Or you know, I'll try to get some video footage next time I have a passenger.

Che cosa è esso? Round 2

Now it's time for a little game I'm going to call che cosa è esso? and pray that the internet translation is semi correct...but should I learn differently the game's name will change.

It's pretty simple:

• I'm going to post a picture of something I've found.
• Make your guess on the what it is- using the comments here on the blog.
• I'll keep track of points and if you rock at this game I just may send a little bit of Italy your way!

(Yes, I do have stuff on my hotel walls...this is home for now!)

Feeling the Love

So I had a feeling I'd have some mail after being gone for two weeks, but at best I figured a credit card statement, LES, and something from one of my banks. The last thing I expected was a stack of real mail when I opened my desk drawer looking for my calculator. Then and there my travel claim was put on hold as I read letters from some of my most favorite people in the world. Seriously- today was my first day I had letters from non family members complete with drawings and even presents*.

Birth announcements, advice from a best friend (btw, thanks Erin), a sketch of Kazoo, inside jokes, family updates and nicknames gallore made me miss it all for a minute. But then I realized that some of my favorite things from "home" were enclosed in those envelopes so I had the best of my two lives!

And can we just all appreciate that magnet? Thanks LT 1.0---way to be the first one to officially call me out on my enabler status. It made me laugh out loud...but luckily none of my coworkers made me explain what was going on. Wait. Is that a good thing or have they already come to expect things like that from me?

*I'd like to make a correction- week #2 I received non family mail...but from someone I've known since age 9 so I guess I lumped her in with the family.  Yep. My brain decides to remember these things at 0400.

The Hunt for Housing Round V

Oh wow. It really is round five. I was thinking to myself what’s a reasonable number to list even if it feels like trip number DLII and somehow V turned out to be the number. Go figure.

I’m beginning to feel like this is shoe shopping- I know what I want, I know what I want to pay, I’m looking for it in all the places I should be able to find it…yet I’m not finding what I want. Sure there are lots of other pairs that are fun, way more practical and those that could work, but my heart is set on what I have pictured in my head or have seen in other locations. Shoot, I even have a “personal shopper” looking at all the options with me to make sure I’m not going off into the deep end…although he is not so much the voice of reason when his goal is to get me settled into a place.  

Do I sound defeated? Not yet, but for those who haven’t dealt with this before, try to understand where I’m coming from. My stuff was taken away from me on 2 May, so for past 2.5 months I’ve been living out of 2 suitcases and one of them was basically filled with gym clothes (priorities). I have just enough work clothes to get me through the 2 week rotation, assuming I can convince myself to iron. Actually, that’s always an entertaining exchange that goes something like:

Fashionista Katie: I’m sick of wearing the same few tops because you refuse to iron. It’s bad enough I’m still wearing these old black flats that need to be thrown out.

Domestic Katie: Look, you know I don’t iron…that’s why we always look at tags before buying clothes.

Fashionista Katie: Don’t remind me. Is it really my fault that these things spent forever rolled up in a suitcase? And you don’t seem to pull them from the dryer early enough to let them dry wrinkle free…

Domestic Katie: I miss our laundry service…do you think they would relocate here if we asked? Please remind me to add “must do all ironing” to my husband criteria list.

Well, that’s how the last round went. Now the fact that my house hold goods (aka everything I own) and my car are here, just adds to the pressure of the peak PCS season and the fact that I’m somewhere in my last 30 days inTLA.

I can’t even begin to convey how happy I will be to unpack, decorate, plant a garden, look for a kitty, and start hosting people. Funny thing though- you can’t do any of that until you pick a place. So for that reason, I picked up the phone to make an appointment with Enzo this week. Little did I know it was going to be today. Oh well, no time like the present! Slightly jet lagged, starving, and just a little limping, I met him on hour #12 of my day. (A deadly combination right? I was totally civil- honest!)

Today’s tour took us back to Monte Di Procida via Cuma and through 4 places. Since I wasn't planning on going house hunting after working my camera was not with me so it's time to use your imagination!

The first place was in Cuma, right before the Arco (as in ancient Roman building, not gas station). We went off roading on a one lane dirt lane. All I've got to say it's the most exciting terrain Ravi will have ever seen should I move into this place. If you continue past the Roman Amphitheater you come across a 4 or 5 unit place. Here we saw apartment #1. I'm going to call it the If I lived here I'd be sleeping on the terrace every night option. As you walked into the entry way, there were 7 doors all leading to different places- living room, kitchen, bathrooms x2, and bedrooms x3. But seriously the rooms were just a great size but they all had doors out to the terrace that over looked Ischia, Procida, and yes,  you could see Mt Vesuvius! The walls are already painted great colors- greens, yellows, and light oranges. Both bathrooms were recently redone. There is a parking garage, but apparently most tenants use them for storage. Seriously? Storage? I don't even have enough stuff to outfit a 2 bedroom place, let alone a 3 bedroom place. 

Yes. I did love this one. It sort of snapped my mood, especially when I saw 2 kitties longing to be adopted in the parking area. So why didn't I stop the tour there by saying "I'll take it?" A German Officer lived next door and an American couple lived upstairs. 

What's my mantra? 

If I'm living in Italy, I want to feel like I'm living in Italy!!! 

It still is my back up plan but between being outside the town and being surrounded by other non-Italians its over all score falls significantly below the place we saw next (even though I could be moved in pretty fast and I'm more comfortable with that rent rate). 

Stop #2 was on 2 street across from Chiesa di S. Antonio and basically in the square. A Canadian had moved out the day before and as we headed up a ton of stairs ("good exercise" as Enzo put it) it was clear the movers still hadn't picked everything up. Between the stacks of boxes, some furniture, and materials for the re-vamping of 2 of the 3 bathrooms it was a little intimating. After checking out the bedrooms in the lower portion of the house (separate entrance even for my guests!) we ventured upstairs to the 1/2 floor where it was a window enclosed "office." You know me and my planning...it's going to be a breakfast nook if I move in.  To avoid coffee spillage coming down the stairs I'll probably just put the coffee maker there. The rest of the way up the stairs led to the kitchen, living room, and the bathroom/laundry room. But wait. That's not even the best part. The best part was the roof top terrace over looking all of Monte di Procida and the islands (Capri too). Although parts of it were enclosed, it was glass so you still had at least a 270degree view of other rooftops, buildings, and the water. 

The house definitely has character and quirks which threw me off at first but seriously I could make it work. I wish I could see it again when all the things that need to move out are out- just to make sure it's not the jet lag talking...

What about the other tenants? Well, it's just the owner, an older lady who has 4 daughters (3 in America and a son (also in America). Apparently tenants in the past have all been Canadian single guys...watch out Canada...I'm about to take this one over. She didn't speak English but again, rumor has it past renters have called her mama since she looks out for them and also cooks for them? Shoot, I'll cook for her if she teaches me how to! Sounds great right?

Wait for it.

And here it is...the red flag.

We teased my sister about her landlords in Texas last year. After helping her move in and meeting them, we quickly dubbed them "Frank and Marie Barone"- you know, from Everyone Loves Raymond? "Marie" was always stopping by to check on them and kept an eye on who was driving down the lane. My concern is that this well meaning lady may be the same way and I'm stick with her for 3-5 years? She doesn't speak English so that may be in my favor (both to limited contact and me learning Italian).

I don't know. Input please! You know me and my mantra. 

Places 3 and 4 aren't worth writing about because it's going to come down to one of the two places above....or the amazing kitchen I saw a few weeks back. 

The last bit of information worth repeating today was when I was telling Enzo that I'll call him tomorrow so if he could have rent numbers for me as well as confirmation that a kitty is okay. (An Italian kitty, we had already established that in place #1.) He asked me why do I want a cat when there are so many single Italian guys that I could "adopt and feed." I told him he had a great point, but at the end of the day boyfriends talk back and a kitty doesn't.

Back on the Boot

It's crazy just how quickly I've adjusted back to Naples. All my pre-TDY fears have been eliminated and I'm back to business as usual. Before arriving I was already planning/scheming on what needed to be done and got most of it done. (See? Business as usual!) My laundry pile still out measures my motivation, and although that's pretty standard it's a fraction of what it started as...so it can sit a bit longer...I have a blog to write!

When I eventually woke up I realized it was dark because of rain, not because it was early. It most definitely wasn't early... oops. I did have plans but luckily they were pretty flexible since I knew jet-lag was most likely going to do its thing.  Just add 3 shots of espresso though and I'm human. After a quick moment of panic about driving outside the gate I recovered with a motivational pep talk, then Ravi and I were in game mode and ready to go get Casey.

Success!

Well, in the land of coordinates vs addresses it's tough to figure out which house I was actually going to but it wasn't too hard to find and she found me!

Ravi was then ready for his first Italian meal since he'd been on 1/4 tank since Oakland. After some crazy Katie math converting units then trying to tell the attendant what I needed, we got it. Well, it really wasn't simple or straight forward but we figured it out. We're still not sure what he was asking once we established I did not want diesel but it sure was fun to try to guess. We must have made his morning since as we left we got a "you're very beautiful." Windows up, doors locked, driving on. Hey, we didn't peel out.

Next stop was Bacoli, but we really didn't have coordinates or detailed instructions. Well, I take that back. We had instructions but were too busy talking and trying to focus on the road that we ended up following road signs. All I've got to say is I'm so happy I pay attention when I'm sitting in that passenger seat. Parts of the trek were slightly adventurous but as soon as I saw the sidewalk where grilled corn is normally being sold and the intersection that I turned at, therefore avoiding "touch down Jesus" we were good. Like a pro (well, if I kept my second guessing in my head rather than out loud) I figured out where we were and somehow eventually found "the park where parking was available." Sounds sketchy right? Ravi wasn't going to have any of that so we found a lot where I left my keys with a nice man and prayed that I would be able to find the lot again and that my car would still be there. (They were a legit parking lot!)

After walking in the rain in our dresses, sandals and only one of us having an umbrella...we reached the market. It was hilarious getting looks. Apparently not many Americans are out on rainy Saturday mornings at this market? Oh well, they'll get used to me since it's going to be a regular stop for me once I move out that way! I was ecstatic to buy peaches, tomatoes, and eggplant. I think I ended up with a chilo (really, it's kilo but that's how they spell it) with each and I'm so happy. The only thing I didn't end up with was a watermelon but how practical is that to carry around town? We were already getting enough looks...

After sufficiently walking around the down town area, we found Ravi. Actually, we didn't see where they had parked it. Slight panic. Then I heard the familiar ignition start up and Ravi reappeared just like I left him. Phew. Yes, I am a protective car owner...poor Casey must think I'm crazy with how I wanted to keep check on him. Excessive? Probably but why risk it? I've been 6+ weeks without a car and don't want to do that again.

Although we were ready for lunch, it wasn't quite Italy lunch time so up the hill we went to MdP and I gave the driving tour. I really do love the town and just need to pick a place to live already. Yes, you did read that correctly, I'm giving tours of a place I've been 3 times! I told you. I'm going to live there so I need to know all about it. As we headed back down the hill I realized that I missed my "train station shortcut" so we kept going. Good thing we did because Casey spotted the most wonderful pizzeria! After some creative driving an a street side parking spot we found ourselves in the little place ordering pizza. Wonderful pizza.

As we sat and ate we noticed a menu item of pizza alla nutella. After wondering what in the world that would taste like I was convinced to try it since "we were there" and Casey leaves in 2ish weeks. Peer pressure isn't always a bad thing especially when it means you're consuming something too delicious for words. Basically I never want a chocolate croissant again...I want one of these! Nutella wrapped in pizza dough then thrown in the pizza oven? I'm going to add this discovery to the "cons against living in MdP" although it's really not a con unless you ask my thighs.

Food comas induced we headed over to the mall for some shopping. Of course by this time the rain had cleared but still not beach weather so indoors we went. With the pizza in the belly and jet lag combo, I was safe to enter the mall. You read about all the shopping I did last week- even though it's sale month here in Italy I passed on most items...because although I wanted it I didn't need it. (Even in Scarpe&Scarpe- that shoe store we found all those months back!) The only thing that I failed to leave behind was a scoop of gelato. Today's flavor was pistacchio since it came recommended last time. The color is still a little "off" if you ask me, but the mild flavor rocked my taste buds.

I couldn't think of better way to spend my first day back on the boot. Driving in the rain was intimidating at first, but once I realized it was keeping the beach traffic off the roads I needed to be on I was thankful for it. Ravi didn't get to use his voice today even though there were a lot of other cars that did. I still don't know if they were "hi's" to someone else (we were in pretty small towns) or if I was doing something wrong. All I know is, I stayed in my lane, obey the rules, and tired to stay out of the ways of others. I'm still debating if that 50km/hr sign in rainy weather is a typo or not. Really? 35mph? That's the same speed for snow too. I know I use the "hey I'm in Italy" as justification a lot but that just doesn't even work here. Of course, the fact that I'm in Southern Italy means that few traffic rules are even obeyed so maybe they did just get a discount on the 50 signs?

Departure Day!

Yes, I am very excited to head back home. I hope that the heat will be a tad more tolerable or at least not be so humid.

Packing was quite the adventure- I swear I didn't buy that much but seeing it laid out for packing sure didn't help my argument. The fact that my suitcase weighed 50 pounds exactly (yes, I am a pro), I shipped 11 pounds, and my carry ons gave my arms a workout they've been missing this past week further weakened my original assessment. I'm sure my credit card statement will be the third and final strike against it, but when really is the next time I'll be at some of my favorite stores? Hopefully my body also isn't coming back heavier...but there was lots of good food & again, hamburgers. Actually, I do have a ton of new freckles so maybe they can be blamed for some extra mass? Hey- a girl can justify and rationalize until she's blue in the face and I just may do that after my first trip back to the gym.

Finding my way to ORF was no biggie although I had no idea that's what it looked like. Apparently not only was in really late/dark when I arrived but I was also not looking around. Eh, it was dark and I had a GPS telling me where to go. After snagging one last passion lemonade tea from Starbucks I sat at the gate. And sat more. We finally boarded and then sat even more. The plan was so hot (because it had been waiting for us) and the air just wasn't moving. Fortunately I was in the front row of this little CRJ200 and while the door was still open felt some air. Problem was when it was shut I wanted to die. It was the kind of heat that all you want to do is sleep- so I'm pretty sure I did. Nothing like dying of heat and sweat before your first flight takes off in a sequence of travel. We had to wait again after arriving at JFK. I don't get it. I just sit and wait.

JFK was fun. Maybe because I was in terminal 2 (not 3) or maybe it's because I started talking with a lady who was supposed to leave for Munich 20 minutes after I left for Rome and a girl headed to Mexico City 10 minutes before my flight left. I mention the times because guess who's flight was the last to leave? You've got it- mine! It was also fun talking to Americans getting ready for their Italy tour since it gave me more places to check out and even more excited about heading home. Yes, home.

I cat napped on and off that entire flight but after watching La Dulce Vida. It's an Italian film that was only so so but most of it takes place in Kenya. For a split second I wanted to find myself a Nairobi bound flight when touching down in Rome. Well, it was for more than a split second. And in the midst of it I thought hey- Kenya felt like home too. No Katie, you can't have that many homes.

Lots of time passed while I slept....woke up just in time for a breakfast of random stuff including Milano cookies? Hm. Maybe I am Italian? Yum.

After another short flight that  I slept through, I made it back to the land of fanny packs, tiny cars, and Euros. Let me tell you- I've never been so happy to get off a non full airplane and feel the ambient temp. At 11am it was a mere 21C! I think VA was maybe getting that cool late at night? Best part???? Little to no humidity! Thank you Naples for your welcome back present to me.

Crab Feed: Where people eat (not feed) the crabs

Last official day of training and I'd say it's about two days too late, but since each day of training meant an evening adventure I'm willing to make some sacrifices. Some. SLDCADA training is definitely that boundary between acceptable/not acceptable. (FYI SLDCADA is our timekeeping system that starting today you have to have the official certs to even view their homepage- yeah, I did learn something!)

I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting but sitting watching the instructor click through the menu "training" a bunch of us from various commands using the system wasn't really it. At least in Monterey I had a computer to follow along with and also had a little more coprate knowledge so knew more about what was going on. I had to chuckle though- there always has to be one, two, or in my case today, THREE people who always ask questions. And when I say questions I really mean people starting off as a question but then answering it on their own to show their know how on the system. Grrrrrrrrr. Time wasting!

The lunch break was really nice. We had the changed to head over to Yorktown Pub for some tasty food. It's here I ended my vacation relationship with hamburgers. I almost let it go on for one more day since the crab cakes looked delicious, but I'm glad I didn't because when I showed up at the Smith's house I was told we were eating crab!

Turns out a friend of theirs had lots of fresh crab and needed help eating them. A problem we could totally help with. "Lot's" didn't even begin to describe how many crabs they had- more like a ton since they filled up a small laundry basket. As soon as we pulled up I spotted them and yes, I was playing with them shortly there after.

The Fighter and I met. He wanted out and I wanted to pick him up. You'd think we could have been great partners but no, he wanted to pinch me. A lot. Well Larry AKA Professional Crabber and who we owed this fabulous meal to, showed me the way to pick them up. Win for Katie!

Anther win for Katie was sitting next to Larry at the table. Why?

1. He showed me how to pull apart the crabs which was crucial. Why? Well as Chrystal retold her story of the Crab Feed (you know, where people go eat crabs) in Monterey she told me it's way different in East Coast land. 
2. With every dissection demo, the stack of edible crab grew taller in front of me. This meant less cut up fingers while I barbarically pulled, crushed, pounded, snapped the shell away from the meat. Maybe it only felt that way though since my coach said I caught on real quick. What can I say- I like to take things apart and with all my dissection days this was cake...crab cake! 

We must have been at that table for hours and although we ate until we couldn't there was still huge bowl of cooked crab (and crab dippin' sauce)! It looked like we didn't even put a dent in them...until you looked at our trash collection. It was a fabulous night filled with amazing food and even more amazing company- the perfect way to close out my VA TDY.

The Traveling Katie Show

This morning I had a shocking discovery- my suitcase and backpack no longer held all my belongings. Now I had the sneaky suspicion that this would be the case so made arrangements for a real second carry-on and am still debating if I'm just going to ship a small box back. Do I really want to tote around a suitcase in the airports? Nope!

Clearly I'm not that concerned as I just got back from a Cost Plus and (yes another) Target trip. What did I get? Nothing too exciting- a new lid for my coffee mug and a strainer thingy for the kitchen sink for when I return to the land of no garbage disposals. It felt like a typical week day night- me wandering aimlessly through a store with lots of things I want but less than 1% of things I should actually walk out the door with. It really is retail therapy but at least I'm a pro with browsing. Seriously though, seeing brands I know and reading wine labels from Monterey, Paso Robles, Napa, Sonoma and even spotting a few that I've visited brings home all that closer. It may be genetic- I remember my sister telling me she did the same thing in the produce aisle when she moved looking for "home." Something happened in the wine section though- I started looking at the Italy wines! 

I think I'm caught between 2 "homes" and I don't know how I feel about this. 

Where we love is home, 

Home that our feet may leave, 

but not our hearts.

-Oliver Wendell Holmes

So yeah. Maybe all this hotel living really is wearing on me. Don't get me wrong, I'm so thrilled that this new command is able to send me on these trainings and that I get to meet the higher ups so early in my career with them but really? I'm ready to set up home in MdP...especially since I received word today that my HHG shipment arrived. For you non military folks that means that not only did my shoes and clothes arrive, but so did my everything else I shipped- like my teddy bear! He's never been out of the country and I'm sure he's ready to be out of his box.

Seriously though, I think all this traveling/living out of suitcase is getting to me. I didn't really remember it was Tuesday until I had a video chat with someone in Monterey in his uniform. Ridiculous right? My place here in Newport News is really nice...nicer than "home" back in Gricignano. But again, reminds me of my days back at NPS when I would send the Admirals out here for all the big NDIA conferences. It's nice to know that after one more day of training, one (hopefully two) social visits, I'll be on my way back to Italy and back to house hunting.

Take Me Out to the Ball Game, Round 2

I should expect things like this. Come to think of it the same thing happened the first few games I went to at AT&T Park...am I a home team curse?

Game one of a three games series between the Norfolk Tides and Toledo Mud Hens started out as a good game, but quickly spiraled into torture. I'm a Giants fan, so I know torture! Actually, let me back up a bit.

After peeling myself away from video chats and phone calls I made it down to the ballpark. While waiting in line to get a ticket I was handed a free ticket voucher- sweet! When I made it to the promenade, the greeter shook my hand and welcomed me to Harbor Park. Um yeah, apparently my Tides' hat made me look like a local or else he just liked the way it looked?! It made me smile and once again appreciate this southern hospitality.

My seat wasn't nearly as fabulous as last time around but I was with more of the home team fans that were passionate about their team which is always great. The fact that it was a night game also was fabulous- and my skin appreciated the lack of UV rays beaming down, but the air was filled with accents. You think I'd be used to it by now...but I'm not. I'm telling you, being out here has added to my laugh lines so much because I've been even more smiley than normal.

The worse part was when some Tides fans started to heckle Clete. I don't even know what they were saying and yes, it was rude (not crude, just rude). It made me remember the Giants v Dodgers game I was at with my family for my bday a few years back...when some Giants' fan started to heckle Billingsley about NutraSystem.

At any rate, like I mentioned, the Tides didn't have their A game. They had the lead 2 times but fell apart in the 7th. Although I was watching the game, I was also watching the out of town scores to keep tabs on when my real team (the Giants of course) started their series against the enemy (Dodgers). I did refrain from chanting "Beat LA" but after a double play that should have not been one I gave up on the Tides. Yes I did. They were down by 6 with 3 outs left. I don't think they had anyone left in their bullpen since that's where most their issued resided last night.

My parting words to the park were "I'm trading this is for the pros" and I did just that. I'm happy my boys delivered. As for the Tides, I'll probably be back one day but in the mean time I'll just wear your logo proudly when I'm too lazy to wash my hair and need to go out in public after the gym.

Last Day of Shenanigans

Early, early morning means only one thing- we're on a mission for food! C'on, we were talking breakfast plans the night before as we ordered dinner. Although I swear makeup was applied to go with the swimsuit & sun screen slathered skin look,  I just look like hot mess, a happy hot mess with mimosa in hand, but a hot mess none the less.

As we waited for our table we figured out how to be rebels with the no cursing signs. Genius struck and we worked on our sign when a waiter walked behind us asking if we'd want some of the crayons. Is it bad that I did? (This should be no surprise to you trivia folks!)

After a scrumptious breakfast we headed down to the already busy beach and I decided since I was there, I was going in. It was cold. Not "I'm going to go into shock when my blood stream starts turning to ice" but close. What did I do? Waded out further of course. By the time that we were gathering our items to head to our photo shoot, we were amazed with the hoards of people on the beach. Think March of the Penguins but then make it a sandy beach, turn the penguins into people, and throw lots of umbrellas in for color.

Photo shoot time, now that we've been coated in sand, salt water, and more sun. Looking like fools, we held up our @Z#!! sign (made without crayons) below the sign. A lady collecting donations laughed at us and said it was the most creative one she'd seen after her years of living in Virginia Beach- that's how we do things!

The afternoon is a blur of poolside reading, World Cup watching, and pedicures but that made getting directions to the tapas place all the more entertaining. We kept forgetting that places across the river showed up but on the walk back to the car (walking across the water wasn't an option nor was swimming despire the directions we were given). Then we had one more lightbulb moment when we realized that the ferry could take us over! Way more fun than driving, especially when the sun was beginning to set. It took us back to our adventures in Chicago last summer, although it wasn't pouring rain this time around.

Finally arriving at Still, our destination for tapas and something on tap we entered the dark quasi basement. Seriously, we kept finding mood lit restaurants for our "date nights."

 I think our hunger finally kicked in as we did our mini tour around the world with our tapas selection: fire roasted veggie quesadilla, chicken voodoo, seafood hot pot, crab cake, sweet potato fries. Now granted our beers were from Wisconsin or something but they were fabulous. I'll have to have Steph consult her notes of the day for the actual beer name but it was from Unibrew and a summery brew. I'm only a little sad that I won't be able to get it back in Italy but some of you can get a hold of it and I'm going to tell you all to try it. 

Our last photo shoot of the trip was in the streets of Olde Towne Portsmouth.

I had a frog to kiss.

Again, I'm blaming it on multiple recent viewings of The Princess and the Frog which was only further influenced by our dessert of (man catching) beignets the night before. Well, in the words of Superchic[k] some frogs will still be frogs and mine apparently fell into the category, but not before I could give him a piece of my mind. Yeah, he does look a little sleazy, right? I've already chatted with Steph about why she wasn't looking out for me...

Steph's photo shoot of the night was with the handicap accessible door opening button outside the Children's Museum.

As we were still laughing about the frog, we looked over and saw it. Within seconds we were unsuccessfully fighting back fits of laughter and getting the camera ready. Yes, it is hard to take a decent picture when you're laughing.

Over all it was great evening but it's all because of the company I was in. Steph, thank you so much for taking the time to drive down and spend some quality time with me this weekend. I'm still sad that we're probably a good 12+ months out from seeing each other again, but I think I have enough memories, pictures, and laughs from this weekend to get me to at least December.  I'm not sure how I feel about being adults and having to work all the time but if it gets really bad I already plan on brewing a cup of Oregon coffee and calling you on Skype. I mean, we need to start planning our next adventure- right? 

West Coast Unite & Take on the "Other Coast"

As soon as I knew I was headed to VA there was one friend I notified. No doubt about it, I was going to move mountains, swim the sea, and even lasso the moon in order to make sure that I saw her. Granted, it's only been 10 months since we said our last good byes as I descended to the United terminal at IAD after our epic road trip from California to Maryland, but what can I say? I'm lucky enough to have a friend like her and let's face it, I was uber spoiled with her living in Monterey for several weeks last summer since we hadn't lived in the same town since 1998! You all thought I was exaggerating with my facebook post, but seriously- I've known her since I was much closer to single digits in age and that's a long time!

At any rate, I was thrilled to get the call "2 minute out" last night and closed the video chat rather quickly (sorry Phil!) to head down to meet up with her to go find food at midnight. Can I just share with you all how happy I was to see an Oregon license plate in a sea of Virginia plates? My partner in too many shenanigans had arrived- watch out world- Stephanie and I were finally reunited!

As we went on the hunt for food and finally ended up at IHOP (oh how I've missed breakfast food!) our conversation went ranged from inane to serious with so many in between it was like our cross country itinerary last year. (Seriously- if you're a FB friend check out that photo album.) Somehow our quick venture turned into being up until 0300- but you know what? When you've been friends for so long and have some serious catching up to do, sleep doesn't really matter. 

After catching up where we had left thing in person and other chats, our first order of business was to head over to Virginia Beach. With our white (emphasis on white...actually let's call our skin tone ultra white) saturated with SPF 50 we joined all the other cars on the highway to stake our claim on some burning sand. It felt like a beach town, with a boardwalk filled with people, swimsuits on everyone, and tons of umbrellas lined up on the beach. Although we appreciated the sun, we both decided that we missed our West Coast beach a little to much...even if being able to stick our feet in the water without losing a toe to frostbite was rather refreshing. We decided we'll head back over in the morning, in hopes of a slightly less crowded beach. Reason #2 is to try out a breakfast place that some random MSC guy told me about in last week's training. Reason #3 is to get a picture of the no cursing sign since only while driving did we seem to track them down.

With some more pigment in our skin (to raise it to ecru) we headed back into Norfolk for phase II of our day- Italian wine, cheese, and crackers. Actually, driving back we opted to exit and follow the signs to Mount Trashmore and trek up the only elevation in this area. For those of you who aren't familiar with this park- check out the link. It's pretty much a landfill that they threw more dirt on to make a hill. We had a blast rolling down the side of it and were happy to add Mount Trashmore to our list of random places visited.

Letting our GPS guide lead us, we followed it to our phase IIb-picnic in the room! Yes, too hot to be outside and we needed a break since phase III was to hit the downtown mall. After trying on "fancy hats," being over whelmed in Forever XXI, succumbing to Nine West and their beautiful shoes (hey, we averaged 1 pair each...I just won't tell you who got what), it was time to clean up and get to dinner.

After being asked "hey ladies, how you doin'?" and then offended him by continuing to walk to our destination we found ourselves at the Big Easy. Although it wasn't a crowded place (wait, maybe because at this point it was after 9 and I'm back in America?) we had a fabulous meal. Steph had the world's shortest relationship with the King of Crawdads and returned him to sender, but that was after they shared some precious moments together. 

Unsuccessfully avoiding Mr. How You Doin' and his friend, Mr. No Cover Charge at the same bar, we walked around the downtown area and broke our plans of returning. Actually we had no plans on returning and even made it a point to avoid that corner again. As we walked along the waterfront I gave her my unofficial tour. Unofficial because I was mainly giving her my opinions on the artwork and telling her about my previous adventures out there. Like always we had a photo shoot with the statues (yes at midnight) and had to laugh when we saw a few others doing the same thing.

When our tour concluded at our hotel, the fun sure wasn't over. It was time to introduce her to one of my favorite Italian wines- a light sparkly red. Although we're primarily white wine women, I knew this one would be a hit. On problem? The stupid bottle did not want to open! Seriously. My t-rex arms have been gaining massive strength again but I couldn't get that cork out if my life depended on it! I think we passed it back and forth a few times and FINALLY after a good 5 minutes and major frustration we got it. It took way too much effort even for that wine...

Our goals for the weekend were actually met all in one (very long day) but that's the great thing about goals- once met you get to make new ones! Off to go see what other things we can do today, starting with breakfast on the beach. 

Driving in America

Earlier this week I was able to hit the open road and head to Dalhgren (AKA Middle of Nowhere), VA to see the Fox family. Okay, well maybe departing the Norfolk area and heading the same direction as a bazillion work commuters after braving some tourist traffic doesn't exactly equate to "open road" but seriously- even with the 4 lanes of traffic I had to laugh when the thought of "in Naples there would be 6 lanes" crossed my mind.

Since it was quite the drive (and worth every mile) I had lots of time to stare out at the road in front of me and study the license plate parked ahead. In between rocking out with 4 different country stations I quickly realized that apart from the sounds of air moving through my window, my backup singers and my awesome lead vocals the road was rather quiet. Quiet during the work commute? Crazy right? Several more miles up the road I finally realized what was missing- any guesses?

Got anything?

No? It took me a few minutes too.

Motorcycles and scooters were not flying out of nowhere violating my personal space! Come to think of it, there were no cars flying past me. No mom, I was not the one doing the flying...I was always driving the speed limit which just happened to be my favorite 70 MPH. I did however want to flash my lights at a few cars to encourage them to move over. (I'm so ready for this driving in Naples thing but I have a feeling I'll be the one being passed once out there.)

Once I figured out what was missing the rest of the drive was rather uneventful. I kept thinking I was almost there as I made it through forests and passed a ton of historical markers but that GPS disagreed with my opinion. When I passed Polecat Creek (I wonder if they say creek or crick in these parts) and then Hog Heaven I knew it would be only a few more miles before reaching my destination. After going through some Army country, I was outside the oh-so familiar looking gates waiting to be invited on...don't worry- they let me on.

At last I was united with one of my favorite NPS grads and one of my many assistants from the years I spent at NPS. As I sat on the floor arranging train tracks with the girls and chatting with the adults about the joys of TLQ, moving, and chatting about new our new jobs I realized that I really miss all the interactions with people. I was transported back to Bullard 102A where Jason and I used to chat half asleep in the quiet building while holding big ole mugs of coffee in our hands. Granted, it was warmer at 11pm than Monterey ever was and it was beer rather than coffee but you get the idea- once again I was reminded that it's the people of the 831 I miss...not so much the location.

Finally after hours of chatting it was time to head back down (I think it was south...I'm telling you when there is water in every direction my internal compass is kaput) and the full moon helped light the road. Another successful reuniting with an awesome family! I can't wait to visit again so I can see the "big guns" and turkeys. Thanks again for being flexible with schedules and making it work :-)

"Balancing All the Wild & Wonderful Things that Make Up Life"

Most of you have heard me quote the Curly Girl-isms from time to time, and given that this is exactly how I feel right now I couldn't pass up the oppertunity. In fact, I can't wait to get the rest of my collection back in my household good shipments so I can once again put them up in my office. I actually just got a new coffee mug from Leslie & Curly Girl Design and now love my morning coffee time even more!

SORRY- didn't mean for this to be an ad (but seriously- if you ever feel like getting me something it's hands down one of your safest bets).

At any rate, given this nearly 2 week TDY in VA I had to find this balance between official travel (you know, the reason they sent me out here) with shopping and hanging out with long lost friends. Throw in a little bit of jet lag and it's almost a model destined for Solver, but a week into it and a shout out to my FB friends to let them know I'm here- I'm learning during the day and socializing in the evenings. Sleep? Yeah, some of that is happening too.

Despite mixed feelings about returning the the states, the fact that my beloved Target beckoned made the 22 hour travel day more tolerable. I'd like to say that I picked my hotels based on shopping locations, but alas, I thought of that after I got here- better plan next trip!
After day 2...or was it 3...I invaded my former boot camp, class break office chatting, "can MIC be any worse?" buddy. Seriously- I showed up about 2 hours earlier than originally planned. Our plan of shopping was not modified. (Get ready for a little flash back...queue water ripples...)

Ever since I can remember, I've been a Target fanatic! In middle school I remember Babs and I going crazy in the aisles- it was the store to find everything! When the Sand City store opened, Nina and I were there for the inaugural purchase. As soon as I had a steady pay check, you could find me there at least once a week. Seriously, until mid-May my credit card statement read something like Target, Michaels, Verizon (oh how I miss my phone), Target, Kohls, Target, Cost Plus, Trident Room. Hey, at least you can't say I don't combine trips when you take into account all 3 locations...

In an attempt to curb my spending I implemented the "only what you can carry" rule. Yes, it means if I can't stack my bounty in my arms- I've collected too much. Yes, I have figured out how to bend this rule but I'm finding that the lack of Targets in Italy eliminate the need for the rule. So why am I going on (and on) about Target? So you understand our relationship history.

So after catching up with Chrystal we headed to the red bulls-eye and started our 3 hour adventure through the aisles, cart and all. Each aisle was a re-acquaintance with American brand names and sizes. While taking in all the items, my brain realized it didn't have to convert prices from euros to dollars to figure out if it really was a deal like the yellow tag claimed. 

But Katie- what about your rule?! Please refer to the living over seas clause which means I pack wine (since we can't ship it) and all free space can be replaced with my bounty. Um yeah, when Chrystals' hubby finally saw us again he asked if we left anything in the store. It wasn't that bad, but it wasn't my typical 1-2 bag trip.

Actually, Chrystal- I'm calling you out- you were a HORRIBLE voice of reason. The whole "you're going to regret it if you don't buy it/do you really want to wait to have it shipped?" didn't help at all. But yes, we found some great deals and I loved your commentary during our raid. More than you comments though I loved the fact that our "let's go run for old time's sake" was swapped to the epic shopping trip and food. I think that's what matters at the end of the day (and perhaps sheds some light into my love of Target)- is the social experience and not so much the stocking up on hard to find items or adding some new things into my oh-so short rotation cycle of outfits (but they are sure an added bonus).

Fan Mail!

From time to time during this project I've felt that I'm bombarding everyone with posts. I mean let's face it- do you all really care about the type of gelato I ate that day or how many mosquitoes bit my leg? I then have to remind myself that ultimately these posts are for me. The end goal is to still remember all these details/feelings when my brain has archived them and as the decades pass I can't recall where they were filed.

At any rate, so many of you have given feedback in our chats/emails/Facebook life and it's really encouraging. I love the fact that some of the first comments my folks gave me were in response to my improved writing skills- they have come a long way! Well, this week I received my first official "fan mail" when USPS tracked me down in Virginia. Among the important documents I had a great note from one of my biggest fans-

To the untrained eye this may look primitive, but this original shows a turn in his work. Unlike his previous work, the subject actually has structure and is not an amorphous blob. Way to go Dad! I think this is most definitely going to make my "don't count the miles, count the I love yous" wall. Besides making me laugh when I see it, it will serve as a reminder to lay off the espresso from time to time so I don't look get this crazy eye look.

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

So I may not be in Italy, but that doesn't mean I'm adventure free! Here in VA (dangit, I keep typing CA and get sad) there are lots of things for me to check out. Naturally I found myself at Harbor Park within 12 hours of getting into town...it's just down the street!

Around me I saw 3 generations enjoying the Sunday game together, which made me miss my favorite ball park (AT&T of course) with my dad in the seat next to me. The nostalgia didn't last too long when I realized that rather than putting on a parka, beanie, and blanket I wanted to stand in a freezer. Yeah, baseball games are best played in the sunshine (not fog).

Unfortunately, the Tides lost to the Bulls but I'm always happy to be at the ballpark. The air was filled with my favorite sounds: baseballs smacking the leather gloves, the cracking of bats, striiiiike. I hope to make it to another game next week- when they play the Toledo Mud Hens! Yeah, I love these random team names.

Operation Return Katie 9 July x 2

So I know I said I was going off the grid, but my brain didn't get the memo and has been going non stop over the last 22 hours of traveling. Although I've done a fair amount of international travel- it still catches me off guard at times just how different airports are!

Operation Return Katie started at the Capodichino Airport. (The one you all will fly into when you visit please.) I got there earlier than I needed to, but given the fact that Italy time is slower than America time and a protest outside the base had traffic at a standstill during the week I figured it was best to have the cab pick me up early. Arriving closer to 3 hours early, rather than the standard 2, I found myself at the place to be in Naples on a Saturday morning. People dressed to impress slowly toted suitcases behind them, stopping every few groups of people to chat. I got a few funny looks in my jeans, running, shoes and tank top but since I was leaving the continent I think my outfit was appropriate AND let's face it- I don't have a ton of options! 

As I sat waiting (and then waiting some more since we were delayed) I felt like I was sitting along the runway of a fashion show. Seriously. If I could name it- it would be dubbed "Shoes on Parade." There were sandals of every kind, heels that make it nearly impossible for their wears to walk faster than the pace of a 2 year old, and so many different bags/purses I found myself longing to go purse shopping. By the way- nothing screams American more in my opinion than wearing your backpack through the terminal. Did I do it? You bet I did with my lucky 4 leaf clover pin and Maasai beaded key chain.

Since the flight was delayed I was able to witness the Italian approach to lines first hand. Well, I mean to say "continue my observations on the lack of line etiquette." Eh, who am I kidding? If there aren't ropes for the line it's not a line...it's an amobea shaped glob with various arms feeding into the main mass. It was amazing. What killed me was the fact that we all were ticketed passengers WITH ASSIGNED SEATS! I ended up making friends with Daniel and Lara- headed to New York as well. Their accents gave them away before I even started talking with the older couple who just ended a vacation along the Almafi Coast. Daniel and I were standing next to each other for some time and he was shocked to hear I not only spoke English but that I was from California...and I thought my backpack gave me away.

This brings up a very fun game I like to play when traveling called- I'm not going to talk in length but I want you to guess where I'm from. (Yep Nina, this game did start with our Irish friend in England that summer...gotta love the guy for trying!)

We eventually had our plane roll up to the gate and we walked out (just like Monterey just way more planes!) and loaded on up. I slept the entire 35 minute flight, woke up, and dealt with the next airport (Rome) starting with cramming the entire plane on 2 busses. It cracks me up. There really is a lack of personal space in the Italian culture. Paired with the need to be super close to the exit and what you've got is a blocked entry way onto the subway/bus/tram. The time spent waiting for everyone to clear the doors would be easily saved if everyone would just take 2-3 more steps away from the exit. Yeah, yeah, yeah....I know it's the American speaking crying out for some more order and a logical solution to save a few seconds.

The Rome airport is large and set up like a shopping mall. Not your typical mall, more like an outlet mall where it's like a gallery. The sitting areas near the gates accomodate close to no one and heaven forbid seating areas are not in areas by the gates. (Again, back to the need to be as close as possible to their destination. They can do what they want, but I've got two legs and don't mind using them.) After some window shopping and walking laps to keep the knee from hating me tomorrow it was time to once again collect data on the line amoeba. It was even worse with this line...but whatever. I'm not going to fight it so I may as well go with it and push my way up to the front eventually. Side note- the people work at the Rome airport are beautiful. Well, the guys were- I wasn't really checking out the women.

Once on the plane I was next to two siblings. They were hilarious. I felt bad that I didn't switch seats with one of their friends, but it was on an aisle and I wanted to see outside my window. After that we kept chating- it was fun. They had just spent 10 days in Italy and were fascinated by the fact that I had just moved to Italy. The girl who was about to start her first year of college was thrilled to hear that I'm a CP grad since her boyfriend starts in the fall. Her slightly younger brother kept us both entertained by his food critiques. Which reminds me. Why does lasagna served on an Italian flight take like a potpie and haven peas in it? Yeah, I was confused just like you are now. 

The highlight of this segment was on our decent to New York after they cut off our video options and new blurbs in Italian appeared on the main screens. They kept showing them in Italian so we'd guess what they were saying and then test our translation skills when the English version appeared. We failed miserably on the heat advisory warning for certain regions and wanted to read just what Obama did in regards to Sudan. We never figured it out since they didn't want to show us the English version. The guy thought it said he played oboe. Yeah, I think it had to do more with politics but now 24 hours later, I can't even thing what our reasonable answer was. Even winding through the custom lines we tried to read the ticker on CNN to see if it said anything but it didn't. Hey, we'd been stuck on a plane for almost 8 hours...don't judge!

Going through customs at JFK I was immediately transported back to March when I was doing the same thing with all you CI tour folks. While waiting for my suitcase  I enjoyed the memories in my head. When I found out that I was headed up to Terminal 2 I smiled...it's where I had already spent several hours of my life this year and found my same spots to sit and wait. (Allegra you were missed...it's no fun waiting by yourself!) 

The gate that I needed to be at had about 4 other flights departing at the same time and mine was the last to load. Once on the itty bitty plane, we hung out on the tarmac for a while. Not sure how long since I was passed out as soon as they turned off the lights until they announced we were approaching Norfolk.

My suitcase arrived and I had Ravi's cousin, Cori waiting in the lot so I could once again feel the freedom that a car often brings. GPS locked in, country tunes on the radio, and AC cranked up I finally made it to the hotel where the nicest English speaking man checked me in. Only problem? My body thought it really was 7am. How I'm not sure but as soon as I hoped in bed I passed out...until 7am local time. 

It's strange. I feel like I'm home yet I've never been here before. The fact that I'm surrounded by friendly, English speakers just rocks. I'm here for a while so if you still haven't sent me suggestions for spending my off times, let me know soon please. For now I've got more exploring to do! Well, from the pool side.

They're Returning Me!

No, not really, but that's what it kind of feels like. I've been here for six weeks and I'm on my way to the airport, headed back to the US of A. Why? I've got people to meet and trainings to complete.

As previously mentioned, Virginia may not be exactly Italy but it's still a land full of adventures waiting to happen- especially when I've called in some fabulous friends to keep me company! Depending on how much I've got planned (shopping and ballgames) in my spare time, I may be off the grid for a while.

Yes. Kenya status.

Know that I'm safe- even if Steph and I already have a ton of shenanigans planned! Only be worried if Rebecca joins us and it's like we're all back in Monterey last summer...jealous? You should be! Really you're not? Well then I should tell you that I also get to see Chrystal! Yep. VA is the place to be...while I'm there at least.

So anyway, this is your warning that a hiatus most likely will occur while I'm stateside. Take this time to study your Italian vocab, road signs, and think of more adventures for us to have.

-N. Cali Girl Out

Let's Talk...Road Signs!

If you've been following along with my adventures you probably read that I didn't pass my driver's license test the first time around. Yeah, not my finest moment especially after I learned yesterday that it spent the last 4 weeks sitting somewhere waiting for me to rescue it. No slaying dragons required, but a score of 48 correct questions out of 50 was.

Well, the phone call notifying me my car was in kicked my motivation up from "eh, I can't even drive right now" to "I need to rescue my car before going TDY" in a matter of minutes. With the computer shut off for a while I actually got a good study session in- amazing right?

I want to share some of these hilarious signs with you. I think I've already told you about some of these because I was laughing so hard when I saw them for the first time. (Yeah, I was jetlagged- so what?!) I want to hear your guesses for all of these signs- let's number them off, starting with the car driving off into the water and then making your way left to right, down the 3 rows. (So the tank looking one in the lower right is the last one, being #14.)

Have you seen enough? For the few of you already "fluent" in Italian road signs don't go showing off- okay? I know a few of you have some different names for these songs so feel free to share!  (Yes Alida, I'm talking about you.)

I'll leave you all to this test- I've got some prep to do before I take off tomorrow. (Packing would be one thing.) Good luck! And yes, I did pass today with a 100%! Unfortunately the computer system was down to actually register my car, but I have insurance that kicks in on the 22nd & know what my license plate number is so overall today was productive!

Life Without Ravi: the daily work commute

After the recent posting about chalking many things up to “I’m in Italy  now” I realized that it doesn’t give you the best explanation of what I’m actually experiencing out here on the day to day basis. For this reason, I’ve decided to talk you through my typical commute for work and just some of the sights that I see from my window, when I’m not trying to get a few more minutes of sleep or taking an afternoon nap.

Immediately outside the gate (since we never stop at the stop sign) the bus heads over Suicide Bridge. As if the name doesn’t give you an idea of just how narrow it is, let’s just say you really don’t want to meet the bus heading the opposite direction if you are in a car larger than a Fiat. If you’re a runner or biker- you better say your prayers and look for the best place to jump the rail as you head into the curve should you meet 2 cars traveling in opposite directions. Don’t worry- the vegetation is pretty lush right now so the landing wouldn’t hurt too much.

After merging onto the hi-way (which let me tell you, reminds me of driving in Salinas from time to time and I’m not even the one doing the driving) it’s pretty straight shot and little traffic since it’s 0615. Like I mentioned before, there are agricultural fields, some stores, and lots of half built buildings. The basically look like parking garages with the outer walls complete but all windows and doors left off. They started off to be (and maybe one day will become) houses or stores. I’m still not sure on the story of these- I’ve heard two reoccurring explanations. The first being that property taxes don’t have to be paid on buildings still under construction- which I’d believe considering the number of practically finished places I’ve seen with one random room still being built. The second explanation is that construction is happening without permits and the government (read Comorra AKA the mob...well maybe I'm killing the spelling/name but the Mob is what I'm going for here) are going in and shutting it down until payments are made. Again, completely plausible as where I’m living is pretty close to the highest known population of Comorra members.

There is one particularly open area of fields that I just love watching the sun light up in the morning as birds fly through the sky. Mount Vesuvius is among the topography in the backdrop and much closer, old brick/stone buildings are over grown with green vines. It is pretty- even the small amounts of liter along the road side seem to fade away.

Of course as we head closer to Naples the signs of a crowded city increase: road signs, commuters, stores, garbage, on ramps. The IKEA sign is my marker that we’re almost exiting to the sketchy part of the drive. I’ll still never forget driving in the first day, sleep deprived and all, thinking where in the world is this lady taking me and do I have my cell phone with me. Through making this drive practically daily, I now realize that it’s not so much scary as just industrial. Yes, the garbage does seem to find its way to this stretch of the road in great quantities, but it’s often off in a side street. The road we take goes under the hi-way and the cement pillars are plastered with various ads and posters. Billboards line the street and even the middle of the round abouts.

Two things make me smile when I see them on this stretch of road- two dogs. The first one is at the gas station- seriously, his dog house in tucked away by the office door. Most mornings he is sniffing around the property while his owner sweeps away debris near the gas pumps. The second dog is often spotted on a soccer field enclosed by a chain link fence, just sitting near the center basking in the sun. He has the option to explore the rest of the patio design store, but I guess he just likes the grass.

Time to take the turn down another alley with a crazy curve—but there is a mirror to look for oncoming traffic. After this last curve around a tall concrete wall, plastered with posters and a little graffiti thrown in for good measure we come across the dry cleaning man. I’m pretty sure his sign says his name is George and apparently he is the best. I’ve been told that he just takes clothes, cleans them, and then returns them to the proper person without ever taking down names or phone numbers. I know- sketchy right? Well, my coworker is among his customers and she’s had no issues.

So that’s the typical morning commute. From time to time though, like this morning, there are still things that make me do a double take after rubbing my eyes to make sure I really am seeing what I’m seeing. This morning I saw a horse pulling a middle aged man on a cart looking thing right before we turned down the last alley. Yep. A horse on a paved street. I’m telling you…a few more months here and nothing is going to surprise me anymore. 

Oh and yeah, Ravi did arrive just yesterday but for now, he's gotta stay in the lot. Why? I need to let the Italians know that he is here, get my insurance switched over, and pass that stupid test so they can hand me my license that is already made....apparently I'm in the 10% that doesn't pass the first time. Nope. Nothing is ever easy with me.