Sharing a few musings about Italy

Ciao! Just wanted to share a few musings I had regarding my recent trip to Italy with Dr. Rob and our dear friend, Rachel Harms.

First, is BEAUTY. It is known that Italians know how to appreciate the beauty of life and that is obvious when you are there! Everywhere, and I do mean that literally, you could find beauty. Every tiny detail in every nook and cranny is so beautiful its hard to take it all in. 

Besides the amazing art work that constantly surrounds you and the fabulous clothing worn by the stylish Italians, beauty is found in the most surprising places.  A little street, a door way, the steps to a front door … decorated with potted blooming flowers, and fresco’s on the walls … sigh.

My second observation is the ability of the Italians to SHARE. The streets, that seem rather small and cramped to us Americans, have barely enough room for two cars to pass one another, let alone allow for parking on the side of the streets, and forget about roomy side walks! But, this is no matter. The people ramble at a leisurely pace down the streets, moving over for the passing car or Vespa. The drivers patiently wait for tourists to snap a quick photo before stepping out of the way. Much different than the type of city driving seen in American cities.

My third and final note is SMALL PORTIONS.  As I mentioned before, Italians know how to appreciate all aspects of life and food is an important element of their culture.  The food and wine was marvelous and dinners lasted three hours.  Each course of food was just a little taste of each amazing dish … pasta first, then meat, cheese, and of course chocolate for dessert!  At first it seemed like a huge feast, but then I realized that we really hadn’t eaten that much.  What we had done was eat several courses of small amounts which probably didn’t even end up adding up the calories found in a Big Mac.  And with this unhurried way of dining we were able to savor each flavor, each drink, and of course the company of one another.

Claire Affleck
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