Simply Grateful!

This weekend was one of those weekends where everything takes your breath away. Where you feel so GRATEFUL for everything and everyone you encounter. This Friday felt much more like the week than a weekend. Knowing I had to work on Saturday, I hit the sack early. Saturday we had plans to have some family friends over for dinner so Matilde and I spent the afternoon preparing the house for company. As to be expected, we had a FEAST. Tiziano asked me the night before if I wanted to help cook, and naturally my answer was "of course!! I would love to be your assistant/sous chef" and he said "no, no, you would be more than an assistant this weekend. You get your own recipe!" I was thrilled. My recipe turned out to be gamberi! Massive prawns (served raw) dressed with lemon zest, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, covered with aneto and set in the fridge to chill until dinner time. They were fantastic! I got a round of applause at dinner and was so happy - of course Tiziano helped me out with everything so he deserved the applause, but I soaked it up anyway. We had 5 courses in all. Mine was the first course, then two more of pesce carpaccio. The fourth was like a seafood pot-pie. I will post pictures as soon as I upload them to my comp. The fifth was panna cotta with chocolate ganache- in the words of Ina , "how bad could that be?" It was slap yo mamma good.

Sunday we all woke to freezing temperatures and heavy rain. I made a point on Friday to attend mass at a nearby church after I had a pleasant encounter with the priest. I had wandered in San Pietro to light a candle and ended up having my first Italian conversation!! I know this sounds like something I shouldn't be too excited about, after all I have been here for two months.. but normally I would say 'I don't speak Italian,' but this time I bit the bullet and gave it my best shot, and the outcome was more than wonderful. The priest (Pastore Ghiani) invited me to come back on Sunday, so that's exactly what I did. After mass I came back to the house and had the laziest day since I have been here. It was so great to lounge around the house in my PJs. That night we had "leftovers" but that term is used verrrry loosely. In reality, we didn't cook all of the fish that we had bought for supper Saturday night, so Tiziano used the remaining fish for three new (and absolutely fantastic) recipes. The first was a bruschetta, the second was calamari with a lemon and olive oil dressing, and the third was linguini with mussels and tomatoes. I am obviously doing a horrific job of describing the food, but that's the thing, it really is indescribable. I guess there goes my dream job as a food critic!

BUT the absolute crowning moment of this weekend of gratitude was this evening. Marina went out of town on business, so me, Tiziano, and Matilde went to the nearby town of Casina, where Tizian's parents live, to have dinner. His mother, Valeria, was going to cook us dinner and show us how to make her mother's 'ancient' recipe for a traditional Christmas cake. The measurements are literally in 'ladles;' 11 ladles of water, etc. It called for sugar, so much sugar...., cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, pignoli, toasted bread crumbs, walnuts, raisins, and a few other ingredients that I feel should be kept secret :) Once all of these are combined, they sit in a cool dark place for TWENTY DAYS. I don't know much about what happens after those days, but I know the cake takes work up until Christmas day when you are finally allowed to eat it- so much for cake out of a box! Nonna Valeria prepared us gnocco fritto and I about died when I had my first bite. They are pieces of fried dough that puff up and get golden brown. You put a piece of proscutto between two pieces and eat like a little sandwich. They are simply unbelievable. We made some to take home with us. Valeria even let me roll our some of the dough with her pasta maker for us to fry and take home. I could not believe that I was allowed on this trip! I just wanted to thank them over and over for letting me be a part of something so special. It blows my mind how incredible it is that I can partake in these outings like one of the family. Mati and I have been cutting up non-stop it seems lately, and I have been hearing the parents commenting "le sorelle" which puts the biggest smile on my face even thinking about it. Grateful is the only word I can think of at this time to explain how I feel, and to explain this entire experience. Simply Grateful!

Nonne

A freezing Saturday in Reggio. I could barely bring myself to get out from under the covers this morning. Even though the sun was shining, the house was so quiet and the thought of getting out of my robe seem ludicrous, so I caught up on some laundry and stayed in my PJs until noon. It was faaaaaantastic!

This weekend is my working weekend. Tiziano and Marina do business in Milano one Saturday every month and I am needed at the house for Matilde. She has school on Saturday's so I make sure lunch is ready when she comes home. After lunch with Matilde (ravioli, the go-to favorite) we settled down to watch Mamma Mia. I assumed Tiziano would come home tomorrow, and I knew that he was bringing Marina's parents with him, but I was way wrong. They got here about two hours ago! Nonna Anna is an Italian firecracker. She is so nice and has been speaking to me in Italian (she speaks no English) nonstop and I can actually understand most of it! Well, at least the gist of things. I think she is going to completely take over during her stay with us- 3 weeks! Nonno is so precious- a dark, sweet Italian man (as I feel like most are). Sophie has been going crazy since they arrived! We are all having kabobs for dinner tonight, yum. After dinner I am going to meet another au pair in town- Sammie from B.C.! It will be nice to get out at night as well as meet a girl my age who is sharing some of the same experiences as me. I will post pics as soon as I can remember to take them! CiaoCiao

Summer to Winter Overnight

I woke up this morning to run some errands only to find that the days of sun and skin are long over. Literally overnight the temperature dropped 30 degrees. If it were 8 degrees less it could snow. Woah. It is already time to retire open toed shoes, anything that doesn't come down to your knuckles, and especially exposed stems. Like back at home, there is a too brief transition period of ideal weather, but I am welcoming the cold with open arms!

It is strange to think I have been here for four weeks! If this were study abroad, I would be getting ready to pack my bags to come back home in a week. Instead, I am sitting in an Italian bank signing over my inheritance for safekeeping. Some mornings I wake up feeling bombarded with chores and errands, and sometimes I wonder what to do with all of my free time. This week is definitely a busy one, with thanks to Marianne at Camelot club. My mornings are slowly but surely filling up with pilates classes and Kinesis appointments.

I am so looking forward to next weekend! Molly wants to celebrate her birthday in Florence, so we will visit Meredith and do some of our favorite things in one of our favorite cities on earth. Hopefully a long dinner at La Giostra and possibly a visit up to Via San Michele for a Bellini! I will post again with pictures from the trip!

Recent Adventures

So the other day as I left the apartment to venture down my favorite street hoping to discover something new and beautiful, I was stopped dead in my tracks. I SWEAR I smelt Krystal. Yes, Krystal burgers. My tummy is rumbling just thinking about it. Of course, it wasn't Krystal and the smell passed within seconds, but I have been doing so much of this "recognition stuff" lately. Every day I swear I see people I know- one day it's Kat Boyd, the other it's Ben Lowenthall. My brain is in overdrive trying to spot the familiar. Obviously I know it isn't them but it's funny to me every time it happens. So warning: if I am home and don't say hey to you on the street- it means I still think you are a figment of my imagination.

Lately I have been spending a lot of time thinking about how to spend my free time. I have traveled down the main roads countless times but know it's time to explore some unfamiliar places. There is nothing better than feeling like you have seen the whole town, only to come upon a new piazza or a new cute cafe you would like to try. It amazes me how every time I set out to wander without expectation, I am continuously blown away. I hope I will never stop exploring and discovering. The other day I was in one of those 'not expecting to find anything new' moods, but I still let myself 'get lost' in the town. Reggio isn't that small, but it's just comfortable enough that you know how to find your way home from any point, and if you continue to wander you'll usually see something familiar within 15 minutes. So as I was focused on taking the road less traveled, I stumbled upon the most beautiful piazza- one that I had never expected to see. It was on a Tuesday, the day where vendors set up shop in all of the piazzas in town. And it was SO lovely. I had to resist buying all of the gorgeous fresh flowers that were available, but next time I'm going for it- maybe make Grandmother Meme proud and press some!

Speaking of Meme (for all of the Pollock's) I have the most interesting story. Yesterday I went to check out this "gym" (more of a spa with exercise equipment). They introduced me to the pilates trainer who was from Scotland. She was beyond nice to me - invited me to sit with her, have some herbal tea and 'have a chat.' I told her that I was new in town and would be here for about 9 months and she said she did the same thing in Paris when she was my age. Anyway, I told her that my family was from Scotland and that our family name was Beattie. She stared at me with disbelief, "my grandmother was a Beattie!", she said. I was so excited! We need to get Nana on the geneology to do some research. She said she had never known of another Beattie clan, so maybe we are distant relatives?? We ended up chatting for some time and she gave me her contact information and told me to call with anything at all and also invited me to go for pizza some time next week. Like I said, extremely wonderful and kind.

Today I woke up, cleaned up the breakfast table, and then set out with plans to explore and then end up in the park to read- but of course that isn't what happened :) I am finding that nothing ever goes to plan- one of my "lessons" from this trip is how to "roll with the punches" but I will get to that later.

I took another new road that introduced me to some lovely restaurants I would like to try, as well as some cute shops where I won't be able to purchase anything, but it's still fun to window shop. I found the piazza that I had discovered the other day, Piazza Fontanesi, and then kept walking until I found my way to a main street- Via Farini- currently one of my favorite city streets because of this incredible bookstore, a fantastic vintage shop that I visit almost daily (currently for inspiration only- I swear it's the Italian mini-Agora, Airee would be proud), some amazing cafes, and last but definitely not least, the public library.

Every day I try to push myself to do something I am timid to do, things that are so small, but to a foreigner it feels like pulling teeth. For example, walking into a crowded cute and swanky cafe, ordering a cappuccino and a pastry in Italian, and then wondering how much it will be, trying to translate the amount, and the fishing out the euro coins out of my wallet and not knowing where to put them- on the counter? in their hand? or in the silver dish? It's different everywhere you go. Where should I drink- at the bar? at the back counter? at a table? It's hard to act cool and collected when you seriously don't have a clue! But I love that I am continuing to laugh at myself so much, rather than stress- another one of my big "lessons." So today I accomplished two of my 'small goals.' Killing two birds with one stone, the challenge and the reward, I ordered a cappuccino and a cornetto (an Italain croissant that is to die for). It was absolutely delicious! After that, I felt so inspired that I decided to give the library a try. I have been once before and attempted to find the Inglese section to no avail, but today I tried again, and succeeded! I am not lying when I say this, my eyes welled up with tears when I was shown to the single isle of English books. The shelves were stocked with delicacies like Jane Austen, Dickens, Hemingway, Steinbeck, and Bronte, but they also offered some breathing room with guilty pleasures like Pat Conroy, James Patterson, Danielle Steele, and Agatha Christie (AAR anyone?). I was filled to the brim with happiness! I don't know what it is about books, but just one look at them and I get the warm fuzzies. And THEN I almost fainted when I saw they had Harry Potter in every language. Maybe I can check out English and Italian to compare and help me with my Italiano. I also thought about checking out an Italian baby book, talk about basic. But I had to resist. I need to finish my Dan Brown- no more double fisting with the written word.

Has it been one day or one year?

This morning I woke up to the beautiful sun coming through my double-doors/window in my cozy nook. Sometimes I'm amazed to remember I am in Italy, and some mornings it feels as if I have been here my entire life. But regardless, I always feel like I was meant for this. I have always felt a pull towards Italy- I can remember the first time we were personally introduced- and I can remember feeling like I was home. I am curious to see how I will feel towards this incredible country by the end of my one year stint- will I be satisfied or will I have developed an insatiable appetite for everything Italian?

After I made up my bed and got ready for the day, I made myself an espresso and ate a banana. I took care of some ironing and then set out for a morning jog! The other day I discovered a charming side street and decided to give it a try.

The weather was perfect, probably around 65 degrees. I was only gone for about 30 minutes but it was just enough to get some fresh air and get motivated for the day. As I was running back to the apartment I almost ran smack dab into a nonno (grandfather)- he was picking something off of the ground. I stopped and looked down at what he was examining- and I had to laugh out loud. It was a buckeye! A chestnut like nut that is (or at least my [real] family believes) a symbol of good luck. Dad had found one in Florence while we were there and gave it to me right before he left for home- I kept it and put it in a "finding box." They remind me so much of my grandparents. So of course I had to take a couple. Story has it that once they crack open, the luck will come. I'll be keeping them in the sun to induce cracking :)

Below is a picture of "my family" in Reggio! The mom, Marina, is such a beautiful Italian woman! I already feel like a part of their family- they are so welcoming and treat me in no way like a stranger. Tiziano, the dad, is such a treat! and also an incredible chef- I have so much to learn in that department, it will need a post of its own to explain. Matilde is 12, and will turn 13 in October. It is an interesting age to say the least. She "dislikes" English, especially speaking it, so my main priority at the moment is expanding my Italian vocabulary. Yesterday Marina left for Milan on business and so we were at home alone, I was in the kitchen ironing, and she came in and said "I need to go out for something" in ENGLISH! This is huge. Normally, she would ask in Italian and point to the door, but she spoke to me- I feel like what I imagine a proud parent would feel. And it doesn't end there. After we got back from the errand, she came into my room and asked me what pizza I wanted for dinner (in English). A little later I came to her and asked if she wanted to watch a movie after dinner (HSM 3 OF COURSE!) She said "I don't have that one" but she was so excited, we both were. After a while I was on the couch and she walked upstairs to her room, came back down and handed me HSM 1 and 2 and asked me to pick the one I wanted to see. Her dad suggested to her that we go over some English in her English workbook after dinner, but I told her we could just watch the movie in English and that would he her "homework" for the day (this has been approved by Marina). She was so relieved to say the least. I know it sounds so silly to get so elated about these things but they really are huge strides!

This one is for mom: an Emma dog in Reggio!!! I squealed when I saw him. I tied to pet him but I don't think he liked that very much... But he was there just long enough for me to snap his photo.

More delicacies from Florence:

At Home in Reggio

Dad and I arrived in Reggio nell'Emilia Thursday morning around 10 am. Tiziano met us at the airport with open arms and a van to pick us (and all of my bags) up from the Bologna airport. Of course we were checked at customs, but got through okay. The drive from Bologna to Reggio is so beautiful! Lots of rolling hills, farms, and cottages. Once we arrived in Reggio, the first order of business was to pick up Sophie from the groomers. Sophie is the cutest, sweetest, loveliest toy poodle in the world and I love her.

After we dropped of dad at his hotel we moved all of my things into my "room". It is much more like a hallway into the laundry room / my bathroom, but it is all the space I need and I feel extremely comfortable there. The home is beautiful and very open- white walls with splashes of color everywhere. That evening we had a fantastic dinner with the whole family.

Tiziano is a wonderful cook and specializes in fish. We had smoked salmon first, followed by two courses of tartar, and finished with a potato, zucchini, and rosemary soup with mussels. We finished off the meal with a shot of walnut liquor- sweet and yummy. After dinner we were both so tired that I was shown how to make up the bed and I passed right out!

Friday morning I woke up early and organized some things in my room. After a breakfast of Special K (with berries), soy milk, and green tea, Marina showed me my responsibilities around the house. Since Matilde is 12, and will be 13 in October, they consider my title "big sister and house manager." My responsibilities consist of making sure the house is in order and also being there for Matilde. I also get to prepare the meals! It may sounds intimidating, but it is not at all. They do not eat extravagant meals at home- the most basic food imaginable. Salad before dinner and lunch, and then either a protein or a carbohydrate- never both. Today I made salad with carrots, tomatoes, and radishes, and then ravioli with spinach. For dinner we will have salad and then eggs. I am going to have to get Matilde help me learn the ropes! She likes to cook too so that will be something fun we can do together.

After lunch dad and I walked around the town and took care of some errands. I walked with Matilde to the pool at 5 and went back to pick her up at 6:15. I think she goes two times a week. That night we went to a traditional restaurant with the family. It was so delicious (of course).

Saturday morning we woke up and took a train to Florence to see Meredith and Caroline! Meredith is living in Florence, and Caroline is in Rome. It was so great seeing them this weekend! It definitely started me out on the right foot. I was able to eat at my favorite restaurants in Florence that I discovered while studying abroad- Boccadama, Open Bar, and Hemingway- the most fantastic chocolate bar!

Sunday morning we went to the Duomo for mass and it was great! I was so happy that dad could experience that during his short visit to Italy. I am so happy that he was able to move me in to my new home for the next year! It made the transition much more pleasant, and I feel so comfortable here now. I love my little "nook".

That afternoon dad and I took a train to Bologna where we had to go our separate ways. I am going to miss him and mom so much but I am hoping they will be able to come visit in the spring! Thank you to all who have sent me e-mails!! They have been so incredible. It is always nice hearing from friends and family back home. Continue to stay in touch!

Ready or Not...

14 hours of travel, followed by 92 days in Reggio!

After weeks of [attempted] mental preparation, the journey finally begins. I am feeling much more confident and at ease than I had expected. I know that having Dad with me is a comfort that I don't even know the full extent of. At the moment we are flying to Charlotte- hello Brooks and William!- and then on to Frankfurt, Germany, and then finally on to Bologna where we will meet the Capelli family at the airport. We are still unsure of how we are getting to Reggio, about 40 minutes away- hoping it is by train and not a small compact- I'm not sure how it would fit both of us and all of my luggage (2 carry ons and 3 massive suitcases). I know I will be kicking myself for over-packing but I am my mothers daughter after all. It will be a miracle if all three bags make it to Italy.

Upon arriving to Hartfield Jackson, we encountered a lovely surprise! Adam was on his way to Peace Corps training before he officially left for Logo. It was so wonderful getting to spend time with him right before we both departed. Just thinking about him gives me courage to tackle my own adventure. I am so proud of him!