Fair Verona

October 29, 2006

We have heard from all the Milanese that October and November are always wet and cold, but this past week has been beautiful. From Wednesday on, it has been in the 70's and sunny. We are very grateful.

Ben and I are learning a lot about the Italian culture. One of things we have realized about the Milanese is that they complain a lot about their city. "It has terrible weather, there's too much pollution, it's very busy, the food isn't that good, etc." It's strange to hear people who have so many negative things to say about it, but still want to live here. Also, some Italians have told us that Italy is about 20 years behind the rest of world in most things. Everything is way too complicated and unorganized. For instance, Ben didn't get his book list for school until a week after school started and then only to find out that all the students have order the books and wait a week until they arrive. Of course this kind of thing makes us go crazy, but I guess we'll have to deal. Otherwise, Ben is liking school a lot. He is enjoying getting to know his classmates, who are from all over the world.

This past week my job teaching, we had halloween parties, which was bizarre. The kids and other teachers had no idea what halloween is supposed to be. (Not that they should, they don't have it here). So I had to remember what games are played at halloween parties and made up some lame ones. I am not enjoying my job at all, the school has no curriculum or resources and it is very frustrating. The trial period for the kids is up, so we'll see what happens. I have been taking ballet a lot and liking the place I go. The other dancers are good and it is challenging.

So, as you see, we went to Verona yesterday. It is a wonderful city. The weather was perfect and all the leaves were falling. The arena (similar to the Coliseum) and all the old churches and buildings were fantastic. We love stuff like that. There are, of course, tons of shops and all the best designers. It doesn't matter how small the town is, it always has Gucci, Prada, Fendi, etc.

We went to La Case di Guiletta (Juliet's house) It has a statue of her which everyone takes a picture with while holding her boob. I think it's supposed to be good luck. The balcony is there as well and all these walls covered in love notes that people have written over the years. (see pic at top).

I definitely love traveling around more than being in Milan, but I'm really excited for Ben and his schooling. I think he's going to excel at all that he learns.