Lately, it has really been hitting me hard that we won't always be living in Italy. I have grown to love this quirky place, and I think I would stay over here forever if I could. I've decided to write down all of the things I'll miss about living here, so that the memories of our time spent in this place will last longer. My list is constantly growing and being edited, but I figured I would start documenting now so that I will have plenty of time to be reminded of all the wonderful things about our first home.
1. Famiglia. How annoying it was when we first arrived that nothing was open when it was "supposed" to be. Stores were closed on Sunday. They were closed in the middle of the afternoon. They were closed because...well, who knew? They were just closed. When was I supposed to get anything done? But then it hit me. They close so that they can spend time with their families. Reposo, or the afternoon break, is typically spent at home, with family. Sundays are for nothing more than eating long meals together, going on walks, and watching your children run around in the square. No one is in a hurry to get anywhere. I can't explain how different the concept of family is here. They just enjoy being with each other. And to put it simply, it warms my heart.
2. Those awkward "I don't understand you" moments. At first, I hated going out in fear that someone would try to talk to me and I wouldn't understand them. It was overwhelming. Then suddenly, I realized I just didn't care too much anymore. I started learning my way around situations and my sign language improved significantly. Although still unable to speak it well at all, I started understanding the language more and more. On our way home from the dog park the other day, I had the most pleasant encounter with two older women. We fumbled our way through a 10 minute conversation and all parted ways smiling. That's when it hit me. In America, I'll understand everyone. I know it sounds crazy, but I'm really going to miss overcoming the language barriers. There is something so raw and real about those encounters. Sure, they still leave me flustered, but it's a feeling I've grown to embrace, and one I'll oddly long for.
3. Italian driving. Another source of what I thought was insurmountable anxiety. I didn't think I could ever drive a stick shift in Italy. Ever. Then one day (and with the help of a deployment) I just had to DO it. While roundabouts used to leave me shaking in my boots, they are now a small bit of excitement in my day. The thing is, everyone says "European driving is CRAZY", and they're right, it is...but I also think it's better. People actually understand their cars here. They know how fast they go, how quick they stop, and how close they turn. Even though the rules of the road are more like suggestions, there is a mutual respect for others and it works out well (most of the time).
I know I'll be excited about the next adventure that awaits us, but it will be difficult to bring this chapter to a close. We've been so lucky to live this crazy life. I can't wait to keep adding to the list of all the wonderful things I'll miss about this place.
Ciao for now!
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