Rome,
Italy
Monday, March 31, 2008
Literally, EVERYTHING seems to take longer here. The days roll by so quickly because they are filled with little chores that somehow consume the day. Say, for instance, that one needs an item like clothes hangers. Where does one find them? All the stores and shops here are very specialized and typically carry a very limited selection of items. It is like searching for a needle in a haystack to locate such a specific item. Iīve been here for over a week and still canīt find hangers. It is such a joy to finally locate the shop that has items you may need! THEN the next task is trying to figure out when itīs open. The mid-day siesta time may last up to four hours depending on the store, and the closing hours differ from place to place. To add to the sense of mystery, if you didnīt make very clear notes of the exact location of a shop that you want to visit at a later time, it can get really confusing. During the closed hours, the shops have their doors (roll-up or other exterior) closed and all identifying information about the store is behind that door. The building is literally a faįade with multiple doors and you have no idea what lies behind.
I am definitely feeling a little more integrated here, although I am sure I stand out like a sore thumb amongst the Romans. As an Oregon girl, I am loving the weather right now, but when I think itīs warm enough for short sleeves and no jacket, they are wearing turtlenecks, scarves, and big down coats (yes, when itīs 70-ish degrees!). I am so impressed by these women who can walk in stiletto heels on cobblestones and not miss a beat. It is an amazing talent; believe me!
Iīve begun my morning run routine, which is nice. It is a lovely way to have some alone time, which is scarce in my situation...
