tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67139430718791421582024-02-19T21:22:19.820-05:00Catching TimeThings to Remember. Places to Go. People to See. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.comBlogger98125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-8050714577254292902016-03-25T12:25:00.001-04:002016-03-25T12:25:22.837-04:00Please Step Back and Allow the Doors to Close (A Year in the City)<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="215" src="http://wamu.org/sites/wamu.org/files/styles/headline_landscape/public/images/attach/05.18.12news-flickr-metro-doors-edit.jpg?itok=rYlWt1-6" width="400" /></div>
<br />
Well this one was interesting to say the least!<br />
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I'd like to preface this story by saying I TRIED to be early to work all week and fate was not having it...<br />
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Wednesday morning and I was riding high! I got my coffee on point, got the puppy situated and got ready in record time. Out the door to the Reston metro! It was like the seas parted and all traffic on 28 just disappeared. I ended up getting to the station 30 minutes early and got a prime parking spot. Little miracles, right?<br />
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So I get downtown to Metro Center and switch to the Red Line for the last two stops of my commute. I could practically smell the Panera bagels from here! We pile into the car and set off into the tunnel. Not too long in, the train came to a screeching halt, knocking us about.<br />
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For quite a while no one popped onto the loudspeaker. Finally, the female train operator in a calm but shaky tone said, "one of the doors on the train is not fully closed. If this is a door by you please help me close it so the train can move forward." Naturally, we all started looking around. I was a the far end of the second to last car. Behind me at the other end I can see a door partially open on the left side. And everyone was just staring at it like it was a roach on the wall. Silent horror. Yet, no one around it attempted to close it. Once again the operator came on asking for help closing the door. She didn't know which one it was. "This train cannot and will not move until all the doors are closed!"<br />
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Nothing happened. I debate pushing through the packed car to the door, but chicken out. I'd be the ONE person who tries to help and falls out onto the third rail, turning themselves into a human piece of bacon.<br />
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So after a few minutes of silence, I catch sight of the train operator. The poor woman was having to walk through the pile of people in each car, checking every. single. door on her way through. She finally gets into our car and heads for the failed door. It only took a minute or two for the small, robust woman to yank the door closed. I could hear passengers snicker about how ridiculous this was. Which of course made me want to haul back and slap them. It wasn't her fault that the cars are as old as the Concord's first flight (40 years, for those wondering). I now regret not trying to get to the door.<br />
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She sighed and moved back through each car. After a few more minutes we started moving again. The whole event took about 30 minutes. We crawl our way to Farragut North and as expected, the train was placed out of service and we all had to disembark.<br />
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Begrudgingly, we filed out and stood on the already crowded platform, waiting for the disabled train to limp away and the next one (full of people) to arrive, so we could fight for a spot.<br />
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It's at this point that I notice a younger guy who was in the car next to me sort of staring at me.<br />
<i>Internally: Oh great, he's fat gawking. Oh shit, are my boobs falling out? Nope. Do I have food on my face? I haven't eaten yet today. Oooh, bagels. WHY IS HE STARING?!</i><br />
Externally: "What a mess." I look away in hopes that he saw he was being a little creepy. Nope. Didn't work.<br />
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"Sooo... you going far?" he asked with a smile.<br />
"Nope. Just to the next station. Dupont."<br />
"Oh, well you look important. Do you work for a law firm?"<br />
"HA! Nope. Research organization," I snorted and looked back into the disabled car.<br />
<br />It's at this point that I see a guy shout "This is bullshit!" and run back into the disabled train car. Like he was actually going to go somewhere. I rolled my eyes. About two seconds later, Metro PD came and pulled the guy out. It's about this time, some older lady standing near them on the platform slumps down to the ground. She probably panicked with the stuff that happened in Brussels, and now some douchebag is making a scene while we are all trapped.<br />
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A few minutes later, a group of EMTs shows up, even though she is back on her feet and reassuring all that she was fine. During this time, Rico Suave' is still chatting me up. It's now that it dawns on me... "<i>Holy shit, he's hitting on me. NOW!?" </i><br />
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"I'm Javier by the way." He reaches for a handshake.<br />
<br />"Hi. Meg." I wave awkwardly and politely turn to the guy on my other side and say, "Does the metro board have any ETAs on it?" <i>Internally: SAVE ME DUDE! COME ON!</i><br />
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(This guy is cracking up over Javier's advances, by the way). "Not right now." He looks back down at his phone.<br />
<br />Failure. I sigh and turn back to the broken car, considering running in myself and getting escorted away by Metro PD. At least that's a simple way out of this.<br />
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He whips out his business card and in an attempted charismatic gesture, holds it up to me. With a grin, "Here's my card. You are very interesting to talk to. I'd love to keep in touch. Do you have a card?"<br />
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Again, snorting, "Nope. I have 5,000 at work but never any on me." I look away again.<br />
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"How about your number then?"<br />
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I crack up laughing. "HA! You are NOT getting my number dude. I don't know you like that." (a bold response coming from me).<br />
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It's at this point he whips out his phone and thrusts it into my hands. Add me on Facebook. You can search yourself." (Thanks homie, I know how social media works). "Oh, that's flattering but I have a boyfriend soo..."<br />
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"Oh, no worries, I just want to be your friend!"<br />
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<i>Internal eye roll*</i><br />
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I see that he's pulled up all the "Megs" on FB and I point to some random girl (sorry random Meg) and say, "There I am! Welp I'm going to walk, this is taking forever. Good luck getting to work!"<br />
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As I slink away he calls out "Do you want company?"<br />
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"Naw bud, I'm good."<br />
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I waddle my fat ass upstairs and outside ASAP.<br />
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So much for Panera. I frown. I wander into a CVS and get some food. When I leave to walk to work (now 45 minutes late), I see a wall of tourists just stopped in place on the sidewalk, staring at the road with phones and cameras in hand.<br />
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<i>Internally: Great, someone blew up the city. This is how we died. </i><br />
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I peer over the crowd and spot the Joe Biden parade. By this I mean it's a police motorcade of at least 12 cars/cycles, 4 black sedans, 3 black SUVs and a few straggling police cars. They were hauling ass back to the White House from Dupont. VP Joe probably wanted a donut from Krispy Kreme and took out the whole crew. Must be a fascinating sight for those not used to it. But I was late and needed people to move the FUCK OVER.<br />
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Happy Meg disappeared somewhere between Metro Center and Farragut, in the depths of DC Hell.<br />
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I finally sneak through the crowd of cherry blossom tourists and get to work. So now I can get the day started...<br />
<br />
-_-Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-46372413851050005292016-01-07T15:06:00.000-05:002016-01-07T15:06:12.714-05:002015: The Year of Change<div style="text-align: center;">
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As one who is wildly averse to change, I found 2015 to be refreshing and positive overall... and it was chock full of change!<br />
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So as I sit here, I wanted to take a moment to review what's happened and what is ahead.<br />
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The winter of 2015 saw a very stressed Meg. It was the final stretch of my dissertation before defending on April 2nd. At the same time I started house hunting and job hunting. There were many sleepless nights of writing, looking on Zillow and Higher Ed Jobs.com and crying over the uncertainty. I did over 30 interviews and filled out over 100 applications.<br />
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But it paid off. I successfully defended before the deadline for Spring.<br />
The girls in the office at GMU had a surprise celebration for me after the defense. I didn't want ANYONE to come to the defense itself, for fear of looking foolish. But I welcomed the well wishes (and chocolate cake) after. :) And then there was the job hunting still looming over me...<br />
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May 16th, I officially became Dr. Megan Tucker. BOOM! I got hooded by my advisor, Dr. Todd Rose, in front of my Dad, Mom, Rob and Val, and my best friend, Kristen. I cried. It was a whole thing. But I made it to my goal, which was to have my PhD before my 30th birthday. There was no other motivation behind that date, then to push me to not wait or take too long to finish. It worked.<br />
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June 1st, I started my new job at the National Communication Association in Washington, D.C. I am the project manager for the Learning Outcomes in Communication research until September, 2016. It's a bummer that it's only a temporary position, but my God, what an opportunity!!! Plus I get to work with LaKesha. We share an office, so the hilarity ensues. ;) I couldn't say no to it. I still teach part-time at GMU and NVCC, because Lord knows I can't go a semester without teaching! That would be ridiculous.<br />
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And I got to see my two favorite bands on tour again: Breaking Benjamin and Shinedown. And it was magical :)<br />
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August 2nd, Joe moved!! It happened my friends. It took 5 years, but the stars finally aligned and Joe moved in with us. Being crammed in the apartment with three grown people was a rough way to start it all off, but he took it well and the growing pains subsided pretty quickly. Plus we were about to upgrade...</div>
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August 24th, I turned 30. Yup. It happened. I'm old now. All my joints ache all the time. But, it was a wonderful day and SO many friends came to celebrate!!!<br />
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August 28th, I closed on a house. I KNOW, RIGHT!? I bought a house! Well... dad helped me a LOT. In fact, most of the down payment was early inheritance from him, so without him I'd still be in an apartment. But nonetheless, I am now a homeowner of a 2,000sq/ft townhouse in Centreville. It's not perfect, but it is wonderful, and a good project for me as a first time homeowner. I am quickly learning all of the intricacies of owning over renting, and what responsibilities come with it. But every evening after work, when I pull into my parking spot, I am still shocked that it's mine. I want to keep it looking nice, so I've also started throwing things away (a big deal for a pack rat), and trying to "adultify" my furnishings. It's a slow process, but I'm getting there.<br />
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September 1st, was my last day as an advisor at GMU. This was one of the bleak spots of the year. I truly miss advising. Hell, I miss spending all day at Mason with the girls. -_- Don't get me wrong, I love my new job and the pay that comes with it, but it definitely was a big change. If I could be an advisor again I would jump at the chance. It was so fulfilling! I miss you Cathy, Maria, Lisa, Britt and work studies!!!!<br />
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November was a big travel month because of the convention for NCA in Vegas. So I got to finally spend some time there and see Sin City from more than just an airplane window. But better than that was that LaKesha, Kris and I rented a car and drove to Arizona to see the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam! Two bucket list items checked off! And it was breathtaking... and breathtakingly cold. But super worth it. Also, I got to host my first Thanksgiving at my house a week later! Mom flew up from Florida, and Care, Jamey and Vicki drove down from Pennsylvania. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJZ07RCzIQQXL4q7hQVR7RemcVoZBMf0fF5h2YcpwDa2CgiXYlS_IzQUsH0jIJ_J7dUu8G20_flotDawxiUpp5qNfk9uM_RIeVsGjHel-N4TQq2LewsuKvs1WJKTj2uAx5xyx7z8k5tbt/s1600/12274447_10100544287879839_4512942745309023105_n.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJZ07RCzIQQXL4q7hQVR7RemcVoZBMf0fF5h2YcpwDa2CgiXYlS_IzQUsH0jIJ_J7dUu8G20_flotDawxiUpp5qNfk9uM_RIeVsGjHel-N4TQq2LewsuKvs1WJKTj2uAx5xyx7z8k5tbt/s320/12274447_10100544287879839_4512942745309023105_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFGUFL2H-jD_O6xVOIPMThiEdg-h-cRqNGnOkVoYDovrUXVAlCPLS2uzW1wrwg5tuZ3LcvIVkPy-sSdVjXy1HMReusPd8-xpBgGBqxJrVZUr569Cc4v8Ooys8nK1REuGJe8p-4-fvyVH3/s1600/12244295_10100545280984649_4015332516421509346_o.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFGUFL2H-jD_O6xVOIPMThiEdg-h-cRqNGnOkVoYDovrUXVAlCPLS2uzW1wrwg5tuZ3LcvIVkPy-sSdVjXy1HMReusPd8-xpBgGBqxJrVZUr569Cc4v8Ooys8nK1REuGJe8p-4-fvyVH3/s320/12244295_10100545280984649_4015332516421509346_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
December 2015, I not only saw Kristen get hooded for her PhD, but I also got to spend a lot of time with family. I was lucky enough to see Mom, Dad, Joe and Care over the holiday, where usually I'd have to choose who to see and who to apologize to.<br />
<br />
To cap off the year I got to spend New Year's Eve with Joe, Mom, Cathy and John. We played games until the ball dropped and set off firecrackers after midnight. And I FINALLY got a New Year's kiss. <3 nbsp="" p=""><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjluOPbPknSTlwm_abKJNioIfW7FxeBOIBFZ5LwkcCABjIqHGIS5h17-92kDcuR3B2XWZZddI7p_f1fdJtDWwFR-KEbS7Rw1mYRbjDyfBXjkSZ08fH-Y1lUTCUadS8YzOOgr9owVqhaa1Ze/s1600/1928881_10100564491127369_6419538986626906885_n.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjluOPbPknSTlwm_abKJNioIfW7FxeBOIBFZ5LwkcCABjIqHGIS5h17-92kDcuR3B2XWZZddI7p_f1fdJtDWwFR-KEbS7Rw1mYRbjDyfBXjkSZ08fH-Y1lUTCUadS8YzOOgr9owVqhaa1Ze/s320/1928881_10100564491127369_6419538986626906885_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So what's next? I want to spend this year improving myself. Specifically my financial health and my physical health. I need to save more and pay off debts. I want to be strict with my budget and keep improving the house. Also with any resolution, I want to lose some of this weight and start living healthier. I've always had the PhD as a crutch for not taking care of myself, and now there is no excuse. I need to get back to being energetic and proud of the way I look. Not perfect, but enough that I don't scoff at myself in the mirror every day. And of course, since my contract at NCA ends in September, I'm already back on the job market. So the hunt is on again... but this time I feel more confident.<br />
<br />
Cheers to 2016 my loves. And thank you for all the help along the way!<br />
<br />
Meg<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></3>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-67667382098289815272015-10-15T22:23:00.001-04:002015-10-15T22:24:18.540-04:00The "Pildo" Incident (A Year in the City)<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://www.orenstransitpage.com/otpdccars/dcalstomint.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></div>
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<i>Like a hotdog down a hallway? </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
Fair warning... this post gets a bit inappropriate. Not by anything I've done, but by what I've witnessed. So if you do not want to read something hilarious and immature, turn away now.<br />
<br />
.....<br />
<br />
<br />
Oh you're still here? Good!<br />
<br />
So this happened over the summer, but my writing habits are still slack, so I'm just getting to this now.<br />
<br />
LaKesha and I wandered back to the metro after a particularly exhausting day of work in DC. We chatted about my upcoming birthday (it was August) and the looming Fall term. I began talking to her about my teaching schedule when the following exchange occurred...<br />
<br />
Me: "I don't know if it'll work, but I don't want to lose this class"<br />
<br />
I look up the car a few rows and see a group of three young African American guys (probably late teens or early 20s MAX) laughing loudly and pulling some object out of what looked like a shoe box.<br />
<br />
Ignoring it, I went on...<br />
<br />
"301 is definitely my favorite class to teach so, OH MY GOD!"<br />
<br />
LaKesha raised her eyebrows. "Yes?"<br />
<br />
I squinted at the object in one of the boys hands. No. It can't be. There's no way.<br />
<br />
"L, do you see that? What that kid is holding and waving in the air? Hoooollly shit."<br />
<br />
"What ki... oh NO!" she snorted.<br />
<br />
It was... A. Male. Dildo.<br />
<br />
So let's stop right here for an education in the male dildo. For those of you unaware, a male dildo is often called a "fleshlight" due to its shape, or a "pildo" (I'll let you deduce that one on your own). These items look a bit like a male phallus, but the big difference is on the end is the model of female genitalia. And if you insert... something into it, it is "supposed" to feel ... similar. Aaannnnnnyyyyway.<br />
<br />
These three guys were waving this fleshlight around the metro car. One of them stuck his finger in the end and twirled it around in the air like a helicopter. Another kissed it. Yup. There. The other one just kept grabbing it and staring at the end as though he'd never seen the likeness of a vagina before (I'm guessing he hadn't).<br />
<br />
Then it got better. I noticed that in the seat behind the guys, was an elderly lady with a confused look on her face. The 80-something year old kept staring at the pile of beat meat. trying to figure out why they kept swinging it around and laughing. Then, L and I saw it dawn on her. The look of horror and confusion sweeping over her face was both sad and hilarious. The guys didn't care. They were oblivious to the rest of the car. Which made me crack up. Which made L crack up. Which made the guys briefly look up at us and then continue poking the piece of rubbery latex lady-meat.<br />
<br />
There we were. 3pm. On the metro. Staring at these boys holding a big, flesh-toned female-styled sex toy and waiting for the elderly passenger to have a heart attack and pass out.<br />
<br />
Must be Thursday.<br />
<br />
MegAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-74076203915045154712015-08-20T14:11:00.000-04:002015-08-20T14:11:41.045-04:00What's your Pleasure? (A Year in the City)<br />
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<br />
Food Trucks as far as the eye can see. Or at least for a block.<br />
<br />
During my morning commute on the metro, I'll pass a food truck heading for the DC line. I often wonder if they will end up at Farragut Square which is right by my usual metro stop.<br />
<br />
Even as early as 9:40a.m. they start to file in. The food trucks. All of us in a zombie-like trance riding the escalators up to the square can smell them before they come into view. A strange mixture of aromas assault the senses as we cross over I Street and begin down the walk of multicultural food-stuffs. Every day they are slightly different, but the schedule is the same.<br />
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"If only you were open. I would happily give you my money..."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqRUEhdLL_hyphenhyphennwoOEREl-xIW42tW9lOhorGgp_BfI74dTOnrkyLieCbKwJoiVsdyPCi05cYpT1UD2kIf0-iCe-c3pfoBGDFXN6gELUwm4Kq-KB_LLBtzHZqclhnGN2ryDw8UIT69eDerZx/s1600/P1010138-21-1024x767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqRUEhdLL_hyphenhyphennwoOEREl-xIW42tW9lOhorGgp_BfI74dTOnrkyLieCbKwJoiVsdyPCi05cYpT1UD2kIf0-iCe-c3pfoBGDFXN6gELUwm4Kq-KB_LLBtzHZqclhnGN2ryDw8UIT69eDerZx/s320/P1010138-21-1024x767.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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But alas, before 10:00a.m., none of the windows are open. Vendors are hanging signs and unpacking freezers of meat and condiments. They await the masses.<br />
<br />
Yet, something amazing always happens. They are their own little community within a community. I've seen on multiple occasions, a food truck owner get out of their truck and help guide another truck to parallel park in a spot. They will also help other trucks unpack and set up. Being that I still stereotype DC sometimes... I would have thought that they would feel the competition to sell their wares and not try to help one another. But I am happily mistaken!<br />
<br />
On rare occasion I will leave work early enough to witness the feeding frenzy that becomes Farragut Square during lunch. Seriously, have you seen a bunch of ducks being fed bread at a park pond? It's sort of like that. But the ducks have high heels and briefcases, and the bread is more like a taco-dumpling-empanada-fish sandwich type thing.<br />
<br />
The temptation to stay and get in line is great. But then someone undoubtedly will jolt me back to reality with a push or stepping right in my path. Yup. I want to go home. Maybe next time.<br />
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But this DC cultural phenomenon is a fleeting thing. If I leave after 3:00p.m. there is no longer a sign of life at the Square aside from those walking to the metro, and the regulars in the park. The food trucks and their delirious aromas of international cuisine have long since gone. And I'm left to trudge back towards Virginia with an empty stomach.<br />
<br />
Someday I will stop. Someday the timing will be right and I'll take part in the frenzy. But perhaps it is not today.<br />
<br />
MegAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-74713618666877751942015-08-11T14:36:00.000-04:002015-08-11T14:36:50.991-04:00Situation Metro... All F***ed Up (A Year in the City)<br />
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Poor, poor WMTA. The Metro has been having quite a rough couple of years. Crashes, power outages, fires, smoke inhalation death, poor management, broken 40 year old trains, snakes (WTF) and the ever present elevator outages.<br />
<br />
And then there's the random derailments that can happen. Yup. Derailments.<br />
<br />
So here's the gist of what happened last Wednesday:<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-top: 12px; padding: 0px;">
<i>A non-passenger train derailed at the Smithsonian Metro station Thursday caused major disruptions and delays for riders.</i></div>
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<i>At 5:20 a.m., three cars of the 6-car train derailed at a switch point inside the station's tunnel. The train was being readied for service, so no passengers were on-board at the time of the derailment. There were no injuries, however, some damage was reported along the track.</i></div>
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<i>Crowds of passengers spilled out onto the streets as a result as they had to navigate a patchwork of shuttle buses to get to their destination.</i></div>
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<i>The derailment caused the Smithsonian and Federal Triangle stations to close and rail service on the Blue and Orange lines was suspended between the Federal Center SW and McPherson Square stations.</i></div>
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<i>By late afternoon, two of the derailed railcars were re-railed and allowed Metro to restore partial service on the Blue and Orange lines.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiahJC4B-nBfiFKDo6t40B2bVY2exLEg_pdBjc3WoTQeyA6R_jfFSlVMM1ywtrM4YRO4iS4CrsxNgHHzo6QVx46FLzV2UZqSUMWhzBS9bweEn8ZKtEbRHX5gxUaBsOvrS012ZZnbPXEWQQC/s1600/635745221644506675-MetroRailRepair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiahJC4B-nBfiFKDo6t40B2bVY2exLEg_pdBjc3WoTQeyA6R_jfFSlVMM1ywtrM4YRO4iS4CrsxNgHHzo6QVx46FLzV2UZqSUMWhzBS9bweEn8ZKtEbRHX5gxUaBsOvrS012ZZnbPXEWQQC/s320/635745221644506675-MetroRailRepair.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>At 8 p.m., the Federal Triangle and Smithsonian stations reopened for service. Single tracking was occurring on the Blue and Orange lines. (Courtesy of MyFoxDC.com)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMtaYryuQ0Mbx9qSF7hyphenhyphenSTdMXKpOGFIUthFLN0mI1Mi00RYF_dCRZgu8UJuHgXEIO2dnxPHhKM2Q2096QWBSgcuR333zHqBkm1tzFH8zVF0cMdMYhxsHNJBqk9QHsTK25LxaSfYbxnn0W/s1600/silver+line449A1383623892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMtaYryuQ0Mbx9qSF7hyphenhyphenSTdMXKpOGFIUthFLN0mI1Mi00RYF_dCRZgu8UJuHgXEIO2dnxPHhKM2Q2096QWBSgcuR333zHqBkm1tzFH8zVF0cMdMYhxsHNJBqk9QHsTK25LxaSfYbxnn0W/s320/silver+line449A1383623892.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So that was a little treat for everyone. I ended up being lucky. I got on my normal Silver line train with the expectation of changing trains at East Falls Church (to the Orange line) as they were requiring. </div>
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We filed out silently to an already large crowd on the platform, waiting for the next Orange line train to help shuttle our super late asses to the city. </div>
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Then something amazing happened. A Metro worker yelled out, <i>Get back on folks. This is the ONLY Silver line train with approval to continue to McPherson Square</i> (in the city). I glanced up at the Silver line sign on the train which flickered once and then listed "Special." Hell yeah we were! We got the golden (or in this case, silver) ticket to the city. We shuffled back onto the train car and turned it into a clown car... DC edition. There were people crowding into the cars, causing the train to tip slightly to the left from the excess of weight. We were low-riding it into the city. It still took well over two hours to get to work when it was all said and done, but the confusion was brought to a minimum. </div>
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I exhaled when the train trudged up to Farragut. I made it with one stop to go before they shut down access for the derailment. All the same, the city was scurrying like a chicken with its head cut off. People were piling into buses that were stacked outside of the metro. Other commuters like myself, filled the streets and sidewalks in hopes of hailing a cab or walking to their final destinations. </div>
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Leaving work was no better. We were still single-tracked out of the city, so LaKesha and I smushed in with others attempting to head back to Virginia and waited 20 minutes to switch back to the Silver Line. It took almost 3 hours to get home and I had to change my final exam in Woodbridge to virtual... there would have been no way for me to make it in time. </div>
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So instead of everything going back to normal by Thursday... there was a power outage. Single tracking again. Yay for the Silver-liners! Of course there are growing pains and I think WMTA knows it. They're being kind enough to refund our fares for that day. And thankfully the cars are now out of the tunnels and things are back to "normal." Even more thankfully, the metro conductor of that train is unharmed, and it was a non-passenger train, so no one else was on board to be injured. But it's just one more event in a series of unfortunate incidents for DC Metro as of late.</div>
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Also, why does it take that long to fix an elevator? </div>
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Also, also, why don't we have THESE cars (the 8000 series) on the NEW Silver Line? What makes Blue and Orange so dang special that we can't have nice things? </div>
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Meg</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-35381642442600703192015-07-31T20:46:00.002-04:002015-07-31T20:46:20.319-04:00Welcome to D.C. and an Ode to the Bodega"Welcome to D.C..." (in the tune of Taylor Swift)<br />
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So I'm late on my catalog of my year in the city. I've already worked at my new job for a month and SO much has happened. But I wanted to do snippets of stories instead of "this is what I did today" type things. So bare with me. Here is the first one<br />
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<u>Ode to the Bodega </u><br />
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LaKesha is my guide in this new place. When we metro in together I follow her lead like a good baby duck. She has a year on me with the commute so I imagined that she had an idea of where to go and what to do.<br />
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Day two of the new job, we were slowly meandering down Connecticut Ave towards work. "You hungry?"<br />
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"Holy God, yes. I didn't have coffee or anything yet. Getting up at 6:45a.m. is disagreeing with me" I said. So we walked into this hole in the wall bodega/cafe called The Daily Market. LaKesha would get a sandwich there pretty regularly.<br />
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"Watch, the woman that makes our sandwiches. She HATES me. Or women. Or both." she said.<br />
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And sure enough, this small 40-something Asian woman who made the deli sandwiches had an air of indifference towards L and I, but was sweet as molasses pie to all the male customers. It became a fascination over the rest of the month. So my usual was either a bacon, egg and cheese toasted on sourdough, or a good ole BLT. Pair that with an iced coffee, a container of mangoes and an Inkos Honeydew tea, and I was set for the day.<br />
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I digress.<br />
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Day after day was the same. Walk in around 9:45a.m. and greet the friendly Asian gentleman who I am guessing was the owner.<br />
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"Good morning you!" he'd shout over the smoothie machine he was operating. I'd smile and wave, then make a beeline to the back. No time to chat my friend. Bacon is calling to me. "Hi. What you want?" grumpy-lady would ask. Some days I'd buy for me and some I'd get L's usual for her (Turkey, Egg, Cheese and Tomato on Sourdough in case you are curious). When I'd only buy myself a sandwich she would look up from her order pad and say "No friend today? Okay, I make for you." This became our dance each day.<br />
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Then something changed in grumpy-sandwich-lady. I had made it a goal that 1) I'd make her smile, and 2) I'd make her have a real conversation with me.<br />
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After grabbing my sandwich for the day I looked up at her and said, "Thank you. You know these are the one thing I look forward to each morning before work." The corner of her mouth crept upward and her eyes softened.<br />
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Boom. There it was. A smile.<br />
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The next day she was a bit more pleasant, and by Thursday of that week we finally had a conversation. Surprisingly we ended up chatting about L being overseas, and how superstitious some people in Thailand are. And then we talked about my job and my love of bacon. It's a thing. Things were looking up for grumpy-gal and I!<br />
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Then Friday came. I got to the bodega a little late and had to wait in line behind a few regulars. I casually overheard part of their conversation...<br />
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"I can't believe it's closing. Where will I get my sammies now?" a sandy-haired businessman complained.<br />
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"You find somewhere. D.C. is full of food." she joked "Try food truck."<br />
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I internally started screaming... <i>No. NO! I don't like change. What was this talk of closing?! They're closing the market!? I just got here!</i><br />
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When it was my turn, I questioned her. "So, when are you all closing for good?"<br />
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Without looking up from assembling my sandwich, she laughed "5:00p.m. today. That's it. We're done."<br />
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I had no warning! No time to mourn the loss. It was happening today. This would be my last sandwich. "Wow. I'm going to need more bacon to deal with this."<br />
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She smiled and handed me the sandwich. "You tell your friend hello for me. And have a good weekend to you."<br />
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"Take care of yourself." I murmured and wandered down the aisle to pay. Smoothie-man was standing at the ready with a sad smile. "You enjoy your job in the city. We appreciate your business. Enjoy the sunshine."<br />
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I walked out in a sad daze and trudged to work. How very dramatic right? It's a sandwich shop. The city is full of them. I get it. But the idea was that it had become part of the routine. There's even an angry little homeless man who never says thank you when you give him something who would park right outside the market.<br />
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He'd beg outside, or go in when someone bought him a sandwich (I did twice). The sandwich-woman would scold him when he'd get cranky about extra meat on his meal. "You shush. Pushy man. You get what I make and you say thank you to the lady." That shut him up and made me crack up laughing. Girl wasn't havin any of his shit. I, on the other hand, am a pushover. Now that the market was closing, the man was gone. Off to find another eatery to troll. I say troll because he wouldn't quietly sit with a cup or a sign. He wouldn't stand to the side or find a place in the shade to set up shop. He'd walk straight up to you and request a quarter, a dollar, a drink, and sandwich and/or a bowl of spaghetti (I'm not joking). I finally broke down and bought him the spaghetti once. He actually said thank you. But now that's over.<br />
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So now my walk is lonelier and hungrier. The windows have been covered and the padlock is set on the door. Rest in peace Daily Market. I hardly knew thee.<br />
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Meg<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-18649158439790391772015-07-16T18:12:00.001-04:002015-07-16T18:12:11.993-04:00It's Been A While...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wow. I haven't posted since last year!!! What am I doing with my life!? I guess that's where I'll start... what I'm doing with my life.<br />
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I am now officially Dr. Megan Tucker. BOOM! It happened. :)<br />
I got back from Italy last summer and dove headlong into my dissertation and work. And it's been quite a journey! However, I must say that I am a little proud of myself for sticking with it and pushing for my goal of finishing the paper in a year and by having a PhD before I turn 30. Well it's July 16th... one month and one week until my 30th. But it did really take up a ton of time.<br />
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This past Spring kind of flew by but at the same time it took forever! I defended in early April and spent the rest of the month editing and re-editing. In the meantime I was up to my ears in job applications. I think I became the master of the interview this year. I ended up doing upwards of 16 interviews or follow-ups. But of course, as fate would have it, a job I didn't apply for was the one I got. My dear friend LaKesha works for the National Communication Association in DC. They were looking for someone with a background in Comm, but with a degree or experience in Higher Ed. Ummm.. Hi. My name is Meg. Let me be your girl.<br />
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So on the way to another interview... on I-95, I get a call from her about setting up an interview for this job. One week later I was reading my offer letter and squealing. It's a temporary position, so I'll be back to the grind next year, looking for another job. But for now it's where I am testing out this new, fancy degree. I even have a name plaque on my desk. Super grown up. ;)<br />
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The only drawback to the job is that I have a tremendous commute into DC every day, and I'm still balancing working part-time at GMU and NVCC Woodbridge. And I live in Centreville. So every week I get to do this:<br />
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It's about an hour and a half into the city and about two hours to get home. I drive to the Metro, take the train in, and then get off near the White House and walk almost a mile north to Dupont. It's exhausting. But so far I love the work I'm doing, I get to share an office with LaKesha, and I have some good co-workers who have taken well to me (I think).<br />
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And now, I am house-hunting. You'd think I'd look closer to the city... but you'd be wrong. I still like Centreville. I'm looking elsewhere as well, but I'm not straying too far from what I know. You guys know I hate change. It's a dreadful thing.<br />
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Oh yeah. And Joe is finally moving out here. Like, it's officially official. He had a job interview today and his last day of work is tomorrow. By early August, he will be a Virginia resident. So cheers to starting a new adventure!<br />
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My point of this update is also to introduce a new part of this blog. I'm going to document my year working in the city. I feel like this is one of those experiences that I'll want to look back on since it's not something I ever intended on doing. So if you are interested in looking at my year in DC, check back soon.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCsnKImUQhxTr4-6oIWL59XNaXo63psk3aTx7ZLMqzdGR1F4GYVX7eNMF8thDHbFKaUEH1gI090QDxN03h6QoBgsdJVXI3XhxtgT5G0lSS9jtLwUI8MMNdTJQSTSYrF6RVZURlTspe7h4/s1600/IMG_20150716_180359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCsnKImUQhxTr4-6oIWL59XNaXo63psk3aTx7ZLMqzdGR1F4GYVX7eNMF8thDHbFKaUEH1gI090QDxN03h6QoBgsdJVXI3XhxtgT5G0lSS9jtLwUI8MMNdTJQSTSYrF6RVZURlTspe7h4/s320/IMG_20150716_180359.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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To new beginnings,<br />
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MegAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-35976159066031180802014-08-01T10:13:00.000-04:002014-08-01T10:13:12.854-04:00Firenze Frenzy: Planning a week in Florence, Italy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1jelU7ghWaUPQzafuwUs7zvt8S6UoVp8ADZRuZkE5tErmoMRQPbzpQ5ux0rLPKEHPTpjcPS1X7j6Kf-IKRkqWRObQZ0Yrg1wPResPkq2fmtryHee6QwARqjg60_fLbTxzSumWlHJZWEd/s1600/IMG_6801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1jelU7ghWaUPQzafuwUs7zvt8S6UoVp8ADZRuZkE5tErmoMRQPbzpQ5ux0rLPKEHPTpjcPS1X7j6Kf-IKRkqWRObQZ0Yrg1wPResPkq2fmtryHee6QwARqjg60_fLbTxzSumWlHJZWEd/s1600/IMG_6801.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Duomo in Florence, Italy</div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Being that we spent all day in Modena and Maranello on Sunday, we started our week in Florence on Monday. First off, let's talk about our apartment. We are situated about two blocks from the Duomo, which we can see from the living room window. The apartment is small and cozy with one bedroom (that Dad has graciously given to me since he gets up so early), a living room with a single bed, a dining area, a tiny closet sized kitchen and a bathroom. It's nice having a whole space to ourselves for sure. and the owners Giovanni and Maura were very kind and accommodating. We had some issues with the shower head (it doesn't attach to the holder above so you have to hold it the whole time) and there is a rather treacherous fight of stairs up to the apartment with a railing that is about to give up. But I am not complaining. For my first week here, it's a good start, and thankfully the weather has been nice, so having no AC has not been an issue. There is a little orange and white kitty that lives in the courtyard (or at one of the other apartments) in the building. She and I have formed quite a bond. :) The apartment is a huge old building dating back 400 years. It's amazing!</span></div>
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Monday in Florence: The lay of the land<br />
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We needed to get our bearings and rest up from a day of travel and walking in Modena. So I suggested we hold off on the mass of museum tours we have a pass for until Tuesday. Instead we got up early and walked down to the open marketplace for some provisions. 30 Euro later we had tomatoes, strawberries, bananas, bread, proscutto, cheese, buffalo mozzarella, cookies and garlic for Rob and Val. :o)<br />
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After we dropped off our food and make a small lunch of caprese salad, bread and strawberries, we headed back downtown towards the Duomo. There was quite a line to get in at first, so we walked around taking photos of the facade. I spotted an artisan gelateria so I grabbed dad and I some gelato. A small chocolate and pineapple for me and a small double chocolate for him. When I emerged and headed back to the shade where Dad was sitting, I noticed he was in deep conversation with a couple in their 50s. He made friends again. :o) This lovely couple was originally from outside of London but moved to Australia about 30 years ago. We chatted them up for about 15 minutes about travel, food and the French (it's a hot topic over here). When the queue was almost gone, we said goodbye and headed into the Duomo. What a beautiful place! It is different from the Duomo in Milano, but just as lovely.<br />
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Monday night we scouted out a restaurant that was recommended to us by Giovanni where I had an amazing marinated steak and mixed roasted veggies. Dad got spaghetti de la mare. Two cappuccinos later we were wandering home and hit the hay.<br />
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Ciao,<br />
MegAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-62009482071931067782014-07-30T16:57:00.006-04:002014-07-30T16:57:56.265-04:00Welcome to Modena! <div style="text-align: center;">
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Dad and I took a day trip via train to Modena and Maranello to visit both Ferrari Museums. Modena is famous for the home of Enzo Ferrari, as well as the production of a large amount of Italy's balsalmic vinegar.<br />
For those who aren't sure of where this is, it is slightly north of Bologna.<br />
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So we woke up super early and caught a cab to the Firenze train station. One and a half hours later (on a slow train) we got to Modena. Modena hosts Enzo's family home and the Enzo Ferrari Museum. From June to sometime this fall the museum is hosting a large Maserati exhibit! What a beautiful display of cars! Not only that, but the museum created two videos that played in the showroom, detailing the history of Maserati and the link to Ferrari. Next to the museum (which is shaped like a Ferrari hood) is Enzo's family home, which was renovated to host some collectibles from the family, as well as a few vintage Alfa Romeos and Ferraris. My favorite was the "Enzo" Ferrari of which only 399 were made. Pure beauty! Even for those who are not car buffs like my father and I, you cannot deny that this is a form of modern art.<br />
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After we looked at the Maseratis, we took a break for lunch at the museum. Both of us got the tortoloni and some cappuccinos to refuel (na ha!) for part two. We then hopped on the shuttle to head to Maranello where the official Ferrari Museum is housed. I think our shuttle driver had dreams that his van was actually a Ferrari and that he was actually Mario Andretti... we were flying through the streets and weaving around traffic.<br />
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When we finally made it (in one piece) to Maranello, we entered a bustling Ferrari Museum with an overwhelming amount of Ferraris and memorabilia. It was the crush of humanity stuffed in a car museum. Regardless, it was a place of pure beauty and appreciation for the art of racing and craftsmanship.<br />
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I think my father's face is now stuck in a permanent grin. It was the mecca of the racer...a car lover's utopia. Okay, maybe that is an exaggeration... but not by much. :)<br />
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After a long day wandering through both places, we headed back to the train station and traded up our tickets to an earlier fast train to Firenze. Dad met a family from Brazil on board that we recognized from the museum. So he made friends. That man can talk to basically anyone, language barrier be damned.<br />
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Ciao,<br />
Meg<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-4317480851530672632014-07-30T16:16:00.000-04:002014-07-30T16:16:12.243-04:00Beware of Pickpockets! <br />
It can't be a Cinderella story all the time.<br />
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Of course you read "Beware of Pickpockets" all over Milan (and other places in Italy) and especially in bus/train stations. And of course you clutch your purse tighter, pay closer attention to people near you and keep stuff out of your back pockets.<br />
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But sometimes it happens anyway.<br />
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Dad and I were taking the train from Milano Centrale to Florence this past Saturday, and sometime in the station, Dad got robbed. Centrale was packed with people and we kept getting bumped into while weaving our way to our train. At one point when we were heading to the platform everyone bottle-necked and we ended up at a standstill. That's when I think it happened.<br />
<br />The worst part is that poor Dad was even prepared. He had his money clip in a side cargo pant pocket that was velcro'd shut. Sadly, it was still snatched. Credit cards, 300 Euro, license and the money clip from Joan... gone.<br />
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Thankfully we have my cards/cash and phone. So Dad called the credit card company etc to cancel the cards.<br />
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He took it fairly well, whereas I on the other hand was livid and nervous! For the next two days I had some anxiety going out and about and the distinct desire to punch people in the face. In fact, I may still want to do that. ;) But we figured it all out and all is well. I just hate not having control over certain events, or just knowing that I can't change the outcome of something frustrating.<br />
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This is two robberies in one trip: Cathy's smartphone and Dad's wallet. Can we be done now!?<br />
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This has not and will not sour my trip to Florence. <3 nbsp="" p=""><br />
Meg</3>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-9702534741116914412014-07-30T16:09:00.001-04:002014-07-30T16:09:15.098-04:00Stresa in a Day<div style="text-align: center;">
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If you have not considered taking day trips while visiting a central location (such as Milan) you should reconsider. I have thoroughly enjoyed the day trips to Turino, Pavia, Lake Como and most recently, Stresa. More specifically, we took the group to the islands surrounding Stresa. It's nestled in the Italian Alps with Switzerland to the north and west. On a clear day you can see snow capped mountains in the distance. The weather was mild but a bit humid... however, on the boat it was just delicious to take in!<br />
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The trip consisted of wandering about two separate islands with mansions and museums and gardens at both. Some of the most beautiful (and precise) gardens I have seen. Might even give England a run for their money.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-37937711006270948742014-07-27T17:14:00.001-04:002014-07-27T17:14:06.023-04:00Dad's Week In Milan!<br />
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Oh wow, I am so behind on the blog! Forgive me if you have been trying to follow along.<br />
<br />
Dad came in to Milano on Monday, and the next 5 days were a whirlwind!<br />
The Camplus Turro staff was nice enough to let Dad stay with me at a VERY low rate, and rearrange my room to host two beds. Let the snoring symphony commence!<br />
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When Dad got in, I took him to the same restaurant I went to on my first night in Milano... Gemelli's! Dad proceeded to eat an entire Margherita pizza and clams and spaghetti... and some of my bruschetta in record time. :o) I really will miss that place, and the super sweet waitress that was there every time we went in over the past month.<br />
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Tuesday<br />
We hit the ground running! Everyone got up early for breakfast at campus (croissants, yogurt and cappuccinos) and the off we went to the University. Dad sat in on the lecture on Italian Film and even participated a bit with the discussion. :o) After we took a bit of a break for lunch, we set off to see the Last Supper. I repeat. THE. LAST. SUPPER. As in Leonardo Da Vinci. To say it was breathtaking and stunning and fabulous is not even scratching the surface. It brought tears to my eyes, and I'm pretty sure I saw Dad and Cathy welling up also. And... it was huge. I suppose it was my ignorance and just seeing it in photo books and art history classes. I knew it was big, but I had no idea how big. I cannot believe I got to be there, right in front of it. Sadly we were not allowed to take photos, but I got a book from the church with photos and info on it.<br />
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Wednesday<br />
I will need to write a separate post in detail on the trip to Stresa, but since it's late and for the sake of brevity, I will summarize. We got up at the crack of dawn to get to Centrale to catch a train to Stresa, north of Milano and west of Lake Como. It was the perfect day for us to go! Beautiful blue skies and we got a fair view of the Italian and Swiss Alps. :o) When we got to Stresa, we hitched a ride on a lake boat and made our way to Isola Bella and Isola Maggorie. Dad has a knack of making friends everywhere... regardless of language barrier. So he set off in befriending the captain of our boat who spoke VERY little English and dad spoke even less Italian. But yet, they talked boats and cars for quite some time. The islands were an amazing mix of gardens, statues and architecture/art. I took a bunch of photos which I still need to load. After the islands, we headed back to Milano to get some work done and to find some dinner!<br />
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Thursday<br />
Dad and I got up and out early with the group and headed out to the Duomo in downtown Milano. We finally got to go inside!! All month I have been looking forward to this. What a beautiful, sacred place. After the tour inside, we rode the elevator (the students took the stairs) to the roof of the Duomo which overlooked the rest of the city. It was raining so we had to tread carefully around, but the photos made it worth it. Dad and I strolled to the piazza duomo after the tour for some lunch. I took him to Biffi's for some caprese and wine. After a filling, uber-Italian lunch, we walked over to meet Alex (our guide) for the Black Death Tour. Basically we hiked around the city (for miles) and talked about the plague and its impact on Milano and Italy in general. The tour took us through areas south of the duomo that I had not been to yet, and we saw three other churches ranging in age. Again... I had a field day with photos!<br />
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Friday<br />
The last full day in Milano! I took Dad to the Brera Museum for a few hours. He was enraptured with the Caravaggio there, and rightfully so. It was outstanding. We got lunch out there at Bar Brera where again I watched dad consume mass quantities of lasagna and pizza. :o) And he is now a fan of espresso and cappuccinos. Huzzah! I had grading to do so we came back to the dorms for a bit and hung out with Cathy before heading out to the farewell dinner with the group. It was bittersweet for sure. I had a lovely time and the food was amazing, but it was sad to know it was the last time the group would be together. Professors Luca and Mossimo came to the dinner as well and again Dad set off to make new friends. They talked for hours! :o) After dinner, Dad and Cathy talked me in to going out a bit longer with some of the students who were having one last celebration before their early flights. After a long, tiring walk home I was ready to pass out!<br />
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Saturday<br />
Packing. Packing. Packing. I need to reconfigure my rolling bag... as it is currently 52lbs and I have a week in Florence to buy things... Yikes! Dad, Cathy and I spent the day together before Dad and I had to head back to Milano Centrale to catch the train to Firenze (Florence). We had a delightful lunch together and just chatted about the whole adventure. When we got to Centrale poor Dad got pickpocketed by some assholes at the station. I am over that place. :o( All of his cash (over $300), credit cards, license and a money clip that Joan gave him... gone. We didn't even find out until we got to Florence and went to pay the cab driver. To make it even worse, Dad was being cautious and had it in a velcro cargo pocket of his pants. But there were hundreds of people in Centrale and at one point we were stuck in a large group without moving. But, we are both okay and safe.<br />
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So a poor end to a great week in Milano... but still a great week. Dad said he is just as happy as he can be, and that he isn't worried about the pickpocketing. So that's a plus at least. His level of calm allowed me to be freaked out a bit. I don't know how he does it. My admiration runs deep.<br />
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More later. I must rest!<br />
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Ciao,<br />
MegAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-15395069159497248502014-07-25T10:23:00.004-04:002014-07-25T10:23:30.285-04:00Switzerland for the Weekend!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBcTMSr9M7pBCgO8-9A588tUTDeX6nFMilgZBVWwd_5IpRbvi9nH-7glIX2mSAGwOdEl4-XVN1LuSrWxrgRvR73hUOB06kWb8kPJ7SBPiFYMN3E51H3_OEw9QEhIxVlTBCF-MXiCwa1T1/s1600/20140718_084158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBcTMSr9M7pBCgO8-9A588tUTDeX6nFMilgZBVWwd_5IpRbvi9nH-7glIX2mSAGwOdEl4-XVN1LuSrWxrgRvR73hUOB06kWb8kPJ7SBPiFYMN3E51H3_OEw9QEhIxVlTBCF-MXiCwa1T1/s1600/20140718_084158.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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Cathy and I packed up and took the train up to Switzerland. Here is a whirlwind recap of the weekend... I will be going back to that country someday. It was amazing.<br />
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THURSDAY (Still in Italy):<o:p></o:p></div>
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What a fast week! After a quick lecture on Italian Music
given by the dashingly handsome Luca, Cathy and I went to grab a quick lunch
and then catch the train towards Tirano, Italy. Since there is a small Eataly
restaurant near the metro stop, we decided to eat there. Either I was starving
and EVERYTHING would taste good, or the classic club sandwich and caprese salad
I got for lunch was amazing. I’m going with the latter since it was Eataly. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi5YkPM3aUCRy2_qx9IC2jRVzsBHRyXcIgkFQ8nnW6vuGk1g2dbM6VTTLElKwcO9TwVfJgD_In3HgEdc3LirAsLl9CCnAOFqapGV6yQQaNjtiAdhYsjKFcXcwyFXCQOsMhd1wq93_C8Sy9/s1600/IMG_5456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi5YkPM3aUCRy2_qx9IC2jRVzsBHRyXcIgkFQ8nnW6vuGk1g2dbM6VTTLElKwcO9TwVfJgD_In3HgEdc3LirAsLl9CCnAOFqapGV6yQQaNjtiAdhYsjKFcXcwyFXCQOsMhd1wq93_C8Sy9/s1600/IMG_5456.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6xyOwomIHli2wZkuDjl_rq1b9Fm6oOA0Rsv6nAbGKWV4jdP-8DBBKz190rHsigCZyviX68dLS3ylje8HPAxqFHoXF6oXOus_EalvpnKQ1hQQxMx0TSe3KmIfsMeoYtkoygK6Zxpvnwyw/s1600/IMG_5453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6xyOwomIHli2wZkuDjl_rq1b9Fm6oOA0Rsv6nAbGKWV4jdP-8DBBKz190rHsigCZyviX68dLS3ylje8HPAxqFHoXF6oXOus_EalvpnKQ1hQQxMx0TSe3KmIfsMeoYtkoygK6Zxpvnwyw/s1600/IMG_5453.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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After lunch we had to haul ass to the metro to catch the
yellow line to Centrale. When there we had to again haul ass up the stairs to
catch the Regional train headed to Tirano. We made it with 2 minutes to spare.
My thighs were burning and I’m pretty sure I suffered a mild heart attack. But
after we settled in our stuffy train car, we set off for the 2+ hour journey to
Tirano. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Making it Tirano was a beautiful thing. What an adorable
little village nestled in the valley of the Italian Alps. It would be a perfect
place for me to set up shop and write the rest of my dissertation. What a
fabulous idea! Shame I couldn't afford the trip back. The little hotel we
stayed at was freaking adorable and right out of a Goldilocks story. We had a
small but cozy bathroom and two twin beds. Our windows opened to the main road
and the rushing aqueduct that flows through the center of town. The alpine
water was this crystal aquamarine color that I’d liken to the “robin’s egg”
color of some classic cars from the 1950s. After setting down our goods, we set
off to wander the little town and scout out some dinner spots. Some of the
photos I got of the little alleyways and side streets are beyond charming. It
almost seemed fake. I met a cute little
gray kitty that obviously belonged to a local Innkeeper as she was super
friendly and anxious to be loved on. <o:p></o:p></div>
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A turn back through town took us to a cute little ristorante
and pizzeria where we decided dinner was necessary. Our grumbling stomachs
agreed. Oh. My. God. The food was fantastic! I got this pear and cheese salad
with walnuts and a light vinegaratte that was to DIE for. I’d eat that every
day if I could. For dinner we got a 4 cheese pizza and some local white wine (a
staple of the area). <o:p></o:p></div>
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We called it a fairly early night since we had to be up at a
decent time to catch the Bernina Express into Switzerland. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgXwYCEJkDvXTIbWO2derusIxYgFCapueLMg1_xZ4Fq7nkpGRwBHKEz46l19uXqM-3bdVo57-FpyaykRdBAzoz4uEyxNBr_xQe88RprCQHhrCJcOw1cGN4NNujA7tciLppKYA0OeMG6sq/s1600/IMG_5458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgXwYCEJkDvXTIbWO2derusIxYgFCapueLMg1_xZ4Fq7nkpGRwBHKEz46l19uXqM-3bdVo57-FpyaykRdBAzoz4uEyxNBr_xQe88RprCQHhrCJcOw1cGN4NNujA7tciLppKYA0OeMG6sq/s1600/IMG_5458.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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FRIDAY:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ate breakfast at the hotel<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bernina Express – 2.5 hour trip; What an amazing journey
through the Alps! The weather was beautiful and the trip was exactly as I
expected Switzerland to be. Took well over 400 photos … Cathy got a little
snap-happy<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hiking nuns! Luckily
at one point during the trip, we passed a beautiful aqua lake where Cathy
spotted two nuns hiking around. She snapped a cute photo of them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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When we arrived in St Moritz we wanted to wander around and
dig up somewhere to eat lunch. Being the tourists we are, we walked up the side
of a steep hill towards the center of town. That was painful! Not only was the
elevation working against my lungs, but so was the steep incline. Come to find
out that there was an escalator that would take you up the mountain… Whoops. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Expensive ass lunch – meatloaf with fried egg and potato
salad; Very good, but very pricey!<o:p></o:p></div>
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After lunch we wandered back down to the lake for some more
picturesque views before taking the train to Celerina where our hotel was. I
decided my goal for the trip was to stick my feet in an alpine lake or stream
before I left Switzerland. So I stuck my poor aching feet in the lake! And
maybe it was the fact that my feet were numb, but maybe (and I’m going with
this) the lake has some healing properties because afterwards my feet felt 10x
better.</div>
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Took train over to Celerina – stayed at All in One Hotel which
was an adorable ski lodge place. We had a room with two bunk beds, a desk area
and shower/bathroom. The only issue I had with the place was that they charged
5 franks for towels…. We had to pay for towels. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We promptly took a well deserved nap after the day of
travel. The beds were surprisingly comfortable and I was hard-pressed to move
after I woke back up. But we had big plans!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Took a “Mountain crab” to Romantik Hotel for dinner. By
mountain crab I mean it’s a trolley that climbs the side of a mountain. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Spent 100 franks per person on dinner of: tomato soup, peach
sorbet, steak med rare with herb butter, veggies and chocolate mousse with
strawberries for desert <o:p></o:p></div>
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It was one of the best meals of my whole life. After dinner
it was around 11pm and FREEZING! Of course even though I packed pants and a
light sweater, it wasn’t enough. Cathy on the other hand was in pure heaven.
However we did decide to split the ungodly cost of a cab to take us to the hotel
instead of waiting outside at 11pm for a bus that would come around midnight. <o:p></o:p></div>
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SATURDAY<o:p></o:p></div>
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Woke up early to get breakfast at the hotel. Had the best
croissants of my LIFE with some creamed honey; cute waiter made us cappuccinos <o:p></o:p></div>
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Took an adventurous trip on the train to find the mountain
lift we were scouting for<o:p></o:p></div>
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Took the lift to 3033 meters (about 10k feet) to the top of
a mountain in the Alps. Walked on a glacier. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Ate lunch at the panorama bar/bistro on the mountain; Got a
mixed plate of dried meats and local cheeses as well as some French fries.
Ordered 2 cappuccinos which I aptly dubbed “ALPaccinos” <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> <o:p></o:p></div>
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Spent the day taking photos and wandering around<o:p></o:p></div>
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Took bus back to Celerina where we promptly took a nap. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Wandered into town for dinner and came across a place that
served fondue; Got the cheese fondue with potatoes, onions, pickles, baby corn,
pepper and olives. Ninja’d some cheese for tomorrow<o:p></o:p></div>
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SUNDAY<o:p></o:p></div>
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We woke up for breakfast at the hotel. I had more great
croissants and a cappuccino! Seriously, the croissants were so light and flaky
I could have eaten 10 of them! Get it together Italy!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Grabbed a local train to St Moritz; Got back on the Bernina
Express towards Tirano. Today the weather was rainy and cloudy which was
beautiful against the mountain backdrop; nice to get both types of weather for
the trip. The 2.5 hour journey seemed a little longer this time due to a
plethora of young children in our car making a LOT of noise, and the fact that
we were leaving Switzerland for good. A bit depressing, but the view made me
smile. I would love to go back. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We ate lunch in Tirano at Vittora where I got
spaghetti bolonese and salad with a super thick hot chocolate… it was like
chocolate pudding!! Cathy got a Hawaiian pizza and some red vino. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We hopped on the 3pm Trennord Regional train towards Milano
Centrale (where I am currently writing this blog). Thus ending our weekend
getaway in Switzerland. Bought a few knives and trinkets.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dad leaves for Denmark today (he will arrive Monday morning)
and then tomorrow night he will be in Milano!!!!!!!!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-33282389927524231272014-07-20T14:24:00.002-04:002014-07-20T14:24:50.658-04:00Lake Como and Chef Murano<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9TT7wdqxwSKWarGBHrBZLw2GkBUZVFP1tuu1rwM9LrZJ8Unj_K20VM7LpgTzs3_QXl-G2Gu56hjSYsz9n37Nu9OTYnVFds1aoaDwV2PIeB89ZXZFv9kfkgOOxtwXqyxGbWJ9L86EaRkV/s1600/IMG_5111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9TT7wdqxwSKWarGBHrBZLw2GkBUZVFP1tuu1rwM9LrZJ8Unj_K20VM7LpgTzs3_QXl-G2Gu56hjSYsz9n37Nu9OTYnVFds1aoaDwV2PIeB89ZXZFv9kfkgOOxtwXqyxGbWJ9L86EaRkV/s1600/IMG_5111.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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What an amazing week and I feel like it FLEW by! I will have to catch you up on my weekend in Switzerland, but FIRST I have to talk about last Wednesday when the group took a train out to Lake Como for the day.<br />
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First of all, Lake Como is gorgeous, and the little lake-side town we visited, Perledo, is something out of a story book. We wound our way up the side of a mountain to Chef Murano's restaurant for our cooking class.<br />
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He showed us how to make tortoloni from scratch, as well as veal wrapped in prosciutto and tiramisu! It was DELISH, and not too hard to do, so I'll definitely be trying it when I get home. (Something to look forward to Kris!)<br />
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While we were waiting on our items to cook, the chef and his lovely wife fed us local meats and cheeses as well as copious amounts of wine.<br />
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We spent a good share of the afternoon there and when we finally left, some students grabbed the train home while others of us decided to go across the lake to Bellagio for some shopping. :) They are known for their silk, so of course I had to pick up a scarf!<br />
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Overall a wonderful day and I got some beautiful photos. I have quite a task ahead of me when I get home... I have to sort through all of them!<br />
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Ciao,<br />
MegAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-58210851551665259802014-07-15T15:09:00.001-04:002014-07-15T15:09:25.285-04:00Santa Margherita and Portofino<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was so wrapped up in the cell phone debacle that I didn't post about Santa Margherita this past Saturday!</div>
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What a beautiful city by the sea! This is located near the Italian Riviera near Portofino and Genova. I was debating all week on where I would go for Saturday and Cathy suggesting hitching along with her since she was scuba diving out there.<br />
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So we <i>happily</i> got up at 5:15am and headed for the train station at Milano Centrale. The trip took a few hours, but by 8:20am we met up with one of the handsome gentlemen from the dive shop and he took us to the shop to get ready.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbK5FSScMY4ylVUZ22Z966qdeKUwQglbIirWRd20txIR_L5d_jrs7JOwRDNhUBe_-IRQyZprZ58jnQqbOQUzt2rVeBFiNAEuP7H40Yzk5YQv42qpcP6gNHDFNi1zhnaYfWYMcjTC6PddL/s1600/Santa+Margherita11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbK5FSScMY4ylVUZ22Z966qdeKUwQglbIirWRd20txIR_L5d_jrs7JOwRDNhUBe_-IRQyZprZ58jnQqbOQUzt2rVeBFiNAEuP7H40Yzk5YQv42qpcP6gNHDFNi1zhnaYfWYMcjTC6PddL/s1600/Santa+Margherita11.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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My goal was to hopefully snorkel out a bit near Christ of the Abyss (shown below). However when we got out there I realized there was no way I would be able to do it with the amount of choppiness and the temperature. Meh. Instead myself and two other people on the boat took naps.<br />
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<i>Taken from images.google.com</i></div>
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Let that sink in. I took a nap. On a boat. On the Italian Riviera. HA!<br />
There's something snobby about that for sure! :o)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-fYH6UY6HByi-_WjQdwP7bAES9xpElnxzL_-FKAxa9iTSNMLUrLttgIL-GfatIbLeNeOWfv4SP3eXZLRnaLDVpyRxS5trMI2HZN-RkvHTk4sWGORPUdAhD_SVK2L0fzHa_GHDohHOAUL/s1600/Santa+Margherita1+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK-fYH6UY6HByi-_WjQdwP7bAES9xpElnxzL_-FKAxa9iTSNMLUrLttgIL-GfatIbLeNeOWfv4SP3eXZLRnaLDVpyRxS5trMI2HZN-RkvHTk4sWGORPUdAhD_SVK2L0fzHa_GHDohHOAUL/s1600/Santa+Margherita1+4.jpg" height="112" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGEZvh8932a2pCMHijQdG_tqgQ99V5Vx40hTXghaPYYKTsGAHIZ8GC6Jjc-Xrt1BETemXBLxa94TEJWHYHr1_jf5S8TyFmZLaSIrioPHRCOZiS7fkrFVnL3bacdhZWyaIng7dNVRrwdhl/s1600/Santa+Margherita1+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGEZvh8932a2pCMHijQdG_tqgQ99V5Vx40hTXghaPYYKTsGAHIZ8GC6Jjc-Xrt1BETemXBLxa94TEJWHYHr1_jf5S8TyFmZLaSIrioPHRCOZiS7fkrFVnL3bacdhZWyaIng7dNVRrwdhl/s1600/Santa+Margherita1+3.jpg" height="112" width="200" /></a></div>
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So after Cathy got done scuba diving, we headed back to shore and went to lunch at Caffe del Porto!<br />
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What a CUTE place and the food was delish (service was slow, but that seems to be a theme in Italy).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LlrGTwqKwropKYC3pDznoBYmQtvYuzRfuHlon7gKGwxt1rMkzlm-U98ctQH2xAe5cG-r02Mf_7rXJlUTiR0HtIHEoxz_tDHBz2nQob98cjVAGJH7IMhcN-6gwdDMywEA4Q5maoTle1X3/s1600/IMG_5086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LlrGTwqKwropKYC3pDznoBYmQtvYuzRfuHlon7gKGwxt1rMkzlm-U98ctQH2xAe5cG-r02Mf_7rXJlUTiR0HtIHEoxz_tDHBz2nQob98cjVAGJH7IMhcN-6gwdDMywEA4Q5maoTle1X3/s1600/IMG_5086.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a> </div>
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We had to be back to the train station by 4:00, so we took a few minutes to check out some of the shops. I got a cute necklace with a compass rose on it for 20 Euros! Then we grabbed a cab and headed back to the train station.<br />
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We got back to Milano after 8:00pm where I found out that poor Bear was sick and Kris was trying to get in touch with me all day. Curse the time difference!!! But it got worked out and Bear is on the mend thanks to K and her mom. <3 nbsp="" p=""><br />
I'm still feeling a little homesick, but I am thoroughly enjoying myself!<br />
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Ciao!<br />
Meg <!--3--></3>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-56112861102470447122014-07-13T17:23:00.000-04:002014-07-13T17:23:05.969-04:00A Danger of Travel: Not a Great Day<br />
Well today started out well enough. Slept in. Got a LOT of work done for the classes. Then Cathy and a group of students (and myself) hiked out to a Chinese restaurant about a mile from the dorms. The service was sloooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooow, but the food as a whole was pretty good and fairly priced.<br />
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We came back and continued the ever up-hill battle of grading for a few more hours. When dinnertime arrived, we planned on metroing out to a place where we will have the farewell dinner in a few weeks (Cathy wanted to make reservations).<br />
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So we metro to Loreto and walk outside to get our bearings. Cathy pulls out her phone to bring up Google Maps so we could figure out the right street. Out of nowhere an asshole on a bike rode right by us and snatched her phone out of her hand. I couldn't do anything but yell "NO!" as loud as humanly possible as Cathy screamed out too. And he was gone. Just took off full force on the bike, wearing a gray hoodie with the hood pulled over his head. I suspect this was not his first go-round.<br />
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To say it was a shock to the system is putting it lightly. I don't like feeling helpless and in that moment, looking Cathy in the eye, I felt helpless. I know for myself, a lot of my life is on my phone. I have hundreds of photos, access to accounts/social media and not to mention the most obvious... connection to the outside world. It becomes especially important when traveling.<br />
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We turned around and headed straight back for the dorms to lock up Cathy's accounts and remotely wipe the phone clean. Thankfully, Cathy had an Italian SIM card in her phone, so all of her info before the trip is safe on a US SIM. Unfortunately, all she had done in Italy (sparing a few photos that got saved to Google) was gone, along with a running tally of receipts to submit for refunds when we return... that will be a mess I'm sure.<br />
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So we wiped the phone and locked it, so the asshole can't do much with it. Not to mention the screen was cracked and it had my uber girly Otterbox case on it... so he wasn't really winning a big prize. However, poor Cathy has to pay almost $400 to replace the phone. It's a Galaxy S4 so they are pretty pricey to begin with. So here's to hoping she can claim it through our travel insurance out here. :(<br />
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Regardless, it's a mess and I feel so SO terrible for Cathy. She put on a brave face, but I just know she feels completely violated. Of course it could have been worse. It could have been our purses with our wallets and passports... but that doesn't take the sting out of it. I think both of us will be fairly paranoid for a while as well. You know in traveling that this stuff happens, but it doesn't really soften the blow when it happens to you.<br />
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I'm sorry to report such depressing things tonight... but it happened, so what can you do? But both of us are fine and we weren't physically injured in the event. Still sucks. :(<br />
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MegAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-52038938754654636172014-07-13T09:54:00.002-04:002014-07-13T09:54:52.881-04:00Things I Take for Granted in the States<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Resting my swollen ankles by the sea.</i></div>
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I love Italy. I love it. It's beautiful and I am in food heaven. HOWEVER, there are things about home that I certainly miss and definitely take for granted since I'm from the US. So I thought I'd make a list of things that I miss or that I take for granted. I've been gone two weeks, so I'm sure some of this is homesickness, but some of it is just the Truth!<br />
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1. Normal operating hours of restaurants - Things are just not open here. Restaurants here seem to be open 12-2 and 7-10:30ish.<br />
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<i>Stores! Why you no want my money?</i></div>
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2. Reliable Internet - Now this may be a product of where we are staying, but it has been a burden getting logged on and staying logged on. Not just for Facebook... lol.. but actual work. I am teaching a virtual class and grading all things online here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pFNF7tDAAKVbS9oOPbzA5bKEEEuASL8N5OGsSVCir9DkAbBgAspNixnvyAU1qrJ96M7L9xCrgQWp3Y5aPtSlogZAowg0Z8tTBXdTMnV08Dtv-SVCIm-Xq8BkfibMJMLq0yN_h1sRBWlK/s1600/IMG_4574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pFNF7tDAAKVbS9oOPbzA5bKEEEuASL8N5OGsSVCir9DkAbBgAspNixnvyAU1qrJ96M7L9xCrgQWp3Y5aPtSlogZAowg0Z8tTBXdTMnV08Dtv-SVCIm-Xq8BkfibMJMLq0yN_h1sRBWlK/s1600/IMG_4574.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>I am ready for you Internet. I want you. </i></div>
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3. My Jeep -More specifically, the freedom to drive at will. I miss having an automobile at the ready. That said, I have walked a TON (an average of 3-4 miles a day), but my ankles are not enjoying it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWhSm8GznNhllyisDQhf_yoCGcdYN0v-64PJExXs9QqMsdBJt2LrRZ1k1tOFOLDPebCvtqgHhjB7-uwcLzAwyiFY3GJrao-Q1ShPRNjbRB8aitlrMcYNTLU9Q9ey6Hfa1faiJR3suLYhNP/s1600/100_4206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWhSm8GznNhllyisDQhf_yoCGcdYN0v-64PJExXs9QqMsdBJt2LrRZ1k1tOFOLDPebCvtqgHhjB7-uwcLzAwyiFY3GJrao-Q1ShPRNjbRB8aitlrMcYNTLU9Q9ey6Hfa1faiJR3suLYhNP/s1600/100_4206.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Meg cankles for the win... No. :(</i></div>
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4. Iced Coffee / Latte's - It's summer. And while I love the espressos and cappuccinos I am having multiple times a day here... it's very humid and hot. An iced latte would be AMAZING right now.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJfsinbndenVOM2fRuqFqsXGpFTtk4BM21E1-xhyphenhyphenYAAFThoAgKd8oa1jn2czn4m9T9-wwwsCv750KKUrmYDnCml0IID4QhsUWAM7qmcwmboiOH5OyXhXbIPOKXI6PmhCX1h1IqKVwkXonb/s1600/20140702_041408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJfsinbndenVOM2fRuqFqsXGpFTtk4BM21E1-xhyphenhyphenYAAFThoAgKd8oa1jn2czn4m9T9-wwwsCv750KKUrmYDnCml0IID4QhsUWAM7qmcwmboiOH5OyXhXbIPOKXI6PmhCX1h1IqKVwkXonb/s1600/20140702_041408.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<i>It's 90 degrees. Gimme dat ice!</i></div>
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5. My Sized Clothing - I'm fat. Or at least chunky. There's no denying it. And I've had a bitch of a time trying to find anything remotely close to my size. (I GET THE MESSAGE NORTHERN ITALY! MAYBE SICILY WILL LOVE ME FOR WHO I AM!). The one thing I found close to my size was listed as a 3X. What... The... Fu...<br />
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<i> They made my likeness into a statue.</i></div>
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6. Free Water - In restaurants at least. Aqua Naturalie is about 3 euros. And for some reason, traveling to Europe makes me a friggin camel. I am craving water like woah. I may spend half of my money on the trip on the world's most abundant resource. Thank you, Virginia, for requiring free water in restaurants.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5CZUoM58Sj3uUuu3ue_lLWA_dxBM77SzBFJqUVm1vfXAZBCd0zwzWXnESiop3DCn4-YTLITSi7incwPJbKIgyo-nxUH5I-0pckxzSsTLhvsqXs6Y1nr95R6deDyDwGrrBWwGUu_yFlYx/s1600/100_4182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD5CZUoM58Sj3uUuu3ue_lLWA_dxBM77SzBFJqUVm1vfXAZBCd0zwzWXnESiop3DCn4-YTLITSi7incwPJbKIgyo-nxUH5I-0pckxzSsTLhvsqXs6Y1nr95R6deDyDwGrrBWwGUu_yFlYx/s1600/100_4182.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>Aqua... why you so expensive for!?</i></div>
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7. Texting / Calling - I have figured out how to Skype call home phones in the states, so that's helped me keep up with Dad and Mom. And I am What's App-ing and Skyping with Kris and Joe, but I do miss the freedom of picking up the phone anywhere and dialing or texting without a HUGE fee (or just no service). Yes. I am a slave to my device. No. I am not ashamed. I am a product of my culture, and I need maps to work since I left my 3x3 atlas under the seat of my Jeep.<br />
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8. Freely Using Credit Cards - Italy is a cash country. The look on people's faces when you hand them a credit card is priceless (there is a VISA commercial somewhere in that statement)... I am used to debit/credit swiping and being on my way in the states. Here, while places (in general) do accept cards, they prefer the cash. And if they don't mind cards, they want one with a chip in it (Shout-out to the Bank of America guy who talked me into the travel card with a chip before I left! You've saved me, bro.). So I've had to get used to taking out a lot of cash at once (oh the coins! help me!) AND they tend to give you the death stare if you hand them a 50 euro bill... sooo small bills are king here?<br />
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9. CVS (US Pharmacies) - This sounds dumb. But the convenience of CVS is amazing. I can get my meds, sinus and headache stuff, a foot wrap, Twizzlers (very important), shampoos and body washes, and makeup in one fell swoop. And food if I so desired. The pharmacies here are quite small so very limited in choices. My arches dropped so my feet have been in serious pain for over a week. I was trying to get a foot wrap or old person compression sock and finally found one... for 30 euros. No. I will take Ibuprofen and pray.<br />
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<i>Why can't you fulfill my needs Farmacia!?</i></div>
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10. Family and Friends - Duh. I miss people. I miss seeing them and calling them freely without accounting for the time difference. Seven hours ahead of Joe has made it impossible for me to call him on his way to work, and a burden on me getting to bed on time when he gets off of work (11pm for me, and I get up around 6-7am). Six hours ahead of the fam (including K) which is just as much of an issue. I feel so very far from them and I wish I could share more than just this blog as an experience with them. I am so pleased that Dad will be here in a week. :o) But yes, Bear got sick yesterday and poor Kris spent all morning trying to reach me and I spent the evening trying to reach her. Bah!<br />
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Again... I love it here. I just needed to make a list.<br />
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Buona Sera,<br />
MegAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-68788881768992640642014-07-11T10:09:00.004-04:002014-07-11T10:09:40.424-04:00Turino Tuesday (and Wednesday)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, though it looks like we just gallivanting around Italy drinking wine and eating cheese... we are actually working quite hard. Not that I'm complaining by any means. However, I have had a few people ask about my "vacation" to Italy. No, no my friend. We are working hard and playing hard, as it should be. :o)<br />
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So on Tuesday of this week, we took the train to Turino (Turin for those in the states). Being the fancy pants that we are, we took first class (Yay for free coffee!).<br />
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Upon our arrival to Turin, we checked in at the dorms (a sister campus of our own), and went to Eataly... think Wegmans, Whole Foods and your favorite authentic Italian restaurant exploded and that is Eataly. :) We got lunch which for me consisted of wine, meat and cheese. Yessssssss. :)<br />
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So following lunch the groups branched off with most of the students and Cathy going to the cinema museum. Myself and three other girls (Alison, Blanca and Megan) met with a sweet woman named Sara by the castello (castle) in the city center. The castle was turned into a museum with artifacts from the Roman-era to the early 1900s. The focus was the influence on fashion an society an how that changed over time (and still changes). It was fascinating and the art history/history buff in me was squealing. </div>
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After the tour, we went back to Eataly for dinner. I got rolled chicken, russet potatoes and a mixed salad. For dessert I had this delicious and rich chocolate cake (originally from Austria if I remember correctly) and a cafe'. DELISH!</div>
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I spent some time shopping in Eataly and came away with shopping bags (reusable and insulated), balsalmic, candies, soaps, espresso spoons and some other food items.</div>
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Day 2:<br />
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We started off early on Wednesday because we had to catch our train back to Milano by 2pm. So after a fast breakfast at the dorm we headed back to the castle to meet with Sara for a historic tour of downtown. We went to the church that once housed the Shroud of Turino (the shroud said to be covering Christ's body after the crucifixion), as well as the palace and castle. We also went to the city square where some higher end shops now exist.<br />
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A cool part of the day was seeing the statue/fountain that was featured in the Italian movie Deep Red that we saw last week. :o)<br />
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After the tour I hobbled back to the dorm to pack up and get ready for lunch. Cathy and I returned to Eataly for one last go-round before our trip home. I got a veggie gnocchi dish which was okay but not my favorite. But I DID have one of the most amazing drinks of my entire life... espresso with chocolate fudge and fresh whipped cream (I'll have to ask Cathy the name of it again).<br />
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Our trip home was a bit longer (not a fast train this time), but it was a clear day so we could see the French Alps really well!!!<br />
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If I ever come back to Italy I'd want to spend more time in Turino. I really enjoyed the city and the architecture. :o)</div>
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Ciao!</div>
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Meg</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-78862084519921231252014-07-09T16:10:00.003-04:002014-07-09T16:10:50.935-04:00Weekend in Rimini: La Notte Rosa and Granitas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So who knew we would end up in the middle of a city holiday? :o)<br />
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So Cathy and myself left on Friday after work and took a three hour train ride to Rimini, Italy on the east coast off the Adriatic Sea.<br />
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We were staying at a super cute B&B run by Patrizia. The place was cute (except for the lack of AC) and only a block from the beachfront. Also... Patrizia's breakfasts were AMAZING. Simply amazing! I still dream of the cappuccinos.<br />
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So back to La Notte Rosa. This translates to the Pink Night and basically it's just a made up holiday by the people of Rimini. They chose pink to symbolize warmth, femininity, and hospitality since the city is known for being accommodating.<br />
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<br />Cathy went scuba diving on Saturday, leaving me to my own devices. I wandered to the beach where I found a TON of people ( many in banana hammocks... ick!). So I decided that instead of fighting for a beach chair, I'd wander out to a rock jetty off a sandbar. A 3 minute walk through the water (it was only knee deep). So I set up shop on the jetty and stayed there for a few hours dipping my feet in the sea and watching the people on the beach. Afterwards I wandered into town and bought a Notte Rosa shirt and settled in for lunch. It was close to when Cathy would return so I headed back toward the dive shop and got gelato at an artisan gelataria there. It. Was. Fabulous. I got strawberry (fragola) and I swear it was the best gelato I'd ever had.<br />
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<br />When Cathy came back I talked her into going to the gelataria again and I got a Granita fragola which is like a fruit slushy. Again... amazing.<br />
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While at the B&B we met a sweet girl from Canada named Sherri who was biking around Italy. She came out to dinner with us at a local restaurant where we consumed mass quantities of seafood... muscles, shrimp, squid, prawns and some homemade spaghetti. Va benne!<br />
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Gaia the mini schnauzer was an adorable addition to the weekend. During our last few hours in Rimini we lounged under an olive tree, where Gaia (aptly nicknamed schnauzerina) took the opportunity to sploot in the sun. If you don't know what splooting is, just look up corgi sploot. :) It's cute.<br />
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So mid-day on Sunday we trekked back to the train station and headed back to Milano. A fast weekend, but a wonderful one nonetheless.<br />
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Ciao,<br />
Meg<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-4417182481927659022014-07-07T09:41:00.000-04:002014-07-07T09:41:08.014-04:00Pavia<br />
Spending the day in Pavia was amazing and exhausting!<br />
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Ciao,<br />
Meg</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-50752655215480185492014-07-03T14:33:00.001-04:002014-07-03T14:33:41.127-04:00Movies, Mozart and Mozzarella <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
7/2/14</div>
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I see this little guy in the metro every day so I had to get a photo. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1QtI7YnqrH4jJ5Rex7lCCu7UMIw9BwJwgxZFTRNewc1iMOFtV8R33Ufs83EGz_kwvwpxQ-N0P6g2B8DvxxtowlNMZj-kVaf2c-EWm16TK7M3G0x4wkbPaUGltcuZ9Vzs0tyO-cFGLwXH/s1600/20140702_041408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1QtI7YnqrH4jJ5Rex7lCCu7UMIw9BwJwgxZFTRNewc1iMOFtV8R33Ufs83EGz_kwvwpxQ-N0P6g2B8DvxxtowlNMZj-kVaf2c-EWm16TK7M3G0x4wkbPaUGltcuZ9Vzs0tyO-cFGLwXH/s1600/20140702_041408.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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This is a morning requirement...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhVXRvisTvvKjNKHgvt3nOOhDQsq3ycbQw0Japlw1Qn082kzj39fIpuSD1lXM5zD4664f2k-hSOoiIjhpFeCxDhO8ssC4xSdHGrKLxlaUeANelUOV_gbkvgl9N_vMYd9g8O3Jc8BFnYET/s1600/20140702_052305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhVXRvisTvvKjNKHgvt3nOOhDQsq3ycbQw0Japlw1Qn082kzj39fIpuSD1lXM5zD4664f2k-hSOoiIjhpFeCxDhO8ssC4xSdHGrKLxlaUeANelUOV_gbkvgl9N_vMYd9g8O3Jc8BFnYET/s1600/20140702_052305.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a>Part of the students' job here is to watch films and lectures and fill out corresponding worksheets. We saw a drama, a comedy (which I loved) and a horror movie called Deep Red. It was SO terrible, I just loved it! It was an Italian horror film from the 1970s with poor subtitles and random switching from English to Italian. Not to mention the uber red fake blood and superior acting. BUT, I still really enjoyed the movie! There was a creepy ass doll in it that will likely haunt my dreams for years, but the movie itself was not scary. However, offering a running commentary on it while watching was entertaining.<br />
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So when we took a break for lunch, Cathy, Judy and I went across the street from the university and walked past this old church that Mozart once played in. SUPER AWESOME!<br />
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We went to a music conservatory and found their little sandwich shop for a quick bite.<br />
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After class let out, Cathy and I wandered into downtown to pick up symphony tickets and to stop for a mid-day snack. We found our way to Luini's near the Duomo for some panzorotti... which can only be described as amazing hot pockets. I got hot salami and mozzarella and a ricotta and chocolate. DELISH!<br />
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When we finally got home, we relaxed a bit and then went next door for aperitivio (the equivalent of happy hour / appetizers). Basically you buy a drink and then get a variety of things to snack on while socializing. So the delightful Roberto and Marco were our bartenders who made a wicked awesome rum and coke for me and a mojito for Cathy. We stood around for about an hour, sampling the food and people watching. I noticed something about Italy... they give you a little coke with your liquor and not the other way around. I was one and done!<br />
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So that evening I wasn't super hungry so I just ordered delivery from Santa Maria 1. Caprese salad and red wine. THEY DELIVER WINE. 6 Euros! Fantastico!<br />
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Ciao,<br />
MegAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-3245154989720416702014-07-01T16:14:00.000-04:002014-07-01T16:19:27.776-04:0010,000lbs Later: Good Eats and Ordering Gelato<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9GcExwLJz0ysQAutU9YH77bz0RYk6vUcEVxAU1bqqvpXZsGe_lVfGNCrt5xwV2websi9yoE2bggwuYmEEM6ckLGulADYHyygu7ThasUFfd3cWiz5HpmgIxJAq9N_T-toRad8z3jX3BT0f/s1600/20140630_041531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9GcExwLJz0ysQAutU9YH77bz0RYk6vUcEVxAU1bqqvpXZsGe_lVfGNCrt5xwV2websi9yoE2bggwuYmEEM6ckLGulADYHyygu7ThasUFfd3cWiz5HpmgIxJAq9N_T-toRad8z3jX3BT0f/s1600/20140630_041531.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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6/30/14</div>
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This trip will be a burden on my already Botticelli-esque body. I am consuming mass quantities of pasta, bread, wine and gelato. At this rate I'll have to buy an extra plane seat for my right butt cheek. </div>
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But on the flip-side, I am walking between 2-4 miles every day. Today my arches are on fire because I probably walked 4 miles today in flip flops. </div>
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BUT, another benefit of getting all this food... I'm learning how to order it in Italian. :) The other day we went for gelato and I was able to order all of it in Italian (I got salted caramel creme btw). I know I butchered the emphasis a bit, but the woman understood me. It was molto bene!!!</div>
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P.S. I can see the Alps today from my room... :)</div>
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7/1/14</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW75PYQGAKCqw63oJ2tcyCSfUp_-4S7aAmnLLAug2c0ewnNhFYcraWPhSo21fNGPNO35GufINP9MfTMU6ZKiT9rI0K9oI4b3eCczirD8YSIuuB1qiimGxOkvq0Pk5tzou0hMwqPeYnSXom/s1600/20140630_070100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW75PYQGAKCqw63oJ2tcyCSfUp_-4S7aAmnLLAug2c0ewnNhFYcraWPhSo21fNGPNO35GufINP9MfTMU6ZKiT9rI0K9oI4b3eCczirD8YSIuuB1qiimGxOkvq0Pk5tzou0hMwqPeYnSXom/s1600/20140630_070100.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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So today we trekked early to the marketplace across town. After a fairly long (and humid) metro ride on the red and green line, we made it. Cathy is not a big shopper, so she peaced out quickly whereas I reveled in the flea market set up. It was an entire street of vendors shouting in Italian and attempting to sell to the tourists. </div>
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I actually am quite proud of myself! I spent 54E on a shirt, skirt, sandals, sunglasses, a purse, a wallet and two gifts for friends. </div>
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The shopper in me is doing a happy dance.</div>
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So now I am calling it a night and just waiting on my laundry to finish up. </div>
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Buona Notte,</div>
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Meg</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-2892872304213922752014-07-01T15:39:00.000-04:002014-07-01T15:39:14.627-04:00Duomo Milano<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Have you ever seen a work of art so beautiful that it almost made you ache? Maybe you have to be a history buff, or an artist or architect... or just a lover of those things. But for me, going into downtown Milan and seeing the Duomo in person for the first time was an awe inspiring experience.<br />
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Photos don't do it justice at all.<br />
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So after we were done for the day, we went downtown to the Duomo metro stop and got out to look around. Emerging from the underground, you end up in the middle of what you would think of as "Italy" in your mind. Beautiful people, tourists, old buildings and the duomo, pigeons cooing and the clinking of wine glasses. It was what I imagined I would find here. Of course, this is only a small part of the city, and there are areas that remind me more of DC, but the duomo area is Italy to me.<br />
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We had our welcome dinner at a pizza place downtown and proceeded to attempt to consume upwards of 20 pizzas. With some success.<br />
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After dinner, Cathy, Judy, Pete and I walked around the duomo and marketplace. After Peter went back home the ladies and I went for a wine and a walk around. I had some epic (and expensive) Moscato (Thanks Judy!!!)</div>
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But alas, sleep comes quickly</div>
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Ciao</div>
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Meg</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-67894780833240514372014-06-30T12:50:00.001-04:002014-06-30T12:50:47.576-04:00Getting to Know You!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With 18 students and two faculty, it's hard to not only remember names, but to know any little thing about anyone. Thankfully I've had three students in class before and a few others I've seen for advising.<br />
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Regardless, today we wandered about our part of town and then did some ice breakers.<br />
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Sadly, it's Sunday here and it looks that many Italian businesses observe the day of rest as such. Everything was closed. But with the rain, it was okay to be inside for a jaunt today.<br />
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After lunch, the group met up in the garden behind the building and did some getting to know you activities. Some of which involved running around in a circle like idiots. Apparently a group of Italian guys found this entertaining and set up shop to watch us. lol.<br />
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The last shot is my favorite. Caitlin and Josh mid-run. </div>
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So basically it was a "Truth or Truth" type game, where someone in the middle of the circle had to say something true about them. If anyone else around the circle had the same thing true about them, they would have to run across the circle to an open spot. The last one to find a spot was the next person to say something true about themselves. :) It was fun and a good way to get to know people. </div>
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More later.<br />
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Ciao!</div>
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Meg</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6713943071879142158.post-36310632485632955822014-06-29T09:43:00.001-04:002014-06-29T09:43:28.488-04:00Gimme Pasta! And Wine!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzIxSzy8T0UCeugGY-bgWMgq50EBrK10VeOqiQqXYb7moe9p_ADzszwZBC92sDaNvKKn8uxsV5mmTc0UKzjz0YcUykK_qyT4FIixbd-EfsNHEMH6Z7mgJSogNfokGUwp8Ske58pSUHhAZS/s1600/100_4181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzIxSzy8T0UCeugGY-bgWMgq50EBrK10VeOqiQqXYb7moe9p_ADzszwZBC92sDaNvKKn8uxsV5mmTc0UKzjz0YcUykK_qyT4FIixbd-EfsNHEMH6Z7mgJSogNfokGUwp8Ske58pSUHhAZS/s1600/100_4181.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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I can see how this is going to go. I've been in Italy for 2.5 days and 80% of my meals have consisted of pasta and wine. How typical. ;)<br />
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But really, can you blame me? It's ITALY!<br />
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So after the first night, I slept like a baby. I still feel a bit of jet lag, but much better off than I was. Saturday consisted of unpacking (I'll have to take photos of my room), and getting acquainted with the students as they came trudging in from their flights.<br />
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Cathy and I walked over to the Penny Market next door, which is a mini grocery store. I picked up some Coke Light (Diet Coke), Sparkling water, cheese x3, chocolate wafers, bread, sammich meat, TP, etc and some WINE... minus the wine opener. Drats.<br />
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I spent a mere 14Euros on that! Yay for Penny Market!<br />
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Last night we wandered about for food, but many restaurants here don't open until 7pm. So as the rain started to soak us, we passed a gelato place that was open. So gelato time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
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I ended up getting Latte' flavor, and Chocolate Noir (which is the darkest dark chocolate I've EVER seen). It was fantabulous. </div>
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Finally, 7pm hit and we made our way to La Martesana for dinner, where I feasted on some Gnocchi and red wine. With a HUGE tiramisu for dessert. </div>
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We wandered home as a group and settled in for the evening. </div>
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And apparently I only talked about food today... hmm. Fancy that.</div>
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Ciao,</div>
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Meg</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02918515950285886928noreply@blogger.com0