Nigel

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Rough, awful, dreadful, painful, distressing, depressing, crappy, fearful. My first day in Rome.

Just because it was "Nigel" doesn't mean it as all good.

Simile perspective...

My first day in Rome was as fun as a horse on a stick.

My first day in Rome was as pleasant as sticking toothpicks under your fingernails.

My first day in Rome was as peaceful as William Hung singing you to sleep.

I was greeted at the airport by Carlo and his little Cardboard sign that read "Chanelle". The sign was unneccesary however, as his email description of himself "tall, slim, blonde guy" proved to be sufficient information for identification.

As per dads request, I snapped a picture of the license plate of the car I was getting into. Furthing my suspicion and paranoia.

We chatted about his children and his vineyard as we made the hour drive into Rome.

Rebeka wasn't flying out until the next morning so it was really nice to meet her and get some inside information as well as a short walking tour of a few places I'd need (the best gelato shop and the closest H&M...obviously).

The rest of the afternoon was lonely. I felt completely out of my element and comfort zone. Hardly anyone here speaks English and I'm certain that if I step outside and blink I won't be able to find my way back. These buildings and tiny streets all look the same! Note to self: get a map pronto.

We went for dinner around 8:30 after Costanza got off work. She is lovely. I love her to death for taking me to Lorgo di Torre Argentina on the way to dinner. This is basically some old ruins that has become a safe haven for hundreds of stray cats. Her English isn't as good as Carlo's, she asked me what "stray" meant. I told her it meant I was bringing a couple kittens back to the house.

We went to dinner in the Jewish Ghetto. Do I wreak of Jew? I have no idea why they chose this area. It was an absolutely gorgeous evening. The weather was perfect and my surroundings were surreal. I felt like I was back on the Univseral lot in Hollywood. Costanza ordered for me and joked around a lot with our waiter. I laughed politely having no idea what was being said.

We walked back home and I nearly cried myself to sleep. This place is so beautiful but it's very difficult dealing with the time difference and not being able to communicate with anyone from home the way I'd like to. The language barrier is crippling. I feel homebound because I have absolutely no lay of the land and no one to explore with.

I know things will get better but it will take time for me to adjust. The kids are still at their grandmother's house by the sea. I will go to the seaside and meet them this weekend. It'll be nice to get into a routine once they start school on Monday. This week I will check out the language school and enroll in a couple classes.

I love you all and miss you so much. Video tour of the house coming soon.

hugs

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Photos

Horse on a Stick
Yippeee...not

William Hung
Pleeeease sing "She Bangs" ONE more time?!

License Plate
So stealthy

Comments

[CaptnAntilles]

Awwww...
Cheer up, buttercup! I emailed you something! You're a magnificent writer yourself! We should co-author :)

[Julie]

Juuuust saw this email, haha!
What the heck your blogs are amazing! I miss you sooo much and i am going to try and see if you are on before work tomorrow morning. Which is is 3:30 your time on Wednesday. If not i will try the next morning because it seems during the week days early will be the best time to reach you. Hope we can sort out a regular time soon! XX