Note on driving: We all know Italians are fast behind the wheel. But I usually feel comfortable in any car I'm in here. Even when Raoul was speeding up the mountain last weekend and decided to "shazam" a song while doing it. Even when Nonna Grazia didn't see the car coming and it almost went through my door. No biggy. However, I do find it rather entertaining when Nonna Grazia can't parallel park in a spot big enough for a yacht, so decides she was close enough, puts it in park and clicks on her hazards. Good enough to run into the store! Whatever works around here.

Last night Irene asked if I wanted to go to her riding lessons today and see the horse she rides. Sure, sounds like a good evening. That lead to me being asked to go to lunch at Nonna Grazia's house beforehand. Sure, sounds great. I put it together after the fact that I would be with her for 8 hours. And with grandparents I don't really know and not sure if we can communicate. I was beginning to regret my decision. However, it turned out to be a really nice afternoon.

The grandparent's house is HUGE! Three floors with countless rooms (I saw a lot of doors upstairs) and about three living rooms to match. Huge pool and grounds with chickens and rabbits. It was rather impressive.

Lunch was good, as expected. I really have no idea how I'm fitting in all the food I'm eating. I thought we were only having spaghetti (we only have a pasta dish for lunch at the Santori's). So after I took seconds, out comes the chicken, salad and vegetables. And there are two kinds of chicken and guess who has to have both because they're different? (So I was told anyway) But I got away with only having one piece of one and a half of the other. And the greens, well, those are good for me anyway. Then a pear to round out the meal. And of course, espresso. And I didn't mind the glass of wine to go with it either. :)

These grandparents are equally as nice (as are the others who live downstairs). They speak some English so that helped. And they are big fans of NY so I have to like them on those terms alone! It was nice to have some bonding time with them. After lunch, Nonna helped Irene with homework and Nonno and I read, watched TV, relaxed on the couch. Tough afternoon. :) Then off to the horses. It was really cute to see Irene take care of the horse she rides and get excited by it.

Back home now for dinner and a quick lesson with Irene later. I'm off to Switzerland tomorrow - can't wait! I think so separation time will be good for everyone - at least I can say for me! :)