Leaving the Womb

Forgive the long entry, but it’s been a bit since my last blog and I have a lot so say before I leave Mirandola~

I have to dedicate the title to my new English friend, James, who just recently arrived from Bristol only a few weeks ago. He has the same gig as I, so already he knows how comfortable and lavish life is for us Inglese here. When I say that I am leaving the womb, I truly am ‘leaving the womb.’ I’ve only had two weeks to get to know James and show him around Mirandola, but already I think he knows what’s in store for ‘im. Nevertheless, it’s good to hear an English accent again; they talk so fast and mutter a bit, but they’re funny as fuck.

What else can I say before leaving except that I am REALLY gonna miss the Benatti family. They are the kindest, most hospitable people that I have ever encountered. Both kids, Freddie and Nico are like little-brothers to me… we have done everything man: daily lessons, video games, tv/movies, exercise, dancing, wrestling and all kinds of mischief! Oy, so many good times- too many to name: I will miss Nico and all our conversations about Rap, girls, watching Southpark, S & la Citta, Guitar Hero II, working out… I will miss Freddy & his shining personality, all his questions- neverending questions! Playing Halo 3, teaching him how to defend against his bigger brother, fireworks, snowballs and all the mischief… I will miss Stefano and his optimistic personality- the man is ALWAYS happy! In fact, he still says to me “Don’t worry, be happy.” I try to buy my train ticket, or… I try to help clean up after the dinner, or… everybody is arguing… what does he say??? The latter… I will miss all the people of the office at Studio Benatti, they are so wonderful! I will sorely miss Eugenia and all her bantering with Freddy at the dinner table, the computer room, everywhere… She cares so much! I hope I have given her good advice for her kids and their education. I heart the Benatti family.

I am really gonna miss the friends that I’ve made here in Mirandola, and, for any of you reading: words cannot describe how much our time has meant to me: playing football, pizza, Teatro, Flammery, going to the discotech, Bologna… My offer permanently stands to any of you that want to come and visit me in the states; you can do so anytime upon my return. Paltro, I will never forget you my friend, and I want to wish you good luck in the future- keep it up with the painting and I hope you can make an impact in Italian politics (Cicciolina!!! Ehehe). Thanks for the wine…

And now, I am off to Roma for the 5th time! I am meeting some friends from Malham (UK), back when I was working at the field centre. We are gonna hit the town and this time when we go to the Trevi Fountian, I intend to throw a coin over my shoulder so that one day I can return. Although, I've come back many times and haven’t once thrown a coin.. and yet, somehow I always end up back here in Rome… so, maybe I won’t throw a coin….

Buona fortuna Mirandola!