So, quick State of the Sardinia update with hopefully America recaps to come!
I am here, I’m teaching tiny bits and pieces here and there. Just this weekend I said no to an opportunity for steady, contractual employment at a great looking school in favor of the folks who have been so good to me through this process, an environment I love, students I adore, and the flexibility they provide me. Now, when I start whining about money again in the next few months, remind me that they only pay me when I work. And if there’s no work, there’s no pay.
But for now, I’m working a little here and there and trying to find a sense of calm. The last week has been spent sleeping, visiting, interviewing, teaching, eating, and spending hours and hours of time waiting to begin the process for my Permesso – again. After what amounts to about 2 full working days of effort between myself and Paolo, it seems to be in order though – at least this part of it.
I do though, owe it to interested readers to say this – it is unquestionably easier and less expensive to be in this country illegally. Take from that what you will, and the consequences if caught are steep – but the thousands of dollars, and hundreds of hours given by friends, family, and myself so that I can legally be in this country for the next 8 months is infuriating. And the spending isn’t finished yet.
I’ve been living with Paolo’s family (they graciously stored my things for me while I was gallivanting around America and waiting for my visa and passport to come back to me) as the intended apartment will be ready September 1 instead of August 1. So tomorrow (I think) I’ll be heading over to a friends to crash for a few weeks until that gets sorted out.
I picked Italy to practice patience, right? Sigh….
All in all though, I am delighted to be back – touching down in a place that was 84 with 30% humidity was a welcome change from the hottest on record everrrrr temperatures in Raleigh. The tomatoes in San Sperate have exploded, as have the green peppers and figs. There are still plenty of peaches to be eaten, and pomegranates aren’t too far away at all. I have eaten at least my weight in cheese, olives, pane carasau and even had the great fortune of discovering a restaurant/bar with an excellent selection of craft beers. In, San Sperate of all places.
The beaches that two months ago seemed so empty are now packed to their very gills and will continue to be for at least a few more weeks as all of Italy moves into Ferragosto time. Though oddly I’ve only managed to make it to the beach twice so far.
Other than that, I’m trying to tap out something worth reading about my traveling life for my friend Mehdy over at The Hostel Life, and learn everything I can about teaching English to a dyslexic teenager who has become a new student of mine.
I had an amazing time at home, which I will give you a whole blog post on later, but for now, just lots and lots of love for everyone who helped make it amazing, helped welcome me, and definitely Paolo, and helped get me back here.
Some photos:
This beach:
Now looks like this:
Annnnd some yummy beer shots:
Mainland Italy, NYC, San Sperate...
