Friday, July 5, 2013

Old Habits Die Hard (and Grease Increases Thigh Size.)

Today is July 4th. Independence Day in the United States. Special for parades, and family BBQ's. Makes me miss American hot dogs, s'mores, and coke. (Which is odd, because I am a vegetarian that does not drink soda.)

We have decided to celebrate this occasion while in Italy, we will round up all the Americans we know, and head to the American diner, new to the town of Pontedera.  They are trying rather hard to make it authentic. I get to the be the judge.

The two Americans from work, and our Welsh colleague found the perfect place, and planned to meet at work at 9. Along with all our better halves. 5/6 were there, and we ended up waiting on the one I'm with. For a half hour. When he finally came, I wanted to be livid, but I could not. It was the bus systems fault, and that is just another reason to celebrate the US.

We arrive at a 50s diner, pretty excited to gorge ourselves.  I order of milkshake and everyone else votes for beer.  Every person orders a burger, (mine, of course, vegetarian.)


 We enjoy great conversation with some wonderful people. It's nice to celebrate American Independence Day with 3 Americans, 1 Brit, and 2 Italians.
 
The festivities make me miss a few things about being home:
1. This weekend is my family reunion. My entire family is in my hometown, enjoying each other, and I miss them.
2. I miss my girlfriends. I missed a wedding, a homecoming, and a send off. I miss being a friend.
3. Free public restrooms.
4. Bonfires.
5. Free refills on drinks.
 
And now, I must enjoy my weekend with my company, as we go explore Cinque Terre.  But to all the expats out there reading, remember to do something to remind you of home.  You may realize how much you appreciate it.


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