October 1st – October 9th
This time frame spans the remaining days spent in Bologna. The majority of our time was spent trying to blend into the daily Italian life. Unexpectedly, this boiled down to the simplicities of living. Great time and effort were placed on meal planning, as ingredients were bought fresh daily at small local markets. As we contemplated if this placed us into the Bolognese gastronomical culture, we quickly remembered our bountiful breakfasts, untypical of the simple cappuccino and croissant. We often searched out new Gelaterias daily in pursuit of the perfect gelato. Many disappointments were had when the craved after, dreamed of hot fudge was thought to be found, only to taste the ever present hazelnut/nutella, that cannot seem to be escaped. Thankfully, someone at last remembered the almond, which was glazed and blended into a smooth amaretto tasting cream (www.lasorbetteria.it/index_eng.php).
Balance was needed and sought after with the indulgence of such fine meals. Destination-less exploration of the city and long, winding runs through the country side around San Luca, helped provide this balance.
Nights were often filled with loosing ourselves in novels, mainly with Italian backdrops. Restlessness typically set in, with our minds wandering to home in the search of goals, accomplishments and other things missed. We remind ourselves of the pleasures of a slow, meaningful immersion into another culture, while knowing the return to our lives and friends in Madison (and beyond) will be greatly welcomed.