Type A's.

First an apology for the delay in posting. We have been exceptionally busy and not around the computer much and when we have, Hannah has been busy downloading photos and doing homework.

Thus said, Italy is getting better and more exciting by the day. She is waking up... I feel like I am covered in bruises from pinching myself to make sure all is real. To summarize, Randy's brother Al and his wife Des arrived last Friday, the 8th, Rachael left early on Saturday 9th for Austria for 5 months. We were in the Cinque Terre from Tuesday to Thursday and Maranello, the home of Ferrari on Friday, with Al and Des departing yesterday morning, the 16th. All of these experiences are worth a blog each, therefore this first one will be just about North American, Type A personalities in Italy.

They do not mesh well. Period. Unless Mr. or Ms. Type A is willing to undergo character development or let go. To quote Rachael, "Traveling is not a vacation here!" Expectations need to be either thrown out the train window or anticipated as a dessert. Just because you all order primi piatti (first course), is no guarantee that they will all come at the same time. Tip for future traveler; order your plates and just enjoy them , in the order they come. You have no control. Expect the train to be late or take longer than scheduled and rejoice when it doesn't. 

Also, if the restaurant or car rental store says it will be open or advertises a product, don't hold your breath, it may not... yet... a little later.... they will. 

The plaguing question is why?

My humble opinion is simply that Italians are creative and passionate. In creativity and passion there is little credence for time.  The strength of the Italian culture breeds this mindset and thus, cutting edge fashion, ultimate cars, and world renowned artists flourish.  The weak side is poor service and the lack of value for time management. Type A's feel frustration and a loss of control.  It is not a disrespect although it is perceived as such. 

I must say, Randy, Hannah and I now just laugh and wait for the serendipitous and amusedly watch new tourists working this out.