So my usual Saturday mornings in Firenze consist of many things, so many things that some would think it to be not very relaxing; but surrounded by this atmosphere I try to make the most of my Saturdays here and set aside my Sundays for church and resting.
So the day starts early, anytime from 6 o'clock until 7 o'clock rise from sleep to have breakfast and catch up on the news. I prepare my list of necessary items from the market. Shopping bags in hand I bike to Saint Lorenzo, just five minutes away, to shop and see my usual vendors on the early mornings. I first found my favorite butcher, whom is always mobbed and doesn't speak an ounce of English. I do my best to convey what I want and get the chicken pieces I want for the week.
I then go around the corner to my bakery woman. There are always tons of Americans swarming around the counter. You can spot an Italian versus and American by what they order. A typical Italian orders enough food for the day or for a meal, and American orders for the month. It is either they eat all that in one sitting or they have the nature to hoard what ever they need for food, just in case. It is too funny, I still stock up on milk and cereal, it's a habit I cannot break, I love it. So I get my usual cornettos, one filled with cream and one with marmelade.
Before I exit the Central Market I find the dried fruit and nuts guy. He is right near the exit next to where I park my bike. Today and only for a short time does he have these treats I am fond of. My obsession with figs has grown since my arrival of their season here in Italy. He has dried figs and sage leaves on a skewer. They are delicious. They taste so good, something to definitely be jealous about.
After my jaunt to the Central Market I must ride home and get ready for my yoga class. Today we are working on our sun salutations. After my week in the vineyard I am sure that I am sore and need the stretching to correct any poor postures from the week. The class is invigorating as usual and I am able to be present and rest. After class I make my way to "the oven" the one and only bakery I shop at outside of the central market. There I get a panino and a few snacks, I will supply pictures in a moment. I sit in the piazza and people watch while I eat my lunch. Sunny day, a seat in the piazza and panino in hand, it doesn't get any better than this. After a few moments of retail therapy, I return home to prep for my homework and dinner this evening. Quite the eventful day. I am glad that I am welcomed home to a hot cup of tea and a blog to fill you all in on.
It was a great day today, I cannot wait for my trip to Venice tomorrow. Who would have thought after all the treats I got to share in today that tomorrow would bring sweeter treats, those of Venice. So much for the usual church and resting. It's a reward for my hard work on the vineyards and of course for you all too, I am sure you are dying to hear about what's in Venice. So stay tuned and I will do my best to bring extra batteries for the camera!
Ciao regazzi!
