just another week in paradise...

Last week, Sara, Brian and I took the train over to Genova to see the acquarium. It was supposed to be the biggest in Italy and our hopes were high but it didn't quite compare to the acquarium in Tampa. We had a good time, saw the fish, some cute seals and dolphins, stingrays, jellyfish and a 3D movie on sharks. Nearby there is also an ancient ship that we got to explore. Kind of made me want to be a pirate. Later in the week Sofia taught me how to make polpette - meatballs! I just hope I remember how when I get back home... Another night we had a big dinner with Sofia, Carlo, Sara, Ivano (a captain on a huge sailboat who's been staying at the hotel), and Murielle (his first mate), Edele (the maid at the hotel), and her daughter, Maria Elena. We've been so happy that we get to eat with this sweet family all the time. The food in the Italian home is so much better than eating out. Carlo is a butcher and so we eat a lot of meat. He was very excited about the pieces of steak he had cut for Brian and Ivano. Sofia also fixed a gnocchi (handmade!) with ragu this week that was delicious. Sara showed us this beautiful park nearby that we've loved to ride our bikes through or find a spot to read. We also took our bikes over to Torre de Lago (about an hour) one day and toured the home of Puccini! It was so cool because it was turned into a museum one year after his death and everything is the same as when he lived there. I loved seeing the piano on which he composed Tosca, Turandot, Boheme, the actual sheets of paper he sketched his notes, his diplomas and awards from all over the world. Brian also liked his hunting boot collection. There are fantastic photos of him in his cars and boats and with other composers and performers of the day. Unfortunately we weren't allowed to take pictures inside to share it with you all, but I can tell you it was wonderful. A few weeks ago we went and got a picture of the beautiful garden outside if you want to look back in the albums.

After the girls from California left, things have been nice and quiet at the hotel. Hopefully it stays that way... We've posted some pictures of the week; Brian wanted to make sure he got proof that I cooked something. If only you could have tasted it...

Miss you all,

Jessica and Brian

3D glasses

The park where we go for bike rides - pineta

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