[DDuff]

Reflections on beads 21 - 28:

Bead 21: All I can really say is Amen and Amen! I think the American experience is so work oriented that we sometimes miss out on even the smallest of life's pleasures. This bead reminded me so much of my workaholic DH who even on a beach vacation can't just enjoy the sun. If there is any pool volleyball game, he's in on it. Bocce Ball - yep he's there. I found this bead so funny I love the comparisions between US and Italian ideals. You deserve a break today - Yeah, no duh. It reminds me of why as American women we have such a hard time telling someone No. We always feel like we have to qualify it with a reason. I'm guessing that in Italy that isn't the case. You don't want to help with the bake sale - you just say no - not I'm so sorry I can't right now I have to provide snack for the soccer time and chaperone the junior class lock-in.

Bead 22: I love her exploration of the use of sexual relationships as a type of emotional avoidance. I do think it is possible to have a period of self exploration while having sex but not in her case. Her discussion of her boundary issues makes that pretty clear.

Bead 23: I was actually reading this while my son was watching the Euro Cup. I know nothing about futbol but she does an excellent job of describing the fans. I'm always amazed at the sheer masses of spectators at these events. She is just like any kid - some of the best parts of learning a foreign language are learning some really good swear words.

Bead 24 - I found myself wishing I had this book on tape so that I could actually hear how the words are pronounced.

Bead 25: This is the bead that really started me thinking - Hey, I think I'd like to visit Italy.

Bead 26: I got a laugh out of this one because after we moved to Canada - it was their postal service that used to really bug me. I really never got over it the whole time we lived there.

Bead 27: MMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!!! PIZZA!!!!!!!!! Sorry, if you asked me the one food that I honestly could never live without it is probably pizza. I love it love it love it. Another reason to visit Italy.

Bead 28: I guess this bead just made me very proud of Liz. I said good for you Liz. She did an excellent job of describing the fall out of her decision.