La Dolce Giusti: 2010-10-31

Altavilla, where we had lunch with Marzia and Antonella's family on Friday. 15 minutes outside of Palermo.

We are feeling particularly at home in Palermo because of the incredible generosity and hospitality offered by everyone that we have met. Beginning with the purple-pantsed gentleman on our shuttle from the airport who turned out to be a language professor at the local university, we have been incredibly spoiled by kindness ever since.

A teacher at Meredith's school arranged for us to stay with the Jesuits during our overwhelming first week, then she took us to a Sicilian party in the country on our first night. We were fed heavy portions of authentic dishes, all of which were lauded as the region's finest, then we washed it down with 80s pop and choreographed dances corresponding to music from around the world. Given the age range of participants, the dance moves are likely genetic.
The hours for government offices, banks and post offices are less consistent than Tony Romo, but the customer service is a welcomed respite from the DMV.
We are regularly invited to family meals, which bare a strong resemblance to Thanksgiving in terms of preparation, quantity, and quality.
Trips to summer homes on the coast or in the country have been offered by five different individuals within the two weeks that we have been settled.
Two recreational soccer teams will allow me to make a fool of myself on the pitch after I purchase cleats and parastinchi (shinguards).
In addition to his flexibility regarding our 1^st month's rent and security deposit, our landlord sat us down with a map and pointed out the best of everything in the city. He followed up the next week with a flatscreen television and brand new washing machine. No one has dryers, so I'm mastering the clothespin.
Our roommate Ivy, who deserves much of the credit for the stellar pictures, has brightened our experience by sharing in the incredible highs and mild frustrations associated with getting settled. She fancies dirty martinis, dark beers, and telephoto lenses.
Two of Meredith's language partners, Marzia and Antonella, double as our personal shoppers. Upon mentioning that she was looking for shoes, Meredith was taken to several shops, introduced to all the owners, and given generous discounts. When I mentioned in passing that I might need a jacket in the winter, a tour of the best shops was provided, along with style commentary that drifted into social commentary: “We Italians do good food and fashion. You Americans do good music and military.” I guess that settles the guns vs. butter debate.
Davide, another language partner, has taken us to a soccer game, introduced us to the city's unique flavors, and utilized his expertise in finance to help us get our bank account opened. He was unable, however, to protect us from a brutal exchange rate. Federico, a friend of Ivy's from the hospital, has provided incredible civics and history lessons regarding the city which will be detailed in subsequent posts.