Do you remember how I said yesterday that I heard the bar/restaurant downstairs was really accommodating and such? Well, not only did we get free food the entire time we sat there, but they charged us only 5 euro for a cocktail and a gelato. We basically got an entire dinner, a cocktail, and dessert for 5 euro. They just kept bringing food to our table and smiling. They were so nice! We are actually going back in a few hours because we love them!

We sat there for quite a few hours doing what Italians do best: drinking, eating, and laughing. From my position in my chair, I made extensive eye contact with the cute waiter who was off work, but playing cards with the owners of the restaurant at another table. He kept smiling at me between the hands of his poker game. He’s so cute! Unfortunately, this town is so small that everyone knows everything. I can’t imagine trying to date anyone in the city while living here.

Besides, I told Filippo that I would be coming to see his hometown, Prato, in Tuscany next weekend. I didn’t think we’d see each other, but I thought I could recommend a place or two. Instead, he sent me this insanely kind email about how he will find my friends and me a hostel and show us around. I wasn’t expecting it. His email ended with something along the lines of, “I really must see you.” How romantic Italians are! I really want to see him. Being here for a week and people watching everyday, I’ve realized he is definitely one of the better-looking Italians.

Maybe I’ll end up like the people I see in those weddings I pass by every other day. Last evening I saw a blonde American in a cream dress that flowed like water down to the ground. She was marrying an Italian. They took photos on the rocks that overlooked the ocean and my friends and I looked on with jealousy. Not only were they both insanely fashionable, but he looked at her like she was the only woman in the world. The only person in the world. We can only hope for that kind of love for ourselves.

I got another email from Matt yesterday. He said that everyone at home missed me, but no one more than him. Nothing is the same without me. It’s all very sweet of course, but being back in Italy reminds me that this is where I belong. Unless Matt plans on moving with me, it would never work. I long for that aggressive passion that is the Italian way. It’s my way. I feel I must live here for the men (they are my type both physically and mentally), the food, the culture, the music, the history, and the overall feeling here. When that plane landed, I knew I was home again. With some careful planning and saving, I’m going to try to return this winter for a few weeks. I have to.