Another month gone by.

Well, February is over and March has begun. The weather is changing and I've been able to turn off the heat in the castle.   As usual, I had the best of intentions to post a blog before now, but once again life got in the way.  

This attending the university has really helped my Italian progress, but it is a real killer on my free time. I drive an hour plus there each morning and the same trip back home in the afternoon.  Classes are four hours per day and when I get home, I usually study for another four hours after lunch.  I wouldn't recommend this intensive course for anyone.  There is really no time to digest the information learned much yet put it into practice.  If I were to tell you I've been worn thin, I wouldn't be lying.  I've lost all sense of civility and have become grumpy.  Poor George is putting up with me because he knows I need to pass the CEFR by next October.   He is relying on me yet again for this.  The good news is, the government seems to have changed the laws so once I get my citizenship his is a walk in the park.  No language exam for him.  

The pressure I feel is immense.  So much so, I've sent out a few emails to folks that are probably on the rude side.  If you read this, you will know who I am talking about. I wish to offer my sincere apologies.  I am really at the end of the tether.  

In other news, George had his 80th birthday celebration.  We invited many of the new friends we have made since coming to Italy.  It was well received.  Needless to say, I made too much food as usual.  But then I had a brilliant idea!  Everyone got a tin and was able to bring home dinner for the next day as well.  This helped us not waste so much.  Next time though, I make half the food.  2 days of preparing is a bit much for a birthday party.  But all had fun so it was worth it!

Saturday the 8th of March was Women's Day. Our young Daniel gave me a lovely cake and bouquet of flowers.  He's so thoughtful.  

We had our friends Rudolf and Vasi over for dinner and those lovely men brought me some fresh eggs and vegetables from their garden.  A wonderful fresh gift!  

George had a cancerous growth removed and I had the first cataracts surgery done.  He can hear, and I can see!  Between us, we should be able to drive. 

George continues to unbox books but has slowed down this week to get ready for our trip to Sophia.  Work continues in the hotel and it looks like it will be done by mid April!  Fingers crossed!