Ferragosto

Well finally here in Connecticut it actually feels like summer. Hot, humid and a little bit stifling. This to me is perfect summer weather. Sure it wreaks havoc on my hair which is not quite straight but not curly either and yes it makes me wish that I had central air. But more than anything, it reminds me of Italy and particularly Rome. Though I usually would spend the month of August back in the States, I did have a few occasions to find myself in the Eternal City for the hottest month of the year. It was not unusual for the temperature to hit 100 for several days straight. While this may seem like a true inferno for many, for me it turned Rome into the city I love the best. A city that slows down because in that heat, you can't do anything but slow to a snail's pace. Rome is surprisingly quiet during August as most Italians hit the road and spend a good part of the month at the shore. Those who are left make the best of a bad situation. Every square inch of sidewalk is used for outdoor seating at restaurants and cafes which come to life at about 10 PM when it has cooled off enough to even contemplate having dinner. No one expects you to do much all day - meet for an early morning coffee, eat a lemon granita, duck into a church less for the religion and more for the fact that these solid rock structures stay refreshingly cool and then maybe lounge in the Villa Borghese with a good book. The jazz clubs move outdoors, there are movies playing in the main squares of the city and any thought of sleep until the wee hours is put aside during these dog days of summer. Sound pretty civilized, doesn't it? Unfortunately there is not a sidewalk cafe to be found here in New London that is open at 3 AM - guess I will have to wait for my next August trip to Rome - can't wait!