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It rained hard this weekend all over Italy. Tourists in Venice where we just were on Friday went swimming in St. Mark's square. It was the 5th worst flooding on record and while it does sort of look memorable, I am glad we got to stroll the streets ahead of the rain.
Speaking of Venice, our last experience there was pretty funny. I needed to see a doctor to refill a prescription. I had been avoiding the situation because I wasn't sure how to go about seeing a doctor and it also sounded less fun that sight-seeing. I couldn't put it off any longer and walked into a pharmacy to inquire about the process. They gave me directions to the local doctor. Two rights and look for his Porsche. There is his office! I walked into the waiting room where four old guys were ahead of me. No receptionist, just a waiting room. I asked if anyone spoke English because I wanted to make sure I was waiting in the right spot. No one did, but that didn't stop one guy from talking to me the whole time we were waiting. We had such a lively conversation, about what I don't know. I continually shrugged and he laughed. He kept talking on and on, even tried to share his cough drops. The more I looked at him I thought he could be my brother-in-law Robert's father, Artie's, twin. Venetian Artie told me with police sirens and writing ticket gestures that we could get a ticket where we parked across the street. I went outside to have Anthony move the car. When I came back, Venetian Artie was in with the doctor. He came out of the office and put his hand up to stop the next guy from going in and ushered me in to the office ahead of the others. They nodded their approval because I was the guest in their country. The best part was that one guy from the waiting room accompanied me into the office as if he was going to translate or something. Glad I wasn't there for anything personal (so I have this rash...)! My translator stood in the corner as I explained to the doctor that I needed a refill. He nodded and wrote out the prescription. The whole time we chatted using our common 10 words. "Obama?" I nod. "Obama's wife?" Yes. I like her. Taps his head. "She has a good brain." "Hurricane Sandy?" Very sad. I have family in NY. "Oh" Touches his heart. "Go to pharmacy for drugs. You pay me ten DOLLARS." Big joke. My translator in the corner and the doctor share a great laugh. I hand him 10 euro. 10 euro! No paperwork. What a deal. Venice-care sure has less paperwork than Obama-care!
Amy
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Pam Russo Hi Amy, This is a great story. And I especially like the reference to Venetian Artie, my dad! I've been following your blog and am so happy for you and impressed by what you have undertaken! It truly is like a dream come true. I look forward to hearing about more of your adventures. Best to you all, Pam
Amy Thanks Pam. I wish I had a picture of my new friend to show you!