Random Things About Italy

• According to Chiara, Italians think when Americans try to speak their language it sounds like we are talking with a potato in our mouth. Strange, I know.

• Italians don't know how to pronounce Matthew McConaughey. It sounds more like McCogney. 

• They also thought Ratatouille was pronounced with the "L" sound. Chiara asked what the name of the movie was. I said, "Ratatouille". She said, "No, this movie." I repeated my first answer. She then laughed and said, "Ohh, we call it Rat-a-tooly!" 

• My host family's alarm system is really cool. They have a device on the outside of their front door where you can insert a key to arm/disarm the alarm when leaving or entering without ever having to type in the code.

• When Italians count 1-2-3 on their fingers, they start with their thumb. Now I know why everyone was laughing that one time I was a photographer at the Italian family reunion. I counted 1-2-3 starting with my pointer finger.

• The other night at dinner Chiara said to me, "Now there's a real American plate with all your food together!" In Italy, only one type of food is on your plate at a time normally.

• Italians have to pay for grocery bags. They're not even the cool "Go Green" bags either. Just a regular plastic bag.

• Chiara asked, "Do Americans drink a lot of milk?" Apparently I drink a lot of milk.

• The Venice Carnival takes place every year in February/March. It dates back to the 15th century. Everyone dresses up in extravagant masks and costumes especially in Venice. Other towns celebrate with a smaller themed carnival and costumes. The children all dress up, as well. This year, Giorgia will be Jasmine. Chiara said, "I think I'm going to dress up Mattia as Bob Marley with the dreadlocks wig and a marijuana on his shirt! Just kidding!" Although, he really is going to be Bob Marley. She has already ordered his wig! 

• Apparently, horse is eaten in Italy. Marco said that before I arrived he read that Americans think it's strange to eat horse. He then asked if I wanted to try it one day.

• I tend to say, "Gotcha" a lot when talking with the parents. They'll say something and just to acknowledge that I understand I reply with "Gotcha". Well, apparently neither one of them knew what it meant. After like the 100th time of me using the word in conversation with them, they each finally asked me what it meant. Oops, I guess I shouldn't use slang words.

• Italians don't use a flat sheet. Only the fitted sheet and comforter. Well, at least this applies to my Italian host family.

• Why use chip clips when Scotch tape works just as well?!

• Chiara told me I could have any type of food for the Super Bowl. She then said, "What about that melted marshmallow with the chocolate thing?" She was referring to a S'more!