Live and learn

Live and Learn — Part I

Right across from our bus stop is a place with a sign in the window that says:

English Buffet Breakfast
10 Euros
To 7:30

I know Italians have different hours than Americans, but closing a breakfast buffet at 7:30? That seemed strange. I was curious — and hungry for something other than croissants and doughnuts - so I stopped by the buffet about 8 this morning.

It was open. In fact, it opened at 7:30.

I had the place practically to myself, and enjoyed the sliced ham, salami, cheese, hardboiled eggs, muffins, and fruit.

And to top it off, they only charged me 8 Euros.

Live and Learn — Part II

The waitress asked me if I’d like coffee or milk. That was a no-brainer for me. I don’t like coffee, and I hadn’t tasted — or even seen — milk since I left the States 12 days ago.

She went behind the counter, and I heard the blender whirring while I filled my plate. I thought she must have been getting somebody else’s order first. But a few minutes later she returned with my milk - a steaming frothy brew.

I didn’t dare ask for orange juice.