Yeah, yeah, yeah and all that

 I know Italians basically gave us great culture, food, architecture (hey think of the Roman arch), art, and music already. But it all pales in comparison to their greatest gift: the Aperitivo. I’m not joking. What a civilized thing to do - sit on a warm day, watching people go by, with a cool drink and some snacks while contemplating what you’re going to go eat for dinner in a few hours. OK and talking about the people going by. It’s like I’m so proud of my people for inventing this I can’t think of the superlatives to describe my pride.

Here we are enjoying the Italians greatest gift to man at Camparino in front of the Milano cathedral this afternoon. Fran, of course, has the Negroni and I have the Campari spritz. Not cheap but worth every penny. The Campari in Italy is richer than we get in the states - I’m not sure the difference but I want to ship some home.

Spent most of the day walking and getting our bearings between naps. We’re getting there. 

Ate dinner at a decent place (Locanda la Scala - behind the la Scala theater) - worth a stop, not earth shattering but good risotto, pork belly, and osso bucco. Wine was pricy (for Italy) but a decent selection. Head waiter was humorous, spoke at least five different languages, and was spread a bit thin with little help. A fun few hours with Fran just talking but our legs got tired of sitting.