Josh and I are exploring Rome by bike, and today we rode over to the Prati neighborhood which is known for it's wide boulevards, Franco-Roman architecture, and shopping. We even found a north/south bike path over there. Our neighborhood, the Parioli, is just north of the Villa Borghese. Prati is due West of the Piazza del Popolo - just across the Tevere - and is therefore sort of adjacent to Parioli.
One store located on Cola di Rienzo in the Prati neighborhood and well-known by foreigners, is called Castroni and carries all sorts of international foods. The store is organized by cuisine type: Mexican, German, French, Asian, American, etc. and it was really fun to explore. In the "American" section you could find (crap) peanut butter, pop-tarts, cake and pancake mix. But we're not missing Betty Crocker enough (or at all) to spend 5.50euros for a small box of pancake mix.
There is also a major department store, Coin, located on the same street, along with all kinds of clothing, home goods, and jewelry stores. We were interested in inspecting the "local" prices instead of those found in the more touristy centro. My conclusion is as follows: the only inexpensive items to be had in Italy right now are prosciutto, parmesan cheese and mozzarella di bufalo. And that's about all. At least we are eating well.
The kids came home from school today absolutely bushed. Avery was catatonic and proceeded to nap for three hours, missing dinner. Perhaps the long days and activities have caught up with him. He is so adorable and sweet though AFTER his naps.
Charlotte, too, was whining about being tired and thus, skipped swim practice to call it an early night.
Olivia, as always, complained about doing her homework and wanted to take whatever shortcuts possible. Such is life with three very different little personalities.
A presto
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