Ok, I just got finished writing a giant update and then my internet closed before I could save and post. So this will have to be much shorter. Everyone here vacates the beach in the afternoons because the sun is too hot, so I get a few hours off as well. The parks are full of people napping on benches in the shade and all of the shops close down from about 1p-4p. I usually spend my time taking a quick nap or getting things done, but today I thought I'd send you guys a quick update...and paint my toenails. :)

Life here in Liguria is finally beginning to become routine. The kids are in the groove of playing at the beach with other children and the girls do their homework in the afternoons. Claudio is finally sleeping a little longer so he's not as cranky during the days. And I was able to get him to use the toilet like a grown up a few days after we arrived here, so we've been working on trying to potty train him some! 

My heat rash has gotten better each day and my skin is finally healing. I have developed ways to fight the heat such as keeping a cold wet towel with me in my room. I also now know which doors and windows to keep open so that the air circulates through my upstairs room. Italians don't really use air conditioning so that's taken some getting used to for me as I'm very warm natured anyway. 

I have learned my way around Spotorno (which didn't take long) and I've also had the opportunities to explore neighboring towns like Savona, Bergeggi, Noli, Finale, and Allasio with my friends. They are all unique and beautiful in their own ways...and so full of history. There are still walls, gates, streets, and castles here that were built in the 900's. Via Aurelia is an amazing and beautiful drive that winds around the cliffs along the coastline all through Liguria. I still can't get over the views here! 

Well, I'm looking forward to another lovely weekend here with more exploring to do. Then before you know it, I've got my first visitor coming to see me next weekend and go to Cinque Terre. Can't wait! 

Alright, time to go back to the beach!