October 28th-30th, Socked in in Lucca

The last couple days have given us horrific and extremely moody weather...with thunderstorms, winds, then a tease of sun, and a return to sudden downpours. We have tried to wander out when we get a small break to get some exercise, go for coffee, the internet and coffee. On the 30th, we checked out of our digs, stored the bike there for 4 days, and met our Servas host, Carmine Parella. ...a psychologist and a dear. He works alot with his patients with art and drama therapy, including Playback Theater, which Elaine was first exposed to at the Healing and Storytelling Conference in Minneapolis a couple years ago. He met us at his place at 2, within the city walls, we talked, he showed us around his place, and gave us the key to make ourselves comfortable. We offered to cook that night and he was happy to have us do so. Elaine made her pasta and artichoke dish and we sat up until midnight talking. Fortunatley, he offered us to stay here for 4 days until we check into our next and FINAL flat on Monday, which is very nearby. We have been blessed, especially given the weather situaion. We were unable to find room in Lucca for these 4 days, due to a huge Comics and Games convention here...everything is booked solid.