Gavi

Balbina and I boarded our train at 8:10 and by 8:25 were flying through beautiful Italian countryside on our way to Novi. An hour later when we arrived at the train station, we met Pedro and Sandra. They picked us up and took us to their house in the small town of Gavi. (only 10 minutes from Novi) The town has a little over 5,000 people and is divided into two sides: the newer side built about 100 years ago and the old side built in medival times or a little after...maybe around 1400's can't remember) When we arrived at there house I nearly fell over when we entered. It was the most inviting warm beautiful space I have ever seen. They have lived in over 10 countries and have traveled to so many places that they have lost count. Their house is a tangible scrapbook of their travels and is amazing to see all the wonderful treasures they have accumulated over 60 years. Once I got my breath back we went for a walk around the town and visited the local church and the city hall because last night they had the grand opening of the new building's renovation. They weren't too happy with the new site because the mayor used the money to improve the city hall but has done nothing for the sewer system or roads....
We stopped at a cafe for a morning cappucino and then finished our walk. Our conversation felt like I had known them all my life. We went back to their house and talked some more over a wonderful glass of sparkling white wine (my favorite). Gavi and surrounding areas are known for their white wine and the countryside is filled with vineyards. We went down to there sun deck for a wonderful lunch Sandra prepared for us. We had spinach pasta with a white mushroom sauce, a typical Peidmont meat dish, salad, gelato with strawberries and almond cookies. After lunch we went for a ride up to the highest point above the city and took some pictures (don't worry I will let you know when they are put on the website). Then we drove through the areas filled with the vineyards. They dropped us off at the largest outlet mall in Europe and we did a little shopping. The trip was a success because I bought a pair of ski pants and matching gloves for an incredible price. The pants are awesome because they have the Torino 2006 winter olympic sign on them and make me look like I was an olympian ("I coulda been a contender"). They picked us up and took us to Novi where we had tappas-Happy hour and then to the train station. Our train was late so Sandra transfered our tickets to another train and we arrived at almost the same time as the first train. Overall this was one incredible trip. They were so warm and friendly and made us feel right at home.
A very relaxing day for the end of a long hard week.