Paesano

Today I took the Bronx 2 bus across town to Arthur Avenue, home of the Bronx's Italian neighborhood, a neighborhood which I found far less touristy and more Italian than Little Italy in Manhattan.

I enjoyed some delicious mozzarella and I sauntered the streets for an hour or two, but the highlight was a conversation with Maria, a 35 year transplant from Napoli.

Although Maria had been in America for over three decades, she had failed to really learn English...except for some phrases, some gems. Occasionally throughout our conversation Maria would end a phrase by turning up her nose, showing her palms and shrugging her shoulders while saying "whata you gonna do," or "foget about it." Great ItaloAmericano stuff.

Soon Maria and I were joined by her friend, Fortuna. After about 45 minutes, by the time a third friend arrived I surrendered my seat on the park bench and proceeded on my way with satisfaction.

I had a good day today. Porca miseria.