It's All Greek to Me, Except for Some Italian

A hybrid taxi cab dropped me off at the red door. I found the correct gold button. The door buzzed, released its lock, and I managed to yank all my bags through the door. I heard what sounded like a person bounding down many stairs very quickly. A few seconds later, this theory was confirmed when a member of my host family, a very tall (at least 6'2--not "of small to medium stature") boy with curly dark hair leap down the last flight of stairs. He introduced himself and grabbed two of my bags. He warned, "there are a lot of stairs." I thought this meant maybe 3 stories, 30-40 stairs total. I kid you not, there are at least 100 stairs (I'll count tomorrow) to get to my host family's flat. While this initial ascent was quite difficult with 50 lbs of luggage on my already sore shoulders, the climb is well worth it. When we reached the top, he let me know his parents were still at work, but showed me to my room (which is adorable! and merits its own post--with pictures--in the next few days). On the way to my room he introduced me to his Greek teacher, and while I was unpacking my bags I eavesdropped on his lesson, trying to at least distinguish Italian I might recognize from the even more foreign language.  A few minutes later, the other American student arrived. She was in excellent spirits considering her luggage had not arrived with her person.  We chatted about our travel and got to know each other a bit until our host returned from work. She gave us a tour of the flat and explained some logistical details (in a mix of English and Italian, heavy on the English to convey the more important items). I am surprised how comfortable I am speaking Italian. Extended pauses are required for me to string together thoughts of more than 5 words, but I am pleased with my efforts tonight in communicating. Keep in mind this family was exceedingly warm and welcoming, and forgiving of my shortfalls in Italian grammar and vocabulary. Her husband arrived a few minutes after her and around 8 pm we all enjoyed a delicious dinner. Potato ravioli with tomato and basil (that she grows in her windowsill that enjoys a view of Santo Spirito) sauce for the first course, then sauteed bell peppers, bread, cheese, and smoked ham for the second course, and oranges and pears for dessert. And a bottle of chianti. 

I'll follow up in future posts about flights, airports, baggage, American students everywhere, first impressions of the city, my room, the unbelievable panoramic views from the terrace, and the Official Stair Count soon, but for tonight, my head must go to bed.