True Commitment

Each time I walk down Via De Serragli I pass Bar Trattoria and am greeted by a delightful man who speaks my language, and better yet provides me with traditional Italian cuisine via baby blue meal tickets. Something about Massimo Gheri intrigued me; there had to be more to him than his matching black pants and vest, crisp white button down, all of which were completed with a matching bow tie.

            Born and raised in Fiesole, Italy Massimo grew up in what is now referred to as “The Beverly Hills of Florence”. When asked about his family life he sincerely described how he no longer had parents, and hadn’t had them since he was our age. After a distressing pause, His face lit up as he passionately proclaimed “You want to know if I love my wife?!”, the truth was apparent but details were necessary. He described how he was working with her older sisters company when he first laid eyes on her but she was just a teenager; one that had fantastic green eyes and black hair which he couldn’t resist. Clearly feelings were mutual and their relationship blossomed leading them to marriage which has lasted thirty four incredible years. According to Massimo, “I never have been with another women or girl because for me she is fantastic; a fantastic woman, lover, and mother.” Never have I witnessed such sincerity; I couldn’t help but wonder, will someone someday feel this strongly about me? He proceeded to discuss his brothers failed marriages concluding with the fact that if he were to do everything over, he wouldn’t change a thing.

            This similar passion carried into his job as he described his eagerness to work because it was an opportunity to interact with others giving him the ability to practice his English speaking skills. Within a few minutes Massimo was rushing around again delivering bread baskets and Spaghetti Bolognese to waiting customers when I realized who he truly was. Not only was he a fantastic worker and friend to those around him; he was a devoted husband. I was right- there’s much more to him then what meets the eye; within Massimo exists a story of love and dedication.

Attitude

 “What would you suggest to those interested in the fashion industry?”

                -“No shoulda, woulda, coulda. Just do it, like Nike”

This quote by Nick is one to never forget. He truly understands what it takes to work your way to the top. Inspired by international flight attendant apparel, his love for fashion began at a young age. His dad worked for the U.s Embassy which interestingly enough drew him to a passion for evening gowns. Nick described watching his mother get dressed for these diplomatic parties with an elegance that he viewed as “absolutely fabulous.” He would draw and draw while his mother continued to provide him with more notebooks; blank slates for his innate designs.

Nick Verreos is a man of fashion. The first time I laid eyes on him he was dressed in style from head to toe; metallic shoes, tight jeans, and a green striped tie layered over a crisp white button down which was perfectly tucked in. His demeanor is flamboyant and sarcastic which those around him naturally were gravitated to. The way he spoke is so vivid in my memory; with projection saying things such as “stop it!”, and “don’t let me forget to tell you about Heidi Klum.” My favorite quote was when he described his first interactions with Seal. The first thing Seal said to him was “your fly is unzipped”, and of course Nicks initial thought was “why are you looking there?!” Anyone else in this situation would have absolutely died but Nick just went with it. Even though he was considered famous and was on Project Runway, I still felt as though he was just another down to earth human being. Nick opened up to everyone right away; discussing things such as how the Hills was anything but reality.

Nick has an attitude which will be hard to forget. Even though he got “blacklisted” at the beginning of his career, nothing seemed to keep him from reaching his goals. The fact that he was able to start his own line “nikolaki” in honor of his childhood name, was more than enough for him. I admire his persistence and patience more than I could even describe. He is well aware that his name most likely won’t be recognized by any of the top celebrities but this doesn’t stop him. If this doesn’t stop him, I don’t know what will.

Venice

As I am strolling down the walkway towards the beach I can start to feel the warmth of the sand between my toes. I have just arrived at El Lido; the true paradise of Venice. The water is a beautiful hue of turquoise which glistens with each ray of sunlight. Floating along the water are bright yellow paddleboats with slides which I have never seen before. The strong smell of salt water fills the air while I reminisce of my last time at a beach. The time that came to mind was in Florida but something was different about this beach. El Lido was illuminated with happy, laughing faces. Everyone was having the time of their life and I couldn’t wait to join in. No one seemed to know what time of day it was, nor did they care. This is the lifestyle I could only dream of.  

This culture isn’t about money and who has the most; it’s about enjoying the simple things in life. These people find more enjoyment than I could ever imagine in simple conversations that I am envious of and wish our culture would develop. One conversation that I overheard while at the beach was between two female tourists around the ages of twenty.  These girls were discussing how they wished they could take off a month to relax and enjoy life as the Italians did but knew it was unrealistic. I began to ponder this idea and agreed with them- this would be completely unacceptable in our culture. If anyone tried to do this in America they would no longer have their job. This brings me to the point that the Italian lifestyle is much more laid back than our own. As I have heard multiple times before, the Italians work to live, while we live to work. At a restaurant in America, the check is handed to you before you are even done eating; while in Italy you ask for the check and then continue to wait…