First Week (prima settimana)

We hit the ground running when we landed! First, I need to mention that we have a wonderful sponsor family. Flo and Lenie are one of the few AF families at NATO and they have been so good to us!

There was a quaint little AF welcome party at the airport with a mini van ready for our luggage. We traveled to the Naples Support Site (where our lodging is located) and we were welcomed again by some NATO spouses. To be honest, I was really embarrassed because I looked like I just came out of a 14 hour flight. On the other hand, it was nice to be welcomed right when we arrived. It gave a lasting impression!

That evening, we quickly went to the NEX shopping center to get our cell phones activated. It was helpful that we unlocked our iPhones in the states so we can quickly get our international line set up.

Cell phones....check!!

TLA Livin'!!!

Temporary housing is rough and an adjustment for all. We didn't know what to expect and we were very blessed to have a sponsor that was on the ball and reserved a Villa for us. It was great, as we have plenty of room and at least have apartment living space.

This was a different feature in the bathroom. The kids didn't know what to think of it.

Leilah suggested that we could wash our face with it or use it as a drinking fountain.

Andrew thought it was cool because he thought he could have his own urinal.

We explained to the kids what it is really used for (an how to use it) and that was it.

There was no more talk about it!

Wifi was one of the biggest demands when we arrived. Unfortunately, the connection is really bad here in the TLA. The kids slowly stopped using electronics and I have slowly pulled away from television. I don't know what's next...giving up the Diet DP? Ummm, no!

The Adjustment

The Commissary is pretty much like any other in the states. For shopping cart control, you need to insert 1 Euro to release your cart from the other interlocking carts. Also, shopping bags are a must here. Didn't think I would become so green!

The kids just think this is hilarious! Capri Sonne anybody?

Never thought I would need my google translate to do a simple wash of clothes. Mamma mia!

I enjoyed our daily walks to the NEX and commissary. I couldn't resist taking this picture! It is the simples things that make our family time memorable.

A really cool find at the NEX and Commissary.

Roman remains dated back over 1,000 years ago (at least that's what the NEX employee told us).

It's time to start driving!!!

*Yes I am that goofy girl that wears an AF sweater in a Navy base. ;-P

Our car...Citreon C3!

First time driving on the road!!!