Life In Rome - Il Rientro

I’m still not used to the rientro effect, even after five summers here.  It’s as if a giant light switch was turned on and BAM, the locals have returned.

There is traffic again on Lungotevere and Corso Vittorio Emanuele.  The woman who owns my local newsstand is very tan, relaxed, and tells us all about her vacation.

I’m excited that my butcher and my favorite baker at the Trionfale farmers’ market are back.  I’ve missed them.

There’s an electric energy in the air despite the fact that our government could collapse (again) at any moment.

Suddenly, my phone is ringing off the hook with vendors letting me know when furniture will be delivered, appointments to see clients, and friends wanting to meet up for post-rientro aperitivi.

I'm glad the rientro has begun.