I finally got it: my first jab at Viareggio’s terminetto health centre on Italy’s republic day! Because it was a national holiday transport links were rather fewer. But my 6.55 am train got me there in plenty of time. I was warned by a friend that one could expect some disorganization and a long wait. Nothing of the sort. Everything was very well organized and as I arrived early I was done early. First my appointment was checked off. Then I saw a doctor to verify if I was allergic to anything. Then I was taken to the jab point. I can’t stand injections so I didn’t look at my arm while it happened but I didn’t feel a thing! I was then asked to wait fifteen minutes to see if there were any immediate after effects. None at all. (Not even the following days).

I then decided that a walk down to the beach might be in order. I followed the canal leading to the port. It was a lovely day and the lines of little boats presented a festive atmosphere.

I had a fab fish lunch from one of the boats consisting of calamari and prawns.

I then walked along the beach. It was great to see so many people, especially young people, having fun by the sea and even in it. Some were playing volleyball. Others were just sitting in groups and chatting. Smiles were on all the faces and they expressed freedom and enjoyment.

How terrible it has been for such a sociable country like Italy to have to shut down so many activities! Of course we are not out of the woods yet and the usual covid19 protocol restrictions are still enforced. However, when I got to one of my favourite ice cream places and ordered a limone/panna cotta/pistachio gelato I don’t think I have enjoyed being in a holiday atmosphere for such a long time.

I got back in time for Bagni Di Lucca’s jazz concert at its theatre, opened for shows for the first time in over a year. The wonderful singer Michela Lombardi was the star and, again, it was so lovely to be able to have a taster of what life is normally like, or would have been B.C. (Before Covid!).

What we have been missing for over a year! And let’s hope we soon will never be missing it again….normal life, in other words living with the freedom to travel where we want to and to be with people we wish to share company with!