Do you understand what they are saying?….

… Of course… Well… Kind of… Sorta? I am still learning. This is the question I received today that prompted this post. Thank you Jack! Jacks’ family came into La Taverna del Leone for a cooking class today (Cooking Vacations). Father Mike, Mother Tricia, son Jack, unfortunately their daughter was not with them. It was a pleasure to meet them and spend the morning with Jack. It was a welcome change to have a little boy around and I think everyone in the kitchen would agree. I have two boys at home and I KNOW how much energy they have and require. Anyway Jack and I talked all morning, about his trip, school, grades, books he read, minecraft, his famous dad and awesome mom! 🙂 and he was an excellent helper. Now, hanging with Jack made me think even more about my family and my boys!
About midway through our morning Jack ask the question “Do you understand what they are saying?” It actually made me think… I may understand about 25% of what my kitchen is saying. The rest is hand gestures, sounds, charades, listening and watching closely. Thankfully italians use their hands a lot when they speak. THANK GOD we are in the kitchen so I can relate to what is being said (not the jokes though!!).
In the kitchen the majority of the conversation during the day is of Food and ingredients, obviously. This is not only here in Italy where I don’t speak the language but anywhere. That is one great thing about culinary arts. It transcends culture, ethnicity and language. I took a 10-week italian language course before I came here. Not long enough especially considering the different dialects, however, I learned the basics and most important things; ex. I need help, Where is…?, How much does this cost…?, Names of fruits, vegetables, fish, meats, etc… Kitchen phrases…etc.. Knowing these basic things is what prepared me for this trip, and of course I am still learning. My husband told me to watch italian TV to help me learn the language, and it did actually help.
So, in the kitchen, it is said that you need more than just utensils/tools to cook, you also need all of your senses; sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste. This is the absolute truth, you have to pay attention and be aware at all times as well. Understanding this has made this experience even better for me. I can enjoy what I am going through because I am not overly concerned with words, I understand and communicate in other ways!
The other thing that has enhanced this experience for me is knowing that there is always something to learn.
Ciao!!

A portrait of me crafted out of mashed potatoes, by one of the chefs. See I am smiling, I am doing alright!!