Allesandro and Simona –

How we know them – Another couple that we know from the gym. I first met Allesandro in the fall and instantly liked him. He’s a really nice man. He plays center for the American Football team here in Florence so we had plenty to talk about. Just a few months ago (After having met both of them independently) I figured out that they were married. She takes the phrase “Intense Work Out” to a whole new level, often running for an hour on the treadmill followed by an hour of spin class! When I say run, I mean run, as in seven minute miles!

What they do – Allesandro works at the bus station selling tickets and Simona works at one of the stores in the airport.

Our Friendship – The two of them love American movies (Especially anything with Denzel Washington in it!) and have a little girl named Matilda. Our time together has been over lunch and dinner and is always an effortless conversation. Simona speaks near perfect English and Allesandro gets by. As is the case with all Italians, they love to give gifts. When they came over for lunch one day, Allesandro brought with him “Torte Di Nonna” (Grandma’s cake) straight from his mothers kitchen. Trey still talks about how good it was!

Interesting Quip – Simona’s nickname (As given to her by Allesandro) is Forest Gump, because she runs for about as long as he does!