RAIN, RAIN. WE NEED MORE RAIN

 MONDAY MAY 2-16 6:30 pm.  We woke this morning to hear the St. Ann Parish church bells ringing first the 48 peals and then the little tune that has become very familiar. It is 8:00 am.  The sky looked ominous but quickly changed to blue skies with heavy winds over the island pushing the front out to sea.  We didn't rush out but went on bus to ta-Sliema, the tourist hot spot.  Lots of people, lots of hotels and shops, high end merchandise with many restaurants spilling out over the sidewalks; a wide waterfront promenade and marina and today, very strong winds that careen down narrow streets from above sea level onto the promenade to propel pedestrians off their feet nearly into the streets and sea. 

            We found a refuge inside a restaurant for lunch then thought perhaps Valletta would be a bit calmer on Republic Street and Merchant Street.  It was certainly calmer in that respect, however, a cruise ship was in and the two main streets of Republic and Merchants Streets and all their shops were flooded with tourists.  No problem, as is often said here.  We window shopped and decided to use our 2 hour bus transfer to head home.  Good thing too.  As we started for the bus terminus it started to sprinkle.  It was a very dry winter and rain is welcomed and more is needed. It's just nicer if you're not in it unprotected.  By the time we reached the terminus it was much heavier.  Now, my walking shoes are pretty much worn smooth - no traction.  You need to know that the stone & marble pavers all over the island are worn smooth and shiny as glass with centuries of use - and are very slippery when wet - not a good combination.  I kept slipping but thankfully upright and as we ran/slid to our bus bay, the bus was pulling away!   But the driver stopped.  Gratzi, thank you.  They most often do not, will not, cannot.  By the time we got home to our south end of the island it had dried up and skies were blue.  With a litre of fresh milk and some Parmigiano Reggiano Scaglie (shaved parmesan)     it's home for spaghetti and early to bed.   We'll see what tomorrow brings.

Ciao,