Like this:

Let me introduce you to the parking lot owners.

           

When the “citofono” (doorbell) and/or telephone start to ring at around 10 a.m. and again at 4p.m. it’s a sure sign that we’ll be spending some time downstairs in the parking lot playing.  Now, don’t get me wrong, I am thankful my children have a place to play and that we don’t live in an apartment that opens up to a busy street, however, sometimes I like to be able to actually accomplish something before heading down to supervise play time (actually, my job is to call “machina” (car) in order to let the kids know they have to get out of the street.  Much to the kids delight the “gang” is slowly trickling back from their vacation which means we are frequently outside.  This is what “parking lot” play looks like.

            

A couple of the kids descending upon the lot.

           

Doing the “toco” to see who’s it.  The game of choice is “nascondino” (hide and seek)  The “toco”….everyone throws in a number of fingers after chanting, “si buttano giu.”  The total of fingers is the number you count around the circle.  You count out around the circle of players and if the chosen number lands on you, you’re it!

           

When that game grows old, they play “cane”.  They take turns walking the “dog.”

Sometimes they get brave and play in the grassy section.  I personally prefer the asphalt play, the risks are lower.

             

The sign says, “It is prohibited to use the pathway and the grassy area for the dogs’ business.”  One might translate that as meaning, “don’t let your dogs poop in the grass” or “don’t leave your dogs’ poop hidden in the grass.”  However, many read this as “grassy area….let your dog poop here and don’t worry about picking it up.”

          

           

Bubba has stepped in his share of hidden poop, therefore, his courage runs out and he cries until someone gives him a lift across the dangerous grass.

           

Alessia leaves her mark on the street with her choice of pink chalk while Bubba prefers spitting a trail of water. (lets be  honest, it could be worse)

Excuse me, the “citofono” just rang….it’s time to go play.

Advertisement