So we took a day trip to Perugia today. Perugia is the quaint Italian city my friend from high school Megan is studying abroad in. It is also the location where 4 years ago, a study abroad student from Seattle, Amanda Knox was convicted of murdering her British roommate. After hearing Megan tell the story (seeing as how she lives there and 1 of her professors was a mediator in the trial), it is evident that there is no real proof that Knox was her murderer and it also so clearly demonstrates the corruption in the government here in Italy. (*Note to Self: don't get into trouble in Italy) But either way, Knox was convicted and is no serving 25 years in an Italian prison outside of Perugia.. how effing scary. It was quite interesting to be in the town where such a famous event occurred and to see the university the girls attended.
Despite the dark events, it was a beautiful day and so wonderful to see a friendly face from home, especially one that I hadn't seen in so long! Megan and I hadn't seen each other since senior year of high school (so of course, naturally, our first reunion would be in italy!) But it was great to catch up and talk of home.
Our day was so spontaneous, go with the flow, fly by the seat of your pants, 'lax and i loved it! We didn't do a whole lot but thats what made it perfect. We didn't even arrive until after 1, enjoyed some cheap but delicious pizza on the steps of the duomo, toured the city (including the murder university and the underground city built by a previous pope where there are real live streets that people actually used to live on even though its underneath the real city), basked in the sun, bought some chocolate (perugia is famous for its chocolate) and then set off to return home. A highlight of the trip was the 'minimetro', so lovingly nicknamed the chode, for its awkward, but fun shape and size. Since Perugia is so hilly, the cute little tram takes you from the bottom to the top, feeling like a roller coaster and entering tunnels that make you feel like you're in The Incredibles.
Perugia definitely seems more of how I pictured what studying abroad in Italy would be like. I could never put my finger on what it was about Florence that made it not what I pictured or couldn't even understand what it was I was picturing, but after seeing Perugia I pinpointed it. I loved that it was more quiet and quaint, yet still had a bit of a city feel, unlike Siena where you felt walled in and trapped. Although I don't feel unsafe in Florence, it felt safer. The views and countryside surrounding were beautiful. I loved it there but am still very grateful for my experience in Florence and never would have changed it! Megan said that this was actually her first weekend spent in Perugia because there is not much to do during the day and so they are constantly gone on day/weekend trips, although the nightlife is great due to so many universities being located there. But after having a beautiful morning in Florence yesterday, sitting with my back on the Duomo with gelato in my hand, a book in my lap, and the sun shining down on my face, listening to Department of Eagles, I finally felt that true Italian feeling in Florence.
12 March 2011
10 March 2011
So today my History of the Italian Mafia teacher says...
"The essay portion is an opportunity for you to demonstrate how good you are at dropping knowledge."
he's a baller.
...and i'm pretty sure he's actually IN the mafia. I'm onto you Lorenzo Picci.
he's a baller.
...and i'm pretty sure he's actually IN the mafia. I'm onto you Lorenzo Picci.
08 March 2011
The Last Supper
Journal Excerpt
Friday, March 4th 2011
Milan, Italy
Saw the Last Supper today...
just to get into the room it's located in, you have to go through 2 previous chamber-type rooms that regulate temperature control and remove pollution & debris from your body, purifying, so as to not bring damaging elements into the room in order to preserve the painting. Only 25 people at a time are allowed in the room to view it. This is because Leonardo Da Vinci used paints one would use to paint a canvas, but that do not suffice as well on a wall/mural painting. The paints he used are much harder to preserve and are not long-lasting, but he did this so he could take as much time as he needed on the painting, carefully constructing each move until it was perfect. The paints he used allowed him to go back and make changes, which he was constantly doing. He put so much time and effort into his work, using science and research to perfect it, sketching out every move before executing it. He studied sound waves and ripples to make the positions of the subjects appear fluid and circular. He researched biblical and religious documents in order to convey each apostle's exact emotion and include iconography and significant elements in every detail. He chose Jesus' right temple as the focal point to create perfect illusion and distance perspective and to draw attention to the Christ. While it took Leonardo so long to finish one wall, Michaelangelo spent only 5 years painting the entire Sistine Chapel. This also explains why it was not such a process to get through the Sistine as it was the Last Supper, because it was made from Fresco and in much better shape. A lot of detail in the painting had already been lost, including Jesus' feet at the bottom of the table due to some Dominican Monks staying in the refectory who wanted to widen the door for easier kitchen access, as well as the floral detailing in the tapestry lost as a result of aging. Then, the Last Supper suffered from a bombing in 1943 during the war and was subjected to the conditions of nature while the refectory was rebuilt. The restoration lasted until 1999. Yet still, it is a miraculous and beautiful thing that it happened to be the only wall (along with the crucifixion painting) that survived the war and is still in tact today, though probably not for long. And so they strive each day, taking every precaution to preserve this masterpiece for as long as possible so that future generations may have the same opportunity I was so graciously given to awe at all its glory.
Friday, March 4th 2011
Milan, Italy
Saw the Last Supper today...
just to get into the room it's located in, you have to go through 2 previous chamber-type rooms that regulate temperature control and remove pollution & debris from your body, purifying, so as to not bring damaging elements into the room in order to preserve the painting. Only 25 people at a time are allowed in the room to view it. This is because Leonardo Da Vinci used paints one would use to paint a canvas, but that do not suffice as well on a wall/mural painting. The paints he used are much harder to preserve and are not long-lasting, but he did this so he could take as much time as he needed on the painting, carefully constructing each move until it was perfect. The paints he used allowed him to go back and make changes, which he was constantly doing. He put so much time and effort into his work, using science and research to perfect it, sketching out every move before executing it. He studied sound waves and ripples to make the positions of the subjects appear fluid and circular. He researched biblical and religious documents in order to convey each apostle's exact emotion and include iconography and significant elements in every detail. He chose Jesus' right temple as the focal point to create perfect illusion and distance perspective and to draw attention to the Christ. While it took Leonardo so long to finish one wall, Michaelangelo spent only 5 years painting the entire Sistine Chapel. This also explains why it was not such a process to get through the Sistine as it was the Last Supper, because it was made from Fresco and in much better shape. A lot of detail in the painting had already been lost, including Jesus' feet at the bottom of the table due to some Dominican Monks staying in the refectory who wanted to widen the door for easier kitchen access, as well as the floral detailing in the tapestry lost as a result of aging. Then, the Last Supper suffered from a bombing in 1943 during the war and was subjected to the conditions of nature while the refectory was rebuilt. The restoration lasted until 1999. Yet still, it is a miraculous and beautiful thing that it happened to be the only wall (along with the crucifixion painting) that survived the war and is still in tact today, though probably not for long. And so they strive each day, taking every precaution to preserve this masterpiece for as long as possible so that future generations may have the same opportunity I was so graciously given to awe at all its glory.
Here Comes the Sun
Journal Excerpt
Thursday, March 3rd, 2011
Today I was in a bit of a downer mood. I was feeling a bit overwhelmed by school assignments and financial troubles, so, feeling I deserved a treat, I purchased some delicious dried fruit (and thought of you momma!). I walked in the doors of my favorite cozy little cafe, right next to school that takes our meal vouchers, to be greeted by 'Here Comes The Sun' singing through the speakers. It was music to my ears. As I sipped my cappuccino and nibbled my pastry given to me by the sweet, endearing, ever-so-kind waitress, I thought, nothing like the Beatles to remind you that..
Little Darlin', it's alright :)
Thursday, March 3rd, 2011
Today I was in a bit of a downer mood. I was feeling a bit overwhelmed by school assignments and financial troubles, so, feeling I deserved a treat, I purchased some delicious dried fruit (and thought of you momma!). I walked in the doors of my favorite cozy little cafe, right next to school that takes our meal vouchers, to be greeted by 'Here Comes The Sun' singing through the speakers. It was music to my ears. As I sipped my cappuccino and nibbled my pastry given to me by the sweet, endearing, ever-so-kind waitress, I thought, nothing like the Beatles to remind you that..
Little Darlin', it's alright :)
02 March 2011
Fiesole
(this is old but apparently it never actually posted so i'm posting it now.. plus i just love fiesole!)
Most definitely my favorite part of the trip so far. It was much needed nature after adjusting to the city life of Florence. We took a bus out of Florence up into the hills of Fiesole where we toured ancient ruins. It happened to be the most gorgeous day complete with the warm sunshine wrapping it's rays around my skin in desperate need of some good old fashioned Vitamin D. As if the beautiful weather and nature weren't enough, we got to see some amazing things like the ancient ampitheatre, a museum of remains found at the site, the ruins of the palace that used to be there. Then, we hiked up an enormous hill which was worth it for the amazing view of all of Florence below us. At the top of the hill, we saw a beautiful chapel complete with real live monks :) Then ended with an incredible brunch that I stuffed my face at, held at a beautiful local restaurant. Even though, I felt no desire to use my camera and declared at the beginning my friend Lisa had to be the photographer and let me steal her pictures, I ended up taking so many pictures because there was beauty in all directions. It was the perfect day.
Most definitely my favorite part of the trip so far. It was much needed nature after adjusting to the city life of Florence. We took a bus out of Florence up into the hills of Fiesole where we toured ancient ruins. It happened to be the most gorgeous day complete with the warm sunshine wrapping it's rays around my skin in desperate need of some good old fashioned Vitamin D. As if the beautiful weather and nature weren't enough, we got to see some amazing things like the ancient ampitheatre, a museum of remains found at the site, the ruins of the palace that used to be there. Then, we hiked up an enormous hill which was worth it for the amazing view of all of Florence below us. At the top of the hill, we saw a beautiful chapel complete with real live monks :) Then ended with an incredible brunch that I stuffed my face at, held at a beautiful local restaurant. Even though, I felt no desire to use my camera and declared at the beginning my friend Lisa had to be the photographer and let me steal her pictures, I ended up taking so many pictures because there was beauty in all directions. It was the perfect day.
01 March 2011
So used to Italian guys being overtly creepy..
and blatantly hitting on anything remotely female, that i've learned to ignore them. So today, while walking to my volunteer school, a young man gestures toward me and says something in Italian I can't understand (plus I have my headphones in so can't really even hear him anyway) and I roll my eyes and continue walking, ignoring him as i've been acclimated to. But then he looks a bit offended and in my rush I realize he was trying to tell me my bus pass was falling out of my jacket pocket (granted I had no need for this because it was just an old one from Rome) but I was surprised at his genuinely harmless and considerate gesture. I felt bad for instantly writing him off but sadly, this is how a girl has to survive here. This must be a reflection of the cold, passionless, numb, and shallow society that has come to be of recent according to my women in Italian society. Women are forced to put up this cold front in order to protect themselves from the objectifying men who are only doing it because they have been raised (so coldly themselves) to think they can, and to think it's good.
But anyway, speaking of volunteering...
it's upsetting how much smarter and more cultured kids outside of America are. haha
These kids are already quite fluent in English and learning cultural things about both the UK and the US. The 14-15 year olds know more about U2 and bloody Sunday than I do, and the 16-17 year olds.. well, they use a literature book just like the ones I used in highschool.. meaning.. in English. They are doing the same stuff I did in HS.. but in another language. Today i was supposed to talk to them about Robinson Crusoe. We read an excerpt from that in HS and all... but its not like I remembered that ish! haha I had to basically do the smae hw they did to educate myself on it before trying to teach them about it!
But anyway, speaking of volunteering...
it's upsetting how much smarter and more cultured kids outside of America are. haha
These kids are already quite fluent in English and learning cultural things about both the UK and the US. The 14-15 year olds know more about U2 and bloody Sunday than I do, and the 16-17 year olds.. well, they use a literature book just like the ones I used in highschool.. meaning.. in English. They are doing the same stuff I did in HS.. but in another language. Today i was supposed to talk to them about Robinson Crusoe. We read an excerpt from that in HS and all... but its not like I remembered that ish! haha I had to basically do the smae hw they did to educate myself on it before trying to teach them about it!
28 February 2011
Surreality.
Standing in the Sistine Chapel.. I am literally speechless. I'm actually somewhat grateful that pictures, as well as even speaking are not allowed in this place.. As eager as I am to document all this incredible experiences I'm taking part in, something about not worrying about a camera or about discussing the awe with someone else really allows you to take it all in. I knew this was something I needed to journal/blog about, but I found myself thinking that there were literally no words that could describe my experience. I just walked around with my head all the way back, staring at the ceiling.. I could have laid on the floor for hours just looking up. This huge chapel that Michaelangelo painted all by himself, in just five years, among the many other accomplishments of his life... it was breathtaking.
Rome is unreal. I have been to more churches than I can count, each done with such care, effort, and beauty. (I have so many pictures of ceilings it's not even funny) I have entered through the archway of the Coliseum that the gladiators came through, and seen where they fought their bloody battles. I have wandered the ancient Roman ruins, literally set foot on the same paths that they walked. I have seen the site of Julius Cesar's murder. I have walked into some rooms of Augustus' house, and seen the remnants of the chipping paint on his walls, painted in 9BC... over 2,900 years ago. (This was another thing I was not allowed to capture on film, it's always the most important things. Maybe they just know cameras are just a distraction and secretly just want you to take it all in for yourself and give it undivided attention, standing in awe...or your flash and breath are bad for the paint.. either way) I have been in the presence of Pope Benedict XVI, and received a blessing from him among a crowd of adoring fans, come from all over the world to hear his words. I still can't believe it all really happened.
It's funny how much a series of ups and downs studying abroad is. Although my weekend was breathtakingly surreal, I also suffered a few minor setbacks and went through times of emotion and stress, including money problems, roommate troubles, homesickness, actual sickness, and extreme exhaustion. Yet when things get rough, I've found it's important to remind myself it's all worth it. No matter how hard it gets, even if something disastrous happened and I had to leave to go home this very instant.. it's all worth it. I have seen and done things that most people only dream of and I am an incredibly privileged girl. Never in my life have I been able to check so many things off my bucket list and I feel very blessed to have received this opportunity.
Rome is unreal. I have been to more churches than I can count, each done with such care, effort, and beauty. (I have so many pictures of ceilings it's not even funny) I have entered through the archway of the Coliseum that the gladiators came through, and seen where they fought their bloody battles. I have wandered the ancient Roman ruins, literally set foot on the same paths that they walked. I have seen the site of Julius Cesar's murder. I have walked into some rooms of Augustus' house, and seen the remnants of the chipping paint on his walls, painted in 9BC... over 2,900 years ago. (This was another thing I was not allowed to capture on film, it's always the most important things. Maybe they just know cameras are just a distraction and secretly just want you to take it all in for yourself and give it undivided attention, standing in awe...or your flash and breath are bad for the paint.. either way) I have been in the presence of Pope Benedict XVI, and received a blessing from him among a crowd of adoring fans, come from all over the world to hear his words. I still can't believe it all really happened.
It's funny how much a series of ups and downs studying abroad is. Although my weekend was breathtakingly surreal, I also suffered a few minor setbacks and went through times of emotion and stress, including money problems, roommate troubles, homesickness, actual sickness, and extreme exhaustion. Yet when things get rough, I've found it's important to remind myself it's all worth it. No matter how hard it gets, even if something disastrous happened and I had to leave to go home this very instant.. it's all worth it. I have seen and done things that most people only dream of and I am an incredibly privileged girl. Never in my life have I been able to check so many things off my bucket list and I feel very blessed to have received this opportunity.
20 February 2011
Viola Per Sempre!!!!
Went to my first Italian soccer game! Gooo Fiorentina! It was raining, and freezing, and we got there pretty early. But I learned a lot…
“Sampadoriiiia, Sampadoriaaaaa Vaffanculo! Vaffanculo! Vaffanculo!”
“Vai Vai Vai Vai”
Don’t get there too early.
Bring some beers with you on the bus ride, find a nice place to drink them before entering the stadium.
Try to sit on the side with all fun, singing, decked out fans.
Don't get sat on during the bus ride home by a drunken, singing Italian guy. (sorry Case)
Learn how to insult the ref in Italian
Learn all the Fiorentina club songs.
Go on a sunny, warm day.
“Sampadoriiiia, Sampadoriaaaaa Vaffanculo! Vaffanculo! Vaffanculo!”
“Vai Vai Vai Vai”
Don’t get there too early.
Bring some beers with you on the bus ride, find a nice place to drink them before entering the stadium.
Try to sit on the side with all fun, singing, decked out fans.
Don't get sat on during the bus ride home by a drunken, singing Italian guy. (sorry Case)
Learn how to insult the ref in Italian
Learn all the Fiorentina club songs.
Go on a sunny, warm day.
I love Florence.
Journal- 19.2.2011
Plan for the day- Boboli Gardens. I hear it is supposed to be a nice day, so I wear shorts with tights, boots, and a button up shirt. I know this will not be enough to keep me warm, but I figure I‘d rather wear this outfit on a day that‘s expected to be somewhat nice rather than any other. So I throw on my leather jacket and a scarf, crossing my fingers that I somehow won’t freeze. I walk out my door and reach Santa Croce where the sun is flooding the piazza. This weather calls for some Shwayze I think to myself, pop in my headphones and loosen up the scarf, my neck isn’t cold at all! I head down the road and upon reaching the arno, the jacket’s coming off, I’m actually somewhat hot with it on.. I don’t remember the last time I felt hot. Walking down the arno, everyone is out on this beautiful day. It’s fun to see the people laying out on the arno walls, couples stopping to enjoy their lunch in the sun, tourists taking photos of the ponte vecchio. I want to join in on the ‘doce far niente’ (the joy of doing nothing), but I’ve got to meet Hayley and Stacie at Boboli. So I continue my stroll and arrive at Pitti Palace, get my ticket (students are free-- I feel so VIP). Walking into Boboli, I am overwhelmed by how enormous this place is… and I still have to find my friends. After wandering a bit, we reunite and set off for exploring this beautiful garden in disbelief of what it actually is.. Or was. How this garden was made just for the Medici family, just to have a beautiful garden in their backyard, just because they had the money, just because they could. How Eleonora Medici was able to just come right out here behind her palace to have a picnic by the island fountain, or to take a stroll after dinner under the moonlight. With a view of all of Florence, beneath her, above all the rest. We make our way up to the highest point of the gardens to bask in the sun and take in the breathtaking views. And so I find myself here with you journal, thinking about how I could do this everyday, how there is just not enough time, to do it all, to see it all.. But to still enjoy the ‘dolce far niente.’
Plan for the day- Boboli Gardens. I hear it is supposed to be a nice day, so I wear shorts with tights, boots, and a button up shirt. I know this will not be enough to keep me warm, but I figure I‘d rather wear this outfit on a day that‘s expected to be somewhat nice rather than any other. So I throw on my leather jacket and a scarf, crossing my fingers that I somehow won’t freeze. I walk out my door and reach Santa Croce where the sun is flooding the piazza. This weather calls for some Shwayze I think to myself, pop in my headphones and loosen up the scarf, my neck isn’t cold at all! I head down the road and upon reaching the arno, the jacket’s coming off, I’m actually somewhat hot with it on.. I don’t remember the last time I felt hot. Walking down the arno, everyone is out on this beautiful day. It’s fun to see the people laying out on the arno walls, couples stopping to enjoy their lunch in the sun, tourists taking photos of the ponte vecchio. I want to join in on the ‘doce far niente’ (the joy of doing nothing), but I’ve got to meet Hayley and Stacie at Boboli. So I continue my stroll and arrive at Pitti Palace, get my ticket (students are free-- I feel so VIP). Walking into Boboli, I am overwhelmed by how enormous this place is… and I still have to find my friends. After wandering a bit, we reunite and set off for exploring this beautiful garden in disbelief of what it actually is.. Or was. How this garden was made just for the Medici family, just to have a beautiful garden in their backyard, just because they had the money, just because they could. How Eleonora Medici was able to just come right out here behind her palace to have a picnic by the island fountain, or to take a stroll after dinner under the moonlight. With a view of all of Florence, beneath her, above all the rest. We make our way up to the highest point of the gardens to bask in the sun and take in the breathtaking views. And so I find myself here with you journal, thinking about how I could do this everyday, how there is just not enough time, to do it all, to see it all.. But to still enjoy the ‘dolce far niente.’
16 February 2011
Livin' La Vida Madrid
Friday
4:00am- wake up, shower, pack, eat
6:30- get lost walking to train station
7:00- arrive at train station
7:30- leave Florence on a train to Pisa (without Amy.. the girl who's credit card we booked the hostel with)
8:30- arrive at the Pisa airport (still without Amy. oh yea.. and with no way to contact her since she has no italian phone and was alone)
10:00- reunite with Amy! (she caught the next train out)
10:30- fly to Madrid
12:30- arrive in Madrid
1:30- take the metro to the hostel
2:30- arrive at Hostel Santillian
3:30- lunch at Museo del Jamon (yea Paellaaaa!)
4:30- sightseeing and city walking
9:00- back to the hostel to get ready
9:30- meet Maxine's friend Sophie who is studying and interning in Madrid for 4 years (coolest girl ever)
10:00- traditional Spanish meal
12:00- meet Sophie's friends at a bar a get 2 free mojitos!
3:00- bedtime!
Saturday
9:00- rise n' shine
10:00- juice and bagels sandwich at the best place i can't remember the name of :(
11:00- sightseeing all overrrr the place (Old Madrid, Palacio Real, Basilica, the cathedral, Piaza Oriental, etc.)
2:30- rent row boats in Retiro park while sipping 75cent Sangria and eating chips & salsa
3:30- sun soaking and relaxing in Retiro park
7:00- Reina Sofia Museum
9:00- Ciesta
11:00- get ready to raaaage
12:00- leave the hostel
12:30- 6euro mojitos and free tapas at El Tigre
1:30- back to the hostel for a quick change of the worst heels ever
2:00- meet Amy's friends who are studying in Barcelona at Areia Lounge
3:30- close out the bar and head to Joy nightclub
5:00- churros with chocolate
5:30- goodnight Madrid, we're callin it an early night (while Stacie and Maxine are still dancing away at Joy)
7:30- Maxine and Stacie come home
Sunday
10:00- wake up
11:30- coffee and jamon y queso croissants
12:30- market! (2 euro scarves, 3 for 5 sunglasses, 50cent bracelets!)
3:00- lunch at Plaza Mayor- Boccadillos de Calamres (fried calamari subs for 2.70euro!)
5:00- shoppppiiinngg
7:00- Prado Museum
9:00- dinner (best brie salad and chorizo with eggs & potatoes)
12:00- goodnight Madrid
Monday
8:00- wake up
9:00- juice place!
10:00- Egyptian Temple
11:00- Metro to the airport
1:30- goodbye Madrid!
3:30- arrive in Pisa
5:00- board the train back to Florence
6:00- arrive in Florence
4:00am- wake up, shower, pack, eat
6:30- get lost walking to train station
7:00- arrive at train station
7:30- leave Florence on a train to Pisa (without Amy.. the girl who's credit card we booked the hostel with)
8:30- arrive at the Pisa airport (still without Amy. oh yea.. and with no way to contact her since she has no italian phone and was alone)
10:00- reunite with Amy! (she caught the next train out)
10:30- fly to Madrid
12:30- arrive in Madrid
1:30- take the metro to the hostel
2:30- arrive at Hostel Santillian
3:30- lunch at Museo del Jamon (yea Paellaaaa!)
4:30- sightseeing and city walking
9:00- back to the hostel to get ready
9:30- meet Maxine's friend Sophie who is studying and interning in Madrid for 4 years (coolest girl ever)
10:00- traditional Spanish meal
12:00- meet Sophie's friends at a bar a get 2 free mojitos!
3:00- bedtime!
Saturday
9:00- rise n' shine
10:00- juice and bagels sandwich at the best place i can't remember the name of :(
11:00- sightseeing all overrrr the place (Old Madrid, Palacio Real, Basilica, the cathedral, Piaza Oriental, etc.)
2:30- rent row boats in Retiro park while sipping 75cent Sangria and eating chips & salsa
3:30- sun soaking and relaxing in Retiro park
7:00- Reina Sofia Museum
9:00- Ciesta
11:00- get ready to raaaage
12:00- leave the hostel
12:30- 6euro mojitos and free tapas at El Tigre
1:30- back to the hostel for a quick change of the worst heels ever
2:00- meet Amy's friends who are studying in Barcelona at Areia Lounge
3:30- close out the bar and head to Joy nightclub
5:00- churros with chocolate
5:30- goodnight Madrid, we're callin it an early night (while Stacie and Maxine are still dancing away at Joy)
7:30- Maxine and Stacie come home
Sunday
10:00- wake up
11:30- coffee and jamon y queso croissants
12:30- market! (2 euro scarves, 3 for 5 sunglasses, 50cent bracelets!)
3:00- lunch at Plaza Mayor- Boccadillos de Calamres (fried calamari subs for 2.70euro!)
5:00- shoppppiiinngg
7:00- Prado Museum
9:00- dinner (best brie salad and chorizo with eggs & potatoes)
12:00- goodnight Madrid
Monday
8:00- wake up
9:00- juice place!
10:00- Egyptian Temple
11:00- Metro to the airport
1:30- goodbye Madrid!
3:30- arrive in Pisa
5:00- board the train back to Florence
6:00- arrive in Florence
10 February 2011
Booking a trip to Madrid a week in advance..
..spontaneity :)
We found it on RyanAir after searching for the cheapest flights out of Pisa on Valentine's weekend. We found Madrid and booked then and there.
Now it's here. Our train leaves at 7:30 tomorrow morning and then a couple hours later Bailey, Stacie, Maxine, Amy and I will be in Spanish heaven :)
We found it on RyanAir after searching for the cheapest flights out of Pisa on Valentine's weekend. We found Madrid and booked then and there.
Now it's here. Our train leaves at 7:30 tomorrow morning and then a couple hours later Bailey, Stacie, Maxine, Amy and I will be in Spanish heaven :)
09 February 2011
It's been a while..
Sorry for the absence.. but adjusting to life in 'Flo-town' proved to be more interesting and difficult than expected. So as it seems, the previous format has not exactly worked out seeing as how its hard to have 'picture of the day' when you're not posting a picture everyday.. or even taking a picture everyday.. which is hard to do when you've got classes and an actual schedule. Surprisingly, i've been quite busy.
I've definitely had my fair share of adventures already... if public transportation in the U.S. seems confusing, you can only imagine what it's like in a foreign country. After taking wrong buses, getting off on wrong stops, language barriers with bus drivers, paying outrageous rates for taxis after getting lost, lugging groceries around the ghetto on a cold, foggy night, there were times I was ready to throw in the towel. Yet, each time, after all the worry and frustration, in the end everything worked out, we were all okay. And even more, each experience brought growth. I have never felt more independent. Each experience left me feeling yes, drained, but also proud of myself, accomplished, and appreciative of the little things (like a jar of Nutella and a warm bed.) But my favorite thing was that each time I was met with the random kindness of a stranger at some point in the confusion. Our first trip to the supermarket ended with the meeting of a kind woman from the Philippines who thankfully spoke English and heard our desperate cries for home. She directed us to our stop and it turns out she lives on the floor below us and has been living in Florence for 26 years. She pointed us to her apt and told us that if we ever needed anything we could come to her :) Another time it was a kind young Italian man who knew English that told us which stop to get off on. One lost night, three american students pointed us in the right direction. It is the simple act of kindness performed by a stranger that warms my heart and gets me through the frustration. We are all connected, we all love the same and suffer the same. We all need each other. We all need to help each other. Why do we let ourselves forget that?
All in all, each 'adventure' has left me with more wisdom and knowledge of the culture and the city and with great stories and amazing memories with great people. Through it all, I learned what supportive roommates I have and how even though we'll go through ups and downs I have been blessed with girls that I can trust to have my back when it really counts.
I've definitely had my fair share of adventures already... if public transportation in the U.S. seems confusing, you can only imagine what it's like in a foreign country. After taking wrong buses, getting off on wrong stops, language barriers with bus drivers, paying outrageous rates for taxis after getting lost, lugging groceries around the ghetto on a cold, foggy night, there were times I was ready to throw in the towel. Yet, each time, after all the worry and frustration, in the end everything worked out, we were all okay. And even more, each experience brought growth. I have never felt more independent. Each experience left me feeling yes, drained, but also proud of myself, accomplished, and appreciative of the little things (like a jar of Nutella and a warm bed.) But my favorite thing was that each time I was met with the random kindness of a stranger at some point in the confusion. Our first trip to the supermarket ended with the meeting of a kind woman from the Philippines who thankfully spoke English and heard our desperate cries for home. She directed us to our stop and it turns out she lives on the floor below us and has been living in Florence for 26 years. She pointed us to her apt and told us that if we ever needed anything we could come to her :) Another time it was a kind young Italian man who knew English that told us which stop to get off on. One lost night, three american students pointed us in the right direction. It is the simple act of kindness performed by a stranger that warms my heart and gets me through the frustration. We are all connected, we all love the same and suffer the same. We all need each other. We all need to help each other. Why do we let ourselves forget that?
All in all, each 'adventure' has left me with more wisdom and knowledge of the culture and the city and with great stories and amazing memories with great people. Through it all, I learned what supportive roommates I have and how even though we'll go through ups and downs I have been blessed with girls that I can trust to have my back when it really counts.
26 January 2011
The Tuscan Countryside...
Siena Day 4
Thurday January 20, 2011
Exactly how I pictured it. I though Diane Lane might actually come out and greet us. After winding roads of vineyards, we arrived at Chianti Sculpture Park with a beautiful view below and amazing art ahead. We froze on the tour and after, we came upon ‘la galleria,’ which also serves as, oh ya know… just the tour guides’ home! The house was full of even more breathtaking art, not to mention how every functioning thing in the home was a work of art itself. Even the speaker was one of the coolest looking things I’d ever seen. We were served only the freshest food and wine, straight from their own backyard, which of course was the sculpture park, complete with the most intricately beautiful pool. The olives were from, literally, right outside the door of this amazing home full of so much culture and history that doubled as a gallery. I felt honored that this simple, yet sophisticated couple was so willing to open up their home to us and let us into their world. They were absolutely adorable and clearly enjoy sharing their love of art and culture for everyone to see.
Now tonight…
Superhero Party!!!
Siena Day 5
Friday January 21, 2011
As the gentle quiet snow falls (yes.. it’s snowing. Not a real snow though, it melts as soon as it hits the ground) I feel that it’s tranquility is desperately needed after a rough night. A ’superhero party’ was to be held at a local pub last night and an unspoken agreement to not only go, but to flat out rage seemed to have been made between the 165 students here. Some (including myself) bought masks at the local 99 cent store. While out, my sweet, gentle roommate with only the best intentions seemed to have found herself pretty toasty after a night of free drinks. I had already been passed out in our room for sometime when I awoke to the sound of the strong, yet friendly voice of our protective friend George attempting to put a belligerently reluctant little Bailey to sleep for the night. Next, I heard a loud boom, some apologies and then forgiving. Unable to even open my eyes let alone comprehend the situation occurring right next to me, my body drifted back into a deep slumber. Next, I was abruptly awoken by a frantic friend searching hectically for Bailey’s passport and money. Somehow I managed to relay the safe’s code to her, yet was not capable of staying awake to figure out what on earth was happening right in front of me and I uncontrollably fell back into my coma. At 7:00 I awoke to the sound of Bailey’s phone alarm signaling it was time to get up for class, yet Bailey was nowhere to be found. After a groggy panic, I was able to find George who informed me that Bailey had hit her head really hard on the marble shelf behind our beds which caused slight bleeding and a passed out Bailey. George and three others had informed the hotel concierge, called an ambulance, and paid 50 Euro for a taxi ride to the hospital where they waited for 4 ½ hours yet were not allowed to see Bailey who had a concussion and needed a few stitches as well. Upon learning that I had no way of seeing or speaking to my poor, injured, scared roommate who had no friends or family present, my heart ached for her. Not knowing when I’ll see her, how she is, or what sort of trouble this means for her is extremely unsettling. During and after class (which probably held only half the student population today), I heard many other crazy stories of a night gone wrong, including peeing in the street, making an expensive international phone call, and throwing up. As the snow began to fall, I felt it was, in some way, washing away the night’s sins, cleansing the streets of the mess we left. It was there to settle the air, to calm the storm, to keep us inside for rest and warmth, in order to clear our heads, to quiet the left over tension and pause all the gossip. Snow was not expected on this trip, but it was definitely needed…
Siena Day 6
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Siena Day 7
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Siena Day 8
Monday, January 24, 2011
Siena Day 9
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Thurday January 20, 2011
Picture of the Day
6 tons of glass
Exactly how I pictured it. I though Diane Lane might actually come out and greet us. After winding roads of vineyards, we arrived at Chianti Sculpture Park with a beautiful view below and amazing art ahead. We froze on the tour and after, we came upon ‘la galleria,’ which also serves as, oh ya know… just the tour guides’ home! The house was full of even more breathtaking art, not to mention how every functioning thing in the home was a work of art itself. Even the speaker was one of the coolest looking things I’d ever seen. We were served only the freshest food and wine, straight from their own backyard, which of course was the sculpture park, complete with the most intricately beautiful pool. The olives were from, literally, right outside the door of this amazing home full of so much culture and history that doubled as a gallery. I felt honored that this simple, yet sophisticated couple was so willing to open up their home to us and let us into their world. They were absolutely adorable and clearly enjoy sharing their love of art and culture for everyone to see.
Now tonight…
Superhero Party!!!
Siena Day 5
Friday January 21, 2011
Picture of the Day.
Moulin Rouge Crepes & Nutella Crepes
As the gentle quiet snow falls (yes.. it’s snowing. Not a real snow though, it melts as soon as it hits the ground) I feel that it’s tranquility is desperately needed after a rough night. A ’superhero party’ was to be held at a local pub last night and an unspoken agreement to not only go, but to flat out rage seemed to have been made between the 165 students here. Some (including myself) bought masks at the local 99 cent store. While out, my sweet, gentle roommate with only the best intentions seemed to have found herself pretty toasty after a night of free drinks. I had already been passed out in our room for sometime when I awoke to the sound of the strong, yet friendly voice of our protective friend George attempting to put a belligerently reluctant little Bailey to sleep for the night. Next, I heard a loud boom, some apologies and then forgiving. Unable to even open my eyes let alone comprehend the situation occurring right next to me, my body drifted back into a deep slumber. Next, I was abruptly awoken by a frantic friend searching hectically for Bailey’s passport and money. Somehow I managed to relay the safe’s code to her, yet was not capable of staying awake to figure out what on earth was happening right in front of me and I uncontrollably fell back into my coma. At 7:00 I awoke to the sound of Bailey’s phone alarm signaling it was time to get up for class, yet Bailey was nowhere to be found. After a groggy panic, I was able to find George who informed me that Bailey had hit her head really hard on the marble shelf behind our beds which caused slight bleeding and a passed out Bailey. George and three others had informed the hotel concierge, called an ambulance, and paid 50 Euro for a taxi ride to the hospital where they waited for 4 ½ hours yet were not allowed to see Bailey who had a concussion and needed a few stitches as well. Upon learning that I had no way of seeing or speaking to my poor, injured, scared roommate who had no friends or family present, my heart ached for her. Not knowing when I’ll see her, how she is, or what sort of trouble this means for her is extremely unsettling. During and after class (which probably held only half the student population today), I heard many other crazy stories of a night gone wrong, including peeing in the street, making an expensive international phone call, and throwing up. As the snow began to fall, I felt it was, in some way, washing away the night’s sins, cleansing the streets of the mess we left. It was there to settle the air, to calm the storm, to keep us inside for rest and warmth, in order to clear our heads, to quiet the left over tension and pause all the gossip. Snow was not expected on this trip, but it was definitely needed…
Siena Day 6
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Picture of the Day.
San Gimigniano- View from the Tower
Siena Day 7
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Picture of the Day.
Exploring Siena on a lazy sunday.. the sun finally showed it's face :)
Siena Day 8
Monday, January 24, 2011
Picture of the Day.
The view on my walk to school every morning.
Siena Day 9
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Picture of the Day.
The perfect Tuesday afternoon: crackers, cheese, wine, fruit, & a good book.
19 January 2011
A Long Day.
Siena- Day 1
16.1.11
..awake at 2:30am. Complete with a delayed flight, lost luggage, 2 ½ hours of waiting after landing with not the slightest idea of what’s going on. My aching muscles, y throbbing head, my tired eyes, my growling belly are all silenced picturesque view of the quaint Italian countryside. When all is said and done, I am here, on a scenic bus ride from Pisa to Siena, the sun setting on the lush green valley. The most beautiful words are being spoken like a song only to convey the most trivial of things. They dance into my ears and ease my mind. I am reminded that a rose by any other name would smell as sweet when an unexpectedly friendly face greets me. I cannot help but be thankful to have felt so welcomed despite my longing for ties of old. Realizing how much I take for granted, the ability to remind a loved one of a cherished memory with only the press of a few buttons. So many things remind me of those I left behind me. After the gloom of metropolitan London, the sunny quiet simplicity of our journey warms and comforts my soul.
Picture of the Day.
Roomie :)
Siena- Day 2
17.1.11
Picture of the Day.
Check...
16.1.11
..awake at 2:30am. Complete with a delayed flight, lost luggage, 2 ½ hours of waiting after landing with not the slightest idea of what’s going on. My aching muscles, y throbbing head, my tired eyes, my growling belly are all silenced picturesque view of the quaint Italian countryside. When all is said and done, I am here, on a scenic bus ride from Pisa to Siena, the sun setting on the lush green valley. The most beautiful words are being spoken like a song only to convey the most trivial of things. They dance into my ears and ease my mind. I am reminded that a rose by any other name would smell as sweet when an unexpectedly friendly face greets me. I cannot help but be thankful to have felt so welcomed despite my longing for ties of old. Realizing how much I take for granted, the ability to remind a loved one of a cherished memory with only the press of a few buttons. So many things remind me of those I left behind me. After the gloom of metropolitan London, the sunny quiet simplicity of our journey warms and comforts my soul.
Picture of the Day.
Roomie :)
17.1.11
Picture of the Day.
Check...
Siena- Day 3
18.1.11
Picture of the Day.
Nutella Doughcake
Siena- Day 3
19.1.11
Picture of the Day.
Wine Tasting.
09 January 2011
A different kind of goodbye.
Today consisted of seeing faces for the last time. Tomorrow I leave my crummy, yet lovable hometown of Visalia to visit the land of Vanguardia for a few days before I take off for good. It was a surreal feeling. I've been waiting for this time to come for about 3 years, as the process began and it became more of a reality (my going to Italy) it only grew that much harder to wait for it. This past month was full of anxious anticipation, but then this last week it hit me.. i had a LOT to do. I was going out of the country in a WEEK. Then came the feelings of dreading packing, stressing and overwhelming. But today.. today was weird. I've been away home for months at a time before, but was still only 3-4 hours away, or at least a phone call. I've gone far from home before, without being able to contact home, but only for a couple weeks. A trip home was always just around the corner. This time, it's 4 months away, and about 6,500 miles. No phone calls home.
I've always been independent.. summer camp for a week at age 6 with no qualms about leaving home or missing parents, just down for the adventure. I've been waiting for this kind of freedom and independence for so long. Get me out of this country. I'm over the top excited for what's ahead of me, can't wait to meet me, to discover who I am, to discover a whole new world (haha). Yet, i'll miss those who have shaped this adventure-seeking girl, this girl i'm about to meet head on. I can't believe it's actually time to say goodbye. My mom was the hardest. I've really come to appreciate and respect and love and miss her more than ever before. She is not only my mom, but my best friend, just like she's always said, only now I understand it. One final goodbye to those special Visalians, i'll miss you!
Talon
AJ
Nate
Dana
Daniela, Leah
Korrinne
Mom, Andres, Audrey, Jude
Dad, Jake, Charlotte, Molly
Amber, Lashe, Rissa
Hannah
Papa, Bana
So after painful goodbyes here, I leave, but not really. Off to Costa Mesa tomorrow to see the rest of the faces i'll miss terribly while i'm away. Then it's goodbye yet again and the real journey begins..
I've always been independent.. summer camp for a week at age 6 with no qualms about leaving home or missing parents, just down for the adventure. I've been waiting for this kind of freedom and independence for so long. Get me out of this country. I'm over the top excited for what's ahead of me, can't wait to meet me, to discover who I am, to discover a whole new world (haha). Yet, i'll miss those who have shaped this adventure-seeking girl, this girl i'm about to meet head on. I can't believe it's actually time to say goodbye. My mom was the hardest. I've really come to appreciate and respect and love and miss her more than ever before. She is not only my mom, but my best friend, just like she's always said, only now I understand it. One final goodbye to those special Visalians, i'll miss you!
Talon
AJ
Nate
Dana
Daniela, Leah
Korrinne
Mom, Andres, Audrey, Jude
Dad, Jake, Charlotte, Molly
Amber, Lashe, Rissa
Hannah
Papa, Bana
So after painful goodbyes here, I leave, but not really. Off to Costa Mesa tomorrow to see the rest of the faces i'll miss terribly while i'm away. Then it's goodbye yet again and the real journey begins..
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