Sono qui! (I am here!)

I can't even begin to describe how awesome this experience has been!

I have to admit, the journey across the Atlantic was not fun. Saying goodbye to my family was rough, and I felt so alone and overwhelmed on my way over. Getting into Germany at 5:45am wasn't fun either. I had no idea how to get to my gate, not to mention I hardly slept at all on the plane ride over so I was extremely exhausted. I kept thinking to myself Why am I doing this? I want to go home!.....apparently I was going through my "crisis" stage of Culture Shock, as we have learned today in Orientation.

Now that it has been a couple of days, I have settled in for the most part. I feel like I have done so much stuff that I don't even know where to begin! I've made so many new friends, eaten delicious (and extremely fresh) food, and walked around until my feet become a killer pain. I have the cutest little apartment that I share with 3 other girls, and it has a wonderful view overlooking Florence. It makes me really happy, and I love being able to call it home for the next 4 months.

Things I have learned about Italy....

1. Italian guys are OBNOXIOUS. I was warned that they would somewhat "harass" me, but I honestly didn't know what to expect. At orientation, the ladies were told to "not look at Italian men" because then they think you LIKE them. When exploring around Florence one night, my roommate Laura and I got catcalled by 3-4 different guys...Ciao bella! What is name? *whistle whistle* Kissy kissy!! ....Wow. It reminds me of what my dad said... "You watch out for those Italian guys, Elizabeth Anne. They'll pinch your butt ya know!" Oh Harry.

2. EVERYTHING IS EXPENSIVE. But I sort of already knew that...

3. Don't let anyone know you're an American, because they aren't very nice to you if you act your obnoxious American ways. However, if you attempt to speak Italian and smile a lot (in my experience), most Italians are friendly and appreciate you for adapting to the culture.

4. Life is different here. Much more relaxed and enjoyable. Italians don't really have a sense of time, so things feel calm and not so hurried.

Now for some pictures!

My room in my apartment! I love the double doors.

Me at the Duomo. I seriously get goosebumps every time I see this building. Ahh!

Me and my roommate, Laura, enjoying lunch by the Duomo!

THE UFFIZI!!! I am going here every second I can. (Art Museum that houses some of the most important pieces in Italian Renaissance art).

Delicious Paninis....the meat and cheese was so fresh. 

School starts on Monday and I have a lot to do by then: get my "Permit to Stay," buy my books, run some school related errands, attend many events, explore more of Florence, and SEE THE UFFIZI! 

More to come later. Comments are welcome! :)

Ciao!