Thanksgiving in the beautiful Florence.

The few days before Thanksgiving and our time in Florence ended up being one of the most incredible weeks in Italy.  First of all, we only had three day of classes, which is always great.  But before we left, we had some pretty awesome activities in the former days. 

To begin, Monday morning we got up quite early and went to the Vatican for mass.  Fr. Nicholas Becker from St. John's is currently in Rome and he agreed to say mass for us in the lower level of St. Peter's Basilica.  I know, it really doesn't get any better than that.  He took us below the church to where there are many small chapels for mass.  Our group felt quite important to say the least.  The mass was really beautiful and I loved being in that setting amongst my fellow Bennies and Johnnies.  That morning was one of my favorites and it reminded me how blessed by God I really am.

That evening, we had Theology class at St. Paul's Basilica (St. Paul Outside the Walls).  This church is exceptionally beautiful.  When we walked in, I couldn't believe how large it was.  It's very open; much of it is empty due to it's size and somehow I found peace in that.  These large churches remind me how truly big our God is.  It's amazing really, he lives and breathes within us, but yet He is our creator, bigger and more powerful than anything on this earth.  I have found that in each church I visit, these thoughts always find me again.  What was even more incredible was the fact that St. Paul's tomb is located below this church.  We were not informed of this beforehand so when we were, I was definitely excited.  Paul's letters in the Bible tend to be my favorite and to say the least, I was in awe.  Everything becomes more real, and that's the way Rome is in general.  So much history is beneath where I walk now.  Most of the time, I can hardly even wrap my head around it.

The following night, our director Greg took us to an Opera performance (again, how lucky am I?)!  It wasn't your typical performance, for it didn't have a story line, rather it was segments of different songs performed.  Each segment was only a few minutes, but there were quite a few of them.  Never seeing an Opera, I didn't know what to expect or if I would even like it for that matter.  To my pleasant surprise, it was very good.  There were four different singers, two male and two female.  Generally I enjoy male voices more, so I did during this performance as well.  The two men were very theatrical and had very strong vocals.  This group also had a great orchestra.  It was small, but really good!  And might I add, our group looked very snazzy for the night.  Then guys sported their ties and us girls delivered as well, as always.  Afterwards, guess what Jen did?  Oh yes, she went and got gelato.  Me and a few other girls (naturally) tried out a new gelato shop, which is now one my favorites.  It has Oreo (OMG) and a really delicious cinnamon.  I've probably been there 3 more times since then =) 

The following morning, we took off for Florence!  Our whole group had really been looking forward to this for quite some time and of course, Florence delivered.  It was an incredible Thanksgiving.  Everyone had the intention of doing a lot of Christmas shopping, and let me tell you, hooooly wow it happened.  Florence is known for its leather and everyone took advantage.  Many belts, purses, wallets, and boots were bought.  The leather market is huge and it's really fun to just walk through it.  I tried out my bartering skills and let me tell you, I'm quite awesome.  I managed to knock down a few prices, and most importantly, my boot purchase =)

So, going into this weekend trip, I had really wanted to find leather boots.  I was willing to spend 80 euro, and no more (it's partially a Christmas gift, chill).  There was a store on the corner near our hotel and I had walked quickly through once before, but upon my second visit, two men remembered me.  There was a pair of boots that I loved, but they were 120 euro.  He could tell that I really loved them.  Pretty quickly, he knocked down the price to 100 euro, but I told him that I was a student and could definitely not pay that much.  When he asked me how much I was willing to pay, I said 80 and he pretty much cringed at that.  Now, these guys were quite the charmers and were trying very hard to get me to buy the boots.  Europeans love to bother you while you're trying to shop.  They stand right in your face and show you pretty much every product they have in their dang stand.  Most of the time it frustrates me enough to walk away, but in this particular case, it turned out quite well =)  He asked me to try them on at least, and I could tell things were potentially looking up, so I decided to.  I had them on and was walking around the store and the man asked me, "how much do you love these boots?"  I said, "oh I love them quite a lot, but I can't pay 100 euro."  He gave me the 'you are so relentless' look.  He then asked me if I'd buy them, and I responded, "80 euro?"  He then proceeded to say, "Ughh fine, special discount for you!  Double discount, but don't tell my manage!  Don't tell anyone!"  He rattled some Italian off to his coworker, and before you knew it, I had the boots and was out the door.  I was pretty much in shock, for this all happened within probably 15 minutes.  I guess you could say I slightly love them... the following morning when I woke up, I rolled over and said good morning to my boots.  Yes, I actually greeted my boots.  

That was definitely one of my highlights, but the rest of the weekend was really incredible.  Our hotel was beautiful, for one, and we were in a great location.  Within a few blocks, we were in the central part of Florence where many of its attractions are located.  I have failed to mention that we actually had class during this time, but I just really don't find it to hold that much importance.  I did see the David by Michelangelo, but other than that, I saw a lot of stuff in a lot of museums.  Some of you may be wondering why the attitude, but oddly enough, I have found that museums and me don't really get along.  I can handle them for a short while, but then I just lose focus.  The art I love and am talented at is quite different than what I've been seeing (Renaissance pieces).  Oh well, you learn to appreciate new things!

There were many highlights of the trip and I really wish I could cover them all, but this blog would be way too freakin' long.  To begin, our Thanksgiving dinner was definitely a favorite.  On Thursday night, our hotel made us a Thanksgiving meal.  They really tried to make it authentic, which we were all so appreciative of.  Our turkey was very good, and they made us a cake that was supposed to have USA colors, but looked more so like baby blue, pink and white.  Gotta love the attempt!  Our director Greg and his wife asked that we all held hands and go around to say what we were thankful for.  This was a really great moment.  It really put into perspective how much this group is like a new family to me.  To say the least, so much to be thankful for this semester.  

My wonderful roommates!

Beautiful spot of Florence!

There were many incredible conversations and dinners out as well.  Two nights we went for pizza and both times it was so delicious.  I easily get sick of pizza at home, but here it seriously never gets old.  Another night, me and a few girls went to an Irish bar, which was really great.  I finally tried Cider, which some girls had really raved about.  It is now one of my favorite drinks.  It's closely related to beer, but is much sweeter and doesn't have that horrible after taste.  

I also managed to have gelato 3 times while in Florence (oops, but not really).  The last time though.. oh jeesh.  So my friend Kate, who neeeeever suggest gelato, did.  Naturally, Laura and I knew we had to get it then.  (Now, remember how Kate started it all.)  So I then decided on a place that we had walked by a few times.  When we arrived, we all decided to get a SMALL cone with only TWO flavors.  We figured it would be, as it says, small.  And we also figured it would be cheap.  Well, I went first and picked my two flavors.  I notice that as she places the first scope, it happens to be HUGE.  I then start to worry as she dishes up the next heap.  She then proceeds to place whipped cream and fourrrrrr waffle pieces on it.  She looks at us, points at the cone, and says "Mickey Mouse!!" with a big smile on her face.  I hesitantly grabbed the huge cone and looked at her like, "Are you serious?"  So when I go to pay, I know this is not going to be cheap.  Well yep, I was right.  7 euro! ... on gelato!  We were so full after eating those things, but I am going to be quite honest with you all, it was delicious and I don't regret it.   

The ultimate gelato experience:  "The Mickey Mouse" cone

Beyond that, we also went to mass at the Duomo, which is the largest church in Florence and also the focal point for pretty much everything else.  It is lavishly decorated on the outside and a famous masterpiece.  I don't particularly like the design, but mass inside was beautiful.  Many times throughout the weekend I also went to the famous bridge of Florence.  It is famous because it stayed standing throughout the World Wars when all the others did not.  It also is lined with really expensive jewelry stores.  It's fun to walk up and down the bridge just to see the absurd prices.  At night it was also all lit up with Christmas lights!  

Our last day, we meandered around the city and just enjoyed the sites.  We walked to Michelangelo's piazza, toured the Pitti Gardens and palace, and then had some panini's to finish off the afternoon.  I did indeed find lots of gifts for my family and overall, really loved the city.  Florence is gorgeous and I am glad I actually got to go there twice.  I'd say I'm quite blessed to be able to spend Thanksgiving in such a beautiful place with such great people. 

Love these girls!

The famous bridge, lined with jewelry shops.

I'm trying to bring you all up to date as fast as I can, but there has been so much going on, for the days in Europe are coming to an end.  Only 5 are left and we are all in disbelief at how fast this all went.  I will try my best to blog a bit more, but otherwise, I will see you all at the end of the week! =)

God bless & pray for appropriate weather and safe travels home!

God is good.

I'm still in attempts of catching you guys up, but I'm getting close!

To begin where I left off, the weekend following our morning at the Vatican for sunrise was one of the best here.  Starting with Friday, we had a quiet day just with Italian class.  This class, being only once a week, has been a challenge but also really fun.  Italian is seriously the best language.  It not only rolls right off the tongue, but it sounds oh so amazing.  Our Italian professor Mario?  Oh what a treat =)  He's quite hilarious, but also has just the best accent.  One of his favorite key phrases has to be, "ahh, shit, I kill you!"  Now obviously people, he doesn't mean it.  He's always smiling, winking at us girls, and charming us with how wonderfully suave he is.  No worries everyone, a little Italian crush won't hurt anyone! (Sorry Jordan!)

On Saturday, a few of us made our way to the Vatican Museum!  About time, right?  Well we were waiting for the opportune moment so that we would have plenty of time to see as much as we could.  Well folks, we spent 5 freakin' hours in there.  Now, I am not a museum person.  At all.  Well, if you let me explore on my own, maybe.  But about 97% of the time I get bored within an hour.  But the Vatican held my attention very easily.  It is filled with everything you can imagine and having learned about so many pieces in my Art History class, I felt quite smart.  My favorite though, was obviously the Raphael Rooms and the Sistine Chapel.  The Raphael rooms have scenes covering the walls and ceilings.  I would explain them to you, but it'd take way to long.  Google it for your own benefits, it's beautiful I promise.  The Sistine Chapel though, was incredible.  First of all, it's a bit smaller than I had imagined.  But it does excel its reputation in how exceptional it is.  Michelangelo managed to paint the entire ceiling in four years, but suffered dearly because of it.  His posture to do so was constantly arched backwards and his sight suffered horribly afterwards; he could only see things if they were a couple feet in front of him.  Before this, he actually had little experience in painting; his expertise was sculpture, but you'd never be able to tell.  The ceiling is filled with symbolic meaning and the colors are just beautiful.  Photos are not allowed in the chapel (they make that clear within 2 seconds of being in there) but I managed to sneak like 7!  Psh, tight security, didn't phase me a bit!  Following our visit at the museum, we obviously went to Old Bridge Gelato.  This place is right by the Vatican so whenever I'm in that vicinity, I never miss the chance to go.  It is one of my favorites, and I've recently found out it's open until 2am =)  I may have to take advantage before heading home!

Sistine Chapel!

Old Bridge Gelato my friends =)

Sunday was awesome.  Kate, Laura, and I went on a day trip to Assisi, which is in the north of Italy.  Assisi is a common place for pilgrimages so us being all Theology majors, we were quite excited.  After being there for only an hour, I knew it was one of my favorite places.  It's a very small town, quant and filled with small streets leading in every which way direction.  As I've mentioned before, us 3 really enjoy just exploring, so that's what the majority of our day consisted of.  Oh and we went into a llllot of churches, which I highly enjoy also.  The town is mostly recognized because of St. Francis, who is also the patron Saint of Italy.  He is an amazing man of faith, but it had not always been that way.  He came from a very rich family and he had the persona of that.  He enjoyed the sinful life, as he said later in his life and everyone really loved him.  He thought of himself highly and desired to be the best he could be, by the worlds standards.  It was on his horse that the Lord confronted him and his life changed dramatically from there on out.  He spent extensive amounts in a cave praying and lost all connection with his family, for they did not approve of the path he chose.  He lived zealously for the Lord and he continues to be a very prevalent role model for the Christian world.  When visiting, we were able to see where he was imprisoned by his own father, where he prayed, and the church built for his names sake.  Below this church is his tomb, which was an amazing sight.  The Italians have a very strong love for Francis and it is apparent in how many people visit Assisi.  There a specific cross design that resembles St. Francis and it stands for his belief that we must remember to be crucified to the Lord daily.  His passion and love for the Lord is inspiring and I feel so blessed to have been able to go to such a holy and sacred place.

I loved the architecture.

St. Francis Church

Beautiful sunset.

We had an amazing day exploring and I always love being with those two girls.  We have similar interests and never fail to have great conversations.  We also enjoyed an amazing lunch in a small hidden restaurant.  I had bruschetta and ravioli- sooo delicious.  I really wish I could bring this food back with me.  Anyway, we loved it.  God has been so present, in my time in Rome especially, and I have been incredibly blessed to walk where all these radical men and women of faith have journeyed before.

I must end here, for it is 1am.  I'll (hopefully) post again soon!  11 days to go my friends, so bittersweet.
Godbless!

The Beginning of the End.

I've been trying my best to keep up with this, so we're going to continue from where I left off (Tokyo man).  I may be a bit behind, but I'm including as much as I can! Patience, my friend, patience.

So, our third weekend here was a really great time.  Beginning with Friday, our school provided us a with tour of the biggest film-making site in Europe, Cinecitta (Chin-cheetah).  This was really fun, we were able to see sets from Gangs of New York and Italian films.  One particular site was absolutely huge and it was designed into what Ancient Rome is believed to look like.  I felt as if I was walking through such a time.  It really amazes me of what people are capable of creating.  Turns out, parts of The Passion were also filmed in this place.  My favorite part of the tour was a documentary that we were able to watch about how a film is made, after the actual filming takes place.  The editing process, music selection, lighting & sound effects is what truly fascinates me most.  Overall, it was pretty awesome.
That afternoon, a few of my roommates and I took off for Villa Borghese, a huge park within the Northern part of Rome.  It had been recommended to us that we visit and rent bikes to ride around.  It was a beautiful afternoon so we thought we'd take advantage!  Well, it was sooo great.  One of my favorite things I've done here thus far!  We rented the bikes for an hour and rode around the park.  It's a beautiful park and has many great outlooks over the city.  We just so happened to go nearing sunset, so we were able to see a beautiful one occur.  The fall colors were gorgeous and I'd say to anyone: go!  It's a blast.  Thinking about picnic-ing it up soon!

Villa Borghese Park!

We are just so cute.

Look at that wishing skill.

To end the day, we went to the Trevi Fountain in order to make the most epic of epic wishes.  The date was 11/11/11 and we went at 11:11.  This was hilarious because Americans pretty much took over the fountain.  First off, military time is used here so "11:11" is actually 23:11 to them.  Second of all, I really don't think "11:11" is a thing for them.  Regardless, 10 seconds before the minute, over a 100 Americans or so counted down to the time.  I just loved this.  At that minute, I made my wish and threw my coin into the fountain! All the girls of my group did the same, we represented well I'd say.

Following that night, we went to Pompeii, Sorento and Naples for the weekend.  In Pompeii, we went a saw the ruins of the volcanic disaster.  This eruption, which occurred over 6 miles away, wiped out the citizens of the city, but much of the buildings still stand.  It's actually amazing at how well preserved the site is.  Within our two hour tour, we didn't even cover half of what remains.  We walked through what use to be houses, restaurants, stores, bathing halls and a few stadiums.  I was really amazed at this place.
Following that, we went to Sorento to spend the night.  Sorento is a cute little town that is along the coast.  Our hotel provided us with an amazing dinner as well (ravioli, chicken with potatoes and green beans, finished with dessert).  It was a great night spent visiting with the group and just hanging out.
In the morning, we took off for Naples, which is also along the coast.  We went to a museum in the morning, but then the rest of the day was ours for exploring.  We all started out by going out for pizza.  Pizza was invented in Naples and is thus known for its incredible pizza.  Well folks, easily the best pizza I've ever hard.  Naples held up to it's reputation quite well.
It just so happened to be Sunday and because it's nearing Christmas, Naples was craaaazy.  They have two to three particular streets that are just packeddddd.  They specialize in making Nativity scenes, along with other little Christmas trinkets.  We were hardly able to walk through it was so busy.  We were also recommended a bakery by our school staff so when we arrived to try it, we were shocked at how packed it was.  It was completely filled with people and you had to take a number just to place your order.  Our director's wife was with us and she was an amazing help.  We were quite overwhelmed, but she turned the situation into a cultural experience.  Instead of seeing it as simply a packed bakery, it was an Italian bakery where this is a typical afternoon.  If you take the time to notice, no one is upset about having to wait, that's just the way it is.  The women taking orders find joy in the experience.  They were often laughing at the crowds and eagerly helping as fast as they could.  People rattle off in Italian extremely fast, push and shove their way to the front, and go about their business.  This my friends, is Italy.  There is no such thing as line, you just get yourself up to the front sometime.  It is culturally known, so no one really gets upset.  I ended up really valuing this experience and fell even more in love with this crazy culture.

Naples!

Upon returning from our weekend away, we had an awesome week awaiting us.  Monday night, our school staff took us out for Nutella crepes at one of their favorite places.  For those of you who don't know what a crepe is, it is like a very large, flat pancake that Nutella and whatever else is placed within.  Mine in particular had Nutella and white chocolate Nutella with coconut pieces.  Ooohhhmg so delicious.  Quite rich, but so good.  Everyone should try these little heavenly gems.  Prior to this, I've had one in Greece with strawberries/Nutella, and then one in Paris, with Nutella and whipped cream.  Mmmm, so good =)

Now I know I am constantly listing all of these awesome things that we do, but don't worry, I have lots of class as well.  We have each class about once a week and we're pretty much always out in the city touring something.  We are so fortunate to be able to do this, and our professors are really great.  I've seen countless beautiful churches, endless ancient ruin sites, and museums filled with exceptional art.  I count myself blessed everyday for this, regardless of how exhausted I feel at the end of the day.
Greg's (my director) class is always one of my favorites.  We were able to go back to Villa Borghese and watch the sunset with the whole group.  Everyone really enjoyed it and the sunset was one of the most beautiful I've ever seen.

Class visit to Victor Emmanuel!

Obsessed with these trees.

Vatican at sunrise.

The next morning, a group of us took off for the Vatican to watch the sunrise.  Although it isn't really elevated on a hill, the color of the sky turned a little purple that morning and the coming of the morning was really beautiful.  It was especially cold that morning, so we didn't stay too long.  We didn't waste too much time getting back lol.  These mornings I particularly enjoy, for I don't have class until 2:30.  So being up and having the whole morning to myself is really enjoyable.  I've enjoyed countless mornings on our terrace and the sun has been shining for the whole month of November for us.  Typically in Rome, this is the rainy season but we've been especially blessed to have hardly any (knock on wood).  Today marks the day of the 1st of December, and yes that means I have only 15 days left.  I really can't believe it, but I'm trying to not think about how little of time is left, and just enjoy what I have.  I continue to get to know my group and it's really been such a gift.  I love everyone here for their own reasons and truly cherish the impact they've all had on my life.

Now, the studying for finals must begin.  I will try to blog a few more times before leaving, but I am warning you, it may be lacking.  But I will try! =)

See you all soon =)  Godbless.

It really is the good life.

Look at me, blogging already.  You all really should be proud.  I mean really, this is quite impressive.

Everything has been going swimmingly thus far and life in Roma continues to be an adventure.  We are often so busy that by the time we get back to our apartments, I eat dinner, pretend to do homework, and then reside to my wonderful bed for some much needed sleep.  Time is really flying by and in under a month I'll already be home.  flkfjdskgkdfjgkfdgh.  That actually describes my emotions quite accurately.

For our first weekend away, we went to Subiaco, Italy.  This a annual event that this program always goes on due to the fact that there's the St. Benedict monastery.  We also visited the St. Scholastic monastery, where of which we were provided an amazing 3 course lunch.  Each of these places were absolutely gorgeous.  St. Benedict's is built into the side of the mountains and the view is just breathtaking.  It was great to be in the actual place where St. Benedict lived and prayed; it really put into perspective what my college is based on and built after.

Such a beautiful place

Beautiful city

St. Benedict Monestary

Look at how cute we are!

The following day, Kate, Laura and I went to english mass which was oh so appreciated.  We've been to masses in French, Italian, Greek, Latin.. Spanish.. ugh.  It was so nice to actually understand!  Following that, we went to the huge Sunday market our director, Greg, recommended.  Seriously, it's so huge.  And it be quite honest, a lot of it is odd.  If you need some undies (sick), of all assortments, this place can help you out.  I mean how not creepy is it to buy your personal items from a vendor yelling, "1 EUROOOO!"  in your face.  Don't worry, I didn't buy any, or anything else for that matter.  We enjoyed exploring and may venture back again before we leave.  I mean, it is cheap.  Following, Laura and I spent the afternoon exploring the streets of Rome.  Her and I really enjoy walking without an agenda.  It isn't any wonder that we often migrate toward one another, Kate included.  We enjoy having no plan and just seeing what we find.  It's always a great way to spend an afternoon. 

The beginning of the week was filled with class excursions that I particularly liked.  For theology, we toured through 3 churches, my favorite being Santa Sabina Basilica.  It's quite old and not in the best condition, but it's location and historical background make up for it.  Here, the Pope says Ash Wednesday mass every year.  Our professor, who works for the Vatican, attends annually and said that even though it's packed, it's an amazing service and one of his favorite churches in Rome.

On the following day, Greg took us to San Carlo Basilica.  It being one of his favorite churches, he wanted us to go and reflect on its style, architecture, art, and particular characteristics.  A tad bit too much gold for my taste, but the Stations of the Cross were some of the most beautiful I've ever seen.  After that, our group went for gelato.  Awww, the joys of gelato.  This place, hidden amongst the sides street, was delicious, but odd as well.  I had cinnamon ginger, which was oh so good, but they also had flavors like bleu cheese, pepper, and mustard.  They were tempting to taste, but I just couldn't do it.  Maybe next time.

Following that, my roommates and I went to Piazza Navona, which is one of my favorite squares of Rome.  One of the girls had been recommended a restaurant called Monte Carlo.  You all should go, it's cheap and delicious.  Margherita pizza for 4 euro baby.  Better believe it.  Great food, even better company.  I truly love my roommates, they're so great.  Following that, we went back to the square and meandered around listening to musicians and looking at art.  Wonderful evening, indeed.

The proceeding morning, a few of us managed to get up and go see the sunrise at the Spanish steps.  Turns out that us Americans are actually the only ones that call them that.  They have this connotation merely for the fact that they link to the Spanish embassy.  They were actually constructed by the French and the church at the top is French.  So really they're really the French steps.  Maybe I should break the social norms and call them that.

Anyway, they're packed.  All the time.  Another fun fact about Rome, when you sit down to eat somewhere, there is usually a charge to do so.  They call it a "service" charge, but really they just want you to pay for the view or that precious little seat.  So having this ginormous staircase to sit on for free is something everyone takes advantage of.  Well, at sunrise my friends, they were completely empty.  NO ONE THERE!  We didn't see the sunrise (not elevated high enough), but hey, they were empty.  That's awesome enough in itself.  Now, to make our morning even better, may I introduce you to Tokyo man.  

When we were at the top of the steps, simply minding our own business, this cute little man comes up to us and asks for us to take his picture.  Of course we agreed, that wouldn't be a problem!  He was so grateful, bowing and repeatedly saying, "Thaaank you, thank you!!" But after we did that.. he requested a picture of us.  We thought he offered to take our picture, but oh no, he just wanted a picture of us on his camera.  So we all pose and thus automatically end up being his "American friends".  By this point we were all laughing because this man was just way too awesome.  Gets even better.  He then hands the camera to Laura (he really wanted her to take the picture) and motions to the rest of us to be in his picture.  Oh but that's not all, he wants us to squat.  Yea, squat.  So here we are, all staggered about super hero style with our arms extended and thumbs up.. squatting.  Oh the joys of 7am.  This guy made my day, actually week, most definitely.

The empty Spanish (French?) steps!

I could continue writing, but I feel as if Tokyo man needs to be the end of my post.  Plus, I'm really hungry and tired of typing.  I will write again soon, I promise.  I hope everything at home is going wonderfully for everyone.  I am missing you all very much and looking forward to being with you all again.  This week we head to Florence for our Thanksgiving break.  Although I'm beyond excited, I will miss Thanksgiving at home immensely.  Enjoy all the delicious food and football for me!  And being away from school =)

Love & Godbless you all!

Livin' the Italian life.

To be quite honest with all you readers (if there are that many?), I'm really lacking in motivation for this blog.  I am constantly reminding myself, "aah man, I should really blog!"... but it just never seems to happen.  There is one very legitimate reason for this.

I'M LIVING IN ROME. ROME, ITALY.

There is so much to do!  And another important factor is that from today, I leave in exactly a month.  That's right, 30 days folks and this girl will be back in the United States.  There is so much to be done and seen before that point, so as you can now understand, blogging is not quite the main priority.  After that little rant, I am ready to update you all on my wonderful life here in Roma.

It has almost been 3 weeks since I've arrived and I can hardly believe it.  So much has happened since that point so I will do my best to highlight the majority of what has occurred.  To begin, my apartment is awesome.  We are on the fifth floor and have a terrace.  Yeeeep, no joke.  Now, the amount of steps to get up to our apartment is a painful amount, but our outlook over the city and ability to sit outside, drink tea and read (yes, I've done all these things) makes it completely worth it.  I am living with 6 other girls and it has been pretty much perfect thus far.  Plenty of space, two bathrooms, and lots of bonding.  It's so great.
Our school staff at CEA is incredible.  Well generally, Italians are incredible.  Immediately I felt so at home at the school and everyone is extremely helpful.  Not to mention hilarious.  My Art history professor, Paulo is such a character.  Plaid shirts with checkered scarves, tinted glasses, and a turquoise coat can hopefully paint a bit of a picture for you.  My Italian language professor, Mario, is a heart throb to every girl at our school, and my Theology professor has the thickest British accent I've ever heard.  He's quite intimidating, but he also has a subtle humor that can be very entertaining.  My history professor... well he's one of a kind.  Though he fills our brains with way too much information, he is hilarious and bought me and a few others pastries recently.  If he understood my dessert obsession, he'd know how many points that gains with me.  Overall- they're incredible.

I must mention the Italians and the Roman lifestyle.  So first off, these Europeans in general really have no sense of personal space.  Getting in your face and shoving right up next to you are your normal everyday occurrences.  At first, I found this very uncomfortable, but by now, it really has grown on me.  I love the comfort they feel with everyone.  But this simple difference shows me a lot.  People are not afraid to get in your face, to push your limits and challenge you a little bit.  I've really come to appreciate it.  Also, Italians specifically are obsessed with their car horns.  It's actually ridiculous.  If someone honks, it's as if everyone else joins in just because they can.  If a light is red, you might as well honk until it turns green just because.  Apparently the loud obnoxious-ness of it doesn't phase them.  Another note on transportation is the blessed bus.  A lot of people hate it, and I can understand why.  You cram in with way too many people and bump your away around the city until you get where you need to be.  Not only that, but the bus comes whenever it wants.  Sometimes it's a 5 minute wait, and others it's a 45 minute wait.  I've experienced both.  You'd think I'd hate it, but I actually love the bus.  I can to see the whole city and get places fast (relatively).  It's great.  Another European thing is time.  People aren't in a rush, ever really.  For example, we've had quite the plumbing issues in our apartment since we've arrived.  From toilet issues to flooding from our heater, we've needed a lot of assistance.  Well, that assistance shows up whenever it pleases in Roma.  Sometimes quickly, but sometimes a week later.  The awesome thing?  They do just fine.  Europeans are just more relaxed.  Things will get done when they get done and you manage in between then.  I have also come to love this.

Now to move on to what I've been doing!  During our first few days, we had to start Italy off with a bang by having a Halloween party.  My apartment, being 7 of us, decided to dress up as the 7 Deadly Sins.  These 7 sins consist of Greed, Envy, Lust, Pride, Gluttony, Wrath, and Sloth. We had so much fun planning this and I was fortunate enough to be Wrath.  Muahahaa, I enjoyed this way too much.  After putting on loads of crazy make-up and fierce clothes, I pretty much rocked the part.  Many did comment that my look was quite legit.  Overall- huge success, we all looked awesome.

Legit, right??

7 Deadly Sins.

The following day, we had no class due to it being All Saint's Day, a Roman holiday.  A few of us decided to go to the Vatican for mass that morning and I was beyond excited, for it was my first time (of many now).  When I entered St. Peter's Square, my breath was literally taken away.  It is as beautiful as you would imagine.  Not only that, but St. Peter's Basilica is beyond words.  I wish I could describe how incredible it is, but it is something that one has to see.  God's presence and holiness reigns in that place.  As I knelt before the altar prior to mass beginning, tears filled my eyes.  It was one of the moments when you truly realize how blessed and fortunate you are.  Following mass, a cousin of a girl on our trip found us a offered us a free tour!  He is studying in the seminary and has been living in Rome for about a year now.  He was kind enough to show us around the Basilica and then proceed to show us his school and a beautiful view of the city.  Again, how lucky can a girl get?  Well, let me tell you, there was one more amazing event: gelato.  Now, I could talk to you all about gelato for about an hour probably, but I'll save that for a later date ;).  We had been recommended numerous times the Old Bridge Gelateria.  It is conveniently near the Vatican so that is where we finished our afternoon.  And, people were not kidding.  This place is AMAZING.  Not only is it cheap, but they give you SO much!  Now I've been there probably 4 times.  Yea, I'm not kidding guys when I say I'm obsessed with this stuff.  I'm taking full advantage while I'm here :). 

Speaking of food, later in the week our school staff took us on a pizza and gelato crawl.  Chyea, for real.  Doesn't get much better than that, right?  Anyway, we were able to try numerous kinds of pizza and then finish off with some gelato.  Ugh, we were stuffed but it was so delicious.  Plus, it was a great night out with the staff!  We love free food!  After we finished up with that, a few of us made a night visit to the Vatican.  That is another place that I will visit as much as I can while here.  It is very beautiful at night all lit up.

St. Peter's Basilica.

The next day, a few of us decided to go to the Colosseum for sunrise!  This was another idea that had been recommended to us by many.  It truly is the best time to see the main sites.  The Colosseum is amazing.  It is crazy how well it has stood throughout time.  Seeing it at sunrise is such a bonus.  The sun gleams through the windows and it's quite beautiful.  Plus, no one is there.  How great is that?  After the Colosseum, we decided to head to the Trevi Fountain.  This is one of the biggest fountains in Rome, but it has gained it's fame from coin throwing.  Seriously, eeeeveryone throws a coin.  I'd like to think you're supposed to make a wish, but apparently it means that one day you will return to Rome.  Wish anyway, is what I say.  Anyway, it's always packed, so I really enjoyed being there early as well.  Hardly anyone was there!  We've been doing this every week since.  When initially getting up, it isn't the greatest, but once outside and on the lovely bus, it's completely worth it.

6 am baby!

The Trevi Fountain.

That's all for now, I've rambled for quite sometime.  I hope all is well at home!  I truly miss everyone, but my time in Europe has been just amazing.  I am completely in love with Rome and I really don't want to leave.  No worries though, I'm sure by December 16th I'll be ready.  For now, I'm doing everything I can while here.

Love & God bless to you all.
Jen

Mid-Break: Germany & Italy.

Hello beautiful people!

Before our arrival in Rome, we were able to spend about a week traveling wherever we pleased.  A good portion of our group met their family, but the rest of us formed groups and went out on different adventures around Europe.  Laura, Kate, Nick, Wade, and myself decided to head to Germany & Northern Italy.  We first started out by going to Munich.  As our plane landed, the air was bitter cold & for a second, it felt as if we had landed in Minnesota.  We all felt a wave of homesickness, but it quickly went away as we found our way to our hostel & enjoyed our first dinner together.  The food in Germany: sooo delicious.  A lot of Germany reminded me of home, including the food.  At our first restaurant, I had delicious fried chicken with potato fries.  I was lovin' that.
Over our first weekend, we spent a day in Salzburg and the other morning at the Dachau concentration camp.  Salzburg was absolutely beautiful.  It's only about 2 hours outside of Germany & our train ride was just beautiful.  The entire ride was spent speeding through the country side with the alps present in every view.  Salzburg itself is smaller than I would have anticipated, but yes, it's gorgeous.  We toured the Cathedral & that was beautiful.  We also looked at Mozart's home & museum, saw Sound of Music sites, and ended with the Hohensalzburg Castle.  Nestled on top of a very large hill, this fortress was made available for touring & dining.  There is quite a lot to see, but my favorite part was just the view itself.  The fortress looks over the entire city and it's just really beautiful.  That night, we struggled finding a reasonably priced place to eat, so Laura, Kate & I ate delicious waffles :)  Mine was covered in berries, ice cream & whipped cream.  Oh gosh, sooo delicious.  Perfect end to an awesome day.
On Sunday, we made the journey to Dachau concentration camp.  We went on a guided tour & it was such a learning experience.  Though horrible things happened at this place,  it was still amazing and I feel very fortunate to have been able to go.  It is still quite haunting, for much of it remains standing.  Dachau wasn't known for mass executions, but rather housed more political prisoners than Jews.  40,000 were killed there but it's mainly remembered for being a model to all other concentration camps.  Others structured themselves around it and all commanders were trained and started at Dachau.  It started out as a labor camp & the people weren't treated nearly as horrible as they were nearing the end of the war.  At the end, people were starved, forced to do horrible tasks, used for medical experiments, and tricked into suicide.  It was a very haunting experience.  I walked through rows of cells still standing and at many points, moved to tears.  I was most affected by the crematory.  Here, we saw gas chambers and a cemetery.  The tombs simply read, "Thousands unknown are buried here".  This was especially hard for me; it made everything that much more real I guess.  I'm very glad we were able to go to this place & our tour guide was exceptional.  The experience is one that all should witness for themselves.  It'll truly altar how you think.

Salzburg.

Cathedral

When we returned from Dachau, we spent the afternoon exploring Munich itself and had dinner at the famous Hofbrauhaus.  Munich is beautiful.  Definitely one of my favorite cities we've visited thus far.  We visited many historical sites during the afternoon and enjoyed a walk along the river that runs through the city.  The Hofbrauhaus was also quite the German experience.  Kate, Laura & I shared a giant Radlar beer, which has lemonade in it.  It was good, but overall, not my favorite.  The food was interesting as well.  Everyone enjoyed it, but again, not my favorite.  The experience though, was awesome.  The restaurant is huge and a place that is always packed.  It's a really cool place and we spent over two hours there.  It was a blast!

The rest of our week was spent in Northern Italy, starting in Venice.  Venice is beaaaautiful; a photographer's dream, you could say.  Unfortunately it rained the entire time we were there, but I still loved it & took pictures non-stop.  After arriving, we had dinner and I had my first authentic Italian pizza.  Oh my gosh.  Deliciousness.  Can I live on this food forever please?  Another group member, Brigitta met us there and with only one full day, we took complete advantage and explored the entire time.  We started by going to St. Mark's Cathedral, which was beautiful.  Unfortunately, all the rain is flooding parts of it.  Because Venice is surrounded by water, this is something they have to deal with quite often.  It was sad to see what it does to the city.  Besides the Cathedral, half of our group went to a museum, but Kate, Laura & I decided to just explore the city.  I just love Venice.  Its beauty is so unique and everywhere you look, there is beauty.  We had a blast just getting lost in all of its narrow alleys and secluded streets.

In the late afternoon, our group went to the island of Murano.  Murano is a 20 minute boat ride away and it's known for its glass blowing.  The streets are lined with shops filled with glass products that are just so beautiful and unique.  Laura and I managed to find some beautiful watches for only 15 euro!  We had a blast just walking through all the shops and seeing the amazing things one can make out of glass.  That night, we made ourselves some pasta in our apartment and had awesome dinner conversation that I'll never forget.  I am quite blessed by the incredible people in this program.

Just gorgeous.

On Wednesday morning, we originally had planned to go to Cinque Terre, but the previous day it flooded horribly.  All of its trails are destroyed due to mud slides and the flooding.  The towns were horribly affected and over 9 lives were lost.  We had to make up new plans, get new train tickets, and find a place to stay all in one hour.  We managed to do so in the city of Florence.  That afternoon, we arrived there and fell in love immediately.  Florence is your small town big town and it's gorgeous.  Because we are going there later in the program, we decided to go to Siena, a Tuscan region, in order to save all the Florence tourism for when we're there later.  Although, we had dinner our first night at an incredible restaurant.  For 12 euro, we were able to have pasta, a main dish of meat and a side, then dessert.  I was extremely full, but um.. have I mentioned how much I love the food?
Siena was gorgeous.  It also is quite small, but the landscape is what I enjoyed the most.  We were so excited to see fall colors!  We toured the Siena Duomo, which is their cathedral.  It was huge, but for my taste, a bit too elaborate on the inside.  I enjoy churches with more simplicity.  Afterwards, we went to the Museo Opera Metropolitana.  This houses some amazing Italian art and from within, we walked up onto the Panorama, which overlooks the city.  The view was really great!  After that, a few of us left and just explored the city.  We managed to stumble across two colleges and find beautiful landscapes.  It was a well spent day, I'd say.

Siena!

That night, us girls had pizzas for dinner and then went out for gelato.  Mmk, the gelato here?  Out of this woooorld.  I am obsessed & it's okay because when I'm ever going to have this deliciousness again? Not for a long time!  I'm going to take full advantage.  I've gone quite a few times thus far, and there are many more to come, my friends.

Mid-break was awesome and our group had a really great time together.  On Friday, we explored Florence a bit, but then boarded our train to Rome.  Now, this is my home & I am in love.  Stay tuned for my adventures in Roma :)

Godbless!