My Rotary Youth Exchange

Oh my goodness...

2009-06-14T09:45:00.000-07:00

Time is flying. Ansi, it's like turbo-charged. These past couple weeks have just been a blur. Mom arrives in 6 days! Just a while ago it was 6 months.

I've been spending most of my time saying goodbye to everyone, because while I will still be in Italy for about 4 more weeks, the last couple weeks will be a pure chaos (even if it's a pleasant chaos!)

Today I went to my last Rotary meeting. I said goodbye to Murnik. All I could say was "grazie grazie grazie" through the tears, and just nod.

che emozione ragazzi!
Grace

Roma

2009-05-19T23:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Everyone,

It’s been ages, I know. Sorry! I just went off to Rome and didn’t mention it for weeks. The most important thing about Rome that you need to know is that YOU MUST GO. I was talking with my Dad and trying to describe it... Rome is Milan with her hair let down. It’s messy in ways that Milan would never dare to be. The main differences I saw between Florence and Rome, is that Florence was kind of chill and modest. Rome is not modest in any way. It knows its superior and it doesn’t care what you think. When we went May was just beginning- but the sun shone like it hadn’t shone my entire exchange, with any discomfort being swept away by the breeze. And the accent!!! How wonderfully bouncy!

While we were in Rome we saw tons of things in very little time.
I’ll try to make a list:
The Pantheon
The Spanish Steps
The Vatican City
(The Sistine Chapel, The rooms of Raffaelo, More modern art like Salvador Dali’)
The Colosseum
Saint Peter’s Basilica.
(La pieta’ and we went up to the cupola!)
A cool downtown zone (for the evening)
Another Michelango sculpture that I’ve forgotten the name of.
Roman ruins.
Double decker bus tour
The Trevi Fountain

I think that’s it…?
Keep in mind we did this all in two days (our arrival and departure days we did nothing)
I can only describe it as the most beautiful frenzy I’ve ever experienced. After exploring the city all day, we would all trek back out to our hotel in the outskirts and continue the festivities. The friendliness of the Romans was evident and I felt invigorated by the brightness of it all. Milan is glorious in its own way- but it’s just not bright. It’s gray.

We boarded the train months too soon.

Since then I’ve tried to knuckle down and do some school work, but it is increasingly more difficult as May breaks through even Milan’s cloud cover. All I want to do is be outside and roam around this city with the last bit of my time!! Jody got me a pedometer, and it just eggs me on. Today for instance, I walked 16.8 km. How many miles is that?

My happiness is overwhelming- and just to know that school will end in 3 weeks and a week later my mom will arrive- CHE MERAVIGLIA! J

Seeing you all so incredibly soon,
Grace

Update

2009-04-27T04:55:00.000-07:00

OK,

So I do have some more Menaggio photos on the way, but they might take a while. And Cremona photos too! We all (Rotary kids) took a day trip to Cremona like a week or two ago. The Stradivarius comes from Cremona, and it's still a violin-making hot spot. We got to see a violin workshop and a violin- maker spoke to us about his job and answered our questions. Then we went to the museum where we saw some of the most ancient, beautiful, and valuable violins in the entire world. Really amazing. Then we tried to go up the tower (I'd already done it) but it was closing. Poor Murnik tried so hard, saying stuff like "Oh c'mon. They're young! They'll be up and down in a blink of an eye." But it didn't work. So we had a bit of free time and I went to check out this fabulous tea shop with Halcy and Danielle, while walking halfway across the city (this isn't saying much, really). We met back up with everyone and went to a local place for dinner. Yum yum.

Danielle spent the night at my place because her host family was out of town, so we got up early and made my host family pancakes. Not sure how much they liked them. The term "brunch" just didn't sit well with my host dad. He was all disoriented. Haha. Well, we tried. Danielle and I, at least, ate our banana pancakes with gusto. Actually now that I'm really thinking about it, banana pancakes are so UN-Italian that the confused look on Claudio's face is completely understandable. Besides, Italians aren't used to condensing two meals into one. Expanding two meals into three, MAYBE.

This past week in school I got an 8 in Philosophy! So that made me pretty happy. And an 8 in English, and I know I have a slightly gigantic advantage there, but she grades me hard people! Anyways, the grade really doesn't matter. The important part was how she went on about how proud she was that I have "really adapted to the European school system" and that I should take home the habit of "profound thinking" back to the states. What a cutie, eh? We were studying Shakespeare and I really can't help but get excited about that.

This past Saturday was a holiday here. It the celebration of the day that marked the beginning of the end of WWII. Guess what day that is? When the Americans arrived in Milan! I felt especially patriotic. But anyways, it pretty much meant that I was treated to an American weekend (No school on Saturday!). It was quite strange, I mus tell you, to be going out on Friday night. I had to rely on muscle memory, if you will. It was a lot of fun. I went out with Isa and my host brother and a whole bunch of their mutual friends to a kareoke bar (yes I did this) and then crashed at Isa's place real close by. We're talking about 12 people sleeping in one room. Gosh, it took me back to the days when my older brothers would have friends over and I'd tiptoe through the family room the next morning over endless teenage boys on the floor, sofa, armchair...good times. But anyways, I lucked out because I got to sleep on the bed with 3 other girls. The next day I went through the Duomo area and saw the end of some anti-fascism demonstration that was going on. Lots of dreds. I took a picture of people milling about after. Maybe I'll post it, just so you can see. I met up with a couple of exchangers and Italian host siblings for a quick aperativo near the Peace Arc. Sunday was rainy and I did very close to nothing all day.

I'm very excited for Rome, which I will leave for on Thursday!!!

Gosh, in general, I'm great! The weather, for the most part, has been beautiful which means I'm insanely chipper all the time. Nearly every time I come home I exclaim "Ma che bel tempo!!!" (What beautiful weather!).

Spring has arrived.
and Grace is diggin' it.

(Every time I used third person I think of the play Julius Caesar and how he always referred to himself in 3rd person, and then I always delete it. But this time, I'm staying strong. Yeah, I'm weird.)

Love to all,
Grace
xxoo

Part Three Menaggio

2009-04-17T13:18:00.001-07:00

Part Two Menaggio

2009-04-17T12:48:00.001-07:00

Part One Menaggio

2009-04-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

more Venice (thanks Halcy)

2009-04-17T12:38:00.001-07:00

Bergamo. Family Change. Easter.

2009-04-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

HI Guys,

I’m in a really good mood, which is always a great time to write a blog, updating you all on what I’ve been up to.

Where did I leave off? I don’t think I told you about my day trip with Rotary to Bergamo. It’s a city not very far from Milan. The coolest thing about it is definitely it’s two different levels. See, the older and higher level of the city sits more up on the mountains, with a huge wall around the whole thing to keep the bad guys out (much like we’ve seen in places like Pisa, etc). It’s filled with tons of history and fun facts that I’ve mostly forgotten at this point but that I remember I really found interesting! Sorry! I do remember that they first had their baptistery in their church but deconstructed it piece by piece and put it together perfectly across from the church instead. The lower level of the city is a bit newer and reminds me kind of Milan. But also a bit like America. I think? I mean, it’s more American-like (AKA young) than most of the places here. I really loved walking along the path that follows the mural around the higher level. Beautiful vista!

I’ve changed host families and now live so close to my school it fills my heart with gladness. Gladness, guys. There is no other substitute word. It’s like 7 bus stops in the morning (about 15 minutes) and after school, if I’m not in a rush I can walk home adoring the amount of green I never imagined Milan containing. That’s what I did today and I gotta tell you- walking home in the sunshine is medicinal. It’s just good for your soul. Do you get how full my heart is of gladness about my proximity to my school? I’m really trying to drill it in here.

And my family is really sweet. There are four of them- Claudio, Marina, Giovanni (17), and Sylvia (13). I get along well with all of them. They asked me what I liked to eat and if they could get me things at the grocery store! I have my own room. When I go out with friends they are more than happy to come pick me up if it’s at a late hour. I’ve done a few things with Giovanni and his friends and they are super nice. Marina worries a bit too much about thing, and sometimes I just make her a cup a tea so she’ll chill out a little. Sweet a sugar, though. And Claudio is a cool dude, I can just tell. He does most of the cooking, actually. And he’s bearded! And Sylvia is a cutie pie. She’s already started drinking more tea and eating more fruit since I’ve come along!

Today was perfect. I came home and made myself a beautiful lunch (Sometimes I go to the Grandma’s, but she pretty much wants to force-feed me everything in her kitchen, so I don’t think I’ll be going there everyday). Then I went for a run, came home and bathed. I helped Sylvia with her English homework and we went for a long walk. It started to rain on our way home and we ended up running the last bit home (Marina called twice during that short span of time worried sick. God bless her.) Taking the elevator up, we were both out of breathe and the slightest bit wet- not to mention laughing our heads off. It started really pouring shortly after and the hail is still hitting the skyroof windows. The rumble of thunder- how beautiful!

And the icing on the cake- Asparagus for dinner tonight!!!

I also went to Menaggio with Giorgio’s family for Easter. I really enjoyed being around the tranquility of the lake, and just zoning out for a bit. Hiked a bit, took a boat and plane ride on the lake, took a lot of photos, read, listened to music, met relatives and friends, ate everything Valeria cooked (what a glorious cook!), and got to make some phone calls home. Didn’t open a school book all break.

Overall, I’m doing better than ever. Been going out more and more with friends and soaking up these last couple months. Becoming more active (with this weather, time spent inside is time wasted!) and buckling down just enough in school. ;) Spring fever hits everywhere, you know.

Tomorrow I’m going to Cremona for the day with Rotary and I’m going to get to see violins made!!!

Love to all,
Grace

Birthday + Life in General

2009-04-03T01:38:00.000-07:00

So March 31 was my birthday! I have 17 years!

My Italian birthday completely surpassed all expectations. What expectations? I was just going to go for a picnic, really. You know, enjoy the weather (my absolute favortie pasttime)- but my class took it all out of my hands. On the Saturday night before my birthday (when I just thought I'd be going to a pizzeria with some friends) they threw me a surprise party! It was honestly one of the most touching moments of my life. I showed up at Bea's family's pizzeria and it was all dark and Bea was like "You're the first to arrive. The others are late." And me, being the oblivious person I am, had a little moment of sadness. I mean, I was late and the others still hadn't gotten there. I don't appreciate being ditched. But then Bea asked if I wanted to go in the side room to wait and as soon as I stepped in the lights turned on and my whole class jumped out at me admist tons of colored balloons and shouted "SORPRESA!!!". I was shocked to say the least. It was just so thoughtful! Here were these girls-that I had just met half a year ago, really began to communicate with a few months ago- throwing me a party for my birthday! And they all chipped in to get me a purse (there are a few girls in my class with this same brand of purse from paris or something and they got me one!) and afterwards we went out for a drink and took tons of photos. I went home and spent the night at my friend Kylee's. It was just so perfect, all of it. Then on the day of my birthday I went out for a picnic at Parco Sempione, which is the park next to the castle. That time I went with some different girls I knew from outside of my class, Giulia and Elisa. They're just adorable, and it was really relaxing. Then last night I went to the Politi's and had a birthday dinner with them along with Isa and Poalo and Halcy! It was delicious and a perfect ending to my birthday festivities. I think about this past week and I gotta tell ya- I have that fuzzy warm Hallmark feeling of being absolutely cared for.

Along with old relationships, I'm getting to know a lot of new people. I'm really excited for my last months! The weather is beautiful, I'm doing well in school, I'm going out with friends all of the time. And of course I can look forward to my mommy coming!

I'm spending Easter with Giorgio's family in Como!!
I change families tomorrow, wish me luck!

Happy Easter Everyone! Miss you tons.
Grace

Venice Photos

2009-03-27T02:31:00.000-07:00

Pisa and Florence

2009-03-27T02:30:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I went with Rotary to see Pisa and Florence.

Saturday morning we loaded onto a bus (22 exchange students total) and headed towards Pisa. We passed through the greener Alps that continue down into the heart of Italy. We stopped at a park to eat our packed lunches. John, whose family visited recently, had a box of Chez Its (how do you spell that?) from America and it was pretty funny to see everyone go crazy over that. We got back on the bus and it wasn’t 10 minutes before someone shouted “I can see the tower!” We had arrived. Excitedly we all unloaded off the bus and walked together into the city. Following Murnik we were led right up to the tower, the Duomo, and the Baptistero (how do you spell that?). Well all began to take the very fun touristy photos posing with the tower in various positions. Some got more creative than others, haha. Murnik told us a lot of information, like how Pisa is closed off with a great wall around it because of pirates back in the day and how the leaning tower was built on earth that was too soft- because the ground here has a lot of water around it to begin with, being close to the sea and with rivers around.

Then we had about 45 minutes of free time before we all went up the tower together. I had very little cash to go shopping so I went off with Jody in search for a Bancomat. In the process I caught sight of men selling rides on these bicycle cart contraptions. You know, kind of like the ones you see families riding on at the VA Beach boardwalk? Well, I HAD to do that. I grabbed Jody’s arm and we inquired into the cost. 5 euro for 30 minutes. I was short 20 cents. Jody spotted me. Officially broke and very very excited we climbed into our new vehicle. Being the one at the steering wheel, I guided us through the streets of Pisa. If it was Milan, I would have died. Probably why they don’t sell these carts there. Fortunately Pisa is just a little place and nobody seems like they are in too big of a hurry. In half an hour we were able to see the majority of Pisa, laughing and singing “That’s Amore” the whole time. With about 5 or 10 minutes left we encountered another Italian family on their own bicycle cart. “Facciamo un gioco?!” they said. “Wanna play a game?!” Oh mama mia, soon we were racing! Laughing uncontrollably, I pedaled hard, glad that Jody was now driving. I’d swish my head around and see the other family gaining on us, great big Italian smiles on their faces! We both ended up laughing and a bit out of breath right where we had started. As we got off the bike and turned it back in our competitors continued on calling back “Abbiamo vinto!” “E vero!” I replied laughing,” Una bella vittoria!” ( “We won!” “Very true! A beautiful victory!”)

Going up the tower of Pisa was much like being in a funhouse. I used the walls for support and reassured myself that I was not falling- only leaning. There are a few different levels but the view from the very top was worth the climb. Talk about a Kodak moment. It did feel a bit bizarre though. There is kind of a fence screen thing that wraps around on all sides, naturally so you don’t fall off, which isn’t like easy to do. But one girl tripped and fell against it. That momentary fear flooded her face. I don’t even want to imagine.

Not too long after that, we were back on the bus on our way to Florence. We entered the city in the late evening. We arrived at our hotel and had an hour to situate ourselves before we went out for dinner. I shared a room with Halcy and we spent the time having a cup of tea and walking along the multiple floors. As we headed by foot (on foot or by foot?) to go have dinner I knew I was going to love this city. At night the river looked like shiny black ink and everything was lighted up just enough- nothing was flashy. The place where we went to eat was quite popular. We had a whole section of the place for us. I tried to stay there and away from the packed bar. We ended the meal with a delicious strawberry cheesecake and champagne in honor of Katharine’s 18 birthday the next day. We returned to the hotel and after a real hot powerful shower (kind of like those ones we had before we change the showerhead- remember those mom? I know it uses way too much water way too quickly- but it feels so gooooood J) I fell into bed.

The next day we had a brilliant tour guide accompany us for the whole morning. I liked hearing the Florentine accent! First we went to this spot where you can overlook all of Firenze. He pointed out the major landmarks like Ponte Vecchio and their amazing Duomo. He mentioned that most of the other bridges are German and gave us a “What canya do?” shrug. We also saw one of the copies of Michelangelo’s David there. He mentioned that proportionally David isn’t perfect. His head, his feet, and his hands are all enlarged to show his power (or something like that). (He also advised that if we want to see the real David to come in winter or else book it. But John said he came like a week before and they waited in line for half an hour and saw it. Hey, could be worse.) We walked in towards the Duomo which is seriously incredible. It’s the 4th biggest Duomo in the world. Lemme try to remember what he said; the first biggest is in the Vatican, the second and third are in London and Milan (can’t remember which is which), then there’s the one in Florence. The guide told us that they usually don’t point out that it’s the fourth biggest, they just say the biggest in their region and stick to that. Haha. In fact, another city was building a church at the same time Florence was constructing theirs. The Florentines actually diverted from their original plans when they realized that the other church was going to be bigger. Involved in a sort of church-building contest they expanded on what they had already built and won. It does result in an interesting view from one side, though. You can see the same sort of pattern for most of one side and then there is a change- the windows are different, etc. I find this pretty funny. It’s also made out of three different colors of marble- red, white, and green like their flag. They copied some sort of style off the French, didn’t catch what exactly. They also didn’t know how to construct the dome and couldn’t figure it out until Brunelleschi came along and shared a bit of his architectural genius. I studied Brunelleschi in art history class! We saw Dante’s church and the reconstruction of Dante’s house (which got blown up at some point). The tomb of Beatrice was in Dante’s church. He supposedly met Beatrice there. Dang man, after studying Dante and writing a big long paper on him (full of grammatical errors) it felt so crazy to be standing where he might had stood years ago, falling in love with his heroine. Mama mia. Then we continued on to the piazza next to the Uffizi art museum (which is probably the most amazing art museum in the world) and continued onto the Ponte Vecchio. Just so you know the lock thing that people in love do,{when they right their names on a lock and attach it to something like a gate, etc. next to a famous river, then throw the key into the river} don’t do this in Florence. Every couple weeks people come along with pliers and get them all off. This, according to our guide, is why there are so many divorces. Stick to Cremona.

After our lovely tour we went to a pizzeria where I had la pizza Fiorentina. I thought it was only fitting. Had capers for the first time. Ended it with a yummy Tiramisu (can you tell this was not a diet weekend?) and then we had about 2.5 hours of free time. It was a bit overwhelming for me to decide what to do. First I bought postcards, then I went inside the Duomo and lit a candle. After that all I really wanted to do was walk around. The Uffizi was SO tempting but I knew that if I went there it’d drive me crazy to be rushed. So instead I enjoyed the sunshine crossing a bridge there, taking a left there, a right there. I was accompanied by Henry and Clare and we had a great time just taking photos and going at a relaxed pace. I couldn’t have asked for more. I had officially fallen head over heels with Firenze and to explore it under a budding spring sun- oh how divine. I’m surprised I consented to get back on the bus and leave. Too soon I was back in Milan, but after this taste I’m more excited than ever to return to Florence with my mom!

I should probably mention that I was camera-less this entire trip. Through an un-interesting turn of events my camera was unavailable to me. So while I did photograph using other people’s cameras it’ll be a while until I can post photos. The good news is that I’m finally putting Venice photos up!

Enjoy.
Grace

Italian Toddlers

2009-03-04T00:36:00.001-08:00

are so cute I can't stand it. Mira and Maya are no exception. I do have a little story, though. They are always well-behaved. They miraculously don't fight over toys or scream and cry. They giggle to no end and play nicely. However yesterday was different. I have now learned that when Grandma comes (Nonna) Mira goes a little crazy. She started throwing her crayons and laughing and laughing. She threw her juice box. She stopped listening. She threw the glass jar of markers and thank goodness I caught it. I broke my English rule for a moment to explain to her in Italian that it was glass and it will break into pieces! She let up for a while, and I relaxed a bit. Then in 3 seconds the jar had broken all over the floor. I tried not to laugh at the surprise and fear on her face. She looked completely shocked, processing a completely new thing she had learned abut the world. Nonna reprimanded her as we cleaned it up. "This is what happens when you misbehave!" As the youngest child, I didn't really get to witness anyone else go through these first events. I like the change of view.

Tough Choices

2009-03-04T00:35:00.000-08:00

Another exchanger went home on Sunday- the second one of all the exchangers I've met. It was a bit of a surprise for me. The first was one of the boys I had met in the Amsterdam airport and had flown over with, but he left within the first couple months. People go home for a variety of reasons, and while it's unfortunate, in my opinion it's still an invaluable learning experience. Everyone that I've met WANTED this experience. It wasn't a question of just wanting to waste a year by taking a ride on Rotary's generosity. I think all the interviews and the paperwork weeds that out. ;) All of us arrived trying to open our own minds to something very different, knowing that all of our expectations would be probably be wrong. I truly believe that each and every one of us have tried to adjust and adapt to the best of our ability. But whether one faces a loss of a family member back home, didn't get a country they chose, can't seem to get the language down, integrate, find a host family they become close to, conquer homesickness, or feel that they are truly taking advantage of this opportunity- sometimes there arises a combination of difficulties that force a student to make the tough choice and go home. I don't think either one of the students I know wasted a year. After all, this year isn't only about learning a new language and a new culture. Sometimes the biggest challenge is learning more about yourself. I'm going to miss Margot. She was one of my favorite people here- always smiling and laughing, great to joke around with, and I never once heard her complain. Having lived half a year in a foreign country is no small thing. And that brings up another surprising truth; You can be an absolutely fabtastic individual- but that doesn't necessarily mean that this is for you. And while you should certainly not rush this decision, and should consider it fully beforehand, sometimes the only way to know is to get over here and try it for yourself.

A dopo,
Grace

Venezia

2009-03-04T00:34:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I find it hard to grasp the fact that Ashland, VA and Milan, Italy in fact share the same planet. There are moments when it feels like they should occupy two different worlds completely. When I remember that all it takes to get home is a plane ride I feel a bit surprised. It’s that close? However, there are those instants when both worlds intertwine- when I feel as connected to Virginia as I do to Italy. These moments are so strangely exhilarating.

I experienced one of these moments riding back in the bus from Carnevale in Venice this past Sunday. Being in Venice for Carnevale was monumental for me. Venice was the first aspect of Italy that really reeled me in and caught my attention. From there I discovered my own desire to see it all. We’re talking 3rd grade, people. So stepping off the train and walking out of the station to see canals and costumes galore was truly indescribable. I really do wonder if one could be happier. We took a boat to see a demonstration at the Venetian glass factory and had lunch sitting together along the canal. I went with Rotary and a few different districts of kids from places like Genova, Sardegna, and the Venezia region itself. We had a bit of free time to explore before we had to go home. I broke off with Katharine, and we walked around the city taking deserted back streets, looking at masks and taking photos. Way too soon we had to return to the group. Now believe it or not, this was my favorite part of the day. Katharine and I, being already late, had to make it to the other side of the city to Piazza San Marco through the most jam-packed streets in the city. Hand in hand and masked we forced our way over bridges, through crowds, laughing and running across piazzas as evening descended upon Venice. For Murnik’s sake, I feel a little guilty for being late. But not that guilty. After reuniting with the group, boarding a boat, then a train, we finally were back on our bus driving home to Milan. It was just a taste of Venice, really- but I have absolutely no complaints. I nestled into my window seat with my ipod, some people sleeping around me- tuning out the rest. I put on Shuffle and suddenly James Taylor filled my ears, singing Sweet Baby James. I thought my heart would burst. I was on a bus in Italy but I was also undoubtedly back home with my family in the same exact moment. Maybe it is that close.

Enjoy the photos. I'll post some soon.
Grace

Excuse me

2009-03-04T00:33:00.001-08:00

for the delay. I did write blogs just haven't transferred them over yet. I'll do that now.

My English Professor

2009-02-13T01:31:00.000-08:00

OK, so I don't know how I haven't mentioned this before but I absolutely love my English teacher. By now, I've learned a tad bit about mastering a language and all of the effort it requires. I get by, and it makes me feel rather like a genius. However, the level of my English teacher's fluency stuns me. She's perfect. Her accent. Her vast vocabulary (which is decidedly more English than American). Her JOKES! It's an incredible achievement, what she has done. I sit down in class and just prepare myself to be impressed. Can I please emphasize that NOT ALL TEACHERS ARE LIKE THIS. We study the history of Great Britian, elements of English literature, and the sorts of things that you don't normally get in an American classroom (which makes it quite interesting for me). So, all in all, my class is very fortunate.

But what I wanted to bring up was some funny stuff she said today, just for your enjoyment.
In the first half of class her sweater got caught on her jacket zipper or something so she paused in her lecture to unhook it and said to the class "I'm sorry but I was destroying my pullover and I preferred to devote it some attention". Doesn't that phrase just delight you? Also, she has a thing about Richard Gere. In fact, the first class she showed me her picture of him and said "This is my boyfriend." Today we were discussing the sonnet and how often the poet writes of unattainable love. She said the element of a paradox is often present, because while the poet longs for love he doesn't really ever want to get it. He just wants to wallow and be miserable and idealize the woman as being perfect. But if he actually got what he wanted, he'd realize it isn't as fantastic as he imagined. Then she asked the class "Have you noticed the effects of distance to the strength of love? Sometimes when you miss someone or are away from someone that your feelings toward them are fortified. You know, that's how it is with me and Richard. (*laughs all around*) Because you know, we don't see each other very often. Our visits are quite rare. So this feeling is like how he feels for me."

She's just too funny.

Gotta go!
Grace

Poasco

2009-02-11T04:22:00.000-08:00

Did I mention I went to Lecco?

2009-02-11T04:05:00.000-08:00

The Milanese

2009-01-30T07:36:00.001-08:00

have many things to be proud of. Milan is a city of elegant importance. It is has a key location near many other European countries. The Milan Duomo is one of the most captivatingly beautiful churches in the world. They have art, theatre, and nightlife. They have history and culture. There's the Castlello Sforzesco, the canals, the soccer teams, the amazing transportation, the fashion, the food, not to mention the best looking business men walking down their streets I fear I will ever see. But one thing you will probably never hear them boast about is the weather. It's a new experience for me. The rainy season took me completely off guard and I often came home squelching and soaked. Then followed weeks of clouds, more rain, snow, ice and persisting cold. When I mention it, in perhaps discussing the differences between my home state and Milan, the looks I recieve are apologetic. Do I just imagine the averted gazes and lowered voices when people tell me, "Go to Rome" or "Visit Sicily"? It's actually not THAT bad. I don't know what I expected- we are a stone's throw from the Alps themselves! The truth is I am a complete wimp and starting January I begin (literally and routinely) dreaming of the beach and summertime. But the Italians here need not be ashamed of perhaps one of the very few things they cannot boast about- today was an absolutely beautiful day. In fact this week this sun has made an appearance more than once, and the results for me are that around the time I exit school I get a nice sunlit walk in a bustling european city. It raises my spirits undoubtedly. It makes me wonder how I could ever NOT have high spirits. The sun comes out and says "Grace! Look Around! Your life is perfect!". I buy it every time. Why wouldn't I? It's really true!

Today "sono di buon umore", I'm in a good mood. I went to school and arrived on time (always a blessing). I had a couple hours of classes but also time to research and print off things to help me understand some of my current topics a bit better. After school (while walking in the sun) I made my way to Giorgio's house for lunch. I had been pretty worried about Giorgio. He had been sick for quite a few weeks and I hadn't seen him since Christmas Eve (and he had been sick BEFORE Christmas Eve too!). I was completely relieved to see him well again and to have lunch with him and his wife Valeria. Giorgio is always an amusing character and he never fails to disappoint me. He is so Italian! For instance, today I asked Giorgio how his kids were (all of them college age and beyond) and this is a little translation of his reply: "Oh, horrible! They have abbandoned me! I never see them! They are never around! I want my children in my house with me always but they tell me 'Oh Papa, we don't love you anymore!' " Giorgio has told me on more than one occasion that he doesn't want his children to ever leave him, and that in America people leave home too early. "Why wouldn't I want them to stay with me forever?" Pretty cute, eh? While at Giorgio's house I got to use his skype account to call America for free, and while it was too early in VA to call most people, I knew I could probably reach my dad. I had a 45 minute conversation with him! It was so great, and when I left Giorgio's the sun felt even warmer.

Enough for now,
Grace

oh p.s.
something I thought was funny the other day: we were sitting at the dinner table but Stefano kept running back and forth to watch his cartoons until Sergio finally said "Stefano! Come in here and sit down like all other christian people!"

Guess What?

2009-01-28T00:48:00.000-08:00

We have a new President!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
:)
I can't tell you how awesome it was to see, not only Barack Obama become president, but to see it happen through the Italian perspective. They follow our politics more closely than many Americans, and their approval of this new presidency is evident. Almost all of my classmates and professors saw the inauguration. I came into my classroom beaming the next day. Verdiana came up to me and said "Ho pianto!" (I cried!) and I said "Anch'io!" (I did too!).

As for the everyday stuff, I think I'm slipping into a more routine schedule. Mondays I do something fun (I went to Lecco these past two Mondays! I have photos that will eventually get posted. Lost my cord...) since I have a a ridiculously little amount of school. On Tuesdays and Thursdays I run after school and speak English to cutie pie italian toddlers. Wednesday is a good day for lunch with friends or walking around, but like today- I'm just going to study. But then from Friday-Sunday apart from school, it's pretty much all up to me. That's another thing that is different about my host families. My first host family always had something for me to do, usually with their family or friends or their church. But now that I have more time I can call up friends from school to do something and get to know people better.

It's nearly February, which means we are coming up on my 5 month marker soon.
Crazy.

xxoo
Grace

NEW FAMILY

2009-01-14T02:10:00.000-08:00

OK, Sorry if I kept you waiting (Mother) but it's been tricky getting to the computer. However, I'm here now and I'll give you a brief summary of my family/house/location change.

I now live with Sergio, Manuela, Elena (12 yrs.) , and Stefano (5 yrs.) in their condo in Poasco, which is actually outside of the city limits of Milan. I'm really happy about my switch for several reasons. First of all, it shall achieve the exact goal of Rotary and the point of changing families- which is to have a better idea of the average Italian family by living with different types of people. My new family, is different than my last and I'm excited to experience Italy through their style of doing things. Also, the house is kind of out in the booneys- at least for the Milanese, and while some exchangers, when I tell them where I live, get these looks that plainly say "Not Convenient!" for me, it is so worth the extra time and tricky transportation. There is space! There are trees! I can even run in this new little village of mine, because what is there we can't even call traffic. As for the house itself, it is obvious that a 5 year old lives there. It's doesn't have the elegance of my previous home- but I'm not afraid if I put something away in the wrong spot, or to disrupt the order. I felt immediately comfortable in their chaotic jumble- I even wash dishes again! I must emphasize, I am genuinely pleased about all of this. My family is helpful, but a little more hands-off. At this point I'm well adjusted and I don't need everyone to do everything for me or with me. I think my new family recognizes my ability to handle my own situation with maturity. Manuela is just the sweetest chatterbox you'll ever meet- which I think will help my Italian progress further since she is kind of hard to understand. Sergio feels like more like an American father, if only because he is big and tall. I think we're going to be tight, I helped him talk to his American cousin on Skype last night. It felt not only cool to be using my translating skills, but to be able to help the people who are so kind to me! Elena is a bit quiet, but I came home the other day and asked her if she wanted tea and a snack and once you sit her down with some passionfruit brewing she'll go on about her day. Stefano is going to be a heart-breaker. He greets me the same way every time I see him- he asks for kisses and says "sei bellisima!" (you are so beautiful!). This kid is 5. It's only just begun. Oh and they are all blonde, except Sergio, so I don't stick out like a sore thumb. I have begun to use the yellow metro line, which is the nicest, but used to be pretty useless for me. It is also easy to stop by and keep in touch with the Politi's. I have a feeling they will always be on the scene. So yeah, it's all good! And yesterday I got my first ever box from home!!! Mama Santa, I was so happy! Thank you everyone who contributed to it, it meant a lot.

xxoo,
Grace

All Good Things Must Come To An End.

2009-01-06T09:41:00.001-08:00

I actually hate that saying. I also hate the phrase "too much fun". There are so many fun, amazing things that are possible to enjoy continually! Please don't rain on the fun-lover parade! Whoever invented this phrase probably also invented Mondays and the end of winter vacation.

It is indeed the last evening of vacation. To be honest, I don't feel THAT gloomy about it. As much as I would like it to just stretch on (about another 6 months would be nice) I'm just grateful that I got to do so many things in the past couple weeks. The last couple days I visited Padova, Udine, and Selvino. It was tough cramming it all in, but I think my whole host family is glad we did it. My favorite thing about Padova was the church that Giotto painted that I got to see. In Udine I got to meet a lot of relatives, and one of Marina's cousins helped me broaden my exclamation vocabulary considerably (Che Barba!). In Selvino (like Bardonecchia) THERE WAS SO MUCH SNOW. So now school begins again and in about 5 days I switch host families, and while I think I'm ready for a change- it's going to be sad leaving the Politi's who I've spent 4 months with (well, nearly- tomorrow is 4 months exactly).

This is a big mile marker for me. 4 months ago things were drastically different! I have a feeling from here on out time will go even faster and I'm going to make the absolute best of it. I have 6 months left here and whoever thinks that is plenty of time better think again! As much as I am looking forward to going home, back to Virginia in the heat of the summer- I'm just not ready yet.

Love,
Grace

Selvino

2009-01-06T09:35:00.001-08:00

Udine

2009-01-06T09:30:00.001-08:00

Padova

2009-01-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

Lake/Train

2009-01-02T09:17:00.001-08:00

Make yourself comfortable

2009-01-02T08:50:00.000-08:00

because this is going to be long. I’ll try to keep it as brief, interesting, and informative as possible.

The very beginning of break:

The last day of school didn’t involve a lot of school. Almost everybody brought in things to eat and drink (including champagne) and attempted to learn until the last block when everyone gave up and spent the hour singing songs. That evening, while I rode the “It’s finally vacation” happy wave, I went to a big Christmas party with my family. It was fun because I got to hang out with these guys Paolo and Stefano who I had seen a couple times before. We discussed everything from hip hop to American and Italian idioms.

The next day I had a Rotary Christmas Lunch which was great because I got to see everyone and wish them a Merry Christmas- not to mention that we went to a beautiful church service and as always there was good food (not TOO hard to find in this country). Afterwards I went to see Anima Dell’Aqua (art exhibit) with Mary and Cecilia and we saw the Caravaggio painting “Narciso”.

I spent a day (and night) in Monza with Danielle, Katharine, Jody, and Kylee. We walked around, had some gelato even though it was cold, Katharine cut my hair in a host family's bathroom, we went to a Mexican restaurant (BEANS) and we watched The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Christmas Eve I met back up with Mary, Cecilia, and John to see another art exhibit, Magritte. That evening I went to my tutor’s house for dinner which was so great because he (as always) practically forces me to use his Skype account to call people in America for free which meant I had good long conversations with Craig, my family, and Jamison. We used about 10 different forks for dinner. OK, not ten- but it felt like it. The midnight mass at Sant’ Ambrosio (when I met up with my host family again) was a lot more intense than our little Duncan Memorial service. The place was packed and there were clouds from the 50 tons of incense.

I hadn’t felt homesick for the longest time until Christmas Day. It just feels weird when you’re not at home. It was pleasant and cozy but it’s not the same as Christmas with your family- I didn’t expect it to be. I had a video conference with my family back home which made me really happy but a wee bit nostalgic.

I spent a lot of time with my host family and their relatives. Over Christmas and the couple days after it always seemed like we were having either lunch or dinner with somebody’s cousin. It was nice to be around all the chingchinging (toasting) and happy faces. Nonna Bina, the tiny grandmother, even told me “Ti voglio bene bene bene, tesoro” which translates to “I love you so much, treasure”.

We went to Bardonecchia for a couple days with family friends and I did indeed go to the hospital. It is a rather entertaining story so you will have to skype with me to get the full deal- but the moral of the story is: Don’t let Grace ski on the Italian Alps. I’m perfectly fine now and I had a total blast so don’t you fret one bit. One of the coolest part about this weekend was how much instinctive my Italian felt. For instance, when I fell wrong on the slopes I didn't even think about it- but I said "Ho fatto male, ho fatto male!" immediately. The translation step in my head from English to Italian is speeding up, and sometimes I just skip over it, and I find myself wondering "whoa, where'd that step go?"

I left them for New Year’s Eve. Kailee, an Australian girl who will be going home in about a week, invited us all to spend New Year’s with her and her family at their “palace” on Lake Maggiore. I went up with Kylee and on the 31st and we all came back together today (the 2nd). I absolutely loved it. Even our Rotary guy Murnik (no idea how to spell that) was there! It really felt like vacation- we hung out with Kailee’s host parents (who are adorable), stayed up late, slept in long, watched Desperate Housewives and The Office, played pool, played cards, listened to music, sock-slid on the floors, and enjoyed a constant state of laughter and being together. I didn’t take a whole lot of pictures but I have a couple that I’ll put up and I’ll steal more later. ;)

I leave the day after tomorrow to go to Udine with the host fam. Glad I get a chill day.

Love,
Grace

I promise you

2008-12-30T15:30:00.000-08:00

I'm going to post a big ol' whopper about my break so far. You're going to love it. But uploading photos was really all I could get to tonight.

Until tomorrow? Hopefully?
Grace

Photos First

2008-12-30T15:16:00.001-08:00

It's Christmas Eve.

2008-12-24T17:45:00.000-08:00

I'll try to catch you up very quickly on what's been happening with me.

I've spent glorious hours with camera in hand.
School let out after a day of singing and food and (yes, really) champagne in class.
I went to a Rotary Christmas lunch.
I saw another Caravaggio painting.
I went to Monza.
I got my hair cut by my friend Katharine from Maine.
I wrapped up all my Christmas gifts, and realized I'd lost one (still looking).
Marina bought me a coat for Christmas- she's really just too sweet.
I went and saw an art exhibition by Magritte, a really trippy french guy.
I made cookies with John and Mary.
I had Christmas Eve dinner with my tutor, Giorgio, and his family.
I went to Midnight Mass.
Still trying to write all my Christmas cards in time to give them to a friend who is going to America during vacation (She'll stick 'em in the post for me).

I'm tired. Details later.
Merry Christmas Everyone!!!
I love you all!

Grace

I've never seen such a freak out

2008-12-18T10:08:00.000-08:00

over one mosquito.
hahahahahaha.
they should come to the south.

metro video

2008-12-17T13:14:00.000-08:00

I love Italy.

2008-12-17T11:04:00.000-08:00

I hope I'm getting this point across.
Is it sinking in?
Are we on the same page here?

I have discovered that I don't just love the Italy you see in the travel books. Naturally, I love the Duomo. The Christmas lights over the canals get me every time. And I could spend an eternity in La Scala. But some of my most treasured moments are just part the normal routine. I like my walk to school. I hear men unloading trucks and by the way the streetlights look you could fool me into thinking it's nighttime still. I see the same people walking about the same time everyday and as I approach the metro I almost always see the owner of a nearby cafe wipe down his tables. I smile when I hear raised voices in the street outside my window. I get such a kick out of all the conversations I can manage to have in one day.

Today, I took the bus home. My ipod had died, so I pulled out a book and it was just as we were rounding the corner of Teatro Dell'Arte (cesare picco in concerto) that I looked up and observed my surroundings. I think that street has more trees than anywhere else in Milan. It wasn't raining (shocker) but the streets were wet. In the seat across from me sat an eldery Italian woman with a shawl and her thinning hair pulled up tight. I looked around at the others, everyone seeming lost in their own thoughts. Outside the windows I could see people in fur coats, high heels, leather shoes, but also those with unshaven faces, empty cups for change, and mats of newspaper. Nobody spoke on the bus. We trundled on, closer to my stop. Cafes, Pizzerias, Tabbachi, Metro stations, and traffic. Shoe store after shoe store. I hear the ring of a requested stop. I saw people get off and tuck their umbrellas under their arms. People got on and settled themselves into seats, sometimes letting out a sigh and setting their bags on their lap. I got up, pressed the red button, and as I took the short walk back to the Politis, I felt a very clear feeling of happy. Some happy feelings are just big explosions, or warm sleepy feelings. This was a thoughtful happy.

I guess it's starting to become real to me now (finally, eh?). Not just that I'm living it Italy, but that I like it. That I can do it. That it isn't that impossible to leave everything you know for everything you don't. Because a person learns. And the truth is, it's not all new. Most of it, but the important stuff stays the same. I'm still a friendly person. I still love a challenge. My good karma still rescues me just as often. And it's true when they say that people are people wherever you go. I'm also no longer worried that I'm not going to fit everything in. At the beginning I had a little anxiety that I wouldn't get to go everywhere that I would like to. This sentiment feels as foreign to me as Milan did when I felt it. I'm sure that I'm coming back to live in Italy for another chunk of time. Sure. Synonyms: positive, secure, without a doubt, confident (sometimes accompanied with "I can feel it in my bones.") I mean, I probably won't be in Milan again. My class keeps telling me that I have to get to Rome. Do you know how many Caravaggio paintings Rome has???

{side note:
You really don't need to be able to understand every single word a person says. You can almost always decipher their emotion, their personality-whether they are sarcastic, interested, easy-going, a goody two shoes, a little creepy, a party-goer, diligent, understanding, unsocial, or if they have a heart of gold. You can makes friends, strengthen bonds, and learn so much about a person without an enormous vocabulary. **facial expressions and body language- and Italians are SO good at this** p.s. this does NOT translate into "you don't need to learn Italian" but more like "don't stress"}

The moral of the story is: The big flashy stuff is great. I will never think of the Castello as anything short of spectacular, and as a tourist don't miss these things! But if you live here for a good chunk of time, enjoy the simple things too. Get to know people. Look out the windows. Walk down the narrow side streets. Go where the locals go. BECOME A LOCAL.

I bought film today and I'm stoked stoked stoked. Now I'm just praying for sunshine.

xxoo
Grace

I don't think I've ever

2008-12-16T10:40:00.001-08:00

hated rain more.

I am a different person

2008-12-14T23:42:00.000-08:00

because of this past weekend.

Where do I begin and how do I explain it? My joy and love for the world just keeps growing!!! I'm thinking about the world from different places and viewpoints and it just keeps knocking me over and taking me back and my mind is shifting to a whole different level. I'm not sure how to describe the moment when I'm faced with something that astounds me and hits me to my core. There is a mixture of AWE in its purest form- first that this thing exists, and second that I GET TO SEE IT AND EXPERIENCE ITS POWER. My heart swells and it feels near explosion. I try my best to completely comprehend what I'm seeing- to try to understand, but sometimes there is just a wall and all I can realize it that I CAN'T appreciate this thing to the fullest. It is too far beyond all that I am familiar with. It is from the earth, but a different world.

So what am I blabbering about?? Well, here are the facts. The concrete things that happened-

Saturday:
Danielle and Katharine came into Milan and stayed at my house. First we walked around the city and had dinner at our favorite pizzeria before coming home for the night. We stayed up half the night just listening to music and talking. It was one of the best conversations I've ever had. I love these girls so much! When we get together we always seem to be able to share and express ourselves- from critical points in our lives, our opinions and beliefs, to our HOPE AND FAITH.

Sunday: We took a train from Milan to Brescia with my host family and some friends of theirs (including my 3rd host family). We saw (apart from the city itself which has some arches that are older than our American civilization) two main things. The first half of the day we spent in Santa Guilia- Museo Della Città. In the evening we went to Van Gogh exhibition. These last two sentences are heavy. They are immense. Read them! I still can't wrap my mind around it. I saw remnants of civilizations that existed more than 2000 years before- IN THE SAME CITY. ON THE SAME EARTH. I saw incredible pieces of art that were created before Christ was born. I saw mosaic tiled floors that were so beautiful, complex, and perfect that I just wanted to cry. I saw a cieling covered in precious blue stones that NO LONGER EXIST. I was face to face with Corinthian columns -with some of the first bronze scultures ever made in the history of our world- with the history of Santa Giulia who was stoned and crucified for her unfaltering belief in Jesus Christ. I touched parts of buildings that were constructed by laborors more than 2,000 years ago! Is this getting through?! Because I'm not sure I still understand! AHHH. And then, after a break- walking through the city and stepping into a cafè- we returned to see the Van Gogh exhibit. Emotion. From the most hopeless portraits to the most vibrant countryside, I was struck immediately by a particular feeling with each piece. You can see things in a textbook or even in one of those big ol' books on the B&N sales rack- but nothing hits you like the real thing. I can't even begin to explain. His hands created something I was a foot away from. His skies. His faces. The hands. The colors.

This weekend- there are not words, but I did my best to try to describe what it meant to me.

As for other parts of life, this is my last week of school before the holidays. I have two Italian lessons left with Rotary. I'm scrambling around trying to get my Christmas shopping done. The nativities here are so cool, I'll post a photo soon. Pretty much I'm feeling like one of the luckiest people alive and I can't stop counting my blessings.

Love,
Grace

i could watch this all day long.

2008-12-07T11:00:00.000-08:00

Duomo

2008-12-07T10:41:00.000-08:00

Where did I leave off?

2008-12-07T10:25:00.001-08:00

So I got sick this week. It wasn't even that bad, but my host mom got really worried. Which was nice of her. I stayed home a couple days and slept a lot as I hacked up half my lungs. I'm feeling a lot better. Yesterday I went with my host family to the countryside and it was the closest thing I have seen to VA in a long time. I walked through FIELDS. My shoes were MUDDY. I can't even tell you how good it felt. It was spiritual. Today I went out with friends but only under the condition that I wore this enormous abominable snowman coat of Marina's. I didn't try to fight it. I would have lost. I don't plan on wearing it again. But I think I'll be able to avoid it, because all Marina said when I got home was "Now you know it is a choice if it is very very cold." Well, obviously not in English. And I replied "Yes Marina, I know it exists." and we both laughed. I'm still a little stuffed up and sniffly but most of the coughing has gone away. :)

Everyday there are more Christmas lights up in Milan. I absolutely love it. It's officially Christmas time! I am ready for all of the carols and the snow and the telling everyone just how much you love and appreciate them. Speaking of which, I love and appreciate all of you who are reading from back home! I walk around this city and I feel so exceptionally blessed. It'll just be a normal ol' day and then I'll turn the corner of a street and the view will take my breath away. The Castello has lights up that change with the music. I'll have to go and take a video because it's just too cool. As for photos and all that, I can finally put up some Duomo photos I took a couple weeks ago. Enjoy!

Love,
Grace

One Of The Most Ridiculous Things I've Ever Tried To Do

2008-11-29T02:04:00.000-08:00

is learn German IN Italian. When your mother-tongue isn't involved AT ALL it makes it a lot harder for information to stick in the brain. I feel like the all the words just slosh around long enough to find an escape route and leave. So that is why I'm extremely happy with myself because I studied only German last night and during first block, and during second block I did a vocabulary test AND an oral exam and I think that (if we were to convert my grades to the American system) I got at least a C on both tests. Maybe more. In America I would be disappointed, but I'm feeling pretty ecstatic about it here.

Thanksgiving + Snow

2008-11-28T01:57:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was Thanksgiving. It was a wonderful day and I have so much to be thankful for this year especially. About 10 of us exchangers met at Mary's house after a morning of cooking and celebrated together. It felt so nice to be together and it was OK to miss our families because we've made a new type of family here through this experience. I just felt really happy all day long thinking of everything I'm grateful for and all of the things I've been blessed with.

Then to top if off, I woke up this morning to it SNOWING! It's snowed once before but it was quite insignificant. But today it's been coming down for hours and it's so beautiful. I doubt it will stick but it sure is fun to watch! It looks like Milan starts winter before Ashland does, anyhow. I am COLD.

Ciao!
Grace

una brutta cosa

2008-11-26T14:08:00.002-08:00

Since I have arrived, two people have commited suicide by throwing themselves in front of the metro. This has really shaken me and is just an example of the crazy things you encounter when you leave your small town.

Cold & So Beautiful I Can't Stand It!

2008-11-23T11:01:00.000-08:00

So it's Sunday night and I need to write about my weekend while all of the memories are crisp and fresh. (Another thing that is crisp and fresh is Milan. Today was the most beautiful weather I think I've ever seen here. But don't let me get ahead of myself. We must start with yesterday.)

I met Katharine and Danielle in the Amsterdam airport. They were so interesting and just super nice and I was totally stoked to be living in Milan with them. But then, as I discovered later, not everyone lives in the city. They both live in areas outside of the city and a good distance from me. So finally we made plans for them to come into Milan and stay a night with me. I asked Marina and she said yes!

Saturday after school Danielle's mom brought both of them to my house and Jody came too. We took the cutest walk through Brera (one of my favorite parts of the city), ending up at the famous art museum La Pinacoteca di Brera. We spent a good two hours+ enjoying every single room in the museum. We discussed the paintings and beyond. For me, it was (shockingly) my first museum and I was just so excited to finally be there, I could hardly contain myself. The art feels different here. Amazing art can be found in many museums, but here in Italy it all feels so connected. I don't know how to explain it. It feels so much more real, the religious paintings feel so much more significant, and the artists are Italian. It is rooted in their history and their culture. When I see a painting in D.C. I marvel at it, don't get me wrong. It's impossible not to appreciate Leonardo. But guess what? Now I'm appreciating Leonardo in the country where he lived. When I look at his art, I realize that somewhere here in Italy, centuries ago, Leonardo was changing the world. I'm here, and he was here. I saw The Last Supper. I was in a room that he spent 3 years of his life working in! UM HELLO? And this isn't even just about Da Vinci. So much of the art just made such of an impression. Together we moved from room from room, and we were noticing all the little details that so many paintings had in common. Our questions accumulated as we all lamented our lack of Bible knowledge. There are so many signs and special details that the artists added and we just couldn't stop wondering, " Why, what does this mean?"

After that delightful experience (p.s. we saw Il Bacio) we met up with John and Kylee and went to a pizzeria. It was a lot of fun and I think we all were just ridin' the feel good wave. We couldn't stop talking about how lucky we were. As we walked home, Danielle, Katharine, and I had one of those talks that seem to encompass so many big life themes and the sharing of ideas, experiences, and perspectives. I hadn't had such a good talk since I arrived.

We woke up at 7:30 AM to the sound of Ben Harper on my alarm clock. By 9:10 we were outside the Duomo and were already amazed by the sunshiney weather. The sky was a bright and clear and the cold breeze blew on our faces, giving us pink cheeks. We met Jody and Kylee in front of the Duomo. And after running through some crowds of pigeons just to see them fly, we went to the back of the Duomo and bought tickets to climb the stairs and go on the roof. The only time I had done this before was with Giorgio and my Rotary club one dark rainy night. This morning the weather couldn't have been better and it did not disappoint. I would camp on the Duomo roof if someone let me. I'd get all kinds of frostbite/flu combinations if there was 24hr availability to the roof of the Duomo. It is truly amazing and although I took photo after photo no recreation came close. I saw the snowtopped peaks of the Alps. I looked down and saw marathon runners following a course around the Galleria. I saw churches and bell towers galore. I could see the Castello. And the marble gleamed under the brilliant sun.

I will continue this tomorrow, I need to go to bed.

OK, sorry for the wait.

So the highlights of Sunday went on to include seeing La Conversione Di Saulo by Caravaggio which was an incredible experience. There was an enormous line in the Piazza della Scala to view the painting. We also took a stroll down Via Torino (we bought roasted chesnuts and linked arms. and yes we sang a xmas song) and saw the canals under a darkening sky. We just keep imagining how wonderful everything will look when all the Christmas lights are lit. Right now they just keep appearing in different places hung on metal skeleton structures. I want them to light up!

I think that covers it.
Moral of the Story: I had a great weekend and I might just be the luckiest person in the universe.

Thank you Rotary!

Trains & Cremona & Blue Skies

2008-11-17T00:40:00.000-08:00

Being intelligent really is a valuable thing. Sometimes I can pull it off. Sometimes it is simply beyond me. During my trip to Cremona, well- it was out of sight completely. Jody and I managed to get off at the wrong train station. We got confused by our tickets and didn't quite get to Cremona on the first try. But the station didn't look right so I asked a nearby man where we were and if, say I wanted to get to Cremona, was this the wrong place to be. It was. So after having a good laugh at the situation we set off to find the information desk. I explained it all to the man behind the window and asked which was the next train to Cremona. After telling us we'd been stamping our tickets wrong (and not to do it again), he pointed out the window to the train adjacent to him and said that it went to Cremona. We setting off running down the stairs, Jody calling out that the train was about to leave and we had to hurry! When we ran up another staircase we found ourselves on the other side of the station and NOT near our train. We ran back to the information desk. I asked some teenage boys HOW to get to our train. I glanced at the man at the information desk and he was pointing to the door RIGHT NEXT TO HIM. Right in front of us. The obvious choice.

We hurried onto the train, in case the stupid-people-haters were out to get us. It was intensely hysterical. But then once we got on the train it was completely empty. It was JUST us on the entire train. First we took advantage of this, taking photos and dancing around. But then we started to wonder where this train REALLY went- probably to some unknown location where the information desk man waited for us. *creepy music* We were relieved when we finally got to Cremona. The station was much less sketchy than where we were before. We went and waited by the newspaper stand where we were supposed to meet this girl Margot. Jody asked if I was sure we were in Cremona, because she hadn't seen the sign. I went up to the newspaper stand man and asked once again, "Dove siamo?" (Where ARE WE? Why am I always asking this question?).

Luckily, we were in fact in Cremona- But we had no money on our cell phones and we were kind of just waiting for one of the girls to either call us or meet us. Nobody met us. Nobody called. And after a good half hour by the newspaper stand we went into the warmth of the train station café instead. We sat there for a while, then decided we better go find some payphones. Finally, as we were calling Margot walked up. Relief. Then we went back to her house with her while she explained that she and Elise had a mix up and thought the other was picking us up. Let me just say that the kids in Cremona have it MADE. Their houses are ridiculously huge, first of all. Margot's place could fit like 6 or 7 families. It's like a maze, too. Margot showed us around and opened the door to one room she "seriously discovered 2 days ago." I could have paid for this trip with the change found under the cushions of these people's couches.

So then after dropping all of our stuff off we met up with the other 3 kids in Cremona and got something to eat. Then we went to Brandon's house and hung out there for a while with his Italian brother and all of his friends. After that we headed into the center, where just about everyone goes every Saturday night. It was a fun night. Cremona is just really cute and everyone was really nice. I spent the night at Margot's and the next day we all went to the center and climbed up the church bell tower, which they say is the highest brick building in Europe. After climbing it, I believed it. The view from the top was amazing and we could see all of Cremona. We got some pizza and gelato before Jody and I had to catch a train back to Milan. I really enjoyed hanging out with the kids from Cremona and I have a feeling we'll be taking some trips together in the future. :)

Today was a BEAUTIFUL day. The weather was truly a blessing. The sun shone and there was a chilly wind but not too cold and the sky was easter egg blue. I couldn't even contain myself. I got home from school and immediately called Marco to tell him I was going running. I trecked back across the city to go to the track by the Polytechnical Institute, where the Politi's like me to go since there are always tons of people. I didn't mind. It was so worth it. I got home not too long ago, showered, and drank some lemon tea. I'm feeling rather good and am completely satisfied with how my Monday has gone so far.

:) I'll steal some of Jody's photos of Cremona as soon as I can. I couldn't take photos because my batteries went dead after the train.

Ciao, Bacci!
Grace

Well folks,

2008-11-14T10:36:00.001-08:00

We have entered the rainy season. For the past two weeks, it's just been plain gross. Now don't get me wrong, the cold I love. I can handle that. I'm ready for the upcoming months of hot beverages and seeing my breath and wearing earmuffs. I'm so down for that. But getting my feet wet every single morning on the way to school is just not fun. As my lovely new friend Jody said "If the sky was a person, it'd be dying". I have begun cheerful morning tactics to combat the near inevitable horrible mood from wet feet. I'll listen to podcasts of Lake Woebegon or Wait Wait Don't Tell Me!. God Bless NPR. I always show up at school smiling. (Although, my English has improved since I began doing this, and I'm not sure if it's entirely in my best interest).

But some lovely things have happened lately and continue to happen just in time to raise my spirits (wet feet and all). I saw Ra Ra Riot last night, an American band playing here in Milan. It was actually at a not-so-popular discoteca in the outskirts of the city. I went with Paulo, a boy I know who lives mega close to the place and a couple other people. After waiting entirely too long and having to suffer the Italian who played as an introduction- Ra Ra Riot took the stage, and I really just loved the whole thing from that point on. :)

School is getting both better and worse. I'm getting to the point where I can start to try. I can understand everything
about half the time even if some key concepts, context, and advanced vocabulary still passes me by. I can usually get a twisted version of what they are talking about, so I feel good. The trouble is, now I have to work. Hahaha. The teachers have caught on so they all keep asking me things and then I get overwhelmed. For example, the Philosophy teachers seems to think that I know what is going on in her class and has said very nicely that I can take a test whenever I want. I might understand a conversation they have in class, but I have absolutely no idea what theme we are discussing, which philosopher, or what the test would be about. Not to mention that I have to look up about half the words everytime I open the text book. Fortunately, she isn't the pushy type and I think I'll just start by trying to explain a paragraph I read in the book, etc. The point is, I'm starting to study more than just Italian these days. In fact, in a few minutes Marina is going to help me do my German, because (as usual) I have no idea what is going on. I must say I am enjoying the bizarre experience of being clueless. It really is an eye-opener for me about anyone who decides to come to America and tries to learn English. Seriously, Bravo.

This weekend I'm going to Cremona! I'm pretty excited :) I'll try to take a lot of photos to share with you. Thanks again for reading and I'll try to keep updating as often. I'm beginning to cough these days, and I'm sure the same cold season has begun back home. Everyone drink tea! And buy some Ricola!

Love from Grace

The Last Supper

2008-11-10T01:12:00.000-08:00

I saw it.
There are no words.
I will not try to describe it.

???

2008-11-07T07:15:00.000-08:00

So I'm not sure what I'm going to do when I go home and have to start eating lunch at school again. I mean, I think of the lunch line and cringe. I imagine packing my lunch and I'm puzzled. What is going to happen when I don't get to go back to the house for a home-cooked meal? Where am I going to find the same mozzarella?! How am I going to recreate a portable version of all of the Italian goodness?

I just don't know.

This past week

2008-11-03T10:02:00.000-08:00

was really great for me. Going to Como was an enormous treat, and I've been staying really busy in and out of school. My lessons with Suora Ada are getting so much easier to do. I really feel like I've accomplished a lot with my Italian and now I am beginning to study and perfect my past and future tenses. When I got here, I didn't bother with trying to learn anything but the present. When I needed to explain something about the past or future I just announced it. I would say "In the past" and then continue on with present tense. It was ridiculous to try to memorize anything else at that point. I picked up on passato prossimo quickly enough and I use that any chance I get. But now I feel very comfortable studying futuro, imperfetto, etc. and it feels so much easier to process. In school, during my free period, Jody and I studied different tenses of "dire", "potere", and "fare" which are the verbs "to tell", "to be able to", and "to make, do". We spent probably less than an hour drilling, but when I went to my lesson this evening with Suora Ada I was able to use what I learned so easily! Living here does tend to invite opportunities for ongoing practice. I am also trying to make what I say not just understandable- but correct. My grammar isn't the best yet. BUT I AM FEELING SO GOOD. It's not yet been 2 months for me, and I already feel like I have come so far. So you have caught me at a moment of great satisfaction. I know this is manageable- I just have to tackle all of my challenges one by one and have patience with myself. This is one of those things that doesn't happen overnight. But maybe it can happen over 10 months! :)

Ciao,
Grace

Lake Como

2008-11-02T13:53:00.001-08:00

I am in love.

Cadorna (In Milan)

2008-11-02T13:51:00.001-08:00

The Latest

2008-10-29T07:08:00.000-07:00

My tutor is one of my favorite people in the entire world. Thank you Rotary for your impeccable system. I've been having minor difficulties with my family situation, so I went to my tutor, Giorgio and his wife Valeria. We talked through them and found a solution. Giorgio also said that if I ever just need a weekend away I can stay with them. He'll even take me up to his house in Como. (Yes, he really does go to the same golf club as George Clooney. And right now Giorgio is in Rome for an important meeting with the new pope- he has a photo of himself with the last one on his mantel. Also the President of Czech Rep. wants Giorgio to be on the Italian Consulate, I think. So he's going to Czech and is going to see if I can come too. I said to him "Giorgio, You're a big deal!" and he says "No, you should talk to my wife. She is much better. And all of this *gesturing to his house, etc* is not important. You come into this world with nothing, and you leave it with nothing. The only thing that lasts is the love in the hearts of your friends and family") So Giorgio is great. And now I hope that my own family dynamic will be a lot smoother these next two months. After I talked with him, I went out with his daughter Ludovica on her vespa to have dinner with her two cousins. It was nice, they have a beautiful dog, they were really friendly, and we all made fools of ourselves with a kareoke machine.

Also, because of all these Italian protests/festivities I will not be going back to school until Monday, and it's Wednesday so you KNOW I'm happy about that one. I baked my class chocolate chip cookies and brought in a lot of different candies to wish everyone and good vacation and and Happy Halloween! I'm still not sure what I'll be doing for the next few days, but I'm pretty sure a daytrip to Como is on the agenda, as is finding a horror movie/cinema. We'll see. I will be sleeping in tomorrow, no doubt about it. As for now, I have a lesson in an hour, so I better get myself together.

I love you all!
Grace

foto ancora

2008-10-24T08:42:00.001-07:00

A bit old but...

2008-10-24T08:18:00.000-07:00

Photos!

2008-10-22T09:38:00.001-07:00

OK, so some of these are obviously of La Scala, the theatre house here in Milan. I'm pretty sure I wasn't allowed to take photos- so to get the full gravity of the situation you should google it, because I had to sneak these and I don't think they portay the absolute magnificence of the place. The big box with the fancy chairs that you see, is meant for guests of honor- like the Queen of England. The fiat 500 is officially my dream car. The other shots are just photos I took walking around near my school.

rapidamente

2008-10-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

I'm about to go to the Scala in less than an hour. My last post I wrote last night but didn't get around to actually posting it until today. I just wanted to let you know that today has already been a great day, because I have only spoken in Italian- and I have talked A LOT because I had this huge conversation with the computer room guy and then I had lunch with Vanessa so I have really been a chatterbox. Some headache medicine wouldn't hurt- but I feel pretty happy. Vanessa sits next to me in school also and we are always writing notes so I write in Italian and she corrects my grammar. She says she has no problem understanding what I mean, but that my structure and grammar needs work. I know there is a long way to go, but for a month and a half I am feeling rather accomplished. I want there to be more and more days like today because I know that I am improving the more headaches I get ;). So Vanessa and I are going to try to find at least 2 things to do together a week, whether it is to see an art exhibition or to have lunch or to poke around in shops she knows. Today she showed me a store that I loved. She noticed how much I love color and it was mega cute. I think that time with her, plus the minimum of 3 lessons I have after school a week, will be a pleasant way of making sure my Italian keeps growing.

OK, I want some tea and medicine before I go to La Scala. Photos later.

Love, Grace

p.s. Thank you for commenting! I do read them and I do appreciate it all!

Finalmente

2008-10-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

Not write for one whole week?! How dare I? Well, it wasn’t intentional, darlings. I’ve just been as mad as a hatter with everything I’ve been doing. I’ll try to give you the highlights of the week and some more interesting facts I might not have mentioned before about life here in Italy. The differences are everywhere and I want to make sure I write them down before they become too commonplace for me so that I don’t even notice them.

First of all, Monza: Now this is no diss to any Rotarian or Formula 1 fan- but I just don’t dig car races. They aren’t my thing. I watched Formula 1 with my host dad before on the television, and at least you stay with the cars and always know what’s going on, but these race tracks aren’t just like circles and you can’t see it all at once. So basically you are sitting in some bleachers and every few minutes a car goes by. So I wasn’t thrilled- but I didn’t really need to be because I met up with all the other exchange students from the whole region and I hadn’t seen them all together since the week I got here. It was a lot of fun, and I also really like the coordinator guy, and he is always making his way around talking to us and generally being a really cool smiley guy.
Sunday I took a bike ride with Marco and Daniele out of the city to the neighboring village of Marimondo. I think that’s how it is spelled. It was something like a 16 mile ride, which felt really good 1) because even if I walk everywhere here- I never really get my heart rate up without sports in school and a gym to go to. And 2) The weather was amazing and we escaped the city to see actually country-like horizons. Once we got to the village I met up with Marina and we went into this really old historic church where the monks lived back in the day to see a really amazing concert of this duet- one lady on harp, and another guy playing a sort of exotic guitar that I have never heard of before. I met some friends of the family too. They all seem to be teachers! It was nice.
This week at school was significantly better, because I felt like I was actually getting somewhere with the English teacher who is helping me set up my schedule. I t took a good bit of me figuring out things on my own, but eventually we both came together with the possibilities and nailed down a functioning ‘orario’. I’ll try to write it here. I have a lot of self-study blocks. Too many, I think. I can use these to do all of my homework for my lessons and school, but I’m hoping to fill some of them with online courses about religions or history or some hybrid of the two. Like, I know what the beginning of America was like- but can I get in on the beginning of anything else? It’d be cool if, you know- when I’m in Europe I understand more of it’s history and the movement of its cultures. I feel like there are such huge gaps in my knowledge of history AND religion. Coming here makes me oh too aware. I don’t even care about getting credit for school, I just wanna know. I seriously find it fascinating and I’d rather spend my free hours figuring out the origin of Buddhism than checking my facebook.

So anyway. My schedule as of now.
There are five lessons each day, one hour each.

Monday: Art History, Religion (maybe), Self Study, Self Study, Physics
Tuesday: Italian, Philosophy (3rd yr.), Philosophy (5th yr.), Self Study, Self Study
Wednesday: German, German, Italian, Italian, Philosophy (5th yr.)
Thursday: Italian, English, Religion, Philosophy (5th yr.), Self Study
Friday: Self Study, English, German, Physics, Philosophy (3rd yr.)
Saturday: Philosophy (3rd yr.), German, Self Study, Self Study, History

I actually feel pretty lucky because not all schools go out of their way to help the exchange students like mine does. You have to understand, the whole class has the exact same schedule. They stay together for YEARS with the same people. They stay in the same room. They do not go anywhere for different lessons to see different students and professors. So really, it is quite difficult for it to be arranged for me to do so. And now I don’t have to take things like Latin, gym, or their math I did a long time ago, or French, or biology which I also already did.
OK, what else this week? Oh, there are protests in Milan about transportation and the Education system and lots of students and teachers go to these so it is pretty pointless going to school because like 5 people are there, so I’ve gotten out of school twice this year already and they say there is a big protest soon in a couple weeks. There was one this week and it was great because I went to school- figured out it was a protest day since like nobody was there- went to Jody’s house which is close and we made nutella crepes which is like breakfast for God. Kylee came too and we watched The Three Musketeers. Can you tell I like protest days? I do know what exactly they are protesting about but it is kind of complicated and I don’t feel like explaining it right now because I am already writing a lot. If you are super interested- write a comment about it and I explain it in another post if desired.
Also- fun fact. There are espresso machines in the schools, and they do not cost 1 euro like they do in the cafes, but like 30 cents and they are just as good! I love love love espresso. These machines also give you hot chocolate, lattes, machiattos, etc.
My philosophy teacher of the 3rd year is my favorite teacher here. I haven’t met the other philosophy teacher yet, since I only just started my schedule (I get extra philosophy J). But the one in my original class- 3LD- is very fun to watch. I say watch because he is entertaining just like television. Or like television muted. Maybe not that bad, but he speaks crazy fast so it’s hard to catch the meaning but he gestures so wildly one day he is going to fall out of his chair. And he tells these stories/jokes which I of course don’t get, but he laughs so hard and it’s nice to see him laugh. He also wears the same outfit all week long (or longer), which creates suspense for what he will wear next. This is what happens when you do not comprehend the subject matter. You find other things to observe.
Also, whenever they translate his stories for me it comes out like this “He said that he went to a seminar with his friend and they were dancing with everyone and his friend went crazy and hit a monk.” Or this “There was a beautiful man and a woman fell in love with him and she gave him one of her houses to be living in. He is living in dis house but he was sad and wanted to kill hisself, and so he has tried but it did not work. And the woman came and asked him why he is sad and he said that he was very happy and did not want to kill hisself and so she left and then the man went and stole the neighbor’s cat and ran away and nobody never saw him again.”
And this is why I like this class.
Also this week I made Mexican food for my family and some guests. I went to hear an amazingly beautiful choir of mountain singers. Alpine culture. Gorgeous. I also saw an exhibition about Galileo.
Fun Facts:

The grocery store down the street is jalapeno-less.

I found out my school has a computer lab and they seriously have a guy in there just to chill with the computers and book classes for lab time.

Milan makes me both appreciate fashion more, and realize how unimportant it is. I like the way people dress here better than at home. It is more elegant, and simple, and I think I could definitely adjust with no complaints. But it can also get more extravagant here- and when I see some really expensive and severe looking high-heels I don’t understand. It’s not like you are in American where you walk to your CAR to go to work, you walk everywhere here. I would seriously die if I wore some of the shoes here. At times, Milan feels much more concentrated on image.

I feel so much more patriotic here. Maybe it just happens when you leave your country. At home, I didn’t really feel the need to proclaim my love for my country. It kind of just came with living there and being all American doing American things. But here, well- it’s not America. And when I appreciate the differences between my own country and the rest of the world, naturally I get a lil’ red white n’ blue running through my veins. I really do feel proud to be an American, whatever situation we are in as a nation, because it is MY nation.

I want boots and scarves and coats and purses.

Today I saw the oldest church bell tower in the city of Milan. I believe they said it was from the first century. Maybe I should google that, because some things gets lost in translation as my philosophy teacher’s stories prove.

I adore the 80 yr old grandmother. I think she can be a little needy and this can irritate the family, who sees them all the time. But I’m not used to having a grandparent around all the time- especially not an 80 yr old one, so I don’t mind keeping her company and helping her with her seatbelt or walking slow with her. She is rather frail and she loves to kiss.

I ran this week!

I want to find a team sport. I start yoga this week I hope. Tomorrow is a Monday which makes me happy, because as you can see on my schedule, it’s a quite easy day.

OK BASTA.
More than enough for now.
I will write soon, because tomorrow I am going to La Scala which is the most important theatre house in Milan, everyone says it’s beautiful so I’ll try to include some photos!

Ciao!
Grace

I sure am glad...

2008-10-10T10:51:00.000-07:00

that tomorrow is Saturday. This week will not make the list of "Grace's Fav Moments". I had Italian lessons 4 days in a row (after school). I couldn't seem to catch up on sleep and I was so exhausted. Does exhaustion come in waves? Because sometimes I feel fine and then other times I just want to stay in my bed and hibernate. Also, in America I usually have one day to sleep in- but since they have school on Saturday AND they attend church every week, I've had to adjust. And I guess it doesn't help that they eat so late here. My family eats pretty late back home, but it's also not as important to eat together so if I really wanted to go to bed early I could always fix myself something and conk out before they even all get home. This didn't seem like an option here, but yesterday I came home from my lesson and I felt so dead that I called my host mom and asked her if I could just make myself something. She said of course, and I was in bed by SEVEN. That's right, thats eleven blissful hours of sleep. And today I had energy! I think my host family thinks I'm sick, though. It's kind of funny- when I take a nap or get in my pjs and have my bear Marina always gets me to take my temperature (which they do under the arms, btw) and I'm not sick. I'm just 1) an exchange student that spends her day reading the dictionary and stretching my brain in weird ways and 2) someone who really likes to sleep.

But tomorrow, as I have stated, is Saturday. I'll be going to the second Rotary event of the year, which is at Monza. I'm not exactly sure what it's about but I think it has something to do with fast racecars.

Ciao!
Grace

Let me catch you up.

2008-10-06T12:15:00.001-07:00

I'll try to summarize the past couple days.

Saturday was Festa Americana! Got together with a few other rotary exchangers and we went grocery shopping and proceeded to make the most glorious burritos and chocolate chip cookies EVER. I don't think I've ever appreciated homemade salsa more. Honestly, it tasted like home. We stayed up late, rather excited with our ability to comprehend one another. Sunday I left early for church, and had an afternoon meeting "friends of the family". I was amazed at how much Italian I comprehended on Sunday. There was a lot of talking and I kept up with most of it. I passed out and when I awoke this morning I wanted to stay in bed all day. It was so cold! I need to invest in some SERIOUS SOCK-AGE. So I dragged myself to school where I did a lot of daydreaming (did I just use all of my brain juices on Sunday or what?). I came home for lunch, had a two hour nap, and went to my Italian lesson. I was less-dead than normal at the end and in a pretty good mood. Tonight I discovered the miracle of brocolli with pasta.

Bed soon.
Grace

Responsibility

2008-10-01T05:21:00.000-07:00

So, I'm trying to do the right thing. There is really no point in coming to Italy (or anywhere else) to be an exchange student if all you are going to do is hang out with Americans. Now, I'm a big supporter of the couple times a week- venting, speaking english, talking fast, making (and understanding) jokes, and generally getting your grove back with fellow exchange students. It really does save me after a low day. But I'm starting to toe the line between too much. So today- that's right- I said no to shopping. Instead I came home. I'm going to look up a Macbeth summary, proceed to reading Macbeth, and go to my Italian lesson and be there EARLY. And yes, I already did the homework in French class.

So that is my little victory over the lazy little me inside wanting to share a good few hours of English slang.

Love Grace.

p.s. But I didn't say no to a quick salad at Jody's house right after school. Her house is always stocked- I'm not kidding. And it was pretty funny, we are so used to eating delicious Italian bread with every meal we were looking all over for it. We ended up substituting with these like hot dog bun things. We were so disappointed with them. I even said "This tastes American".

Just a plain good day.

2008-09-30T11:16:00.001-07:00

So right now I'm feeling really cheerful. I had an average day- nothing too incredible.
Things I did today:
Went to school.
Finished reading Othello. Now, gotta start on Macbeth (I know this is for English class and all, but I think I'm going to just keep reading Shakespeare. You gotta admit, the guy has style. I love everything he writes.)
Had lunch with the exchange girls.
Raced to my Italian lesson (OK, I was like 10 minutes late- fine 15. But Suora Ada was nice about it)
Went home (surprising not exhausted near death- like usual after my Italian lesson)
Now I'm in my pjs and I've drank a nice cup of tea. Dinner soon.

I think I might just be adjusting alright.
Imagine that!

Ciao,
Grace

Varigotti

2008-09-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

First of all, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

Saturday night I got carsick. Bleh. Driving is different here. like fast- then slow and at the same time windy. My family felt so bad. They didn't understand "carsick".

But Sunday was one of the best days I've spent here. We took a 3 hour drive to Varigotti the small village on the coast pretty close to France. It was incredible. It really is just like the pictures you see in the Italy tourist books on the B&N sales rack. I stepped inside the fairy tale. There were houses in all shades of sunlight, and the breeze was warm on my face. We hiked up a little mountain trail and then later walked through the village and on the beach. Let me repeat: Incredible. I was a madwoman with my camera. It wasn't necessary to DO anything- just be there in the presence of it all. Like Marina says "Italy is a concentration of fine things" and it really is the truth. We had pesto of course, pesto is huge on the coast. Did I mention I've had pasta and pesto for the past three days and I still could eat more? We peeked inside little ancient churches and wandered around the fruit&veggie market. I can't wait, they say we will go to other villages around the coast, and maybe even in France.

I'm pretty happy. But when we got home it was late and I was exhausted today at school. I came home and just passed out for like 4 hours of DEEP sleep.

Tomorrow more Italian lessons. And Happy Birthday Jody! I hope you liked the chocolate cake that I had to go through so much foreigner-difficulty to acquire, haha.

Love to all,

Ciao!

Grace

p.s. Sure, I'll give some pics.

Exploration

2008-09-26T11:12:00.000-07:00

Today was so much fun! Well, first I had to go to school. It starts to feel like a big inconvenience when you live in Italy and don't understand any classes anyway. But I know it is helping in a sneaky sly way. The cogs in my brain are alive, even if they work VERY SLOWLY. But after I had lunch with these super cute girls from my class, Vanessa + Elisa, along with Jody- an exchange friend (from Hawaii). It was a much better experience than being in a big group like I was earlier this week. I had at least one American, and we were able to converse quite easily with the girls. They are some of my favorites in my class. Although, I must admit we went to the wrong place- the food was horrible. Then we said ciao and Jody and I proceeded to have an immensely enjoyable afternoon.

First- Gelato! Second, we went back to my house and I am living up to my word and taking photos of everything. Then we wandered around my area of Milan. First we saw my church, Sant' Ambrosio. And after that we just took every road that looked the most interesting. It was fabulous! I got a lot of photos, and saw many beautiful areas quite near me. Unfortunately the evening had to come to an end- I definitely wasn't going to be late again. If you'd like to see my photos, I put them on Facebook. There are too many for this, but I'll give you a taste. Soon I'll put 'em on Flickr.

In a rather good mood,
Grace

First Reprimand

2008-09-25T11:37:00.000-07:00

Uh Oh.

So I was supposed to be home at 6 today, but I got so caught up with my girls from Rotary the time flew. Before I knew it, it was 6 and I was far from home, still had to return to Jody's house for my things, and backtrack all the way home. It involved walking, trams, and the metro. I was an hour and a half late. Marina wasn't happy. Eek! I gotta get a watch one of the days.

I still had an amazing day. I'm working on taking more pictures! And videos! :)

much love,
ciao!
Grace

Just a few photos

2008-09-23T12:39:00.000-07:00

These are from that rainy weekend in the mountains. I haven't had a lot of time to take photographs but don't worry- soon I'm setting aside time. I'm even going to pull out the manual soon ;) Oh and one is of the canal in the daytime

side note:

I have fallen in love- with the Fiat 500.

I'm booked.

2008-09-23T10:26:00.001-07:00

Already free time in my week has vanished.

Today was actually a lot of fun. I started a little late this morning- but I tell you what, peaches and apples taste better on the run. School was ok, today is one of those days where I don't understand any classes (meaning I have no math, English, or religion). But during French I worked on my Italian homework from the tutoring center. During Philosophy I did Sudoku. During Physics I wrote a letter and did more Sudoku. And during German I copied the Physics notes and did yet more Sudoku. I'm getting pretty good at it by now. Then I met up with three other exchange girls for lunch and wandering around NOT finding a gelateria before our Italian tutoring (through Rotary- not the nun). A total of 8 students showed up for tutoring, so our whole meeting was really just planning on how we will be splitting up in the future and where we will go and meeting everyone. It was great, afterward we ALL went and found a gelateria and at the metro we parted ways. I came home, showered, studied some more Italian with the help of my host brother. Marina just walked in so dinner will be soon.

Plans for the week:
Today 2 different groups of girls asked me to lunch. One group tomorrow, on Wednesday- so I will just go straight to nun tutoring after. And another for Friday, I'll probably have tutoring that day too. As for Thursday, the first 3 exchange girls I met up with today and I want to go running together so after school we'll eat and change at Jody's. That should be fun too. I can't wait to sign up for yoga and volleyball so I can get some more physical activity. Let's face it, the walk to and from school is pretty long- but it really doesn't get my heart rate up or make me sweat. I need enough movement to shatter the stress :)

So, yep. That's my week. And this weekend I'm going to the seaside. I will have to make time to read Macbeth and Othello though (their summer reading), I have a test on Monday. I figure I should at least pass English.

Wish me luck!
Grace

Full Weekend + Monday

2008-09-22T10:38:00.001-07:00

I don't have that much time so I'll try to sum it up quickly.

Saturday:
I WENT TO SCHOOL.
Then to dinner. I stunned some teenage boys with my poker/shuffling skills (I feel like napoleon dynamite here just so you know). Mouths dropped. Thank you brothers- for all those years of helping me to be a MASTA.
Saw the milano castle by night. Bellisimo!

Sunday:
Church- baptism. cute chubby baby. lots of italians.
Lunch with Marina's sister-in-law. Delicious. Her sister-in-law is a chef.
Went to an expo with the guys from Saturday night. That was a cultural experience- Comics.
Came home, watched Ocean's 12 in italian. ate dinner, showered, tried to read a bit, had my first video conference with my family (which made me all warm and fuzzy inside) and passed out.

Today:
School wasn't so bad. Had German class. It was German 3 but I think I'd like to switch to 1 and try it out. I don't really wanna learn French this year. German gives me more of a contrast for my brain. Saw the other Americans girls during break. Discussed Sweet Home Alabama with the girls who sit next to me and the difference between chapstick, lipstick, lipgloss, and lip balm. Came home, ate lunch, rested a bit, then at 4:00 I went to my first Italian tutoring lesson at PortoFranco where a very patient nun guided me through a lesson of prounciation. After a couple hours of this I got a little emotionally on edge at this point, but held it together. It is difficult to have teachers who don't understand English. Gotta work through the stress, which is why I walked home and got on facebook to send messages to my chums. And now I've finished a blog. Was a pretty good day- and tomorrow I have a Rotary lesson so I'm having lunch with a whole bnch of other exchange students b4. Should be fun!

Love to all!
Ciao.
Grace

School

2008-09-20T05:36:00.000-07:00

So today was my third day of school, and I'll admit that it is already getting better. Math is a piece of cake. They are studying radicals. The teacher- who knows no English- started to once in a while look over at me and say "OK?" but after numerous nods I think she noticed that I finished all the problems in about two seconds. I wonder if I'll stay in that class all year. It's not like I need a math credit- but year long review? I guess we'll see. English is more of a history lesson for me- which is actually pretty interesting since we're learning about the history of Great Britian and not the U.S.A. Physics, I have no idea I can't keep up with the teacher talking. At this I think we are just talking about Einstein. Philosophy and History is taught by the same teacher, who I would love to understand since he seems to make everyone laugh while talking at a rapid speed and gesturing wildly, but alas comprehension is not my fate. Religion is fun! It's not required, you can either take it or go somewhere else to study- so it's not a very serious class. I just met the teacher today and the whole lesson proceeded in asking me questions, discussing the history of Methodism, and the teacher talking very slowly (he is truly a gift from God). Also during this class we all sit on our desks.

Also, life is life anywhere- and irritability is inevitable. Beware of Grace too early in the morning. She doesn't like to chat it up. Especially in Italian. haha.

Tonight we are all going to have dinner at the house of my potential third host family. I hope that I like them! The mother's name is also Marina. But before I will try to read an Italian children's book and perhaps take a nap.

I hear Maria Bambina- she just got here. I'm off to greet her.

Love from Grace

p.s.
I am a metro master!
And everyone loved my american chocolate chip cookies!
Also- I think I might be losing weight...how strange.

First Day of School

2008-09-17T22:15:00.000-07:00

Before:

Of course I woke up way too early. I'm all ready to go and I still have a half hour to waste. I'm wearing some new clothes of course :) Although I am officially cutting myself off from shopping anymore for at least a month. Yes, everything I bought I'm sure I'll wear numerous times over and over. I bought very classic styles so I'll blend in better than my usual neon self. But on the other hand, euros are not dollars. They are mega dollars. So no more "wandering" around the Duomo area with female friends. It is just too dangerous. I shall now explore other areas- parks, for example, have very little risk.

I'll give all the details of school when I come back.

After:

They have a cross! In their classroom! On the wall!
Also, I was introduced all old school like you see in the movies- you know, interrupting class and everyone was all around me asking me questions. Everyone seems really nice and I can understand some of the girls when they talk to me, but as far as understanding the teacher- haha yeah riiiiight. It's kind of boring during those blocks when you can't understand the teacher because listening makes your head hurt and the only other thing to do is look out the window. But English looks fun and I'm sure PE will be alright. I haven't had Spanish yet. I'm not sure whether I'm supposed to be doing the homework because it's pretty impossible at this point. I wouldn't understand if the teacher gave it anyway. Also, in my class I make 21 people. There is only ONE boy. Wild, eh?
I'm a bit tired. Tonight I will try to relax and rest. I'm making chocolate chip cookies for my family, American style.

love,
me

Sneak Peek of School

2008-09-16T05:24:00.001-07:00

This morning I went shopping with my neighbor. I can tell she is super nice and friendly- she reminds me of Mrs. Kinser for all you who know, but I cannot understand a single thing she says. A single thing! I spent a good portion of the day nodding my head and becoming increasingly exhausted with trying to decipher her Italian. AHHH. My head hurts.

is it possible?

2008-09-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

I might just be chic, modern, and stylish by the end of this exchange.

Just a quick note.

2008-09-15T03:33:00.000-07:00

So today should be a lot of fun. I'm meeting up with another exchange student in about an hour to explore the Duomo area- which really means poke my head into some of the most interesting shops in Milan. It'll be nice to not have an agenda or time limit. I really hope that the more I become familiar with the city, the more breathing room I'll be allowed. I'd also love to fine where they sell adapters and converters because going without my ipod/ihome and hair straightener is not my preferred situation. Oh how I fear a frizzy and music-less life.

Mama Mia!

2008-09-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Wow.
Get ready for a big one.

Important things to take note of right off:
I am quickly becoming hooked on espresso.
Don't get me started on pizza.
And I think I could happily spend the rest of my life walking around this city.
Exploring= My current and most stimulating hobby

Saturday

First I met up with all the Rotary people early in the morning. I saw some kids I had flown over with from Amsterdam, but there were many new faces. Most are Americans, I think there are two from Australia and one from Germany. I hadn't realized that not all of the kids lived in the city like me, but in areas around it like Bergamo and Lake Como. Misco (the Italian who seemed to be directing everything) started us off with introductions, rules, advice, and a general idea of all the trips we are going on together throughout this year. This was when we all got totally stoked- yes we shall indeed be going to Venice (for the Carnivale!) , Pisa, Florence, and Rome (for a full weekend!) as well as thoroughly touring our own region.

Today's event: Tour Milano
So all the exchange kids hopped on the metro and we headed down to the Duomo. We went in the Galleria, spun our heels on the bull of Torino for good luck- and waited for our tour guide. He arrived and for the next half hour or hour gave us quite the history lesson of Milan, while we took a good look at the Scala (the opera house) and the Galleria. Afterwards we went for (oh so amazing) pizza and gelato and we really go to know one another. And let me tell you, this is coffee ice cream like I have never had it before.

So then we returned to the Piazza and went completely around the Duomo and inside. Incredible. The weather wasn't that great- a little drizzly- so we didn't go on the roof but some others and I plan to go back together another time. Then we went to the Castle which is very close to the Duomo. Also going back to see the garden there, which the tour guide says is the biggest in the city. I need to see a bit more green, to be honest.

So after a very fun day with Rotary, Marco picked me up. After grocery shopping with Marina and Daniele, they dropped me off at Isa's house. I met her boyfriend, Fra and her dog Maggie. Her mother, who I had met before, made us a great dinner which we ate quickly. I accompanied them to the second canal in Milan, to meet some of their friends. So many people, especially youth, flock to the canals at night. I don't blame them, it's truly beautiful with all of the lights and small bars and cafés. I was introduced and of course all who knew English gave me their best effort, while I tried to make my tired brain follow their rapid Italian. It didn't work too well, but it was still nice to be once again immersed with Italians after my very English-speaking day. I returned home finally.

This morning we woke early to go to the moutains. Yes, my host family has a house in the Alps. Unfortunately the weather was pretty horrible, with rain and fog everywhere but I loved it nontheless. The fog resting around the mountain created a separated world in the small village. It seemed so far away from the big city, which I'm sure was the goal. We walked through the streets, umbrella in hand, stopping in at this shop or that shop with quick ciao's for people they knew. Did I mention Marina bought A LOT of cheese? Too soon we piled back in the car to go back down the winding roads, but we stopped at a small restaurant not far from the mountain where I had quite possibly the best hot chocolate in the world. You heard me. Funny how I always appreciate it more when my jeans are soggy and my toes beginning to numb. Fall is definitely here in Milan. When I arrived, all sun and already it's going grey.

After an hour to change and tidy up here at the house we went to church. It was my first time not only in an Italian church but any kind of Catholic church. Even though I understood little of the sermon I enjoyed the atmoshphere with the gorgeous ceilings and numerous hushed Italians. It is strange how the environment, a church like that, makes you feel as if you are the presence of something sacred with your first step in the door. Afterward, we picked up Marina Bambini from an aunt's house and took her home. I just finished dinner, cheese being the primary focus.

And yes, I realize that every food reference in this blog is sure to load me up with extra poundage. I was feeling so good before because I eat a lot more fruit and drink a lot more water here! But tomorrow I will look into the nearby parks and gyms because I'm going to need some very (VERY) regular exercise this year. Marina says that there is a gym nearby that is not as expensive as others. I also think school will help because my counselor says it isn't necessary for me to take latin or german, so she is going to take me out of some classes- I'm pretty sure I'll end up with two gym classes. She also mentioned African Dance after school? I really want to look into the after school stuff. And as far as libraries to do homework, Daniele says there is a huge one near the Duomo, which is perfect- being halfway between home and school.

I really want a routine! I want to check out the gym/ library situation so that when school starts I can begin it right away.

The amazing thing is I could still ramble away, but I must go to bed and this blog must end at some point. Mama Mia! (they actually say this here as an exclamation, not just in reference to a musical)

Buona Notte,
Grace

Downpour!

2008-09-12T10:05:00.000-07:00

I'm sleepy and my feet hurt- but today has been a great day!

Well, first Marina and I got stuck in a huge thunderstorm that never seemed to let up. We were trying to get my permesso di sogiorno (I think that's right...) and we had to run around with this umbrella we bought at the metro station but finally we ducked in a small coffee shop. Marina looked at me and said "The umbrella is not sufficient" and the way she said it-with her hair soaking wet, oh so funny.

I also had lunch (spaghetti!) with my Rotary tutor. Giorgio is very nice and tries to speak English for me. He is not as bad as he says he is. His wife, Valeria is a bit better. After lunch we walked through a very pretty area of Milan, where you cannot drive your car and there are many little shops and cafés.

Then I met Maria Teresa and her friends to go see an art exhibition. This was when I got my real Italian lesson, because her friend doesn't speak much English, and I was happy to (oh so slowly) try out more Italian. I also understood the descriptions of the paintings very well. I think it makes a big difference when there is a visual aspect as well as audio.

I walked home from the metro without getting lost!

So now I will rest as we celebrate Santa Maria Day with Maria Bambina.

Tomorrow is the District Rotary meeting- should be fun!
Ciao!
Grace

Progress

2008-09-11T08:08:00.000-07:00

So today I did a lot of things so far.

First, I met with my school counselor. She is an English teacher, thank heavens. It turns out I'll be starting school (along with the other 3 Americans at this particular high school) on the 18th, 3 days late. I'll be taking Linguisitics courses. She told me, and this is a direct quote, "for two months, you will not understand anything, in any class, at any time". So, I'm looking forward to it, naturally. Also I can do some extracurricular activities, but I will find out more about them when I begin school. There was another girl from the States there this morning, Kylee from Phoenix, Arizona.

Marco also showed me inside the Milan Train Station, which is pretty amazing although I think I was the only person gaping. It's undergoing a lot of construction and soon it will be much easier to go from metro to train and from train to metro.

Also today I went with Marina to a very popular tutoring center here in Milano, where many students go for extra help with their studies. They also have people to help foreigners learn Italian (that's me!). So I am now in their system and they are going to find the best tutors for me and we will set up appointments. I think that I will be able to go from school to PortoFranco (the name of the center) and then home, but we'll see.

And now I will finish with a list of things that are strange for me here in Italy.

1) There is a McDonalds quite near the house with GOLD lettering. No yellow or red anywhere.
2) Any American TV show. You think you are watching Will Smith, but then you realize he must have eaten an Italian because that is NOT his voice! (especially strange for the simpsons, or friends)
3) The grapes have seeds.
4) The church we will go to is called Sant Ambrosio, and Sant Ambrosio IS ON DISPLAY DOWSTAIRS. Skeletons don't look so bad dressed in gold and red velvet with candles around and a crown to boot!
5) Many people smoke cigarettes as they ride their bicycles...
6) Tiny tiny cars.
7) Gelato has oh so many flavors.
8) Water without ice?
9) Someone has made my bed three times! The cleaning phantom...
10) To flush, I hit something on the wall.
11) Also, there is not so much air conditioning in this country.

basta, ciao!

Grace

Senza Politi's

2008-09-10T10:23:00.000-07:00

Today was the first time I went out in Milano without a Politi by my side to help me! True, I had a wonderful friend of Anna, Isa helping me instead- but it was also challenging because Isa speaks very little English and so for about two hours I only spoke Italian. I had a very good time, and I think in those two hours I felt more confident with the language. She introduced me to some friends of hers and when one complimented my Italian I remember thinking it was just about the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me. We went along Via Torino which, Isa told me, is very famous for shopping- the kind of shopping with more realistic price tags (not exactly Gucci). I think that I will return there to go shopping, myself. I went into the closest thing they have to a Walmart- which is not very close. Not even close to a Food Lion, actually, but it has two floors so it's bigger (and cheaper) than anything else here. I bought conditioner, thank goodness. My host brother doesn't exactly have it laying around in the bathroom. Isa says that she will introduce me to other people, and that soon we should all go to the cinema together. She also knows some people who go to the same high school as me. Milan is crazy with it's schools! It has so many, and if you don't like the one you go to it is very easy to switch. There are many schools with different specialities- but I think mine is pretty straight forward. Tomorrow I will go to my school to meet my counselor. Wish me luck!

Ciao.
Grace

p.s. Today we also tried to buy a metro pass for me but we must get my citizen permit first. We will try tomorrow. The office was not open today.

Third Day

2008-09-09T10:35:00.000-07:00

OK, So there is much to tell already and I will try to do my best.

Language:
My Italian is very basic and needs work but I am not worried because I feel it improving every day. It is easiest for me to read Italian, a bit harder to listen, and most difficult to speak. This is because I can recognize verbs and Italian words that are familiar to me or remind me of Spanish, but I have not memorized the conjugations of those words so it is harder for me to use them correctly when I speak. However, I use what I know and there have been no major problems yet. I am sure that when I begin school the true difficulty will begin!

Milano:
The weather is pretty much the same as in VA, maybe a bit cooler. It is very nice to walk in the city because there is a lot of sunshine (molto sole!) and also a breeze. I have used the metro and also the bus system. The Politi's tell me that soon they will buy me the transportation card so that I do not have buy individual tickets. In Milan there is a big focus on art. It is quite wonderful, there are many museums and always there are exhibitions. This September there is a concert everyday for International Music. This is only my third day and I have already seen modern music by an orchestra from London, and tonight I saw music from Pakistan and Afghanistan. I look forward to all of the interesting concerts and exhibitions to come!

Rotary:
Today I went to my first Rotary meeting. It was a catered lunch in a hotel. It was a bit different than the meetings at home, they are a bit more formal. So many people here speak English- it is helpful when I am totally lost, but I would prefer very slow Italian. But anyway, I was introduced to many fabulous people and everyone seemed to be inviting me somewhere. Then after the lunch I introduced myself to the club with a very very very short speech. (In English: Hello. My name is Grace Fetty. I am from VA in the United States. I am very happy to be here in Milan. Thankyou for the opportunity you have offered me.) I also gave the club a magazine of photos of VA, a map of VA, and a banner from the Mechanicsville Rotary. They were very pleased and I didn't even feel too horrible about my Italian.

Things to come:
On Thursday I meet with my counselor at my high school here in Milan. She is an English teacher and I think that I will be placed in Linguistics. Also, on Saturday there is a District Rotary meeting and the other exchange students and I will tour the city. I believe on Sunday we take a trip to the mountains. I am very excited!

Home Life:
I am beginning to feel more and more comfortable with my host family. Did I mention that I am now the tallest? Marco bounces when he laughs and is very helpful. Marina is always trying to improve her English with me and it is helpful to me because we end up repeating everything in the two languages so we both learn. Daniele is funny to me, I like to listen to his Italian because I can hear many common feelings (exasperation, embarrassment, indignation) of teenagers with their parents, even if I do not understand what he is saying- I understand how he says it. Also, there is the 80 year old grandmother. She does not live here but is here often. She is the only one who does not speak English and I already love her very much. The fact that she doesn't speak English does not stop her from talking to me constantly and she often touches and kisses me. Marina says that she goes dancing twice a week, talks to everyone, and easily gets lost in the city. It is dangerous, but she is often here on the couch doing needlepoint. The Politi's also have women who come to help clean and cook, especially on days when both Marina and Marco work. It is different for me, but they are all very nice it is like a bigger family.

OK enough, I have dinner!

Arrival

2008-09-08T05:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my host family (Marco, Marina, and Daniele) picked me up from the airport. I was so excited to be here but at the same time completely exhausted! The family is incredibly nice. Their English is very good, but I hope that we only use it for beginning and emergency understanding. I hope that they will speak Italian even if it confuses me. I am much better at listening than speaking at this point. I can recognize words that sound similar to Spanish, etc, but I do not know many Italian verbs and conjugations so I end up nodding and smiling much more than talking. Last night we arrived at the house and they showed me my room. They have four levels (including the basement- where I am now). It is most similiar to what is most like a townhouse in America, I think. It is not very wide, but tall. The ceilings are very high, and they have beautiful windows and high doors everywhere. They have a very small backyard that I can look down on from my room on the second floor. Once they showed me around the house, I showered and we ate dinner. I met two of Anna's friends although I cannot remember their names right now. I was pretty much half-conscious during dinner. I slept like a baby and I feel much better today. I'm not sure whether jetlag will be a problem since I had not slept for such a long time before I arrived. This morning Marco took me to the bank and the post office. There are many banks. I exchanged my dollars for euros. I think I will have a lot of fun getting to know Milan.

Enough for now,
Grace

DEPARTURE

2008-09-06T06:59:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

Right now I'm sitting in the lobby of a hotel 7 miles from the Dulles Airport. I'm shocked to be here. After waiting for this day for so long, it's almost bizarre to realize this is it! I'm leaving TODAY. The weather situation with all the tropical storms made us change plans a bit and drive up to D.C. yesterday, instead of getting stuck in the bad weather and traffic this morning. Although I didn't get to go to the first PH football game and see my friends one last time, I am glad that I have plenty of time to get ready this morning. As for getting to the airport, I will be as early as two early birds at an early bird concert. So to all my chums- I love you all to pieces, and I'm sorry but goodbyes are really quite overrated. They make me cry. Enough said. I am so excited and happy for these upcoming 10 months, but leaving is emotional. I'm drinking a lot of chamomile tea in hopes that my nerves calm. The butterflies in my stomach feel like they are gnawing. I am so happy, sad, and almost feverish at the same time. I find the most comfort in knowing that there are no more preparations, that my check list is done, and that all that is left is actually leaving. Not to mention the fact that I don't feel the least bit alone, with Rotary on both sides of the Atlantic. :) Wish me luck!

Love,
Grace

p.s. My flight is not delayed- at least not YET.

#1

2008-08-04T13:07:00.000-07:00

Hello There!

It's introduction time, so if you know me personally feel free to skip this next paragraph.

My name is Grace. I'm 16 years old and I have lived in Virginia for my entire life. Between my four older brothers, my parents, and my fabulous friends there is plenty of love and laughter to go around. My town is small, and likes it that way. They definitely attempted to hide the Walmart ;). And if this was like any other August, you'd most likely find me in the parking lot of my high school, marching in the heat along with my colorguard as the new marching band season begins. But it's not just any August. This August, I'm leaving. For the next 10 months I'll be living in Milan, Italy as a Rotary exchange student. If a "cyberpinch" existed, I'd ask for one. This is really a dream come true. I hope that this blog (which I will certainly try to maintain) will be helpful to anyone considering an exchange trip.

Ok. Now back to all you crazy cats I know. If you are family, a friend, or a Rotarian, my message is all the same: Grazie! Thank you so much for your help and support. I really couldn't ask for more people backing me up and helping me along. I am so grateful! I hope you all check in with me now and then, and I am sure I will have plenty to fill you in on.

Ciao! ;)

Grace