Another post for today, but I can't stop praising the Lord. He is too good to me...He put me in His place in Florence where he wanted me to find community. It's a little meeting on Tuesday nights at the Methodist church where people, mainly students, come to worship the Lord and read scripture, hear a sermon, and discuss. And so much fellowship!
Tonight, it opened up with Psalm 84 - the first psalm on which I gave a lesson in Sunday School this summer - and the Lord used it to call me to Him, and showed me my need to be in his dwelling place. "How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, indeed it faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God." I read these words tonight, and singing them in the hymn was definitely the appropriate response!
We read from Jeremiah, reminding us of our failings but that God is faithful, and his covenant with his people is sure. Then, we read from Luke 18, and talked about the tax collector's prayer, "God, be merciful to me, a sinner!" We prayed throughout, and we discussed the passages after hearing a sermon. The people were so real and honest, and they truly understood the gospel. Their priority was to give reverence to the Lord!
I'm just so happy to find this, to find this time that I can be committed to, to meet cool people who love the Lord, to know their names and have them know mine.
I met two girls doing a masters program in shoe design, Molly and Myra, and they were really sweet. I then met a girl a little older named Kate, whom I loved. She was down to earth and beautiful, and she and her husband are going to Barcelona this weekend as well! They're in Europe for a year taking a break; she's a doctor and he's a musician. His name is Mark Shultz - he gave me a hug tonight although I don't know him, haha. But, he's pretty well-known in the States. He led the music tonight, along with another man who played the piano and had an amazing voice. We stood and worshipped, and it was informal but reverent at the same time. I'll definitely be going back. Unfortunately I had a coughing attack and almost had to leave - spiritual warfare?
We sang "Grace Alone" and I'm so convinced this was necessary for me to hear. I've been really self-focused, very prideful since I've come to Italy. I've wanted to do all of this for ME and to do only what I wanted. I've thought I've known best, and I've treated others poorly because of my pride. Even without realizing it!
But, this hymn points me to my Maker, the one who has a purpose for me and will use me to be an instrument in his redemption of the earth. Here are some of the lyrics:
"Every promise we can make, every prayer and step of faith,
every difference we will make is only by his grace...
Grace alone which God supplies,
strength unknown he will provide.
Christ in us our Cornerstone
We will go forth in grace alone."
And it was by his grace I've been brought to the magical land of Italy, and it's by his grace I was brought to this service tonight. And my response to that is worship, awe, and to love my neighbor as God has shown his undeserved love for me.
Just had to share what God laid on my heart this evening, and rejoice in finding a church body!
Firenze, Italia
The Ponte Vecchio (the Old Bridge) in Florence across the Arno River. This bridge is about two blocks away from my apartment.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Home Remedies
Sadly, I'm still sick.
I haven't wanted to do much, and I finally made myself get up and out of the house today. I printed off my boarding passes for Barcelona, and while I was there, I saw my crazy Italian teacher Nada.
Then, I decided to return some cds to the library because they won't work on my computer - different cd size (one was The Beach Boys' "Pet Sounds"). BUT, I wandered around a deserted library before realizing it opens at two on Mondays. Lame.
So, I continued walking around the Duomo area, and I started to get a fever. I was all bundled up, but the chills were coming, and alllll I wanted was a cold drink. Whenever I'm sick at home, I stay in my bed and drink a nice coke from a straw. Perfection. Well, I stopped in a supermarket, grabbed a coke can, impatiently waiting in line after people who had bundles, and I only had my coke and exact change. I opened it in the store, then proceeded to sip and walk down the street.
I walked by and a man, probably in his 40s, began to talk to me. As I am sick, I gave up all attempts of speaking in Italian, and said, "What?" in English.
"Ohhhh, parla inglese?"
"Siiiii."
"A Londra?"
"No, di America. Di Georgia, but I'm a little sick so you may not be able to tell."
"Che cosa?"
"Sono male."
The European culture loves home remedies. The man told me that if I came back that night, around seven when he is about to get off work, he would take me to the bar and we would drink some special drink and in the morning, POOF! my sickness would be gone. This was a remedy handed down by his grandfather. I politely said I may, but I had other plans.
We continued to talk for quite a while, and he complimented me on my teeth. I laughed loudly. I was drinking a coke, so I told him "ma gialla si io bevo questa coca!" I have never been complimented on my teeth by a stranger. Really creepy. He asked me another question, which was lost in translation, so he went to his computer, went to his online translator, and started saying "treat!" "treat!" and then pressed the button so the robotic voice from the speakers shouted "TREAT" in English. He did this several more times. "TREAT. TREAT. TREAT. TREAT." I had to laugh but tried not to seem like I was laughing at him.
He kept telling me to come back at seven last night, but of course, I'd rather not put myself in an odd position with a bald, Italian man who likes my teeth.
When the library opened, I handed in my cds and rented some more books: Saturday by Ian McEwan and a book called Speaking Italian Like A Native, which is just a collection of essays from a British man who has lived in Italy for twelve years.
One of my favorite authors is essayist Anne Fadiman (READ ANYTHING YOU CAN FIND BY HER! SHE'S AN EXCELLENT WRITER AND INTIMIDATINGLY WELL-READ). She writes a chapter on reading where you are - absorbing yourself in a book that is placed wherever you are so that you can deeper appreciate your present setting. I think it's a great idea, and it gives me more awareness of the Italian culture around me.
Annnnyway, I got home and Olga, our Slovakian housekeeper, came by soon after. Jess walked in and had a bad case of the hiccups. Olga ran up the stairs, poured a cup of water, and told Jess she was going to fix her problem. She then forced Jess to lean down towards her feet, put her hands behind her back, and Olga shoved the cup of water in her face. Similar to water boarding. Joke. But it worked! Olga cracks me up. She's very blunt but works very hard. She told us her sister is a singer and uses that remedy every time she has to go on stage.
Other than that, I've just caught up on emails, read, and had two cups of tea today. I'm still trying to get better and relax before I travel for a little over five days. Ayyy!
Going to try out a Methodist church tonight at seven. Pray for me!
I haven't wanted to do much, and I finally made myself get up and out of the house today. I printed off my boarding passes for Barcelona, and while I was there, I saw my crazy Italian teacher Nada.
Then, I decided to return some cds to the library because they won't work on my computer - different cd size (one was The Beach Boys' "Pet Sounds"). BUT, I wandered around a deserted library before realizing it opens at two on Mondays. Lame.
So, I continued walking around the Duomo area, and I started to get a fever. I was all bundled up, but the chills were coming, and alllll I wanted was a cold drink. Whenever I'm sick at home, I stay in my bed and drink a nice coke from a straw. Perfection. Well, I stopped in a supermarket, grabbed a coke can, impatiently waiting in line after people who had bundles, and I only had my coke and exact change. I opened it in the store, then proceeded to sip and walk down the street.
I walked by and a man, probably in his 40s, began to talk to me. As I am sick, I gave up all attempts of speaking in Italian, and said, "What?" in English.
"Ohhhh, parla inglese?"
"Siiiii."
"A Londra?"
"No, di America. Di Georgia, but I'm a little sick so you may not be able to tell."
"Che cosa?"
"Sono male."
The European culture loves home remedies. The man told me that if I came back that night, around seven when he is about to get off work, he would take me to the bar and we would drink some special drink and in the morning, POOF! my sickness would be gone. This was a remedy handed down by his grandfather. I politely said I may, but I had other plans.
We continued to talk for quite a while, and he complimented me on my teeth. I laughed loudly. I was drinking a coke, so I told him "ma gialla si io bevo questa coca!" I have never been complimented on my teeth by a stranger. Really creepy. He asked me another question, which was lost in translation, so he went to his computer, went to his online translator, and started saying "treat!" "treat!" and then pressed the button so the robotic voice from the speakers shouted "TREAT" in English. He did this several more times. "TREAT. TREAT. TREAT. TREAT." I had to laugh but tried not to seem like I was laughing at him.
He kept telling me to come back at seven last night, but of course, I'd rather not put myself in an odd position with a bald, Italian man who likes my teeth.
When the library opened, I handed in my cds and rented some more books: Saturday by Ian McEwan and a book called Speaking Italian Like A Native, which is just a collection of essays from a British man who has lived in Italy for twelve years.
One of my favorite authors is essayist Anne Fadiman (READ ANYTHING YOU CAN FIND BY HER! SHE'S AN EXCELLENT WRITER AND INTIMIDATINGLY WELL-READ). She writes a chapter on reading where you are - absorbing yourself in a book that is placed wherever you are so that you can deeper appreciate your present setting. I think it's a great idea, and it gives me more awareness of the Italian culture around me.
Annnnyway, I got home and Olga, our Slovakian housekeeper, came by soon after. Jess walked in and had a bad case of the hiccups. Olga ran up the stairs, poured a cup of water, and told Jess she was going to fix her problem. She then forced Jess to lean down towards her feet, put her hands behind her back, and Olga shoved the cup of water in her face. Similar to water boarding. Joke. But it worked! Olga cracks me up. She's very blunt but works very hard. She told us her sister is a singer and uses that remedy every time she has to go on stage.
Other than that, I've just caught up on emails, read, and had two cups of tea today. I'm still trying to get better and relax before I travel for a little over five days. Ayyy!
Going to try out a Methodist church tonight at seven. Pray for me!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Finiamo a Roma, e solo adesso ho male di gola!
Briefly, briefly.
I often say those words but get caught up in the maelstrom of my mind. And then must type everything I think and have felt from the day.
Perhaps tonight I'll be brief?
Mom, Dad, and I exchanged hugs and kisses before they hopped in their cab to the airport in Rome this morning. An abrupt ending to a blissful week or so together. After their door shut, I continued up the hill from our hotel, looking backwards to make sure they were finally off. I climbed the hill, took a few pictures of the sites..Rome's beauty creeps up on you! And continued walking past the President's house until I stumbled upon the Barberini National Gallery of Art "Antica." Well, I'm not quite sure what this is, but it's open. I walked in, found my way to the ticket office (biglietteria), and handed the man a fifty euro bill for the five euro fee. "Una cinquanta? No. Troppo grande." I laughed, told him it was the only bill I had, he shrugged and gave me a ticket for free. "Really? YOU ARE SO KIND." That sent him cracking up, and he repeated my words.
I had to wait a few more minutes until the rest of the "sale" or rooms were open, and then another woman and I headed in. Every person there was Italian, and I was flattered that they spoke to me in Italian as well. I nodded and smiled even though I understood little.
The museum was fabulous! I saw Raffaelo, Carravaggio, Fillipo Lippi, Titian, Pietro di Cortona, and many more.
Then, I sauntered out and headed towards the Spanish Steps. My goal for my Roman morning on my own: visit the Keats and Shelley museum. I reached the door, but unfortunately it didn't open for another hour or so. I decided to grab a cappuccino and read while waiting.
I found a cafe overlooking the Spanish Steps with a view of the museum so I could see when the doors opened. The prices for coffee were outrageous. I spent the money I would have on the museum in that quiet corner of the upstairs restaurant. I sat in the window in a table to myself with a beautiful vista, delicious cappuccino, and delightful book, "My Life in France," by Julia Child. I'm STILL reading it, but I'm hanging on to her every sentence. I adore the woman and her writing style. I feel like we're kindred spirits. But she's more Type A than I am. We'd complement each other well.
A British woman came in, and of course, I watched her from the corner of my eye. She was curt with the waiter and barked out her order. It got worse. She ordered a coffee and a croissant (making sure to use a french accident, which the Japanese/Italian waiter could barely understand). She exhaled haughtily when he asked her to repeat the word. After nibbling on the pastry, she flagged the man down again, although he was busily waiting on several other tables. "This croissant is SWEET. I don't like it. I want a BUTTERY one." While french croissants ARE warm, flaky, buttery and savory, the Italian brioche are sweet, crisp, and rarely warm from the oven. Cultural differences, Miss Priss. The confused waiter simply took it away, and she rolled her eyes. Ruuuuuuude.
The museum doors open and I asked for my bill. The museum was headed by an American twenty-something and a stern British woman. I saw where Keats lived and died in Rome, as well as a few of his letters and original poems! Pretty cool.
Later I hopped on the metro, arrived at the train station, was helped by a gypsy when buying my train ticket, and finally got on a slow, four-hour train. I met some cool Canadian girls traveling to Florence, but they only wanted to know of a good club in town. Sigh.
Then, I went to the supermarket, made a fruit salad, and Olivia and Meredith came over for our much anticipated UGA vs. Kentucky tailgate! We made burgers on huge Italian rolls, potato chips, fruit salad, and juice. Oh, and the girls brought KETCHUP! What a surprise.
We chatted and laughed and talked about Fall Break plans. Olivia's boyfriend arrives tomorrow, and Meredith's mom comes on Monday. I was jealous that they will get to spend time with their loved ones while I had to say goodbye to mine today.
And now, Jess and I have chilled.
I'm getting a bit sick...coming down with a sore throat and losing my voice. Maybe a little fever, too. But, it's my Fall Break, and I don't leave for Barcelona until Wednesday! That leaves plenty of time to recuperate.
I want to stick around and sight-see Florence. There are still too many things on my bucket-list that are unchecked. I'd also love to pick up an Italian journal and start writing my own little recipe book. Other than that, it's sleep, cook, chat, and drink tea until my throat is soothed.
The past week has been marvelous, and I hope to finish uploading pictures tomorrow of my dear family. If only sissy Emily would visit.
A dopo!
I often say those words but get caught up in the maelstrom of my mind. And then must type everything I think and have felt from the day.
Perhaps tonight I'll be brief?
Mom, Dad, and I exchanged hugs and kisses before they hopped in their cab to the airport in Rome this morning. An abrupt ending to a blissful week or so together. After their door shut, I continued up the hill from our hotel, looking backwards to make sure they were finally off. I climbed the hill, took a few pictures of the sites..Rome's beauty creeps up on you! And continued walking past the President's house until I stumbled upon the Barberini National Gallery of Art "Antica." Well, I'm not quite sure what this is, but it's open. I walked in, found my way to the ticket office (biglietteria), and handed the man a fifty euro bill for the five euro fee. "Una cinquanta? No. Troppo grande." I laughed, told him it was the only bill I had, he shrugged and gave me a ticket for free. "Really? YOU ARE SO KIND." That sent him cracking up, and he repeated my words.
I had to wait a few more minutes until the rest of the "sale" or rooms were open, and then another woman and I headed in. Every person there was Italian, and I was flattered that they spoke to me in Italian as well. I nodded and smiled even though I understood little.
The museum was fabulous! I saw Raffaelo, Carravaggio, Fillipo Lippi, Titian, Pietro di Cortona, and many more.
Then, I sauntered out and headed towards the Spanish Steps. My goal for my Roman morning on my own: visit the Keats and Shelley museum. I reached the door, but unfortunately it didn't open for another hour or so. I decided to grab a cappuccino and read while waiting.
I found a cafe overlooking the Spanish Steps with a view of the museum so I could see when the doors opened. The prices for coffee were outrageous. I spent the money I would have on the museum in that quiet corner of the upstairs restaurant. I sat in the window in a table to myself with a beautiful vista, delicious cappuccino, and delightful book, "My Life in France," by Julia Child. I'm STILL reading it, but I'm hanging on to her every sentence. I adore the woman and her writing style. I feel like we're kindred spirits. But she's more Type A than I am. We'd complement each other well.
A British woman came in, and of course, I watched her from the corner of my eye. She was curt with the waiter and barked out her order. It got worse. She ordered a coffee and a croissant (making sure to use a french accident, which the Japanese/Italian waiter could barely understand). She exhaled haughtily when he asked her to repeat the word. After nibbling on the pastry, she flagged the man down again, although he was busily waiting on several other tables. "This croissant is SWEET. I don't like it. I want a BUTTERY one." While french croissants ARE warm, flaky, buttery and savory, the Italian brioche are sweet, crisp, and rarely warm from the oven. Cultural differences, Miss Priss. The confused waiter simply took it away, and she rolled her eyes. Ruuuuuuude.
The museum doors open and I asked for my bill. The museum was headed by an American twenty-something and a stern British woman. I saw where Keats lived and died in Rome, as well as a few of his letters and original poems! Pretty cool.
Later I hopped on the metro, arrived at the train station, was helped by a gypsy when buying my train ticket, and finally got on a slow, four-hour train. I met some cool Canadian girls traveling to Florence, but they only wanted to know of a good club in town. Sigh.
Then, I went to the supermarket, made a fruit salad, and Olivia and Meredith came over for our much anticipated UGA vs. Kentucky tailgate! We made burgers on huge Italian rolls, potato chips, fruit salad, and juice. Oh, and the girls brought KETCHUP! What a surprise.
We chatted and laughed and talked about Fall Break plans. Olivia's boyfriend arrives tomorrow, and Meredith's mom comes on Monday. I was jealous that they will get to spend time with their loved ones while I had to say goodbye to mine today.
And now, Jess and I have chilled.
I'm getting a bit sick...coming down with a sore throat and losing my voice. Maybe a little fever, too. But, it's my Fall Break, and I don't leave for Barcelona until Wednesday! That leaves plenty of time to recuperate.
I want to stick around and sight-see Florence. There are still too many things on my bucket-list that are unchecked. I'd also love to pick up an Italian journal and start writing my own little recipe book. Other than that, it's sleep, cook, chat, and drink tea until my throat is soothed.
The past week has been marvelous, and I hope to finish uploading pictures tomorrow of my dear family. If only sissy Emily would visit.
A dopo!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Domani, Vado a Roma!
Allora, vado a Roma domani con mie parenti. Whoop!
Other highlights:
While hanging out in the living room, I looked over my computer screen into the hallway. I saw something in the corner of my eye but legitimately thought I was dreaming something up. It was a cat! A fat, short-haired tabby cat had crawled in from our window in the bathroom and into our apartment! I let out a started little "Ohhhhh, guys!" and Leyla and Jess came running. It must've gone back out the window because we haven't seen it since. That or it's hiding under one of our beds. They said we weren't allowed to keep pets here, but...
Today I signed up for UGA classes...three English 4000's. I have to do it to graduate. I may die of exhaustion before I get there, though. Is there any way I can read the books NOW????? It's a little disheartening, because that means I'm really going to have to leave this lovely country. Weird.
Mom and Dad left this morning on a train to Roma. I hope they're loving it. Being away from them for a bit makes me miss them. Weird, huh. We've had a blast being together. Walking everywhere, laughing at each other, exploring the history of Italy, telling stories that we've missed from being on different continents. They're great people, and I'm grateful that I'm their child. I'm blessed!
We went out with my roommates Leyla and Jess last night to the restaurant RIGHT next to our apartment. It's called Trattoria Nella. Delizioso! We didn't have reservations so we had to wait a good bit, but it gave us more time to chat for my parents and my adoptive sisters to get to know each other. Ever stand back, aware that your two worlds are colliding? Mom and Dad loved the girls. But of course they did! They're so down to earth and mature, but they are hilarious and adventurous, too. The perfect roommates, really.
Today, after M & D left, I had another exam. Contemporary Italian Literature. It was pretty easy; a lot of opinion questions and essays on the general themes of books. Everything she said would be on there was. Plus, I've read everything, listened in class, and done my homework, so there isn't much else you can do to study for a lit class. So, I guess my studying very little while Mom and Dad were here didn't turn out as badly as I thought...but I still have another exam tomorrow.
It's Italian Language. It shouldn't be bad...mainly conjugating and a few irregular verbs. I understand it, so i haven't really looked over it either....Ohhh welllll. I took an online course thing before I came to Italy, so what we're learning is pretty much ingrained in my head. Alexi came over tonight and I coached him through what we'll need to study. He left a note and some of his AWESOME artwork at our door today and asked if we could study, but the note disappeared! Frantic Alexi needed some help and I didn't know. So, I went to aperitivo and then came back and got in my jammies...and that is when he decided to come over. I looked like a fool but it was a successful study sesh.
Aperitivo at GANZO was, of course, so great. I wasn't that hungry when I went but wanted to go for the fellowship time. Me, Meredith, Olivia, Alva, Kyle, and Ian ate together and dunh dunh dunh! talked politics. Kyle and Alva got on an Andrew Jackson/Trail of Tears joking debate, and Alva swears he'll burn a twenty dollar bill if he comes into contact with one (he's 1/32 Indian and has an aversion towards Jackson because of it). I'm happy to say that I am not as in the minority politically here as I had originally thought. Many more conversations to come, I hope.
My roommates are now talking about yeasts for their Wine Appreciation midterm tomorrow. Over my head.
Also, Jess, Nicole, Leyla and I watched "La Vita e Bella" or "Life Is Beautiful" in the ISA loft. It's one of the best movies I have EVER seen. I loved the actor's attitude towards his son and the movie was so fun, but so touching and real. And depressing at the same time. It's filmed in Arezzo, so I recognized all of the little streets and hills and porticos! I've never been able to do that in a movie before. All the ISA people were so sweet to us, too. They brought us chips and tea and set everything up for us. Wednesday tradition? Check.
I am now packed and will leave my exam tomorrow to board a train to Rome. I will spend two nights with Ma and Pa before heading back on Saturday for the UKY and UGA tailgate at Meredith, Olivia, and Sabrina's apartment! I can't wait!
I guess I better go to study a bit more before heading to bed...or watch an episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents. I've still been on my kick and my parents have joined me. Dad LOVES stuff like the Twilight Zone, but Mom hates anything that doesn't have a happy ending or is the least bit gory. They really have to compromise when they watch movies together.
Buona sera!
Other highlights:
While hanging out in the living room, I looked over my computer screen into the hallway. I saw something in the corner of my eye but legitimately thought I was dreaming something up. It was a cat! A fat, short-haired tabby cat had crawled in from our window in the bathroom and into our apartment! I let out a started little "Ohhhhh, guys!" and Leyla and Jess came running. It must've gone back out the window because we haven't seen it since. That or it's hiding under one of our beds. They said we weren't allowed to keep pets here, but...
Today I signed up for UGA classes...three English 4000's. I have to do it to graduate. I may die of exhaustion before I get there, though. Is there any way I can read the books NOW????? It's a little disheartening, because that means I'm really going to have to leave this lovely country. Weird.
Mom and Dad left this morning on a train to Roma. I hope they're loving it. Being away from them for a bit makes me miss them. Weird, huh. We've had a blast being together. Walking everywhere, laughing at each other, exploring the history of Italy, telling stories that we've missed from being on different continents. They're great people, and I'm grateful that I'm their child. I'm blessed!
We went out with my roommates Leyla and Jess last night to the restaurant RIGHT next to our apartment. It's called Trattoria Nella. Delizioso! We didn't have reservations so we had to wait a good bit, but it gave us more time to chat for my parents and my adoptive sisters to get to know each other. Ever stand back, aware that your two worlds are colliding? Mom and Dad loved the girls. But of course they did! They're so down to earth and mature, but they are hilarious and adventurous, too. The perfect roommates, really.
Today, after M & D left, I had another exam. Contemporary Italian Literature. It was pretty easy; a lot of opinion questions and essays on the general themes of books. Everything she said would be on there was. Plus, I've read everything, listened in class, and done my homework, so there isn't much else you can do to study for a lit class. So, I guess my studying very little while Mom and Dad were here didn't turn out as badly as I thought...but I still have another exam tomorrow.
It's Italian Language. It shouldn't be bad...mainly conjugating and a few irregular verbs. I understand it, so i haven't really looked over it either....Ohhh welllll. I took an online course thing before I came to Italy, so what we're learning is pretty much ingrained in my head. Alexi came over tonight and I coached him through what we'll need to study. He left a note and some of his AWESOME artwork at our door today and asked if we could study, but the note disappeared! Frantic Alexi needed some help and I didn't know. So, I went to aperitivo and then came back and got in my jammies...and that is when he decided to come over. I looked like a fool but it was a successful study sesh.
Aperitivo at GANZO was, of course, so great. I wasn't that hungry when I went but wanted to go for the fellowship time. Me, Meredith, Olivia, Alva, Kyle, and Ian ate together and dunh dunh dunh! talked politics. Kyle and Alva got on an Andrew Jackson/Trail of Tears joking debate, and Alva swears he'll burn a twenty dollar bill if he comes into contact with one (he's 1/32 Indian and has an aversion towards Jackson because of it). I'm happy to say that I am not as in the minority politically here as I had originally thought. Many more conversations to come, I hope.
My roommates are now talking about yeasts for their Wine Appreciation midterm tomorrow. Over my head.
Also, Jess, Nicole, Leyla and I watched "La Vita e Bella" or "Life Is Beautiful" in the ISA loft. It's one of the best movies I have EVER seen. I loved the actor's attitude towards his son and the movie was so fun, but so touching and real. And depressing at the same time. It's filmed in Arezzo, so I recognized all of the little streets and hills and porticos! I've never been able to do that in a movie before. All the ISA people were so sweet to us, too. They brought us chips and tea and set everything up for us. Wednesday tradition? Check.
I am now packed and will leave my exam tomorrow to board a train to Rome. I will spend two nights with Ma and Pa before heading back on Saturday for the UKY and UGA tailgate at Meredith, Olivia, and Sabrina's apartment! I can't wait!
I guess I better go to study a bit more before heading to bed...or watch an episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents. I've still been on my kick and my parents have joined me. Dad LOVES stuff like the Twilight Zone, but Mom hates anything that doesn't have a happy ending or is the least bit gory. They really have to compromise when they watch movies together.
Buona sera!
Monday, October 18, 2010
MOM AND DAD ARE IN FLORENCE!
Tomorrow I take my two hardest midterms, so I'll be brief.
Mom and Dad are here! And I'm bunking up and spending the night with them.
We've spent every waking moment together for the past two/three days. It's been fabulous! It's so surreal that I get to take them around on my cobblestone streets and lead them to my favorite spots in Florence. I love seeing them enjoy the things that have become so dear to my heart...and my growing up.
They're exhausted but having a great time. Mom takes a while to adjust to the time change. About an hour ago she started getting REALLY hyper because it's the time of day back in the States that she comes alive. I'm sure right now she's laying in bed staring at the ceiling wishing she could sleep.
Venice was GORGEOUS. I'd love to say it's my favorite, but each city is so "particular," to use a word Italians love. San Marco's Basilica, its square, the Correr Museum, the Doges' palace, the Bridge of Sighs, ahhhhh. I love it all! Being by the water makes the city more magical (although I'm sure it'd be tiresome to live with the flooding year-round!). If you get the chance, GO! Don't listen to what people say about it being dirty or smelly...it's full of history and beauty and its the most unique city I've ever visited.
We came to Florence yesterday and toured my apartment - they loved my windows, my vaulted ceilings, my Florentine cabinets. Then, we met up with my friend Garrett, who is studying in Milan, and we all took a walking tour of Piazza Signoria, Repubblica, and the Duomo at night. There are a fraction of the crowds and everything is lit up perfectly. They loved it! We stopped by my apartment to grab a tub of peanut butter (yes, M&D brought me JIF from home--such a delicacy!) and stumbled upon Jess and Alexi! They were meeting up with some more of our friends after a day of SKYDIVING over Arrezzo. And yes, my friends actually jumped out of a plane. I'm so impressed. I love how full of life they are. Mom and Dad loved to meet them, too. They were so happy to get to see my friends and listen to their crazy stories. I can't wait for them to meet my other roommate, Leyla, next! They were still raving today about how much fun Jess seemed. And she is!
So, today we went to a service at the Anglican English-speaking church, St. Mark's, and then decided to get lunch...all my usual places were closed. Dang. We walked around forever, I became frustrated because I wanted my parents to enjoy Tuscan food, and we finally decided to just go into a restaurant. They asked if we had a reservation, we said no, they said it'd be thirty minutes, then ran back and told us they had an opening in the back. Well, sure, we'll take it. This place loved food. The server told us to not even bother about the menu, he would tell us what was good. So, we ordered an antipasto with the creamiest cheese (burrata, similar to the Italian word for butter, "burro"), endives, cherry tomatoes, and arugula, and each got pasta for our entree. I had gnocchi with pear and gorgonzola. To die for! Mom and Garrett had tagliotelli with mushrooms and truffles, and Daddy had wild boar on parpadelle. Everything was so good, and pasta was SO FRESH! We loved our special Tuscan lunch.
We then headed to Santa Croce (where Michaelangelo, DaVinci, Machiavelli, and more famous Florentines are buried!) to admire the frescoes by Giotto and look at all of the ornate tombs. So crazy. There is a beautiful courtyard as well, and I took some good pics.
Thennnnnnnn we headed to the Duomo for a bit, then decided we needed to head home so Garrett could catch a train back to Milan. That and we were tired from walking everywhere. We found another sweet little church on the way home. Beautifully ornate and intimate.
At the flat, Gare made some PB sandwiches to take back with him on the train, and I got to study a bit. Mom and Dad took naps. We then led him to the train station, put him on the train, and walked around for a bit.
I love to brag on my dad. The man. knows. everything. He's researched every bit of Florence and even rented a flat for a half a week that is ONE street over, almost DIRECTLY where my apartment is located. The flat is wonderful! So homey, big, has a pullout sofa that I can't figure out, a stove, and ta-da: a washer AND dryer! Only the rich folks have room/money for a dryer...everyone else just hangs up their clothes on clotheslines. This machine does the wash then right after does the drying cycle. Best invention ever. Now my clothes smell like watermelon instead of mildew. Sighhhhhh.
We met an Italian couple at the apartment first, and there was a bit of a language barrier. Everything is stocked, though, and they even had Tuscan wine and cantucci for us! How sweet. We have fresh fruit, coffee, juice, water, a microwave, a toaster, and it's a piece of heaven. Thank you, Daddy.
Oh, and to my Florentine friends, let me rub this in: In Venice, I took A BATH. Ohhhh it was lovely. I just laid there and let the water fill all the way around me. Glorioussssss. It's the little things, you know?
Walking home after putting G on the train, we started getting a craving...for Chinese food. I kid you not, we ate tonight at a place called "China Town," and it was DELICIOUS. I've craved an eggroll ever since I left Georgia, and tonight, my craving was satiated.
Tomorrow is full of class for me, but Mom and Dad are touring all over the city for the next two days. We'll have an early lunch at my favorite panini place, I'll head to class, take and Italian Renaissance History exam, then take a cooking exam, cook something with swiss chard (our ingredient of the week), and hopefully come and crash at Mom and Dad's place. We're planning to get gelato tomorrow night; we'll try out a new gelateria. We had gelato last night, and the woman remembered me. We're pretty much best friends now. We even got a discount. I'm such a regular. At the gelateria. Maybe that's a bad thing.
Daddy had "blood orange" gelato, and he loved every bit. Mom had berry yogurt (typical) and adored hers, and Garrett had cookies and a chocolate sorbet. I had panna cotta and berry yogurt. Perfect. We licked it up and kept touring the town.
Ahhhh, I better go to sleep now. I get up in 8 hours! Yay!
Sorry for not writing for a while; you know how it is...Midterms, parents coming, trains...craziness. Hope you all are well!
And GO DAWGS!
Mom and Dad are here! And I'm bunking up and spending the night with them.
We've spent every waking moment together for the past two/three days. It's been fabulous! It's so surreal that I get to take them around on my cobblestone streets and lead them to my favorite spots in Florence. I love seeing them enjoy the things that have become so dear to my heart...and my growing up.
They're exhausted but having a great time. Mom takes a while to adjust to the time change. About an hour ago she started getting REALLY hyper because it's the time of day back in the States that she comes alive. I'm sure right now she's laying in bed staring at the ceiling wishing she could sleep.
Venice was GORGEOUS. I'd love to say it's my favorite, but each city is so "particular," to use a word Italians love. San Marco's Basilica, its square, the Correr Museum, the Doges' palace, the Bridge of Sighs, ahhhhh. I love it all! Being by the water makes the city more magical (although I'm sure it'd be tiresome to live with the flooding year-round!). If you get the chance, GO! Don't listen to what people say about it being dirty or smelly...it's full of history and beauty and its the most unique city I've ever visited.
We came to Florence yesterday and toured my apartment - they loved my windows, my vaulted ceilings, my Florentine cabinets. Then, we met up with my friend Garrett, who is studying in Milan, and we all took a walking tour of Piazza Signoria, Repubblica, and the Duomo at night. There are a fraction of the crowds and everything is lit up perfectly. They loved it! We stopped by my apartment to grab a tub of peanut butter (yes, M&D brought me JIF from home--such a delicacy!) and stumbled upon Jess and Alexi! They were meeting up with some more of our friends after a day of SKYDIVING over Arrezzo. And yes, my friends actually jumped out of a plane. I'm so impressed. I love how full of life they are. Mom and Dad loved to meet them, too. They were so happy to get to see my friends and listen to their crazy stories. I can't wait for them to meet my other roommate, Leyla, next! They were still raving today about how much fun Jess seemed. And she is!
So, today we went to a service at the Anglican English-speaking church, St. Mark's, and then decided to get lunch...all my usual places were closed. Dang. We walked around forever, I became frustrated because I wanted my parents to enjoy Tuscan food, and we finally decided to just go into a restaurant. They asked if we had a reservation, we said no, they said it'd be thirty minutes, then ran back and told us they had an opening in the back. Well, sure, we'll take it. This place loved food. The server told us to not even bother about the menu, he would tell us what was good. So, we ordered an antipasto with the creamiest cheese (burrata, similar to the Italian word for butter, "burro"), endives, cherry tomatoes, and arugula, and each got pasta for our entree. I had gnocchi with pear and gorgonzola. To die for! Mom and Garrett had tagliotelli with mushrooms and truffles, and Daddy had wild boar on parpadelle. Everything was so good, and pasta was SO FRESH! We loved our special Tuscan lunch.
We then headed to Santa Croce (where Michaelangelo, DaVinci, Machiavelli, and more famous Florentines are buried!) to admire the frescoes by Giotto and look at all of the ornate tombs. So crazy. There is a beautiful courtyard as well, and I took some good pics.
Thennnnnnnn we headed to the Duomo for a bit, then decided we needed to head home so Garrett could catch a train back to Milan. That and we were tired from walking everywhere. We found another sweet little church on the way home. Beautifully ornate and intimate.
At the flat, Gare made some PB sandwiches to take back with him on the train, and I got to study a bit. Mom and Dad took naps. We then led him to the train station, put him on the train, and walked around for a bit.
I love to brag on my dad. The man. knows. everything. He's researched every bit of Florence and even rented a flat for a half a week that is ONE street over, almost DIRECTLY where my apartment is located. The flat is wonderful! So homey, big, has a pullout sofa that I can't figure out, a stove, and ta-da: a washer AND dryer! Only the rich folks have room/money for a dryer...everyone else just hangs up their clothes on clotheslines. This machine does the wash then right after does the drying cycle. Best invention ever. Now my clothes smell like watermelon instead of mildew. Sighhhhhh.
We met an Italian couple at the apartment first, and there was a bit of a language barrier. Everything is stocked, though, and they even had Tuscan wine and cantucci for us! How sweet. We have fresh fruit, coffee, juice, water, a microwave, a toaster, and it's a piece of heaven. Thank you, Daddy.
Oh, and to my Florentine friends, let me rub this in: In Venice, I took A BATH. Ohhhh it was lovely. I just laid there and let the water fill all the way around me. Glorioussssss. It's the little things, you know?
Walking home after putting G on the train, we started getting a craving...for Chinese food. I kid you not, we ate tonight at a place called "China Town," and it was DELICIOUS. I've craved an eggroll ever since I left Georgia, and tonight, my craving was satiated.
Tomorrow is full of class for me, but Mom and Dad are touring all over the city for the next two days. We'll have an early lunch at my favorite panini place, I'll head to class, take and Italian Renaissance History exam, then take a cooking exam, cook something with swiss chard (our ingredient of the week), and hopefully come and crash at Mom and Dad's place. We're planning to get gelato tomorrow night; we'll try out a new gelateria. We had gelato last night, and the woman remembered me. We're pretty much best friends now. We even got a discount. I'm such a regular. At the gelateria. Maybe that's a bad thing.
Daddy had "blood orange" gelato, and he loved every bit. Mom had berry yogurt (typical) and adored hers, and Garrett had cookies and a chocolate sorbet. I had panna cotta and berry yogurt. Perfect. We licked it up and kept touring the town.
Ahhhh, I better go to sleep now. I get up in 8 hours! Yay!
Sorry for not writing for a while; you know how it is...Midterms, parents coming, trains...craziness. Hope you all are well!
And GO DAWGS!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
A Protestant in Catholic Heartland? Hitchcocked! and LAW.
I'm living the life.
It hit me today that this is probably the best time of my life.
It makes me want to become an advocate of study abroad.
When else can I just live in another country, learn about it's culture, find things I'm interested in, and simply pursue knowledge?
It's beautiful. Simply bellissime.
I just got home from the Florence Cathedral's Sir Thomas More Society Social Dinner at a restaurant called Il Gatto E Il Volpe. Finally, a dose of community. I went with Olivia, and we met so many new, interesting people who love God. And they're fun, too! So rare. The dinner was delicious; for the first time since I've arrived in Italy I had authentic spaghetti with ragu! The noodles were so fresh and the ragu was to die for. Mmmmmmm. And the meal? Only 8 euros TOTAL.
Funny enough, Jess, Nicole, and two other of our friends walked by while we were sitting at the window enjoying our meal. They ran back by once they saw Olivia and me, and we had a hilarious conversation with our hands through the glass. Love those girls.
I'm really glad we went. As ALL of you know, I'm not Catholic, and didn't know what to do when they said a "Hail Mary" at the end. But, talking about keeping the foundational truths of the gospel in the forefront of our spiritual lives and having solid conversations about Christianity was refreshing, I must admit. This was my first taste of community, and I know it was God-given and meant to focus my eyes back on Jesus.
There is a trip to Rome with the bishop, who is apparently awesome, and plans to have mass in St. Peter's Basilica and the like. I'd love to go, but I'm not sure if it would be acceptable for a non-Catholic to participate. I want to be very respectful, and even more so since it is in the Vatican. Thoughts?
I've been keeping it easy lately, and unfortunately haven't branched out much into my city in the past week. Tomorrow, I have to go pick up tickets for Venice to meet my parents on Friday, and I'm hoping to get to go to the Medici Chapel and see where the famous patrons are buried. Wicked cool.
Honestly, whenever it gets dark and I can't go outside by myself, I've been watching Alfred Hitchcock non-stop. I'm a bit obsessed. I've watched "Notorious" with Ingrid Bergman and Carey Grant, "Alfred Hitchcock Presents," "Hitchcocked!" the documentary, and now I'm almost finished with "Rebecca." It's chilling but the suspense is so addicting. I'm overtaken by his brilliance and ability to pull the audience's heartstrings. Hitchcock is a genius.
Other than that, today was my class on "Stowaway on Board," so we got to talk about women's rights and the way women use/view their bodies. I had a male friend in the class so it was fun to hear his point of view as well. My eyes are open to the fact that I can think on my own. I don't have to let anyone else tell me what truth is when I am just as capable of perceiving it. I could go on into a schpeel, but I decided against it.
I've pretty much decided I want to go to law school for either mediation law or international law. I just joined an international society at UGA, and I feel that the Lord is calling me to use the many experiences I have had here to broaden my horizons and to love and help people of all nations. I talked to a friend, Ben, who is in law school, and he supports my decision. I love law and want to do something to benefit the rest of the world - redeem creation, if you will. It's scary...and it means I'll have to work hard to graduate. But if this is what I'm created for, I am more than happy to work for it.
It hit me today that this is probably the best time of my life.
It makes me want to become an advocate of study abroad.
When else can I just live in another country, learn about it's culture, find things I'm interested in, and simply pursue knowledge?
It's beautiful. Simply bellissime.
I just got home from the Florence Cathedral's Sir Thomas More Society Social Dinner at a restaurant called Il Gatto E Il Volpe. Finally, a dose of community. I went with Olivia, and we met so many new, interesting people who love God. And they're fun, too! So rare. The dinner was delicious; for the first time since I've arrived in Italy I had authentic spaghetti with ragu! The noodles were so fresh and the ragu was to die for. Mmmmmmm. And the meal? Only 8 euros TOTAL.
Funny enough, Jess, Nicole, and two other of our friends walked by while we were sitting at the window enjoying our meal. They ran back by once they saw Olivia and me, and we had a hilarious conversation with our hands through the glass. Love those girls.
I'm really glad we went. As ALL of you know, I'm not Catholic, and didn't know what to do when they said a "Hail Mary" at the end. But, talking about keeping the foundational truths of the gospel in the forefront of our spiritual lives and having solid conversations about Christianity was refreshing, I must admit. This was my first taste of community, and I know it was God-given and meant to focus my eyes back on Jesus.
There is a trip to Rome with the bishop, who is apparently awesome, and plans to have mass in St. Peter's Basilica and the like. I'd love to go, but I'm not sure if it would be acceptable for a non-Catholic to participate. I want to be very respectful, and even more so since it is in the Vatican. Thoughts?
I've been keeping it easy lately, and unfortunately haven't branched out much into my city in the past week. Tomorrow, I have to go pick up tickets for Venice to meet my parents on Friday, and I'm hoping to get to go to the Medici Chapel and see where the famous patrons are buried. Wicked cool.
Honestly, whenever it gets dark and I can't go outside by myself, I've been watching Alfred Hitchcock non-stop. I'm a bit obsessed. I've watched "Notorious" with Ingrid Bergman and Carey Grant, "Alfred Hitchcock Presents," "Hitchcocked!" the documentary, and now I'm almost finished with "Rebecca." It's chilling but the suspense is so addicting. I'm overtaken by his brilliance and ability to pull the audience's heartstrings. Hitchcock is a genius.
Other than that, today was my class on "Stowaway on Board," so we got to talk about women's rights and the way women use/view their bodies. I had a male friend in the class so it was fun to hear his point of view as well. My eyes are open to the fact that I can think on my own. I don't have to let anyone else tell me what truth is when I am just as capable of perceiving it. I could go on into a schpeel, but I decided against it.
I've pretty much decided I want to go to law school for either mediation law or international law. I just joined an international society at UGA, and I feel that the Lord is calling me to use the many experiences I have had here to broaden my horizons and to love and help people of all nations. I talked to a friend, Ben, who is in law school, and he supports my decision. I love law and want to do something to benefit the rest of the world - redeem creation, if you will. It's scary...and it means I'll have to work hard to graduate. But if this is what I'm created for, I am more than happy to work for it.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Assisi and a Dinner Party in Florence
A succession of fantastic days has just occurred in Italy.
Sunday was a two hour bus ride to Assisi, a small town on top of a hill in the province of Umbria. It has so much personality! When you hear the word Assisi, you probably think of St. Francis. He's the first person to have received the stigmata, and he preached peace and a life of poverty (while giving everything one had to the poor - he started the Franciscan order). What I loved about him is that he took literally what the Bible said about preaching the gospel to all the creatures of the earth, so there is a famous fresco of him preaching to the birds who gathered around him to listen to his message.
Assisi has two huge fortresses where you can visit and lookout onto the valley below, where St. Francis of Assisi actually lived. He was born and I think died in Assisi, but the church in the valley is where he spent his adulthood. The buildings have a beautiful grayish brick that is EXACTLY what one thinks of when they envision a sweet European village. Adorable vines spread out over the building fronts, and little flower pots hang over the windowsills. Take me backkkkkk. The Duomo is amazinggggg, and you can see the crypt and ALSO some remains of the first church there underneath a glass flooring. Or maybe that was a different church. I'm forgetting now. Anyway, in front of St. Francis's church, there are three huge shrubberies cut into the letters "PAX" which means "Peace" in Italian. I definitely took a picture there.
The bus ride home was excruciating. Traffic was horrid, the people on the back of the bus were obnoxious and immature, and I couldn't fall asleep.
When we got back, Jess, Landon and I got some gelato and then came back to the apartment and chilled. Leyla was there and Alexi showed up as well. He spent his day in the pit section of the local Maserati race. No big deal. The guy has so many insane stories.
Today, Landon was going to come to do his laundry at our place, so we suggested that he just come right on up because the building isn't locked while Ricardo is here. Well, because Landon didn't speak Italian, Ricardo didn't recognize him and was confused, and eventually he made Landon leave. Miscommunication.
I spent my day in two classes (six hours total), and we visited the Medici palace in History of the Italian Renaissance. I bought a gala apple at the grocery store for lunch, and while "gloving - up" an Italian man tried to make a joke with me about his "insalta" and I laughed and nodded. It was obvious I had no clue what he was saying. I felt a little guilty. But inwardly I am thrilled that he assumed I was an Italiana. Success!
Then I headed to cooking class. Made "Taglione con salsa di noci" - not sure if I spelled that right - which is just a pasta with walnut sauce. Yummmm. Very light and yeah, not that much flavor. But it's all about appreciating the ingredients and the art of making it. Right? Anyway, we added salt and parmigiano regiano cheese to it. Such Americans. Then we had the other groups' "torta de nonna" which was TO DIE FOR. A Florentine specialty. Askkk if you want recipessss.
When I got home, Jess and I went to the grocery store and showed Landon the bureaucracy of the Italian cheese and bread queues. Then we went home, and I acted as Jess's sous chef. Our three course meal with Jess, Leyla, Alexi, Landon, and me, consisted of crab-meat stuffed mushrooms, rosemary schiattara (something like that...it's similar to focaccia bread), and balsamic chicken on top of a bed of rice (to say balsamic chicken oversimplifies the whole dish...it had onions, garlic, rosemary, tons of other stuff...and was plated beautifully with a raspberry, rosemary sprig, and balsamic glaze. sigh. I'll put up pictures on Facebook!).
Then, we went to get gelato and ate it while overlooking the Ponte Vecchio at night. It shimmered and glimmered and made you smile while sighing. Perfect.
And, now I will go because my skype date with Micah is over. It's always sad to end a conversation with my love.
Mom and Dad come to Italy in four days. INCONCEIVABLE! I can't wait. I know Daddy has it all planned out, and I've got a few ideas of my own. So fabulous.
G'night, g'night!
Sunday was a two hour bus ride to Assisi, a small town on top of a hill in the province of Umbria. It has so much personality! When you hear the word Assisi, you probably think of St. Francis. He's the first person to have received the stigmata, and he preached peace and a life of poverty (while giving everything one had to the poor - he started the Franciscan order). What I loved about him is that he took literally what the Bible said about preaching the gospel to all the creatures of the earth, so there is a famous fresco of him preaching to the birds who gathered around him to listen to his message.
Assisi has two huge fortresses where you can visit and lookout onto the valley below, where St. Francis of Assisi actually lived. He was born and I think died in Assisi, but the church in the valley is where he spent his adulthood. The buildings have a beautiful grayish brick that is EXACTLY what one thinks of when they envision a sweet European village. Adorable vines spread out over the building fronts, and little flower pots hang over the windowsills. Take me backkkkkk. The Duomo is amazinggggg, and you can see the crypt and ALSO some remains of the first church there underneath a glass flooring. Or maybe that was a different church. I'm forgetting now. Anyway, in front of St. Francis's church, there are three huge shrubberies cut into the letters "PAX" which means "Peace" in Italian. I definitely took a picture there.
The bus ride home was excruciating. Traffic was horrid, the people on the back of the bus were obnoxious and immature, and I couldn't fall asleep.
When we got back, Jess, Landon and I got some gelato and then came back to the apartment and chilled. Leyla was there and Alexi showed up as well. He spent his day in the pit section of the local Maserati race. No big deal. The guy has so many insane stories.
Today, Landon was going to come to do his laundry at our place, so we suggested that he just come right on up because the building isn't locked while Ricardo is here. Well, because Landon didn't speak Italian, Ricardo didn't recognize him and was confused, and eventually he made Landon leave. Miscommunication.
I spent my day in two classes (six hours total), and we visited the Medici palace in History of the Italian Renaissance. I bought a gala apple at the grocery store for lunch, and while "gloving - up" an Italian man tried to make a joke with me about his "insalta" and I laughed and nodded. It was obvious I had no clue what he was saying. I felt a little guilty. But inwardly I am thrilled that he assumed I was an Italiana. Success!
Then I headed to cooking class. Made "Taglione con salsa di noci" - not sure if I spelled that right - which is just a pasta with walnut sauce. Yummmm. Very light and yeah, not that much flavor. But it's all about appreciating the ingredients and the art of making it. Right? Anyway, we added salt and parmigiano regiano cheese to it. Such Americans. Then we had the other groups' "torta de nonna" which was TO DIE FOR. A Florentine specialty. Askkk if you want recipessss.
When I got home, Jess and I went to the grocery store and showed Landon the bureaucracy of the Italian cheese and bread queues. Then we went home, and I acted as Jess's sous chef. Our three course meal with Jess, Leyla, Alexi, Landon, and me, consisted of crab-meat stuffed mushrooms, rosemary schiattara (something like that...it's similar to focaccia bread), and balsamic chicken on top of a bed of rice (to say balsamic chicken oversimplifies the whole dish...it had onions, garlic, rosemary, tons of other stuff...and was plated beautifully with a raspberry, rosemary sprig, and balsamic glaze. sigh. I'll put up pictures on Facebook!).
Then, we went to get gelato and ate it while overlooking the Ponte Vecchio at night. It shimmered and glimmered and made you smile while sighing. Perfect.
And, now I will go because my skype date with Micah is over. It's always sad to end a conversation with my love.
Mom and Dad come to Italy in four days. INCONCEIVABLE! I can't wait. I know Daddy has it all planned out, and I've got a few ideas of my own. So fabulous.
G'night, g'night!
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Scallop Shells in Siena and San Gimignano
Can you have a bad day in Italy?
I haven't yet.
Especially when we're going on an excursion with ISA; i.e., tons of best friends, friends I love but don't get to see as much, and people I don't know as well but want to get to know better.
The day started off in Siena: WOW. Everything has a pinky red color to it, and it's such a fascinating city. It has so much pride; it's divided into seventeen neighborhoods and each has its own mascot. For the Palio horse race (twice each year), a horse is given to a neighborhood, a jockey is elected by that neighborhood, and everyone in Siena holds their breath for a minute and twenty seconds to see who will win the race. It takes place in Piazza del Campo (which means field), and it's this huge sea-shell shaped, slightly sloped (how's that for alliteration!) piazza where people just stretch out and chat with their friends. That's what I love about the Italian culture. They take the time to socialize and really love their neighbors.
Our guide was from the "scallop shell" district. And as a child you are sort of "baptized" into the particular district you are born in, and even if you marry and move to a different district, you will always be what you were born into. Other animals are like the rhinoceros, unicorn, dragon, turtle, and I can't remember the rest. The boundary lines are CLEARLY defined, and there are signs marking each section of whose side is whose. It's weird but I love that intense rivalry. I think I just have a think with pride. Maybe I need to work on that.
Siena has beautiful views because it rests on three hills. The Duomo is...breath-take-ing. Oh my. It's white and black striped marble and has sculptures from Michelangeo, and art from Donatello and probably Raphael. Daaaaaaang. You've gotta see this place (I'm talking to you, Mom and Dad. SIX DAYS UNTIL I SEE YOU!). I had so much time with Meredith and Olivia, like always. I did miss our dear friend Sabrina, but she's having a ball in Rome with her sister who's in town. So jealous!
After Siena, we piled in the bus and I fell asleep to my music...and woke up in San Gimignano! It's a lot smaller than Siena, but it's still pretty hilly. It's beautiful and brick everywhere. It's most noticeable features are the 12 or so towers left from medieval times. It's the only town in Italy to still have these fortresses which are their international symbols. The town had a little festival going on, so we got to hear a marching band (which made my DAY!) and climbed to the stop of a little fort to take some panoramic view pictures. Sooooooo pretty! Man, I love the Tuscan countryside! I still can't believe I live here.
Side note: first Saturday in weeks I haven't seen a wedding. Man.
We got back into town and went out to dinner with a friend, Landon, who is backpacking through Europe. We were trying to find an aperitivo place, but FAIL. We walked forever and decided on a pizzeria. So, I ordered a truffle and mushroom pizza! DELICIOUS! It was soooooooo good! Conversation was great as well. We all had such fun telling stories and sharing about Florence. Everyone's planning to go to explore Florence tomorrow night as well.
Tomorrow's Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis whom my Daddy admires. I always think of Dad when I see something about "San Francesco." I guess I'll be needing to get my tickets to go see them in Venice in a week as well! How exciting.
Also, on my travels today I read Julia Child's "My Life In France." Not to sound like the cliche "Julie," but I do feel like I identify with her; falling in love with this place, its attitudes, its food. I love her writing style. She not only details her life well, but every once in a while she gives depth into human character. It almost surprises you when you begin to feel what Julia Child feels. Funny. Anyway, my dream would be to live like she lived and write like she wrote.
Enough of my fantasies.
Basta.
I'm going to hop in the shower and prepare for bed/ASSISI TOMORROW! with the whole gang. So happy.
Have wonderful days, my dears.
I haven't yet.
Especially when we're going on an excursion with ISA; i.e., tons of best friends, friends I love but don't get to see as much, and people I don't know as well but want to get to know better.
The day started off in Siena: WOW. Everything has a pinky red color to it, and it's such a fascinating city. It has so much pride; it's divided into seventeen neighborhoods and each has its own mascot. For the Palio horse race (twice each year), a horse is given to a neighborhood, a jockey is elected by that neighborhood, and everyone in Siena holds their breath for a minute and twenty seconds to see who will win the race. It takes place in Piazza del Campo (which means field), and it's this huge sea-shell shaped, slightly sloped (how's that for alliteration!) piazza where people just stretch out and chat with their friends. That's what I love about the Italian culture. They take the time to socialize and really love their neighbors.
Our guide was from the "scallop shell" district. And as a child you are sort of "baptized" into the particular district you are born in, and even if you marry and move to a different district, you will always be what you were born into. Other animals are like the rhinoceros, unicorn, dragon, turtle, and I can't remember the rest. The boundary lines are CLEARLY defined, and there are signs marking each section of whose side is whose. It's weird but I love that intense rivalry. I think I just have a think with pride. Maybe I need to work on that.
Siena has beautiful views because it rests on three hills. The Duomo is...breath-take-ing. Oh my. It's white and black striped marble and has sculptures from Michelangeo, and art from Donatello and probably Raphael. Daaaaaaang. You've gotta see this place (I'm talking to you, Mom and Dad. SIX DAYS UNTIL I SEE YOU!). I had so much time with Meredith and Olivia, like always. I did miss our dear friend Sabrina, but she's having a ball in Rome with her sister who's in town. So jealous!
After Siena, we piled in the bus and I fell asleep to my music...and woke up in San Gimignano! It's a lot smaller than Siena, but it's still pretty hilly. It's beautiful and brick everywhere. It's most noticeable features are the 12 or so towers left from medieval times. It's the only town in Italy to still have these fortresses which are their international symbols. The town had a little festival going on, so we got to hear a marching band (which made my DAY!) and climbed to the stop of a little fort to take some panoramic view pictures. Sooooooo pretty! Man, I love the Tuscan countryside! I still can't believe I live here.
Side note: first Saturday in weeks I haven't seen a wedding. Man.
We got back into town and went out to dinner with a friend, Landon, who is backpacking through Europe. We were trying to find an aperitivo place, but FAIL. We walked forever and decided on a pizzeria. So, I ordered a truffle and mushroom pizza! DELICIOUS! It was soooooooo good! Conversation was great as well. We all had such fun telling stories and sharing about Florence. Everyone's planning to go to explore Florence tomorrow night as well.
Tomorrow's Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis whom my Daddy admires. I always think of Dad when I see something about "San Francesco." I guess I'll be needing to get my tickets to go see them in Venice in a week as well! How exciting.
Also, on my travels today I read Julia Child's "My Life In France." Not to sound like the cliche "Julie," but I do feel like I identify with her; falling in love with this place, its attitudes, its food. I love her writing style. She not only details her life well, but every once in a while she gives depth into human character. It almost surprises you when you begin to feel what Julia Child feels. Funny. Anyway, my dream would be to live like she lived and write like she wrote.
Enough of my fantasies.
Basta.
I'm going to hop in the shower and prepare for bed/ASSISI TOMORROW! with the whole gang. So happy.
Have wonderful days, my dears.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Gelato Teaser!
Tomorrow we all get to sleep in, so tonight we're on a sugar high and staying up and watching movies. I'm thinking about watching a documentary either by Stephen Hawking on the concept of Aliens or one about Alfred Hitchcock. I've always had this weird fascination with Hitchcock. My dad let me watch the movies when I was younger so we can just blame him. Joking. I feel like that morbidity has just added to my quirkiness. Thanks, Dad. (Did I mention he also bought me an abridged version of Edgar Allan Poe stories to read? Now I'm obsessed.)
So what got the three amigos on a sugar high? THE GELATO TEASER TONIGHT AT APICIUS! Starting around nine, the three of us divided up the gelati and made our own. Mine was hazelnut, Jess had strawberry gelato and "lingue de gatto" (or cat-tongue cookies), and Leyla made lemon granita.
Something went wrong with the chef's written directions and verbal directions, so he repremanded me in front of the class for adding the hazelnut at the wrong time. Poof - my face went bright red, I nodded and my list of "mi dispiace"'s went on and on. Leyla comforted me, and she told me to look at my ingredients/mixture. Sweetly, she said, "Love on your ingredients, Cat." It's a funny concept at first, but if you think about how each one of these things is going to make something wonderful and delicious, you appreciate them more and even stir them differently. Think about it next time you're stir-frying veggies or just mixing a cake.
Well, I began to keep stirring to thicken my mixture, and by the time he came around again, he congratulated me on recovering from my mistake! He was straight to the point and wanted you to learn, but he was also a goofball and wanted us to enjoy the process. I was pretending to take a picture of me squeezing the dough from the pastry bag into my mouth, and he made sure to put a pitcher over my head in the picture when he realized I was distracted from cooking. He laughed and made the process so much more relaxed. When my mixture was completely integrated, he came back around and said, "PERFETTO!" I couldn't believe it! I was so proud and happy I had laughed off my mistake rather than letting it spoil the dish.
And, in the end, it WAS perfect! The hazelnut gelato was my favorite, and we ate it with two "cat-tongues" each, and with vanilla gelato the chefs prepared for us beforehand. So yummy! But the gelato kept pouring out. Soon after, it was time to get out the liquid nitrogen and make granite! Mmmmm, and was it good! Then, we took more pictures, ate more cat-tongues, and finally enjoyed our strawberry sorbetto. Mmmmmmmmm-Mmmmmm! It was so much fun to goof off with Jess and Leyla and to simply have roommate bonding time. We do love each other.
Tomorrow, I'll spend a good amount of time in this special little library near the Duomo, then a big group is going out to dinner for an authentic Italian meal. I can't wait.
Oh! I almost forgot to share about my big purchase yesterday: a new purse! It's a gorgeous shiny-orange color that has a shoulder strap and beautiful ruffled triangular front. It's classy and fun. I took a picture; I'll upload on Facebook. I found it in a store called "Teresa Cambi," and this woman designs and makes all of the bags. It was on sale, so it was only 14 euro! I was quite proud of my first REAL Italian purchase. Whoooop! Although, I showed Ricardo the bag when I was walking into the building, and like any real Italian man, he knows fashion. He said it was bellissime, but it was for the Summer time, not Fall/Winter. My red bag will have to do until I get back to the states. But I'll just keep it in mint condition until I rock it there! Yayyyyy!
It cracks me up the differences between Italian men and American men when it comes to fashion. Fashion is JUST as important here to men as it is to women. A funny sight to see is a group of men gathered around a store window admiring the mannequins. The male mannequins, that is. Yes, they wear scarves. And they look GOOD. They normally wear dark shoes and dark jeans, smart glasses, well-styled hair, a leather belt, a dark leather jacket, and a dark-toned shirt or a nice collared-shirt underneath. It makes me swoon. I always tell the girls that I love that "professor" look. Too bad that Italian men only hang around intoxicated American women or none at all.
Well, maybe I'll go watch that documentary. Or maybe I'll just fall asleep.
Either way, I'm happy.
I hope you're enjoying your Thursday!
So what got the three amigos on a sugar high? THE GELATO TEASER TONIGHT AT APICIUS! Starting around nine, the three of us divided up the gelati and made our own. Mine was hazelnut, Jess had strawberry gelato and "lingue de gatto" (or cat-tongue cookies), and Leyla made lemon granita.
Something went wrong with the chef's written directions and verbal directions, so he repremanded me in front of the class for adding the hazelnut at the wrong time. Poof - my face went bright red, I nodded and my list of "mi dispiace"'s went on and on. Leyla comforted me, and she told me to look at my ingredients/mixture. Sweetly, she said, "Love on your ingredients, Cat." It's a funny concept at first, but if you think about how each one of these things is going to make something wonderful and delicious, you appreciate them more and even stir them differently. Think about it next time you're stir-frying veggies or just mixing a cake.
Well, I began to keep stirring to thicken my mixture, and by the time he came around again, he congratulated me on recovering from my mistake! He was straight to the point and wanted you to learn, but he was also a goofball and wanted us to enjoy the process. I was pretending to take a picture of me squeezing the dough from the pastry bag into my mouth, and he made sure to put a pitcher over my head in the picture when he realized I was distracted from cooking. He laughed and made the process so much more relaxed. When my mixture was completely integrated, he came back around and said, "PERFETTO!" I couldn't believe it! I was so proud and happy I had laughed off my mistake rather than letting it spoil the dish.
And, in the end, it WAS perfect! The hazelnut gelato was my favorite, and we ate it with two "cat-tongues" each, and with vanilla gelato the chefs prepared for us beforehand. So yummy! But the gelato kept pouring out. Soon after, it was time to get out the liquid nitrogen and make granite! Mmmmm, and was it good! Then, we took more pictures, ate more cat-tongues, and finally enjoyed our strawberry sorbetto. Mmmmmmmmm-Mmmmmm! It was so much fun to goof off with Jess and Leyla and to simply have roommate bonding time. We do love each other.
Tomorrow, I'll spend a good amount of time in this special little library near the Duomo, then a big group is going out to dinner for an authentic Italian meal. I can't wait.
Oh! I almost forgot to share about my big purchase yesterday: a new purse! It's a gorgeous shiny-orange color that has a shoulder strap and beautiful ruffled triangular front. It's classy and fun. I took a picture; I'll upload on Facebook. I found it in a store called "Teresa Cambi," and this woman designs and makes all of the bags. It was on sale, so it was only 14 euro! I was quite proud of my first REAL Italian purchase. Whoooop! Although, I showed Ricardo the bag when I was walking into the building, and like any real Italian man, he knows fashion. He said it was bellissime, but it was for the Summer time, not Fall/Winter. My red bag will have to do until I get back to the states. But I'll just keep it in mint condition until I rock it there! Yayyyyy!
It cracks me up the differences between Italian men and American men when it comes to fashion. Fashion is JUST as important here to men as it is to women. A funny sight to see is a group of men gathered around a store window admiring the mannequins. The male mannequins, that is. Yes, they wear scarves. And they look GOOD. They normally wear dark shoes and dark jeans, smart glasses, well-styled hair, a leather belt, a dark leather jacket, and a dark-toned shirt or a nice collared-shirt underneath. It makes me swoon. I always tell the girls that I love that "professor" look. Too bad that Italian men only hang around intoxicated American women or none at all.
Well, maybe I'll go watch that documentary. Or maybe I'll just fall asleep.
Either way, I'm happy.
I hope you're enjoying your Thursday!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Bellisime Aperitivo Disney Makin' It Snow
Short post tonight.
Today, I woke up, got to spend some time with the gospel of Mark, then made lunch. I tried out the bechamel recipe, and whoosh it was good! I chopped carrots, zucchini, onion, garlic and then put flour and milk and salt and pepper in. Then, I added the pasta and MMMMM! It was great - but I was nearly late to my class.
Then in my contemporary Italian lit class we talked about the feminist movement and watched a documentary entitled "Bellisme." I really enjoyed it...and I want to watch more documentaries. Ones that are INTERESTING, though. It gave a good look into Italian culture but kept me entertained. Rare this day and age.
I came home, took a one and a half hour nap, then Jess, Alexi and I went to aperitivo at Ganzo! Man, that place is so cool. The new specials were spaghetti, nachos, breaded olives, and marinara and mozzarella bread slices. MMMMMMMmmmmmmmm. A good number of our friends were there: Justin, Alva, Ian, Kyle, Nicole, and Brett. We laughed and chatted and ate. This is why I love the Italian culture. It's so relaxed. "Il bel far niente!" (Which I always mispronounce as "la bella fa neinte!" oops.) We're all planning an authentic Italian dinner on Friday. Then Saturday and Sunday are day-trips to Sienna, San Gimignano, and Assisi. Whoooooop!
Tomorrow night is Ganzo's "gelato teaser" where I will get to make my own gelato AND eat it. MMmmmmmmmm. Yessssss.
I facebooked my best friend, Kristen, from school and it made me miss her a lot. After graduating in December, she's considering a job with AT&T in Atlanta. I approve because I want her to stay near me, and this way we can go to shows and concerts and go shopping. She's amazing. She's so good at her job and is a genuinely honest person. I know she'll go somewhere big in her life, and I'm so grateful God has allowed me to enjoy her laughter and spirit.
Tonight, at about 8:45, I ran down to buy some espresso and milk at the supermarket because we were out. The woman at the bakery shooed me out because it was 8:57 when I walked in and the store closed at 9. Another man let me in because it was three minutes til closing. I ran and got my items and proceeded to check out. I apologized to the woman in Italian for coming late, and she said it was fine. She said that she understood that the milk was necessary, but the caffe? Not so good. I laughed, nodded, and smiled walking out the store. Italians are so blunt. It's awesome.
Our apartment has been on a Disney kick tonight...we've been belting songs from Robin Hood, Anastacia, The Little Mermaid, The Jungle Book, Fern Gully, AND Beauty and the Beast. Last night we watched the clip from the drunk sorority girl that was balling because she used the fire extinguisher on her hall because she just wanted "make it snow." Enjoy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Sd-j0rKeKw .
In something like a week and a half, Dr. Emmett Reaves "Ves" Berry and Mrs. Margaret Jones Berry will arrive in Italy. AHHHHHHHHH! I can't believe it. I didn't realize I'd be this excited but with everyone else having their family members here, all I want is to be able to share this amazing experience with the people I care most about (I just wish Emily could come, too).
Bedtime, now. G'night!
Also, Cinque Terre favorite pictures:
http://picasaweb.google.com/catrberry/CinqueTerre#
Today, I woke up, got to spend some time with the gospel of Mark, then made lunch. I tried out the bechamel recipe, and whoosh it was good! I chopped carrots, zucchini, onion, garlic and then put flour and milk and salt and pepper in. Then, I added the pasta and MMMMM! It was great - but I was nearly late to my class.
Then in my contemporary Italian lit class we talked about the feminist movement and watched a documentary entitled "Bellisme." I really enjoyed it...and I want to watch more documentaries. Ones that are INTERESTING, though. It gave a good look into Italian culture but kept me entertained. Rare this day and age.
I came home, took a one and a half hour nap, then Jess, Alexi and I went to aperitivo at Ganzo! Man, that place is so cool. The new specials were spaghetti, nachos, breaded olives, and marinara and mozzarella bread slices. MMMMMMMmmmmmmmm. A good number of our friends were there: Justin, Alva, Ian, Kyle, Nicole, and Brett. We laughed and chatted and ate. This is why I love the Italian culture. It's so relaxed. "Il bel far niente!" (Which I always mispronounce as "la bella fa neinte!" oops.) We're all planning an authentic Italian dinner on Friday. Then Saturday and Sunday are day-trips to Sienna, San Gimignano, and Assisi. Whoooooop!
Tomorrow night is Ganzo's "gelato teaser" where I will get to make my own gelato AND eat it. MMmmmmmmmm. Yessssss.
I facebooked my best friend, Kristen, from school and it made me miss her a lot. After graduating in December, she's considering a job with AT&T in Atlanta. I approve because I want her to stay near me, and this way we can go to shows and concerts and go shopping. She's amazing. She's so good at her job and is a genuinely honest person. I know she'll go somewhere big in her life, and I'm so grateful God has allowed me to enjoy her laughter and spirit.
Tonight, at about 8:45, I ran down to buy some espresso and milk at the supermarket because we were out. The woman at the bakery shooed me out because it was 8:57 when I walked in and the store closed at 9. Another man let me in because it was three minutes til closing. I ran and got my items and proceeded to check out. I apologized to the woman in Italian for coming late, and she said it was fine. She said that she understood that the milk was necessary, but the caffe? Not so good. I laughed, nodded, and smiled walking out the store. Italians are so blunt. It's awesome.
Our apartment has been on a Disney kick tonight...we've been belting songs from Robin Hood, Anastacia, The Little Mermaid, The Jungle Book, Fern Gully, AND Beauty and the Beast. Last night we watched the clip from the drunk sorority girl that was balling because she used the fire extinguisher on her hall because she just wanted "make it snow." Enjoy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Sd-j0rKeKw .
In something like a week and a half, Dr. Emmett Reaves "Ves" Berry and Mrs. Margaret Jones Berry will arrive in Italy. AHHHHHHHHH! I can't believe it. I didn't realize I'd be this excited but with everyone else having their family members here, all I want is to be able to share this amazing experience with the people I care most about (I just wish Emily could come, too).
Bedtime, now. G'night!
Also, Cinque Terre favorite pictures:
http://picasaweb.google.com/catrberry/CinqueTerre#
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Ciao mio caro.
Roommate/chef Jess just informed me of how to make a bechamel sauce. I had no idea before this!
It's just a basic white sauce you can use for pastas, etc.
Without measurements, you first cook butter until it's golden and melted on a VERY low heat. Then, you add your flour and stir together and it will have a golden dough-like consistency. Making sure to stay on a low heat, you will then add cream and incorporate it veryyyy slowlyyyyy. From there, add whatever you want! White pepper is what Jess suggested first, and then you can add cheese and spices.
She said if you want to have a vegetable sauce, you can cook your onions or whatever you're making until they are golden brown in color and sweat a little. Make sure there is a bit of moisture in the pan. Then, add your flour. Once well mixed, add cream...then cheese, spices, herbs, etc.
You've made your own pasta sauce!
I must be still recuperating from the Cinque Terre hike this weekend, but I am dragging my feet around Florence. I only had Italian class today, but I had to work up the energy to go. FINALLY we're learning verbs and how to conjugate, and I got to use them later on in the afternoon while talking to Ricardo, our apartment supervisor. Ricardo never fails to give a "Ciao!" or a "Tutto bene?" when I walk by. He wears a single earring on his left ear. Is it a diamond stud? No. It's a capital "R." He rocks it. Today, he came out of his little office to chat with me.
The iron-gate-looking door separated us, as I was about to get on the elevator and he was in the hallway. In Italian, he asked me how I was, and I told him I was un po' stanca oggi. He replied, in Italian, that it was too bad, and asked if I felt like I was imprisoned, and he jokingly pulled on the bars of the iron door separating us. I laughed and put my hand to my forehead and said yes, it does. He then jokingly said that I was his captive and I could go to my room but he would not let me out of the building, he was sorry. I had to infer ALL of this conversation by hand gestures and word roots that were similar to ones I already knew. Like the Italian word for "prisoner" is similar to the word "captive," and the bars helped to give me a visual as well.
We continued to talk for another twenty or so minutes as people entered or exited the elevator, including two ISA workers. We continued to talk about music, our favorite topic, and I told him I would scrivo un liste di gruppi di indie rock e "io ti do a domani." He likes Muse, Smashing Pumpkins, Led Zeppelin. I love music because it's a universal language.
The next topic was our pets, and the word poodle was seriously confusing for him. He has a cat and a dog, just like me! Their names are Jerry and Willy (a boxer-he used a gesture to tell me that the dog had a squished nose. I was seriously confused by that!). I told him that my cat's name was Angel perche lei e tutto bianco. We then went into how talking in Italian/English was difficult. We high-fived after our conversation because we stuck it out even though it was hard for both of us.
When I came upstairs, I realized that I was soaked in sweat. I guess that whenever I have to speak in a language I'm not comfortable with, I get reaaaaally nervous. Tomorrow before class I will have to drop off that list to Ricardo.
I came upstairs and fell right asleep for an hour and a half. Glorious.
Then came dinner time, and Jess made chicken tacos. Total comfort food. We went out for gelato afterwards. It was excellent! I got panna cotta and veronese chocolate, which tasted exactly like those little Ferrero Rocher chocolates. Mmmmmm.
I watched an episode of Family Guy when I came back in. I want to be lazy until I have to study/travel.
So, today I went to H & M (sale, but everything fit oddly so I didn't buy anything), then sauntered over to il Mercato Centrale. I bought dried bananas, pears, and pineapples for two forty euro, then bought three carrots and two zucchini for fifty cents! Here comes my splurge: I did a great deal of researching and sampling before deciding on an aged balsamic vinegar for 9.80 euro. I talked the woman down to 9 euro, though! It will be something that becomes a staple in my diet, I am sure, and one drop has such a sweet, strong taste. I'll have it for the rest of the semester.
So now, here I am, tiiiirrreeeddddd. Allora ora, qui io sono, stannncccccaaaa.
Vado a il mio camere e e possible che dormo. Buona notte!
Roommate/chef Jess just informed me of how to make a bechamel sauce. I had no idea before this!
It's just a basic white sauce you can use for pastas, etc.
Without measurements, you first cook butter until it's golden and melted on a VERY low heat. Then, you add your flour and stir together and it will have a golden dough-like consistency. Making sure to stay on a low heat, you will then add cream and incorporate it veryyyy slowlyyyyy. From there, add whatever you want! White pepper is what Jess suggested first, and then you can add cheese and spices.
She said if you want to have a vegetable sauce, you can cook your onions or whatever you're making until they are golden brown in color and sweat a little. Make sure there is a bit of moisture in the pan. Then, add your flour. Once well mixed, add cream...then cheese, spices, herbs, etc.
You've made your own pasta sauce!
I must be still recuperating from the Cinque Terre hike this weekend, but I am dragging my feet around Florence. I only had Italian class today, but I had to work up the energy to go. FINALLY we're learning verbs and how to conjugate, and I got to use them later on in the afternoon while talking to Ricardo, our apartment supervisor. Ricardo never fails to give a "Ciao!" or a "Tutto bene?" when I walk by. He wears a single earring on his left ear. Is it a diamond stud? No. It's a capital "R." He rocks it. Today, he came out of his little office to chat with me.
The iron-gate-looking door separated us, as I was about to get on the elevator and he was in the hallway. In Italian, he asked me how I was, and I told him I was un po' stanca oggi. He replied, in Italian, that it was too bad, and asked if I felt like I was imprisoned, and he jokingly pulled on the bars of the iron door separating us. I laughed and put my hand to my forehead and said yes, it does. He then jokingly said that I was his captive and I could go to my room but he would not let me out of the building, he was sorry. I had to infer ALL of this conversation by hand gestures and word roots that were similar to ones I already knew. Like the Italian word for "prisoner" is similar to the word "captive," and the bars helped to give me a visual as well.
We continued to talk for another twenty or so minutes as people entered or exited the elevator, including two ISA workers. We continued to talk about music, our favorite topic, and I told him I would scrivo un liste di gruppi di indie rock e "io ti do a domani." He likes Muse, Smashing Pumpkins, Led Zeppelin. I love music because it's a universal language.
The next topic was our pets, and the word poodle was seriously confusing for him. He has a cat and a dog, just like me! Their names are Jerry and Willy (a boxer-he used a gesture to tell me that the dog had a squished nose. I was seriously confused by that!). I told him that my cat's name was Angel perche lei e tutto bianco. We then went into how talking in Italian/English was difficult. We high-fived after our conversation because we stuck it out even though it was hard for both of us.
When I came upstairs, I realized that I was soaked in sweat. I guess that whenever I have to speak in a language I'm not comfortable with, I get reaaaaally nervous. Tomorrow before class I will have to drop off that list to Ricardo.
I came upstairs and fell right asleep for an hour and a half. Glorious.
Then came dinner time, and Jess made chicken tacos. Total comfort food. We went out for gelato afterwards. It was excellent! I got panna cotta and veronese chocolate, which tasted exactly like those little Ferrero Rocher chocolates. Mmmmmm.
I watched an episode of Family Guy when I came back in. I want to be lazy until I have to study/travel.
So, today I went to H & M (sale, but everything fit oddly so I didn't buy anything), then sauntered over to il Mercato Centrale. I bought dried bananas, pears, and pineapples for two forty euro, then bought three carrots and two zucchini for fifty cents! Here comes my splurge: I did a great deal of researching and sampling before deciding on an aged balsamic vinegar for 9.80 euro. I talked the woman down to 9 euro, though! It will be something that becomes a staple in my diet, I am sure, and one drop has such a sweet, strong taste. I'll have it for the rest of the semester.
So now, here I am, tiiiirrreeeddddd. Allora ora, qui io sono, stannncccccaaaa.
Vado a il mio camere e e possible che dormo. Buona notte!
Cinque Terre, Gastronomic Tour of Florentia!
An Italian song came on my iPod so I'm forcing myself to listen to it. It's cheesy with a hint of eighties rock. I still don't understand half of the words. Sigh.
Yesterday was MAGICAL. Sabrina, Meredith, Olivia and I met up at Santa Maria Novella Train Statizone at 5:45 and boarded the 6:10 train to Monterosso, the fifth of the five small towns of Cinque Terre ("Five Villages"). While briskly walking through the station, I saw Alexi! He and friend Mackenzie were taking the same train to the same place! We all went together, and I'm so glad because everyone bonded and had such a great time.
Each town is picturesque...in fact, you've probably seen postcards of each of the towns (which reminds me, Micah, I forgot to get you one. Forgive me. Hopefully I'll get back there before I leave.). The buildings are tall and bright-colored, in a horseshoe around each harbor. The water is a beautiful emerald green/deep blue depending on your angle. It's crystal clear so you can see the huge rocks around you...the sand is a darker gray. I REALLY wanted to get in, but we had to hike and knew it wouldn't be as comfortable if my wet clothes were rubbing my skin the whole time.
The hike was, uh, a little more strenuous than I had anticipated. We started the ascent, and those mountains you see in my pictures? We climbed those. It was so steep, but there were a lot of old people and Italians wearing designer clothes talking on their cell phones while huffing and puffing up the mountain. There were TONS of Germans, too. And people from California? Who knows.
Which reminds me of the rude man I met on the train. One of the trails was closed because a bridge was out, so we had to take a train from Corniglia to the another city. We were all packed like sardines and a couple asked me where I was from. When I told them I was from Georgia, the man in his late fifties said, "Oh, that's too bad." I laughed while telling him that I liked Georgia and then asked where he was from. California. We talked a little about baseball and he informed me that the Braves may go to the playoffs. Whoop! Then, his wife asked me why I was there. I told her we were all studying in Florence. She then wanted to know what my major was. When I said, "English," the man scoffed and said, "Looks like you came to the right place." I brushed it off again. His wife was getting visibly upset. She tried to be kind to me because her husband had a chip on his shoulder for no reason. We got on the subject of taking cooking/winemaking courses, and I told them of my trip to Castle Volognano the day before and how we got to participate in the grape picking process. I suggested that if they were interested they should definitely look it up. I was proud of my cool story, but the man wasn't impressed. "If we wanted to do that, we could just drive up the coast..." Oh yeah, he's from California. That was the last straw. I nodded and soon after turned my back in the other direction. He was the first genuinely inconsiderate person I have met here, and -SHOCKER- he's an American. Way to perpetuate the stereotype.
That didn't ruin my time in Cinque Terre, no worries! Earlier, we stopped after the first hour and a half leg of the trip from Monterosso to Vernazza. Our legs were shaking at lunch and we had to sit on some steps to rest. We took some gorgeous pictures, I felt the Mediterranean Sea for the first time, Meredith accidentally fell into the water, I fished out her glasses. Making memories. We stopped at a pizza place and I had some DELICIOUS pesto pizza. Did you know that pesto originated in Cinque Terre? Thank you Sabrina Mason for that interesting fact. Focaccia was also created there, so we had to get some of that later. When we reluctantly decided to hit the trail again, we trudged. It was a little over an hour again...and completely uphill. YIKES! But the striking views of the little villages on mountains overlooking the Mediterranean Sea made it worth it. The whole trip cost me around 25 Euros. Yay!
The temperature the whole day was as perfect as it could have been. No rain, although the clouds began to hover as we got to the last two towns. It was probably in the sixties or seventies (F) the whole time, and we were shaded by tree branches. My endorphins were pumping and I danced around the tunnels on "Via Dell'Amore," the "lovers' lane" section; completely flat concrete flooring and rails with gorgeous views. The tunnels were filled with Juliet's house style graffiti of couples' names and funky artwork. Oh yeah, and PDA everywhere. Definitely a honeymoon option. And just as I typed that, "All By Myself" came on my iPod. NOT JOKING. Haha, well at least I can keep these things in the back of my head in the event of me getting married, if that is what God wills. For now, I'm learning so much and soaking in everything around me, so being single is truly a gift from God for where I am in life.
Being around men that are different from what I am used to at home, I am getting to make valid judgements of what I value for a future spouse. Okay, so here comes my philosophical rant. I was reading "Stowaway On Board," a book on women: a letter on abortion, women in history, the way women use their bodies, and the way women subjugate themselves. Here comes my confession. I would not necessarily say I am a feminist, but I believe that women are still not completely equal in society yet. "Feminism" has such an ugly connotation, especially in the South where cultural roles are so set, so I rather not put a title on my thoughts. Yes, I want to be a mother. Yes, I believe that as a female, I am naturally more nurturing, and I do desire to serve my husband and children one day, God willing. But, I also believe that my mind is just as capable as a man's, and that if I want to have a successful career, I can still do that and have a family. I can go to law school, I can argue or write with the best, and I can prove that I don't have to graduate with a "MRS degree" to be happy in life.
So what does that have to do with judging what will be necessary in a future husband? I've come to realize that a lot of "men" do not LISTEN to women. I have had to fight in relationships and in friendships to get a bit of air time - to have the male I am talking to value my opinion. Isn't that disgusting? I haven't even really realized this or understood how wrong this is until after the fact.
There are three male friends that stick out in my mind that consider women as equals. And that's about all. This is what makes a true man: does he consider the things others have to say of value? And not just of other men whom he must compete with?
I guess this is where the whole "You can judge how a man will treat you by how he treats his mother" argument comes in. How is he taught to view his mother - the main woman in his world? Does he respect her, listen to her, appreciate her mind as well as her sacrifices for him?
Saying all of this, I have decided that I will not subjugate my thoughts for a man's again. The submissiveness of the woman in marriage is different than man and woman viewing each other as equals. The man is the protector and head of the household, the final authority of the Bible states this. So I will marry someone I will respect enough that if our opinions differ, I will submit to his out of respect for him, knowing that God has placed him in that role.
You can think I'm crazy or too eccentric. I'm okay with that.
I'm young. But I'm learning. If there's something I've said that's a little "off," feel free to message me.
So, let's get lighthearted again!
Today, we went to the Palazzo Vecchio for Renaissance History class. The Medici were ridiculously egotistical. Example: The middle floor rooms have frescoed ceilings depicting the famous Medici family members. The floor above have frescoed ceilings of Ancient Greek and Roman gods corresponding to the family members. Kind of hilarious. It was a beautiful building, though! Da Vinci was supposed to do part of it, started experimenting with his art too much, and it fell apart. So, Vasari did a great deal of the artwork. It was gooorrrrggggeeeeeooouuuuuussss. Pictures on Facebook.
I didn't eat lunch today in preparation for our cooking class's gastronomic tour of Florence! Yayyyyyyy! We went to an organic gelateria and learned how to make sorbetta fragola and tasted some olive oil gelato! Crazy with such a interesting, delicious taste! Then we went to a truffle place and each had a tiny truffle paste and cheese sandwich. One of the best things I've ever put in my young mouth. Truffles are becoming one of my favorite things to eat. That's NOT good. Imma be broke soon. Our teacher ordered each of us a prosecco matched with the truffle panino. I had a rose.
The truffle place is RIGHT by my apartment (M&D - it's on Via de Tournabouni. We'll go there for a tartufo panino.). Then I went to the grocery store. I bought my first thing of meat from the butcher! Salami toscani that was on sale (but it SO GOOD!). I went home and made some food because I was NOT full at dinner time.
Now, I'm about to do some homework and study. Mercato Centrale in the morning! Fabulous.
G'night!
Yesterday was MAGICAL. Sabrina, Meredith, Olivia and I met up at Santa Maria Novella Train Statizone at 5:45 and boarded the 6:10 train to Monterosso, the fifth of the five small towns of Cinque Terre ("Five Villages"). While briskly walking through the station, I saw Alexi! He and friend Mackenzie were taking the same train to the same place! We all went together, and I'm so glad because everyone bonded and had such a great time.
Each town is picturesque...in fact, you've probably seen postcards of each of the towns (which reminds me, Micah, I forgot to get you one. Forgive me. Hopefully I'll get back there before I leave.). The buildings are tall and bright-colored, in a horseshoe around each harbor. The water is a beautiful emerald green/deep blue depending on your angle. It's crystal clear so you can see the huge rocks around you...the sand is a darker gray. I REALLY wanted to get in, but we had to hike and knew it wouldn't be as comfortable if my wet clothes were rubbing my skin the whole time.
The hike was, uh, a little more strenuous than I had anticipated. We started the ascent, and those mountains you see in my pictures? We climbed those. It was so steep, but there were a lot of old people and Italians wearing designer clothes talking on their cell phones while huffing and puffing up the mountain. There were TONS of Germans, too. And people from California? Who knows.
Which reminds me of the rude man I met on the train. One of the trails was closed because a bridge was out, so we had to take a train from Corniglia to the another city. We were all packed like sardines and a couple asked me where I was from. When I told them I was from Georgia, the man in his late fifties said, "Oh, that's too bad." I laughed while telling him that I liked Georgia and then asked where he was from. California. We talked a little about baseball and he informed me that the Braves may go to the playoffs. Whoop! Then, his wife asked me why I was there. I told her we were all studying in Florence. She then wanted to know what my major was. When I said, "English," the man scoffed and said, "Looks like you came to the right place." I brushed it off again. His wife was getting visibly upset. She tried to be kind to me because her husband had a chip on his shoulder for no reason. We got on the subject of taking cooking/winemaking courses, and I told them of my trip to Castle Volognano the day before and how we got to participate in the grape picking process. I suggested that if they were interested they should definitely look it up. I was proud of my cool story, but the man wasn't impressed. "If we wanted to do that, we could just drive up the coast..." Oh yeah, he's from California. That was the last straw. I nodded and soon after turned my back in the other direction. He was the first genuinely inconsiderate person I have met here, and -SHOCKER- he's an American. Way to perpetuate the stereotype.
That didn't ruin my time in Cinque Terre, no worries! Earlier, we stopped after the first hour and a half leg of the trip from Monterosso to Vernazza. Our legs were shaking at lunch and we had to sit on some steps to rest. We took some gorgeous pictures, I felt the Mediterranean Sea for the first time, Meredith accidentally fell into the water, I fished out her glasses. Making memories. We stopped at a pizza place and I had some DELICIOUS pesto pizza. Did you know that pesto originated in Cinque Terre? Thank you Sabrina Mason for that interesting fact. Focaccia was also created there, so we had to get some of that later. When we reluctantly decided to hit the trail again, we trudged. It was a little over an hour again...and completely uphill. YIKES! But the striking views of the little villages on mountains overlooking the Mediterranean Sea made it worth it. The whole trip cost me around 25 Euros. Yay!
The temperature the whole day was as perfect as it could have been. No rain, although the clouds began to hover as we got to the last two towns. It was probably in the sixties or seventies (F) the whole time, and we were shaded by tree branches. My endorphins were pumping and I danced around the tunnels on "Via Dell'Amore," the "lovers' lane" section; completely flat concrete flooring and rails with gorgeous views. The tunnels were filled with Juliet's house style graffiti of couples' names and funky artwork. Oh yeah, and PDA everywhere. Definitely a honeymoon option. And just as I typed that, "All By Myself" came on my iPod. NOT JOKING. Haha, well at least I can keep these things in the back of my head in the event of me getting married, if that is what God wills. For now, I'm learning so much and soaking in everything around me, so being single is truly a gift from God for where I am in life.
Being around men that are different from what I am used to at home, I am getting to make valid judgements of what I value for a future spouse. Okay, so here comes my philosophical rant. I was reading "Stowaway On Board," a book on women: a letter on abortion, women in history, the way women use their bodies, and the way women subjugate themselves. Here comes my confession. I would not necessarily say I am a feminist, but I believe that women are still not completely equal in society yet. "Feminism" has such an ugly connotation, especially in the South where cultural roles are so set, so I rather not put a title on my thoughts. Yes, I want to be a mother. Yes, I believe that as a female, I am naturally more nurturing, and I do desire to serve my husband and children one day, God willing. But, I also believe that my mind is just as capable as a man's, and that if I want to have a successful career, I can still do that and have a family. I can go to law school, I can argue or write with the best, and I can prove that I don't have to graduate with a "MRS degree" to be happy in life.
So what does that have to do with judging what will be necessary in a future husband? I've come to realize that a lot of "men" do not LISTEN to women. I have had to fight in relationships and in friendships to get a bit of air time - to have the male I am talking to value my opinion. Isn't that disgusting? I haven't even really realized this or understood how wrong this is until after the fact.
There are three male friends that stick out in my mind that consider women as equals. And that's about all. This is what makes a true man: does he consider the things others have to say of value? And not just of other men whom he must compete with?
I guess this is where the whole "You can judge how a man will treat you by how he treats his mother" argument comes in. How is he taught to view his mother - the main woman in his world? Does he respect her, listen to her, appreciate her mind as well as her sacrifices for him?
Saying all of this, I have decided that I will not subjugate my thoughts for a man's again. The submissiveness of the woman in marriage is different than man and woman viewing each other as equals. The man is the protector and head of the household, the final authority of the Bible states this. So I will marry someone I will respect enough that if our opinions differ, I will submit to his out of respect for him, knowing that God has placed him in that role.
You can think I'm crazy or too eccentric. I'm okay with that.
I'm young. But I'm learning. If there's something I've said that's a little "off," feel free to message me.
So, let's get lighthearted again!
Today, we went to the Palazzo Vecchio for Renaissance History class. The Medici were ridiculously egotistical. Example: The middle floor rooms have frescoed ceilings depicting the famous Medici family members. The floor above have frescoed ceilings of Ancient Greek and Roman gods corresponding to the family members. Kind of hilarious. It was a beautiful building, though! Da Vinci was supposed to do part of it, started experimenting with his art too much, and it fell apart. So, Vasari did a great deal of the artwork. It was gooorrrrggggeeeeeooouuuuuussss. Pictures on Facebook.
I didn't eat lunch today in preparation for our cooking class's gastronomic tour of Florence! Yayyyyyyy! We went to an organic gelateria and learned how to make sorbetta fragola and tasted some olive oil gelato! Crazy with such a interesting, delicious taste! Then we went to a truffle place and each had a tiny truffle paste and cheese sandwich. One of the best things I've ever put in my young mouth. Truffles are becoming one of my favorite things to eat. That's NOT good. Imma be broke soon. Our teacher ordered each of us a prosecco matched with the truffle panino. I had a rose.
The truffle place is RIGHT by my apartment (M&D - it's on Via de Tournabouni. We'll go there for a tartufo panino.). Then I went to the grocery store. I bought my first thing of meat from the butcher! Salami toscani that was on sale (but it SO GOOD!). I went home and made some food because I was NOT full at dinner time.
Now, I'm about to do some homework and study. Mercato Centrale in the morning! Fabulous.
G'night!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Cinque Terre and Feminism
Prepare yourselves for a blogging of Cinque Terre, the most beautiful place on earth.
It's not going to be tonight - I'm going to shower off the grime of a 5 hour hike and hit the sack.
Check out my pictures tomorrow.
Oh, and I'll probably have a feminist rant as well after reading one of my books for class.
It should be interesting.
It's not going to be tonight - I'm going to shower off the grime of a 5 hour hike and hit the sack.
Check out my pictures tomorrow.
Oh, and I'll probably have a feminist rant as well after reading one of my books for class.
It should be interesting.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Picking Grapes in A Castle's Vineyard
(click on this link to see an album of my favorite pictures from the grape picking! also, check out my new pictures on Facebook.)
Who knew that when I signed up to come to Italy I'd get to participate in the wine-making process?
My first real taste of wine was in France in 2007 on a wine-tasting of Champagne with FPD's French Club. Since then, I've been intrigued by wine but have never had a strong urge to drink. I still don't, honestly, and it hasn't been hard to say "no" at college being underage.
Here, wine is an important "ingredient" in the Italian diet. They frown upon the way Americans use wine. We "drink" rather than "taste" what is in front of us. Instead, we should use all of our senses. Sight: the color. Smell: fruity? spicy? floral? Taste: astringent? dry? sweet? You taste sweetness with the tip of the tongue, bitter tastes at the back, and acidity on the sides of your mouth. But, shouldn't we ingest everything slowly, in this same way so as to appreciate it all? I say this but still often inhale a panini rushing out the door to class. There is so much that goes into each bottle that it is a shame when it is mistreated.
It takes an army to run the place: experts on agriculture, field workers that individually pick only the best bunches, truck drivers, weighers, grape crush machine runners, those that run the de-stemming machine, experts who run laboratory tests on each barrel to make sure it is up to quality, overseers, engineers of new wines, cooks for the taste testings, shop workers, so many!
I paid twenty euros for one of the coolest things I've ever done. Sabrina, Olivia, Meredith and I were handed a bucket and shears and sent to pick out our grape bunches. Of course, we had to sample the different varieties along the way. They have to be top quality, duh. We sheared and nibbled and laughed and took pictures while the fog lifted and we could see the mountains and other vineyards around us. I'm still surprised that they let all thirty or so students be a part of the process! We literally picked the grapes alongside the field workers and learned the techniques by watching them. It was sooooo cool.
Of course, we had a tour of the facilities and an introduction to the winemaking process as well. There is so much precision required to be able to satisfy the requirements to make a labeled Chianti!
Our guide was an FUA professor of wine studies, who was also the daughter of the family that owned the castle and vineyard. After going to school and specializing in wine studies, she made certain to keep the business in the family (which is of great importance to the Italian culture). She even created a special type of white wine dedicated to her mother. We tasted it, "Donna Patrizia," with our focaccia and AMAZING vegetable lasagna. Later, we had two reds: the first, a Chianti, with a selection of Tuscan prosciutto, and the second, a kinder wine called "Baccante," with pecorino and parmesan cheeses. We had a surprise dessert of cantucci (Tuscan biscotti) to finish the meal. We were stuffed! And this was considered a "light lunch" according to our information sheet.
Then, we got back on the bus, and nearly EVERYONE fell asleep. Full tummies and rosy cheeks. Back at the train station, the girls and I bought tickets for CINQUE TERRE tomorrow. It's a four hour (but only 10 euro) train ride to Monterosso, so we are meeting at 5:45 AM and leaving at 6:10 to get there around 10:30. I'm gonna sleep on the train... we are hiking all five cities, a full day event. We're starting at the top, the harder climbs, and working our way down to the "lovers lanes" which are not as strenuous. Everyone says that Cinque Terre is the most beautiful part of Italy. Can't wait to see it for myself! Don't worry, I'll DEFINITELY put up pictures.
It's not yet ten, but I have to hit the sack to wake up at 5 AM tomorrow. Whoosh.
Buonaserata!
Friday, October 1, 2010
Parmmmaaaaaa!
Now that I've slept 11 hours and caught up on my sleep, I can tell you all about my fantastic adventures that span the last two days.
Parma. Is. Gorgeous. The Browns: so admirable. I know that meeting them (and spur of the moment spending the night with them) was ordained by God. This couple is one of the most generous I have EVER come in contact with. More than that, they are contributing to the world and are so informed about global and at-home issues. These are the people I desire to become; they have moved in a solidified direction towards understanding the world and are giving back by bridging gaps between cultures as well as leading people around them to do the same.
They took in this little college student, let her stay in their daughter's home (not even at a convenient time for them!), took me every place in Parma that they adored in hopes that I would love it too, and spent quality time with me talking to me about the mindset of my generation as well as the future of our world. I have so many stories of the less-than-a-day that I spent with them that reveals their character, but I'll share the one that meant the most to me.
Before going to Parma, I was a tad hesitant because I had to be back in Florence for a quiz at 1:30 the next day. But, I made the right decision to come, and I planned to leave Parma around 11 to make sure I would have thirty minutes to get to class after a two-hour, connecting train ride. The morning of my departure, we headed to the station after a delightful breakfast and visits to two fascinating museums. They stayed with me until my train was to leave, which was delayed five minutes. Soon after we looked at the marquis, the train was delayed 30 MINUTES. This meant that I would miss my connection in Bologna and miss my class. I was already planning what to tell my teacher, Nada, who is the one who wears crazy clothes.
The Browns made a swift decision for me. They both hopped up and said, "Let's get in the car and drive you to Bologna." Keep in mind that it's 10:45, it's an hour drive to Bologna and an hour back to Parma, they have to pick up one of the grandchildren at 3 from school, and their daughter and her husband come in from the airport after being gone for almost two weeks directly after. So, after my protesting because I did not want to be an inconvenience, we got in the car and drove to Bologna. Can you believe this?! I had a hard time swallowing the fact that these people I had met ONCE would do this for me when it was so inconvenient for their schedule. The car ride there was full of meaningful conversation about our sweet visit, the beautiful country of Italy, our country's future. There is never a wasted moment to these people.
I can see why my grandparents adore them so much. It really makes me love the city of Thomasville to know that so many kind people live there!
This small window of time showed me the importance of "taking chances" in a way...this time was so rewarding to my life and I would never have been able to do it if I had not come to Italy or if I would have decided to stay home for the night because that was my comfort zone.
I'm sure you're dying to hear about Parma. It's so full of personality and culture! It's flat with beautiful cobble stones, much greenery and adorable parks, and so many museums that are full of fascinating artwork!
The artist Correggio painted the domes of many of the ornate churches there, and there is a huge collection of his works in one of the museums that we visited. If you haven't heard of Correggio, you most certainly will soon. Many critics believe that he has been overlooked and desire to elevate him to the ranks of Da Vinci and Michelangelo. Correggio paints with such connection to human emotion. The faces of his subjects have warmth and seem to capture you into the scene. Each Mary that he painted lovingly adored the Jesus she held, never raising her gaze anywhere beyond him. I like to think this is an accurate portrayal of Mary, whom I love. One of my absolute favorite parts of the trip was spending time with Aunt Treat and Uncle Joe while in the National Gallery where Correggio's works were. We looked at each of the paintings and contributed our observations, interpretations, and feelings from them. It's weird, but this was such a bonding point in our friendship.
Another thing about Parma that I love is that there are virtually no tourists. Little is written in English, so you know that you are always doing as the locals do! Of course, Parma is known for its food: parmesan cheese and special cuts of parma ham to name the most famous. Uncle Joe suggested the risotto with a certain cut of the ham that was a delicacy there. It was FABULOUS! Also, he later suggested to get the stracciatella gelato (cream gelato base with fine chocolate pieces) at Ben's, their grandson's, favorite gelatteria. It was the best gelato I have had yet!
The baptistry there is a gorgeous pink marble building filled with medieval artwork of Christianity inside. It's Aunt Treat's favorite building in Parma, and deservedly so. I'll put up some pictures on Facebook!
The children, Ben and Lilly, are sooooooo fun and adorable! Lilly and I bonded. I helped lay out her clothes and put her to bed. She asked me to scratch her back, like every child you ever babysit does, then if I knew any songs. Oh do I know songs. We sang four verses of "This Little Light of Mine," including the verse "Don't let Satan phoof it out! I'm gonna let it shine." I laughed when she said "phoof." That's a new one. She and Ben have such a beneficial upbringing. They are seeing and experiencing such rich history and culture, and hearing about their class assignments, they're learning things far beyond what our school systems require! We had such fun.
Anyway, I got back at about 1 p.m. yesterday, went to class, took my quiz, came home, and decided to go on a trip with ISA to Fiesole, a 20 minute bus ride to the top of a hill with incredible views of all of Florence. It was a steep yet small hike to the top to a monastery, but it's always cool to see your city from a new angle. I was so tired that I was barely making ANY sense...I feel bad for my friends that had to put up with me! We ate dinner (hamburgers!) at an Irish pub and then I came back home and crashed. I got to spend some quality time with Olivia, Meredith, Sabrina, Alva, and a friend Nicole that is really fun. She's chill and comfortable and loves adventure as well.
Tonight is Florence's wine festival, so Alva and Kyle and potentially Nicole and I are hoping to go to have small tastes of Tuscany's finest.
Other than that, today is filled with RESTING and studying at the library for midterms in two weeks so that when Mom and Dad come I can spend tons of time with them!
Sorry for writing so much, this is just my journal of my journeys as well as a way to share with friends and family, so I put a lot of detail into everything I am excited about.
Please pray for me to be committed to spending time with the Lord. It's been a bit up and down, and I am easily distracted. Thanks for reading and caring.
A few pictures:
Parma. Is. Gorgeous. The Browns: so admirable. I know that meeting them (and spur of the moment spending the night with them) was ordained by God. This couple is one of the most generous I have EVER come in contact with. More than that, they are contributing to the world and are so informed about global and at-home issues. These are the people I desire to become; they have moved in a solidified direction towards understanding the world and are giving back by bridging gaps between cultures as well as leading people around them to do the same.
They took in this little college student, let her stay in their daughter's home (not even at a convenient time for them!), took me every place in Parma that they adored in hopes that I would love it too, and spent quality time with me talking to me about the mindset of my generation as well as the future of our world. I have so many stories of the less-than-a-day that I spent with them that reveals their character, but I'll share the one that meant the most to me.
Before going to Parma, I was a tad hesitant because I had to be back in Florence for a quiz at 1:30 the next day. But, I made the right decision to come, and I planned to leave Parma around 11 to make sure I would have thirty minutes to get to class after a two-hour, connecting train ride. The morning of my departure, we headed to the station after a delightful breakfast and visits to two fascinating museums. They stayed with me until my train was to leave, which was delayed five minutes. Soon after we looked at the marquis, the train was delayed 30 MINUTES. This meant that I would miss my connection in Bologna and miss my class. I was already planning what to tell my teacher, Nada, who is the one who wears crazy clothes.
The Browns made a swift decision for me. They both hopped up and said, "Let's get in the car and drive you to Bologna." Keep in mind that it's 10:45, it's an hour drive to Bologna and an hour back to Parma, they have to pick up one of the grandchildren at 3 from school, and their daughter and her husband come in from the airport after being gone for almost two weeks directly after. So, after my protesting because I did not want to be an inconvenience, we got in the car and drove to Bologna. Can you believe this?! I had a hard time swallowing the fact that these people I had met ONCE would do this for me when it was so inconvenient for their schedule. The car ride there was full of meaningful conversation about our sweet visit, the beautiful country of Italy, our country's future. There is never a wasted moment to these people.
I can see why my grandparents adore them so much. It really makes me love the city of Thomasville to know that so many kind people live there!
This small window of time showed me the importance of "taking chances" in a way...this time was so rewarding to my life and I would never have been able to do it if I had not come to Italy or if I would have decided to stay home for the night because that was my comfort zone.
I'm sure you're dying to hear about Parma. It's so full of personality and culture! It's flat with beautiful cobble stones, much greenery and adorable parks, and so many museums that are full of fascinating artwork!
The artist Correggio painted the domes of many of the ornate churches there, and there is a huge collection of his works in one of the museums that we visited. If you haven't heard of Correggio, you most certainly will soon. Many critics believe that he has been overlooked and desire to elevate him to the ranks of Da Vinci and Michelangelo. Correggio paints with such connection to human emotion. The faces of his subjects have warmth and seem to capture you into the scene. Each Mary that he painted lovingly adored the Jesus she held, never raising her gaze anywhere beyond him. I like to think this is an accurate portrayal of Mary, whom I love. One of my absolute favorite parts of the trip was spending time with Aunt Treat and Uncle Joe while in the National Gallery where Correggio's works were. We looked at each of the paintings and contributed our observations, interpretations, and feelings from them. It's weird, but this was such a bonding point in our friendship.
Another thing about Parma that I love is that there are virtually no tourists. Little is written in English, so you know that you are always doing as the locals do! Of course, Parma is known for its food: parmesan cheese and special cuts of parma ham to name the most famous. Uncle Joe suggested the risotto with a certain cut of the ham that was a delicacy there. It was FABULOUS! Also, he later suggested to get the stracciatella gelato (cream gelato base with fine chocolate pieces) at Ben's, their grandson's, favorite gelatteria. It was the best gelato I have had yet!
The baptistry there is a gorgeous pink marble building filled with medieval artwork of Christianity inside. It's Aunt Treat's favorite building in Parma, and deservedly so. I'll put up some pictures on Facebook!
The children, Ben and Lilly, are sooooooo fun and adorable! Lilly and I bonded. I helped lay out her clothes and put her to bed. She asked me to scratch her back, like every child you ever babysit does, then if I knew any songs. Oh do I know songs. We sang four verses of "This Little Light of Mine," including the verse "Don't let Satan phoof it out! I'm gonna let it shine." I laughed when she said "phoof." That's a new one. She and Ben have such a beneficial upbringing. They are seeing and experiencing such rich history and culture, and hearing about their class assignments, they're learning things far beyond what our school systems require! We had such fun.
Anyway, I got back at about 1 p.m. yesterday, went to class, took my quiz, came home, and decided to go on a trip with ISA to Fiesole, a 20 minute bus ride to the top of a hill with incredible views of all of Florence. It was a steep yet small hike to the top to a monastery, but it's always cool to see your city from a new angle. I was so tired that I was barely making ANY sense...I feel bad for my friends that had to put up with me! We ate dinner (hamburgers!) at an Irish pub and then I came back home and crashed. I got to spend some quality time with Olivia, Meredith, Sabrina, Alva, and a friend Nicole that is really fun. She's chill and comfortable and loves adventure as well.
Tonight is Florence's wine festival, so Alva and Kyle and potentially Nicole and I are hoping to go to have small tastes of Tuscany's finest.
Other than that, today is filled with RESTING and studying at the library for midterms in two weeks so that when Mom and Dad come I can spend tons of time with them!
Sorry for writing so much, this is just my journal of my journeys as well as a way to share with friends and family, so I put a lot of detail into everything I am excited about.
Please pray for me to be committed to spending time with the Lord. It's been a bit up and down, and I am easily distracted. Thanks for reading and caring.
A few pictures:
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