Lucky to Know You

I somehow feel like a part of this wonderful place already. Granted, most young residents are international students or Americans, but that just adds to the eclectic nature of this city. Florence is also very accommodating of American students which is nice, but I wish they would force us out of our comfort zone a bit more. It's really up to the student on how immersed he or she will be in the Italian culture.  For example, this weekend is a pastry festival and I intend to be all over that!   

My days pass in a pace and disposition that I will attempt to explain... People rarely rush anywhere yet the city is always busy.  There is an air of leisure always in the air, yet an intense focus on interpersonal relationships. Italy is so much about its people and culture rather than status and the independent self. It's nice to feel a part of something which is why I think people like JMU so much because it creates a college community and attitude unique to itself.

I love how classes are obviously important here, but are not the main focus of being in Florence. Also, the classes offered here only enhance my cultural understanding of Italy and Firenze. For example, we learn about how wine is not a drink here, it's a way of communing with people and sharing with them. It's also sweet that part of our homework is to try 3 different wines to evaluate and compare them. :) But for class time we go to museums and historical places which makes art history real and just hits you in the face with how amazing it really is rather than seeing it in a book. 

This weekend is the first of Oktoberfest so of course all the girls are making a trek out to Munich to celebrate German beer.  Alexa and I were the only two to stay in Firenze, but we are going on a walking/eating tour of Firenze and attending a pastry festival this weekend.  (We also get to meet mamma Lo's grandbaby!) I think we'll do just fine...

Even though this place is the most freeing place, it's wonderful to know that people back home love you and are missing you while still supporting your exploration abroad.  Don't let me forget to tell you about Angel's birthday extravaganza, a designer named Geoffre, family dinners, and PDA in Museums.  Ciao ciao a domani!