Better Late than Never?

So I just found four blogs that I never got to post while I was in Italy.







All I can say is I certainly miss Italy. Not a day goes by that I don't think about all the memories that our home for those four months holds. The Palazzo Alberti will forever hold a special place in my heart. Italy was an amazing experience and will always remain a beautiful memory. And now a year later, I'm engaged and preparing for graduation. Ohhh, how time flies!

This is the story of my life and I write it every day… - Bon Jovi

Goodbyes have started. My biggest goodbye so far was to the elementary school students. I have learned so much from the children and I have also taught them along the way. Since it was my last visit on Monday, I brought the children special candy from home; I gave a variety to choose from: Bottlecaps, LemonHeads and Fruity Good and Plenty. In class, we talked about Halloween; the students drew pictures of their favorite Halloween costumes and enjoyed their American candies. Just before I was about to leave the children all asked for my signature. I signed each of their agenda books on the May 8^th: the day I will leave Italy. Some of the students even asked for my address; I gave it to them and I hope we will stay in touch. It’s remarkable to me how attached I feel to the children and I’ve just known them for a couple of weeks. I will certainly miss seeing them every week. I’m leaning now, more than ever, in the direction of becoming a teacher because of this experience. As the saying goes “Everything happens for a reason” and so I think one of my reasons for coming to Italy was for me to realize my love for teaching.

My last weekend was spent in Sansepolcro. It was very relaxing and I got to check things off of my to-do list. I was able to finally purchase the Sansepolcro ceramic piece I’ve been eyeing for about a month now. I organized my room and even started packing. It’s going to be interesting trying to fit all of my souvenirs into my suitcase, especially with the less than fifty pound weight limit. Probably one of the most accomplishing events was Kelsey, Kim, Hilary and I walked the Corso on Friday and Saturday night. This is a very Italian thing to do because every weekend the Italians walk up and down the street, talking to each other, meeting friends and admiring the window displays. It was very entertaining to people watch; in our Italy Today book, Bella Figura, one of the chapters describes how Italians dress nicely because they want to be looked at. This statement was definitely proven true this past weekend. Most were dressed in their best. My favorite outfit was a plain black dress and she styled it up with a pair of gold high-heeled shoes that resembled Dorothy’s from the Wizard of Oz.

In addition to people watching, walking the Corso also set the stage for Kim’s love to finally introduce himself. A few weeks back, Kim and her Italian ragazzo met at La Scorpione, the discoclub in Sansepolcro. He asked her to dance and Kim declined; ever since then they have eyed each other every time they’ve seen each other around Sansepolcro and it’s been almost every day. That’s right, she sees him almost every day all around Sansepolcro; I think he is looking for her. After waving to Kim from across the piazza Friday afternoon, he finally got up enough courage to talk to her on Saturday night. It was really adorable to see Kim use her Italian knowledge to talk to her ragazzo, Francesco. The same night, Kelsey charmed Francesco’s friend, Paolo. The friend wanted to know if Kelsey was married because he thought she was really pretty. Paolo even put his arm around Kelsey, which of course lead to endless jokes made on Kelsey for the rest of the weekend. To quote Dr. Webb, this was definitely an “enchanted evening.”

In addition to participating in walking the Corso, this weekend the group also experienced La Scampanata, an incredible, amusing and extraordinary occasion. It’s comparable to Meredith’s Cornhuskin’s saying “You just have to experience it.” This event is really difficult to describe but I will try. La Scampanata is an event that takes place in Anghiari at the beginning of May. Males must register to participate. Then, on the day of the event, the participants arrive in the main piazza and check in before 6 a.m. Friends make it a competition to make those participating late...The last person to check in is carried throughout the town while the townspeople cover him in various kitchen items (flour, eggs, etc.). On the first of May, Kim, Kelsey, Hilary, John Rose, Dr. Webb and I left Sansepolcro for Anghairi in the wee-hours of the morning, around 5:30 a.m. We arrived and braced ourselves for the event to come. We were nearly surrounded by people in yellow shirts that read “La Scampanata 2010.” As we waited for the last person to arrive, I took many pictures. The atmosphere was extreme; there was music playing, the sun rising and anticipation mounting. Nearly 6:10 a.m., the last person arrived and the food tossing almost automatically began. This was one crazy event that extremely hard to describe in words because it was so much fun. I can’t believe that such a bazaar event can be so entertaining. I have come to the conclusion that this event was my favorite morning in Italy.

After spending three months in Italy, I know feel as if I have three homes. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I love Pittsburgh, I will always look forward to return to that city to visit, and a piece of my heart will remain there forever. Second is my current home on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Even though at first I had a little trouble adjusting, Manteo definitely ranks as high as Pittsburgh. Lastly is Sansepolcro; this town is like Manteo, a small town, except it has a splash of Italian culture. I can’t believe in this short amount of time, I’ve met know so many people. Almost every time I walk down the main street, I spot someone I know; it’s a really good feeling and this makes it all the harder to leave.

As I’m getting ready to leave there are a few songs that are repeating in my head. One of which goes like this…

“I've heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn

And we are led To those who help us most to grow
If we let them And we help them in return
Well, I don't know if I believe that's true
But I know I'm who I am today
Because I knew you...”

–For Good from Wicked: The Musical

Well, I do believe this is true. I do sense people come into our lives for a reason and show us something we didn’t know before. I know I’m going to find it more difficult to leave Italy because I’m going to miss the people so much. Megan encourages everyone with horizontal spirit fingers. Kim has fascinated all of Italy with her head to toe fashion and captivating accessories. Kelsey has shown it is possible to fall asleep just about anywhere. Kayley shined a new light on the importance of school supplies and how it’s always possible to add more. Lilly knows everything is “phenomenal,” especially macchinas. Shannon has growing love for dogs with each passing day. Hilary taught us the most important part of a meal is dessert. The “ghost” that occupied the room next to the parlor was all-knowing and knew how to solve any household problem. Also, Dr. Webb and John Rose are two of the most outstanding people I’ve ever met. They love each other very much, care greatly for their “granddaughters” and just want the best for us. All the girls and professors here have definitely left a handprint on my heart and I will remember them forever. This has been an incredible experience filled with ups and downs, but we all made it through and learned a lot along the way. For example, how important it is to know what the word “oveste” means, how important it is to have a watch with the correct time, a working alarm clock, snacks for road trips, and a smile no matter what happens. I cannot believe how quickly time has passed, but the memories made here will last a lifetime.

Now, the other song that is constantly running through my head is the song, “Who says you can’t go home, there’s only one place that call me one of their own, I’ve been all around the world and as a matter of fact, there’s only one place left I wanna go…Who says you can’t go home?” – Bon Jovi

I will miss Italy but I know this is not the final goodbye, I will return one day. More than anything, I am looking forward to seeing my mom, dad, two brothers, sister and my boyfriend waiting for me in the airport. Until next time, arrivederci Italy!

Can summer come too quickly?

The countdown of remaining day is already in the teens; we have less than two weeks left in Italy. Time has flown by so quickly. I’m a little hesitant about leaving Italy but my adventure has been indescribably perfect and I would not change a thing. As the weeks wind down, I’m certainly still keeping busy.

Kim and I even decided to make some major changes before we leave; this past week, we went to Jean Louis David and both had our hair done with a very Italian style. This haircut experience was one of the most fascinating and entertaining yet. The stylist started by giving me a book to choice a hairstyle. I thought it would be fun to let the stylist decide; so I asked him to pick one for me. After having a new ‘do chosen, my hair was then washed and conditioned. When it came time to cut my hair I was a little nervous because the stylist was using a razor. It was a way of cutting hair that I’ve never seen before; he would comb my hair then razor across a given section. This technique allowed for deep layers and precise, straight cuts. Once my haircut was finished another person came and styled my hair; she blow-dried my hair and made it curl out. I love my new hair cut; it’s a lot shorter than I normally have my hair but change is a good thing.

Also this past week, I have not been feeling well lately, perhaps it’s due to the weather fluctuating; so I set out to find a remedy for my little cold. I went to the town pharmacy, which is right down the street. It was interesting to find only the bare minimum located in front of the counter; almost all medication is behind the counter and the clerk must assist the customer in getting the proper medicine. So I used my little Italian vocabulary and said, “Ho mal di gola e…” (I have a sore throat and..) then I pointed to my nose and head. The physician somewhat understood then handed me a spray for my sore throat. I further explained that I wanted a medicine for “tutti” (all) of my symptoms. I was then given a form of ibuprofen. I felt skilled to have used Italian, be understood and able to get what I needed.

One of my favorite parts of the week is going to the elementary school. It is even more exciting when I see one of my students outside of class. Since Sansepolcro is such a small town, I see my students quite often. I saw one of my girls last weekend while I was walking the streets. She stopped her mom and told her to wave to the “ragazze americane.” Another time, I was purchasing something in one of the little boutiques; a different student popped her head out behind the counter. The student was more than delighted to see me outside of school and turns out her mother owns the boutique. The connection I’ve developed with these 4^th and 5^th graders is incredible, considering I’ve only known them just a couple weeks. Normally, I go to the elementary school only on Mondays but this past week I was invited to have lunch with the children. Whenever I walked into the cafeteria on Wednesday afternoon, I reached celebrity status, all the kids were waving at me and all of my students were shouting my name, “Jess, Jess, Jess!” It was very flattering. I was given a special table setting with a glass plate and metal silverware; the children had plastic plates and silverware. I spent my time at lunch talking with the children and they were identifying objects around the room. They would point to an object, I would say it in English then they would repeat it in Italian. I really enjoyed this extra visit to the elementary school.

The group is certainly still keeping busy with little weekend excursions. This past weekend we went to Gubbio and Anghiari. On Saturday, after a short bus ride of only 90 minutes, we arrived in Gubbio. Our first stop of the day was to Mausoleum of the Forty Martyrs where we learned about the heart wrenching story. This site is now a memorial for the forty innocent hostages that were shot by Nazi troops on June 22, 1944; the troops slaughtered the people as a form of retaliation against the partisans who killed two Nazi soldiers. One of the victims of this event was our tour guide’s father, so this made the story all the more powerful and devastating.

After learning about this horrible event, we had a change of pace and were stuck by a more uplifting event. We were taken to the top of the mountain. To get to the top we had to ride green cages that cages were big enough for two people; Kim was my partner. The contraption did not stop moving so to board we had to just jump on. It was certainly a fun experience and I took some incredible pictures of the surrounding scenery. We then explored the top of the town, looked around a church and learned a little about nature from Dr. Swabb and Mr. Ed, the science professors. When it was time to go back down to the main square, the cage lift was not in operation. So we had to walk down the mountain on a rather tricky path. A restaurant owner informed the group it should take about twenty minutes to walk; however, forty five minutes later we were finally at the bottom. The group was given forty-five minutes to walk around and explore. Kim and I found a great pizza place and I ordered my new favorite pizza: zucchini and tomatoes; it was scrumptious. After our little lunch break, we boarded back on the bus and headed to a place where Dr. Swabb and Mr. Ed explained why dinosaurs are extinct. One theory was developed by a scientist who found an inquisitive lining of red substance on a mountain near Gubbio. The red clay represents the great dying of seventy-percent of all living organisms, including the dinosaurs.

After an intellectually filled day, the group returned to Sansepolcro and prepared for the next day. I enjoy Saturday night because there’s always something going on. This past Saturday some of the girls watched New Moon complete with a bag of popcorn. It was a relaxing way to end the day.

The next day, Sunday, the group took a fifteen minute bus ride to Anghiari for an arts and crafts show. I was expecting the setup to be comparable to the markets and festivals we have seen several times in Italy; however, there were yellow signs pointing to what shops were open and had merchandise. This arrangement was clever and promoted all visitors to walk all over the town. So in addition to looking at stunning jewelry I also went on a tour of the town. Some of my favorite items from the craft fair were guitar shaped Hello Kitty earrings, spectacular glass sculptures and the sweetest smelling aromas. Despite the many tempting offers, I surprisingly only bought one souvenir: peach and mango aroma beads.

Before I know it I will be taking my suitcase out of its laundry room holding place; it’s nearly time to begin packing. I have bought a decent amount of presents so packing will be a very interesting process. Wish me luck!

As Time Flies By

What will I miss most when I return to the United States? The Italian food! It was said best by a Venice store owner who explained, “It’s all good food. Every restaurant has pasta and pizza.” Pasta and pizza are certainly the two main food groups here in Italy. The pasta options are endless but, for the most part, are all equally delicious. However, as mentioned in my previous blog, I do have favorite, gnocchi with marinara sauce. Italians are very passionate with the preparation of meals; it a significant part of Italian culture. Lunch is taken very seriously and most of the shops will close to respect this tradition. Maybe this explains my dad’s obsession with food, it is his culture and it is in his blood. Recently we had a cooking lesson preformed by Sara’s husband, Fabrizio, who is a chef. He taught us how to make homemade pasta and gnocchi; I cannot wait to show everyone at home how it is done.

This past Friday afternoon the group visited Anghiari, a town not too far away from Sansepolcro by bus. Once again, my adventure is always the process of getting to the destination. Kim, Shannon, Lilly and I thought the bus was leaving at 12:37 p.m.; so we planned to be at the bus stop at 12:30. It turned out that the bus actually left at 12:27 so we missed the bus by three minutes. The next bus was not for another ninety minutes. So, Kim and I walked the main street of Sansepolcro and window shopped since all the stores were closed for lunch. We headed back to the bus stop and waited there for 45 minutes with Shannon and Lilly. Even though we missed our bus, it was a beautiful day so it was nice to absorb the vitamin D. We caught the bus at 1:45 and arrived in Anghiari about fifteen minutes later. The late comers met up in the main piazza with the other group who were on the earlier bus. The group each had a gelato with flavors ranging from panna cotta to vanilla and John Rose enjoyed a cup of tea. After we were finished with our afternoon treats, the group meandered through the streets, hiked up a few hills, climbed a few stairs and got to upper part of the city that had an incredible view. We were even able to see Sansepolcro from the top. We took some pictures and then made our way back down through the town. Anghiari was a quaint, little town with a few stores and the main attraction was the Brusati factory, where fine linens are produced and manufactured. I would like to return to Anghiari for another visit; it was a nice change of scenery but I still prefer Sansepolcro.

The next morning, Kim, Kelsey and I took a bus to Arezzo then rode the train to Florence. It was a quick trip, only about two hours total. We spent the day exploring the markets and enjoying the sunshine. I purchased quite a few family presents; I’m not going to say specifically what because I know some of my family will read this and I want the presents to be left a surprise. I can say that my shoulders were not happy with all the presents I purchased; it was a bit of a challenge carrying everything I bought. After my mission of family presents was completed, Kim, Kelsey and I went to H&M. It is one of my new favorite stores since it is affordable and has cute clothes.

Kim always dresses in the cutest clothes paired with the perfect accessories. She usually wears a headband or flower in her hair; John Rose has a different name for her hair accessories. Every day when Kim doesn’t wear one John Rose asks her where her “fascinator” is; it’s a palazzo joke. Kim has become my stylist and I call her K.Fashionista. She helped me pick out some cute outfits at H&M; however, the outfits looked better on the hanger. Instead, I got accessories to extend my jewelry collection; I even got a “fascinator.” Kim purchased a few cute outfits. And Kelsey, who I call Little Gray because she wants to be a doctor, found a dress she liked.

On our way back to the train station, we found a little mini-market selling antiques with profits supporting the Misericordia. One of the women working the stand, speaking only in Italian, asked me where I was from and why I was visiting Florence. I explained to her that I am an American student studying aboard for about three months in a small town. She told me she has never been to the United States but all the pictures she has seen are bellisimo. After our little talk, I found the perfect antique elephant figurine; it was only five euro and since the lady enjoyed our conversation she gave me a free calendar containing pictures of Florence. The elephant figurine has accents of gold and its trunk is up, which I have just recently learned means good luck.

After a successful shopping day in Florence, we headed back to Sansepolcro. I used my time wisely and was able to get some reading for my literature class accomplished while on the train. Upon arriving back at the palazzo, I organized my gifts and placed them in my suitcase so they would not be in the way. I wrote down all I had purchased and luckily I only have three more gifts to find; this is a major accomplishment.

In Sansepolcro there is a disco club called Lo Scorpione. It opens at 10:45 p.m. on the weekends but for some reason the locals do not go to the club until closer to 1:30 a.m. Due to all the traveling on weekends, the group had not been to Lo Scorpione yet so we all decided that this Saturday night was the time to go. To prepare for our late night out, after the Florence trip, I took a nap. I am a morning person, I enjoy going to bed relatively early compared to everyone here and then waking up earlier; so I really need that nap if I planned to stay out late. So after a two hour nap, I woke up, had a delicious cereal dinner and got ready for our big night out. My outfit was a black skirt paired with a black tanktop and my silver sweater; I would like to thank K.Fashionista for helping me make this outfit possible. Once we were all ready we had to use some persuasion and convincing then Lilly and Kayley agreed to go to club too. We were very ‘Italian’ that night because we did not officially leave the palazzo until about 2:15 a.m.

I had never been to a club before so I knew this was going to be an interesting experience to have my first occurrence to be in a European club. We get to Lo Scorpione and the cost for donnas (women) is ten euro with a drink included. My drink of choice for the night was Coke with lemon. The atmosphere of the club was very different than I thought it was going to be. The club was set up with white lounge couches squaring around the dance floor. It was dimly lit with strobe lights projecting onto the dance floor. The music was, legitimately as reflected in the name of ‘discoclub,’ for the most part all disco; so to me, all the songs sounded the same. The DJ did however play one American song that I recognized, “I’ve Got a Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas. The experience of the club was very noisy, dark and smokey. It was an enjoyable time however, clubs just are not my scene; so this club may have been a once in a lifetime experience for me.

It is incomprehensible to me how quickly time has flown by. Just the other day, I registered for classes for my Junior year in college; it’s unbelievable that I’m almost more than halfway through my college career. Time continues to fly by here in Italy as well. Three weeks, that’s all we have left of our time in Italy. That means only a few more weeks of classes, a couple more blogs and not enough of Margarita’s and Alessandra’s marvelous lunches. I cannot believe how quickly time has flown before I know it I will be back on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Until then I will be living it up in Italy because this once in a lifetime opportunity is drawing to an end.