Woops.

"Briana, you should really update your blog...it's getting embarassing." 

Thank you, father.

Yeah, ok, so it is a little embarassing that I haven't updated in about a month...or more. 

Well, here's the thing, I have about 8 days left in Italy and it still doesn't feel like it. These past few weeks I've really been able to take a look around and see what this world means to me. I walk along the streets of my neighborhood and look at the Tabacchi, the cafes we frequent, the constant construction, and I love it all. I see how much this place has become my home and how my heart and my mind know this isn't the last time I'll be here. The fact that I have so little time left at this point is somewhat unsettling. Not necessarily in a bad way, but it's just so surreal that I've been here for about 4 months and it feels like days. But days in which I've been able to find my way around, learn the language a little better and make this foreign land a true part of my life. 

In the last few days, I've really been running in to opportunities that are loaded for my future. It's exciting. This has been a dream that I never felt would become reality, but here I am. Through the struggles that I've come across, I would not trade one single millisecond of my time here for anything else. The people I've befriended, the sites I've seen, the culture that I've learned about, experienced and accepted, are all things that have just become part of me. At the same time, I've come to appreciate, more than I can express, what I have at home. It's so funny to me that I've traveled thousands of miles from comfort and become comfortable just the same. 

Anyway.

As for the past few weeks, they've been great. School still doesn't feel like school, and now it's over. I have exams next week and then I'm done, crazy. I've been finding so many fun markets and stores, meeting new people and hoping they become lasting friendships, and really just living. I haven't done a whole lot in particular, just the day-to-day has been the main event. I guess to keep you fully informed, I could update more consistently, but, you know...promises, promises :)

It's been raining a lot lately. I suppose as a trade for snow, Rome gets rain. It's a bit of a downer from time to time, but there's not much to be done about it, of course. Either way, I haven't let it stop me from enjoying being outside of the apartment. A few weeks ago we took a day trip to Assisi, and it was beautiful. The town was incredible, with beautiful structures and the great basilicas like the St. Francis Cathedral. We had a ridiculous lunch, typically Italian, with about a million courses. An antipasto of cheeses and meets, 2 pasta dishes, a meat dish, and dessert and coffee. I couldn't move. Either way, the trip was beautiful and, yet again, a relaxing getaway from Rome. In addition to that, there's been an abundance of birthday celebrations which have all been packed with food, activities and cake. 

Again, I love my friends here, I love the cafes, I love the sites, and I love the language. The following days are going to be filled with all of the above, as much as possible. Forget sleep, I'm in the Eternal City.

Third time's a charm.

Just a little blurb to show that life is normal and not all excursions and exotic.

It's been raining the past few days in Rome and is supposed to continue for the next, oh, 10 days? Who knows if it actually will, but it's been consistent the past two. I don't like this! Why isn't life here perfect? We didn't pay for this...

Just kidding!
It's really alright, just a bit of a downer.

I'm using Donna's computer, sitting on her bed while she does a crossword puzzle in Star magazine.

Is it true that you can get electricuted if you take a shower during a thunder and lightning storm?

Anyway, I'm tired, I'm going to bed soon. A presto!

Bonjour!

I'm just gonna throw new information in your face like it's nobodies business!

Well, it's been a few days past, but this previous week was our fall break from school. Everyone went everywhere and seemed to enjoy themselves. One thing we all talked about was, if we were back in the United States getting ready to go on fall break to say, Paris, Amsterdam and Egypt, we'd be the talk of the town, the envy of all our friends, and definitely jumping out of our seats with excitement to travel to foreign countries. For some reason, living in a European country, only to travel to another European country, has been mentioned so nonchalantly.

"Where are you going for break?"

"Oh, we're going to Greece for 5 days then making our way to Egypt for 3. What are you doing?"

"I'm going to France."

"Cool, see you next Monday!"

Yeah, those were typical conversations the days preceding our fall break. And yes, I went to France! Ohhh, France.

To start from the beginning, I was supposed to leave on a Friday but missed my flight. I woke up too late considering there was a public transportation strike all day. It was quite unfortunate, but I was abnormally calm. I had to buy a new ticket (thanks again, padre!) which was a fat pain, but not outrageous. Saturday I found my way to Montpellier, France to see my best friend since we were 12, Kirsten. Again, we were abnormally calm about being reunited in a foreign country, but I supposed that's just our friendship. It's a beautiful thing. Anyway, fresh off the train, we headed to an outdoor cafe for a Happy Hour. I don't know whose idea that was, but I got to sit in an adorable, open area, in downtown Montpellier with Kirsten and her friend Kim. After a beer, and still being in awe of the towns cuteness, we headed to Kirstens dorm. The thing I enjoy about the program she is doing is that she really gets immersed in to the French college experience. She lives in a dorm with all kinds of people, from all over the world, goes to a university where all her classes are in French, and really getting a true college experience...in another country. Yeah.

Later that night, we made our way back to the downtown area, which seems to be the most alive part of the city! Kirsten and other French friends convinced me to rent a bike to ride into town. It was about a 15 minute bike ride. Ohh, boy. I don't ride bikes in Cincinnati, I haven't in years. Montpellier is very flat, but I was still a bit out of practice. Needless to say, I crashed! Ok, not as bad as it sounds. It was wet and my wheel got caught in a tram track. Believe me. Anyway, I fell and bruised up my legs, they're pretty colors at this point; I'll spare you pictures. But nothing could ruin the fact that I was riding a bike alongside my best friend, in France, with some great French people! It was all an experience, and definitely one at which to look back and laugh. Nothing was really accomplished that night, but it was just plain fun.

The next day, Kirsten and I went to a flea market and just looked around. It was very, very cool. I really loved all the antique furniture and house-trinkets that were everywhere. I wish I had a house closeby because I would have furnished the entire thing in about an hour. After we walked around, we went back to her area and lazed around for the majority of the day and spent time with some cool people. Monday, Kirsten and Kim took me on the Montpellier tour (pictures to follow soon). Really, it's a beautiful city with a cozy and charming character. Kirsten and I made our way to Lyon (about 3 hours north-ish ? where I flew in from Rome) on Tuesday morning to spend the day and night, so I could get my early flight back home (to Rome!) on Wednesday. We truly had no plans; we walked off the train, I checked my duffel bag at the station, and we headed outside to see what we could see. Again, pictures to follow, they will help me document what I actually did.

Anyway, we saw some surprising and wonderful things. It's a day that I will REALLY never forget. It was the day the Kirsten and I talked about when we were in 7th grade: exploring European cities together when we are "older and in college!" Well, we're older, and we're definitely in college, so I guess it's all working out for the best.

Keep an eye out for pictures, I promise that the hard part is over for me, I'll find a time to get some pictures arranged on this thing.

Kirsten gets to Rome on Friday; we're conquering Europe bit by bit. I'm really excited for it. I can't wait to show her my new home, explore new things with her and share what I've grown to love about the city! Actually, it will be fun for the following two weekends. November is going to be hectic, I'll tell you that much. The weekend after this coming, my brother Dan is visiting, and the weekend after my dad will be here! I can't picture either of them in a foreign country, let alone Italy, but I know they will love it. I just wish everyone could see what I get to see on a daily basis.



When I got back to Rome, I hadn't slept in over 24 hours. I was the first one back to the apartment and was alone for about 2 hours, only to be greeted by my two favorite people in the world, my roomates Donna and Jen. They just got back from Greece and we were reunited at last. We had the apartment to ourselves for about 3 days and it was just relaxing. We had a great time being together and loving the city; good times.

At this point, it's back to school, but I'm still enjoying it. Perhaps appreciating it a bit more? Either way, I still want to stay. Don't worry, I AM coming home, I just don't want to.
Kidding.

Toscana

Ok, so I know it's a little late, but I do need to share some pictures and tid-bits from Tuscany.

The bus ride from Rome to Montalcino was about 3 hours, maybe a little less, but it felt like

forever. It was continuous snake turns up a mountain, in the country-side. About half the bus got sick, it was horrible. I got motion-sick pretty bad and almost lost it after I witnessed my dear friend Nicole lose hers all over the place. Woops! Anyway, it figures that after a stomach-assaulting ride, the first stop is the Castello Banfi, which happens to be one of the most important wine producers in Tuscany. We did a wine tasting of three regional wines, all reds. I don't remember the names of the wines, only that I preferred the first of the three we tried.


We had some time to walk around the estate, which was absolutely beautiful. This picture to the left is the view that surrounded us; the two guys are Charles and Phil, other friends from CEA. It was breathtaking and spacious and astonishingly green. We realized that there's not much greenery in our everyday life in Rome, so it was nice to be surrounded by nature. At least for a little bit.





After the beautiful sights and tastes we made our way back to the bus and on to lunch in a smaller little town in Montalcino. I forget what it was called, but think of a tiny stone village in the country of Italy, and that's where I was. On top of a mountain-hill, overlooking miles of rolling hills, is where we spent about an hour. The restaurant we went to was a hole-in-the-middle-of-nowhere kind of place and you couldn't find better food. Handmade pasta, vegetables grown down the mountainside, fresh bread; there were really no words to describe it. Not to mention the people in the place were all smiles and laughter at these 28 American kids who somehow found their way to their restaurant.

Again, we return to the bus to make our way to Siena. I hope you did your reading, you definitely had some time to study up, with my lack of frequent writings and all...Anyway. We checked in to our hotel and it was like we stepped in to a movie.
NB: For about 15 of us, this trip was mandatory for either/both the Food and Wine class and the Living Italy (culture) class because we had just learned about the culture of Siena, etc. I happen to be in both of them.
It's hard to describe, as well as appreciate, the beauty of this little town. Yes, the city is absolutely beautiful with an almost private, but still welcoming, charm; but there's so much more to the people and the city and the history. Comparable to someone who has studied and developed a heart for art history, and finally have a chance to step foot in to the Sistene Chapel and get an upclose look at the details you've only read about.
The next day, Saturday, we got a tour of the city, which isn't very large, from a woman belonging to the Bruco (caterpillar) contrada. Nicoletta was in high spirits because her contrada had one the August 2008 Palio. And believe me, she didn't waste a chance to throw in how much pride she has for her own contrada. The whole tour was just seeing little details that made up the true character of Siena. The flags on the balconies, the animal logos in the breadshop windows, anything and everything you can see is part of the Sienese identity.

An example:
As I and several friends were walking back to the hotel from dinner on Friday night, we got a tad lost. We stopped to ask some older gentlemen who were standing in the doorway of a restaurant, in which direction was the Hotel Athena, where we were staying.

He scoffs, "Ohhh, Pantera!" in a disdainful, yet playful (kind of) way, making typical Italian hand gestures.

Why is this worth noting? Well, as you know, there are 17 contrade within Siena, all of which have strict boundary lines that only the people of Siena are aware of. Certainly these men were from a different contrada from where our hotel was located, perhaps even a rival contrada. That short moment was what I consider to be a true glimpse of the engrained personal identity that the people of each contrada hold.
Fascinating, truly fascinating.

Since I've been in Italy, I've learned so much about the country and the history and the culture and have been realizing that there is so much we, as Americans, have no clue. As I get the chance to experience things as I learn them, is something I will never take for granted. I've been learning what it feels like to be excited about new information and applying it to my life and my own culture; taking bits and pieces and really figuring out what makes me tick and what really makes me run. Dad, you'll be happy to know that I actually enjoy doing my homework here, contrary to popular belief. Maybe I'll be a little more in to school when I get back to Cincinnati. Maybe not. But the charm of Italy-the beauty of my surroundings, the people, the culture-definitely has its hold on me.

Yes, yes...I know...

I realize I'm still slacking on the regular updates; I'm sorry.

Tuscany was absolutely beautiful! Thinking about it now, it almost feels unreal that I actually witnessed all the beauty that was surrounding me. Before I update fully, I need you all to do some quick homework, because I don't feel like explaining certain things. But here are a few things that need to be said:

I haven't uploaded my pictures yet. I think I'm developing arthritis from sitting on this cold, hard linoleum. I've tried pillows. I will do that this week, though!

Friday, I leave for Montpellier, France to visit my best friend, Kirsten, who is also studying abroad. I. CAN'T. WAIT. So that will be another several days senza update.

Did you know?

(This took me awhile to figure out about the geography of Italy...)

Tuscany is not a city. So when I say that I went to Tuscany, and visited several cities, don't be confused! Italy has 20 regions and within those regions are all the cities that we're familiar with. Rome is in the Lazio region. Toscana (Tuscany) is another region, and during our trip, we visited Montalcino and Siena.

Montalcino is the home of one of the most important wine producers in Tuscany, Castello Banfi. We got to visit and experience a wine-tasting and walk around the villa that houses wine tastings and a sort of gift shop. That was pretty cool. It was beautiful. More later.

Siena was amazing. To fully appreciate Siena you must:

-Learn a few basics.

-Know what a contrada is.

-Find out about the Palio.

(Lane and Barb, some day, we need to make a special trip to Siena to experience the Palio. I'm sure you'd love every second of it).

Anyway, make sure to check those links before the next post, because I'll be talking about those things as if you have a basic understanding. I know, perhaps it defeats the purpose of explanatory writing, knowing my audience, blah blah blah...I'm taking a short cut. 

I had a great time over the weekend, it was beautiful, and exciting to see what I've learned so much about. Oh yeah, in one of my classes, we talked a lot about Siena and the culture, so the trip to Siena had much more significance. Mid-terms this week. At this point, one down, one to go. After tomorrow, I'm good to go. After Thursday, I'm super-good to go.

I'm still having the best time, and I still miss everyone. Just wanted to let you know.

Un giorno nella vita.

As suggested, I'll start updating with some day-to-day adventures since, yes, every day is an adventure.

Well, today was any normal Tuesday. It's been getting colder at night and in the mornings and the government doesn't turn on the heat until...November 1st? Well, I got up and took a shower and got coffee with Jen on the way to school. We always stop at Mirko Bar which is right around the corner from "campus." I put "campus" in quotations because our "campus" is really a renovated villa (a large house) with a big cement wall and iron gate blocking it from the rest of the street. It's beautiful! Anyway, the bar is small, but it's always the same few baristas and they are so nice. They know our coffee orders. So we sat, enjoying our morning caffe and headed to class, Jen to her Human Politics class, me to Food and Wine.

Food and Wine was as usual today, an hour and half of the lesson dedicated to lecture, followed by a half hour break, followed by a professional cook coming in and preparing two regional dishes, paired with two wines that we all get to try. Today I didn't so much prefer either dish. One was a risotto, cooked in red wine and butter (yeah, I know, boo-hoo) and the other was a sliced veal with a mayonnaise spread that had lemon and tuna blended in to it, topped with capers; (again, boo-hoo). The wines were both red and very different from one another. I think I prefer whites.

After class, Donna and I made our way to Via del Corso, a long and prominent street in Rome that's famous for it's shopping. I was directed to this area in search of an art supply store. We found it, and it's fabulous! There are two parts to it,  two separate stores, actually. One is like Cappel's, where it had all the holiday decorations, it was great! This was the first sign of anything Halloween or Christmas; just another adjustment from seeing Halloween and Christmas decorations in August. Anyway, we passed all the fun and walked in to the art supply store and I got excited. They had EVERYTHING! 

Mom: They had a fair selection of beads, jewelry supplies, a great selection of books with things such as patterns and pictures and instructions for numerous things. I didn't look so closely, but there was quite a variety.

I ended up getting a sketchbook, markers and colored pencils. I can finally make some Roman art of my own, yeah! All in all this excursion was exciting and successful, I look forward to others. My roommates are starting to come home. And if you've seen the most recent post previous to this, you'd see that my internet spot is right by the door. It's almost dinner time and I have homework to do. Our house smells good.

Mama mia!

Wow, apologies for the lack of updates lately. 

The internet in Via Nomentana has been very tricky as of late. Also, due to my personal internet situation, I've come to avoid getting online at the apartment much anymore. Please, take a look at the one place where I get a connection, and one that isn't even ours:

Yes, that beautiful, spacious little corner on the floor is where I spend countless seconds catching up with friends and family back in the States. It kind of reminds me of the song, "In My Own Little Corner" from the Rogers and Hammerstein version of Cinderella.

Anyway, really, it's not that I don't care, it's just that I can only take so much of the cold, hard linoleum floor.

Enough of that, Rome is fabulous. Besides the fact that I've been sick for almost two weeks, I still love it here. I went to the doctor today for that little cough that just hasn't gone away, and boy did it make me appreciate what we have in the States. It's not that things are bad here, it's just not as easy; especially being a student abroad. It's alright though, I'm in a different country so of course I have to expect some speed bumps. Either way, I've been thinking lately about adjusting to life here. I feel like the way of life is very easy to adjust to, the pace, the style, the beauty. But of course, being from the United States, it can be a little more difficult to get used to. I hope that makes sense. I guess it's easier for some than others to just accept the fact that things are different, I just suppose that none of us thought it would be so different. I'm not complaining one bit, I love life here. In fact, (mom, dad, don't read the next line), I don't want to come home. Of course I miss home... I miss driving, I miss my friends, I miss my family and Drew, I even miss my unintelligent pets! I've gotten out of Cincinnati for once, and now I want to see what else there is out here. In the world. In Italy. It's all so fascinating and I feel like I could do this forever! 

Don't worry, I know that by December I'll be ready to come home... at least for a couple weeks ;)

Not much else to update on. It's been pretty low-key lately because I've been lacking energy from not going for more than a few minutes without coughing. BUT! In the upcoming weeks I want to take advantage of everything Rome has to offer. There are so many music festivals and clubs, performances and exhibits that are happening this month and I want to see them! I get to visit Kirsten in her world of Southern France in roughly TWO WEEKS! Ohh, I absolutely cannot wait. 

OK, now that I've updated sufficiently, there's not much to say at this point. I haven't been taking pictures because I haven't gone anywhere. I will make sure to document my experiences more thoroughly from now on, I know you've all been dying in anticipation. Not to worry, I won't keep you on pins and needles for long periods of time anymore. Expect more after the weekend.

Capri e' l'isola che non si scorda mai.

We saw that phrase on the awning of a little shop in Capri.

This weekend is hard to describe. I guess I could start by saying it was the embodiment of how I pictured Italy before I got here.

This was my first weekend away from Rome since we've been here, which is only three weeks, but it still felt very nice to get away. I actually didn't realize how busy, loud, and fairly chaotic Rome can be. We went to the region of Campania on Friday; and within that we visited the ancient ruins of Pompeii for half a day, made our way to Sorrento for the night, woke up early Saturday to make our way to the island of Capri for the rest of the day. 

Pompeii is definitely in the top of the coolest-things-I've-ever-seen list. I think, at first, I thought it would just be another boring tour, but there was absolutely nothing boring about this place. The most fascinating part about it is how much it has actually been preserved. When we were walking around, guided by our dear tour guide, Antonio, and hearing about what each structure was and how it was used, I could really get a picture of what life would have been like before 79 A.D. It was very surreal to be walking around the ruins of a city, a place where people lived and walked. There were remnants of things that equate our modern-day "fast food" restaurants, crosswalks, theaters, even brothels! Maybe the fact that we got lucky with the weather helped the enjoyment. It was warm, but cloudy and breezy, so we weren't sweating profusely. It really was incredible. Antonio was quite fun, also. He seemed pretty savvy on American pop music and bust out a few tunes as we were walking such as "Shut Up" by the Black Eyed Peas, and "Don't Stop the Music" by Rihanna, ha! I became his secretary throughout the tour, handling the map as he pointed to it and explained various things. At one point he said, "Where is my secretary? Come on, everyone, come to me!" (We were all walking at various paces and had headsets to hear Antonio tell us about the different sites). So he pulled me in front of him and asks,

"Do you have a boyfriend?"

"...Yes."

"Then why are you standing on a penis?"

Everyone laughs as we look down, only to see that I'm standing on carved picture of a penis. First of all, we were in the, sort of, "red light district" of the city; so Antonio continues to tell us that this particular marker was used by a lupa, (lit., "she-wolf," used to refer to the prostitutues), to let men know they were "available." And the fascinating part is really that this is all still here, and that we can know about it 2,000 years later. I have plenty of pictures on the Picasa link, so be sure to have a look-see. 

After a few hours in Pompeii, we hopped back on the charter bus (which we had taken from Rome) and made our way to Sorrento, where we stayed for the night. Dad, don't 

worry, we're starting to see where to money is going! This place was just beautiful. We were directly on the coast of the Mediterranean, on a cliff, overlooking the sea... just... perfect! After an early start to a long day, we didn't do much exploring, but the exploring we did was great. Sorrento seems like a quaint town that thrives a lot on tourism; not much to do, but plenty to see. Some of the girls and I could not stop talking about how content we were to be there. It was quiet and stunning and just so... Italian! We had a nice, included dinner at the hotel (very fancy) and had time to do whatever we pleased. 

Saturday morning we got up early to a complimentary breakfast that was full of beautiful pastries, fruit, bread, EGGS! (Haven't seen much of that lately), cereal and yogurt. Oh man, was it good. At 8:30 in the morning we made our way to a dock to board the boat that would take us to Capri. I'm not sure how long the ride actually was because I fell asleep. The inside of the boat was very much like a large airplane with the seating. You wouldn't have thought that you could still feel nauseous, but it happened. Sleeping helped keep it away. We made it to Capri by 11 or so, and Tom (the Student Services Coordinator of CEA) left us to our own devices on the island. He, first, gave us a quick rundown of how to get around, but we had to be discrete because you are not allowed to give information about the island unless you are a licensed tour guide. So we spared Tom putting himself in a situation where he could get arrested and dispersed until we were to meet back at 5pm. 

Where we docked was called the Marina Grande, I guess this was the lowest part of the island. Not much to see, just a few shops and restaurants. Here we dropped off our luggage for the day and took off to explore. Oh, well, when we first got there, the weather wasn't too great. It had rained a bit on our way there, but stopped when we arrived. It was still a bit cloudy, but the temperature was nice. The forecast hadn't been too promising, but not horrible. Well, we purchased tickets in advance to be able to take the cable car to Capri town, and from Capri town take the bus to get up to Anacapri, and then make our way down- (you need tickets for all the transportation; the island most definitely thrives on tourism). Our first stop was Capri. We didn't even realize it, but as we were going through a tunnel on the first part of the cable-car ride, the sun came out. When we got to Capri town (10 minute ride up), there was a terrace that gave an amazing view of the town below. There, we realized it was a beautiful start to a beautiful day. Jen, Donna, Stephanie and I ended up sticking together the majority of the day. We started by walking around, looking at the stores, window shopping and smelling the fresh waffle cones being made in the gelaterie. The whole place was full of designer shops and beautiful people, dressed to the nines. It's no joke that Italians take pride in their appearances. We stopped at a bar for the best panino and cannoli you'll ever have. We found a bench at the original terrace, overlooking the city and the sea, which is the picture at the very top. There we sat for a good hour, enjoying our food and the beauty of our surroundings. It was a moment where we all just sat quietly together in complete peace and contentment, just soaking in the scenery.

By then, it was probably about 1:30, and we decided to make our way, via bus, to Anacapri. Something I was dwelling on a bit on the way up was the fact that it seems as though life here, and a lot more of what I've seen, is part of the land. Things aren't destroyed to make room for inhabitants, the people took the land and made their lives fit to the curves of its body. It really hit me as we were driving up a narrow, windy road up the side of a mountain to get to the town above. We were let off at a place the was just bustling with activity; again, shops and restaurants all over the place. We set off to explore and see what Anacapri had to offer. We looked in some stores, really just taking our time and enjoying, what turned out to be, a beautiful day. We strolled down the streets, window shopping in stores such as BVLGARI and Prada and found some hidden alleyways and a fabulous little market that was tucked away in the curves of the town. 

Our main goal had been to find a place to go on a boat tour, but had no such luck. It actually just came to me that we never thought that it wouldn't be possible to get a tour of the coast, thousands of feet above the water. I guess our logic was left behind with our jaws, back at the window with the diamond the size of a quarter. Oh, well. As time passed us by, we came across the chair-lift that Tom told us about. We wanted to do it but weren't sure if it would be wise, seeing as it was a little after 3, or so, and we had to make our way back to the bottom of the island in a little over an hour. We decided to check out how long it would take, and after seeing it was an 8 euro ride, 12 minutes up and 12 minutes down, to see the entire island from a chair, we decided it was worth it. Boy, was it worth it. It was like a ski-lift, taking you up individually on a ride that allows you to see the entire island; the town, the hills, the sea. I mean, words just can't describe it. I felt like I was in a movie, in slow motion, panning over an incredible horizon. It was so peaceful in a chair by myself, being taken up the mountainside. After 12 lovely minutes, we were let off at the very top of the mountain, literally overseeing the ENTIRE island. .

After we took pictures and admired the mountain-top lounge areas, we made our way back down the lift and back to the Marina to meet the rest of the group. I can't think of a way to fully convey how much I enjoyed our whirlwind trip to Capri and the other parts of Campania. There are pictures to give a visual and this blog to add more description, but there's still no way to fully capture how wonderful this place truly is. As I get to experience something outside of Rome, I am getting to experience more of the beauty and richness that Italy has to offer. Alongside what I'm learning about the history and culture in my classes, I'm getting to experience it firsthand and I'm finally starting to feel like I'm not in a movie anymore.

Oh, and incase you were wondering: Capri e' l'isola che non si scorda mai, means, "Capri is the island that one can never forget."

Oh, don't worry.

Have no fear, I will do my best to update more often and include pictures in the posts to add a little spice and interest. But join me, for I've added another album. Ch-check it out and let me know what you think.

La differenza...

This whole experience, thus far, has been quite an adventure. 

I don't think I've been here long enough to manage through my thoughts and what I've been learning, because I haven't really processed it all quite yet. I had my "Living Italy" class, which is a class in which we'll be learning about the culture of Italy and touching on many areas such as government, music, cinema, culture differences and similarities, etc. 

The first day was yesterday, and he asked us, "How do you feel so far?" And we just had to write down how we feel so far as visitors. And while I was thinking about it, it really did hit me that we are just visitors. Yeah, we're staying here for four months, but on the other hand, we're staying here for four months. There are people who work for the CEA program who have lived here for 10+ years and are still learning all the time. It's hard to get out of the American mindset that we know everything, because whether we like to admit it or not, we do think that way. We think that everyone is like us if they have similar foods, or look like us, or have families like us. Wrong! The culture here is so different than I ever would have expected. I'm not sure if I can explain how or why quite yet, but it just is. The past two weeks have just been up and down with everyone trying to compromise with one another and learn about each other, while still keeping in mind that we are visitors in a foreign country and can't just do what we want. Things don't fly here the way they do in the United States. And as I've observed, some people have a hard time accepting that.

It's all very fascinating and I love it. It's not hard to get used to life over here because the Romans really know how to do it and, in the words of Tim Gunn, (whose twin I saw the other day), "...Make it work." 

le Foto!

I have pictures! FINALLY!

Just click here and step in to my world for a little bit.

Anyway, life has been interesting thus far. I'm still in a somewhat dream-like state everywhere I go. I need to snap out of it, only so I'll be able to fully soak in my surroundings.

I don't think I realized how big Rome actually is. I mean, there is the main city of Rome, ancient Rome, and all of its surrounding neighborhoods. The thing I'm appreciating is living in a residential neighborhood. There is a lot going on all around here, but still has a sort of calm and sophistication of families and all kinds of people. Some of the people from the CEA program and I were talking about how Rome has so much to offer that not even four months will do it justice. And that's okay, it's exciting. It's a reason to come back. But the exciting thing is that even within the country, every city has something different to offer. Every city has it's own adventure and own culture and personal beauty, and that's what I can't wait to explore!

I so very much appreciate the way that the CEA program is structured. They value education in a practical, and very real, sense. For instance, in my Italian class, we'll be going outside the classroom and taught to find our way around the city, the market, the transportation, as well as pairing up with students from an Italian university and doing a conversational partnership for each person to improve their foreign language skills. We aren't just going to be sitting in the classroom, attempting to improve our Italian, we'll really be using it, and that is exciting. 

Yesterday I feel as though I had a very Italian moment. I didn't have class until 11:30 so I got up a little early and made my way towards campus. On the way, there is a little bar (where you get coffee, cold drinks, small items) right around the corner. I was on my own at this point, so I stopped to get some breakfast. I ordered un caffe' latte freddo (cold latte; they don't do "iced" here) and a croissant. I sat outside at one of the tables under an umbrella, enjoying my italian breakfast as I read my book. It was the first time I was able to gather my thoughts, at least a little, and really just sit and observe my surroundings. It was almost like I had a little bit of a re-boot. 

They weren't kidding when they told us the first week or two would be challenging. It most definitely has been, but it's all a learning process with plenty of trial and error, and we're among a wealth of history and beauty. It's hard not to fall in love at first sight! It's hardly been 2 weeks and we still have plenty ahead of us. 

Don't worry about me, I'm just going down to the Tiber river later tonight. What are you doing?

I still haven't gotten over jet lag.

Man, it's rough. I've never had to adjust to such a big time change. Only six hours, yes, but it's still six hours. It's just after 7pm; my roommates and I just finished washing and drying the dishes after a nice home-cooked meal (thanks, Nina!) Hold on, did I say washing and drying? Yeah, I did. We don't have a dishwasher, or a dryer. The Europeans really know how to conserve, it's great.

There are so many interesting differences between the culture of the Stati Uniti (United States) and Italia. Here, in Italy, they really do take their time with everything. For example, when you're at a restaurant they don't bring out a table's food all together, it's brought out as it's ready. At the end of the meal you have to ask for the conto (check), they won't bring it to you, it's considered rude. So before you know it, you've been sitting around for over two hours, thoroughly enjoying your company. Oh yeah, and no one eats before 8pm. 

The days here seem to move at a slower pace, but still feeling productive and incredibly active. Italians keep busy, but take ample time to rest during the natural valley in your body's activity. Stores shut down, the door man goes home, and the city sleeps for several hours. Once we've taken the time to relax around nostra casa (our house), it's 7:30 or so and you can begin your evening. 

Apparently, most everyone in the city is still on vacation until this weekend. This week, come September, shops will reopen, more people will be in the streets, returning to work, school begins, and the city becomes alive again. I didn't even realize, until someone pointed it out, that most shops around here are closed. BUT! I happen to live in Nomentana, which is a more residential area, rather than a tourist attraction. I enjoy it thoroughly. So things in the heart of Rome are still bustling with families and couples and people from all over the place. 

As I continue with this blog, I would, ideally, like to focus on different aspects of Roman/Italian culture that I've observed, as well as highlights from all the fun activities! Before I end, I do have to mention the Trastevere area. It is a strip right along the river, full of drink stands, merchandise stands and game stands. Basically everything. We went here last night and walked around, really just exploring the area. Three other girls, Jen, Nina and Nicole, and I happened to meet an incredibly nice Italian couple who gave us some tips on places to go, such as discotecas. They were so nice and helpful and just downright friendly. Along with finding a fun and vibrant place to go at night, I think talking to Titziana and Massimo (!) gave us confidence in approaching locals and pushing us to swallow our fear and talk to people. They are all so willing to talk to you in their broken English and listen to your stuttering Italian; especially when you compliment their shoes.

Word of the Day: 

ghiaccio (ghee-AH-choh): ice

Completely rare to be served ice with a drink. Most likely you will have to ask if you want it.

Pictures are taking too long to upload at the moment, but have no worries. Perhaps later tonight I'll put some up.

Buon giorno da Roma!

I'M HERE! Yes, I made it. 

My roommates (housemates?) and I are about to go find a cafe, but I wanted to touch on a few things that stuck out to me so far, that I will elaborate on later:

Italians really do have the fashion thing going for them. Even some older, grandma-type ladies were sporting fresh kicks. These are my kind of people.

There is graffiti EVERYWHERE. I'm not kidding. It's a sort of odd mixture to see the art among the old structures.

There must be no rules to driving in Italy. These people do not, and I repeat, DO NOT hold back on aggression and impatience.

Our apartment is. absolutely. stunning. And I mean, you have no idea. Just wait until I get the pictures up; most of which will most likely not do it's beauty any justice. It's spaceous, high ceilings, lots of windows with your typical Italian-style shutters...I mean, really. 

My roommates (housemates?) are all so nice! I have a feeling it will be a very pleasant and exciting 4 months. But really, I miss you guys.

Sono pronto!

I'm ready.

Today was stressful. I'm learning a lot about myself and how I. Hate. Packing. That is tacked on the list, right next to "I. Hate. Moving." Who would have thought trying to pack your life into a suitcase would be so hard. Right.

But I'M DONE! Hallelujah! I will be sitting on my plane to Philedelphia in just 12 hours. And in 17 hours I will be sitting on my plane to Rome...!!!

Today I said good-bye to Kirsten, my best friend since 7th grade, and we finally got to say, "See you in Europe!" How often do you get to speak those beautiful words to your best friend? (Kirsten is studying in Montpellier, France for the year and she leaves in a little over a week).

Anyway, I just wanted to update one last time before I get to Italy because who knows when I'll be on the internet next. This is also helping to relieve some stress. Whatever; I'll be in Italy soon and it will all be ok, and the next thing I know, it will be December.

OH YEAH. Send love, encouragement$, and rants to:

(my school address)

Briana Cohen

c/o CEA GlobalCampus Rome
Viale di Villa Mossimo, 29
00161 Roma, Italia


-or-


(cell phone)

+1 765 252 0325
This is my "U.S. Virtual number." Call this and you pay whatever domestic fees according to your service provider, and at a lower (but still not cheap) price for me to receive the call.

+39 3357641146
My Italian number! Call this and you, of course, pay whatever long distance fees, but the incoming call is free for me. So, if you're feeling generous and want to give me (and by me, I mean my dad) a gift, call this number. But I will understand if you call the first.

Either way, Europe does have the internet, so I'll have access to email, facebook, this blog. Don't worry your pretty, little heads- you can still reach me.

I love, and will miss, you all! Ciao!

Oh yeah...

A few more things, in case they haven't been drilled in to your heads as I've seen you before my departure...

1) I leave in 3 days? (Monday)

2) We've received our housing assignments, orientation schedule and many other fun, informational emails from our advisors abroad.

3) I'm living with...6...7? other girls in, what I'm assuming is, a suite-style apartment in Rome. (!!!)

4) RE: #3: I've talked with several of them, and they seem great! Of course everyone is excited; it would be unhuman not to be.

That's it, I think. I'll make sure to have a post with my Italian address and phone number(s), which will need some explaining. Either way, I'll put that up soon. So don't worry mom, grandma, etc...You can still send me stuff.

Like a brick wall.

First of all, big thanks to the boyfriend, Drew, for putting up with me today. You're the best, baby!

Today sucked. 

Drew helped me move all of my junk out of my apartment and then drop it off at my parent's houses.  Why did that suck? I hate moving stuff. I think I had a minor melt-down in the midst of it all. It's all so tedious and things get messy; I hate it, I hate it, I hate it.

But on the bright side, all my stuff is out! Ok, not all of it, but most of it. I plan on returning to the apartment tomorrow to clean so I can officially be done with University Park Apartments and our musty, humid rooms. Bleh. 

Anyway, I'm starting to feel a little better about finally having all my stuff in one place. And by one place I mean my mom's house in addition to my dad's. Either way, now it's my turn to go through it all and see what is coming with me, staying, or being permanently exiled from my life. Yay, organization!

But really, today sucked because it was the last big chunk of time I am able to spend time with Drew until December. Sad face. Needless to say, part of the melt-down included the realization of not seeing my boyfriend for three and a half months. Not that it's the end of the world, but we've never spent any extended time apart from one another; so I figure a lot of it is the shock of not being able to just physically be together. Kind of like when Kirsten, Marissa and I all parted ways when we started college. Boy, did we cry. It was kind of funny, really. But we did all that girly stuff, saying good-bye as if it were the last time we'd ever see each other. Then we realized our friendship was stronger than distance and it's all been ok from there. I guess? Whatever.

Today is continuing to suck only because CDs are taking 30 minutes to import to my computer. This is really lame.

When in Rome...

I'm exhausted and should be sleeping because I'm helping Rose open Taza at 6:30am. Gosh, I adore her.

But really, I was just browsing the CEA (my study-abroad organization) site, perusing for new and exciting info. I struck gold! My academic schedule for my fall semester in Rome, Italy (!) has been posted. It will be as follows:

Monday/Wednesday:
11:30-1pm Intermediate Italian I
1:30-3pm Living Italy: Contemporary Culture & Society
(You know, like, eating gelato, seeing an opera, taking a cooking class; Italian things for class credit).

Tuesday:
9:30-12 The Culture of Food & Wine in Italian Society
(This was the deal breaker especially since it was my second choice to The Papacy & The Roman Church. I'm not complaining).

Thursday:
9:30-12 Global Media: The Art of Persuasion
(The one class that will actually help me advance in my Communication degree, ha!)

No classes Friday, of course. Ah, well, as they say, ("...do as the Romans do.")

This is the place.

This is the place where I will share my thoughts, routines, joys, disappointments, lessons, and overall greatness- hopefully- of studying abroad in Rome, Italy.

I leave August 25th, 2008, approximately six weeks from two days ago.

Voglio di essere in Roma.