Pepe's World Adventures

My Return to Italy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 04:42:00 +0000

So its been one year since I was in Italy...and this is the story of how return all happened.
After graduation I experienced a lot of emotions that I had never felt before. I knew a few things however that I was not going to settle for something less than exactly what I wanted to do. The problem I had was I could not decide on what exactly it was that I wanted to do.
I knew I wanted to travel and go back to Firenze so I decided to just buy the tickets and do it. When I went to Munich for Oktoberfest I met a guy who was a perpetual lover of life and traveler.

He said that the hardest thing to do was to buy the tickets but when you do everything just falls into place. So I decided to try out his philosophy. I went to Washington DC and that was great everything went smooth and it fulfilled one of my goals to see the world.
Then I bought my ticket to Italy and began to set up meetings and make loose plans about what and were I was going to do.

Things went horribly wrong for the first three days and I experienced some nasty emotions and feelings. But they made me stronger and made the rest of my trip sooo much better because I was able to cherish every moment there after and I can sincerely say I had the time of my life. I experienced freedom, peace, harmony, and genuine happiness about being alive.

I knew that this place was special but in these last two weeks I confirmed it and reaffirmed it.

Well, about what I did. I went to one of my friends house and she welcomed me with open arms and with so much love that I was overwhelmed with her hospitality. Here roommates were really cool too. She sleep on another bed and gave me hers and those two nights I slept like an angel. I had a key and I would take care of business during the day and meet with people and I felt like i belonged there like I was part of the hustle and bustle of Florence.
I vividly remember walking through Piazza della Republicca and thinking to myself wow I really really love this city.

Everything about it appeals to me. The aperitivo, the architecture, the laid back attitude, the passion for food, and so much more.

Granted there are somethings that I don't enjoy but they are minor in contrast to all the other things I like.

It is my belief that every city has a personality and if we travel enough we can find our soul mate city. From all my travels I believe Florence is my soul mate.

Later on in the first week I went to Parma to see how REAL Parmesano Reggiano was made. I got schooled and it was really interesting to learn how much is needed to make this cheese. On the trip there I met this really cool girl from Chicago who was really into film making so the next day we made a film about Florence. It was fun and we went to this restaurant with one of her friends that only had locals and it was amazing of course! We hung out for like three hours just talking and enjoying the company of everyone. This no rush let me get to know you attitude/way of life is what I crave and so much love about life. I know we can't be like that that ALL the time but when I live in a society that doesn't every take the time that's horrible. At least for me it is.

Then I met a friend of a friend and I showed her around Florence and for me it was a great pleasure. I learned from this trip that I really enjoy sharing with others my happiness. If I can do anything to make the life of someone else more enjoyable I will do it. I learned a lot from here perspectives and viewpoints of life. This was another one of my goals that I knew I wanted to accomplish: meet interesting people.

I hung out and cooked with my new friends that I was staying with and I felt like family with them I felt like I was part of the household even though I was on the couch. We would cook together and have nice dinners accompanied by guests or just us talking about random things.

I had my final meetings and headed for Naples on Wednesday. I leave Firenze nervous because I have to go to another station but it turns out that the train is an hour and a half late. So I wait and wait until it finally arrives.
I met american tourist from Pennsylvania and talked with some Italians who spoke English one of them was going to Naples and she ended up being really helpful and took me to all the places i need to go.

I arrive at the Hostel and am welcomed very enthusiastically which was really nice after an extremely long trip. I made friends with a Swiss guy who was very interesting and we go to eat a pizza. It wasn't a "famous" pizzeria or anything like that but it was amazingly great.

I slept well that night and the next day me and the swiss guy went to explore the city. We went to Castel D'Ovo which is on the water and that was cool. From there we walked up the main shopping street of naples which kept going and going. We turn off the main road to find a path that will take us to the top of the mountain to go to the Castel Sant'Elmo. Here is where the fun begins we reach a T intersection and start going to the sides in search of a way up.
We soon realize that we are in a Naples neighborhood. The scenery was truely unique and I begin to get nervous so I ask a lady and she points me into a building and says go inside and go up. I couldn't do anything else other than trust her and we go in and it was an appartment building that connected to the side of the mountain and that's how we go up there then we hit our next obstacle which was to reach the castel itself. We go up this one road full of weeds but soon turn back then we go up again some windy neighborhood path that takes us right to the foot of the Castel.

I am about to land so I will post the second part later.

My Last Entry

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 17:38:00 +0000

12/24/08
I woke up late repacked my luggage so that it could meet the specifications of the airline. Then we went to some dinner and I had a ham and cheese omelette with home fries. I missed American breakfasts and they never disappoint me. After that I got a ride to JFK and hopped on a plane to go home FINALLY!!
Now I am on the plane updating my blog because I have a lot of time to kill.

So I will talk about some of my thoughts. I found that I wasn't really affected by "Culture Shock" too much. Before I came home I was running images in my mind of what America looked like...no not my sister. Muah! I love you big sis. So this helped me cope with my new reality. I think that the reason things don't really upset me or bother me is because I have learned the meaning of the serenity prayer. Help me change the things I can accept the things i cannot and the have the wisdom to know the difference. I find my self getting in touch with a higher being that grants me the wisdom to know the difference.
Oh another things is that I think that everyone who knew me before I left for Europe is going to have to get to know me again because I am no longer the same person. Even my family will see the difference. I see the difference in me when I was interacting with the people here in NYC. I don't believe or see things the same way anymore and it's kind of cool.

12/23/08
Today I went with my friend to the Mexican Embassy to take care of some Visa business. But about 30 minutes into the waiting I realized that these Mexican like everything else are going to take their sweet time to help her. So I left and went to explore NYC on my own. I went to see the Empire State Building which was really big...duh it is the tallest building. Then I went to look for the Chrysler building but got side tracked at Zara's and H&M. I looked around and then made my way to the building but before that I stopped at Grand Central Station. This place was really cool because it was made in a Roman architectural style and inside it had the cosmos up on the ceiling. Then I wanted to make my way back to 5th Avenue so I could do my shopping hahaha yeah right. It's the worlds most expensive place to shop! I then ran into a street called Little Brazil and I go down it with the intention of eating Brazilian food but instead have a Cuban Sandwich.
I go in and it's bustling. I really enjoyed just watching all the action and hearing the Cubans talk. So I ask the guy for an authentic Cuban dish and he say's the sandwich. Then he points at some other meats and I point at one...so I get a Peppersteak Sandwich when I was under the impression that I was going to get a Cuban Sandwich. But he doesn't give me the peppersteak and makes me another one. I thought that was really cool of him. This is an example of "American Service" had I been in Europe I would have had to eaten a peppersteak sandwich. But anyways I wait and he brings out some carnitas and some cured banana of some sort. I then talk to some lady who walks in and we shoot the wind. It turns out she gets the wrong sandwich too so we get a good laugh out of all this. Oh and I learned that if you want to get rid of the smell of alcohol in your mouth eat a few grains of coffee and that will eliminate any trace of alcohol in your mouth.
Then I was thirsty but I didn't want to drink there so I literally went next door to an Irish Pub and got a Guinness of course. It was my first legal one. I took a picture and I shot the wind with some guy sitting next to me and the bartender lady. I ended up paying 9 buck including the tip, that was expensive considering it was about 7 dollars in Europe with no tip. Then I met up with my friend and one of her friends at the pub. They ate a burger which was really good. We then headed through Times Square to Rochefeller Plaza to meet up with her sister. We go and see the famous Christmas tree and the ice skating ring. Then we go to a Chinese food restaurant and I helped them eat some Orange Chicken. From there we went on a mission to see Central Park. We walked up 5th Avenue and got to see some really cool store displays that were impressive and of course all the expensive designer stores.
We finally reach the park and it was beautiful it was what they make christmas cards out of it was so beautiful. The pond was frozen over and the trees had snow on them it was really a sight to see. We then quickly made it out of the park because I felt like my toes were going to fall off. We go into a cafe and I get a glass of...carrot juice. I know it's weird but that's what I was craving. We had some time to kill so we just talked for a while.
We met up with her sister and we were going to watch a movie but that all fell through so we just went home. I again was really tired. We had a cheese pizza at the house but I didn't really like it too much. I could really tell that the quality of the ingredients were extremely inferior. I mean it wasn't tasty at all. Actually it sucked I am sorry to say it but really did.
After that I went to sleep.

12/22/08
I woke up with a light headache but after eating an apple and some cereal and a lot of water I was okay. I took a train into New York City by myself because I was going to meet up with my friend in the city. On my way there we start talking to some guy who played in the NFL with the Rams and the 49ers back in the late 80's actually 87 because I remember telling him that that was when I was born. I learned about what he was doing and I shared with him about what I had done in Europe and it turns out that he was out there too. He has a foundation called Atheletic Leadership Incorporated, which helps kids get on track for college if they have athletic talent. He was checking out soccer teams out in Europe so that he can start working with soccer over here in the states. His name was Tajacka Sapp. His cousins and other family was in the NFL too and he some how was related to the Sapp's.
Anyways I part with him and I go to my rendezvous point and meet up with my friend. She had to run some errands so I joined her. We got a cab and went to the Supreme Court where she had to take care of some business. It was really cool because the building looked just like all the Roman architecture that I had just left. It was the most appropriate way for me to ease into my new world.
We then went to the World Trade Center spot and then to some park to see the statue of liberty. I didn't go to it but al least I got to see it. That was good enough for me, I'll see it next time.
Some where in between all of this I had brunch at one of my friend's favorite place. I had an omelette and a burger with fries. MMMM American food!! I missed breakfast sooo much and this tasted glorious. The food was actually really good. Then we went to my friends old high school and by this point my toes were numb and it was getting hard to walk...no joking either. So we went inside a market and I tried to warm up and get circulation back to my toes. Then we walk around some more and make it inside a Starbucks and I get a coffee to warm up and it did the job alright.
We then went to Chinatown, Little Italy, and East Village. I did a lot sight seeing and it was just really cool to see how similar and different New York is. We walked into a Thailand Cafe and I order a Papaya Salad that was disappointing because it wasn't spicy enough. But we ended up staying there until late because we got into some really intellectual conversation. It was basically discussing the same thing we always discuss and we still don't agree with each other. But I respect her points of view.
We then go to meet up with her sister at some restaurant called Milon which was Indian food. It was actually really good and I liked it a lot. We then made out way to some comedy show. It was really entertaining, it wasn't by any means big and it wasn't full. It was my first time to a stand up comedy show. After the show we go home and I pass out I was really tired. During our travels around the city we used the subway. Which was really cool because it was all stainless steal and I don't know it was cool because I think it was the original. The way it operates seems confusing but I never worried about a thing while I was there because I had my friend to do all the thinking which was really cool.

12/21/08
Today was my big day of departure and I had to prepare myself for this. I called up my family and friend in New York to confirm all the details of my trip. I then went to the train station to get a train to the airport. I was there around 1:30ish and I had to wait a little bit to check in my stuff. I do and then I move on to the security place, I get my tax refund money for my purchases and then went to get something to eat. It had lasagna which wasn't that bad. Then I went to my terminal and waited.
At the terminal I ran into another American student who studied in some small town in Italy for the same amount of time that I did. So we talked and she became my new best friend for the next nine hours of flight.
We watched 50 Cent's movie and talked a lot since there wasn't much to do.
Then I got into JFK around 9:30pm and the Border Patrol people take me back into the office to clear my name!! I waited there for a little bit and then they let me go once I cleared my name! I was annoyed but I understand that I do have a common first and last name and not all Jose Sanchez's are good boy's like me. hahaha
So I get my stuff and I meet my friend who takes me to her house. I get my first welcome of New York when I walked outside because I felt like I got slapped in the face by the cold. It was literally freezing cold. Something like 16 degrees Farenheit during the day! That's insane!!
But thanks to my heavy duty European suede jacket there was very little the cold could do to me.
I knocked out when I got to her house. I hadn't really slept in the plane so that I could easily adjust to the new time zone. Oh and a funny note is that for about 20 hours I didn't see sunlight! This was because I left at night and arrived at night.

12/20/08
I got up and went to see the Christ by Michelanglo at the church of Santo Spirito that I couldn't see the day before. I then went to get my last gelato.
Then I went to Sant Ambrogio to say goodbye to the people that I would buy my stuff from. Then I went to San Lorenzo to do the same. On my way over to meet my friend I stopped at the Baptistry. It was on my to do list and I finally checked it off before I left. Then I met up with my friend and we went to the hotel to get my stuff.
I got my stuff and booked a hostel for that night in Roma. I go to the station and wait with my friend until the train comes. I almost got on the wrong one but luckily I double checked.
So I say goodbye to my last friend and I get on the train. Well let me tell you about this train. It was the cheapest one and it took me 4 hours to get to Rome because it stopped at many cities along the way. I did some reading and sleeping along the way. I wasn't that bored actually I remember thinking to myself this isn't the definition of fun but I'll find the joy in it.
So I finally get into Roma and I gather my stuff and head towards my hostel. It was close and I had a little bit of trouble finding it but thanks to my preparations I had the phone number of the hostel and I called it. I was proud of myself. I check-in and then head out to find some food. I end up at some self-service heat in the microwave food joint which was alright but noting special or really good. I just ate because I needed a good solid meal that was going to hold me up for the next day.
I get back, take a shower and get into bed around 8:45pm.

I listen to music for a long time and I talked with this Australian girl that was telling me about here adventures in South East Asia. She was really cool and invited me out to go clubbing with her and some other Australians that she had met.
I finally dose off and fall asleep.

12/19/08
I get up at 10:30am and move out to a friend's hotel. It was just us two and we decide to go out and do all the things that we wanted to do but didn't get around to.
We went to Michelangelo's house but it was closed. Then we went to Santa Croce's Christmas festival and I had a Wurstel which was really good by the way. Then we went to look for some shoes for her and ended up going to San Lorenzo to look for some clothes. We ended up going to the Accademia to say goodbye to David and I bought some souvenirs from there. I then went to get my face shaved at a barbershop which was really cool. We then went to Santo Spirirto for Mass and it was really cool to listen to an Italian mass and get to see the church that was originally designed by the same guy who built the Duomo.

Afterwards for dinner we met up with my last roommate Nick for an apperitivo. It was at this place that everyone talked about called Moyo. I finally went there on my last day in Firenze. It was actually really good I had a Cabernet Sauvignon Wine from Napa that I really enjoyed. Along with the food which was really savory and overall good.
Then we walked around aimlessly towards our hotel and we had some or our last Firenze gelato at this place called Grom. I didn't have anything no that I remember but Nick got a Coca Cola and my friend she got a hot chocolate. We then walked back I said goodbye to my last roommate he got all worked up and sad.
I told him to be strong and that I would see him later. Then I went to sleep to get ready for another day...my last day.

12/18/08
Woke up took my test which was really simple and straight forward. Came home slept until noonish. Went out to eat with Polly, Nick, and his brother. Came home packed some more cleaned. Polly gave me a hug for no reason and I got all watery eyes. I can already tell it's not going to be easy....4pm.

We go to school and take some pictures outside of our school and then make our way inside. Everyone is looking good and I am not too far behind. Then what we all dreaded the first person to go...and it was Polly one of the most loved kids on the block. Everyone liked him and he made you feel so happy by being around him. He said goodbye in the room but I walked outside to tell him goodbye and that's when I got sad.
I went to one corner of the building and gathered myself it was weird, but that was just the beginning of a long night...
Then I went back and we watched some pictures from the photography class and a slide show of our quarter.

Then I was volunteered to dance because everyone found out that I danced Salsa.. So I didn't plan out a single thing as usual and I just let it flow. So I go up and I look for some merengue song and I chose Suavemente by Elvis Crespo. Then I tell everyone this is a partner dance and I can't do it by myself. So Brian volunteers and I put on a show and throw some improvised moves and it was caught on film my one of my friends.

Then we are done and we meet up for dinner...but before that me and Melissa go on a mission to buy a red coat that she was debating about buying all day. So we rush to San Lorenzo and barely make it in time to get the coat. It was going to be her last opportunity to get it and we went on a mission.

We then went to this restaurant which was absolutely the most horrible meal I have had this whole trip! Except for the tiramisu dessert that was alright. The potatoes were soggy and cold along with the chicken which was tasteless and dry. Oh man after 4 months of exceptional food this was a real big let down.

So we took a bunch of pictures and then parted ways again. I went over to the Genori girl's house and had some wine and just hung out. We then decided to go out to Club 21 and we made our way there.

I got my dance on and it was crazy to see how the Italians just swarm the girls from all angles!! I felt like such a ladies man HAVING to dance with like 3 or 4 girls just so that the Italians wouldn't. Poor me hahah. But like everything it came to an end and I went home. But that wasn't where it ended.
I went to bed then Brian comes in and says goodbye and I couldn't sleep as it is and I get out of bed when Nick comes back and I join them in the living room...3am

Then we start talking the rivers start to flow and we reminisce on the good times we had together. We missed Polly a LOT and that was probably one of the things that brought us the greatest sadness. We then kept talking and the then the girls from the third floor were playing some music and we go up there and they were bawling. I wasn't sad to see them go because I never really connected with them. I was sad to see Florence go and Brain leave.
Then he left and me and Nick were left we were there for each other to comfort each other in this time of sorrow...4am
Then some others left and just said goodbye.
I ended up going to sleep around 5:30am.

12/17/08
Today I met up with my friend from Pisa. We walked around and just talked. It was cool to hang out with her friends as well. Then I met Nick at the train station and said goodbye to him. He was on his way to Venice for a few days.
Then I went to school did some online work/facbooking and then I went to Santo Spirito but it was closed. So I got this really good panino and then went towards town.
I didn't know what I was going to due but I just walked and before you know it I was inside the Uffizi Gallery. I got to see the Botticelli's, Leonardos, Raffaels, and an awesome painting by Michaelangelo. I took my time and had a nice relaxing time.
I then went to Sant Ambrogio and got some Aleatico Liquor....this stuff is an elixir for me it's so amazingly good!!
Then I walked home exhausted as can be because I have been walking all day trying to soak in everything around me.

We then went to eat at the Yellow Bar. Which was the same place we ate at when we all got together about 4 months ago. It was really good what I ate it was eggplant tallitelle with tomato sauce and mint.
Then I went home and packed and stayed up thinking about a lot of things...oh and I studied for an hour for my test tomorrow.

I am thankful for being here and for the opportunity to foster some wonderful friendships.

12/16/08
I had my Food and Wine test today and it wasn't that bad actually. I only studied for it about an hour but it was easy. Afterwards I got online and called home and did some facebooking.
Then I went home hung out with the guys and then I went out to an aperitivo with the girls from Genori. It was really good but this time I wasn't excited to go just because I knew what to expect. However, I decided to try something new and I got a Belgian Beer called Cinay...it was sooo good. It was 7% so it was strong but the flavor totally undermined the alcohol which was awesome!
Then we came back and I drank some wine with one of my upstairs neighbor and we had a heart to heart sipping on some wine. I felt like such an adult it was crazy. I thought to myself, "So this is what "adults" do drink wine and talk about stuff." Then Nick came back from his day trip and the rest of my roommates also rolled in a little while later.
We talked a bit then me and Nick went for a stroll around the main sites of Firenze walking and sipping on some stogs that he brought from Rome. Again I felt really mature talking to him as we walked through the streets of Firenze. It was cool spending time with him because we have been through a lot and we can relate on a lot of subject matters.
Then we came home and got ready to go out to B-Bop to listen to some Beatles. We get there and I get a Hefenwiesen and drink it like water. I was so full from out aperitivo that I didn't feel a thing. Then he got the idea of playing Beirut so we down our drinks and start a game. I lost my first two but then I redeemed myself on the 3rd game. We played and drank and had a grand ol time. Then Polly came out and that's when I won. Oh man it was glorious!!
I am going to recount it just so I can remember it and plus I got it on video too. So when me and Polly beat Nick it was gloriously awesome hahaha because they had three cups left and I bounce my ball in one cup and then Polly made it in the same cup!! Victory!! Polly picked me up as if we just won the the lottery we were screaming, shouting, yelling, hootin, hollerin, laughing, well you get the point. I was on a table laying down and I remember trusting him with my life for a split second. It was a crazy feeling. I thought wow I about 3 feet from the ground and I am not afraid, I closed my eyes as I rejoiced and celebrated and it was a lot of fun.

Then we played another two girls from our school and on our first round I make it in one cup and then he made it in the same cup!! In the East coast that is an automatic victory so we were again celebrating like maniacs. Matter of fact I got a hilarious video of this moment. It's worth a million bucks to me. Then we go home after a while and go to sleep.

12/15/08
Got up at noonish and I went with my roommates to Sant Ambrogio for lunch. We had a really great lunch for cheap. Afterwards me and Nick wandered back taking our time to go to school. I ran into one of the girls from Dublin and then into Nick my roommate who was running errands.
One of the things that stood out the most was the fact that I have been running into people I know for the past week or so. I really love that about Firenze. It makes me feel like I am part of the community. I walk around taking in the sights sounds and smells and I run into people I know on multiple occasions.
Anyways, after a nice relaxing stroll I made it to school and I got online. I printed up my flight itinerary and I got really sad and took some deep breaths because this was it. I hadn't printed them out until now because I didn't want to face the reality but I can't help it anymore.
After I was done with school I went to visit a friend at a shop and we talked with him for a bit. I am building relationships with the people of Firenze so that when I come back I will know people and have a network to fall back on.
Then after we were done talking with him we went ice skating and met up with some more people. It was so much fun I only fell once and kind of fell a second time. Other than that I was melting the ice left and right. I got the hang of it pretty quick and I tore it up!! It was a nice big group of friends and we had a really great time.
On our way back I helped some lost asians find the train station. That made my day because I know that they appreciate it and I appreciate when others help me so I want to give back.
Then we went to one of our favorite restaurants called casalinga.
By the time we were done we were so tired/lethargic. We blamed all the exercise from the ice skating. We got home and then suddenly I got energized, so I stayed up for a while talking to Nick M. about our experience abroad and see how we've changed.

Last Days of December

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 11:17:00 +0000

12/14/08
I wake up around noon and I take have lunch with the friends I made in Dublin. The three of us went to Yellow Bar and we had some pasta.
Then I meet up with the rest of my people at Santa Croce and we got to some stores to shop. When I was at the curiosity shop the owner told us of a place to eat like kings. So we went and we ate like royalty. Now let me explain what we got your going to be amazed. We started off with some sparkling white wine called Proseco. Then came the red wine from Puglia which is from southern Italy and is strong bodied. The we had fresh mozzarella and proscuito that was really savory. Then came the first course pasta which was Tortelloni filled with Rissoto di Spinach and Tartufo which cost hundreds of dollars per ounce. Then the second which was a meat dish consisting of beef with grilled ham slices on top. The meat was super soft and delectable. Then another bottle of wine came through. Then the dessert was an assortment of Tiramisu, chocolate cake that was still warm, and some sort of flan. Then we followed that with a digestivo which is basically a liquor. We had Grappa, which is like vodka that thats made from grapes. Then we had Mirtha from Sardinia which had an awesome smell and flavor of berries. Then Oranchello which is basically alcohol with a flavor of a special small orange. Finally something called Aleatico this was orgasmic!! It was an elixir of some sort it even lifted my spirit up if you know what I mean. It must have been an aphrodisiac. During my meal I had a food orgasm. No joke this was one of the best meals EVER!
So the time came for the bill we never looked at a menu the owner just brought us food. So we didn't know what to expect. In my mind I speculated a bill of around 300 Euros or 360 Dollars. Considering all the food we got and liquor we drank.
The bill came out to 20 Euros a person or 22 dollars!!!!!! I was in border line shock. I couldn't believe it. I mean this place was elegant and really nice and we only paid for what one plate would have cost. I knew we were going to get a discount but this was a super discount!! We left in absolute ecstasy. We got home and tried to watch a movie but we were too relaxed and tired to stay awake.

I toasted to life, friends, family, and the future at our dinner. I felt so thankful to be out there and with great company. I am so thankful to be able to experience this and be able to share it with those who care about me.

12/13/08
I woke up late just cuz. Then we cooked an awesome breakfast here with the roommates all together. It was eggs with potatoes and peperoni. mmm good. I love breakfast. Anyways, enough about food for a minute. So I had to shave but I don't have any shaving cream...so I decided that now would be a great time to get an old fashioned shave from a barbershop. So I went on a mission to find this place at the edge of the city wall to the Porta Romana. I took my time soaking up the sights and the water...then I finally get there and the guy is locking up to close down and wasn't going to open again for another two hours.
So I was across the street from the Bobili Garden and I had told myself that I had to go back one more time to see the far side of the garden. This place is like Disneyland you can't do it all in one day without dropping dead. So I went all alone with just me and my music. I had such a peaceful walk and I cleared my thoughts to the fullest. I felt real peace just wandering through nature. I now understand why gardens bring joy to people. Because nature is pure and all good that is the energy we get from it and therefore feel in peace.
I found a really cool fountain that goes down a hill and has water falls at every step. From there I walked out to another garden called Barbini. It had one of the most beautiful panoramic views I have seen. It was really amazing to wander through this garden. I can only imagine what it looks like in the spring when all flowers are blooming.
Then I was on my way back when I remembered that there was another barbershop man by Santa Croce. So went there and got my shave. It was quite the unique experience. The warm latter and the intimidating blade made for an interesting combo. But all in all he did a very good job and I was really happy with his work.
Then me and one my friends from the house wanted to go to Piazza Michelangelo but instead we decided to wait for my roommate Nick from Rome who was on his way up to Firenze. We decide to go on a mission to find the ice ring but we get side tracked by a beautiful Christmas tree inside the Medici Palace.
We go in and look around and we were dazed for a while because they had some of the most well preserved frescos I have seen and a restored painting of Rafael. Then in one of their halls there was a fresco on the ceiling and I was absolutely blown away it was sooo cool because it had mythology and I really enjoyed trying to decipher who was who in the painting. That day there was some sort of government function and we got to see some of the politicians of Firenze. Nothing too exciting but still it was cool I guess.
Then Nick comes and we get ready to go to dinner. Polly had heard of a place over by Sant Ambrogio so we go on a mission to find it. We find it after a little back tracking and eat. I don't have to go into the details of course the food was great no complaints. Then we go home and just chill and go to sleep.

12/12/08
Today I basically had lunch with Omid for the last time this year and then took him out to the airport. It was kind of weird because he was here for so long that it was like he was one of the roommates. He did everything with us.
On the way back from the airport I stopped by a souvenir store and got some really cool stuff to take back home to all of my friends and family.
I got into the cleaning/packing mode and did some cleaning and packing. I realized that I have an entire suitcase of just shoes!! They are so cool though. Granted my suitcase is the size of a peanut but it sounds like it's a lot hahaha. I then played two games of chess with my roommate and I lost both of them. I will get better though.
Then we got together with the girls from Dublin and went for an apperitivo. Our favorite one of all times it's so good! It's called Kirsch Pub
Then we went home and I crashed out.

12/11/08
School kicked my butt today. I had a final and it was hard. Then after school Nick, Omid, and myself all went to eat at this place called Mario's and it was amazing. So there is no menu they only give you a choice of a few things that they are cooking for just that day. The prices were very reasonable and I had an amazing beef stew.
Then on our way back we walked through the market and I bought my Italian soccer jersey and a beanie with the Flower of Florence.
After that we went home and then hung out. We realized at that moment kind of all of us that we were ready to go home. The cool thing is that we knew why. Living here is not as exciting as it was before.
We have done all the things we wanted to do and have gone around the country and Europe. It has become routine and normal. We need a change and that's why we feel like we just got to soak up the sun or should I say the rain and enjoy the rest of my days in good company.

So after that realization we went to Santa Croce Church to a mini festival where you can find a lot of German things and food. It wasn't all that great actually. So we just did a little stroll and then went back home and got ready to go out for Omid's last dinner here, we went to Il Gato e la Volpe (The Cat and the Fox). Then we came back home and had a few drinks and then went to do some Karaoke at the Loin's Fountain. I sung a few songs and had a really great time because we went with two of the girls we had met en route to Dublin. They were there and so were the people from our program so we rolled in deep and it was a whole lot of fun. I always had someone to hang out with and talk/sing.

Then after that we suddenly wanted to dance...what a surprise. So we went to Club 21 and dance till it almost closed. It was really cool because it wasn't that packed so it wasn't that hot and we had room to dance comfortably. After that we went home and just talked for a while and then we went our separate ways.

Living it up for the last couple of days :(

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:59:00 +0000

12/10/08
My last day of International Business!! Yay. It was presentation day and I knew it was going to be boring so I brought my computer and was chatting online with people in my class and around the world...man I love the internet. I then came home got a sandwich at the Oil Shoppe went to school did some research and then came home to work on my project. I was tired so I decided to get some coffee and I went with my roommates and Omid. It was really fun and it was an experience in and of itself. It was really good food and coffee! I had an expresso with carmel and whip cream mmm mmm good. Then some lemon marinated chicken with bell peppers and a bruschetta and then a pear pie dessert. This was my third meal of the day and I was no where near done...I took them to the Uffizi and came home to work on my paper. Then around 6:30pm me and Omid went to pick up our jackets. I was like a kid before Christmas. There was a nervous anticipation and I was really pleased with the results. It came out perfect. It feels ssooo good I love it and it fits perfectly. I am glad I waited 5 years to get my my very own jacket made to fit me in the land of the finest leather of the world. It brings me great joy and it's the best souvenir I could ever bring back.
On our way back Omid was craving spaghetti Bolognese his all time favorite so we stop at the random restaurant to eat. I got spaghetti alla Carbonara my all tim favorite and we had a good time eating. We then went home and about two hours later we had some more pasta bolognese that the girls from upstairs cooked for us in his honor because he leaves on friday. So today I had breakfast, lunch, afternoon lunch, dinner, and post dinner. Five meals and each was very filling. Then after my post dinner which was really cool because I again spent time with good people and just enjoyed the time spent with them shooting the wind.
I went home (downstairs) and continued to work on my paper.

12/09/08
So today I had class and I was so unprepared but everything turned out okay. I didn't have any major things to turn in or do which was really cool. I just lucked out in every sense...hehehe...no stress baby!!
After school I got home and everyone was still passed out cold and it was like 12:30. So we said that we were going to get lunch at two but instead Polly's bright idea was to rent segways instead. So he put on his Santa Claus outfit along with Brian and I put on my Firenze flag as a cape. I had my red sweater and beanie on with my black gloves and shades. We looked hilarious, Omid put on a christmas hat and one of Polly's friends who is also visiting didn't dress up.
We ROCKED Firenze!!!! It was SOO much fun I have never felt more liberated in my life. I looked like a dork but I was having so much fun and I just didn't care I was living life and I loved it!! I was laughing pretty much the whole time because people kept taking pictures of us and we were yelling Merry Christmas and HO HO HO.
We went to all of the major piazza's and just rocked it riding around.

The best was at the Piazza della Signoria because he had an ASIAN INVASION they went nuts!! I literally felt like a celebrity so many of them were taking pictures. I was just waving and smiling it was soo weird but yet cool. They were literally jumping for joy. We then ran into some kids and they were all excited to see us too. It was the coolest thing ever.
Afterwards we turned them in and we went out to our Food and Wine class dinner. Our professor who is a professional chef came to one of the girl's house to cook for us and we had some awesome food. Rissoto, Penne Pasta alla Ragu, and eggplant. We were sipping on wine throughout the whole dinner as well. Oh and I felt weird because I actually got close to some of the people here and I am going to miss these times and its going to be sad to see everyone go their separate ways. We took a picture on the terrace with the Duomo in the background and I really want to appreciate life now more than ever especially with good company.

I am eternally thankful to the celestial alignment that allowed me to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to meet some really amazing people in an even more amazing place called Firenze.

Okay so that was done but I wasn't we get ready to go out again. So we were on our way to the club were there was a Beatles cover band playing when Omid decides he wants Chinese food at 11:50pm. So I join him and I eat some Chinese food with him.
We then go to the B-Bop (the club's name) and right off the back I get into it. I was singing at the top of my lungs! It wasn't crowded and there were a lot of our friends there. They played a lot of good music and I had a really great time in good company again with all of my new friends.

12/08/08
Today we woke up at noon and lounged around we went to an awesome apperitivo...my favorite one so far. Had some good food oh man I am going to miss it. Then I also worked on my essay that I had to turn in the next day. I was so proud of myself for being able to finish it the day before. I just relaxed and let the fingers flow.
We actually went to the apperitivo with the girls that we met on our trip to Dublin. Afterwards we just went to sleep we still needed to recover from an awesome weekend.

12/07/08
We wake up had some breakfast and then head out to a free walking tour of Dublin. We all stick together then half the group goes off to do their own thing and apparently they went to some burger joint that was absolutely the worst food they had all had!! I just had a sandwich because me and Dan stuck together to learn about the city. I learned a lot about the history and sites of Ireland/Dublin.
We then left one stop earlier and went to the Jameson Factory. We got a tour and it was really informative I learned a lot about Irish, Scottish, and American whiskey. I actually preferred the Irish Whiskey. It really was better and more smooth for my liking. We then walked back to the hostel and got a taxi to the airport.
So I am going through security and they check my bag...well it turns out that they won't let me through with some of my toiletries because the containers are over 100ml. I was like oh hell no!! So I went on a mission to look for the empty regulation plastic containers and they were no where to be found on this side of the security so I had to go all the way out of the airport and go through customs to get to the non secure side. So I get into the pharmacy and they were out!!!!! I couldn't believe it!! So I go through security again and I talk to them and then I go to some other travel store and find it! I could have gone there the first time but I didn't think about it. I then switch the container's liquid and went to the terminal to wait for the rest of my group. I ended up waiting for them for a while because I was there super early.
They finally show up and we wait for a bit and then board the plane. The ride back was much smoother and we get into Pisa safely. We get a bus back to Firenze and I get into bed around 3am.

I was so thankful to be back home. Yes I said home I actually now consider Florence my home and when I leave it's going to be my home away from home.

Beginning of December and Ireland

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 08:12:00 +0000

12/06/08
I wake up at like 11:30am and we get ready to go out. We decided to not go to the Cliffs of Moher or the Anis Islands. Two tours that the group went on we were the ones who stayed behind and did the more chill thing which was sit see the city. We did a little bit of that and then had some food. I had a traditional Irish meal that I took to a Chinese restaurant because Omid wanted Chinese food in Ireland! So we ended up getting into some really good conversations and we ended up being there for like two hours. We went to the river and then back to the hostel taking our time.
We met up with our group at around 5:46 at the bus/train station and they decided to take the train back even though we were PLANNING on taking the bus. So we take the train. While on the train we get entertained by some drunk Irish folks who were on their way to celebrate a going away to prison party for one of their friends!! Go figure. Anyways, they played some flute song that was all out of tune but none the less entertaining.
We then get into Dublin and start making our way to the hostel to get ready to go out. The ground was slippery and icy and I had my beanie!!! Because Omid recognized the guy that was sleeping on the bed that I took my nap on and asked him for it and he returned it to me!! I was so so happy to have it back.
Then we make it to our hostel and start to get ready to go out. I meet up with my friend and we go out to the Porterhouse again but first we stop at a Burger King and get some food.
I had made good friends with a Captain by the name of Morgan and we hit it off to a great start. I had a real nice liquid blanket to keep me warm on the way to the pub. By the time I had reached the club I felt like my captain friend had knocked me out cold. I had another beer but I never saw the bottom of it... I ended up going home and just crashing out at my friends place.

Overall I had a blast!! I love Ireland it's so much fun and the people are very warm considering the fact that it's so cold and rainy. I guess all the Guinness helps them cope with reality as I saw on multiple occasions...hahaha

12/05/08
We all wake up around 9:30am have some breakfast and then catch a bus to Galway at around 11am. Learning lesson 1 of this trip. Don't buy round trip tickets when plans can change especially if your traveling with a group of people. I did this twice and plans changed twice on me! So I lost some money that way but it wasn't that big of a deal. It was more annoying than anything else.

So we get into Galway around 3pm and grab a quick bite to eat and then take a nap. Brain and Dan go out with the girls Ice skating but me and Omid decide to stay in and rest. Lame I know but I didn't feel like being more cold and bruising my butt on the ice after every fall. So me and Omid stroll through town and eat at this Fish and Chips place called McDonaugh's it's considered THE best fish and chips of Ireland and boy was it good alright.
We then were walking around and just happened to run into our group. So we went to this pub called the King's Head and hung out there for a while.
It was fun because we walked into a private party and we were hanging out there for a while until we got kicked out. We then had the girls scout out a table for all of us and they did the job. We got a table and then just kicked back and I watched the drunk Irish guys have fun. One guy was celebrating his marriage and the pregnancy of his to be wife but here is the kicker...the father was someone else and he was there to celebrate too!! Go figure!!
Anyways they were really fun to watch but we then left but Omid still wanted to go out. So we went to this club across the river and it was boring and lame I didn't have any fun. The people were weird and the ambiance was disappointing. So we hung out there for a while because Omid apparently had a good time so I just sulked at the bar...then we went home.

12/04/08
After about 4 hours of sleep we wake up had breakfast and meet up with the girls to go to the Guinness Factory. It was my second time there and I got another free pass to the tour. It was fun the second time around as well. I got to see some things that we only skimmed through the last time I was here.
Oh and before I forget today marked the 4 month anniversary of when I arrived into Dublin when I began my trip. It was pretty cool to start and finish in the same place.
I really liked Dublin the people were great and the ambiance was great too.
I met up with a friend that I had made while I was here the last time and we had some drinks later on that night.
But back to my story...after the factory we went to this place called Rick's Real Hamburgers. I had a really good hamburger by the way and after that we went to the hostel to nap it up.
One of the guys we were with by the name of Dan had a single patty burger then another double patty burger and they weren't small. So we were in awe by all of the food he ate.
So we got up from our nap and then headed out to a place called Legends. This place was cool because it had a tap in the middle of the table and we poured our own beer which was pretty cool because I had just learned how to do that a couple of hours ago at the factory. The science behind a perfect pour is amazing! Anyways, I had already met up with my Irish friend and had already had a drink. So we went to Legends and apparently the Irish dancing and music was not too bad from a local's point of view. Obviously it was for show so some things weren't too accurate, but it was none the less entertaining and very fun to watch.

After that we went to a pub called Porterhouse and hung out there for a bit then we called it a night after a few songs. Oh and I left my beanie at the hostel on another bed so I effectively lost it and I was very upset at myself for being so careless considering that I had just bought it that day at the Guinness Factory. :(

12/03/08
Went to my international Business class to do a presentation that I had prepared for just the day before until like 1am. I woke up late got all dressed up really nice with my dress shoes and Pea coat that I had just bought in Rome, and rushed to class. I was about 15 minutes late and I made a grand entrance. I was the best dressed so that made up for it. Even the chronically late guy was there before me!! We did our presentation and I think we did a great job. I was really happy with our performance and I am thankful that we don't have to worry about that class anymore.
Then I went home and packed my stuff to get ready for Ireland. Now it's important to remember this time...2pm is the time we left Firenze to go to Pisa. So we play some games and get all excited in the train ride there and time flies right out the window.
We arrive and notice an ominous cloud cover but not too bad. We check in and then we go to the line to wait to get through security inspection. We then start to notice that all of a sudden all these flights start to get cancelled. We start to think the worst and yes the worst happened our flight got cancelled.
I wasn't worried at all though, actually I was thinking about what I was going to do that weekend. Now here is the cool story. Omid my friend had to check in a bag because he couldn't take it on as a carry on. So after we realized it was cancelled he went in search of his bag. I was playing chess with my roommate Brian while we waited.
While we were waiting we ran into an Irish girl and 5 other American girls studying in Firenze. We all stuck together because we were in the same boat or should I say same plane hahaha.
Anyways we all start to part ways when Omid comes back with a look on his face like he saw a goddess. We're going to Dublin! We're going to Dublin! he cried out. I then call two of the girls who had already left and Omid calls the other group of girls. One of the group was already on the train! So they barely just got off.

What ended up happening was that all flights got cancelled and were now departing from Genoa. So Ryanair arranged for buses to take us to Genoa which is two hours away. That was like at 8pm 3 hours after our plane was suppose to take off. So we get to Genoa and then we run into this guy and a girl that also were going to Dublin. We talk to them and then we do our own thing. We go through another checkpoint and then finally leave around 2am!! 12 hours later from when we left Florence and about 9 or so hours after our plane was suppose to leave.
Anyways, the girl that was with that guy we met in Genoa all of a sudden decides to leave! Crazy! After all this I would imagine that she had passed the point of no return. Then an hour or two later we leave, so the guy joined us and we became a big group of friends on a crazy adventure.

We land after a rocky ride that had my roommate Brian scared shitless and I am being serious he is afraid of flying. We get into Dublin at 4 in the morning Dublin time 5am Florence time. We take a bus get to the spire (which is a landmark) and then walk to our hostel...but wait I totally took them the wrong way. I got them confused with the one I had gone to 4 months ago. So we walked around for about 30 minutes trying to figure things out when this nice Irish lady helps us out at 4am who knows why she was awake but she was the nicest lady she went with us to some hostel and helped us find our place. But we were starving naturally, so we had a Subway sandwich...I know I couldn't believe it was open either but thank goodness it was because we needed some energy. It ended up that we were in a completely absolutely wrong place!! So we get a cab/taxi to the right place and make our way into our correct hostel beds at around 5:13 Dublin time 6:13 Florence time! WOW what an adventure.

12/02/08
I got up nice and early ready for school. I felt like I was back from a long vacation. My Leonardo Da Vinci class took me to the Palazzo Vecchio and it was really cool to be able to see the Grand Hall and actually know about what I am looking at. It was a nice history lesson about the history of Florence.
Then after that I had Food and Wine and we all brought in a paired food with wine. I brought in Clementines with Spumante which is a type of Sparkling white wine. It was really nice and I feel like I have finally learned to really appreciate food to its fullest degree. I am constantly refining my senses and I am loving it.

Me and Omid then went to go and eat and on our way we got some warm cloths that we need for our trip. Then we came home and I did some school work until I finished it all. Oh and I did laundry, hopefully for the last time.

12/01/08
We roll out of bed around 1pm and then lolly gag for an hour until we finally leave Nick's place around 3ish. We get to the station and miss the first train but no worries 10 minutes later we were on another train heading towards Firenze.
We were supposed to go to Naples but neither of us were too excited to go out there. So instead we went back home, I was so ready go back.
We get into Firenze and then we go straight to the Chinese restaurant. That was our original plan for Thanksgiving so we ended up doing it a little bit later.

I then went home and worked on my school work that I have been neglecting for a few days. I managed to crank out a paper for one of my classes. Then I went to sleep.

End of November

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 08:10:00 +0000

11/30/08
Sunday we were suppose to get up at 6:30am to go to the Vatican but it didn't happen since we only had two hours of sleep. So we got up around 12ish and then decided to go to the Vatican on our own. We randomly run into Brian and his mom in the METRO how random is that! So we all go out to eat at some pizzeria that had mediocre service with some decent pizza. I actually I just didn't like the waiter. But besides that it was alright. We then go to the Basilica and look at the outside because the line was ridiculous. We then go to the Vatican Museum and it was closed. So we go back home and we get a personal tour of the closed coliseum and forum. then we go to the Cirrcus Massimo which basically is a track covered in dirt next to the Palantine Hill.
We then go to the Piazza del Popolo and start our shopping experience en route to Nick's house. I got a wool jacket that looks sharp. Everyone got something.
We get to Nick's house and were hungry. Nick only has spaghetti so me and Omid went to some fast food joint and had an awesome meal. I actually really liked the chicken sandwich.
We go home take a nap until midnight get ready and go out. We went to Scholar's again and it was really relaxed there were very few people out and about. We get a table and some peanuts and just hang out watching football until 4am.

11/29/08
So we get out of bed around noonish. We go out to lunch over by the Pantheon and then we split up so that they go out to the catacombs. Omid, Nick, and I end up going to Piazza Navona and then the Julius Caesar museum. It was really cool to be able to see all the artifacts and stuff of Caesar's era. We then went home and napped until like 8pm to then get ready for dinner and some more partying later on. We went to some trattoria that was okay. The food was probably good but I didn't feel all that great. So we go back to Nick's house and played flip cup with wine and then walked over to the Spanish Steps. Omid got some really great videos of us out there. We then walked to Campo di Fiori had a Mojito and then had to leave so we went to Scholar's again and hung out until 4am again.
We met some really cool east coast girls so that made our night better not to mention that I saw some people from my program.

11/28/08
Naturally I woke up a bit late like at 9am and we went with Nick and his CEA group on a tour of the Catacombs of Rome. It was cool but nothing too exciting. We met up with some girls from my program who were coming in that morning. It was pouring rain when we met up at the Trevi Fountain around noonish. We went to eat and had an awesome meal...although I have had better in Florence. After that we went to the Capitolini Museum. It was really cool because they had a lot of ancient Roman statues and artifacts that I really enjoyed seeing. We then split up after the museum because we were all tired.
Then we get food on our own and meet up with the girls around 9pm after we took a nap.
We preparty and then hit up Campo di Fiori. We party hard and I partied especially hard. I had a one mixed drink too many and I was feeling really good needless to say...so I danced, drank, and then went to some clubs. I was feeling so good that I didn't even do anything other than try to not close my eyes or else I felt like I was going to fall. The taxi ride there did a number on me and I spat out the window. I had absolutely no idea where we were. But I was in good company and I knew that my friends were going to be there for me. It was crazy because I never blacked out or lost my senses. I was proud of myself for that. Then when we were wondering were Nick was because we needed to get home bam he walks in the club. The timing could not have been better!! It was perfect. We then all get a ride back to his house. You would think that would be the end of the night...wrong!! Not in Roma. So one of the girls for some odd reason didn't want to sleep away from here passport. Everyone else was going to crash at Nick's house but no her. So Omid and one of her friends stayed with her outside. I was like PEACE and I went straight to bed. I wasn't going to take any of their bull ish. It turns out that they had some crazy ordeal where their taxi stalled in the middle of the road and they got nowhere. So they ended up staying at Nick's place after all. Then we called it a night around 5 or so probably.

11/27/08
Today I had class until 12pm so after that me and Omid took care of business and he did some shopping. We then get home and realize that everyone had plans for thanksgiving and we really didn't. So our initial plan was to have some Chinese food just the two of us. Then last minute we make a few phone calls and were off to Roma. We figured out when the trains were leaving and we got the last train from Firenze to Roma. We had fun talking about stuff on the train and then we get into Roma. We were really hungry and didn't have any other choice but to go to our least favorite American fast food joint of which I can't even mention. :(
It did the job though, but that's not all! We get there and we can't eat in the restaurant because it was closing so we were like ok we'll go to the one downstairs so we go and start eating when we get kicked out by some guard. So we then go towards the Metro only to find out that it was CLOSED at 11:30pm So had no choice but to go outside with our food and it was cold and it was sprinkling and we had nowhere to sit. So we found some construction barracks were we could put our food on and ate there. Omid took some video of our whole ordeal.
We then finished our meal and had no choice but to walk. Last time I was in Rome I remember walking and thinking it wasn't that far. So I had no map but I trusted myself and I remember walking down a few streets trying to recollect. I then picked a road and went with it and what do you know it was the right one! I was so happy no because I was on the right road but because I trusted my instinct and I was right. We keep going and then get to my roommate's house and call him....Well he didn't answer then I called up another friend and I got hung up on..so much for that "friend". We were running out of options and I out of patience. Luckily the rain wasn't too bad but it was lightly sprinkling.
We then start walking towards the hotels and fail at finding something reasonable. So I turn to Omid and ask him "What does your gut instinct tell you?" He said I think that he is still in his house. Then a second later I get the call and it's him. Then I look at my phone and the battery dies!! It couldn't have been better timing!! I was in awe. We get in and settle down and get ready to go out. We got to this place called Scholar's Lounge and I got to see the friends of Nick from Rome. They were playing really good music and I delighted myself in some Guinness. We ended up leaving like at 4am considering it one of the most unique Thanksgiving's I have ever had.

I had to control my emotions a lot. Not to mention that I had someone ditch me and someone else forget that I was coming because they were "napping". It ended up being an okay rest of the night. I have to see everything as a learning experience I did alright.

11/26/08
So we went to class and after that Polly, Omid, and I went to a Trattoria that was awesome. It got full within minutes of our arrival and we had some really great food. Some spaghetti and lasagne, then we had some pork and veal. Wow we had a good lunch. Then we went to get Polly a haircut and Omid did some more shopping. We were pretty exhausted from the lack of proper sleep and from the wine we had at lunch. So we crash out for a while and then get ready to go out. But I didn't go out I was too tired.

11/25/08
So I didn't go to any of my classes today and I worked on a project of mine for one of my classes. Then went around shopping and then went to a soccer game. Funny story is that I bought the tickets and then left them at some store. We then got a bus and went on an adventure and we got some more tickets on our way to the stadium. So we get in and meet up with all of our classmates and we take over a small section of the stadium. Our professor was with us so that was interesting to see him there. He loves soccer like most italians. The Fiorentina lost 2-1 to some French team called Olympae Lyons. They played well and there were a lot of close ones.
Then after the game we went and had Tortellini's at one of the girl's house. We end up staying there because we all have the same class the next day.

11/24/08
So instead of staying in I decided to go out with just my friend. I get anxiety sometimes and I am learning how to cope with it. I figured out that I just have to get out of where I am at and talk to someone that I trust. So that's exactly what I did since I couldn't get a hold of certain people through skype...
We walked around and we ended up going to a bar called J.J. Cathedral. We chat it up I have a Newcastle and then Polly and his friends show up at the same place we were at! We then all get together and start shooting the wind. I had let out my stress so the timing was perfect. Were there for a while and then we leave for home. We get home and it's a raucous we are all singing, yelling, and laughing. I know we woke up our roommates. Then Polly and my friend and of course myself had a heart to heart and then we went to sleep.

That was after midnight so technically it was the 24th today I got out of bed at noon and then went to the market to get the weekly groceries.
We then got some plane tickets to go to Dublin and Galway Ireland. Watched a few shows on my roommates computer. We then went in search of an apperitivo but it was a bit too late so we then ended up at a sushi bar...yes a sushi bar. I could not believe it until I was inside. It wasn't my idea it was my friend who wanted to go and I just went along with it. Once I was inside I was tripping out because it never ever crossed my mind to eat at a sushi bar. I had some 6 pieces of sushi and it was expensive but it made my stress/depression go away, I'm sure the Guinness after the meal helped too. But it's mostly me being sad at the fact that I am going to leave. I have capitalized on as much as I can and I feel fulfilled for the most part. I know that I will return so that makes me feel better, I get the feeling that it will be sooner than later too.
Me and my friend just chilled and hung out for the rest of the night shooting the wind.

Coping with reality

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 13:20:00 +0000

11/24/08
So instead of staying in I decided to go out with just my friend. I get anxiety sometimes and I am learning how to cope with it. I figured out that I just have to get out of where I am at and talk to someone that I trust. So that's exactly what I did since I couldn't get a hold of certain people through skype...
We walked around and we ended up going to a bar called J.J. Cathedral. We chat it up I have a Newcastle and then Polly and his friends show up at the same place we were at! We then all get together and start shooting the wind. I had let out my stress so the timing was perfect. Were there for a while and then we leave for home. We get home and it's a raucous we are all singing, yelling, and laughing. I know we woke up our roommates. Then Polly and my friend and of course myself had a heart to heart and then we went to sleep.

That was after midnight so technically it was the 24th.

Today (day) I got out of bed at noon and then went to the market to get the weekly groceries. Then to school to do some work.

Venice Friends...and feasts

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 20:18:00 +0000

11/23/08
wakeup 12am brunch3pm/girls.shopping w/omid.home. relax
So I role out of bed at 12 and get an invitation to have brunch at one of the girl's house at 1pm. So we all go out there about 9 of us and have this awesome brunch on their terrace which over looks the Duomo!! We made eggs and potatoes and we used 30 eggs!! It was glorious. The best part is that it only cost us 3 euros each!! We had Momusas which is Champagne with orange juice which wasn't too bad actually. Then after that me and my friend walked around looking at shops and it was like 4 by now. We were impressed with the amount of people that were walking around. There were so many people we went to a cafe and I had a cappuccino and some Tiramisu which was really good. We then went walking around he bought a jacket that was really cool at Zara's. Then we came home I decided to stay in and just relax and work on stuff that I need to take care of.

Then I realized that I am going to miss the people more than the place now... I feel like this is too good to be true. I am sad to know that this will all end soon. I have to cherish every moment and make the best of it. I realized that I have to have a lot of love for everything. Everything is so beautiful and it's going to be hard for me to go back now aaaahhh so many emotions so many dilemmas that I don't know what I am going to do. But let's see what happens...

11/22/08
I woke up early and we got going for the train station. We get there and the ticket machine said it was sold out. So we decide to just buy a ticket on train...no big deal right? WRONG. It turns out that there is a 50 Euro convenience fee so we had to pay double for a normal ticket!!
We sucked it up and paid for it but it none the less left a sting. Then we ran into one of our classmates who was also going to Venice alone so she joined us and it was all that much more merrier. The ride up to Venice went by so fast I felt like we were on the train for like 30 minutes. Me and my friend were exhausted from the nights before and thus were running on adrenaline. So we were all giggly and tired so anything made us laugh. I felt like I was high or something. But we weren't.
We had such an awesome time on the train that it was one of our highlights of the trip.
So we get in and I was just awed by the splendor and sheer beauty. I have never seen anything like this and I don't think I can see something like this anywhere else. It was so cool to see these houses in the water. I could not get over it! Boats everywhere!! The houses on the Grand Canal were all so pretty and unique. I felt like I was in Disneyland!! It was so unreal! We take a "boat bus" to San Marco's Plaza which were they have the main Basilica and center of government.
We passed under the Rialto Bridge which is the most famous bridge of Venice and then we get to the plaza which was amazing!! The church was something else all covered in GOLD mosaic. We go and eat because we were starving and had some good food.
We then go to the top of the tower that over looks the whole city. It was cool to see all of Venice from up above. I was in awe and surprised that the city was so small. We then take another boat bus to Murano which is famous for their glass blowing. We get there at 4:30pm and the sun was setting so we took some pictures. But we missed the glass blower people. :( So we had some pastries and went back to the Train station. We did some shopping and I got everyone some presents I had to sell some body parts to afford it all but it was worth it though. We then get back on the train and knockout for a couple of hours. We get off in Bologna to get on another train and eat at an American Restaurant of which I won't name. Then we catch our train and open up a liter of wine to celebrate and play some card games. Time flew so fast that by the time we got into Firenze we were like "Were here?? Wow that was fast" even though it was an hour trip or so. That just goes to show time flies when your in good company and having fun. My friend took some hysterical video clips. We then went home but that was just to get ready to go out... But before I get into that here's some info about Venice.

About Venice: it was FREEZING COLD!! I had a T-shirt and a thin jacket so I was cold pretty much the whole time, everything cost me an arm and a leg, we went around the islands on our way to Murano (glass blowing islands) there are no cars at all (obviously huh), it's super easy to get lost because the "streets" are about two people wide it's so small and they live on top of each other. But since the city is slowly sinking there are only about 50,000 people who live in the city. It's basically a playground for the world or a Disneyland of sort...a fantasy land. It was magical being there, I just wanted to run around all over the place.

So my roommates are going to go out to a club called YAB but I didn't want to go so me and Nick stay behind and chat it up. We were having one of those intellectual conversations that we like to have when we heard my friend and one of my roommates coming up the stairs. It turns out they they didn't get in because they showed up a bit too late. So they said they were going to go to the bar we always go to and this time I did join them.
So I get ready and head out, this was around midnight just so you can get an idea of my day. So on the way to the bar one of my friends calls me up and she invites us to go to the Loin's Den, but instead they come to us and we drink at the bar we like to go to. My friend and I have a rivalry about who has the better drink I like the Caipirinha and he likes the Mojito, so we all agree that they are both good and drunk for different reasons.
From there we we then head out to Club 21 and they were playing techno music which wasn't too bad. I dance it up and had a good ol time but then we decide to leave at around 3:45 we get to my house and I was so tired by now. We watched a few youtube clips and they talked and talked while I was literally falling asleep until I knocked out on the couch at around 5am. My friend brought me a blanket and took my shoes off and I didn't wake up until like 10 am to go right back to sleep. The funny thing is that I had a headache when I didn't even drink.

11/21/08
Well considering the fact that I got out of bed at approximately 1pm I don't think I will have much of a day to talk about. hahaha But last night was awesome though and it was worth it.
It was about 1:30pm when my friend got out of bed and we started to watch a movie called Pineapple Express. We were done with it around 3pm and then we started to cook our first meal of the day!
We had eggs and potatoes with salami. It was really really good. I love these breakfasts' oh wait we had it for dinner so it was.. Breanner hahaha. By the time we were done the sun was setting!! It really didn't matte because it was cloudy so the sun never came out. It would of been sad. I actually think its funny that we did this. We are living so carefree that it's ridiculous. After dinner/breakfast at around 5pm I was done with my blog entries. Meanwhile my roommates and friend were watching a movie!! Tropic Thunder!! It's a funny movie.
We went out to dinner to this place called Il Gato e La Volpe we had a good time except for me because I was in the freakin corner of corners. I had no room to move and my food was literally boiling hot!! It was canneloni and it was good we then shared a pizza afterwards.
After that we went to the same bar from the day before and we hung out and then we went to the Loin's Den to hang out. I placed soccer with a rock with some random Italian girl. It was a very chill night we just hung out with the roommates and then I left to crash out because I didn't want to stay up too late.

11/20/08
Today in my Italian class we learned about prepositions and that was exactly what I wanted to learn about. After that class I was all confident with my Italian. I am so confident that with 3 more months here I'll pick this language up really well.
But anyways we'll see what happens in the future.
After that for my Leonardo Da Vinci class we went to Santa Croce. This is crazy because we were going to go on Tuesday, but decided not to because we had to pay. Now we got free entrance and an expert art teacher to show us around!! I love life for those simple things.
Anyways, we saw the most famous leather school and one of the oldest last suppers and a bunch of other frescos.
Then we went back to school for my last class, food and wine. It was the best one that I have had yet. We learned about food pairing and what wines go with what kinds of food!! I was so excited when I got out of class that we went to eat some pizza and pastries, then went home.
One of my roommates and my friend needed a haircut as did I so we went to some salon place and it was interesting. We didn't know if we could trust this guy. I went first because I really don't care too much and I loved my haircut!! It is very European and I just love it. We had a good time messing around and making fun of each other for a while.
We then walked out feeling like a million dollars all looking so fresh and so clean. We go to the house and met up my other roommate Polly and we go to town to shop. We find this really cool store that reminded me of a Ross because it had a bunch of stuff that was moderately priced and it had a wide selection. My roommates get some pants and shirts. I didn't get anything but I will definitely be paying it a visit before I leave.
We had a home cooked meal that consisted of some home made salsa and penne pasta with some bruschetta. It was so cool to be able to just share a meal and hang out over a meal with some wine. We talked about all kinds of things and just got to know each other even more. My best friend visiting has become one of us and he is like a roommate now.
After that we all took a nap and then woke up to get ready to go out and party like a rockstar. We went in search of this bar were we can get 5 shots for 5 Euros. We make a big circle around the block and then find it. We get a total of 20 shots because there were 4 of us and then we each get a Caipirinha which is pretty much pure alcohol!! I honestly didn't feel anything. I know I am suppose to feel it later but I never really did...I felt a slight buzz by the time we were leaving though. I think it was because I had an awesome dinner.
Anyways, we make way to the club and it turns out that our original destination was a private party so we then went to club 21. There we had a Negroni which is made up of Gin, Vermouth, and Bitter. Boy was it bitter!! It was strong but I felt really good. Honestly, I could not believe how little effect all that alcohol had on me! I wasn't complaining though because I felt just right.
My goal was to have at least one dance so I was on a mission. I talked to a few girls each having their own issues. It was fun though because I talked all kinds of bullshit and had fun with it. This one girl was so ridiculously dancing that I went up to her and asked her why she was alone and then I gave her shit for having shitty friends, then they came when they saw me.
Another girl just wanted to dance alone. But went I went to the dance floor I just got a girl and started to dance with her and we actually kind of clicked except that she was from Spain just visiting here. Then here lame friends kind of C-blocked even though I was trying to get my friends to dance with her friends. All in all I had a lot of fun bullshitting with everyone I talked with. I realized that I can't think because when I think it doesn't work out. I learned to just do what feels right and be me. Then we get bored and leave, we hang outside for a little bit and I bullshit with some more girls and it was funny because I say some crazy stuff. The way I see it is I'm not going to see them again so why not might as well have some fun.
We talk to the security guard man who by the way when I was walking into the club I got profiled. I had to prove that I was a student!! Can you believe that? I was looking fly I must admit ;) I just laughed and gave them some shit but not too much. I showed them my ID and then Polly asked them why they profiled me. They said that it was because they hadn't seen me there before!!! But my friend who NEVER has been here walked right in!! and he's Persian!! We got a good laugh and then at the end of the night we were bullshitting with him.
We leave near 4am and go home. We get home and then cook up a feast! It was quite literally a breakfast. We had pasta and water hahahaha. We then watched a movie for about 20 minutes and then we all went to sleep.

I am thankful that I have good people to hang out with. I feel good about everything around me and I am in absolute peace with myself, the world, and people. I love myself, my friends, life, food :), and family. I think I have found the real purpose to life....

11/19/08
class.uffizi ticket.market.sandwich place/wine.hmework. homecook food.
I went to took a test and did very well on it and I only reviewed for about an hour with out reading a page of the book. I love how this stuff just sticks to my brain cells. I finished my test and I was all excited. I went and got an Uffizi ticket for my friend and then we went to San Lorenzo Market for food. I went to my usual people and practiced my Italian. We then went to Antico Noe's Sandwich place and had an awesome sandwich with a Montalpucino wine. This wine was absolutely rich in flavor and dry. It made the meal so much better!!
We then went home and I did homework until late into the night.

My friend and one of my roommates went to have an aperitivo and I cooked up some pasta and had that for dinner. It was really good because it was fresh and I got the salsa to go with it too.
After dinner I went back to work on my journals for one of my classes and then my best friend took off to an 80's party. I stayed behind because I had class and when I was done I crashed out. My friend came back like at 3 or something but I was knocked out.

11/18/08
I went to class and after class me and one of my friends went walking around and we ran into this leather store. We got some cuffs and then we went to the place where I ordered my leather jacket. My friend was all excited to get one and he did. I got 3 pairs of leather shoes and he got some boots to go with the jacket. Ours were customized so we have to wait for them.
Afterwards we went home and got some more shoes for my friend.
Then we went to a restaurant with the roommates. We didn't know where we were going to go we kind of just went for it. We end up at this restaurant call Casalinga which translates to home cooked. And let me tell you...Why am I not surprised, the food was phenomenal! I had Ribolita to start of my meal and it was really great especially when I added the olive oil that the waiter lady told me to add but with no cheese. I found the wine to be a very nice compliment to the meal. With medium body and a smooth not to dry taste. We all shared our dishes with one another and it was really like a family event. Lately have been feeling really good about everything, it's unreal almost. I really feel at home and being with these people just makes me want to stay here longer. I actually feel like I can stay here I speak the language conversationally and can get by.
Then we came home and went to a Beatles cover band show at a club called B-Bop. It was so cook to be in the company of great people listening to great music that I just sat back sung and cherished the moment. The place was dripping with sweat all over the walls and I met a girl from Mexico who studied in Italy and now is living with an Italian and a German girl. I was tripping out.
I said I was glad to meet her and her friends and I left. It was weird because I will probably never meet these people again. In the past I felt bad because it felt like a loss, but now its like whatever. I want to be around good people and that's good enough for me, I don't need more.
We went home and just crashed.

11/17/08
Today I didn’t do much other than hang out, relax, and do work on the internet at school. I had a piece of pizza at a pizzeria that is near where I live and it was awesome it is so ridiculously good. It is not the “authentic” Italian pizza but it’s still really good and I really liked it. I really like how now I am eating more often and in less portions. I am starting to think that it’s better for me like this.

For lunch me my friend and Brian went to San Ambrogio to eat at Da Rocco's and we had an absolute feast for 10 Euros each. That is a deal considering we had a 1.5 liter of wine and a 2 course meal with 3 baskets of bread. We bonded lunch and had a really good time sharing stories and just shooting the wind.

We watched an episode of Entourage and it was really cool because we all were really into it and knew what was going on. I got into the show and now I am hooked but its for a good reason because we bond when watch the show all together.

After I was done doing all my boring work I went to an aperitivo with the roommates and this place was by far the best place we have gone to. It had everything under the sun. Basically, it was the ultimate aperitivo on steroids because some places only have pasta while others have only cold cuts and cheeses, but this place had it all. Cold cuts, warm pasta, sausage, cooked veggies, and a variety of cheeses. We all had Chianti to accompany our meal and it wasn’t that great actually, but for all the great food we had it was worth it most definitely. We talked about food about half the time and the other half we just talked about other things. We were pretty loud at times but we were at the back of the bar where we were alone and it was a very private reserved ambiance. Definitely a place that I would like to go back to. I had two plates of a wide arrangement of food that consisted of meats, pastas, and veggies. They even had dolci and fruits!! We were so excited to eat there that we didn’t want to leave, but we did.

11/16/08
So we wake up and start our adventure to go to the next towns in Cinque Terre. It was really cool because we walked along the via d'amore and then hiked to the next town. They were all very beautiful and picturesque. The water was absolutely amazing and very cool with some amazing views of the ocean and the cliffs. In one town we went to scale a person's garden on the cliffs. It was really cool to see the vines and gardens up close and personal. We then went back and hiked another trail after that we got a train to the next town. So we go to the farthest town and then decide to eat at the 4th town and the unthinkable happens. We miss the train, but no worries we'll take the next one right. Well that next one took us to the first town and then it would take us while to get back to the fourth one and then back because we had to leave by a certain time. So we ended up just getting our bags and eating some pesto pizza that was BOMB it was so good that I got a second piece. We then realize that we are going to miss the bus to take us to the 4th town and sure enough we miss it. So now tensions are running high and people are getting peeved. I was like whatever I had a good time and am thankful that I got to see half of what I got to see. There is no way I can allow myself to get upset because the mere fact that I am here is a blessing and for me to be upset would be very selfish of me. We get the train to go back home and in it there was this cute little kid that was absolutely adorable. He was flirting with the girls and we were all laughing and enjoying ourselves. My favorite was when he said Ciao Ciao and that brought a lot of joy to all of us in lieu of all our mishaps that had just taken place.
We then get off and wait inside a McDonald's I left on another train by myself to Firenze and had a sad farewell.
The ride back was long and boring. I then got into Firenze and got a Taxi to pick up one of my best friends from home that came to visit me. I felt bad because I arrived so late and he had to wait for me. But I met him and we rejoiced at the sight of each other.
I got him settled in and then we went to Yellow Bar restaurant and we each had a pizza. We talked until the restaurant closed it was awesome to be able to catch up with those you miss from back home. I asked the waiter what her favorite pizza was and I didn’t even look at the menu and told her to bring me that. For wine we had 2 regular nothing-special glasses of red wine. She never told us the name but I think it was some kind of house wine. I thought it was very unique; it had a medium body to it and a very strong pepper aftertaste but I loved it because it was something different that I had never had before. The waiter was very nice and made our meal so much more enjoyable. When we had to leave she gave us a box for our pizza and then After that we went home and then to a bar and had a drink. I felt really adult like and grown up because we just talked about a bunch of stuff from back home and about our past experiences that we have lived.
I was really thankful to be able to hang out with him and to have good people in my life.

11/15/08
We woke up late and the first thing we did was go and get a coffee over by San Lorenzo Market. We then went to the train station to check on the times of departure. We then all met up and went to the Accademia to see David. It was really cool because everyone loved it. Since they were Roman I felt like I had to show them the best of Florence. We don't have any ruins but we have a lot of erected beauties. We then made way towards the Pitti Palace hitting up all the famous spots on our way there. We go to the Bobili Gardens and get some really nice views of the city and then make our way out from the top of the hill.
We were all hungry so we ate at this hole in the wall pizza parlor. It was so good it was super small and there was barely enough space to sit. I got a sausage pizza and the other got some calzones. I was amazed by how large they were and not that expensive. We shared and I think that I was converted to calzone lover. I thought that they were really good. It was very unique and had a very juicy non-dry feel to it.
The waiter brought us chicken nuggets that were amazing! It was kind of spicy but yet juicy and flavorful. We were surrounded by locals and I felt good finding a place that caters to locals.
We then went home and then to the station to leave for cinque terre. We get on our train and play some games that were pretty fun actually to kill some time. We then get to Pisa and then go on one of the craziest missions ever! We decide to go and look at the leaning tower of Pisa...which is literally on the opposite side of the city. We power walk there and then as we get there we realize that we are not going to make it back in time so everyone starts to get nervous and panic. I calm them down and they get a taxi to take the girls to the station. Meanwhile me and Nick literally ran back to the station! We literally ran across town as the saying goes. We were so exhausted but we didn't stop and we missed the train BUT we got the next train to the next town we needed to get to and it was all good. We reminisced on the times when we were traveling through Europe and had to go through similar experiences. It was really fun because it reinforced my belief that if I let life happen and just trust that things will pan out as long as I go with what is in my control, I'll be fine.
It turns out that when we got on the next train in the next city we got on the same exact train that they were on that we had missed earlier!!! We rejoiced as if we hadn't seen each other for a long time. It was the coolest thing ever and again it proved my point that there is no need to get all worked up about things.
We then go to our hostel/apartment which was on the 4th floor and up some really creepy old looking stairs. It was a really horrible entrance but a very nice hostel actually.
We then went down to the beach/rocks after dinner with two bottles of wine. I hung out and stargazed with one of the girls that wasn't drinking wine since I wasn't either we hung out. During this whole time I felt like I was in a movie it was absolutely unreal I tell you unreal!! Everything was so peaceful and friendly. I felt so jubilant. It was like we all knew each other for years and years and I felt so comfortable and right. Living in the moment, during my whole stay I didn't think of anything else other than the moment. We then went home and went to sleep.

11/14/08
I wake up late worried because today we are going to San Gimingiano and we were going to leave soon. But it turns out that my roommate had some stuff to do at school so he wasn't back until like 11:30am. So I took advantage of this time to do my laundry and catch up on some things here i.e. eat/cook. So he gets home and we leave to find the buses that are going to take us to San Gimingiano. We get to the station and we are lost we don't know where to go we just have a vague idea from what our friends had told us earlier.
We see some buses pull up to this building and one of them said San Gimingiano so we followed them and BAM there was the bus depot. So we get on board and start our journey...
We got to see some awesome scenery and got to see a lot of cool characters on our trip there. A bunch of 15 year old high schooler kids got on the bus and I enjoyed watching them interact with each other. I learned some new words and got an idea of how it would be like to go to school in Italy.
The scenery: the scenery was impressive to say the least. It was interesting to see how all the towns were on top of the hills and the farmland was on the side of the hills. The road we were on was going along the top of the mountains and it was bumpy, curvy, and really breathtaking all wrapped up in an old bus. But not just any bus we were riding in style inside a Mercedes-Benz bus.
We then arrive at our destination and we get out and the first thing we do is take some panoramic pictures. We then walked along the city wall and saw some olive pickers. It was funny because it was three men picking the olives off of one tree!! No wonder olive oil is so expensive. It must take forever to make it at the rate that they pick them.
We then went to an old Medieval fountain that stunk like dirty water. We then made our way back into the city and just started to walk around. We then walked by a wine bar that was selling New Olive Oil Bruschetta. So I just walk in and get my fresh olive oil bruschetta. It was really interesting and this is how she made it: Toasted Tuscan bread then she smeared it with garlic poured a bunch of salt on it and then the olive oil sprinkled with black pepper. It was interesting because she said that the real bruschetta did not have tomato or cheese.
I had it with a glass of red wine and I practiced my italian with her for a while.
It was really fun because it was just us and I was casually talking about where I was from and about how life in San Gimingiano/Tuscany was like.
Afterwards, I met up with my roommate at the top of the only tower that we can climb in the city. It had absolutely amazing views that were breath taking and stunning of the entire region because San Gimingiano lies literally on top of one of the most elevated hills in the region.
We then came down and went on a mission to look for the world famous gelato...well it turns out that they were closed until February. We were bummed but it didn't bother me too much I just went to another spot and it was really really good. I liked it a lot. We then went around a little bit more and then left for the bus stop. Before I left the city wall I got some wine.
At the bus stop we ran into some Americans and it was cool because instead of me figuring out where to go and how to do it I just asked her and I didn't have to think about it. For most of the way back I was listening to music trying to rest up. At the end of the ride I had a conversation with some lady from southern Italia, she had bad breath and I learned a few words.
So I get home and settle in. I do some household things and wait for my roommate to come from Rome.
I pick him up and we go out for a walk around town. We ate at this pizza place called Yellow Bar and had some really good food late at night. It was a really cool meal that I enjoyed with all my friends. We talked about a lot of things. I felt like I was with good people, with good positive energy, and sharing a good meal. It was among the most delightful meals that I have had in a while. Afterwards we walked around in search of gelato and then went home and to sleep.

Venice

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 02:56:00 +0000

okay real quick I went to Venice today and it was awesome!! That place is like a whole new world!! I had a lot of fun with my roommates and friends who we went with.
I got a lot of goodies for yall :)

Boring day turned fun

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:42:00 +0000

11/13/08
Today I just had classes all day and then I went back to school after I ate and then came home. I was bored all day. It rained. It gets dark at like 4:30pm. After I came home again I got ready to go out.
Me and my roommate went out with a goal in mind. To eat and that's about it. We didn't know where or when so we just started to walk. We walked to the Porta Romana, outside the city wall into the neighborhoods that I hadn't ever seen, and then we saw this nice moderately priced restaurant. But before that we had checked out restaurant in Santo Spirito plaza.
We ate at this restaurant and I had fettucine pasta with gorgonzola cheese (Italian version of Blue Cheese), and cabbage flowers.
That was our first course. Then we decided that we wanted a second course but not just any kind of course...a special one. So I ate hare also known as jackrabbit or in Italian Lepre. My roommate ate stuffed rabbit. The hare tasted like liver. The meat kind of dissolved in my mouth in a very gritty manner. The hare was cooked in a sauce that was really dark and the meat was soft but very dark. I ate it all but lets just say I will never again eat hare unless there was nothing else to eat.
The rabbit on the other hand was really good. The meat looked like pork and it was sweet. I think it might have to do with the way it was prepared. I liked it more than the hare. We got another side of bread and we each got a "contorni" a side dish. My roommate got potatoes and I got a salad. My salad was really good it tasted really fresh and the potatoes were really greasy with rosemary and I ended up eating half of them because my roommate was full.
The environment of the restaurant was really cool because it filled up with Italians and their families as the night went on. We really felt like we had found a local's restaurant. We had some very interesting conversations worthy to be shared over a meal. I now respect meal time a whole lot more because I realize that these are the times when I can catch up with people.
After we were done we went to a gelateria and ate it on the bridge while we looked at the Ponte Vecchio. I was in the mood for being out of the ordinary so instead of getting a cone or cup of ice cream I got a biscotti or a sandwich. It wasn't as good as the cone because it was not as cold on the edges and then as it got smaller it became harder to eat.
We then walked to our friends house and we just hung out and relaxed enjoying the company of each other. We then decided on watching a movie Madagascar. So we all pile in one room and watch the movie. It was really cool because we all just bonded together and we all felt comfortable around each other. We then went home and went to sleep.

Roommate bonding...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:23:00 +0000

11/12/08
Today we went to class and we went on a field trip. We looked at some stores and I got some good ideas for businesses. After our class me and my roommate went to the market to get some food. We ended up at the Da Rocco place and we sat down. Within a minute we had wine, bread, menus, and cups at our table. Within the next minute they wanted our order and it was hustle hustle hustle. We got an entire 1.5 liter bottle of wine to ourselves that tasted just like grape juice. We literally drank it like water...that had its consequences.
I had a plate of roast beef meat strips and my roommate had a plate of roast beef stew. It had more flavor than mine but whatevers.
SO THE CRAZY PART OF OUR MEAL!! The waiter actually came to us and asked us if everything was okay and if we needed anything. That has NEVER happened here or anywhere else I think. It was so great that we even gave the waiter a tip something we hadn't done either. It was really cool she made our day. So we left and we took a glass of wine for the road and stumbled our way home at around 1pm in the afternoon.
When I got home I went to sleep until around 5pm and started working on my blog. It's dark now so it's kind of sad.

11/11/08
I had an awesome start to my day today. For my Italian class we met up at a locals market called San Ambrogio and we had to go on a scavenger hunt looking for foods and places. It didn't even seem like a class. I got a cappuccino and then I got some of the freshest product of Firenze. For my next class we met up at a piazza and she brought us bread to munch on. We then took a bus to our destination looked at a last supper at some monk's dinner hall. Then we came back and looked at another last supper fresco at a nun's dinner hall. Oh I forgot to mention that in this class last week we made a fresco painting using the exact same technique Leonardo Da Vinci would have used when he painted his frescos. I made a pretty cool portrait of some saint. This class inspired me to want to paint/draw again. When I was a little kid I remember that I used to paint all kinds of pictures from my Loin King book and I remember being good at it. Me and my friend would compete to see whose was better, back in third grade!!
So I enjoyed this class period a lot. Then I went to my food class and talked about how Italian eat and how it contrasts from our eating habits.
So this is what I learned: Italians eat like five or six times a day...hence their physique, and they eat smaller portions that are 10 times more healthier than what we eat.
Breakfasts are composed of a pastry and a coffee around 10 a fruit snack a light lunch at like 1:30 then a tea break between 3 and 5 pm and then the heavy full on on dinner at 8pm. The cuisine depends on what foods are in season. Pasta is eaten pretty much everyday with little meats and a lot of veggies.
So I came home and this is what I ate...a bunch of pickles green olives that were soo good, they have a tang but its so good. Then I had lasagna and a side dish of cooked peas, cooked bell pepper, steamed carrots/broccoli, and grilled cherry tomatoes. Then another entree of egg plant and mozzarella cheese...but I was too full to eat all that because I had been eating bread all morning. My Italian teacher also gave us a small piece of bread too.
After that we went to an aperitivo that was really great. I had pasta and all kinds of cheeses pecorino, parmesan, and all kinds of cold cuts. It was gooood we got an entire bottle which entitled everyone to at least two glasses of wine. So we got our good meal and then we went home. When we were home we watched like three episodes of Entourage. A really cool show that I used to watch when I was a sophomore in college. We had one more glass while watching the show.

The countdown begins...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 14:59:00 +0000

11/10/08
Today my roommate woke me so we could go to the tattoo shop. The shop was in Sesto Fiorentina and we were going to get the train there but the trains were striking. So we ended up getting a train ticket to nowhere. We then looked for a bus but they weren't working. So we ended up taking a taxi there. We were on a mission to get a tattoo. So we get there and the guy gets to work my roommate went first and we then rewarded ourselves with some pizza and pasta that was really delicious. The menu was all in Italian so that means they don't cater to tourist and it was good. We then went back to the train station waited for a train that we thought was going to come, but never did. Then we walked outside the station and ran into a small bus. We asked the guy how to get to Firenze and he started to tell us but then said to just get in and he drove us there to the stop!! It was a personal ride there, it was so cool. I love how people here go out of there way to give you a helping hand. That would never happen back home. He was so cool about it too, he asked us where we were from and then told us good luck and dropped us off.
We get the bus and make way for Firenze. We get home my roommate takes a nap and I go to school to take care of some work.
I then come home, took a shower and went out to have an aperitivo with my three roommates. After the aperitivo we went and got some gelato and ate it as we looked at the Ponte Vecchio from the other bridge. I asked myself how many people will ever say that they ate a gelato while looking at the Ponte Vecchio. That's one of the things I was thankful for today. We then came home watched an episode of Entourage and then I went to sleep after doing some Italian homework.

Today I was thankful for being able to spend time with people you can learn something from. I also am thankful for the peace of mind that I have been able to maintain. I seem to have been able to find a balance in my life that keeps me stable. Not that I am psychotic or anything, but I don't let things bother me as much and I live loving things more...

11/09/08
I woke up at like 10:30 am and had a banana and some more water. I went to the Cathedral to listen to mass and it was pretty cool because I was directly underneath the Cupola/Dome. It was a good way to practice my Italian. But half way through the service my stomach started to growl at me so I went home and cooked 5 eggs, a zucchini with a quarter of a red bell pepper, and some tortellini from the day before.
I was stuffed and so happy to eat!! Then I went to a Fiorentina Futbol game and we took the bus to the stadium full of tourist fans. We got to the stadium with no tickets so we had to buy them at a cafe shop!! Go figure they don't have a ticket booth!! But anyways we wait to get our tickets and then get an expresso. It was just the thing we needed to jump start our day. We run to the right entrance and grab some seats. A little ways into the game bam they score and it was so exciting the crowd went wild. I was all excited to see my first European live soccer goal at a stadium. Then they scored again on a cross kick. Me and my roommate were all excited I don't know how to explain it, now I understand why these people worship futbol. It's exciting suspenseful and your on a constant roller coaster of emotions.
Then the opposing team scores and it was cool to see how the fans react.
We walked home and then relaxed I read a little bit and then we got ready to go to an apperitivo. We went to San Ambrogio cafe and had a 5 dollar (4 Euro) glass of wine and all the grub you could handle.
From there we went to another cafe called Rex and listened to some awesome live guitarist. He was impressive, I really enjoyed listening to him just rock out. After a little bit we went home.

I am thankful for being able to attend events like these with good company. For the past few days I have felt like I am living in the moment and I am trying my hardest to stay in that moment/now. I feel in touch with the creative energy that surrounds me.

Here is a list of good beers in Belguim

West Malle
Orval
Rocfort
west vleteren

trappist beer (from monks)
* Bières de Chimay-
* Brasserie d'Orval
* Brasserie de Rochefort
* Brouwerij Westmalle
* Brouwerij Westvleteren
* Brouwerij de Achelse Kluis
* Brouwerij de Koningshoeven

11/08/08
We all woke up like at 11:30 am and we decided to cook up a storm. Spearheaded by my roommate Polly the main cook of the house. We had eggs up the ying yang, and hash browns. The eggs had spices, bell pepper, ham, and cheese. The potatoes had mozzarella cheese and black pepper. Oh man...I had this with Ketchup and I felt like I was biting heaven it was sooooooo good. I haven't had a breakfast like this in sooo long that this tasted awesome!! We all ate together and then some went to take a nap others to watch a TV show and I came to write in my blog for a little while.
After that I went for a walk I decided to start behind the Duomo but I couldn't get into it with my student card. So the kind man told me where to go and he even gave me a map. So I went along my way and I made it to a museum called "Firenze Accademia di belle arti e Accademia delle arti Delle Arti Del Disegno" a mouth full huh. There was only one thing that really impressed me and that was Gibertti's door that is found on the Baptistry. It was the original plaster model before he made the real one!! At that little exhibit I spoke to the guard lady and we had a nice conversation in all Italian and I was very proud of myself. I got some good information about the area namely that I should go to a town called piensa because they have really great wines and cheeses. I then went on along my way and came into a sunglass store and had another conversation about sunglasses with the vendor man. He was cool and I didn't get any but I felt comfortable and not pushed to buy them. His name was Claudio and when I told him I was living here he was even more friendlier. I told him I would come back and I probably will because they were a great deal. They were so discounted that I could literally get two nice glasses for the price of one.
After that I went to the tourist information office and I caved in and spoke English because what I was trying to explain was too complicated. But I got some great info and tomorrow I think I want to got to the Medici Villas just outside of Florence.
After this I came home. I tried to register for my classes but couldn't so then I cooked up some chicken with tortellini. It was really good overall, I love the chicken here it's soo tender and juicey.
After we ate we went to a pub crawl with Nick's friends. We had a good time I met some people from Stanford, The Army, and Florida. A funny story: in the third pub I took a bunch of pictures for this group. So I made the comment "wow, I feel like a photographer...I should start charging" and I got an American dollar. Later I was talking to some guy and he game me 10 Euros and said get a drink. I was like let's go and get one but he just wanted me to show him where the bathrooms were. I was cool with that. Then we went to the club and it was called Space Electronic. It was cool club that I had never been to. It had a weird vibe to it, maybe because there were like 5 guys to every girl. I remember fixing one of my roommate's friends camera and she was crying because it was going to be the 4th one she breaks.
I fixed it for her and then she was all happy and we just sat down. Then they lost their drink card and spent about an hour looking for it. I waited until I couldn't take it anymore and I left with two army guys. One was from Dallas, Texas and he was the stereotypical Texas country boy. It was funny because his team leader was a guy from Los Angeles and if it weren't for the army they would never be friends. That's what's cool about being in a place where your obligated to get to know someone that you wouldn't normally hang out with.
I then drank some water and then went to sleep.

11/07/08
I woke up late because I could and it felt good!! Then I went to school to do some administrative work. I didn't know what I was going to do or where I was going to go, but my goal was to leave with a destination.
I partially succeeded. I decided that I wanted to go to the Island of Elba, but then I found out that there was going to be a National Train Strike on Sunday, and the weather wasn't going to be all that great. So I stalled and then went home. I dropped off my computer and went to the paper marbling shop to get my masterpiece and talked business with the owner lady about maybe getting a senior project going with them.
I then returned home with all these ideas in my head and sat down to brain storm everything.
I then cooked and ate some pasta from the day before. I went out for a walk picked up some wine and then on my way back just kind of wandered. I ended up at this Mexican restaurant called Tijuana's and had a Pacifico with some Nachos. They were alright.
So I was curious as to who had made the food and I asked one of the waiter ladies. She said that there were 3 Mexicans and 2 Egyptians. I was actually surprised. Then my roommates came there to have dinner and I joined them for their meal and we all just hung out.
We went home and the plan was to go out to a club or pub. Everyone started to pre party and take shots and then the unthinkable happened. One of the girls talked about some State Proposition that I didn't know about and I asked for clarification and that opened up a can of worms for the whole night. We talked about: abortion, racial profiling, sex, marriage, healthcare system, meaning of living, and other hot topics. It was really interesting to learn about others in such a way.
Some got heated and other's just listened but overall we all enjoyed talking and learning about what everyone had to say.
The girls literally one by one went upstairs to sleep and then it was just me and my roommates bullshitting about all sorts of things. We talked about stealing, working, sex, California vs. East Coast, and other stuff I can't remember. But I do remember it was among the most enjoyable relaxing chill times I have had here so far. I really felt like I bonded with my roommates and peers. I remember at one point we noted that when will be with such a diverse group again. It was beautiful to share these moments. We then all went to sleep like at 3 in the morning...

11/06/08
One of my classes got canceled and I went to the market to get some fresh pasta for cheap. I then went home made myself a proscuitto sandwich and then headed back to my other class. After class I worked on my reflection went to the post office and then home. Oh I also went to the supermarket to get milk and yogurt. Stuff they don't sell at the market.
I had bread and grapes for a snack. Sounds plain but oh man its sooo good. Any sweet grape with unsweetened bread is yummy for my tummy!
After my snack I went to the Paper Marbling demonstration. I volunteered to make a sheet and it came out pretty cool. I am going to pick it up tomorrow. It was interesting overall because we got to see old machines that predated the industrial revolution. I then came home and made my fresh pasta with zucchini and some ragu sauce. I called it a night after that.

a reflection

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:30:00 +0000

Today I woke and realized that I have conquered a hill in my life and I can see the valley ahead. There was a point during my stay where I no longer felt like being here. A phase that I don't remember what it is called but I do know that there is a name for it. So anyways, I didn't really feel motivated to stay anymore. But obviously I am kind of stuck here and seeing my mom leave was kind of a reminder of that. I was metaphorically saying good by to my childhood and leaving to become an individual...a man.
I now feel detached from that which I felt held me back, I feel free to roam the world. Seeing my mom and knowing that she was okay with my travels gave me the serenity and peace that I needed in my life to do as I dream. Now I walk with a different attitude and am enjoying my stay even more. I however have to remind myself that this is temporary and that I will return. There is no doubt in me that I shall. I am certain of few things in this world among them my mortality, but as long as it doesn't take me away I know that I will return to the old world and the new world. I believe that I have set myself on the right path and now its a matter of time.
Where I will go I don't know but I am excited now more than ever to see what lies ahead. It's funny sometimes when I see people wake up and dread the days of their lives. I look forward to the future, yes it makes me nervous and I get anxiety at times, but I surround myself around good people that help me through those tough times.
I know that if I seek truth and do the things that make me happy I will find fulfillment in my life, even if they are not the most glamourous things society says one must do.
Being here has taught me to live. I value things differently and I have learned to appreciate that which surrounds me more. Namely people and life. It's been a bumpy road and I have had to fight some demons along that way that have been imbedded in me, but I feel that I have come a long way and that I am doing quite well actually.
It's funny because I no longer know who reads this blog anymore. Sometimes I feel that I am talking to myself and to an imaginary friend.
But anyways, I am happy and like a special person in my life told me, "Find out what you love to do and figure out how you can get paid doing that."
I am going to write a book about my coming of age. I know that it can't be hard and I think if anyone reads this blog there has to be someone who reads a book format of it.
Basically, its going to be about learning to appreciate and respect life, and incorporate that into your daily lives regardless of what you do for a living. I don't want to be a famous author I just want to make a difference on a greater scale. Kind of like the book. "Tuesdays with Morrie" a simple story with a deeper message, that's all. Matter of fact that wouldn't be a bad title: simple stories of life with a deeper meaning.
I believe that we all have the same struggle in life: survival. To survive we need to learn to live and be accepted in a society and have a degree of understanding and tolerance for everything around us. I think that just because we can't see the people on the other side of the river we tend to speculate things and thus create a lack of understanding. I especially see that when it comes to me as an American. I never realize how isolated we were from the rest of the world. I would like to reduce that barrier that isolates us. I know that we are moving towards a more global world and it wouldn't be too difficult to spread a message now days.
In retrospect, the constant learning and sharing of knowledge and views brings me joy...

Tango in Italy??

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:08:00 +0000

11/05/08
International business class: I didn't pay attention too much and I was on the computer for most of the time. I then went home cooked a meal in thirty minutes ate then came back to school and continued to be on the computer. I did a lot of administrative work and let out some stress.
I then went home ironed my shirts, which was very relaxing and my roommate Polly cooked some pasta that was really tasty.
Afterwards, I went to dance Tango with a friend I met on one of my trips. She is from Indiana and her friend he was from Minnesota. I really enjoyed hanging out with them and learning about their states which was really cool. I then came back and did some reading and went to sleep.

Back to school...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:15:00 +0000

11/02/08
I got up and took them all the way to the airport. I delivered them and made sure that they were where they belonged. I felt good to have been able to show them a piece of my world and of the Old World. I wasn't sad or anything it was weird almost. I guess it's because I know that I'll see them again. I got back to Roma and just wandered around the city to my roommates house exploring the city as I went and it was very cool to just be on my own again like when I was in Paris or some other city. It's a different feel for sure.
When I got Nick's I slept for a few hours until lunch which was like at 2pm :)
We had some pizza and I had a nice conversation with him about how we have changed and we shared some of our experiences.
We then went on a stroll through Roma reliving our eurotrip experience days. I got to see some new sights and learn about some new things. We went to the Basilica of Saint Peter and passed by Sant Angelo Castle. That was cool because I had read about it a lot when I read the book Agony and Ecstasy. It was Hadrian's Mausoleum turned into a castle and it was designed in a style reminiscent of the Etruscans.
We then went to the Trasvestre area of Roma where there was a large locals presence. It was fun because we started talking to one of the vendors. She was an Italian student going to college in Roma but was originally from the Naples area. She spoke about the poor economic situation that has forced here to find innovative was to pay for school. I greatly admired her ambition and drive. I realized that by being in America we have so much more opportunities. That is what I was thankful for the most that day. She sold things made in Nepal and cigarette holders. They were really cool actually, but we just talked to her about other things. Since she was from the Naples area she obviously knew about good pizza and she told us where to go...and boy was she right. It was genuinely different and better. The roman pizza is super thin and soggy but this one was thin but not soggy and with more firmness. We got a special pizza with an ingredient that is only from the southern part of Italy. It was spicy sausage...but it was in a paste form. I was expecting some sort of rings but instead it was in a paste and it was spicy but not THAT spicy. Nick didn't agree with me and he was literally sniffling. It was small little shop and the set up was really great, kind of like Subway. The pizza was made in front of you and then the oven was right behind the cook and we could see the pizza cook. Then in 3 minutes it was done!! I loved it. It was the best one so far that I have had. The other ingredients were tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella and a few leaves of basil and olive oil sprinkled over it all. The place was called Nerone Pizza.
Then we went off to walk some more. We walked through some neighborhood and I can honestly say that I never felt unsafe or concerned about being in harm's way. It was weird because I remember when I first got to Europe I was all paranoid and on the lookout. Now, I felt peace of mind and ultimate relaxation as we walked through non-tourist districts. We then walked along the river and that was very peaceful and relaxing, time just went by without a worry in the world.

On our way back we met some italians near campo de Fiori who where going home like us. We talked to them between their broken English and our Broken Italian we were able to effectively communicate. The funny things is that they were all excited because we were from California. I feel like a celebrity when I tell someone that I am from California, especially Italians. We exchange words and emails. Then we continued on our way. We went to sleep thinking about how great our experience has been and how much we are learning and growing up as human beings. With every new immersion we learn more about ourselves and the world we live in.
That is what I am thankful for.
Quote for the Day: "Live in the moment and live every moment"

11/03/08
So I got up took a shower took my time getting ready and then left for Firenze. I decided to walk back so that I could explore and see more of the city and I ended up running into some cool clothing shops. I picked up some really cool italian shirts and jeans that are in style right now. I like the new style that I am embracing. I then got on the train that takes 3 hours to get to Firenze and began reading another book. It is about the Renaissance and Machiavelli. I got half way through it and I am fascinated by all the history that I am learning. It's crazy how similar our lives were to the people of the past. Machiavelli said, "That human nature is the same no matter who or where you are".
I then got home and organized my life and worked on my blog. I then talked with my roommate and played a card game called stutter where you have to say a word that starts with the same letter as is on the card. Example if you flip a seven you have to say a word that starts with an S it can't be a proper noun, a number, or a word that was already said. We had fun and then I went to sleep.

I am thankful for being able to spend time with my mom and to be back home here in Firenze.

11/04/08
When to school went to the market ate hung out and caught up with the neighbors. I watched a movie: Lucky Luciano. It was about how he became the boss of bosses in the mafia. Here is a crazy fact I found out. On September 11th 1930 something he took out all of the Old Guard mafia bosses in the US. What's up with picking September 11th to do bad things???? Anyways it was really eye opening in understanding why Italy struggles with the mafia and why Italy is the way it is and how the United States Army played a role in promoting and strengthening the mafia.
After the movie me and my neighbors went to an election night event. It was sponsored by the Americans in Toscany Association. It was really cool to be able to see this in a foreign country, I just can't believe how much of an impact we have on world affairs. People are so informed about what is going on here.

The start of yet another month

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 09:56:00 +0000

11/01/08
So we woke up and made our way to the Basilica for our tour. We got a sandwich on the way so that helped us make it through the next couple of hours. We get to the tour meeting spot early so we walked around a little bit. We people watched for a bit and made a few observations.
We then go to the Basilica and it was impressive. A fun fact is that the WHOLE place is covered in stone. Literally, the painting that look like paint are actually mosaics. The floor, the walls, and the ceiling is covered in some form of rock or precious metal. I admit its big but its not that big in my opinion. But I don't know, the statue of liberty fits inside the dome. It's the biggest church in the world. I just thought to myself, "To see this you have to thoughts: disgust or devotion" disgust because of so much vanity and gaudy excess of wealth. Especially when the church preaches modesty and humility in its sermons. Or devotion because this is THE house of god and he deserves to have the biggest and best.
Oh and what I really got a kick out of was to see the "dead popes" who didn't rot because they were so "saintly" also the museum had pieces of Jesus' cross and his face on some cloth. I didn't believe a single thing, because thepopes look like a doll and when I read about about the popes of the past and realized that they were political figures who were corrupt and cruel like any other kind of king of the time. I realized that I could not place my faith in another human being that can't be trusted.
But hey the building was cool, because the popes stole all the marble from the palaces of the Roman Empire. So I got to see some two thousand year old floors at least.
We then went home exhausted and with stiff necks from all the looking up we were doing. We had dinner at a small family restaurant that served us some awesome home cooked Italian food. Funny story time: so at the end of our meal we always get a tiramisu for my mom...and this one was gggoooood. I didn't want any desert but we devoured it in seconds so we got another one and we considered a third one. I don't know if we got a third one but we were soooo enjoying the tiramisu. It was the best we have had by far. The lasagna and other food we had was also really really good. We then went home and Nick had invited his friends from the night before and my mom cooked a meal for all of us. They were all thankful and we all enjoyed a meal with some wine. It was really cool just chilling and hanging out with them. They went out to some club, but I had to stay behind because I had to get my mom and brother to the airport.

Last of October

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 09:51:00 +0000

10/31/08
Today I woke up like a champ at 7am and got ready to go to Roma. We had a sandwich for breakfast and slept on the train to Roma. When in Roma we went to my roommates place and then straight to the forum and coliseum. I loved the look on my mom's face when she first saw the coliseum when she first saw it. We got a tour of the Coliseum, the Palantine hill, and the Forum. I learned a lot more since the first tour I took. It was really cool to see my mom especially when she was experiencing something new like the subway or a train here. I think that she felt like a little kid.
We ate at a really cool little restaurant near the Coliseum. I had some awesome cannolini, my brother got some lasagna and my mom something I can't remember. But the point is we all liked what we got. The setting was awesome too. It was outside under a canopy and it was raining so there was a nice buzz in the air which was really nice. When we were done there was no rain so we went to see Trajan's Forum the Vittorio Emanuelle Monument and the Capitoline hill. We then called it a night after that.
But not for me!! It was Halloween so my roommate and his friends were going out and I wasn't about to stay in so there I go. It was raining so I was all wet but it was worth it because I honestly had one of the best nights out. Nick and his friends were so much fun, they were dancing drinking, and singing. Then we went to Campo di Fiori and that place was crazy cool. Basically, it was a plaza with a bunch of bars/cafes ALL around it. It was a lot of fun, and then it started to pour cats and dogs!! We were under a canopy, but that was slowly leaking so I moved around a bit. I talked to a couple from Sardinia and that was cool because I have developed the sufficient confidence in myself to communicate in Italian all the way. Matter of fact they said my Italian was good so I was all happy to hear that!! I met someone from my school that was cool. We then all went home after a while. But bar none that night was the best social night out that I have had in Italy.

10/30/08
So today we went to the Pitti Palace and it is officially my favorite museum!! I loved seeing all this non religious art!! It was only about 300 years old but still amazing and fun to decipher. A funny thing that happened was that on our way to the palace my brother wanted some gelato and he goes to the first stand he sees. Well it turns out that we were about 3 shops down from one of the most famous bridges in the world...so needless to say it was a tourist trap. The server lady was so eager to serve us and insisted that I get something when I didn't want one. They offered us waffles and the works. When it came to pay it turned out to be 14 Euros when I was expecting it to be like 7 or something like that. I was taken aback but we already got the "gelato". We figured out what real gelato was like though and we got a good laugh from it.
We spent a large part of our day at the palace then we went to a restaurant and had some pizza. Another funny story is that when we were ordering we wanted a pizza with pepperoni...well pepperoni is bell pepper in Italian. So my mom got a bell pepper pizza and I was fooled too. It was alright though. We got a good laugh about that too.
Afterwards we went for a walk and went to a 500 year old or so farmacia/pharmacy that was founded by some monks back in the day. It was really cool and interesting to see all the stuff that they had in there. We got our tickets at the train station and then went home.
We had a reservation at the YAB club and we skipped the line and just walked right in. It was really cool. Once we were inside we realized that there was not a single tourist in the place besides us AND we had colored clothing. No joke everyone okay okay if you count gray as a color, but about 95% of the people in this joint had black or white combined somehow. It was nuts to see this, and my brother comes in with a light orange shirt and I had an unfashionable white patterned collared shirt. We were obviously the odd balls of the place, but that didn't stop us from enjoying ourselves. After the second drink we were feeling good and comfortable among all these colorless locals that had the latest in fashion. We had a Becks beer before we got in the club and then had a coke and rum I think. Then we finished it and he ordered a Caipirinha which was really good but really strong. I was done for the night. We got to see a lot of good looking girls all of which spoke no english and that didn't want to dance. But whatever I had fun because it was the first time that I could drink at a club with my brother. It's funny that he had to come all the way over here. Anyways we left and come home starving so we ate some leftover pasta.

10/29/08
My school, the academia, and the game
Today we went to my school and I got to show them around where I have my classes and everything like that. We called home to check in as well. After that we went to the Academia museum to see the David by Michaelangelo. All the hype it gets is truly well deserved because it is a an amazing piece of work. It embodied humanity with such a realism that it makes you feel like your in the moment that he is in. You feel what he is feeling. Physically he looks like a real person not too big not too small with the perfect muscle tone and dimensions. We were all amazed by this work of art.
Afterwards we went home cooked cooked up a storm one of my brother's recipes from some food that we picked up at the market.
Then we went to the soccer game!! It was so cool to be able to see and feel a game in person. I used to always say that I love to play soccer but never really watch it, but this is a completely different feel. I was so into it and it was so cool to be able to see the crowd and its actions/reactions. My mom had a blast and I was really happy to have been able to show her all this. The game was 0 to 0 but there were a lot of close ones that made the game exciting.

10/28/08
This morning we went to the casine market to stroll around. I was amazed at how economical everything was. Then thankfully at the end of our stroll we were caught under the rain. It started to pour and I was sent to get an umbrella while they waited under the shelter of some little cafe. By the time I got back the rain had stopped. But we were going to use it again and I needed one so it was worth it. I was really wet though. We then came home and cooked up another meal and then went to the Bargello Museum and it was really cool to be able to teach them about what I have learned. That evening we ate at queen victoria which was the place where I had my first Italian meal. Matter fact we ate at the same table so that was pretty cool.

10/27/08
So we woke up late ate breakfast and then scaled the famous Duomo. We got to see some amazing views of the city and my mom was a trooper climbing all those stairs. The views were spectacular. The dome from inside was something special because we could see the paintings up close and it was absolutely impressive. I was fascinated by how all of this was created...the paintings and the dome itself.
We then got on the second bus tour which took us out to the outskirts of Firenze and Fiesole.
That evening we cooked up a meal at my house and then called it a night.

10/26/08
Today we went on a city bus tour throughout the city center. We got to see the major sights and we went to the San Lorenzo market. I wanted to immerse them into what it feels like to be in my shoes. My brother did a great job of filming the San Lorenzo market's peculiarities. I think it was today that we got some coffee too...we got an expresso, a cappuccino, and a cafe latte. I had the expresso my mom the cappuccino, and my brother the cafe latte. That night we were wide awake like owls! It made for nice conversation time with my brother and my poor mom tossed and turned until late hours of the night. Needless to say we woke up late the next day.
We then tried to get on the second bus tour but failed miserably because there was a religious convention/holiday of some sort and the bus route was altered. So we went to an internet point to call home. Then went around to check out what was going on.
This evening we went to a famous pizza place that has the "Best Pizza" of Florence. Well I was trying to take them to the best places but they didn't really find the best pizza all that great. It was too burnt, too thin, but the beer was good. We talked a lot and still ate it though. We then got another gelato from the same place

10/25/08
We walked around Florence and we got to see many of the major sights from outside like the Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, and Il Duomo. In the evening we went to a very nice restaurant that served us some very fine Italian food. The best I could afford to take them out. The service was great we had some mozzarella bruchettes, ravioli, and something else. The wine was very good and then for desert my mom had a Tiramisu and we ended with some limoncello (of which I had not had any yet). We then walked back home in the evening and as usual that's when everything is hustling and bustling. We went to my favorite Gelateria called Vivoli and walked around Santa Croce eating some amazing gelato.

10/24/08
I woke up and decided to leave on the train that would give me one hour to get to the airport. I didn't know where or how far the airport bus, but like my project a few days earlier I knew I would find my way.
So I get on the train and go. I arrive in Rome (by the way I returned to Rome without throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, which they say you'll come back if you throw a coin into the fountain so HA Trevi take that). Anyways, I get off and I am like "Ok where do I go now" I was momentarily lost and then saw a sign with a plane so I followed it. I cross the whole station and at the end I saw this girl ask the same question I was going to ask so I talk to her and we both figure out how to get our tickets and get on the right train to the airport.
She was from Texas studying in Mississippi and studying for one semester in Florence. We talked about our experiences in Florence and about where we were from, it was a really pleasant ride and I learned a lot. When we reached the fork in the road we went our separate ways and that was that. I let her know that she made my ride more enjoyable and that I left meeting her with a whole new perspective on things and for sharing her world with me.
I then had to figure out where my mom and brother were going to be and I kind of wandered listening to that little voice inside guiding me. I eventually found the place and I double checked with someone. I then calculated the expected time of their probable arrival. I would close my eyes and think okay they are probably doing this and should get here at so and so time. Sure enough at the time I expected them to arrive they were there it was weird too because I nailed it.

So I saw them first and I wanted to surprise them of course. So I literally brushed my brothers shoulder and I walk right in front of my mom who was all excited to see me. Their glance was so far ahead that they didn't see what was in front of their eyes. We embraced and rejoiced the moment and it was very special.
We then walked back to the train station and it took me about 4 different places to try to get a ticket back to the main station (that they weren't even going to check). So I finally get one and hop on the last direct trip to the main terminal. We had to run because I thought it was going to leave any minute we end up at the caboose and standing. It was really neat to see my mom in such a different environment from what I am used to.
We got the train to Florence and it was cool to be able to walk with my mom and brother along the same roads that I have walked on so many times. We came home and ate something light and went on quick mini tour of the city and then went home to sleep because they were tired.

About my Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:53:00 +0000

So I am writing in my blog as if it is a journal. It contains my thoughts and emotions. I write in it for my memory. So don't take anything I say out of context. I mean for it to serve as a documentary. Thus, it might be a little boring but I don't really care :)

I don't know but I just felt like I had to say this. ok ciao ciao bacci a tutti!!

Oh and I posted 4 new meals in my food blog...

The End of October

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:46:00 +0000

10/23/08
I took three tests today and they were all very simple and straight forward I was not stressed about any one of them. I studied and hour before the test and that was enough for me. I felt really good because I made it a focus to really pay attention to what is going on in class and remembering that. For my international Business class I got an A without reading a single page in the book. My logic is: if its important it will be mentioned in class and I only take bullet point notes because I want to trust my brain in remembering what was talked about. If I write too much down in my mind I am basically saying "I don't trust my brain to recall this so I'll write it down". So far it's worked and we'll see how I do.
Afterwards I went to visit a friend and just hung out with her. It was the day before I went to pick up my mom and brother and I was sad for some reason. I don't know why. So much was going on in my head and I needed to sort it out. I don't know what is in the future and sometimes that frustrates me but I need to remind myself about my own philosophy and just go with what comes my way and trust that things will unfold the way they are suppose to.
I came home and as soon as I got home I was getting ready to go out again because my neighbors were meeting up with some travelers that they had met when they were in France. So we meet up with them and went to an aperitivo and had some awesome wine...but the secret was that it was a Syrah from Argentina. We thought it was a Chianti. We then walked around to the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. I connected with their friend on an intellectual level and it was interesting to hear his stories about his travels and I shared mind. He told me that he was going through Europe visiting his friends that he had made when he was studying abroad. He was working for one year after college and decided he was tired of that so he came to Europe. He said that his passion was in traveling and meeting new people. I agreed with him and I feel like mine is a little bit different but along the same lines. Their friends were from Minnesota and it was really cool to hear their accent that I had only heard in movies before. They were the nicest gals and they too were working when the decided to leave and come to Europe for a month. It was so cool to hear their story. We then called it a night and I went home and I got ready for Rome the next day.

10/22/08
I went to La Cite and took a tango class I had a blast!! It was so much fun, thank goodness...something different for a change. I met an Iranian professor lady and a really cool swedish girl who where working here in Florence. The Professor was
special, my past self would have not liked her but now I wanted to see past the exterior and dig a deeper into her personality. At first glance her attitude was very unpleasing she had a negative aurora, but as we talked a bit more with her cool swedish friend she said she was very tired. So I figured that's why she had such a negative energy.
Then I danced some salsa with some random girl that I was introduced to and I was reinvigorated!! I love salsa, it just makes me want to dance. I then left and got a gelato on my way home and enjoyed it by my self on the bridge as I looked towards the Ponte Vecchio. Then I just went home.

10/19/08 through 10/21/08 Sunday through Tuesday
I didn't do much other than go to school, go out here and there, and cook some really good meals. It was actually quite uneventful. I went to the market didn't study or read for my midterms, so I had a lot of free time. So on Monday I had a presentation and I didn't know what I was going to do until the night before! I decided on something and then I went home. I was invited to have dinner upstairs so I went and put off my project. We talked and just hung out. I then went home typed up some slides and then went to sleep. I was going to give a presentation on an Italian poet. It turns out that I chose the most famous poet and recited his two most famous poems!! All by chance really. The funny thing was that my professor was so impressed and happy that I chose that because it was different and unique. I remember telling one of my classmates that asked me what I was going to do and I said that I didn't know what I was going to do but it was going to be great. The next day I gave a great presentation and I was very proud of myself for being able to do all this and not feeling an ounce of stress!! I just knew that it was going to come to me and it did.
On Tuesday my neighbors from upstairs came down and we had some dinner and then sipped on some wine playing card games we had a lot of fun. Some random people came in the house saying that they were following some Americans and they had heard us so they came up. We were friendly and all drank and learned to play some games. We discovered that some people from different parts of the country play the same game but with slightly different rules which was really cool to learn and it made it much more fun. The random girls were from london and we then went to a club where there was a Beatles cover band and it was sooo much fun. I understood at that little concert why they were loved so much...their music was so catchy and fun to listen to. We sung and danced and had a jolly ol time. It was my roommates birthday so there were a lot of the people from our house at the club. I remember being one of the few who were dancing and having fun with my neighbors. On our way home we played with someone's dog that was so cute and then we went home.

I did a lot of self reflection throughout these days aswell.

Photo bucket

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:33:00 +0000

Yesterday and today I have done nothing really exciting other than go to the market and get food, cook, read, walk around, and sleep. Relax and soak up the lifestyle I have to constantly remind myself that this is temporary and that I have to always cherish the moment and put things into perspective so that when I return to California it won't be so hard to adapt.

Below are pictures of things I saw in Bologna that I was suppose to put in the previous post.

Finally up to date...and aperitivos.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 15:02:00 +0000

10/18/08
Oh wow, I'm up to date with my blog how cool. Today I went to the Sant Ambrogio market and got all the groceries that I needed. I got a lot of fresh veggies and fruits. I was a little intimidated because there were so many people and I didn't know how to really get my stuff. I had to feel it out. I am sure that next time I go I will be an expert market shopper. I am going to go out for an aperitivo probably later on...

10/17/08
Today was a very relaxed and lazy day. I woke up late and ate with my roommate watched a movie then I did some computer work and then we went to our friends house got another movie and hung out for a little bit. We then came back I got ready to go out to an aperitivo and had some awesome seafood. I then came back and went to La Cite and read two Italian children's book for practice.
It was so weird to see a little kid at a cafe where they sell liquor but the views towards alcohol over here are very different. They had live jazz playing but I was too tired so I came home. We then watched another movie and it was really good.

10/16/08
Today it was gloomy and cloudy and I allowed myself to get a little down. I went to school but I didn't have my usual spark. I felt blue, then I went home after class and went on a walk to remember. I went to Piazza di Michelangelo and then to some park next to the Belvedere Fortress and heard some Italian kids play some music that was typical Italian music.
I then made my way back home and felt better. I stopped by some friends house before I went home and I ended up going out with them to an aperitivo. I had a lot of fun playing a game called the Key game and the food was actually really good at this place. Worthy of going if you like meats and want to get a good full meal. I had a feast. Me and my roommate Nick had to wait for the girls because they were getting like 5 shots EACH the bar tender was reeling them in with his Italian charm and drinks. Me and Nick were just spectators because we weren't going to pay for a shot nor get one for free so we just chilled and watched.
We then went home and me and Nick talked about life and metaphysical stuff like that, it was interesting and he then told me that I changed his life or at least his perspectives.

I am thankful for being able to have a positive influence in others so that they can broaden their horizons. At the same time broadening my mind.

10/15/08
Today I just had class and then I went to get some food at the Sant Ambrogio Market with my roommate Polly and we had some really good food for cheap. I bought some prosciutto, bread, olives, dried tomatoes, & fresh pecorino cheese.
That was not cheap but it was really good when I ate it.
Me and Polly shared our meal and we ate in a small piazza on a bench. We talked and had a very pleasant meal.

We then went home and I went to a competition about Toscany and American Culture. It was a written test that I thought was easy and I met some people from Georgia who were studying here. I thought the test was easy and I really think I have a good chance of winning one of the prizes. It was short and then I went home and did some work until we went out to an apperitivo.

The place was called Dolce Vita and it was good. They had some good food nothing worth mentioning. After we ate our fill we began to walk home and I spotted a place that I had been wanting to go called La Cite. On Wednesdays there are Tango lessons for 5 Euros and I hopped in and I was warmly welcomed and I decided to stay. I talked with all the organizers and instructors and got to get a dance before the concerto began. A piano man played several songs that were very pleasing. One of the instructors got me an expresso which was very nice so I was energized all night.
I then went on a walk with a friend I had met on one of our excursions and we practiced some dancing in the Piazza della Signoria. I feel like I can be myself and not worry about what others think. Here is why, I was dancing and just being me in public and at no time did I feel shy or concerned about what other people might think of me for dancing and being silly in the middle of the piazza.

I am thankful for being able to express myself naturally without allowing the social norms to affect my true self expression.

10/14/08
So I forgot to mention that the day before we participated in an Italian Protest. Apparently, the government wants to privatize many of the public schools and thus limit the amount of people who can afford to go to school. In the long run and when you look at the big picture this will only increase the gap between the rich and the poor.
I understand the frustration of the Italian people, matter of fact they took over the schools as a way of protesting. I had never been in a thing like this before and it was weird to be in a mob. It seemed like many students were there just to hang out and have something to do. Others were more into it and there were professors there too because part of all these changes would affect them...they would get fired.

But on a lighter note I went to Pisa to practice my Italian and I barely made it on the train! They changed the track and I end up having to run.
But I made it there and I got to enjoy an authentic Italian meal that I helped cook and I got all of my Italian homework done.

On my way back on the train I was mistaken for an Italian. It was pretty cook to be mistaken for a local, I don't know but that felt good. Then I talked to the girl on the other seats who was asked for directions and said she only spoke english. So I started to talk with her and I ended up taking her to her hostel. I felt so good about myself and happy to have helped a complete stranger. I know how difficult it is to navigate around Italian cities and I just helped her out and went out of my way. I wasn't selfish and I wasn't caught up in my own world like most people from back home and I am no less guilty of that myself. But that is why I felt so awesome when I was able to help her reach her hostel and she was very thankful.

Then on my way home I was approached by a couple who was looking for the train station. They asked for Via Nazionale and had I not helped that girl I wouldn't have known where that street was but I did so I gave them directions in PERFECT ITALIAN and oh boy did I feel like a champ. I was so happy because they said "muy claro" which means very clear. I went home and shared a meal with my roommate Polly who cooked up some eggs and we talked for a while.

Today I am thankful for learning more about the whole karma thing. I now feel like I understand it more. Earlier I was helped and now I help someone else and I brought the food for dinner earlier and now I am getting food. You get more than what you give when you are genuine and honest about giving.

Picture waiver.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 12:22:00 +0000

For some reason the Pictures will not load online. So I will do it later when I have stronger internet. Today is my relaxing day. I went to the Market I am doing laundry and going to work and read and then later go out into town. ciao a tutti con molto amore!!

Another week...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 12:16:00 +0000

10/13/08
Today I slept in and went to the San Lorenzo Market with some of my roommates. On our way there we did some clothes shopping I got this really cool white sweater and a red shirt. I then got some fresh pasta and super tasty fruits and veggies.
Then I came home cooked, ate, did some laundry, and worked on my blog.
Then after I worked on my blog cooked and ate again. I made some soy sauce chicken with fresh pasta and then I got dressed to go out to an Opera.

The we went on an adventure and made it to the Opera 5 minutes late. It was really cool because it was held at an ex church. It had religious paintings all over the place and an alter piece that was pretty cool. I have never been to an Opera so this was my first time and I was pleasantly pleased. There were like 6 or 7 songs or pieces and I was amazed at the awesome tone of her voice and how it fluctuated through the room. There were times when it reverberated through my body and I would get the chills. Then the piano man played some really nice piano songs.

10/12/08
So the alarm goes off and it is so dark that I thought it was like 4 in the morning. But in reality it was 9am!! The Bolognese people have blinds that look like garage doors and completely block out the light. Great for afternoon naps when all the restaurants are CLOSED!! It all makes sense now!
We shower eat breakfast pay for the hotel and leave. This time we were smart and took the bus downtown.
We got off at the train station and start to wander. We end up checking out one of the most elaborate and elegant ancient city gates. Next to it was what I can only assume to be the ancient sewer because it smelled pretty bad. (INSERT PIC)
We then went up to a park with a pretty marble staircase and sculpture. (INSERT PIC)
I observed something really fascinating about the Italian culture. I was proud of myself for being able to observe the world around me with such great detail. So what I observed was that ALL the benches around the fountain were occupied by mature women in pairs or threes. It was the coolest thing to observe. The guys were at a different part of the park at the tables. Then the children were playing on the jungle gym. I was able to see the lifestyle that this society lives in. Sundays are family days everyone goes out and relaxes. Later that night when we were eating at the restaurant the waiter said it was slow because that's the day people eat with their families.
But before I get to that we met up with some friends of some of the people we were with and they gave us a locals tour. It was really cool because we got to see and learn about some unusual things. Such as this crazy cool phenomenon...you speak into a wall and the person opposite you can hear you!! (INSERT PIC)
Then we went to two churches and then to what I consider to be THE BEST gelato I have tasted yet!!! (INSERT PIC) It was sooo amazingly good on Via Castilogone or something like that right past the city wall gate. Oh wow it was really amazing. I had Strawberry and Limon and it was like I was eating the actual fruit and it just melted in my mouth. It was soo good that I wanted to get another one and another.

We then made our way to another church and had some toasted chestnuts that were very good because they were freshly baked and were still warm. All these churches were really really high and elaborate. The main church had an astrological clock where everyday at noon through a hole in the ceiling it shines on the spot that marks that day. It was really cool to see this awesome precision of measurements.
We then went to a Church called San Lucca at night and what's cool about it is that it has a covered portico going all the way up the mountain! This was for all the pilgrims and each arch was made by a different person or in honor of someone or commissioned by someone different.
The meal was...do I really have to say it? Nothing less than amazing. We sampled all of the typical authentic foods of Bologna in one sitting. Read more about it in my food blog.
Our trip back was interesting because we got a ticket back to Florence but to an out skirt of the city. From her there was suppose to be another train that takes us to the main station. So we get here and we watch the other train take off... the crazy thing is that at no point in time did I feel fear or panic or anything like that. It was funny because I had told some of my friends, "Not to be negative but what do we do if there is no train to take us to the main station?" They said "Oh don't worry there will be one"
From experience I have learned that, that's not always the case and I can't always count on things to go as planned. So we were walking down the stairs and I ask this girl in Italian where she was going and our situation. I figured she was in the same boat and then we both walked out of the station and she took care of the language barrier and got us on a bus with her. It turned out she was from Spain and we talked the whole way home. It was cool getting to know her and learn about her story. I have learned to trust the world and know that if I let it unfold it will take its natural course and help me achieve my goals and reach my destinations.
I can't impose my will on it and try to change it. I just have to be in touch with my surroundings and in touch with the world and it will give you all the answers. I have learned that things happen for a reason and I just have to trust the world. It's crazy talk sometimes but I think that when placed in a situation like this (Foreign Environment) were you are forced to see the world in a different way you get to experience and learn a lot about yourself and the world around you and about life in general and what is important.
In this case I met a really cool person and who knows what will happen.

I have a great sense of peace and serenity. When it comes to things that I have to do I have them all in my mind and simply do what needs to be done one at a time and forget about he rest. I am practicing disciplined focus of tasks. Basically, I do one thing at a time and forget about the rest...a kind of trance. When I am done I work on the next project. Nothing else matters until I am done, I think that this is what people consider living in the moment. One moment at a time and that's it, until the next moments.

"Life should be measured not by your breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away."~Don't know who said this.

I am thankful for being able to learn to trust the world and have the opportunity to grow as a person.

10/11/08
Today we decided to go and get some good grub in Bologna. We left our house at 10am to leave at 10:38am but it turns out that not everyone wanted to pay the premium price of 30 euros to get a direct trip there. So we went to Prato and then from Prato we went to Bologna.
The deal was that we paid less but we would leave at 11:38 and then when we were in Prato we had to wait another hour. So it took us about 4 hours to get to Bologna which is only an hour away...
But we got there and we went to our hotel and left our stuff. We were super hungry so we went on a mission to find food in this paradise for the palate...boy were we wrong. We walked about 10 minutes and arrived at our first Trattoria and it was closed. We thought okay one closed not a problem. We then walked some more and soon realized that the only thing that was open was cafe's who sold pizza slices and panini's.
So we were starving but not going to eat what we can eat in Florence. Oh and a funny story is that when we were at the front desk of the hotel we asked the receptionist where we could eat. He said and I could not believe it..."Burger King is that way." I just laughed and felt so offended but after an hour of looking for a place to eat even McDonald's looked good and we were close to getting a burger when we stumbled on a bar that had an Aperitivo and we at there. I had this small cheese pizza and one of my friends had a plate of veggies and cold pasta it was funny that this is what we had come down to.
Then on our journey to the city center we stopped by a grocery store and I bought a packet of salame and ate that alone. It was ridiculous yes I know but I had to do what I could to quench my hunger.
We finally made it to the city center and as if we hadn't walked enough we decided to walk up the tallest tower of the city to get a panoramic view. It was long narrow and exhausting but at the end or should I say at the top it was all well worth it. (INSERT PIC)
By now it was like 6:30pm so we start our restaurant search. We were looking for something that was not on the beaten path. We find something and decided to stay by the flip of a coin.
It was fate that led us to this place and it was really good. I remember looking at our primi and thinking "Oh man this looks weak" then I took a bite and it was so good. It was buttery, but for the details I'll right them in my food blog. We then make our way home and walk back the whole 40 minutes. This time it didn't feel like it was that long though. We played games on our way there and time flew. We get to our hotel and talk for a little bit then crash out we were tired.

10/10/08
Today we went to a Pecorino Cheese factory and learned how to make cheese and then went to a winery to sample the wine with the cheese we got at the factory. It was a glorious combo and I drank on an empty stomach because I apparently didn't eat enough in the morning. I just burn through my calories like a Ferrari goes through gas!! I am serious I don't know what to do.
The wines were really good and I am looking to see how I can work with this winery.
So we get back and I took a two or three hour nap and then I wake up eat, shower and get ready to go out and dance the night away. I went out with some locals to a place were they dance Salsa. I gave my friend a lesson and I was just so happy to even be there and in the ambiance watching people dance. I felt like I was in Santa Barbara for some reason...
I had a great time overall. At one point the DJ did a line dance with salsa and it was really fun.
So here is a story worth telling...Italians are known for A) not being very organized and planning their stuff out and B) being extremely good at improvising and coming up with solutions in the moment.
I witnessed these two things that night. First off the driver wasn't sure how to get there but we made it through all these crazy narrow streets that literally only one car could pass through thankfully there were no other cars coming.
When we left we could leave the same way we came, maybe it had something to do with the lack of two way streets I don't know. Anyhow, we get in the car and just go...where literally nobody knew but somehow we ended up on some main street. I saw a sign that said PORTA ROMANA -> but I didn't say anything I am not the local. So we go another way and we end up outside of Florence we then turn around and head back through some other streets at one point we were literally going to go in a circle then the girl goes in reverse in the street and pulls back into a red light...totally illegal, but waits at the red light until it turns green and then goes some other way.
We end up somehow in Florence's center and I just get out near the Central San Lorenzo Market which is like 10 minutes from my house and then I walk home. All this took place around the hours of 2:00am. So there wasn't much traffic but still it was late and I got to see a different side of Florence. The one that doesn't have any tourist and only the locals are out yelling and drinking.
I briskly walked past all this and crashed into my bed when I got home.

10/09/08
Today for my Leonardo Da Vinci class we went to the Human Anatomy Museum that was founded in like 1700's. It was crazy to see all these human body parts, granted they were made from wax but still they were very very accurate, realistic, and too vivid for me. I wasn't too fond of today's little field trip.
Then on my way back I saw this rotisserie place and I got some lasagna and potatoes with sausage for 6 euros, it was alright nothing special.

Then I ate it at my food and wine class and I got to learn about the production of wine which was really cool and interesting!! I can't wait until next week when I learn how to properly taste wine. I am so excited.

I came home slept for like two hours woke up and then had a metaphysical conversation about a human's purpose in life with my roommate. It was interesting because I get to strengthen my beliefs and learn about other people's thought process and perspectives.

We then went to an aperitivo with our school, but I had invited a girl from another school who wanted to check out the whole aperitivo scene too. We pretty much got a full meal for the price of one drink and the food was really good. We had all kinds of pasta and stuff like that. It was cool because we taught each other about the history about Florence and where we are from which was pretty cool to learn about.

Then I went home and I was invited to go clubbing and I did. I wasn't too excited to go out but I am very glad I did, I had a lot of fun and I danced until I left. It was a lot of fun, but I was kind of weird hanging out with so many Americans and being surrounded by so much American Culture. I got to see a lot of people from my class and it was cool to see them in a very relaxed social setting outside of class. Its such a completely different interaction that you can have with people.

I am thankful to be surrounded by good people who can give you that little push to be great and live life. I would not have gone out had my roommate not invited and convinced me and I had a great time.

10/08/08
Today we watched a movie in our international class that was boring and one sided. After class I caught up on some internet work and then we went to the Pitti Palace's Bobili Gardens. They were amazing here are some photos (Photos here) I just find it hard to believe that this was a families house!!
After that I went home and cooked some food and got ready for my soccer game. We ended up losing but it was a lot of fun and I built a lot of team bonding spirit. Or what ever you want to call it. Here is a picture of my team. (Photos here)
I played everything from goalie to defense and offense. There could only be 5 people on the field from each team at a time.
Then one of the girls from the opposing team came to our house to eat because she lives with an Italian family and doesn't get to meet a lot of people so she hung out and turned out to be pretty cool.

I am thankful for being able to take advantage of all the opportunities that I am presented with while here.

One more month and one less...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 10:28:00 +0000

10/07/08
Today I went to class and then afterwards went to the San Lorenzo market. As you can tell I am getting really familiar with this place. Today I learned about why people are healthier here to a certain extent and why food tastes so much better.
So with this new knowledge I went on a splurge and bought 3 apples, 2 pounds of bananas, 3 tomatoes, 1 lemon, a bunch of super sweet grapes, and a thing of basil. All for 6.65 Euros or 9 dollars. I don't know if that's a good deal compared to the US but I then bought a panini for 5 Euros and knew that the produce I bought was a good deal when you put things into perspective.
I came home and had some grapes and then took care of business.
I had dinner with my roommates who made some awesome pasta sauce with sausage it was restaurant grade food.

I am happy to be able to dedicate time to this blog and be able to share my experience with others. It makes me happy to share: time, experiences, food, and in general thoughts with others.

10/06/08
Today I woke up late again, but I was more productive. I went to the San Lorenzo Market and got some fresh pasta and fruits. I then went to school took care of some business then came home and cooked a meal for some friends. All improvised, I just invited them over and I made it happen. It was funny because my engineer roommate was all worried because I didn't "plan" it out. I told him to relax and just go with the flow and sure enough everything turned out okay.
It was funny because the meat was pork with a lot of fat and we couldn't cut it. So that was funny, but other than that it was a success we ended up not doing a thing in the recipe book and did our own thing which was really cool. We had a good/decent meal and then just socialized and talked about random stuff and watched deal or deal in Italian.

I am thankful to have been able to cook for others and be able to give this gift of life...food. I enjoyed the company and the ability to bring people together.

10/05/08
Oh yeah today I just lazied around all day and barely got out of bed. I wasn't feeling too good and I needed rest. I got out of bed made some food and then went to walk around. At Santa Croce there was a mini Oktoberfest with many beers and a lot of food. I came back home and cooked something here and then just stayed in.

10/04/08
Today we got up early and went to Pisa and Lucca as part of our program trips. I slept on the bus ride there cuz I was tired from the night before so I missed out on the scenery but I think I have seen a lot of it as it is. We got into Pisa and went into the Campo Santo and the Baptistry. I had already been there so I wasn't all into it plus I was feeling a little ill. I just went out on the lawn and just relaxed under the sun and it felt so delicious.
We then went to Lucca and this was a really cool town because it is fully enclosed by the original city walls that are huge!

We were given bikes and we rode on the wall.
I then went around on my own and stumbled across an old Roman Amphitheather that was converted to a Piazza and covered up by houses and restaurants.

Then later that evening I went back to Pisa to go to a fair with a friend and it was really cool to be able to socialize with Italians. It was a lot of fun and I had a burger Italian fair style and it was actually very tasty as you can read in my food blog.

Today I was happy to have been able to do so much and have seen so much. I am very fortunate and thankful for this great opportunity.

10/03/08
So today we got up early to go to a day trip with our Leonardo Da Vinci class. We went to Pistoia and Vinci. Pistoia was such a cute little town nothing big just picturesque. We went into some churches to see some pieces of art that relate indirectly to the studies of Leonardo.
Then we went to Vinci and got to see the some of the models of his machines and his house where supposedly he was raised. It was really cool to get to see the countryside. The bus driver had a GPS I am serious for shear looks because he didn't use it. The thing said turn left and he would turn right it said turn here and he would go straight. I was at the front so I go to see all this and my teacher was so frustrated because the driver didn't know where to go.
I was enjoying the views they were pretty.
After we got back to Florence I had dinner at one of the girl's house. We had chicken with rice and it was pretty bomb! We then watched: "When Harry met Sally" I had never seen the movie and it was really funny I enjoyed it a lot. It was a really cool relaxing evening.

I was happy to have established great friendships that are sincere and can share a meal at someone's house in comfort.

10/02/08
Today after class practically everyone from my program went out. All to different places but none the less out. I went with some people to watch a soccer game for my school. I was so antsy about playing that I jumped in on the game with my Sketchers, wife beater undershirt, and jeans. I didn't care how I looked I just wanted to help anyway that I could and I made some good plays and people were all impressed with my skills. Then afterwards some of us went to a girls house for dinner and we had a big meal and then went out to a karaoke bar Irish Pub. It was really boring at first but then later I sung a spice girls song with a friend. I didn't have anything to drink I didn't feel like drinking beer. It just doesn't appeal to me over here for some reason. It was really cool to just be able to hang out with people and have a good time getting to know others.

I was thankful for having the drive to just get out there and do something and go with the flow and spend some quality time with some cool people.

10/01/08
Today my brother came to class with me and it was really cool because we had an awesome lecture that was really informative and I know my brother learned a lot. After that we went on a mission to search for Enoteca or a wine bar. We found it after a great while of searching an had each two different kind of wine with some different cheeses. We had some deep conversations and delved into the psyche of all of us. I think the wine helped to open us up a bit.
We then went to this restaurant called La Sostansa it was oh wow so so so good. Again the chicken was amazing and the Florentine Steak was really so amazingly tender and good and juicy. We then call it a night and I take them to the station so that they could leave for Paris.
I come home really happy to have gotten to see them.

The last of September!!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 09:16:00 +0000

09/30/08
So today I went to school and met up with my brother at 12:30 to go to the San Lorenzo market with my class. It was really cool because I learned so much about the market and the history behind it. It was cool to be able to shop with him too because they were all excited to get souvenirs. We went to dinner had some awesome Gelato from this place on the second bridge west of the Ponte Vecchio. It truly was a delight to the tongue. We enjoyed our gelato at that bridge and just talked and spent time together getting to know each other even more so so than before.

09/29/08
I wake up and go to my former hotel and have yet another great breakfast and I even bring back my Argentinean friend an apple. I then go and get my stuff and get on my train and head out. I was very thankful to have met these people and be able to bond with complete strangers. It is a crazy feeling of trust that I have never experienced and I really rejoiced it. The trip back was long but the Alps were amazing. They remind me of the Rocky Mountains I really could tell the difference between Northern Italy and Southern Italy. Austria and Germany was really beautiful everything was so green and lush.

I arrived around 5pm and just relaxed until my brother came back from Bologna. We then went out for dinner and then went home. It was really cool to be hanging out with my brother and being able to share with him my experiences personally.

09/28/08
Today we had breakfast and were practically attached by the hip we didn't want to loose each other. So we went into the Hacker beer tent and stayed there the whole day it was sooooo much freakin fun. Even if it wasn't really fun the beer made it fun. We sung with random people and met so many random people I got a few emails that I don't even know if I should email because I don't think they would remember me anyways. There was so much beer flowing especially because I had a monopoly with the German girls and the other guys would buy everyone beer. So basically I paid for the first one when we were all dry then after that I had like five steins and paid for none of them. It was pretty cool...people are really generous when they are drunk and want to talk to girls hahahaha.
I wanted to stay longer but Nick's ass had to get to the train station and I wanted to make sure that he got there. So I left even though there was more fun to be had matter of fact here is a video for you to see...

I get my stuff and put it in another locker for the next day. I then wander around the station because this was going to be my hotel for the night. I end up meeting this Brazilian girl, an Uruguayan, and an Argentinean guy. We all start talking I get a burger from Burger King that I was craving for free and then we fall asleep on the cold hard floor.

09/27/08
We wake up and its Oktoberfest!! YAY we get breakfast and head out and follow the hoards of people. Let me just say that the breakfast was OH MY GOD GOOD!! By far the best breakfast I have ever had in the history of hospitality places that I have stayed at. There was practically everything under the sun you could imagine for breakfast. Eggs, bacon, cheese, salmon, salami, ham, fruits fruits fruits, cereal, yogurt, milk, coffee, juice, and tea. It was awesome needless to say.
So on our way there some German girls do some chant towards us and we join in on it, thankfully they spoke English so we were able to communicate.
We hang out with them and me and Nick get split later in the day. I go off and do my own thing and then he does his thing. We then end up meeting at the hotel later on that night. It was an experience being alone for a while but it was really cool cuz I met some really amazing people along the way. It was really cool to live life as it came...its so cool to just live without a plan only a goal in mind. I knew I was going to be safe and that I was going to be okay, but I didn't know who, what, or where I was going.

09/26/08
Okay so Nick arrives in the morning and we meet up at il duomo and then head out to the station to start yet another adventure just like the old times. We head North and make a stop in Verona for like two hours so we naturally go out and explore. We make it to the Roman (of course) Amphitheater that is still used for concerts and stuff. We then head back with just enough time to see the "Main Strip" which had a lot of cool stores and restaurants.
We end up getting into Munich at around 8pm and go straight to out hotel to sleep.

09/25/08
So my brother arrived in Venice a day or two ago and he finally made it down to Florence today. I went to the station to meet him and it was so weird to see him. Not in a bad way but in a "I am so far from the normal places that I have seen you normally" way. It was almost as if it was a dream.
We go home and I set him up at my place and then we go out to dinner, but before that he unpacks my stuff that I had requested and oh my bottle of Tapatio mmmm that alone made my day. It may be a simple bottle but for me it means a whole lot more.

We go out to dinner and had some really great food. The chicken was so ridiculously good!! It was like no chicken I have ever had before. I was juicy and savory and oh so soft!! I loved it. We then retired because they were tired and I had to get ready to go to Oktoberfest in Munich.

09/24/08
Today I had class and then in the afternoon I met up with a Friend of a friend. She only speaks Italian and I had to push my self to the limit and speak Italian. It wasn't proper or pretty but I was proud to say that I got the message across and we effectively communicated. We walked around Florence and just chilled. We went to a bar and I got to experience my first aperitivo which is basically happy hour. You buy one drink and get to eat all the cheese, salami, breads, and olives you want. It was really good the wine I got was really good. By the end of the night I was mentally tired all the Italian took its toll on me. I was exhausted, but I learned a lot which was really cool.

09/23/08
Today I went to school and then that afternoon I took a Food Class. I got to make hand-made Tortellini it was so much fun. I was with two friends from school so that made it even more fun. Here are some pictures
We made some awesome dessert from chocolate that was so good. You got to remember that I am not a big chocolate fan but this was really good. We had some wine and I ate until I was stuffed. It was really good needless to say.

09/22/08
Today I woke up Nick went to school and I took my time getting ready. I met up with another friend from school and she took me to see the Spanish steps some church and some other lesser known sites of Rome. It was really cool to be able to just hang out and learn more about the actual city. I then go on an adventure trying to figure out how to get to the train station. So she told me to go to this one street and I end up passing it up and end up at the Tiber river. I start walking the other way which was the wrong way and I ask some lady and she ends up walking with me to a place where I can catch the bus. It is in the wrong direction however so I walk up and I walk down and nothing I then just decide to get on it and go for a trip why not, I was in no rush to return to Florence. I then get to the end of the line and catch it for the other way. It was exhausting all the walking looking for the right way to catch the bus. I get to the station and get my reservation this time at the station. I hope on and head home.

I felt so free and that is what I am most thankful for. The freedom to roam and move around and have people to be able to connect with in different places.

09/21/08
So we wake up to this guy yelling outside....
like at 11am and we eat cold pasta/spaghetti that Nick had made a day ago or so and get on our way. We make it to the Coliseum and get an all day tour. It was very informative and it fulfilled all my expectations. I learned so much and it was amazing to be able to see feel and touch all of this history. We were walking through the forum and ran into this guy who was giving a free tour. Naturally at the end he made his plug which was for a tour of the sistine chapel. This guy was amazing though he was so incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the Roman Empire. We then went to eat after 6 hours of learning about Rome. We went to the Trevi Fountain on our way back and then I crashed out.

I was thankful for being able to see all of these great sight that I have studied for so long.

09/20/08
So today we went on the bike tour and the weather was absolutely amazing!! It was clear and sunny and you could see for miles upon miles. The scenery was very Tuscan what you would imagine Toscany to be like. Rolling hills with big houses on the top of the hills with olive trees and vineyards.

So we started our trek at 9am and we drove to our destination got our bikes and then started to ride up the mountain for about 3 miles. It was kind of exhausting at times but the views made up for it. We got to see the town were Michealangelo was from and the whole Arno Valley. Our first stop was in the town of Fiesole which was a small getaway town from the hustle and bustle of Florentine life. It was an ancient Etruscan town that is on top of a big hill that over looks Florence. From here we went to a peak and just looked at the city and took photos. Like this one...

We then climbed up to our next stop which was a place where Leonardo da Vinci made an observation. He noticed that the ravens were using the heat to glide up into the sky. So he invented his famous flying machines and convinced someone else to jump off a cliff to see if it worked...it didn't but he fixed it and then convinced the same guy who by now had healed to do it again...this time he didn't make it out alive. From here we moved up the mountain and saw more awesome views. Then we reached our next destination a restaurant called Casa del Prosciutto. But before that on our way I stopped to eat some figs with one of the people from the group who had never had a fig in their lives. It made sense though they don't have figs in the midwest.

So at the restaurant we had a full on course and it was awesome. I wrote about the food in my food blog so read about it there. But about the restaurant, I sat at the head of the table and I felt so important and like the Godfather. It was pretty cool actually I kept the conversations flowing and we didn't have a dull moment as long as the wine kept flowing. If that wasn't enough I remember having a shot of expresso to end the meal so I was wired for the ride down. Yes we had to ride down the mountain and it was a lot of fun!!

But before that we went to a winery to see how they made wine and olive oil. It was really cool to see the little garden and all the fruit trees. I felt like this was one of the most peaceful lives a person could live in. But after all I don't think that it could be a life for me. I really enjoyed thinking about how these people live and how similar it was to the life in Mexico that I have seen. I took some cool pictures
I was disappointed with the wine and olive oil tasting. He basically gave us the cheapest table wine directly from a plastic barrel and then said, "Look, here are the wines this place makes they cost blahblahblah if you want some buy it"
I didn't get anything I didn't know how it was going to taste. We then rode down the mountain and on our way we passed by a castle and I stopped to take some pictures and then everyone else started to copy me.
We rode down some super sharp hair pin turns and then at one of these castles we stopped to take some pictures and I found this girl whose birthday was the same as mine year and all!! It was funny because the way we found out was by looking at an address that was 9-11 and I said out loud hmm that's my birthday and then she was like Me too!! So we became friends of course. We then raced down the mountain and it was so exhilarating. Oh man that was the best part I loved the adrenaline rush, it was so liberating.

So after that I went home around 5pm packed my stuff and left for Rome. Just like that easy as 1-2-3 it was crazy that I could do that for some reason. I mean I was in Florence all day and I end up sleeping in Rome. I arrive at the station and find the train and get on. I am early so I am getting comfortable when I reach into my pocket to pull out my ticket and realized I left it in my other jacket that I had just switched. I jump off and go back home to get the ticket. I then get some more stuff that I thought would have been useful and then I go back to the station. I get there and get some food, so I walk out and then jump on it again and try again. Then I get asked for my ticket to realize that I needed a reservation ticket...and it costs me 8 euros more if I get it on the train. So I pay the guy (even though the thing was almost empty go figure). It was a direct and speedy journey. Upon arrival I met up with Nick and he took me to his house. I felt relieved because I didn't have to worry about how to move around as long as I was with Nick.

That night we went walking around and I was cold. Wanted to get my first reaction of the forum on video and he did and I remember it was pure emotion that was uncensored. This was a moment in my life that I won't forget because for the first time I was standing in front of the birthplace of the civilization I most admire. It was awesome and it gave me goosebumps to see and imagine what this place must have looked like 2000 years ago. Oh man I was just in complete awe.

From my vantage point I could see the Coliseum, the Palantine Hill, and THE Forum along with Trajan's Forum on the far left. We then walked around the Coliseum and we went to the Circus Maximus which is basically a really big horse track where chariots would race.
We went home and the door was locked...and Nick didn't have a key and his roommates were not inside the apartment. So yes I slept outside Nick's apartment for about an hour until his roommate with the key showed up. I went straight to my bed!