"Live Life and Learn"

Truly A Living Legacy

2010-06-17T16:49:00.002-04:00

We were asked to write a few reflections about this Living Legacy Leadership Conference. I've decided to share it with you.

Chabad has truly been a blessing in my life. This conference has only helped to reinforce my love and respect for this organization. There are certain moments in life that show the strength and power of the Jewish people and the Jewish community. The past few days was overflowing with these moments. Whether we were meeting with the Chief Rabbi of Israel, Senators from all over the country, ambassadors and scholars from around the world, or prize winning author Elie Wiesel, we could feel that we were in the presence of greatness. Each and everyone of us was inspired and humbled by their words of wisdom. It was truly a privilege and an honor to meet with such important people, specifically because each one of them was proud to be a Jew. Coming from a family that immigrated to this country to get away from religious persecution, this conference helped to strengthen my connection with Judaism and encourage me to wear my star of David proudly. The Living Legacy conference showed me that success and Judaism are not separate entities, but rather support one another. Our immaculate network throughout the globe proves this. Our communities global impact, with the personal touch added by Chabad, makes me beam with joy. It gives me great security and confidence knowing the well-being of the Jewish people is in the hands of Chabad. They are true leaders and innovators. They teach, inspire, and love. With each and every passing day, another individual is positively influenced by Chabad, and it is remarkable to think that one man's words could have such a ripple effect. Chabad is carrying the torch, a spark started by the Rebbe. I am honored to aid them in their mission, and hope that one day I will be able to give back to them even a bit of what they have given me.

Truely Inspiring

2010-06-17T02:36:00.002-04:00

When we awoke today, we headed back to the St. Regis to meet our police escort. We were dining at Capital Hill with over 100 Rabbi's and other Jewish leaders from all over the world. Once there, we met with numerous senators, house represenatives, and ambassadors from all over who addressed us about Judaism, politics, Israel, government, and of coarse, leadership. It was such an honor for all of these individuals to take time out of their extremely busy schedule to speak with us. Names like Bonner and Joe Liberman were just two of the names in attendance.

Once breakfast was finished, but not before we took pictures in front of the capital, we headed over to hear a pannel of Rabbis speak. The pannel consisted of published authors and PHD's in multiple subjects. I was quite impressed.

During lunch we got to hear from more ambassadors and Rabbis from all over the globe. Each had their own inspiration message to share, and each one was unique and thought-provoking.

When we finished eating, we made our way back to the St. Regis to meet with some very important people. Mr and Mrs. Mayberg met with us. They are the ones who funded us being here, and it was wonderful to meet them both. As they spoke of their own struggles with Judaism and how they became religious, I heard my own voice inside, and could relate. Also, the executive director of AIPAC met with us. He discussed leadership in regards to the defense and pride of Israel.

The speaker I was most excited for though was Elie Wiesel. I had read his book "Night" in tenth and eleventh grade, and even done various projects and presentations on certain aspects of it. Though old and frail, he was truely amench. Through all his hardships, obstacles, and pure torture, he was able to not only survive, but also tell his tale. He is the most beautiful of men with a soul that is optimistic, hopeful, and quite spiritual. It was truely a proud moment when I was able to ask him a question about a certain passage in his book. One thing he said was, "Never try to please anyone. Just be yourself."

After pictures, and a quick scene change, we were headed to our Gala Banquet Dinner Event. Once again, we were addressed by very important people, including Elie Wiesel again, and even some students who discussed their experiences with Chabad.

It is truely inspirational to think that one man, the Lubavitcher Rebbe Menachem Mendel Shneerson, could have such a large impact. Not only were these words, this was a clear and present action. We were there because of him. He always taught that the best way to fight darkness is with light. Each and every day Chabad house, all over the world, follows this message, and spreads this message, and so he lives on. His inspiration is only continuing to blossom and grow, and with each passing day a new man, woman, or child learns of his goodness that lives on today in the Mitzvot of the Shluchim and their congregations.

We must all strive to better ourselves every day. Each and every one of us is capable of making a difference. The Rebbe believed that each act could tip the scale of goodness. Any one kind deed, or mitzvot, could bring Moshiach. What have you done today? Are you tipping the scale in the best direction? Do a mitzvah today... in memory of this great man... Honor this memory with a mitzvah. Just do it. It could just tip the scale.

Ballin in DC... It's not easy bein a VIP!

2010-06-16T02:09:00.002-04:00

Weeks ago, I was selected on behalf of Chabad at Temple to go to the Living Legacy Leadership Conference in DC. With a few schedule adjustments, I quickly made it a point to be there. There was NO WAY I was missing this.

All week my nerves were getting to me. I didn't know what to expect and I couldn't shake this uncommon anxiety. This wasn't my first leadership conference, and hopefully not my last. What was there to worry about?

Last night, some friends took me out to wish me all the best, and still I couldn't shake these nerves. Everything felt like a bad omen. The anxiety was building. The two black cats on the way home didn't help either.

I awoke this morning still feeling anxious, but none-the-less embarked on my journey. The journey itself was miserable. First, there were issues with money. Then, I thought I left my ID at the bank... when I was already half way to DC... then, I thought I couldn't get gas. Once I arrived in DC, in a fairly timely manner, I spent an hour and a half circling the hotel. Just as my bladder was about to burst, tears flooded down my face as I sobbed to my mommy like a little girl.

Once I arrived at the St. Regis... yes that's right, you heard me... I was quickly told that I was staying at the Marriot Courtyard elsewhere. The drama continues. One wrong cab ride to the wrong location, and finally a second cab ride later, I was there. I threw my bags down, I approached the concierge, and I received my key. Top floor... not too shabby!

When I got into my room, the first thing I noticed was the view! I could see the Washington Monument! Too bad I lost so much time. Otherwise, I'd go exploring. As my adorable roommate Dana walked in, we quickly got acquainted and went downstairs to meet others.

Everyone decided to walk, and so I felt the need to not isolate myself by cabbing it back to the St. Regis for registration. As we strolled down Connecticut Ave, we noticed the diverse population of restaurants and bars. There was so many to choose from and each had its own unique style. As we debated whether we'd have time to check any out later, and who had what kind of fake ID, I was thankful that I no longer had to worry about that.

As we arrived at the St. Regis, we were informed that we were a bit early and so decided to take a stroll two blocks over... to the White House. :) As we took out cheesy tourist photos for mom and dad, we all felt slightly important being there "on business." Though we were all slightly disturbed by the anti-Israel protest happening outside, we bit our tongues, and decided it was neither the time or the place to start trouble. We would only make ourselves, our organization, and our schools look bad.

Back at the St. Regis, we were registered and treated to dinner... and an open bar! Name tags that listed not only our names and schools, but also our states, added to the appeal of being there. An heir of importance was felt as we entered the room and received our badges and pins. Dinner was delicious. I was quite impressed. Men and women in tuxedos walked around serving appetizers, while I delighted in some conversation with students from schools all over the country.... Harvard, Princton, Columbia, Penn... just to name a few. ;)

Around 8pm, we had our opening session with Rabbi Sneiderman from University of Delaware and Rabbi Shemtov, who planned the event. As we did a few ice-breakers, it was soon time for our first special guest. Rabbi Yona Metzger, Chief Rabbi of Israel, flew in all the way from the Holy Land to speak with us. It was incredible. It was an intimate setting, and the man spoke with such passion and grace. We could tell we were in the presence of greatness. As he kept a consistent, very sincere smile on his face, you could tell he was a man who took great pride in his work, and more so, derived great pleasure from it. It was truely an honor to meet him. We even got to take pictures with him and was able to ask him a question!

As if that wasn't exciting enough for one night, they had more in store. As they began to hand out snacks, we noticed they became more Jewish by the minute... nuts... crackers... then potato salad... pickles... and then herring... lol... You know just a little midnight snack. Professor Tali Lowenthal flew in from London to join us for a farbrengen. A farbrengen is a Chasidic tradition, when people gather around and discuss topics of religious, philosopical, spiritual, and ethical importance. Often times it is accompanied by watching one self-reflect and have epiphanies about meaningful things to one's life.

By the time we were done, it was 12:30am. As I asked Professor Lowenthal one last question, I missed the first shuttle bus, and had to catch the second back to the hotel. Apparently, this was a gift from G-d in disguise. I ended up meeting another student who used to work for a law school admissions office. He gave me tons of great advise, and I couldn't even be more thankful!

It's 2:40am now, and I gotta be up at 6am. A police escort is taking us to have breakfast at Capital Hill. What can I say? It's not easy bein a VIP. Ballin!

"Adult Moments"

2010-06-11T05:34:00.003-04:00

It has occurred to me lately that we all feel like children most of the time... that is until we realize our growth and or our responsibilities. These are the certain moments in life that make you feel like an adult...

I was recently hired as an intern for a very wonderful company. As I got ready for work one day this week, I began to notice some of these "adult moments." The morning began with a stain. Without thinking too hard about it, I went into the bathroom and in the sink began to wash it out with soup. Though this may not seem like such a big deal to the common eye, I had a moment of epiphany. How would I have reacted to this a year ago, two years ago, five years ago? I would've cried. I would've screamed. I would've ran to mommy and asked her to deal with it. As I thought back to Rome... I recalled washing all my laundry in the bath tub and how annoying it was, but yet, I did it. This one article of clothing was no different. Though there was nothing to freak out about, I had noticed my own personal growth, and thus an "adult moment."

As I walked downstairs in my professional attire, I noticed my father look at me. He looked at me with pride in his eyes. I could tell he was having a "my baby's growing up moment," and thus I began to ponder on my drive to the office. I earned this job. My resume and my interview were something to be proud of. I was/am something to be proud of. And so, I began to think about all the long hours of studying, all the crappy jobs, and all the experiences that went into this resume and interview. These two seemingly minor aspects are not so minor. The way we present ourselves, though in the moment, do not happen in that moment. It takes years of preparation, hard work, priorities, and responsibilities. And so, as I walked into the office, feeling rather good about myself, I had yet another "adult moment."

Throughout my work day, I continued to ponder this idea. Many seemingly irrelevant and insignificant moments in life are actually what add up to mean a whole lot. These moments are exactly what help establish us as the people we become. Every moment spent studying, working, meeting people, hanging out with friends, spending time with family, partying... anything... All these moments add up and turn us into these "adults." It is the experiences we have and the lessons we learn that equate one with adulthood. Yet, it isn't until we have these sporadic moments of reflection that we realize all we've been through and how far each and every one of us has come.

So although I still consider myself a little baby, I suppose that I too have come a long way. And although I still have a long way to go, it is always nice to take a moment, adult or not, to notice where I was, where I am, and maybe even dream about where I'll be.

The Bittersweet Twinge of the End of Another Semester...

2010-05-13T03:51:00.002-04:00

It has come to my attention that the end of each semester creates an inner turmoil inside of me. Though everyone is quite excited to be done with all the work, and more than ready for a break, there's more to it than that.

The last few weeks of any semester for most students is pure torture. It is equivocated with long days and even longer nights. Study sessions that go into the morning surprise no one. Students are bombarded with last minute projects, papers, and those dreaded finals that usually call for last minute cram sessions, which inevitably cause a week long pile up of pulling all-nighter after all-nighter. Baggy-eyed students wonder around like zombies day dreaming of warm summer days to come, longing for nights of partying that turn into mornings, rather than the hellishness that they are currently experiencing.

It is incredible what students actually pull off during these "hell" weeks. One would think that running solely on red bull, coffee, and cigarettes would literally demolish one's body. Yet, the average college student not only gets through it, but recovers from it with a relatively short 4-6hour nap and a drink after their last final, not necessarily in that order. At any younger or older age, this would not be simply impossible. Still, for 20-somethings everywhere, this is all part of the routine.

As one begins to wind down, and attend those last few classes, moods change. Students become miraculously, and almost unexpectedly aware of the fact that they have formed actual relationships with their classmates, and sometimes even their professors. As one of my professors said, "Well, if I don't see ya... have a nice life..." We all giggled and cheered that the class was over, yet a tinge of sadness filled the room. Many of us enjoyed this class. We made friends, class friends. The thing with class friends is, though, that once that class is over, the friendship rarely continues past the completion of the course. The bittersweet tinge sets in. How is it that we create these temporal relationships, that do in fact mean something at the time, and just as quickly let them go?

The end of the semester leads to many questions such as this. It is a time for reflection. Did I enjoy my classes? Did I learn anything? Or, did I just memorize a bunch of stuff to satisfy the criteria in order to get the grade I want? What came out of these four months? Have I changed at all? Am I more ready and capable to enter the real world and work in my field of "expertise"?

This semester I had a few epiphanies regarding these thoughts. I worked harder this semester academically than I have ever worked before. I made it a point to ensure that I would be raising my already decent GPA in order to impress law schools, when I apply in the fall. As I studied extra hard, and even sacrificed some fun and games with friends, I realized that the hard work will pay off. It has to. Right? And that is when I realized it. After three years of studying Strategic and Organizational Communications, with a concentration in Public Relations, I feel certain that if I were to embark upon this career path, I could confidently show an employer that I am worth their time, effort, and money. For the first time in three years, I felt as though I am just about ready and capable to go off into this world, and strive to become an expert in that field. Now, although I plan on going to law school, I know that the work ethic and time management skills that I have established will only lead me to success. For the first time in my college career I saw where my money was going, and realized just how far I have come since freshman year.

As I embark on my next journey... SENIOR YEAR... I am confident. I take with me the lessons I have learned, and look at the bittersweet twinge as a memory of my experiences. It's a reminder of the hardships I've faced, the rewards I was given, and the long road still ahead. For in the end, I am certain all this hard work will, in fact, pay off.

After all, it's like Lucimar Santos de Lima said,
"It doesn't hurt to be optimistic. You can always cry later." ;)

To thine own self be true...

2010-03-17T20:22:00.002-04:00

"To thine own self be true."

This quote has been crossing my mind quite a lot lately. People whisper in my ear. One tells me I should do one thing. Another tells me I should act another way. I try out one approach. I try out a second, and a third, and a fourth... It seems that I always fail. Then, I finally realized what was happening. I was not being true to myself.I was acting the way others would tell me to, responding the way others wanted me to, allowing myself to react the way others expected me to respond.

Though many of my friends feel that we are "getting old," I feel that we are only babies, just beginning to live our lives. I still have much to learn, and a long way to grow. After my 20ish years in this world, I have just now realized that there is no way I will make it out alive, without being true to myself.

As unfortunate as it sounds, no one in this world will look out for me, but me. I am very lucky to have parents who love me, friends who care for me, and plenty of acquaintances that I keep in fairly good relations with. Not one of these groups, though, will get me where I need to be. Even Mommy and Daddy cannot always kiss it and make it better. A broken heart does not mend so easily. No one can study for my lsats or go to law school for me. No one can take care of the drama I face with friends or foes alike. No one will go to the gym for me, or do my make up for me, or even my hair. No one will roll me out of bed in the morning.

It's me against the world, and in order for me to fight this battle we call life, I must be myself, for better or worse. I must improve myself... for myself, not for anyone else. It is my responsibility to be the best me I can be, without letting others interfere. This does not mean I should ignore everyone. I should listen to advice when it is given, and maybe even use it accordingly. I must do it my way though, or I am doomed to fail.

There is an old Yiddish proverb that is loosely translated to say that, "Man makes plans, while G-d laughs." There is a higher power. Whether you are religious or not. Destiny and fate exist. Who I am as a person internally has already been determined and established. Now, it is my job to determine the external factors; my look, my education, my career, my relationships. I have to be me. I gotta do me.

In the words of Ms. Brittney, "Love me. Hate me. Say what you want about me."

I have to be true to myself.

Are you being true to yourself?

Think about it. <3 Roxanne

2010-03-17T20:21:00.001-04:00

Test test... I'm testing out my new text updates. I'm back!

Goodbye 2009!

2009-12-31T21:07:00.002-05:00

May all our best experiences of 2009 be the worst experiences of 2010. Wish everyone all the best. Stay tuned for the first blog of next year. Coming soon... :)

"Live Life and Learn"

2009-12-23T03:07:00.007-05:00

A friend of mine posted an interesting status on Facebook this evening...

:::::Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.::::::::

I have gotten quite a few requests to continue writing, and so I have decided that I will... not every day, but I'll try to keep it regular. Excuse the delayed absence. Being home has been quite a trip.

It's been quite interesting being home. It has almost felt as if I am an outsider looking in... looking in on the culture, the customs, the interactions, the relationships, and the happenings. It has become rather clear to me that more or less, people are as I left them, while I myself have changed and experienced a great deal. I am not the same person I was when I left, and because of it, I am forced to deal with some conflict... mostly internal.

As expected people have moved on with their lives. Some awaited my arrival, others... not so much. It was not until I stepped out though, that I could grasp the situation... any situation... with a true and clear perspective. I have a new attitude, a self-confidence, an independence, and a yearning to continue to broaden my horizon. I spent the last several months on my own, and as difficult and painful as it was, I now realize that this experience taught me the most important lesson of my life. I can make it on my own! As one of my now close friends Jack told me, those who care about you will keep in touch. He was right, they did. Now, I realize it does not matter whether you are 4,000+ miles away or down the street. If someone wants you in their life, they'll make it known, and those who don't will also make it known.

Arthur possibly awaited my return more than anyone. Lena and Aline were two people who made it very clear that my presence was missed, and I appreciate it greatly. Arkady and Yuriy fought for my time. They made it a point to see me, and insisted that I, "pencil them in." haha Maryanna... and even the soccer hooligan, Ilya, squeezed me in for some lovin', as did Leslie. Diana and I have already gone shopping... twice... three times if you count her closet. Jack and Larry still owe me some chill time, though I've been over at their place on numerous occasions since my return. Obviously, we wouldn't have it any other way. lol

I feel as though I am learning to communicate all over again. Let's be real. I spent my semester having an on-going internal dialogue with myself. My self-rehabilitation continues. lol... I giggle about it, but it is true. I have to re-teach myself to communicate with others... and FAST! My PR Professors will not be pleased if I come back spring semester without this skill. Luckily, I have been through so much that I have become a much calmer person. This aids me in getting my point across in a much less hostile manner than before my trip. I feel as though, for the first time in my life, I can call myself an adult. I feel like an adult. I survived 3.5 months in a foreign country on my own. I see things differently. I stress less about the small things, and can now finally see the bigger picture. Some people say, "Live. Laugh. Love." I say, "Live life, and learn."

The Italian way of life has taught me to take it one day at a time, not even one day at a time... take life one moment at a time, and enjoy it. As soon as it's there, it's gone. Now that I have had a chance to be home, I realize that much more how important it was for me to go through each and every struggle I faced while away. Every obstacle, every hardship, and every single tear has a lesson. Have your moment. Smile. Laugh. Scream. Cry. Later though, step away from the situation and figure out what it's purpose was. Every situation in life has a purpose. We may not see it right away, but it's always there.

And so, at the end of the day I'll say this...
There's no place like home... except maybe, Rome. <3

Signing Off... With Love,
<3 Roxusha

Arrivaderci My Roma. I'll miss you. <3

2009-12-12T22:14:00.003-05:00

My adventure has just about come to an end. My cab will be picking me up in less than two hours. I'm going home, back to America... to start the next chapter in my book of life.

As I dedicated myself to being a full-blown tourist today, I couldn't help but reflect upon my trip along the way. I have done and seen so many things. I have experienced so much. I had my ups and downs, and have grown as an individual.

It all seems like a surrealistic dream. Though time dragged on at points throughout my time here, it seems to all be gone in the blink of an eye. Did three and a half months really just pass me by?

Look at all the places I've been...

Todi and Titignano in Umbrio
Tuscania and Santa Marinella in Lazio
Palermo, Monreale, and Mondello in Sicily
Sorrento
Capri... I might have to retire there one day.
All over TUNISIA! Yes, I even made it to Africa.
Venice
Milan
London
Amsterdam
Paris
Florence
And of coarse, my beloved Roma... the place I called home this past semester. <3

Looking at this list astonishes me, and also inspires me. There is so much more I want to see and do. I want to see every last inch of this earth. I plan on starting at home. There is too much of my own country that I have yet to see. I can't wait to see what new adventures lie ahead of me.

I remember my last days in Philly. Packing for three months seemed beyond overwhelming. I had fears and concerns about leaving... all of which still stand true. Truth be told, now that it's over, I have some fears about coming home...

Once I got to Italy, I had to learn to adapt to their culture, to their way of living. I was on their turf, and had to play by their rules... and IN ITALIANO!!! Exploring and falling in love with what I now call, My Roma, was heavenly. It really is a magical, magnificant city. Figuring out my routine, my local deli, even a trip to the grocery store was an experience. I remember the first time I rode the metro by myself. I was so proud of myself for getting around the city on my own. I was like a baby, learning and experiencing things for the first time. It was as if I was taking my first steps. Cafes, the mafia bakery and Ottaviano bakery goods, and of course my precious gelatto are all things I will miss terribly. What will my life be like without such sweetness? I think I can hold off on the pasta for a while though. haha

The trip wasn't without its downfalls though. Obstacles and pitfalls were around every corner, and I had to learn how to deal with them... on my own. Slowly, but surely, the little baby had to grow up... quickly. Mommy and Daddy weren't around to kiss my knee when I got a boo boo.

Classes seemed to be an obstacle in and of itself. I was honestly planning for an easy semester. I mean how hard could Italian, Design, Sculpture, and Drawing for none majors be, right? Wrong. This was one of the most challenging semesters I've had. This was mainly due to the fact that I'm not used to taking such classes. It was intense. I made it out alive though, and now they're over. :)

Though I can't wait for the many conveniences of home, and of coarse, my friends and family, I will miss Roma and Italy terribly. It's almost seems weird going home. This has become my home. What will "home" be like, feel like to me after so long?

No longer will I be able to jump on the metro and see the Coloseo. No more strolling down Via Del Corso, and without realizing it walking all the way to Piazza Venezia. No more gelatto near Vitorio Emanuele Metro stop, or Old Bridge, or Della Palma near the Pantheon and Piazza Navuona. The Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain will no longer be in my backyard, and although PennyPack Park is nice... no more Villa Borghese to take a stroll through when I'm done with classes.

It's been quite an experience. I wouldn't give it up for anything. Yes. I'll definitely miss it, but I'm ready to come home. I hope home is ready for me.

Signing Off for the last time in My Roma... :'(
Ciao Bella... and Ciao Roma. I'll never forget you.

On the First Night of Chanukkah...

2009-12-11T19:12:00.002-05:00

On the first night of Chanukkah my true love game to me... a marching band blasting Christmas Charols in the morning, Rome finally decorated for Christmas, and 3 Swastikas along the way. <3

This morning to a brass band outside my window charoling. Though slightly annoyed that it was sooo loud, I couldn't help but smile, and wish I was playing with them too! I miss my trumpet, and I miss Mr. HERRMANN!!! <3

Daniella and I had our Rome date today. We grabbed some panini and picked up her Austrailian friend Isaac. Then, we made our way to the Pantheon, and then to the best espresso place in Rome. From there, we walked towards Piazza Venezia, and made our way to the top of the Vittoriano Monument. The view of Rome from that high up is simply breath-taking. It's incredible. You could see all of Rome... Piazza del Popolo, the Vatican, the Coloseum, the Forum, the Teatro di Marcello, the Jewish Ghetto, the Capitoline, and soooo much more. I'm really glad I got up there again.

From there, we walked through the Jewish Ghetto to Trastevere to meet up with Dustin and Christy for lunch. Along the way, three swastikas reminded me how I can't wait to go home and celebrate my holiday. We had lunch at a place called "On the ROX Roma." It was obviously waiting for me. lol I even got to take my picture on the vespa they rented for the day! Yay!

After lunch, we finally made our way to my gelatto mecca. I've been waiting too long for this. My flavors were calling my name. The second I took that first taste, it was simply orgasmic. What flavor, what taste, what heavenly goodness. Mmmmm..... I don't know how I will live without my Black Passion and Passion Fruit. I'll have to fulfill my passion quota in some other way. haha

When we finished our gelatto, we started to make our way towards Piazza Navuona, but instead stopped so Daniella could get her hair cut. She cut it short... bob short... and it looks soooo hot!

Afterwards, we made our way back to the residence and I made dinner for everyone with whatever scraps we had left. Then, I did Danielle's makeup, and they headed out.

Happy First Night of Chanukkah to Everyone!

And... since it's after midnight... a special birthday shout out to Larry T! Wish you all the best! Hope you have an incredible time at your party! Happy Birthday!!!

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Ciao Temple Shit-Show!

2009-12-10T20:05:00.002-05:00

I had my last final today. I'm not sure how I did, but I genuinely tried my best. More importantly, it's OVER!!!! Ahhh!!! Feels good!!!

After the thrill of excitement associated with being done with finals, I realized this meant my time in Rome is also coming to an end. Again, those bittersweet emotions crossed my mind and my heart.

Temple threw a Farewell Pizza Party for us in the evening. As I walked there by my lonely self, I wondered if there was any reason I was showing up other than avoiding cooking dinner... No one would notice if I didn't show up. I'm not being dramatic. No one would notice. Still... as I walked along the Tiber and pondered to myself, I knew I was going to miss this place. It had been my home for almost 4 months, how could I not? With everything that's happened, I wouldn't give up this semester for anything. Every smile, as well as every tear made me a stronger person, transformed me, taught me lessons very quickly that others may take a lifetime to learn.

Only 20 minutes into this, "party," which was really a drunken shit-show, I had decided to leave. I was completely sober, and uninterested in watching the embarassment that was my classmates. Plus, like I said... no one cared whether I was there... or not. Still, someone managed to have me escort a drunken girl home... a girl I didn't even know the name of... that was almost passed out.

It was quite a trip home, and quite an evening...

Two more days... I can do this. Two more days, and no finals to stress me out. It's time to enjoy my last few moments in Roma. Tomorrow I'm hanging out with Danielle. Saturday, I have a date with My Rome. I can't wait... <3

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Project-Air

2009-12-09T19:04:00.003-05:00

I know I already posted today, but a friend informed me of a great cause, and I'd like to spread the message. I figured why not use this blog to maybe do some good as well. We can all make a difference if only we care enough to take a moment of our time and think about another.

Please check it out. It only takes like 2 minutes.
Make a difference. Even if you don't donate, spread the word. Thank you.

www.project-air.org

Signing Off Again,
Ciao Bella...

One More Final To Go!!!

2009-12-09T18:54:00.002-05:00

I woke up at 10:30am today. It's 1am, and I've been studying since 11am. FML.

This week seems to be taking forever. I can't wait to get this final over with though.

Sorry for the short blog. Unless you all want to see the 17 pages of notes I wrote out for myself, that's all I got. Gotta get back to studying... Wish Me Luck!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Calma, Calma

2009-12-08T18:41:00.002-05:00

I had my sculpture critique today. Good riddens! Ciao Roberto!
Apparently, I am too concerned about my grades. Last time I checked being concerned about your grades is a good thing, but what do I know? Apparently, I shouldn't give a damn.

Since I was little, my teachers always told me I'm very anxious. Duh! Have you not had me all semester as a student? I want an A. Period. "Calma, calma," Roberto told me. As I giggled to myself recalling how another Italiano told my dad, calmo calmo... nervi nervi... only a couple years ago, I realized that I really am daddy's little girl. lol ;)

One more final, and I'll be done. Thank goodness. These classes were far more intense than I had planned for my time abroad.

Ryan printed me the Moulin Rouge night-time black and white photo he promised me from when we were in Paris! He's a sick photographer. One day, he'll be famous, and I'll have one of his earlier works!

I came home and napped... for like 3 hours... hopefully this is aiding in my recovery. Then, Daniella and I did dinner, and I shat around online as per usual form.

Only 4 more days to go. This week seems to be dragging on forEVER. I'm must be very "anxious" to get home... calma, calma... lol

Gelatto Withdrawl

2009-12-07T17:56:00.002-05:00

Today has ended. This means I only have 5 days left in Roma. I need to get better. I'm itchin... You see... over the past semester... I have acquired a new addiction... a gelatto addiction. When I became sick LAST Sunday, I promised I would contain myself so that I can have a speedier recovery. As I began to get better, this past Sunday I woke up worse. Today, I am feeling better, but still sick... I have 3, maybe 4 gelatto places I need to visit before I can leave Roma. That means tomorrow is the last day I can be sick. Wish me luck. lol

I was pretty productive today. I went into school planning on finishing my final project for sculpture. Since I had finished earlier than expected, I decided to go back and alter some of my previous projects in hopes of a better grade.

This evening, I made a lovely dinner for myself.

Menu:
My favorite bottle of pink wine
Fresh cut of fish
Fettuccini in a four cheese sauce
Green Beans

Mmmm... if only I could get some desert... Oh gelatto... I promise we will be reunited again before I leave. Don't think I have abandoned you. I still love you with all my heart. lol <3

I also took a 3 hour nap. Hopefully, that will help fight all those bastards inside of me. :)

Oh Roma... How I'll miss you so...

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

One Week.

2009-12-06T17:25:00.003-05:00

I woke up sicker than I've been all week. I guess I tired myself out yesterday.

In my daze and confusion of the afternoon sun, I signed onto facebook to notice a message from Karnel. "I met your babyshka. She's a very sweet lady." It was then followed by a facebook chat message that read, "heyyy." Panicked that Karnel works/ed for an ambulance company, I thought something (g-d forbid) happened. Why did you meet my babyshka? Is everything ok? Tell me she's ok... As I became flooded with emotions, tears began to stream down my face...

Turns our Karnel and his dad are fixing her bathroom. As a sigh of relied left me, I appologized for my spaz, and realized I was loosing my mind.

The rest of the day wasn't much different.

Around 6pm, only four hours after I awoke, I took a nap... only to be interupted by a call from my parents. Again, a daze of confusion made me panick. I've got to shake this cold. It's messing with my head.

Leslie
today its a roxanne sunday in the NE

Roxanne
what does that mean?

Leslie
its like cold out but rly sunny .. a beauitful day for a drive and some coffee mmmmmmm

Roxanne
:)

Later in the evening, I began to look through my blog. I've done sooo much in the past 3.5 months. The time flew by, and it almost seems like a blur. It's been one crazy ride... to be recapped later in the week. I can't wait to see everyone!

Preparing for my last critique and my last final, this week is sure to fly by too fast. Hopefully, my cold will disappear, and my knee and ankle will cooperate so that I can enjoy my Roma just a little longer. I can't believe it's almost over.

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

A Day Trip to Florence... Because I Can. lol

2009-12-05T20:44:00.002-05:00

We began our day before the sun even came up. Danielle, Ryan, and myself met downstairs at 6am, and made our way to Termini to catch a train to Florence. None of us have been, and we felt we couldn't leave Italy without seeing David. <3

When we arrived, we bought a map, and began to navigate our way around. As we walked out of the main train station, we were greeted by the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria Novella. From there, we began our hunt for the Accademia. That's where David lives. :)

As we walked through the streets, everything seemed oddly quiet to me. Maybe everyone was still sleeping. We grabbed a panino and continued along our way. Along the way we stopped everywhere for pictures. Ryan, armed with two cameras, was our expert. Danielle and I, also into photography, marveled at his skill.

The Accademia surprised us. No sign of Mussolini in Florence. haha... No grand entrances or road ways... just what seemed to be a quiet little door, not many people, and a little sign. Inside, we were lucky enough to see a temporary musical instrument exhibit, as well as a Robert Thorpe exhibit, along with all the permanent classics. David was by far my favorite though. He was so large and grand. I wasn't expecting him to be quite so incredible. I only feel bad that I couldn't take pictures. He really was glorious. <3

From there, we made our way to the Duomo. It really was a site to behold. This decorative church looks very different from the churches we have in Roma. The exterior was intricately creative, while the inside, though grand, was rather plain. We wanted to go to the top, but my knee and ankle are still bothering me, and the others did not want to pay the 15euro fee. And so, we continued our journey.

Apparently Florence is known for its leather, and so we stopped in many outdoor markets, as well as stores along the way. Daniella bought a belt. Ryan bought his mom a purse, and his step dad a wallet. Even I bought something... for myself... a beautiful leather bag. That's right, I'm coming back stylin. haha

Before heading towards the fake David, we stopped in for some hot chocolate to warm up. Then we had some gelatto... because well... it's just so yummy. lol

Next stop? Palazzo Vecchio to take pictures of the "fake" David. This replica was nothing to laugh at. It too was very impressive. From there, Danielle and I went into the Uffizi, while Ryan stayed back to take some more pictures. Inside the Uffizi, we got to see many great works of art including Botticelli's "Birth of Venus," some Leonardo DaVinci originals, and even some Caravaggio's. Though very exhausting, and hard on my injuries, it was well worth it. There were even some nice views once at the top. :)

After the Uffizi, we went to take pictures of, and walk on the famous Ponte Vecchio. It was covered with jewelry stores. The streets around it were all lit up for Christmas. It was beautiful. Afterwards, we sat down to have a nice dinner.

It was a really nice day. We ended up heading back quite late... so late that when we arrived the metro was closing. So, we decided to take a bus.

After taking the wrong night bus, we were forced to walk to a bus stop that we for sure knew went to our residence. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Roma at night is even more magnificent than during the day. As we walked past the Coliseum, the forum, Piazza Venezia, and other such monuments, I thought of just how much I'm going to miss having it right in my backyard. Nothing compares to My Roma. <3

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Another day in the apartment...

2009-12-04T15:31:00.003-05:00

Someone died today... someone I do not know... someone young... who died of cancer. As I watched my friends' statuses on facebook flood my feed with R.I.P. and other such sentiments, I wondered. R.I.P... A three letter acronym... Is that all our lives come down to in the end? People are dropping like flies. Someone needs to find a cure.

I woke up late, and spent most of the day doing laundry. Then, I made a delicious dinner... for three. I convinced my roomate Emily to join me, and then Danielle called and I invited her over as well. I made fresh vegetable soup, salad, and roasted chicken with vegetables and herbs. It was really good. Everyone was pleased. :)

Tomorrow, I'm planning a day trip. I'll be sure to tell you all about it when I return.

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Bittersweet Emotions

2009-12-03T17:25:00.002-05:00

The bittersweet emotions really took over today. It finally hit me. It's all ending. It's almost over...

I woke up early today, and was out the door in a hurry. I arrived at school for my drawing final critique just in time. We did group critiques for our final project, and then recieved our individual critiques and evalutations for the whole semester. I did pretty well... A-

Just enough time for a quick run to the deli for a panino, and it was time for my Italian final. It was long, and difficult. Still, I think I did fairly well. When I walked out of it though, it hit me. No more Cristiano. I almost got a bit teary-eyed saying good bye to him. I'm going to miss that silly man. lol... And then I realized... not only was I not going to see Cristiano... this crazy rollercoaster of a semester is ending. My time abroad is ending. I'm going home soon. More so, after everything that's happened, and everything I've seen, done, experienced, and felt, I'm really going to miss this place I called home for almost four months of my life.

It's strange what a rush of emotions I felt today. I spent most of the day reflecting. It was very emotional... and yet again, lonely. I didn't really have anyone to talk to about how I was feeling. What was it going to be like being home again? Will I ever get to see MY Roma again? I've missed everyone so much. Did they miss me? Did they even notice I was gone? Have they moved on? Will I be able to get back into the swing of things, or have to many things changed? Have I changed, or rather... have I changed too much? Will my friends really want to hear about my adventures? Will they even care? Will it all just be a blur to me?

I'm torn up inside by the thoughts flooding my mind. Will this internal monologue I've had the past three plus months finally find an outlet, or have I isolated myself even from my closest friends? Will people want to hear what's on my mind, or am I now trapped... trapped inside my own mind with my own monologue... conversing with only myself, because really, who else cares?

My final design presentation followed, and gave me a chance to get away from myself... away from my thoughts. Krizek brought in cake.

Straight from design, I made my way to the final exhibition. This is where all the art classes present all their final projects, and a semester's worth of work. Some of my scupture pieces were in it, as was a drawing of mine, and my sketch book. It was kind of exciting! The exhibit was very impressive. It was so cool to see everything come together the way it did. All semester long, we've been working so hard to prepare something, and today was the day we finally were able to show-case all the talent we had to offer.

Towards the end of the exhibit, I fell back in thought...

By the way, my cold's doing a little better. My knee and ankle though, might be re-injured. I might have to get some x-rays when I get home. I'll tough it out til then.

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

10 Days Left...

2009-12-02T20:27:00.003-05:00

Time keeps ticking. There are only 10 days until I board a plane, and arrive back home in the wonderful US of A. It seems bittersweet. I know I'll miss it, even if I am ready to go home.

Today was my last class with Cristiano. I'll definitely miss him... silly man. lol

On the way home, I decided it's time I make my famous chicken soup. That will make me feel better! It's got to... I need to be healthy for my last week in Roma! Can you all say MAJOR FAIL?! My best recipe turned into sheer stupidity. After two hours, the soup was ready. I had a spoon... delicious. It was just what the doctor ordered... warm, homeade chicken soup. The big fopa came in when I added noodles... little, tiny noodles... little, tiny noodles that I wasn't expecting to double in size... little, tiny noodles that sucked up all my soup, and left me with a bowl of pasta. Yes folks... I was left with yet another bowl of pasta. Fantastico! Perfeto! It just figures I would do something like this. lol

Tomorrow's Thursday, December 3rd... Wish me luck!

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

So much to do, and still so sick...

2009-12-01T18:36:00.004-05:00

It's interesting how Roberto decides what he likes. The project I spent a good 9 hours OUTSIDE of class working on gets a B- and does not make it into the show. The project I created today... that took about 9 minutes gets requested. "Where's your concrete project? I want it in the show." Whatever you say Roberto. If only I had known... I would've spent 10 minutes on all my projects. Who knows maybe my grade will benefit as well? :)

In Italian, we discovered Christiano is a radio disc jockey for RAI, and was also in a movie. Our professore is a celebrity! How cool is that?! We've also decided to start our own little fan club... probably on facebook. haha

In Design, we prepped for our final next week, and discussed our class presentations that will be due on Thursday. It seems like it just might be do-able.

When I came home, I wasted a shit-ton of time. Then, I worked on my Valentino presentation for Design. In between I made dinner. Small, rice like pasta in a four cheese sauce, green beans, peppers, and tuna... not too shabby. :)

Time for some rest... Hopefully, I'll feel better in the morning. I've got to get in some quality time with my gelatto before I leave Italy! None til I get better though... :(

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Everyone is sick and I felt left out, so blah...

2009-11-30T17:09:00.002-05:00

My cold is official. I guess hearing about everyone back home being sick, made me feel left out, so I got sick too. Now, I'm just as miserable as everyone else... except I'm over here... and you're all over there.

I slept as late as possible this morning, and then went to Italian. I actually got a lot done. I figured if I was already out and bothered, I would get some errands done. I picked up paper for my art final, bubble wrap for gifts, and money. I still need to get a metro pass for tomorrow.

I also realized I forgot someone on my Thanksgiving blog, and so I now must say that I am super thankful for my sister, Blanche. She is one of a kind. She really is the best sister anyone could ask for. She spoils me rotten, then yells at me. It's love. Love you Blance. I'm very thankful I have a sister like you.

That's all folks. This week is murder. Everything's due Thursday!
Drawing Final, Sktechbook, and Critique.
Three Sculpture Projects.
Italian Final.
Design Final Presentation.
Ugh... And it's not even final's week.... :/

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Thanksgiving Weekend in Paris

2009-11-29T15:55:00.003-05:00

Thursday morning, bright and early, we woke up and made our way to the airport. After a short flight, less than 2 hours, we were in Pari. <3

From the airport, we decided to take the bus to the city, and from there the metro to our hostel. The metro system in Paris is beyond extensive. There had to of been at least 20 subway lines. You could take it just about anywhere. And so, we bought a three day pass, got our bearings, and made our way to the hostel.

Our hostel was called, "Oops!" That's what it was, one big oops. lol... Though rated top 10 in the world, bu who knows who, and listed as a design hostel... for its green neon walls, and tacky wall paper... it was far from the nicest accomodations. There were 5 of us, and we were suppose to be staying in a 6 person room. Instead, they put us in a moldy smelling 4 person room and threw a mattress that barely fit between 2 bunk beds. Seeing as how bunk beds and I dont mesh well, I took the mattress in-between.

From there, we made our way to the Louvre Museum. It was spectacular. The size was overwhelming, and even after spending 6 hours there, we still did not get to see it all. The french paintings were my favorite. :)

Later that evening, Amber went to have dinner with her family, and Brittney and Libby were invited along. Danesha and I went to do some night time photography. On our way, I bought a pink bourette. Not only was it so cute, it also kept me warm in the extra cold weather. We got to see Notre Dame, and then we went back to the Louvre. After all the subway stops, I had finally figured out the infamous french girl diet. It's their subway! The stairs were killing my already injured ankle and knee. From there we went to what I've been waiting for... Moulin Rouge! Though a little disappointed, because it was not quite what I had expected, it was still pretty fantastic... especially all lit up at night.

Then, Danesha and I shared Thanksgiving dinner... at a fast food place... fish filet, french fries, and a sprite... lovely. :/

Next stop, the Triumpful Arch. It was glorious. I wasn't expecting it to be quite so big! Then, we made our way to the Eiffel Tower, and caught the light show. Who knew? It sings, and dances, and changes color! I fell in love. <3

Friday morning we woke up bright and early. We ran into Nina at our hostel, and she joined us for the morning. She's such a nice girl. Our first stop was Notre Dame. It was really unique... definitely not just another church. Then, back to the Metro. You know, there's nothing like being on the metro in Paris, listening to a seedy Spanish guy singing in hebrew Hava Negilah! Oopa! lol

Moulin Rouge was our next stop. I even had a chance to stop in the store and purchase a little somethin somethin for myself. My life might just be complete... ok... not completely... but it was pretty exciting! Through the streets of Montemarte, we made our way to Socre Coure, another breathtakingly beautiful church with a view of Paris that would make anyone weak in the knees. A top the hill, musicians filled the streets. This is the Montmarte I had imagined. A guitar player and saxaphonist played my favorite jazz classic, Summertime. I would've sat and listened to them for hours.

Next stop... Eiffel Tower from the Trocadera. It was just as glorious during the day. The sheer size of it is beyond anything I had in mind. After walking with the girls to get a baguette, I had decided to split up from the group. I decided to go for a nice sit down lunch... escargoe, duck, apple tart, and a couple glasses of the best chardonay I have ever had.

After lunch, I had decided to take a boat tour of Paris. It was sooo nice. Then, I made my way up to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Wow, was it high up! You could see the entire city! It was incredible. Paris lit up at night was definitely a sight to behold. On my way down to the second level, I ran into Evan, Ryan, and Christina. Nothing like running into people you know in a foreign city. lol

After hanging out a bit, I made my way down to watch the light show one more time. :)

On my way home, I grabbed a crepe. It was sooo good! I got ham, cheese, and tomatoes... yum yum yum! On the subway ride home, a street musician was singing my favorite, "Killing Me Softly." It was just what I needed to hear. I really did love the french. They're artistic, musically talented, fashionable, and polite. I don't know why everyone says the french are rude. I thought they were far more enjoyable than the Italian. ;)

Saturday morning the girls decided they wanted a shopping day, so I decided to make my way to Versailles. It was raining, cold, wet, and miserable, but it was well worth the trip. As I lept onto the train that I was hoping was the one that goes to Versaille, I was hoping I wouldn't break my poor knee and ankle, which were really struggling in Pari.

When I arrived, I got myself a baguette with tuna, eggs, and tomatoes, and then made my way to the Palace, also known as the Chateau de Versailles. It was magnificant. It's nice to be rich, and have your own private artists, and palace, and everything! From the Chateau, I made my way into the beautiful gardens. Due to the weather, I ended up taking a mini train ride through the property. Then, I went to Marie Antoinette's house, and Petit Trianon. The Kind gave Petit Trinon to Marie as a gift. It's nice to be queen... until your beheaded. Then, it sucks. lol

From there, I made my way to the Grand Trianon Palace, and finally the Grand Canal. The property was gorgeous. I can't even imaine what it'd be like living there.

On the way back to Pari a little 4 year old tried to pick-pocket me. I caught his hand almost in my pocket. When he realized I had caught him, he simply stuck out his hand and asked me for some money. No way! Didn't get it yourself, I'm not giving you any! It's incredible how young they start them off!

After a short nap, I made my way to dinner. Foie Graie, Steak, Baked Potato, Rice, Wild Mushrooms, Carrots, and Creme Brulee. Oo la la! A delicious end to a lovely weekend!

When I woke up Sunday morning, I woke up with a soar throat, and a very obvious, where did this come from cold. I was/am miserable. We missed our bus to the airport, and had to catch a cab.

When I got back to Rome, I did a little grocery shopping, and then from 1-8pm, I was in bed... to miserable to do anything. This week is going to be torture. "Death to Dec. 3rd." That's when everything seems to be due. Hopefully, I'll survive.

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

A Thanksgiving Eve Special Edition!!!

2009-11-25T16:52:00.004-05:00

Since in a few short hours I will leaving for the airport, I have decided to dedicate tonight's blog to one of my favorite American holidays... Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!!

Everyday we take things for granted. Here in Rome, I have become quite aware of all the conveniences we have at home, and now I will be forever grateful. What I miss and am grateful for most though, is my family and friends. At a time when I am away from my loved ones, I have realized how lucky I am to have them in my life. I'd like to give a few special shout-outz at this point.

Mama and Papa - Thank you so much for everything. I am the luckiest child in the world to have parents like you. You are the coolest, smartest, kindest, funest, most understanding parents in the world. (And now you have it in writing!) Thank you so much for always supporting me, encouraging me, and challenging me to become the person I am today. Thank you also for helping me to make this trip possible. I will be forever grateful. With all it's ups and downs, it has been an experience of a lifetime. I love you. <3

Arturchek - First and foremost, you will always be my #1. I am sooo lucky to have a friend like you. I don't know what I'd do without you. Thanks for always being there for me. <3

Leslie - My shluba! I can't wait to see you! We're in desperate need of a drive! You are the best girlfriend any girl can ask for. Thanks lovey. <3

Lena - The shoutout that's waaaaayyy over due... that's why I'm not grouping you with any other individuals. ;) lol... For realz though, you have become like an older sister to me. You look out for me, and watch my back like no one else. I really appreciate you taking me under your wing. I mean really, look how stylish I've become. lol You'll be real proud when I get back. Thank you.

Diana and Luba - I had to give Lena her own, but you two have also become like big sisters to me. All three of you have taken such good care of me, and I love you all for it. Diana, from the begining I have been able to tell you things I tell no one else. We really connected over those Margaritas. lol... and Luba... swings, beach trips, tokai.. so much fun, I can't wait for more... and big shout out to POSHREVIEW.COM!!!! I'm so proud of your event!

Arkady and Yuriy - Haha deal with it. I'm grouping you boys together because I love you equally! Gossip, giggles, late night drives to china town, and ricing. haha... You guys are the best!

Maryanna and Aline - My two lil sistas. You two are the sweetest, most beautiful girls... inside and out that I have ever met. I hope you know how thankful I am to have each of you in my life.

Connie - My big bro. haha... Thanks for keeping dad busy while I've been gone. ;)

Larry T and Drew - Otherwise known as LD. You boys will always be very special to me. This past year has been a total roller coaster. Thanks for always looking out for me, taking care of me, and of coarse all the good times we've had. G-d knows we've had a lot. lol

Jack - Didn't think I'd forget, did you? Thanks for all the talks, words of advise, and just keeping me from being silly... even if you're a silly jack rabbit. lol I really appreciate it.

Alina and Syvan - Through thick and thin. Thank you.

Marina, and the whole Teplitsky/Furman Clan - Love you

Roma - You have captured a peice of my heart. <3

Love you all very much. I am very thankful for having you in my life.

Hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving. Remember not to take things for granted, and say thank you for what you are thankful. Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Take 3 = Big Success! I Will Survive!

2009-11-24T21:13:00.002-05:00

Today sucked. Sculpture, Italian, Design, and then home. Lots of BS!

We move past the day and evening though. Tonight, around 10pm, Danielle called and insisted I go to Karaoke night with them. Being a big fan of the stage, I decided I'd give going out in Rome one last shot. And so, around 11pm, a bus crowded with American's headed to an Irish Pub called Scholar's, near Piazza Venezia.

The place was packed! Student from multiple study abroad programs were all there. You couldn't move, and it was just possible to breathe. Somehow, I made it to the stage, signed up, and waited my turn.

After an extremely long wait, it was finally my turn. After hearing song after song of more or less modern stuff, I decided to bring back a classic. "I Will Survive!" I rocked the house, and had every last drunk in the house dancing and singing. haha... Who wouldn't?

On my way out, I even got a couple compliments. "Oh, you're the girl who sang really well." Another girl, who happened to be black, says, "You sang my song! I was going to sing that!" Just as I was about to appologize, she continues, "Don't appologize white girl. You did us proud." haha

Outside a man on a motercycle stopped to hit on me.

Him - Di dove sei?
Me - Sono Americana.
Him - Dove?
Me - Philadelphia.
Him - Ah... Do you have a boyfriend?
Me - No...
Him - Great. Can I get your number?
Me - No, but thank you for the compliment... at which point, he drives off. haha

So although Tuesday sucked majorly for reasons to be quickly forgotten. Once the clock struck midnight, Wednesday certainly started off with a bang!

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

The Start of a Crazy Few Days...

2009-11-23T18:14:00.002-05:00

Though I only had Italian today, the day was beyond stressful with school work. I came home around 4pm, and was working on my paper practically non stop til around midnight. It's done though! Yay for me!

I have so much to do, and sooo little time. I'm going to need all the luck I can get.

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Roma vs Bari

2009-11-23T05:46:00.002-05:00

Our internet crashed on us last night, so I had to save yesterday's blog in a word document temporarily. Tonight, there will be another. Here it goes.

Yesterday was the big match… ok, not so big… but it was the day Temple was going to the soccer game. After some convincing and the fact that Temple organized a group, I decided to suck it up, and see what all the fuss was about.

A Roma soccer game is said to be a, “real experience.” After attending, I have to say… it definitely was. Roma fans are intense! Though we did not sit in the same section as the fanatics in Curva Sud, we did sit right next to them. We, though, were protected by 3-4 inches of bullet proof glass. :)

Throughout the whole game, fans not only cheered for the home team and boo-ed the opposing team, they also sang! They sang throughout the WHOLE game. It was the most organized chaos I have ever seen. It seemed as though every member of the audience knew every single word of every single cheer, and every single song. No one missed a beat. Smoke filled the stadium from both flares and cigarettes. The whole place also wreaked of beer. Fans screamed, and jumped, and sang their little hearts out. The Curva Sud section even stood… the entire game. My Roma, of course, won the game. <3

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella…

Up and About...

2009-11-21T20:25:00.003-05:00

Though still in pain, I decided to suffer through it and proceed with my plans for today. Daniella and I met at around 9:45am this morning. We initally wanted to hit up the surrealism exhibit I thought I saw advertisments for, but I confused something, so we continued with our day.

We took a stroll through the Jewish Ghetto, where I was pin poined. "Tu Jewish," the old woman said to me. "Si," I replied. I've traveled all over, and usually nobody knows where I am from. Here, I was identified. Since our lunch place wasn't opened yet, we proceeded through the streets of Rome in the direction of Campo di Fiori to window shop and such.

By 12:30pm, we went to eat at Sora Margherita. I had been there with Blanche and it was delicious. This time was just as delicious! We split an order of fried artichokes. We each got fettecini with tomato and basil as our first coarse. For our second coarse, Danielle got the lamb, and I got the liver. Both were very good. We also split some red house wine.

From there, we walked past Piazza Venezia and the Capitoline Museum, down the Corso towards the Museum of Fantasy. I had been waiting to go since I got to Rome, and today was finally the day! They were doing an exhibit of Nikki Phale's work. She's known for her volumptuous women, and her bright colors. It was a lot of fun. We both really enjoyed it!

Afterwards, we walked past the Pantheon to De Palma, otherwise known as my gelato mecca. Black Passion and Passionfruit awaited me. We sat down in Piazza Navuona to enjoy the treat, and then made our way back to the residence.

After a quick four hour nap, I woke up and made myself something to eat. lol

After some quality facebook time, I sat down to watch Cinema Paradiso... one of my top 10 favorite movies of all time. Though it's an Italian film with English subtitles, it almost doesn't seem like it. It's that good. Though usually known for crying about hopeless love, as I sat and watched the movie, I found myself crying again and again about Alfredo's death. It wasn't Alfredo I was thinking about though. It was my grandfather... I really miss him... It's times like these when I wish I had my friends and family around. I know my grandfather is looking over me though. I hope he's being taken good care of... finally resting, chillen... He worked very hard his whole life. He deserves to relax, more than anyone. He was a good man... no a great man. It probably hasn't even fully hit me yet. How can it? I'm in Rome. I wouldn't have been seeing him now anyway, but I'm going to come home soon. He's not going to be there...

I guess I should just go to bed. I have a big day tomorrow...

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Determined to Recover ASAP!

2009-11-20T19:16:00.004-05:00

Though I didn't wake up very late, I was in bed most of the day resting my injuries from the previous night. By 4pm, I decided it was time to get up. I spent some time on youtube and facebook, and then made myself dinner. I made the best mac n cheese EVER. Alright... I suppose it was a little fancy to be called mac n cheese. I sauteed some vegetables... zucchini, onions, red peppers, green beans, and broccoli, and then through it in with this tiny grained pasta and added some swiss cheese. It was soooo yummy. :)

Around 8-9pm, I went over to Danielle and Molly's to watch some tv. They were watching the end of Cinema Paradiso... one of my all time favorite movies... definitely top 5. They let me borrow it so I can watch it tomorrow. Then, we watched Top Gear til like 12:30am. lol

Tomorrow, Daniella and I have a date. Hopefully, my injuries will cooperate.

Though I'm still in a lot of pain, I'm definitely doing better than last night and even this morning and afternoon. I'm determined to recover asap! I don't have time to sit on my cute, little... ok... big and beautiful bum. Wish me luck!

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

That's just my luck...

2009-11-19T19:05:00.002-05:00

The day started out rather nicely. I met my drawing class at the Pantheon, and we proceeded to Chiesa di Santa Maria Maddelena to sketch. From there, we went back to the Pantheon, both inside and out. After a quick stop at the art supply store, we continued on to our final location, which was Piazza Colona.

From there, I went to my deli, and then to take my Italian test.

For Italian Design, we went to the Richard Meir building, also known as the Ara Pacia.

I came home, I took a nap, and then I made dinner. I think I finally came up with a great dish, from this week's ingredients. I made a pasta dish, with tiny grain pasta. Inside I mixed chicken, broccoli, zucchini, onions, and tomatoes. It was sooo good! I had made to much for myself though, and so decided to give Danielle a call to see if she would be interested... She was, and she came over instantly.

Afterwards, Danielle invited me to come out for some drinks, and though usually in Rome, I'm quite the party pooper... I decided to go out! I got dressed, put on some make-up and met Danielle and Molly downstairs around 10:30pm.

It was too good to last. Before making it to the bus stop, I slipped in some dog shit and seriously injured myself. I still don't know how serious my injuries are. At first, I couldn't get up at all. Once I did, I realized my left ankle and my right knee were in excrutiating pain. Though I decided to fight through it, this might not have been the best of ideas.

As I hobbled the rest of the way to the bus stop like a certified cripple, I couldn't help but laugh. It figures that I finally go out, and I get injured...

When we got to the bus stop, I sat down to check if I was at least somewhat in tact. The girls offered to walk me home, but I insisted that I wanted to go and get at least one drink. Vodka cures everything, right?

Getting off the bus was a struggle, and the cobble stone streets of Rome were even worse. Each step felt like pure torture. I don't think I've ever been so happy to see Campo di Fiori or an American Bar in Rome ever in my life. I just wanted to sit down.

Not even half a drink in, I couldn't take it anymore, and I jumped in a cab and went home.

That's just my luck...
So much for my day trip tomorrow. Maybe another day...

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

XXX: Sketching a Brazilian Male Model... in the Nude!!!

2009-11-18T18:58:00.003-05:00

With a title like that, I'm sure no one is interested in the rest of my day, so I'll just get straight to the juicy stuff. :)

Today, from 7:30-10pm, my drawing class met at a special time to sketch a live model... a Brazilian Male Model, to be specific... in the Nude. Yes, ladies and gentlemen... NUDE!

Now obviously, when I heard about this adventure a week ago, I didn't know what to think. Meanwhile, I think I've been blushing about it for a week. I've seen tons of art work of naked men and women. I've seen naked men and women in person. Still, the thought of sitting in front of one for almost three hours made me giggle like a little school girl.

Luckily, I was not the only one. Myself and my classmates met just before class in the lobby. Most of us were hesitant to go downstairs to the drawing studio. Oy...

Before finally getting up the courage to make our way down, some of us stocked up on water, snacks, and others beer and wine. lol... As we entered the room, the girl in front of me shrieked, turned around, and walked out. Oh no... "Is he already naked?" I asked. "No, he's just kinda scary looking. lol" As I took a deep breathe and walked in, I fell out of shock. He was our age, dressed, and not so scary looking... not bad looking actually.

We found our seats, set up, and listened for directions from our professor. We were to do quick sketches. Every 2-5 minutes, he would change poses, and we were suppose to focus on the exaggeration of movement, rather than detail.

Out of nowhere appeared Matteo... in the nude... Oh boy.. here comes my blush again. I bit my lip to stop the giggle from slipping out. First pose, homo erectus gave me a full frontal view. I glanced over at other classmates. They were clearly conflicted as well. As I tried to keep my lip from quivering, I began to sketch, trying to ignore his man parts completely.

One position and then the next, slowly, but surely, I began to adapt. I was very into my work. Anita, our professor walked around to see how we were doing. When she got to me, she first asked me if I had ever drawn a figure before. I responded with a simple no. I mean, I had never drawn a male or a female model... and definitely not in the nude... not even from a picture. "You're proportions are very good. You know the male body very well." hahahaha... Babylon strikes again! Apparently, I know the male body very well. lol... Won't Mommy and Daddy be proud? lol

Speaking of mom and dad... As he switched into his next pose, which was a spread-eagle in my direction, daddy called. "Sorry, dad... I'm a bit busy right now." Nothing like having a penis in your face when daddy calls. lol

After this pose, the model needed a break. This was about an hour in. We needed a break as well...

After the break, I was adjusted. This time, we spent the next hour sketching Matteo in the same pose. I had no problem starring him down at this point. I had gotten quite comfortable. At first, I was behind him. Although I did enjoy his cute little tushy, I decided the frontal view would be more interesting to draw, and so I moved my seat... front row center. :)

By the end of class, I had wanted to sketch more... Oh well...

When I spoke to mom and dad, they thoroughly enjoyed laughing at me. lol

There's always a new experience to be had. You have to make the most out of each and every one.

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Conflicting Emotions... A Dream Inside a Nightmare Inside Another Dream...

2009-11-17T18:41:00.003-05:00

It's interesting to note that this is the first week that I am having conflicting emotions about going home. All semester long, I wanted to go home. This week, a new sensation has come upon me. I think I have finally begun to adjust to life over here. Now, before I know it, I'll be home. It's strange. I still miss my family and my friends, but I am more content that I was previously.

I was looking at pictures last night from the beginning of the semester. I have seen soooo much over here. I had an experience of a lifetime. This roller coaster of a semester was filled with its ups and downs, and often times felt like a dream... or a nightmare... or a dream inside a nightmare, inside another dream. It is unreal... surreal actually. I wonder what it will be like being home...

Today, class occupied most of my day. In sculpture, I've decided to give in to Roberto's directions, and forget about my own pleasure and creativity. It's time I focus on what he wants. It's about the grade now, not the art. After all, art is subjective, and he is the one who needs to like it... not me.

Italian was amusing as always, and I made it through design without falling asleep... generally a successful day. :)

When I came home, I had the loveliest of naps, and then I made myself dinner. Sauteed zucchini, red peppers, onions, broccoli, tomatoes, and chicken... Pretty delicious! I wanted to put it over a bed of rice, but I had none. The supermarket was closed by that time.

Tomorrow should be a rather exciting day. Stay tuned... lol

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

The Typical Monday

2009-11-16T17:59:00.003-05:00

Today, I slept in. It was wonderful. =)

At 12pm, I woke up.
At 1pm, I went to my deli.
At 2pm, I went to Italian class.
At 3pm, I went to the grocery store.
At 6pm, I ate dinner.

In between I sketched for class, and wasted time on facebook.

It's 12am, and I'm going to bed. haha

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella... ;)

Roxanne... You don't have to put on that RED light.

2009-11-15T20:09:00.003-05:00

There's a first time for everything. Every time I go away, I'm ready to come back to Roma. I love Roma. There's no city as great as Roma, right? WRONG! I have a new love... not in place of my Roma, but rather, in addition to my Roma. Ladies and Gentlemen, please give a warm welcome, and a big round of applause for... AMSTERDAM!

Ok, ok, now... before I get ahead of myself, I should start from the beginning. :)

Weeks and weeks ago, Rebecca and I had decided that we ought to take a trip together. As our schedules and trips were not matching up, we were left with one choice, Amsterdam. What 20 year old studying abroad doesn't want to make a stop there? To add more bliss to the equation, Rebecca has family there that we were able to stay with.

Early friday morning, I made my way to the airport, and a short nap later, I was there! Rebecca, Veta, and Bert picked me up from the airport, fully stocked with sandwiches. It was great! lol Though the weather was a bit miserable, we decided to continue on with the original plans of seeing Holland.

Our first stop was the small little village of Edam. It was very cozy, and it had a very old school like charm to it. Bert gave us a very thorough tour. I was quite impressed with all his historical knowledge. We showed us the oldest building in Edam, and city hall, the leaning tower, the cathedral, and even pointed out the menorah trees. We even got to see an art exhibit. It was very nice.

From there, we were off to see how cheese is made. Holland is very big on cheese, and so are me and Rebecca. This was a match made in heaven. There's nothing like free samples of cheese! They also had these cookies that Holland is known for. They were delicious!

Once we could eat no more, we walked over to where they make clogs. Rebecca bought some for Asher! They're sooo cute! I bought myself a wooden tulip. Hollan is known for its tulips, and its wooden crafts. This seemed like the perfect souvenier.

Next, we ventured to the town of Voledam, which is on the coast. It's a bit of a beach town. While there, we found a shop where you can dress up as dutch women. Obviously, we couldn't resist. Plus, Bert told us that these get-ups would make us irrestible to all the charming dutch men, such as himself. haha... While we waited for our pictures to develop, we walked around, took pictures with random statues, and had lunch. It was really lovely.

After lunch, we made our way to a Castle. It was called Het Muiderslot. Though the castle was closed, we still had a chance to walk around the grounds and the gardens. Veta, Bert, and I began to sample the many fruits and vegetables growing there. It was quite a sight to see. We were all laughing. There was a fruits and vegetable garden on one side, and an herb garden on the other. Though most of the herbs were sage and rosemary, we did find the herb that absinthe is made out of. It had a very interesting smell to it... kind of minty. lol We also saw the Theaterbastion, which is their outdoors amphitheater area. It doesn't quite compare to Rome's Colosseum though. ;)

At this point, it was time for a nap, and so... we made our way to Veta and Bert's house. When we got there, their younger son David greeted us. David's 12. He speaks 5 languages, and is quite the little gentleman. I'm kind of in love... if only he was older... <3

After a short nap and a shower, it was time for dinner. Their older son Pavlik, and his girlfriend Meike were waiting for us at the restaurant. We ate at a Japanese/Korean restaurant. Obviously after two and a half months of Italian, Rebecca and I were quite excited for the Asian treat. It was pretty delicious. We share a bunch of appetizers, and then each had an entree. I had the tempura udon. Yumm...

Following dinner, we hopped in Pavlik's car and all made our way to his and Meike's apartment. It was just outside of Amsterdam in a very up and coming neighborhood. They have a lot of space, and it's decorated in a very modern and trendy fashion. I really liked it! We had some tea... Veta, Bert, and David left... and we were off to explore the city!

Pavlik, Meike, and their friend Tan gave us a tour of the city. First stop? Red light district. :)

Sex, drugs, and rock n' roll. Oh my! It was wonderful. Everything was just out in the open. There was nothing to hide, and no reason to hide. Women seduced men through their windows with their attire, gestures, and come hither stares. The red lights set the tone for people to give into their desires, and dare to do what they maybe would not normally do. Sex shops lined the streets. Erotic Museums and Marijuana Museums/Stores followed one after the other. Coffee shops were on every corner. We checked out the Green Place. Totally groovey. haha

The next morning/afternoon, we made our way to the Van Gough Museum. The line was down the street, though it moved rather quickly. Once inside, we had four floors to conquer. Slowly, but surely, we made our way through each floor. As you move through the exhibit, the art follows the time-line of Van Gough's life. It was interesting to see how his art changed as he went through different personal experiences throughout his life. I also thought it was interesting that he was completely self-taught. I guess practice and hard work really is the key.

When we got out, we decided to take a canal tour. On the way there, we saw the famous Rijks Museum, and the I AMSTERDAM sign. Once in the boat, the canal cruise took us through all of Amsterdam. You really do get a different view from there. It was really cool. As we floated through the canal, we got to see various homes, churches, and other points of interest. I've decided if I become rich one day, I'm buying a second house in Amsterdam... a boat house... near the red light district... and opening a sex shop. What do you all think? haha

After the Canal tour, we walked over to the Anne Frank house. Again, the line was longer, but it went by rather quickly. Once in the museum, we took our time reading the quotes, and the time-line set up. It was a very moving and inspiring experience. At the end of the exhibit, there is a virtual monument to Anne Frank. They ask you to leave your "leaf" on the tree to show that you have been inspired, and will try to live by the ideals Anne Frank lived by.

Pavlik picked us up after the museum, and we went to a Turkish restaurant to pick up food to bring home. After dinner, it was time for the pre-party. We got dressed, and made our way to one of Pavlik and Meike's friend's apartment. The party had already started when we arrived, but since it was a pre-party, we were just on time. Caperinja's and Mohito's all around. They were soooo good. The guy who lived there is a bartender, and a really good one at that.

From there, everyone slowly made their way to the main attraction... the 10th Year Anniversary Party for one of the hippest clubs in Amsterdam. It's called Paradiso. It's an old church that was transformed into a club, so it's very big! It had three floors to party on. It was insane. It was this crazyyy rave with a million people and deep/progressive house music... lots of cool lights too. haha... The pictures speak for themselves. We were there til 5am.

The next morning/afternoon, we woke up and had the most delicious breakfast. Meike made apple/banana pancakes. Yum, yum, yum! Then, we made our way back to the city to do some walking around and shopping. I bought a shirt that said, "Good girls go to heaven. Bad girls go to Amsterdam." haha...We ended our day at the main square, where the palace is located.

Then, it was off to the airport... If only I could stay just a few more days... <3

Oh well, it's back to class tomorrow...

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Another Dawn, Another Day in Roma...

2009-11-12T18:56:00.002-05:00

I woke up... literally at dawn to meet my drawing class down at the Capitolini Museum. Though I had already been there with Blanche, I'm not one to pass up a free ticket. Oh yeah... it was also a class requirement. ;)

Of coarse, once we got there, we were told we were not aloud to sketch. It had to do with some copyright issues. We WERE allowed to take pictures though. I know what you're thinking. It makes no sense. It made no sense to us either, but to the Italians, black is white. lol

It was interesting going in the museum with someone who knows the art, and could explain us the stories behind it. Though I enjoyed it the first time, I enjoyed it just as much this time. I got to see it in a different light. We saw the Medusa, the Romulus and Remus statue, the big foot and hand, the horseman... lol... Clearly, I picked up a ton! We saw some Caravaggio paintings, as well as the whole painting gallery, and sculpture gallery. It was nice.

After drawing, I made my way back towards school with everyone. Obviously, I stopped at my deli for lunch. ;)

When I got to school, I signed up for the soccer game on the 22nd. Yep, you heard right! I think I'm staying home next weekend. I need a weekend off from traveling. I'm exhausted! I might sneak in a day trip to Florence though. haha... You know me. I can't sit still. To much to do, and see!

After Italian, I had Design. Luca Laurenti came to speak with us. He's a graphic artist, who goes by the name Mklane. He's very talented, and very busy. He designs t-shirts, works with magazines, celebrities, music, politics... and he's only 25! He's very clearly quite successful, and really has a passion for what he does.

When I got home around 5pm, the original plan was to sleep til midnight. What really happened was a bit different. First, I made dinner...

Menu:
Fettucini with a red sauce made of sauteed tomatoes and onions, with grilled chicken. Yum!

Then, I went on facebook and random other sites...

Around 10pm-ish, Amber, Brittney, Danesha, and I went to Old Bridge to get some gelato. Chocolate and Strawberry. Yum! Yum! Yum!

When I got home, I went back online... and then packed...

It's 1am now. I have to leave for the airport around 3-3:30am. By the time I shower and get dressed, it will be that time. So much for sleep! Oh well...

Arrivaderci Ragazzi! I'll tell you all about it when I return. ;)

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

A Lovely Evening in Roma

2009-11-11T17:24:00.004-05:00

So... I didn't make it to the art museum that I had planned to go to this morning. I ended up sleeping in. Still, I needed the sleep. So, instead of beating myself up about it... I'm just going to try and go next week. :)

After my one class today, which was Italian, I met up with Zach Green. I know Zach from Chabad back at Temple Main. He's studying in Paris, and told me he was going to be in Rome. And so, we met up and I showed him around. We had the loveliest of evenings.

We met up at Piazza del Popolo. We were both pretty hungry, so I took him to my favorite deli for a panini. Afterwards, we made our way down Via del Corso towards Piazza Venezia. It closed just as we got there, so we didn't have a chance to go to the top. Still, it is still a pretty glorious site to behold.

From there, we made went to Piazza di Ignazio. That's where the church with the false dome is. Then, we went to the Pantheon and San Luigi de Francesi, which holds a Cravaggio painting. Then, we made our way to what Zach called the Mecca of Gelato. I took him to De Palma. They have 100 flavors... including my two favorite; black passion and passion fruit. I know. I know. I have an obsession. The first step though is admitting you have a problem. The second is telling you all to deal with it. haha

From there, we continued on to Piazza Navuona. After walking around and looking at the art being displayed by the many vendors, we decided to just chill there a bit and listen to the street musicians. It was nice. Rome is so magical at night. Mi amo Roma. :)

Our next stop was the Spanish Steps. I took him through Via Condotti, passed the oldest cafe in Roma. Once we got there, we got to see an exhibit going on. This week marks 20 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. In honor of this, Rome had an art exhibit, documentary, and pho Berlin Wall up by the Spanish Steps. It was very cool.

At this point, we were very hungry so we headed down to Piazza Barberini for dinner. I had oysters as an appetizer, and then fettucini with porcini mushrooms for my meal. Zach also had pasta, but with bolognase sauce. We also split some wine. It was pretty delicious. :)

After dinner, we went for a stroll through the Villa Borghese Park, and I showed him some really nice views of the city. Then, we made our way back to Piazza del Popolo where we went our separate ways.

It was a really lovely evening. I sometimes forget how wonderful Rome is until I experience it again. Then, I fall in love all over again. Mi amo Roma. Roma e magnifico! Roma e bellissimo! Roma e perfeto!

Amber's bringing me back some Mafia goods to end this fantastic night. :)

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Back to the swing of things...

2009-11-10T19:32:00.003-05:00

I woke up this morning tired, but ready to start my day. The first half of sculpture was a bit of a struggle. Roberto was doing various different demonstrations, and I was trying to stay awake. :)

Once I began my project, it just seemed to flow. We have to create a book. Yep, that's the project. We can use any material, and the project is very vague. As of right now, I'm compiling various different objects and making a book I'm gonna call, Made in Italy. I'm kind of liking it. :)

After sculpture, I went to take my Italian test, printed my paper, and then went back for Italian class. It was kind of cool to see everyone formulating full on conversations. It's amazing how far we've all come!

My last class was design. I've decided to give it another go, and try to get into it more... if only for the end of the semester. We got our midterm paper back today. I got an A! I was so excited! Finally, grades I'm used to! Nothing like a paper to put me back into the swing of things. :)

When I got home, I did the dishes and made some dinner. Fettucini Alfredo with grilled chicken with a side of marinated artichokes. Dee-liscious!

Then, I took a 3 hour nap. It was wonderful. It was JUST what I needed. :)

When I woke up, it was already 10pm, so I went on facebook to waste some time, and did some homework.

I'm going to try to go to this one art gallery tomorrow before class. It's called the Museum of Fantasy, or something of the sort. Every time I walked by, it looked so cool. It didn't open until November though. Hopefully, tomorrow I'll finally get to see it!

Then, I'm meeting up with Zach, a friend from Temple back home. He's studying in Paris, and is currently in Rome. We're meeting up after class. I'll probably take him for some gelato. haha

Shout out to the Silly Jack Rabbit! Remember kids, tricks are for kids. haha

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

A Visit to Larry O... In London

2009-11-09T16:50:00.003-05:00

Friday morning, I made my way to Ciampino airport in Roma and took a 3hr flight to London's Stanstead Airport. I jumped on an easybus, and met Larry O at Baker Street. From there, we took a double-decker bus to Larry's place near the famous King's Cross Station.

After dropping off my things, we took the tube to Picadilly Circus... or as I renamed it... ever-so lovingly... Pick-a-dildo Circus. :)

From there, we went to China Town. Yes... London, unlike Roma, has a Chine Town. Two Points London! As I enjoyed the comfort of a Chinese buffet, I was surprised that I was eating American Chinese food, rather than actual Chinese food.

After lunch, Larry gave me a walking tour of some of London's famous sites. We saw Leicester Square, Trafalfer Square, Big Ben, Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Cathedral, and even Larry's old flat near Queen Victoria. Then we made a quick stop at Starbucks. Mmm... Starbucks. Two more points for London. :)

Once back at Larry's, we watched the greatest movie EVER! CLUE! I fell in love. It was hysterical! Then, we watched some nature show about fish. Being a mud skipper sucks. I think I'd like to be a hippo instead. :)

Later that evening, we went to a bar on Lexington. After the bar, we went to THE BEST KABOB! Though this is actually the name of the restaurant, it actually was the best kabob! It was absolutely delicious! Two more points London.

We concluded the night watching the Gram Norton Show... also hysterical!

Saturday morning we woke up late, and went to have brunch at a pub in Soho. I had the traditional fish and chips, along with some Cidar. It was soooo good! Some homeless man selling the "Big Issue" asked me for money so he can buy drugs and alcohol. lol... Guess you gotta appreciate the honesty. :)

After brunch, we met up with Amanda and Robin to watch the Australia/England Rugby Game at the Sports Bar. We were cheering for Australia. Larry was cheering for England. Australia won. Haha :-P

When the game ended, Larry and I went for a stroll down Paul Maul passed St. James Park and Palace. We also saw the Clarance House where the Princes live. And finally, we saw Green Park, the Victoria Monument, and the ever-so-grand Buckingham Palace. The Queen was even home!

Before our show, we stopped in at another pub for another drink. Boy! Do they drink a lot in London! Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, In between, Before, and After!

Then, the time had come! WICKED! WICKED! WICKED! It was absolutely positively fantastical! The Wicked Witch kicked ass! She was brilliant! Her performance gave the audience chills, and brought many, if not most of us to tears. You go girl! Defy Gravity!

After the show, we stopped in for yet another drink at a pub, and a late night Kebab before bed!

Sunday we woke up late again, and had breakfast/lunch at Pret. I had this yummy duck wrap. It was pretty good. Then from the Angel station, I headed to the London Bridge. Once there, I walked passed the frightful London Bridge Experience, walked along the London Bridge itself, and saw the Tower of London, and the Tower Bridge. Then, I saw Southwark and St. Paul's Cathedrals. I walked passed the Clink Prison Museum, and then managed to get the last tour available for Shakespeare's World Famous, Globe Theater. I really enjoyed it! I even bought some pins!

On the way back to Larry's I also saw Sir Francis Drake's Golden Hinde. Now, they use it to do pirate tours, mainly for school students. Arrrg!

When I got back, we watched a bit of Dazed and Confused, and then made dinner. Larry's flat mates were all cooking around the same time, so we got to try some yummy stuff! Jane made Ox Tail Stew! It was probably one of the yummiest, homiest things I've had while abroad. I was quite impressed.

Around 1:30-2am, I headed off to the airport. My flight was at 6am, which meant I had to be at the airport by 4am... and I had to take two buses to get there. Guess I didn't think this one through very well.

I arrived in Roma around 10am Monday morning. By the time I got through passport controls, and traffic via bus, I had no time to go home. And so, I headed straight to school from Termini station.

Surprise surprise! My first stop was my favorite alimentari to get my turkey and brie sandwich. Five points for Roma! lol

Since I had to meet with Christiano early, he let me stay for the 1pm class. By 2:30pm, I was back at Cipro. I made my way to the supermarket, and then came home to do some laundry. Laundry took forever!!! I was only done around 6-6:30pm! Around 7pm, I made myself dinner.

Menu:
Pasta with 4 cheese sauce, zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, garlic, and chicken.

I was pleased. I also had some champagne. :)

London was lovely, but it's still no Roma. ;)

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Sunrise, Sunset... R.I.P.

2009-11-05T16:06:00.004-05:00

Friday morning we met our teacher at Termini to depart for Milan. A four hour train ride later, we had arrived. We headed straight for Castigloni's Design Studio.

Not even 20 minutes in, my phone had started frantically ringing. Papa was calling, and so I texted mom. "Tell dad to stop calling. I'm in class. Is everything ok?" At that moment, my heart dropped. I knew it wasn't good. "Call dad. Important." That's all I got.

I called papa only to discover that my dyedushka, my mom's dad, had died. There I stood... in this world famous design studio... hysterically crying... not knowing what to do...

"Quietly, gather your things, and fly home." Those were my orders.

I walked over to my teacher, told her the news, and began to walk out the door. I didn't know what to do. My first instinct was to go back to Rome and orient myself. I was in Milan... and my grandfather had just died. What's going on? I was at a loss of words, thoughts, everything. What do I do?

As my teacher walked me to the subway stop, my mind went blank. I was in shock. I couldn't process the information I was just told.

Eventually, we realized that I should go look up flights at the hotel before going anywhere, and so we did. I was lost, confused, and alone. As I searched through what seemed like millions of websites, half of which were in Italian, I began to panic. Luckily, Blanche called to tell me she was taking care of it. I love you Blanche. Thank you for getting me home.

Since the flight we found was for the next morning, I continued on with class. I was already missing more than half of a mandatory class trip, I didn't want to flunk. We went to the Design Continuum. That's where the Reebok Pump and the Swiffer was invented. It was very interested. It also helped to get my mind off things... if only for a minute.

After, we went to Dilmos and then for Apperitivo.

As the rest of the girls went out, I stayed in the hotel room to write something to say at the funeral. If only I were home, I thought to myself...

The next morning, I jumped in an obscenely expensive taxi, and made my way to the airport. 9-10 hours, and a million security stops later, I was home. Papa picked me up from the airport. It was so bitter-sweet. I was sooooo excited to see him. Still, I would've rather not seen anyone on these terms...

The whole way home, I was bombarded by calls and texts from concerned friends. My friends are solid gold, every single one of them. I really appreciate everything everyone has done. Thank you.

Leslie was already waiting for me at babushka's with mama, blana, and baba. Again, the bitter-sweet emotion was that much more overwhelming. Apparently, everyone is under the impression that I am half a person. I don't think so, but ok. Arthur stopped by too. Later in the evening, Leslie snuck me out to say hi to some people. Once again... this bittersweet emotion... Happy Halloween Everyone!

Sunday morning was the funeral. I was so touched by the multitude of people who came to pay their respects. The hall was packed. Friends of mine filled a row in support. Arthur, Leslie, Maryanna, Arkady, Alina, and Syvan showed up. I can't tell you how much that means to me.

My speech was praised, and by the time we got to the restaurant, many had left. Still, we had 78 people attend. My grandfather was a great man, and many people loved and respected him. He will always be in our hearts. For the first time in his life, he will finally be able to get some rest and relaxation. R.I.P

Late at night, I snuck out again. Lena called and told me to come by Larry's. Though hesitant at first, I took up her invitation and was dropped off. It was so nice to see them. My groove was still in my couch! I even dozed off a bit, til Jack got home. We chatted a bit, and then Lena took me home. Before I got inside, we had a little heart to heart in the car. Again... the bittersweet emotion... my friends are the best.

Monday was tough. All the fuss was over. It was just us. Mom, Blanche, and I sat at grandma's. I snuck out to pick up pills and say hi to Ura, and Blanche bought herself and myself some shoes. Connie stopped by also. Later that night, I stopped by Michaelangelo's to meet up with Arthur, Arkady, and Aline. Otherwise known as Triple A. haha (Sorry, I had to!) Then, we stopped by Dunkin Donuts where Lena was waiting for us. Nothing like homework and AMERICAN coffee to get your mind off things. Jack stopped by too. Oh.. F.Y.I to all the F.O.B's... make sure you look around for local celebrity girlfriends before you start talking ish. haha

Tuesday was another long day. Most of it was spent at babushka's. Around 4:30, I went downstairs to look at pictures, and all of a sudden it hit me. He's not coming back... Eventually, I made it upstairs and cried in Mama's arms like a little girl. What were we gonna do without my dyedushka? Of coarse, a little bit later TMobile shit down as well. It seemed like the world was coming to an end.

Around 6:30, mama dropped me off at Diana's and the girls took me for sushi. Diana, Luba, Lena, and I went to Mt. Fuji. It was exactly what I wanted. Once again... the bitter-sweet taste... It felt so nice to be together again. Still, I was in a fog.

After dinner, I went to say bye to mama and then straight to babushka's to relieve Blana. It was my night to sleepover. Arthur and Maryanna stopped by, and Arkady tried. Papa came by around midnight. I was beat and half asleep.

Wednesday morning I might have lost my mind. I felt dyedushka's presence. The day we were all leaving babushka for the day, he made sure to show up. I could've sworn he put his arm on my back to comfort me. It was almost creepy. Even beyond the grave, he is still taking care of us and making sure everything is done.

Papa picked me up and we went home to finish some things. He brought home famous for lunch. It was so delicious! And then, before I could blink... it was time to head back home... back home to Rome... Rome Home...

Seven hours in the sky and I was back. I came home. I finished a paper. I went to class. I failed a test. I fell asleep in class. I went on a field trip, and went back home. I'm exhausted. I'm in such a daze. It seemed almost as if I never left. Secretly, I'm still waiting to wake up from this nightmare... from this whole semester. There are too many drastic ups and downs. It can't be real. It seems surreal...

In the morning, I fly to London to see Larry O... I wanted to cancel my trip. My parents insisted I didn't. They say Grandpa wouldn't want me to. I'm suppose to go on as normal. Out of respect to my parents, I'm going. For my grandfather, I'll smile and try to go on. I miss him terribly... My heart hurts, and once again I'm all alone. It hasn't even been a week...

Today would have been my grandparents 54th Wedding Anniversary. Happy Anniversary.

Rest in Peace Dyedushka. I love you.
March 3, 1930 - October 30, 2009

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

I Can't Help Falling In Love With You... <3

2009-10-29T16:46:00.005-04:00

Last I left you all, I had just finished my paper for design, and taken a trip to the mafia bakery. My next task was to complete seven more, out of ten, sketches for my drawing class. You'll be happy to know that I did, in fact, finish them. What I didn't do is sleep! I had finished around 6:30am, and decided half an hour of sleep would probably through me off more than no sleep at all.

My drawing class met bright and early at Piazza Navuona. Piazza Navuona is one of my favorite places in Roma, and I was glad to go. Beautiful sculptures by Bernini line the piazza, as well as many artists selling their work, and even making art on-site. There are also plenty of places to sit down and have a bite to eat. Today's task would be different though. We were moving through various locations, spending about half an hour at each site. Though people are not my strong point, I figured I'd start sketching one of Bernini's muscular men. After all, practice makes perfect. Right?

It was not such a great sketch. Luckily, I had already impressed my teacher with my "over break" work. I too was quite pleased with it actually. It might even be time for a new sketchbook!

Our next stop, was Piazza Pasquino, where our teacher pointed out the talking fountain. Romans put political complaints under it... hence the name. Today, it was being restored for the first time in over 30 years!

Next stop... Chiesa di San Ivo alla Sapienza. This beautiful church catches you off guard when you walk through the plain doors and into a glorious courtyard with a view of the church. The architecture is beautiful, and very unique. Looking down at my sketches, my teacher decided I should be an architect. haha Yeah right?! I guess mom and dyedushka's engineering genes are popping through somewhere. lol

Afterwards, we stopped by St. Luidi di Francesa where we saw some original Caravaggio paintings... including the famous, Calling of St. Mathew. It was pretty neat. Then, we saw some more Caravaggio paintings at San Augustine's... of coarse with sketching in between.

I missed this! Fall break separated us from Rome, and I missed finding all these hidden treasures. Roma is magical in that way. You never know what you'll find along your stroll.

After a quick stop at the alimentari, otherwise known as my favorite deli, I went to school, printed my paper, finished my Italian homework, and went to class. I nearly fell asleep in Cristiano's class. I felt so bad, but I was so exhausted. I had no clue how I was going to get through design!

For the first time ever, a miracle occurred! Our design teacher let us out early... not just early, but really early! Class was only 40 minutes long. She briefed us for Milan and let us go! It was incredible! And so... I had time to go check out a Chinese place near my apartment. You know it's going to be good when you walk into a Chinese restaurant and it's blaring SPANISH MUSIC! lol

It was pretty bad... luckily, I don't have to go again! Plus, I discovered a whole new area just near my apartment! I plan on exploring it when I get back from the weekend! There's so much more to discover! I'm so excited! There's a whole new world just around the corner from me that I have yet to check out. :)

When I got home, Amber had told me about an art exhibit somewhere between Barberini and Piazza di Spagna. I wasn't sure at first what it was, or who it was, but I was interested. You know, it's just a typical Thursday evening in Roma going to fabulous art exhibits with fabulous people. lol

When we arrived, I realized I was even familiar with both the work and the artist. His name is Alexander Calder, and the exhibit was being held at the famous Gagosian Gallery. Calder is a sculptor known for his mobiles. This innovation made him famous in the modern art world. He was born in good old Pennsylvania, and I had previously seen his work at our very own Philadelphia Museum of Art. It was quite glamorous being around all the intellectuals and art lovers and critics alike. There were people of all ages and backgrounds. It was a very international experience.

On the way home, I got some gelato and love was back in my heart. Gelato makes everything better. I had almost forgotten where I was for a second! Hello! I'm in Roma! My Roma! And I had fallen in love with my Roma all over again...

In the morning, I leave for Milan for a class trip! Happy Halloween Everyone!

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Really? For Me? Could It Be?

2009-10-28T20:54:00.002-04:00

Today started off pretty miserable. I was woken up by obnoxiously loud construction next door! Once up, I realized I not only received my monthly gift from mother nature, but I was aching all over... no stomach ache though! Yay! Maybe my African/Venetian parasite has flown away...

With my pounding headache getting only worse, I ran out the door... with no regard as to what time it was, or wasn't.

I arrived at my deli, and for the the third day in a row ordered my sandwich dry. I could see that the lady behind the counter was almost concerned, seeing as I've been ordering the same sandwich for two months now. Still, I wasn't quite sure about how I was feeling.

When I arrived at school, I ate my sandwich and went into the computer lab. Of coarse, all the computers were taken. I figured I would sit out in the lounge til class started, until I realized what time it was. I still had an hour and a half til class started! That's new. I had nothing to do, and I had unintentionally come to school over 2 hours early! Weird...

And so... I took a trip to the cartiliera to get a small notebook for my trip this weekend. Afterwards, I decided I would be daring, and for the first time in a week, I had... a cup of coffee! lol It was delicious, and better still... I survived!

Italian class was not much different than usual. We laughed throughout class at the silly sentences we were making, and Cristiano cried about how we "used" to love him. Le persone in tutto il mondo, la giunzione porge. Cominciare un treno di amore. "People all over the world, join hands. Start a love train." I keep trying to explain to him that before we were trying to get him to like us. Now, we've realized he will hate us either way, so we've stopped trying. :P

After class, of coarse, I wasted a ton of time on the Internet. Nothing like YouTube and Facebook to distract you for as long as you like. I had also taken some Tylenol. My headache went away and I suddenly realized, maybe I wasn't feeling better. Figures... lol It's funny that this is funny to me now. Two months ago, I would be freaking out that I was dying or something silly of that nature. I remember freshman year calling Arthur about my black elbows. I checked out WebMD and of course... the first 200 options are Cancer and/or other fatal diseases of the sort. I was convinced I was dying! My elbows were black! He insisted I use lotion 3x a day for 3 days and then call him. He said I have dry elbows, just like him. Apparently my bfffffer knows me better than I know me. Always and Forever! He was right! I wasn't dying, and now I laugh every time I think about that story. And now... almost 3 years later... I have just come back from Africa and no sweat. I don't think I'm dying. I just think it will pass... hopefully soon! lol

Somewhere in the middle of it all, I made dinner. Pasta with some cheese sprinkled on top, and two artichokes. Deeelicious! I think I might be obsessed with artichokes... Is that a bad thing?

Oh yeah... so... um... I sort of had this issue... While I was procrastinating, I wasn't procrastinating without purpose. What I was procrastinating was writing my paper... that is due tomorrow... and my 10 sketches... that I was suppose to do over break... In Tunisia... (yeah right)... also due tomorrow. I'm very good at procrastination. I'm even procrastinating by writing this blog. ;)

It's 2am now. I just took a trip to the Mafia bakery for a chocolate fix, and finished my paper! It's pretty impressive too! You all should be very proud!

I also got a little surprise just after finishing my paper... My very first fan letter! Really? For me? Could it be? I'm getting fan mail? lol... Well... if you can call it that... I think I will though! Shout out to Terri from IE Shaffer! I loved your email, and it made my day! I guess I'm not talking to myself!

(Though in all fairness... Rabbi read my blog and told me I wasn't talking to myself moments after that blog was posted. lol... Shout out to the Kantor Family! Mazel Tov on the new addition!)

I have 3 sketches done, and 7 more to go... Wish me luck! Only 6 hours til class!

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

A Super Long Day...

2009-10-27T19:31:00.002-04:00

The day started at around 7:30am. I was in class by 8:30am. After being the only person in sculpture to not present and have their midterm critique, it was finally my turn. It's always nice when teachers grade you based on how much they like the work vs. grading it based on any skill or effort you put into a project.

Italian was Design weren't too different from any other day.

When I got home, I made dinner and then rested a bit. I'm still not feeling well. I either have an African parasite or a Venetian bug. It's still debatable.

Around 8:30pm, Amber, Brittney, and I headed back to school for the round table discussion night. We had the opportunity to meet some "real" Italians. I suppose this is opposed to all the fake ones we meet in our daily transactions in shops and on the street. We expressed what we thought about Italians, and they expressed their thoughts about Americans. It was all quite scripted, and would have been much more beneficial at the beginning of the semester. Still, there were some cute guys there. That always makes me smile. ;)

It's just past 12:30am right now. After a 17 hour day, I'm exhausted! Buona Notte!

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Lost in thought... Am I talking to myself?

2009-10-26T12:57:00.005-04:00

Though I had some disturbing dreams last night, I woke up oddly fresh. I woke up an hour before my alarm, and was ready to start my day. I only have my Italian class on Mondays, so I took my time getting ready. I showered, I went online, and I made my way to the metro.

It was an odd feeling being back in Rome. It wasn't quite home, but after being on break for 10 days, it did feel like a home away from home. I walked down the familiar street, no longer as an outsider.

The day was warm. I walked out in a t-shirt and jeans.... first time in a while. It was nice. The sun was out, and that too was greatly contributing to my good mood. When I got off the metro, I even had a chance to buy the boots I had been wanting to buy... half price of what I originally had planned! On my way to school, I couldn't wait to stop at my deli. I missed it last week. The lady behind the counter welcomed me back, and we exchanged a few words... only a few seeing as she speaks only Italian, and I can only say so much in Italian. lol

It was nice to see everyone back at school, though my feeling of distance from everyone remains. Somehow even though I am friendly with everyone, it is clear to me that I have no friends here. It's very lonely. I do not really feel connected to anyone, and I miss my friends back home.

Speaking of back home, I've started to wonder what it will be like when I get back. Have I been away so long that it won't be the same? People move on. People change. People forget. Have they forgotten about me? I too have changed. I'm not the same person I was when I got here. My experiences have influenced who I've become. In seven weeks, will my friends welcome me with open arms? Will it be like good old times that I miss so much, or will I be stuck once again all by myself, isolated from the crowd? Maybe I can bribe them with gifts. lol

After class, I made my way home, by myself as always. Though I ran into some classmates, I knew that's all I was to them. When we got off the bus, they went their way, and I went mine.

I stopped at the GS (grocery store) on the way home. What to cook tonight? Nothing like cooking for one...

On the way home, a few merchants said hello. They didn't do that before. They recognize me now. It's amazing how much we take for granted. At home, I put my groceries in the car and drive them home. Here, I walk them home. On the other hand, if I don't think about what I'm going to eat at home, there's probably some food in the fridge I can eat. I don't have that luxury here.

As I ponder all these thoughts, I wonder if it's just me searching for some attention, some contact with others? What would I do without this blog? It's too expensive to call everyone and tell them what's going on. Is anyone out there reading this? Am I talking to myself?

Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...

Venice = VEryNICE haha

2009-10-25T12:43:00.002-04:00

After getting maybe an hour of sleep, and not knowing whether the bus strike in Roma would stop my travels, Danesha and I set off for Venice.

To our surprise, we not only made it to Termini, the main train station in Roma, but we were able to purchase tickets, and board a Eurostar to Venice. The trip was 4 hours long! Luckily, I slept through most of it!

When we arrived in Venice, it was cold and raining. Still, we could sense that we were somewhere special. Apparently the strike was not just in Roma. It affected all of Italy! Both the water buses and the regular buses weren’t running until 4:30pm! And so, we decided to grab lunch… which also ended up being our dinner on the famous Grand Canal! Though the weather was miserable, it was still rather nice.

When we finally got to our bed and breakfast on the outskirts of Venice, we were exhausted! I mean… we had just been in Africa for a week, I had gotten sick, and oh yeah… an hour of sleep just doesn’t cut it… even for me! Though very far from anything, it was nice. We had our own room and bathroom. Considering we had booked the night before, we were quite pleased.
When we awoke around 7:30pm, we could see weren’t going anywhere. It was dark. We were still tired, and we had no idea if the buses were even running. And so… our first day was a bit of a bust.

We awoke the next morning fresh and ready to start our day! We were greeted with breakfast, and then made our way back to the main part of Venice. After reaching the main area, we bought 24hr passes for the water buses, which are Venice’s main form of transportation. These passes took us everywhere… including our next stop, the hostel we were staying at Saturday night. We got off at the San Marcuola stop, and began to search for Residence Maddalena. When we finally found it, there was a note on the door… “Danesha Weever, I will be back at 12:00.”

And so, we decided not to waste any time, and began to walk around. Quite shortly after we decided to sit down and have a cappuccino, and look at our map. Since we had some time to kill, we decided we would try and make our way to the Jewish Ghetto, and possibly see the museum. Not thinking clearly, I had forgotten it was Shabbos! Sure enough… the museum, synagogues, and everything else was closed. Still, it was nice to see the Ghetto Vecchio, and see that Venice has a thriving Jewish community.

Sure enough, when we made our way back to the Residence Maddalena, there was another note… “Danesha Weever, I will be back at 1pm.” This time, we decided to wait it out not to miss her again. Around 1pm, we were greeted by Clara, a very eccentric Italian woman who I fell in love with. She greeted us with open arms and took us through some back alleys to show us where we would be staying. The hostel was quite nice. There was only one other mystery girl in our room, as well as two other rooms, a living room, and a bathroom to share for all of the above. It was tidy, and included breakfast!

After putting our stuff down, we practically ran out the door! We had no time to waste if we were going to get everywhere we wanted to go. Next stop? Murano Island! This is the island famous for the Murano Glass. We took a water bus all the way down the Grand Canal! It took a little bit of time, but the ride was beautiful, and the sun even came out! I fell in love with our bus/boat driver… Apparently, all the good looking men are hiding in Venice! He was sooo good looking! Molto Bello!
When we arrived on the island, we headed straight for the glass museum. Though not quite large, there was much to see. Unfortunately, we could not take pictures! Fortunately, the stores we were in that followed did! It was so cool to see what one can do with glass… everything from chandeliers to little animal figurines. I even bought Blanche a tiny lady bug for her new apartment!

Since the glass blowing place was already closed, our next stop was San Marco’s Basilica. Mi amore, my love, was on our water bus again. As he recognized me he said Ciao. We were in such a rush though… on my way out, I said, “Ciao Bello,” and smiled. He smiled, and we went our separate ways. I guess better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all. Haha Anyway, back to reality… San Marco is the most famous church in all of Venice, and for good reason. It is stunning! Ok… maybe there’s more to it. Unfortunately, the doors closed right in front of our faces and all we could see was the beautiful facade. It was still well worth it though. The basilica is covered with cold and mosaics that would impress even the most unimpressionable person. We also saw the bell tower, and San Maria. As we had a chance to walk around the grand piazza and look at things we can’t afford, I wanted to buy everything for my mama… let’s just pretend I did, shall we? It was so beautiful… the masks, the jewelry, the glass… just breath-taking!

On the way back to our general neighborhood, we jumped on the wrong water bus and went all the way to the Venice Lido stop, which is the Venice Beach stop. Then we went all the way back up the Grand Canal… watching the sunset… passing all Venice has to offer along the way. Around the Rialto Bridge, Venice’s most famous bridge, we jumped off to take a gondola ride. Our gondola driver explained to us that the Rialto Bridge was once the center of commerce, and the highest point in Venice. He also took us past Marco Polo AND Casanova’s house. We also got to see the grand opera house! It was quite a perfect spot we picked to jump off one boat and into another. Lol
On our way back, we strolled through some more shops, and enjoyed the sights. The masks in Venice are amazing. Each one is a work of art. Eventually, we made our way to dinner, and then back to the hostel. There we met our third “girl…” I put girl in quotes because Libby was my mom’s age… and though mom turns 29 every year, Libby doesn’t. lol She was very nice though, and we became friends. :)

In the morning we woke up at what we thought was 8am… SURPRISE! It was Daylights Saving. We only realized it, though, when we were dressed and quite awake. And so, after Clara set us straight, we were off into town to buy our train ticket. Our train was leaving at 10:45ish… and so we had a little more time to grab breakfast and look around. At breakfast, we met some nice girls from Canada who were backpacking. They too, were headed to Rome today.

As we walked around and looked at more glass and masks, we couldn’t help but miss it. Venice was spectacular, truly a sight for everyone to see. Still… Roma awaits… and although Venice maybe special, a piece of my heart will always be in Roma. <3

And so, we jumped on our Eurostar, and made the 4 hour trek back to Roma…

Signing off,
Ciao Bella…

Arabian Nights... in TUNISIA!!!

2009-10-22T18:42:00.004-04:00

"Oh I come from a land, from a faraway place, where the caravan camels roam.... here they cut off your ear if they don't like your face. It's barbaric, but hey, it's home... When the wind's from the east, and the sun's from the west, and the sand in the glass is right... Come on down. Stop on by. Hop a carpet, and fly... to another Arabian night!"

Yep yep! My Alladin Fantasy has been fulfilled! I have just arrived back from my fall break trip to Tunisia! For those who don't know, Tunisia is in North Africa between Libya and Algeria... about an hour plane ride from Roma. It was incredible!

Day #1:

After the shortest flight ever, "Hi. I'm in Africa!" As we entered the airport in Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, we were first screened for H1N1, more commonly known as Swine Flu. We walked through these radar detectors that measured our body temperature, and if we had a fever, I suppose we would be detained. Luckily, we all passed! Yay! Our luggage came obnoxiously fast! Just as we walked past security, our luggage came out as if it was waiting for US to finish and come out. It was fantastic! What a wonderful start to our trip!

When we arrived at Hotel Diplomat, we were shocked to see that not only were we not staying in a hole in the wall, we were staying at a rather nice hotel. "You have to be flexible." Our professor, Maria Ponce de Leon would say. "This is my least favorite hotel." If this was her least favorite, I can't wait to see what's to come. It was pretty nice. We were all pleasantly surprised. We were welcomed with fruit juice cocktails, which we all enjoyed thoroughly. :)

French or Arabic? Those were our languages of choice. Luckily, we spoke neither...

After unpacking our things, we made our way to the Kasbah in the Medina. The Kasbah is the highest point in the gated city. The Medina is the gated city. It was beautiful. The buildings were a typical Mediteranean blue and white, white symbolizing purity and blue symbolizing the Mediteranean and the sky. We began our adventure with a Shwarma, the traditional middle-eastern sandwich. I had been familiar with it thanks to my visit to Israel, and couldn't wait! I enjoyed them more in Israel, but they were still rather tasty, and a nice change! Lucia and I made some Tunisian male friends while eating. She was trying to get them to teach her french. As she spoke her broken Italian, they responded in Arabic. It was quite the site to behold! lol Tunisian men are very inappropriate... yes... even more than me!

On the way to our next stop, we stopped in the main Piazza, which was also used as a monument for some victims. Then, we made our way through the Medina and into a perfume shop. Here they make the essence of any and all perfumes... Chanel... Dior... anything you can imagine. The man who demonstrated was hysterical. There was even a perfume called, Sabato. You can only wear it on Saturday,, because apparently he claims it's an aphrodisiac and it will turn you into a sex machine. lol

Our next stop was to the Souke, or market place. As we looked around, we found treasures galore. We couldn't wait to start shopping, but Maria told us to wait until the next day. Eric, and a tall Tunisian, got into a conversation about how tall they both were.

Tunisian: You play basketball?
Eric: Of coarse. You?
Tunisian: No
Eric: What sport do you play?
Tunisian: My sport is in the bedroom.

Told you they were inappropriate!

After the market, we headed to smoke some Hookah. At the hookah place, we also had some tea. Apparently, it's just mint green tea, but it is soooo good. They put almonds and pine nuts in them as well. Delicious! It was definitly a sight to behold watching us desperately trying to blow O's with our smoke. lol

When we got back to the hotel, we had dinner and then went over to the bar. Though none of us had intended to stay out late, we were quite creeped out by the bar. In Tunisia, only men sit in bars and cafes. As a group full of American women walked in, we were eyed down by every man in the room. Can't live in Tunisia, I thought. What would I do without my cafe Michaelangelo's?

Day #2:

An early rise, but everyone was excited! We were headed to Sousse. Rest stops? Toilette Paper? Forget it! You gotta be flexible! lol Cactus fenses surround property. A lamb wonders down the side of the street. A rooster struts his stuff. Kaka-doodle-Doo! Sousse is considered, "The Pearl of the Coast" of Tunisia. Maria thinks it should be the capital, and I agree. It's more alive than Tunis. As we walked through the Souke, the merchants told us where we were from. Apparently, I look like an Arab woman. It became the joke of the trip... A ruski that looks like an Arab.

Random Merchant: Where do you come from beautiful girl?
Me: I come from Roma. (I said with a smile, because I did.)
Random Merchant: Your face doesn't look like it's from Roma.
Me: My face isn't from Roma.
Random Merchant: Is your face from the Synagogue?

I freaked! What do I do? Yes, actually it is... but... ugh...
(Turns our in Arabic, the Synagogue refers to India. lol)

Ciao Bella! Buon Jior! Como Stas? Salam! Never a Privet or even a Hello!

Dustin and Eric came back in full Arabic attire. It was awesome! haha

Our next stop was Monastir. Monastir was right on the coast, and most of us couldn't wait to go to the beach, even if it was too cold to swim. Dustin swam though. Lucky boys and their boxers! The rest of us just got our feet wet. Then, we went climbing on some rocks. It was so cool! Some of the others went to check out the Mosoleum in the main Piazza.

After Monastir, we were off to the next hotel near Port el Kantaoui. This was definitly one of my favorite stops... for the most childish of reasons. After dropping off our stuff, some of us went to explore the port. Unfortunately, we never got there. Danesha, Yuhan, and myself stopped at the carnival and had an absolute blast! They were playing American music, and I got to ride on the carosel! La dolce vita... This is the sweet life! We even got to eat some sugary almond goodness. :)

Of coarse, after dinner, we were off to hookah and tea. Mounir bought the girls flowers, and Maria treated us all to the hookah and tea. It was so nice of them! They took such good care of us. Maria might be one of my new idols. I <3 her!

When we got back to the hotel, we continued the hookah party in Dustin and Eric's room, which seemed to be a pimped out suite... or at least a pimped our balcony. They even got some watermellon. It was wonderful! Then, Daniella, Dustin, and I continued the party in my pimped our bath tub with a bubble bath tub party. haha "Even Dustin's between Dustin's legs. You gotta be flexible." lmao

Day #3

We began day three in the city of El Gem. El Gem holds a roman ampitheater, similar to the Colloseum. This is actually where parts of Gladiator was filmed. The ampitheater is in very good shape, and you can even stand in the middle of it. You can't do that at the Colloseum. It was pretty awesome.

We then stopped in Mahares on the way to Matmata, and just as Maria said... we made a random turn and all of a sudden all you can see for miles and miles is sand! It was remarkable! This was the Africa we were all waiting for... sand dunes as far as the eyes can see... truely a whole new world!

When we got to Matmata, there was a sign welcoming us. This is actually the panorama where Star Wars was filmed. That's pretty cool. While there, we also had the opportunity to have a traditional meal. Then, we continued on to have some tea at a real Troglidite house. A troglidite house is carved into the rocks, and troglidites live there. :)

Then, we were off to Douz! This was the most incredible of incredible! We had the opportunity to ride a camel... in the Sahara desert... while watching the sunset... in the Sahara desert! Jealous? I was! I was actually jealous of my own life. It was awesome! Ciao Camelo! Come ti chiamo? Mi Chiamo Roxanne. Parli L'Italiano? lol

After the amazingness, we had dinner at the hotel with Monser... he replaced Mounir as our tour guide. He was pretty cool. He studied in Ukraine for six months so he practiced his Russian on me here and there. lol

Dinner was followed by more hookah and tea at the hotel, and then Star-Gazing on Molly and Daniella's balcony/roof-top. :)

Day #4:

"That's what's so cool out here. The strength of man is what really counts." ~ Maria

Our first stop of the morning was the Salt Lake in Chott el-Jerid. It was miraculous! It looked like we were in Alaska because everything was white, and looked cold... and it was a bit chilly, but it was covered in Salt. It's one of those things you have to see to believe. Very neat!

Next, we were off to a university in Tozeur to meet with some students. I met with two girls, and the joke was that I was darker than both of them... oops! It was interesting to see just how different our lives are. The questions they asked were about materials. The questions I asked were about life. I thought about my politically correct answer. They said it how it was.

Them: Do you live in a big house?
Me: (How do I say no when I know the size of theirs...) Umm... Well... Not really...
Them: How many rooms?
Me: (Oh crap. I'm busted!)

Me: What do you do for fun?
Them: (With a big smile on their face) Nothing. I go to school and I go home.

Them: What's your dream in life?
As I pieced together my well-constructed essay, I asked them the same question...
Them: To be a good wife.

Them: Do you have liberty?
Me: Liberty with what?
Them: With everything. With the money you make from work? I give all my money to my parents. It is not mine to keep.

It's amazing how little we realize until we step out of our bubble. It was also interesting to note that they shared with us a communication model that I learn in every class, and saw it as useless until now.

The girls were very warm. Ironically enough, they taught me some German, and I taught them some Russian. lol They insisted on swapping emails and numbers, and referred to me as their new best friend... whole heartedly. :)

Back to being a tourist... back to our fantasy bubble... too much reality... our next stop was a carriage ride through the beautiful Palm Date Oasis. Eric, Dustin, Daniella, Molly, and I had the best driver. He picked us some pomegrantiz and Jasmine, and even let Eric drive. lol When we made our stop, we got to eat some dates right from the Palm trees. We also got to watch a man climb up on of them to show us how they collect them.

Next stop, down-town Tozeur for lunch.

After lunch, the 4x4's picked us up, and we were off! First stop, a wild ride through the sand-dunes in the jeeps. Though I was pretty terrified, it was awesome, especially with the Arabic music blasting in the background. Then, we drove off into the mountains near Chebika, Tamerza, and Mides, and were let off to hike near the Algerian border. The sites were breath-taking. We even got to see the Grande Cascade.

As the daylight came to an end, we stopped back at Chott el Jerid to watch the sunset over the salt lake. At dinner, we celebreated Nicole's 21st birthday, and we were all jealous that she got to do it in Tunisia!

After dinner, Maria's friend Sadok came to take us out to the desert. He was the desert man. He was the badass desert man. His brother Shoukri also accompanied him. The stars were unlike anything I've ever seen before. We actually saw the Milky Way! Not only that, but shooting stars filled the sky! It was one of the most magical experiences of my life. For Nicole's birthday, Sadok gave her a way of stars. It was priceless.

Six boys thought they would also be badass and tried to stay out. Maria was not having it, and Sadok was starting to worry, so he went back after them. Of coarse, being a badass, he found them. lol

When we got back, a few of us had the pleasure of joing Sadok and Shoukri for some hookah and tea, and he told us tales of the desert, and his travels. He said when he was in Spain for five years, he lost his smile. There's NO crime in Douz. People are real. He missed the simplicity of the desert life. He was a true desert man, even when he was a child... a truely incredible man, and human being. You could see his kindness in his eyes, a real genuine soul.

Day #5:

Nothing like a 5am wake up, to get to you started. We were off to the holy city of Kairouan. In the Muslim religion, they say if you make a Pilgrimage to Kairouan six times, it is the equivalent of making one pilgrimage to Mecca. When we got there, we visited the Bacini degli Aghlabiti, the Grande Mosque, and the Zaouia di Sidi Abdel Qadir el-Djilani. The last stop was the Mosaleum of the man who traveled with Mohamed and held the gates to Paradise. They say if you can fit between the two colums, you are set. Of coarse, my well-fed Jewish ass did not fit... oh well... no virgins for me. ;)

After an exhuasting day of travel, we arrived at the Hotel Marina Palace where we had dinner, heard some live music, and went to bed. I, Roxanne Zhilo, was in bed at 9:45pm. It was for sure a record, but I wasn't feeling well.

Day #6:

Day six began with a visit to Salamboi, which is the Fenician Cemetary. It was quite peaceful. Then, we wanted to go to the Baths of Antonine, but Presidential activity conflicted with our plans. So instead, we headed straight for the Hill of Birsa, where ruins of ancient Carthage still stand. It was quite cool to see how much we could compare between Rome and Carthage.

Afterwards, we headed over to the Carthafe Ampitheater, and then to the American Cemetary. The American Cemetary held the fallen soldiers from WWII. It too was quite peaceful and serene. It was shocking to see how many of our men had died over there.

Our last stop was Sidi Bou Said. This hill top town had stunning views and obnoxiously expensive prices. Still, I managed to find a Tunisian man who said he would like to be my husband.

Though a constant struggle, I made it through the day, and to our last hotel. We were back in Tunis, at our first Hotel Diplomat. It was true. This was my least favorite hotel as well.

It's amazing how much we take for granted... even drinking water. You can't drink the water in Tunisia. It will make you sick. Most people got sick anyway throughout the trip. Me? I got sick the last two days. By the this point, I had strength to do nothing. Everyone hung out the last night... smoked hookah... I layed in bed and thought I was dying... alone... dramatic I know. lol

Day # 7:

I tried to have breakfast twice, but it didn't work. As everyone took their last trip to the Suoke, I stayed in the hotel and rested. Half past noon, we were off to the airport. By 6pm, Rome time, we had landed. Nothing like being back home... almost. ;)

Tomorrow, assuming the transportation strike doesn't stop me, I'm attempting one more trip before Monday morning classes. Yes... that means I'm feeling better. I'll be sure to write all about it when I get back!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella

Off to Tunisia!!!!

2009-10-15T17:50:00.003-04:00

I'm keeping tonight's blog short...

I finished with midterms today, and fall break has officially begun!

Me and Daniella spent the evening together eating an awful dinner in Piazza Navuona, and then of coarse, heading to the Mafia bakery for one last treat before we leave for a week.

Surprisingly, I'm finished packing... about to shower... and I'm off to TUNISIA!!!

When I get back, I promise to write a super long blog with all the glorious details from my trip... Hope you're ready! Can't wait! Hookahs, tea, and camel riding... Here I come!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Midterms... Need I Say More?

2009-10-14T20:47:00.002-04:00

Once again, 90's pop music has taken me out of depression, and motivated me to keep going. haha... For your listening pleasure, I have included a link to a mix that just made my evening.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMpK7FPn5Sc&NR=1

This morning I awoke in a daze of confuze... not confusion... a daze of "confuze." Emily's boyfriend is visiting her in Roma, and so when I awoke, the first thing I noticed was the "boy" on the couch. Though normally, I wouldn't think much of such a spectacle, and Emily did warn me... it was still a bit foggy. "A boy!" As if I don't go to school with them, or haven't seen one in ages, I was both puzzled and perplexed about this creature. Though he lay with his back towards me, I wanted nothing more than for him to turn around, if only for a second. lol

As I made my way to my deli, and then to Italian, I thought about why I was so confused. It's almost 3am, and I have yet to figure it out.

In Italian, we reviewed more for our midterm, which is tomorrow. We asked Christiano about logistics and such, and all he could respond was, "Discusssting!" Apparently, according to our professore, this exam would be taking a couple days and we would all be camping out at school. Yeah... ok! I have a plane to catch MR!

After class, I made my way home to a more than unproductive afternoon/evening. Between the hours of 4pm-11pm, I did just about nothing... with a side of pity, homesickness, boredom, procrastination, facebook, and straight blah, I sat around and pretended to do something.

At one point, I finished my drawing assignment for class tomorrow. We do have our midterm critique in the morning...

Around 11pm, Daniella called for a bakery run. We went to the further one with all the Italians, on Ottaviano. It is super delicious, though I am saving my treat for morning.

Between 12-3am, I studied extremely hard for my Italian exam. Keep in mind... 4pm-3am... lol

If not for the 90's music I put on around 9-10pm, this blog wouldn't even be written.

Quick shout out to the Shtuly Family. Much Love!

Two midterms, the class I despise, and an evening of packing and pleasure are the only thing that stand between me and fall break. Can't wait! Wish me luck! Buona Notte...

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Another Cosi Cosi Day...

2009-10-13T14:53:00.002-04:00

Figures that after staying up late to complete my sculpture project, that I would be the only individual we didn't get to today. Now, my critique will have to wait til after break, and midterms hang over my head an extra two weeks.

Italian was blah, and Design even more blah.

I came home, and made dinner for Amber and I... Shrimp Scampi. Wasn't bad... wasn't really good either... Then, I took a nap.

Now, I'm up. It's 9pm. I'd like some sweets, but everyone is in crazy midterm studying mode. I suppose I could start studying for Italian early, but nah... Is this week over yet?

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Cosi Cosi: So So...

2009-10-12T15:55:00.002-04:00

Today was a bit of a blah day...

After the very busy week/weekend, and knowing midterms are this week, I allowed myself to sleep in today. I awoke at 11:30am, dealt with some laundry and other chores, and made my way to school.

Before class, I stopped by my favorite deli for my favorite sandwich. Then, I was off to Italian class. As we began our review for our midterm, which is Thursday, I began to stress about how much I have to study!

After class, I came home and slept... til 6:30pm.

The weather was all over the place today. When I woke, it was raining... then it was sunny and warm... then it was raining... and now its soooo cold. Fa molto freddo! I'm sure it is affecting my mood as well.

After a small dinner of fried vegetable dumplings, which I picked up at the Asian Supermarket yesterday, I went on facebook in search of someone to chat with. Being in the apartment almost all day, doing nothing productive, made me quite homesick.

Just as I expected, I had my daily message from my little one, Aline. HI ALINE!!! lol... Shout out as promised. Your messages always make me smile. It's nice to know that I'm not forgotten back home, and people still think of me. I miss you too, as well as everyone else!

Daneesha and I are taking a trip to the Mafia bakery tonight. I'm in need of some chocolate therapy. Then, I MUST finish this silly box project for sculpture. Our midterm critique is tomorrow morning at 8:30am. I'm VERY nervous. I'm hoping I don't mess up my GPA with these classes that are completely irrelevant to my major. haha

Wish me luck!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Back to Life. Back to Reality.

2009-10-11T15:26:00.004-04:00

Wednesday night and Thursday morning brought nightmares and terrors... literally! Waking up not knowing where I was, the morning started off quite turbulent.

My drawing class was working with tones, so by 8:30am, I had to be at Palatine Hill. From there... a quick sandwich with Ashley at my favorite deli, back to school for in between class work, Italian, and then Design. My design class met at the infamous Campo Di Fiori. From there we walked to the famous Fuksas office. Fuksas is a famous architect in Italy. A nice Hungarian architect, who happened to be very cute, gave us a tour of the office.

Being Blanche's last couple days in Rome, we decided it appropriate that I spend them with her whole-hearted-ly and even stay with her at the Grand Flora Hotel. So, Thursday straight after classes I journeyed to the hotel. Now... I say journeyed because it was quite the adventure. I jumped on the wrong bus, and a trip that should take no more than 20 minutes took me an hour, if not more.

Once I finally got there, exhausted from my lack of sleep due to nightmares, and my extremely busy and long day, we headed straight to dinner. We had dinner near the Spanish steps, and I finally got my beef carpaccio. It was delicious! Afterwards, we headed over to a gelateria and then home to rest for the next days festivities.

We began Friday morning with breakfast on the roof top terrace overlooking Roma. It was beautiful. Rome is beautiful... From there, we were off to the Jewish Ghetto, but not before stopping at the quoted, "Best Espresso in Roma." I really enjoy the ghetto. I feel at home there. All I could think and hum was, "I'm a Jew and I'm proud." Though, we did not get to walk inside the Great Synagogue due to Sukkot, it was still glorious... and so many good looking men! One was even carrying a lulav and etrog. When I saw him, I tried to stop him. Scuzi signore, may I shake your lulav? It is a mitzvah after all. Unfortunately, he didn't hear me. He was too far away. Blanche was quite relieved!

As we walked through the ghetto, Blanche googled information on her Blackberry for our very own private tour. We even went to a very exclusive hidden restaurant that has no sign. We even had to become members of a cultural association in order to eat there. It was soooo good!

After the ghetto, we went to the Capitolini Museum. This is where the famous Romulus and Ramus statue is housed, along with many other famous pieces. There was also an exhibition on Michelangelo. Everything there was incredible! To my surprise, outside the museum, in the famous Michelangelo designed piazza... was a poster of Gilad Shalit, and in Italian it said, "Free Gilad Shalit." It was nice to see the support, and Italy definitely scored some more points with me.

After making it through the museum, and taking a bunch of goofy pictures, we made our way to our next stop. Our next stop was the famous Bocca della Verita. Bocca della Verita is the Mouth of Truth, and it was made famous in the movie, Roman Holiday. The rumor is if you tell a lie, your hand will be bitten off.

The following stop was for gelato. We deserved it, and it was about time. We went to a place that had 100 flavors, and I finally found my perfect combination. I had passion fruit, and black passion. Black passion is dark chocolate with raspberries. It was sensational! I'll definitely be going back!

Once we came off our gelato high, we made our way to Piazza Navuona. I hadn't been there yet, and I was definitely not disappointed. Music, art, and glorious sculptures filled this Piazza and brought it to life. Street musicians and local artists shared and sold their work. It was buzzing with creativity. The young drunken American tourists began to sing and dance. Some drunken Spanish tourists joined in for the festivities, proving that not only Americans drink and make fouls of themselves. Still, they were having the time of their life. They were surrounded by friends, and did not have a single care in the world. I thought of my friends, and wondered what they were up to at that exact moment.

From there, we came home, showered, and made our way to Trastevere for dinner.

Saturday morning started off a bit gloomy. Booming thunder made us a bit hesitant to get out of bed. Luckily, by the time we woke, it was gone and the sun was on its way!

I first took Blanche to Piramidi. Piramidi holds on of the oldest, best preserved structures in all of Rome. The funny part is that it's a pyramid! It used to be a mausoleum. Now, it stands as a monument, along side the Aueralian Wall and Museo della Via Ostiense.

After taking a picture or two, since that's all there is to do there, we made our way to Terme di Caracalla. I had been wanting to go, but had not yet had a chance, and so I decided to take Blanche. These ancient ruins are the remains of the Roman Baths. There are quite majestic and very large. The roman baths used to be a major part of a Roman's day. They went there not only to bathe, but also so socialize, participate in sports, and much more!

From there, it was time for a Gelato break, and so I took Blanche to the oldest gelateria in Italy. I love it there! Amber and I are frequent visitors!

Once we had our fix, we strolled over to San Maria Maggiore, one of the four main churches in Rome. As you would expect, it is definitely a sight to behold! After, we quickly grabbed a cafe at the oldest cafe in Roma.

Before the evening's festivities, but after our shower, we made our way to the fanciest hotel in all of Rome to have a drink. The service was impeccable, and it really was something special.

Once our buzz had kicked in, I took Blanche to the oldest Jazz club in all of Italy. It was definitely magical. After a quick conversation with the musicians outside, not knowing they were the ones performing, we went inside to fill our our membership. The way it works is you become a member for the month. Then, you can frequent the club as often as you like for a very small nightly fee. You wouldn't believe how cheap if I told you. It was awesome. We saw a quartet with a special guest trombone player. They really were world class musicians, and the best part is the place is right around the corner from my apartment. :)

Sunday morning, we woke up at the crack of dawn. We grabbed a quick breakfast, and Blanche was off to airport. I was back to life... back to reality.

Turns out, reality aint so bad! After a little more sleep, I awoke for my day with Amber. We had planned to finally go to Porta Portese, and so we did! Porta Portese is the largest flea market in Rome, and I would argue in the world! Though we have no real sense of how much ground we covered in relation to the whole market, we walked for what seemed like forever and still didn't reach the end. Not only that but, we got lost half way through within the flea market! It was wonderful though. I bought sooo much stuff! Carry-on luggage for my trips, boots, boots, will go back for more boots, shirt, wrap, and some more. We had the greatest time exploring around. You really can buy ANYTHING there.

When we were completely exhausted, hungry, and thirsty, we decided to go get some grub. There was a Chinese place we've been meaning to try and so we decided today was the day. Though we'll never tell anyone about it, it was INCREDIBLE! We finally found Chinese that tasted like Chinese, and it was cheap and delicious, and officially the secret Amber and Roxanne hide-out. :)

We were so excited, we insisted on celebrating at our favorite gelateria. I have finally found the perfect triple combo with their flavors; chocolate, mango, and frutti di bosco... Mmm. On our way out, we found an Asian supermarket... that accepts credit cards! What a glorious day!

Once home, I began doing laundry which seemed to take FOREVER! Some of it is still drying, and will be til at least tomorrow. My jeans though, and all my pants in general, I decided to pay to dry them. Towards the end of the second drying cycle, Drew decides to skype me. Though excited to hear from him, I had a feeling...

Sure enough... Drew keeps me just a few minutes to long, and I get upstairs at 9:02pm. The door is locked, and every pair of pants I own is locked inside. Pant-less and wearing very short shorts, I go outside to the porter to see what he can do for me.

Thank goodness! The porter felt some pity for me as I stood in front of him shivering in my little shorts and t-shirt. "I have no pants to wear tomorrow, signore." Quietly giggling, he gives me the keys and asks me to be quick. "We never do this. I'll make an exception this ONE time." "Grazie, grazie." I respond. I bolted upstairs, and of coarse returned the key almost instantly.

Midterms this week... but the week's end brings much excitement! Can't wait!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Busy Busy Busy

2009-10-07T19:06:00.003-04:00

Though I slept in this morning, I did not get home til 11pm. It was quite the long day. After enjoying my Mafia Bakery breakfast treats I had purchased last night, I went to my afternoon Italian class.

Following Italian, I made my way down to the sculpture studio to continue working on my projects. Midterms are next week, and that means our projects are due and critiques are just around the corner. After discovering that my plaster cast was not quite up to my standards I began again. I did it about 5 times, one of which I dumped a glove full of plaster all over my nice jeans. Classy I know... :)

After taking a break and grabbing a delicious sandwich from my favorite deli, I attempted the task again, and this time had a bit more success. We'll see how it goes.

In the evening, I stopped to check out the art exhibit Temple was hosting tonight.

"Temple Rome in collaboration with Mondelliani Ottica, presents "davicino...da lontano: cinque anni di window art Mondelliani," aretrospective of five years of artist window displays for the Mondelliani concept store on Via dei Bergamaschi, Roma. Mondelliani, specialized in design eyeglasses, opened the "smallest gallery in Rome" in 2005 in the windows of its new space, hosting Roman artists of different disciplines who created installations specifically for the space. The exhibition will present recent works by the artists."

It was pretty interesting and Blanche even came to visit, and check it out.

At 9pm, I had my meeting for fall break. Yes, yes... fall break. Though my prior plans booked two months ago had fallen through, I managed to get a spot on the trip being organized by school. You'll never guess where I'm going. Maybe I should keep it a surprise...

Alright, alright. I'm going to TUNISIA! Yep... Roxanne is headed to North Africa!

I'm uber excited, and can't wait. I leave October 16th. That's like a week from now!

On the way home, I grabbed some gelato with friends, and then ate leftovers from yesterday with Daneesha. It was so cute. All day long Danielle was complimenting my dinner. :)

Now, it's back to the drawing boards... literally... lots of work to do before bed.

Buonna Notte!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

E Buonissimo!

2009-10-06T18:58:00.003-04:00

This morning, Roberto took us to the Modern Museum of Art with our sculpture class. It was very interesting, and I'd really like to go back and spend some more time there. Afterwards, he took us for a row boat ride in Villa Borghese. It was quite lovely. :)

Following our time in the park, we headed back to the studio for class. Italian and Design followed. I got an A on my Italian exam! Yay!

After classes, I headed to the supermarket to get some groceries. I made Blanche and Danielle dinner tonight...

Menu:
- Mozarella Caprese
- Sauteed Tomatoes and Onions
- Beef Liver with a Frutti Di Bosco Jam
- Sauteed Mushrooms with Roasted Potatoes with Garlic
- Pan Fried Veal Rolled in a Pesto, Ricotta, Tomato Sauce

It was pretty fantastic. We followed dinner with the Mafia Bakery and Gelato by the Trevi Fountain. It was quite the evening. Now, I'm exhausted! Buona Notte!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Ballin in Ballerville on Baller Island...

2009-10-05T17:51:00.005-04:00

This weekend, I once again joined my sister for a weekend excursion. Since the weather was crummy when I woke friday morning, I decided to take my time. Eventually, I rolled out of bed and made my way to Termini. From Termini, I took a train to Naples.

While on the train to Naples, I met a nice couple from England: Bob and Sue. They took care of me as their own, and even insisted on me joining them when they left our air-conditionless cart. Once we got to Naples, we journeyed together to find our way to Sorrento.

My sister, Blanche, was waiting for me when I arrived in Sorrento. After checking me into our Palace... the place was called the Hilton Sorrento Palace, and it was... we made our way into town to get some grub. The stroll was nice, though both of us were a bit disappointed with lunch. It took them four tries before they brought me the right dish. Who knew hamburger could be so complex?

When we made it back to the Palace, we went swimming in our own imperial indoor grotto... ok, maybe not, but it sure seemed like it. The indoor swimming pool was magical. It was truly something special. I can't even describe it. Check out the pictures. "Ballerific"... was all I could say... all weekend!

After a quick dip in the Palace Pool, we showered and made our way back to town for dinner. Salvatore sat us in the VIP section, and then the owner of the restaurant greeted us and took our order. It was ridiculous! The meal was exquisite. Tony... our other waiter... we had two... even found a flower, and tucked it behind my ear. Then, he invited us out to a bar. He was very persistent, and very cute! Still, I chose to behave myself and go to bed. We had a long day ahead of us! Salvatore, who's older than Dad, offered me a private tour of Capri. The third waiter wouldn't stop staring. They loved me... and I loved them. Antica Trattoria was delicious and fantastic!

When we woke Saturday morning, we were off to Marina del Cantone. I had been there three summers ago with my parents, and was excited to go back. When we arrived it was just as I remembered it... a little whole in the wall Paradise, that few people knew about. Alfonzo and Alessandro were still there, though they did change slightly. Though they tried to remember who I was, there was very vague if any recognition. We spent the day lounging on the beach. It was wonderful.

When we got back to the Palace, we grabbed our stuff and found our way to the Marina. From there, we took the hydrofoil to Capri. The hydrofoil is an extremely fast boat that should not be taken by sane individuals.

When we got to Capri, it was even more fantastic than I remembered... mainly because this time I wasn't just visiting for the day... we were staying for TWO nights! Not only were we staying in Capri, we were totally BALLIN! When we arrived at the Marina, we were greeted by Davide. Davide works for the Marriot, and is stunning. He had our luggage taken away, and escorted us via cable car to the hotel.

Once we got there, we were upgraded to a room that cost more than my life... ok not really... but damn! We were staying in some suite extraordinaire that cost 1500 EURO a night x2 = 3000 Euro for two nights. It was practically an apartment! The balcony was the size of my apartment in Rome... maybe not, but wow. The view was breathtaking. We had a bathroom with marble and mosaics, a hall way, a bedroom with two big fluffy beds, a living room with a big luscious couch. The terrace/balcony was my favorite though. It had TWO tables and a couch. AMAZING!!

We dinner at the place suggested by Davide, and then went to Billy's, a local pub. haha... It's where all the cool twelve year olds go to drink with their grandfathers? Maybe? Still a bit confused about that one...

The following morning we woke up early in order to make it to the Blue Grotto. The wait was a little long, but it was well worth it. We took one bus to Ana Capri, and then another bus to the Blue Grotto. Then, we stood in line and waited our turn. When it was our time, we got into a little boat, tucked and covered, and watched as our guide pulled us into the underwater cave. When we got inside, it was unbelievable! The water glowed a glorious royal blue color, unlike any water I've seen before. Some of the guides even sang!

When we got out of the grotto, I felt the need for some swimming, and so we attempted to find a beach. Though we were unsuccessful in finding a "traditional" beach, we did find some stairs that go all the way down a cliff, and into the water. And so, I decided to go in... then, I made Blanche follow suit! After getting out to take some pictures, my next trip in was via cliff jumping into the beautiful blue water. It was the coolest! We even met the coolest Italian grandmother EVER who joined us for our cliff-side swim. She lives in Ana Capri. She told me all about it... in Italian... and I responded... IN ITALIAN! I was impressed!

We continued our adventure with a stroll through Ana Capri. It's absolutely fantastic there. It's such a charming little place. It's more low key and down to earth, than the glamorous Capri that is studded with the rich and famous, designers lining every window, and fabulous people around every corner. The "normal" people live here... my kind of people.

After lunch, we took a chair lift to the very top of the island. I felt like I was E.T. flying to the moon on his bicycle, except I was on a chair. Though terrifying, this is definitely the coolest thing I have done so far in my time abroad. The views were unbelievable. No worries though, I tool TONS of pictures!

When we made it down from the top of the world, we headed to Marina Grande for some last minute beach time. Then, we headed to the hotel. Once there, we went to the roof-top terrace and enjoyed the whirlpool jacuzzi, then we went back to the also ballerific pool. :)

By the time, we made it back to our room, we were exhausted. So, after a fantastic dinner for two, we went straight to bed.

We awoke early to have breakfast at the hotel. There's nothing like a little Spumanti to start off your day. Then, we headed down to Marina Piccola for some glorious beach time.

On the way home, we took the slow ferry... just as I prefer... then we jumped on a train back to Roma. I'll be visiting Blanche in her hotel throughout the week. She's staying at the Grand Flora Mariott... Ballerific of coarse...

Meanwhile, back to reality for me...

My fall break trip is being canceled. So much for booking it two months in advance! I wonder when they are going to tell me. I found our from someone else... Anyone have any ideas for me? My fall break is in two weeks and I have nothing to do... I think I'll sleep on it...

Till Tomorrow... Buona Notte...

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

With Cream On Top ;)

2009-10-01T18:03:00.003-04:00

After getting less than 2 hours of sleep, today started out as a pretty hectic day. By 7:45am, I was out the door and on the way to my on-site drawing class. We met at Isola Tiberina, which is right between the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere. Since I had been there earlier this week, the trip was quite easy.

We worked with ink wash today. I did surprisingly well. Check out the pics of my art. :)

After the first class, I ran around like a crazy person. Then, I decided to post-pone my meeting with Blanche til Friday morning. Once this was decided, I ran to school for my Italian exam. Keep your fingers crossed, but I think I did well. :)

My "favorite" class was next. We went to the Spezio Sette Design Store. It was pretty cool. We got to speak with the main man, and saw a lot of neat things. I took some pics of the jewelry for mom. If I was rich, I'd buy mama dukes a everything in there for the kitchen and home. Then, I'd hire a private chef and maid to take care of it. haha

A nice stroll home was just what I needed before dinner. I made baked ziti tonight with marinaded artichoke. Brittney and Danesha brought the wine and mozarella caprese. I also made this garlic/olive oil dip for the breadsticks... yummm!

Of coarse, we ended our night with gelato from Old Bridge... near the Vatican. We love the boys there, and one of them was even in Philly before. They are adorable! Plus, they give us HUGE portions of gelato... with cream on top, just the way we like it. haha

Looking forward to seeing Blanche again tomorrow!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

30 Days Has September...

2009-09-30T20:52:00.003-04:00

It's officially been one month...

I was contemplating what to write about today, and then it hit me. I have been here for a whole month. I began to think of all the emotions I have felt, all the life lessons I have learned, all the wonderful things I have seen, and all the things that I have experienced. I thought it would be appropriate to track back. And so... I went through all my blogs, and began to read.

I was amazed at all the things I had seen and experienced in such a short period of time. I also had a chance to reflect upon the roller coaster of emotions I had gone through... I looked back on them differently. Both the good times and the bad were necessary, and I truly feel like a stronger person because of them. I was forced to learn lessons in a short period of time, that takes others years, even a life-time, to learn.

Here are some of the places I've been...

Umbrio:

Todi
Titignano

Lazio:

Tuscania
Santa Marinella

Sicily:

Palermo
Monreale
Mondello

And of coarse... my love... Roma...
Look how much I have seen of Roma! I am quite proud. :)

Piazza degli Eroi
Pratti
Flaminio
Piazza del Popolo
Piazza di Spagna
Fontana di Trevi
Vittorio Emanule
Piazza Barberini
Colloseo
Villa Borghese
Villa di Medici
Pantheon
Piazza di Ignazio
Foro Imperiale
Foro Italico
Pocchio Verde
Quartierre Coppede
Piazza Mincio
Piazza di Republicca
Trestevere
Cambo di Fiori
San Giovani
The WHOLE Aueralian Wall
Appian Way
Pyramidi
Porta Tiburtina
Porta Latina
Corelia
Porta Salaria
Piazza Bologna
La Parco della Musica
Auditorium
Piazza Venezia
Vittoriano
Musei Vaticani
San Pietro Basilica
Via del Corso
Piazza Risorgimento

It's been quite an adventure, and I'm really enjoying the ride...

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

"No, non triste. Sono Americana." No, I'm not sad. I'm American. haha

2009-09-29T18:10:00.004-04:00

Sculpture class in the morning, and then Italian.

In Italian class we were being asked questions and answering them, having a dialogue in Italian. We were all so proud.. until... Christiano asks me, "Sei triste?" I assume... remembering that sei tedesko was, are you german, that he's probably asking if im from some weird country I don't know how to say in Italian. SO... I say. "No, non triste. Sono Americana." Christiano starts cracking up, and I'm just looking at him in a daze of confusion. "Roxanne, I asked if you are sad. You said, 'No, I'm not sad. I'm American." Obviously, the whole class, including myself start hysterically laughing. I was practically in tears. Why would I be sad? I'm American. lol

My design class was next. I choose not to comment.

After class, I headed to the alimentari to pick up some sauce for my pasta. Of coarse, 4:40pm... it was STILL closed for siesta. Go figure! Not wanting to head back and forth, I decided I would see what was in the fridge. One tomatoe, an onion, garlic, basil, and olive oil... perfeto! I mixed up my scraps and created a red sauce for my parpadella pasta, sprinkled on some parmesan, cracked open a bottle of wine, and enjoyed with Daniella.

Afterwards, we headed over to the Trevi fountain to have some gelato. I know what you're going to say... how many times can a person go to the Trevi fountain? To answer your question, an unlimited amount of times if you have the ability to. And so... regular Tuesday night in Roma... gelato at the Trevi fountain. It was beautiful. :)

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Apparently tonight, we all start with a clean slate. :)

2009-09-28T18:49:00.002-04:00

After much struggle and failure on Rosh Hashanah, I am proud to announce that I finally made it to the synagogue for Yom Kippur. There was still much struggle, and of coarse not eating all day made it that much more difficult, but we made it!

After the boys were done with class, we RAN as fast as we could to get to the metro, got off the metro, jumped on a bus, got off the bus, and RAN towards the synagogue. It was glorious. We went to the "Great" Synagogue in the Jewish Ghetto. As we passed through intense security and walked into the gates of the synagogue, I began to tear up, overwhelmed by the synagogue, the mass amounts of people... my people, and a feeling of FINALLY making it. Though I myself was not allowed inside due to my genitalia, we made it just in time to see the Torah coming around and hear the shofar sound, signaling the end of the fast.

Afterwards, I stayed with Sam and Marti to enjoy the breaking of the fast at a nice Kosher restaurant in the Jewish Ghetto. It was delicious. :)

When I got back to the residence, I ran into roommate Amber. Amber was with her friend Alex who is visiting. The girls were waiting for some other girls, and invited me along. They were headed to the infamous "Mafia" bakery. Though the Mafia does not really own it... well we're not sure haha... it's only open at night and they sell fresh, warm deliciousness for real cheap! There is no sign or anything, but it is close to the residence... though it is on a bit of a shady street. Still... you can't beat six warm, fresh chocolate, garlic, and pizza thingies for only 1euro. Yes! Six for 1Euro! I will definitely come back again... plus I'm in love with the man inside. He's just so damn adorable, and he wears these ballerific slippers. haha

Hope everyone had an easy fast. Shana Tova!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

A Weekend in Sicilia...

2009-09-27T20:10:00.003-04:00

The adventure began friday at 5am. That's when I awoke...

By 5:20am, I was out the door and heading for the airport. In order to make the trip as affordable... ok as cheap as possible... I took two metros and a train to get there with my roommate and another fellow classmate. Amber escorted me as far as she could, and I greatly appreciated it. Once she left me, I was on my own.

I arrived in Sicily, in the Palermo airport, a whole hour later. haha Before I could turn my MP3 player on, I was already being told to turn it back off for landing. After waiting for the many delayed flights and mechanical difficulties to end, Blanche arrived... FOUR hours later!

It didn't matter though. We were together, and we were in Sicily! We jumped on the bus to the city of Palermo and made our way to the hotel. LUCKILY, it started to rain just as we got off the bus and began our walk to the hotel. :D

Our hotel was baller. Can you say Posh Review? haha It was the Hilton Excelsior... way out of my league. Lucky for me, it's not out of Blanche's. :)

After dropping off our stuff and taking a quick shower, we decided not to waste any time. And so, we began to explore the streets of Palermo. We walked down the main streets and through the piazzas. We even stopped for some cafe. There's nothing like exploring new cities with Blanche though. Before I knew it we were walking around some shady neighborhood... next to a prison. Good going big sister!

Blanche definitely made up for it with with the rest of the evening though. We began at the local wine bar. It was called Giufa. It was very classy, very sophisticated, very POSH! As if the hotel and wine bar wasn't baller enough, the restaurant we went to after SCREAMED Posh Review! I was thinking about my Luba Love the WHOLE time! It was called the Bellotero. It was absolutely incredible! We started out with insalata di mare as our anti-pasto. Then, I moved on to an orgasm in my mouth, otherwise known as heaven on earth... ok, ok, ok... it was Sea Urchin soup with prawn and other deliciousness. I was knocked unconscious from sheer pleasure and cannot recall the exact name. Meanwhile, Blanche had truffle tortellini... yes you heard right... truffle tortellini. For our entree we split the grilled fish. Though this may sound blande, let me elaborate. This dish consisted of grilled tuna and swordfish, grilled squid and shrimp. It also had a side of potatoes. It was magnificant. Unfortunately, I was already pretty full so I could not enjoy it quite the same. For desert, we shared some cookies with french vanilla gelato and a strawberry mouse. Mmmm... On the way home, we passed Giufa, which was packed and decided we would head over the following evening. :)

The next morning we woke up ready to see Palermo. Again we explored the main streets and back alleys. We saw the grand theater, and the piazzas, and even the famous market. Then, we hopped on a bus and went to the neighboring city of Monreale. The bus stopped in the center of town in Piazza V. Emanuele. In this piazza stood a grand church, Santa Maria la Nuova. Inside, it is covered in mosaic. It is simply remarkable! And of coarse, for the 3rd time this week, I climbed to the top of the duomo to see the spectacular view... but this time with sister, Blanche.

That evening, we made our way back to Giufa. Well... lets just say, I promised my sister... what happens in Sicily stays in Sicily...

The following morning, I was in desperate need of a beach, and so we made our way to the neighboring city of Mondello. The water was a clear blue green, and the mountainous background was simply breathtaking. Lunch was just as spectacular. We had octopus, raw oysters, and a plate of sea urchin served in the shell... amazing! And, of coarse, after lunch, we had gelato. It was a must! Blanche's weekend wouldn't be complete.

We then headed back to the hotel so I could shower and pack, before I had to leave for the airport. When I finally arrived back to Roma, it truly felt like I was home. That first trip really did make Rome feel like a home away from home.

Even in Roma, It's Nice When Class is Canceled!

2009-09-24T17:53:00.002-04:00

Absolutely exhausted from yesterday's activities, I couldn't be more thankful for the phone call I received at 7:09am. My teacher had called to tell me that class was canceled. Though I was sad that I wasn't going to Piazza Navuona, and of coarse that Anita was sick... I welcomed the extra sleep I was desperately in need of.

When I awoke, I went to school for Italian, and then my Inside Italian Design class. Today, our trip was to Renzo Piano's Auditorium. It's the main concert venue in Rome, and consists of three different auditoriums. It's also part of the Parco della Musica. While taking out tour, we even got to hear a band rehearsing. Unfortunately/fortunately, they were playing American music. haha

After class, I came home to make dinner for me and my roommate. Then, later we went for gelatto... always a good way to spend both time and money. ;)

Later, I decided it was time our kitchen got a good scrubbing. Then, I packed for my trip!

This weekend I'm going to meet my sister, Blanche, in Sicily! She's going to be touring around Italy for the next two weeks, and so we're spending our weekends together. I'm very excited to see her! Unfortunately... I have to be up at 5am, and its midnight now. I still have to shower, and her flight is delayed. Just my luck... haha

Oh well, let's make the best of this!
Since I'm going away for the weekend, I won't be writing every night.
I'll take notes, and lots of pictures! Til Sunday...

Buon Weekend!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

"Roma e bella... Roma e magnifico... Roma e perfeto..."

2009-09-23T17:02:00.007-04:00

A ten minute walk. Yep... the Vatican is a ten minute walk from my apartment, and so I decided enough waiting for people. It was time to go. I had class today only from 2-3pm, giving me plenty of time to use my morning for something productive.

Make like an Italian and cut the line, and so I did. By 8:45am, I was in line for the Vatican museum. By 9am, I was in. :)

I made it through in record time. Though this has its pros and cons, I had been to the Vatican before, and only spent time on art work that "spoke" to me. Sistina Capella was just as glorious this time around, if not more. I stood right under the famous scene of touching fingers, and thought, "Wow! How cool is this?!" I even made it to the Pinotecca, which is a separate gallery within the Vatican museum filled with religious works of art.

When I was done with the Vatican Museum, I still had time so I made my way over to San Pietro's Square and Basilica. Sistina Capella is one story,but this is simply remarkable. The building in all its glory is really under appreciated. I even got to see the Pope speak!

After making it through, I decided to make the journey to the top of the capella. This is no laughing matter. They tell you it is 321 steps. False! It's much more, and most of it is small, narrow, spiral steps. In many instances, I felt as though if I weighed just one pound more, I might not fit. It's a perfect time to be claustrophobic...

Step after step I kept thinking, what possessed me to not buy water? Clearly, I was a bit of a moron. Step after step I kept thinking, what if I die right here in this spot? How would someone even get to me? Step after step, I looked at the SOS call button and thought, why am I not pressing this?

When I finally got to the top, I forgot all about my dehydration and exhaustion. The sight was spectacular. I heard a woman cry, "Roma e bella..." and I thought to myself, "Roma e molto bella." It was definitely worth the near death experience.

After taking a million pictures and trying to take in all I could, I realized that I was still molto dehydrated and still felt like I was going to die... and oh wait, I still have to make it down.

Luckily, half way down there was a water fountain, a bar, a gift shop, and a place to sit and chill for a moment... Remembering I still had class, I decided to keep going. :)

When I got to the bottom, I walked around an outdoor market in Pratti, which is where I live, and also the neighborhood surrounding the Vatican. I found the Italian version of the evil eye, and decided to treat myself. I bought a Murano glass bracelet, with Italian evil eyes... sort of. Then, I hopped on a bus and made my way to school. I even had time to grab a sandwich at our deli. I ordered completely in Italian!

I felt so accomplished! I couldn't wait to tell Christiano about everything. When I arrived and told him, he bashfully told me that he himself had not yet climbed to the top of the capella. A Roman! This had made me feel that much more accomplished!

Class was a great time. We discussed the ire verbs, which included festiggire, to party. It's an inside joke. We also taught Christiano the difference between Party and Partaaay, as well as how to "raise the roof." haha

After class, you would think I would go home and nap. I had a long day. No, not me! It was only 3pm. I had the whole evening ahead of me. And so, I made my way to Piazza del Popolo with the intent of sketching a piazza for my sketchbook drawing class. It wasn't moving me though. So, I began to make my way down Via Del Corso... Roma's equivalent of 5th Avenue. Maybe I would find a piazza further down.

I found a Piazza all right. I walked all the way to Piazza Venezia! This is a very far walk. Most people would take two metros to get there, or at least some strange bus. When I got there, I was blown away. Vittorino is simply magnifico! The great white steps with its grand statues is truely a sight to behold, and so in the spirit of the day, I began to climb all the way up these grand steps.

When I had made it to the top, you'd think I would be satisfied. Most people were. They stopped at the Cafeteria... which in Italy is apparently mainly just alcohol... and enjoyed the view. You could see San Pietro, the Coloseum was close by, the Roman Forum, and many other famous sights. I wanted to continue. I walked through the museo, which was in Italian, but I understood that it had to do with the Risorgimento, and then decided to buy a ticket and go all the way.

I took an elevator to the top of Vittorino. Once again, I had found myself on top of the world. How can one be expected to be bothered with class and homework when the world is our classroom and there is so much right at our fingertips! I felt like a bird. "Roma e bella... Roma e magnifico... Roma e perfeto..." I found myself thinking this all in Italian. The English translation would simply not do. It was breath-taking.

I took my time up there, and really just sat and enjoyed the view. It was spectacular. Don't worry, I took a million pictures.

*** PS - I put 200 of the 300 pictures I took up on facebook today, instead of waiting for Sunday. I'm splitting this week up into two parts... maybe three... we'll see how much I see.***

When I had finally made peace with leaving, remembering I can still come back... and will, I began my descent. Though I could have taken numerous ways home or at least to Piazza del Popolo, I decided to walk. I felt like I was on a cloud floating above Roma.

On the way back, a painting caught my eye and I stopped in a gallery to check out the exhibit. It was the Ottaviani exhibit. He's a sculpter, but it was his paintings that I found appealing.

Before going home, I even stopped at the supermarket. When I got home, I made made dinner. The menu was as follows; chicken, mashed potatoes, and spinach with tomatoe and onion salad in a homeade balsamic vinigrette. Yummm...

And now... just after 11:30pm, I begin my school work for tomorrow. :)

What a fantastic day...

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Back Home...

2009-09-22T17:34:00.004-04:00

It's always wonderful to hear from back home. It's even better when it's good news!

I want to send out all my love and best regards to Aunt Leslie today, and new mom and dad, Marina and Eric. Mazel Tov! May she grow up to be be as beautiful as all of you. ;)

It's interesting to see how things progress back home. It's almost as if I've stepped outside of the bubble, and I'm watching from outside... but not quite. I'm still emotionally invested, but I get an outside perspective on things. It's interesting...

It's also incredible how up-to-date I am kept on what's going on back home. Thank you to everyone keeping me in the loop. Glad to know you're still thinking of me, and still confide in me... even over 4,000 miles away.

I really enjoy the facebook messages and chats... even when they freeze... and the occasional skype... even when it freezes... and especially the texts and phone calls. It really makes me feel loved, and really makes me appreciate you all that much more. Thanks for making the effort.

My seeeeeee-ster, Blanche, is coming this weekend! I'm super excited! We're going to Sicily!

Sending all my love... xoxo

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Stronger than Yesterday

2009-09-21T19:53:00.003-04:00

Yes. I'm quoting Brittney Spears...

They say that it is the hard times that really test who a person is, and make them who they become.

Throughout my time in Roma, I have experienced highs and lows. No day has gone without a low though. Still, as every situation passes me by, I pick myself back up again and hope for the best. I look for the silver lining. At worst, I decide, "Tomorrow is a new day."

"Tomorrow is a new day" has become my sort of slogan here, because it seems that every day I find myself uttering those words. How many times can a person be knocked down and still get back up? It isn't even about Roma anymore. It's just my life. Everything I attempt to do, goes wrong. Who jinxed me? In the words of my dear friend Leslie, "May you die a slow painful death due to gonnarhea and clamidhea."

Today, I got a hello passed on to me from someone back home. They met my dad, though not for the first time, and said, "Roxanne is a very strong woman." I knew exactly what the person was referring to, but he specifically made it vague... After all, he was talking to my dad. ;)

As I thought about that statement, I thought... I am strong. I deal with a lot of shit, and I DO keep going. I get back up. Even when I physically get knocked down in the middle of a Roman street, and I'm all by myself, and no one even asks in Italian if I'm ok... I get up. I dust the dirt off, and I march on. What else can I do? I have to keep going, and so... I do.

And so, as each day brings more unpleasant experiences... along with all the wonderful sights I see... I have to remember... in the words of Brittney... "Now, I'm stronger than yesterday."

... On a lighter note, I finally got my Jew fix of lox and... get this... PHILADELPHIA cream cheese with tomato and onion, and I nearly jizzed in my pants. (Everyone catch that reference? haha) It was fastastico! E buonissismo! E Perfeto!

We also had a wine tasting at school. They taught us all about different types of wine, how to understand them, how to mix them with food, and of coarse how to drink them. Nothing like going to school and having your professors get you buzzed. PS - There's a professor that everyone keeps saying looks like Johnny Depth and today I gave in. He really does look like Johnny Depth.

So in the words of the Italians, "Cin Cin," and remember, "Stronger than yesterday!"

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Life Lessons

2009-09-20T19:23:00.005-04:00

1. Do not rely on other people. Take care of yourself, and always be prepared.

2. Sometimes, people say things that are true at the wrong time. Pay attention. Put it in the back of your head, and process it later. Don't just throw it out though.

3. Mashed potatoes and a nap is always a good idea.

4. Chinese food in Rome is not so good, but it is a good time if shared with the right person.

5. Often times, just talking to a friend is exactly what you need.

6. You cannot go to the Trevi fountain enough times!

7. My balcony is awesome... That's all. lol

8. No matter how many times you get knocked off that horse, you have to get up and keep going.

9. A glass of wine with dinner always makes it an occasion.

10. Gelatto is still fantastic and always will be.

Turning Italian...

2009-09-19T18:26:00.003-04:00

Today I was told I'm turning into an Italian. haha

Let me explain...

Breakfast - Pizza
Lunch - Gelatto
Dinner - Pasta

For those who don't know, this is a typical Italian day. haha

The day began, of coarse, with some frustration and confusion as to what to do. Eventually, I decided to go along with Amber and Brittney on their adventure. Danesha also joined us. The plan was to find some bargain shopping... not so easy in Italy.

We jumped on the metro, and then took a bus for about half an hour to really... who knows where... The stop was called Pioggio Verde. It was pretty abandoned. Though they were building stuff, it was basically high ways, and abandoned warehouses, and trash. After walking through this neighborhood a while, we found our mall! Sure enough, we didn't find much in the mall. haha

And so, after about an hour of excursion, we decided to head to our favorite Vittorio Emanule and go to the oldest gelatto place in all of Europe... again! lol After the deliciousness, we went to our next bargain stop in the same neighborhood. This is considered the "Ethnic" neighborhood of Italy, and so cheap deals are on every corner. We found this place called MAS. It was pretty awesome. 10 Euro boots! I will definitely be going back!

Afterwards, we came home and I took a quick nap before dinner. E buonisimo! It's delicious! It really was... Mmmm. After dinner, we headed over to the Trevi fountain to hang out... because well... we can! haha

On the subway back, some Americans mistaked us for Italian girls. They hit on us, and as the Italian bad ass chiks do, we walked right by without paying any attention... To which they responded, "They must be Italian. That's so hot!" lol

The metro was filled with a bunch of, what we believed to be Dutch, senior citizens having a good old time. At 10:30pm, as we were heading home to bed, they were just heading out! They were having such a great time. G-d bless them! I hope I can be them one day!

When we got home, I stopped by the guys room for a quick chat about tomorrow.

Now, at 12:40am, I'm in the process of doing laundry... in the bath tub.
Yup... in the bath tub... Wish me luck!

Buona Notte!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Shana Tova Amici!!!

2009-09-18T20:14:00.003-04:00

Let me just preface by saying... It's Rosh Hashanah. It's a little past 2am. I'm about a bottle in. There's a 90's dance party going on in my head... phones... headphones... and Backstreet Boys, N'Sync, Britteny Spears, Ace of Base, La Bouche, Culture Beat, Scatman, Haddaway, Acqua, and many others are all in attendance. Fucking FANTASTIC!!!

"When I woke up late in the morning light and the day had just begun, I opened up and eyes and thought... oh what a morning. It's not a day for working... It's a day for catching tan, and lyin on the beach and having fun..." UNFORTUNATELY... bed seemed to be a better option, and so I let the guys go on without me.

When I woke up later... I decided to be a total bum and do nothing. haha Eventually, one of the guys called me back, and we headed to school... on our day off. On the way, this was around 6-7pm, we decided to have a celebratory Rosh Hashanah Panino.

As we ate our panino, I expressed my recent heartache and homesickness. So then, Ilya reminded me of the three stages we were suppose to experience.

Stage 1 - The Honeymoon Period: How cool is this? I'm in Italy!
Stage 2 - Homesickness: F*$K this. I hate this. I want to go home.
Stage 3: Acceptance and inevitably becoming comfortable and situated.

And so, in honor of the new year, I decided I would force myself into stage 3 now! I'm here. May as well make the best of this already. No reason to wait. After all, "It's a beautiful life! Oooooo"

After our panini and my new found positive attitude, me and my fellow Jew friend eventually made it to school only to discover that on fridays they close at 10pm, rather than 12am. OK... game on! "I'm a barbie girl, in the barbie world." And my sculpture project reflects that... ok not really. lol But, I did learn how to make real caffe, the equivalent of our espresso, using those Italian thing-a-ma-bobbers. =)

Anyway, back to my project... I finished what I had sketched. Pictures to come. "Imagination, life is your creation." ;) Still, needs something though. I was quite proud of myself! It's "larger than life." haha

"Hit me baby one more time!" Another shot of espresso... I think I had 4-5. Deeelicious!

"What is love?" Gelatto is love, and that's what had on the way home. "Ya ya ya coco jambo!" It was that good! Vorrei uno Cioccolatto, fragole, e limone gelatto. I'd like a chocolate, strawberry, and lemon gelatto. Mmmmm....

When I got home, I decided I wasn't quite ready for the night to end. I mean it is Rosh Hashanah, right? You gotta bring in the new year right. ;)

And so... I pulled out a bottle of wine, I tuned into facebook and youtube and continued my night.

Shana Tova Everyone! Le'chaim!
May this year be filled with good health, wealth, love, happiness, and success!
May it be as sweet and delicious as my gelatto! "Sweet dreams are made of this!"

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

From Sunrise to Sunset, But Not Quite til the Next Morning...

2009-09-17T22:19:00.003-04:00

By 8:30am, I was already at the Colosseum this morning. This was the point of interest for our on-site drawing class today. We learned about point perspective today, and then sat and sketched the arch of constantine for the next 3.5 hours in the hot sun.

When we finally finished, we headed back to school... but not before stopping at that new favorite deli for a turkey sandwich. I had Italian class next, and today we had our first quiz. I was the first to finish, so I suppose I did well.

After Italian, I went straight to my Inside Italian Design Class. The first hour was me falling in and out of sleep. The second hour, I finally mastered my doodle of the arch of constantine... the one I was struggling with all morning. Before our last hour, we were given a coffee break, and I could finally get a second wind. Though this class is very interesting, I don't care anymore about fascism, their art, architecture, or history. =)

After class was finally over at 6:30pm, I waited for the bus to go home. I didn't feel like walking to the metro stop. A little Indian nun stopped me and asked me something. Though all I could say was, "non capisco... scusi," she responded with a smile. Then she asked, "Di dove sei?" That means, where are you from? I KNOW THAT! We learned it in Italian. And so, I proudly responded, "Sono Americana, di Philadelphia. Sono una studentessa a Roma." I am American. I'm from Philadelphia. I am a student in Rome. I was so proud of myself, and she could see it, and so she responded, "bravi!"

When the bus finally came, I met up with some other Temple students who has caught the bus at a different stop. We even made plans for dinner! Yay... My original plans for dinner had fallen through. Of coarse, by the time I got off the bus, the plans had fallen through. And so, I decided to go to the supermarkato to pick up some food to make MYSELF dinner...

There, I ran into some of the guys and we decided to do dinner together. I promised to make salad, and they made Shrimp Scampi, and chicken noodle soup. It was pretty delicious. =)

Just as dinner ended, I got confirmation that the 6th trip I attempted to plan, had fallen through. Just my luck... And so, I decided that for the first time in Roma, I would go out.

The plan was to go to a discoteca. Since I was so excited about it though, of coarse, after walking for a good half hour, if not more, we came to the door of a closed establishment. And so... we ended up at the one place I didn't want to go to. It's called, "The Drunken Ship." It's an American bar in Cambo di Fiore. Filled with study abroad students and tourists alike, it has a feel of a typical American pub and a frat house combined.

I attempted to make the best out of my experience. I had dragged my roommate Amber out. She too hadn't been out yet, so the two of us took a shot, and found a place to sit down. Sure enough, not long after we found our places, a guy approached us claiming that I had taken his seat. I stood up, not in the mood to deal with any drama. Apparently, he was from Chicago. His name was Bill, and he was studying not far from Venice. He was just in Rome for the week. We continued to chat throughout the night. He even bought all the ladies of the group roses. Before the night was over, most of the girls got hit on, I was proposed to, and a fight almost broke out with our guys and some dudes from California.

When the bar finally closed, most of us were still in the mood to party. We had met some Italians... well we thought they were... they turned out to be Greeks, who said they'd take us to a discoteca. And so, we left the Drunken Ship, and made our way to Anima, a lounge type place. After a little convincing, he got us all in. We had just enough time to pee, when the music shut off.

At this point, most people went home. Some of us wanted to continue though. I was one of them. It was my first night out in Rome, and I was butt sober, and have yet to dance at all! And so, I wanted to continue. Of coarse... my luck... at the last moment, the guys I was wish chickened out. They didn't want to go with John-Luca and Tony to Pyramidi to continue clubbing til 5-6-7am.

And so the night, ended kind of flat... just as my week. Tomorrow, we're trying to go to the beach. We'll see what happens. Tomorrow night is the beginning of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year... hopefully my luck will change, and everything will be only wonderful in the year to come for me and all those around me here, and back home especially.

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

The sun will come out tomorrow... hope

2009-09-16T17:32:00.005-04:00

Today was pretty much a total crap shoot. Let's just scratch it, and hope tomorrow is a better day. As they say, the sun will come out tomorrow... hopefully!

Still, it's nice to know there's at least one person back home who still loves me, and who I can depend on. You know who you are. Thank you for being you. ;)

"I'm not living vicariously through you. I'm living vicariously with you... No, on second thought, I'm living vicariously in you! haha" I love it!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Mussolini's a Pole Dancer and I'm a Trash Picker :)

2009-09-15T17:10:00.003-04:00

Today was quite full and eventful. I left the apartment at 7:30am... Yes, while you were just thinking about bed, I was up and out the door. On my way to school, I stopped at my favorite bar for my morning caffe latte and chocolate deliciousness. (This is how Italians do breakfast... when in Rome... lol) No more dirty looks! They've begun to recognize me. :)

As I made it to my sculpture class, our professor, Roberto, was making a pot of espresso. What they hey? You can't beat FREE deliciousness! lol... What I didn't know was that he had also bought some new bag of espresso and insisted we had a cup of the fresh stuff. That makes 3 cups, and it wasn't even 9am. I was definitely ready to start my day.

I trashed all my previous sketches, and began to work with a different idea. Any thoughts? Obviously, I looked to my favorite Moulin Rouge for inspiration. I'm using my favorite quote. "The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love, and be loved in return." What I thought would be a piece of cake turned into a long tedious process. I wanted to write out the quote in wire. Then, I would configure it with another object or symbol of sorts to create shadows with the light source. Hours later, I was only done half of the phrase. I had to nail a board to my work station. Then, I had to write out each word on the board. Next, I had to put nails along the words in the proper places to to then wrap the wire around it. If only I knew, this would be so much work! Still, I was determined to make it work.

After sculpture class, I had Italian with Christiano. Today, we learned how to use avere. Ho fame. I'm hungry... and boy was I! I didn't have a chance to grab a sandwich in between classes because I had to print my paper, and the computer lab was full.

Right after Italian, I darted downstairs for my design class. We were going on a field trip today instead of Thursday to foro italico. This used to be foro mussolini. Apparently, his exercise equipment included a pole... to which my teacher insisted he must of been practicing for his night job. lol She even mentioned potential lap dances. haha It was fantastico!

After design class, I RAN to the deli with a friend to get a sandwich. I've been hearing rumors of this deli, but have yet to go to it. I was told they have other cold cuts... OTHER than ham. Though the prosciutto and martidella are super yummy, I cannot eat any more! So finally, I made my way to this deli and ordered a TURKEY sandwich! It was magical! And since they know us Temple students pretty well, they even have condiments. Italians don't do condiments... :/ I was in heaven... a turkey sandwich with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, AND mustard. Bravissimo!

After the magical sandwich, I headed back to the caves of the studio and worked some more on my sculpture project. I was determined to at least finish the writing portion of it... and so, I did!

At 8pm, my sculpture class met again, but this time at Piazza del Popolo. We were on a hunt for supplies. Apparently, every night between 8-9pm, all the fancy stores... couture and all... get rid of their trash, specifically boxes and such that the clothes and other merchandise come in. And so, my fellow classmates and I became trash pickers. Yes, trash pickers... but, we were trash pickers in Roma, and that makes it THAT much classier. haha

By the time we got back to school it was 9pm. I had been at school for over 12 hours. If that's not insanity, I don't know what is. Alright, it may have happened before, but it was insanity then as well. I was originally planning on staying for the Italian movie series that was beginning tonight, but due to inclement weather... well, we'll use that as an excuse anyway... no one showed up but the professor. And so, not to get stranded by myself at 11pm, I left with the other girls at 9pm. :)

And now, it's time for some rest and relaxation. :)

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Roxanne... You don't have to put on that red light.

2009-09-14T17:23:00.003-04:00

"Roxanne... you don't have to put on that red light." Since I was a little girl, this song has been sung to me. Whether it was the first time someone heard my name or just as a greeting, this is what I heard. Then, I always got the follow up which was if this is what I always heard, and whether or not I'm sick of it. I'd always tell people I'm not sick of it, and I love this song. I embrace it... as long as they weren't singing it to reference me as a prostitute.

And so, today I live up to my name. Waking up in a rather bubbly mood, after showering, I decided to put on my jean skirt, and a black top with flip-flops. As someone else mentioned, Mondays in Roma are far more glorious than those back at home. Mondays are the beginning of a new week of adventures and sight seeing. I was looking good and feeling good. :)

Confident and excited to start my day, I strolled outside and to the metro. On my way, I began to notice stares I do not normally get. Though at first I thought it was because I just looked hot, I soon realized... not quite. So I began to notice what various Italian women were wearing. The consensus was pants or long skirts. Uh-oh! I soon realized that in broad day-light, I was the only one wearing a mini skirt, and that people were looking at me as a common street whore, rather than a student on the way to class. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea. Still, I looked good and decided to shrug off the unexpected looks. What did we learn today? Do not wear a short skirt during the day unless you want to get solicited.

On my way to school, I stopped at a bar to get some coffee and a panino. In Italy, you drink coffee in a bar, and alcohol elsewhere. When I got to school refreshed from sleeping in, I went to my one class, which was Italian. "Ciao Christiano!" I said to my teacher. "Ciao Roxanne!" I <3 him... Have I mentioned? Class was absolutely hysterical today. We began to use the essere or to be verb. "Sono Americana." I am American, or I am from America. "Sono una studentessa a Roma." I am a student in Rome. Then all of a sudden, an art grad student who sits in on our class, proudly states. "Non siamo delle rane." We are not frogs. You heard right kids. We are not frogs. No one knew what to do or say, and so we all just burst out laughing. Then, I responded, "Christiano, come sei dici in italiano, 'there must be something in the water.'" To which again, everyone just burst out laughing.

On the way home, I jumped on the bus with some architect majors and we made our way back to the residence. Of coarse, just my luck... the day I wear a skirt and flip flops, we get off the bus and it starts POURING rain. I had an umbrella, but still got completely soaked.

After doing some reading for class, I made my way to the supermarket with some neighbors. I made my famous chicken soup. It was delicious. :)

Later on, and I won't dwell on this... I had some serious home-sickness. Luckily, mom and dad made me feel better. LOVE YOU!!!

In addition, shout out to Arthur for also comforting me and letting me know he cares.
Sempre e per sempre... Always and Forever. :)

Til tomorrow...
Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

I Conquered the Wall!

2009-09-13T15:38:00.002-04:00

Today, I went on an 8.5 hour WALKING tour of the Aurelian Walls that surround Rome. That's about 12 miles. Needless to say, I'm completely exhuasted. Therefore, for the sake of uploading pictures from Week #2, showering, and getting to bed as soon as possible... I have included a link about these walls. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurelian_Walls

If I can walk it, you can read about it. ;)

Birthday shout out to my one and only Konnie... HAPPY 25th BIRTHDAY!!!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

All Roads Lead Back to Rome... Or So We Hope. :)

2009-09-12T16:41:00.003-04:00

Has anyone noticed I use the word "apparently" way too much lately... So apparently, there is this beautiful little beach town just an hour outside of Rome called Santa Marinella. (Thanks for the head's up Jack. It was amazing.) And apparently... both Jack and Yan lived there for a bit, and so I was told to check it out. So, as everyone else made there way to the closer, but more crowded and tourist infested Ostio, Amber and I, made the journey to Santa Marinella.

Oh boy, was it a journey! The original plan was to wake up at the crack of dawn and leave the apartment by 7:30am at the latest. Well... that didn't quite work out. It was a little chilly in the morning, and our beds were just soooo cozy and warm and... we ended up waking up at 8:30am. Still, not bad, if I do say so myself. We were told to jump on the metro and when we get off a line of blue buses would be waiting. So, we jumped on the metro and took it in the opposite direction we're used to only to find a lack of blue buses waiting.

After asking a travel agency that was conveniently enough outside this metro stop where to go, they pointed us in the "right" direction. We found a bus stop! CO.TRAL formatta. Co.tral being the name of the buses, and formata means bus stop. :) Now, all we needed to do was get on the right bus. lol Seems simple enough right. And so, every fifteen minutes we asked the bus driver of the blue buses that passed if they were going to Santa Marinella. Now, keep in mind. I speak about as much Italian as a new-born baby... maybe less. My roommate, Amber, speaks even less than that. Santa Marinella? Santa Marinella? Most of the responses were a simple, no, in an Italian accent of coarse. :)

Finally, a little old woman, g-d bless her, came to sit at the bus stop and I over heard her say Civitavecchia, which happens to be the last stop before Santa Marinella. Again, I began to put together some words and attempted to communicate with this woman who spoke no English. Santa Marinella? "Si,... blah blah blah blah blah," is all I heard. Alright, so we knew we had to follow this woman who so desperately was trying to help us get to our location.

We jumped on the bus and sat just behind her, hoping she would lead us where we wanted to go. An hour or so later, the elderly woman stood up and attempted to get our attention. As we followed her to the front of the bus, it appeared as though she was about to get off. Should we follow? And then, she began to speak with the bus driver. From what I understood, she told him where we were going and to make sure we get off at the right stop. Then, she attempted to tell us the same. What a sweet little old lady?! She was like a little gift sent from up above. :)

When we finally got to our destination, it was breath-taking. This charming little beach town was clean, beautiful, and definitely no tourists. We might have been the only ones. We paid our two euros, and set up shop. The day was made for the beach. It was just hot enough. The sky was a perfect blue, and the water was unreal! It was crystal clear. I went in and it seemed to have some sort of magical healing powers. It was refreshing, and de-stressing, and simply wow. :)

Unfortunately, Amber and I became hungry rather quickly after our long journey, and so, we didn't stay on the beach as long as we had hoped. After lots of swimming, pictures, and some tanning, we began our hunt for food. This seems to be a simple enough concept right? lol Not in Italy around 1:30pm! Ever hear of something called Siesta? Everything shuts down so that store, restaurant, and any other establishment owners can go eat and nap. Meanwhile,. the rest of us are left out in the cold scrounging around for some scraps to ease our starvation.

After finally locating a small place, up a hill, where we could eat... we grabbed a little something, and decided it was time to go. And so, we found ourselves again walking up a hill in the direction of a street we hoped would eventually lead to a bus stop. Of coarse, Amber and I did find a gelatteria on the way. There's nothing like Italian gelatto, and its healthy. It's made with real milk and fruits and deliciousness. haha While at the gelatteria, we asked the lady about our bus stop. Again with our broken language skills, we attempted to communicate our point, and she did as well. She told us about some train that goes to Roma, though that's about as much as we got out of that conversation. :)

We left with friendly good-byes and finally found our Co.tral formatta. Now, it was time to find the right bus. How hard could it be? Weren't they all going back to Roma? lol They do say all roads lead to Roma... The other issue was the route. Even if they do all go back to Roma, how long would it take? We jumped on the first bus that was kind enough to stop, and hoped for the best. I fell asleep, and Amber kept watch.

I awoke to Amber telling me it was time to get off the bus. We had made it! We were back in our beloved Roma. It really is starting to feel like home, or at least a home away from home. We re-enter the city, and it just feels right. We took the metro to our also beloved Cipro stop, and felt quite accomplished. As we got off, I bought a dress from one of the vendors. How ironic... I bought an Italian style dress in Italy that was made in India... go figure. I like it. :)

Before heading back to the apartment, I stopped by the supermarket. I had to give in. We were cracking McDonald's jokes all day. Apparently, it's a big deal over here and we were craving. Since that didn't work out, I decided to go for the next best thing. Extremely over-priced supermarket sushi that tastes like eh... but hey you can't find it anywhere else. Apparently, in Italy they eat Italian food... ONLY. lol

I came back to the apartment, dug in, was pretty un-satisfied, and began to feel home sick. In America, I could have any and every Asian delicacy I could dream of for a reasonable price, at almost any hour of the night... especially if I go to Wegman's. ;)

As friends and family from home comforted me, I decided I needed to get out of the apartment before I blew my brains out. And so, I decided to pay my boys a visit, and give them a pep talk before they went out. It's nice to have somewhere to go in those situations, and I was told that I'm always welcome. I prepped them and dressed them, and sent them on their way. haha

I was almost thinking of going out tonight, until I realized I have to be up at 7am for an 8 hour walking tour... maybe another night.

Just before finishing this blog, I also FINALLY heard from Bff Larry T. haha... And so, here's your shout out. It's about time!

Missing everyone. Don't be a stranger. I keep you all posted with this blog. Keep me posted with what's going on back home. Otherwise, I think you've all forgotten about me.

Kisses from Abroad x0x0

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Not quite Tuscany ;)

2009-09-11T17:40:00.004-04:00

Today, my Rome sketchbook class took a trip to Tuscania. Apparently, that's in Lazio... not Tuscany, as we all thought. This picture-esque little town is about an hour and a half outside of Roma, and is just beautiful.

We began our journey doing my favorite blind lined-contour drawings of the church of San Pietro. I tried to keep an open mind of this technique I so openly despised just one day prior. Surprisingly enough, I even began to appreciate it. As I meticulously followed the lines of this medieval church, I began to notice details one would not normally notice just by looking at it. When you do look at these details though, you begin to really appreciate the design, the effort, and the thought that went into each of these buildings. I even got some compliments from the professors on my work. Yay for me! lol

When we were done at San Pietro, we headed to San Maggiore, another church just down the hill. We did some similar work there, and then headed into the main Piazza for lunch. We ate at this quaint little restaurant that had a fixed menu. We had pasta for the first course, a choice of meats for the second, and a side dish. I had pasta with tomato sauce, tripe, and a salad. It was good, but I have to say some of the meals I've had in our very own residence were much better. ;)

Our last drawing stop was a scenic view of landscapes and churches, along with various medieval buildings. It was reminiscent of Raphael's paintings. It was absolutely unreal. It seemed as though someone had painted it from their imagination, but this picture of perfection was, in fact, the real deal and probably inspiration for many before us. In addition, there was a movie being filmed there. Maybe, I'll become famous. haha... HI MOM! lol

When I got home from my extremely long day of straining my mind and eyes... in the sun... I was completely exhausted, and therefore a bit moody. It finally hit me. Though experiencing things that few have the opportunity to experience, I realized experiencing it without my loved ones can be quite daunting and lonely. And so, I had a moment of crying in my bathroom feeling bad for myself, as no one was answering me on facebook. It felt as though everyone at home had finally forgotten about me.

Just then, one of my boys, from BROWN (fill in shout out to Pat), insisted I come over. The boys were cooking dinner. Plus, I was in need of a hug, and they were there to give it to me. And so, I made my way over. (Ok, shout out to all ya'll... Pat, Joe, Ross, Ilya, and Dustin) Dinner was delicious! They made fresh burgers, gnocchi in a tomato sauce, broccoli, and really good potato and ham soup. Yum, yum! After dinner, I insisted on doing the dishes because they were going out, and I didn't want them to be late. Can you see why they love me so much?

Tomorrow, me and my roommate, Amber, are trying to go to the beach. :)
Should be a great time! Til then...

Signing off,
Ciao bella...

Nothing like on-site learning...

2009-09-10T16:53:00.002-04:00

Today was filled with on-site learning. I began my day with my Rome Sketchbook class, which meets once a week. It's a drawing class that meets at various sites throughout the city each week. We started class at school today to take care of some house-keeping. Then, we proceeded to the art supply store to pick up our sketch books, pencils, and a multitude of other tools. Once we had our supplies, we headed to the near-by Piazza del Popolo for a lesson in blind and not blind lined contour drawings. Once the concept was explained, it was time for us to try it. :)

I didn't really like lined contour drawings, blind or not. It made me feel vulnurable. It made me feel insecure, unsure, uncomfortable, and very self-conscious. Others found it to be "liberating" and "freeing" and who knows what else? I don't know what kind of wine they were drinking, but maybe I should've had some before class.

When class was over, I headed to the open-air market and attempted to order a panino with martidella, and some sort of formaggio, cheese. I brought it back to school, and dug in. It was delicious! Mmm... Mmm... good. :)

After lunch, was Italian class with Christiano. No words, just love. <3

Next, I had my Inside Italian Design class, and since it was thursday, a field trip was in order. And so, today, we jumped on tram 19 and headed to Quartiere Coppede. This little neighborhood was designed by famous architect Gino Coppede during the time of Stile Floreale. It was built between 1913-1927, and it is simply remarkable. In the main Piazza Mincio, is the famous frog fountatin, which was a direct influence of the turtle fountain that is in the Jewish Ghetto in Rome. Though many styles were borrowed from various time periods and artists, Coppede has his own decorative style.

Villini delle Fate, or the Fairy House, impresses everyone who walks through the grand enterance of the neighborhood. Though now a richer neighborhood with embassies of all sorts, it was originally created for the middle class of Rome. While we were there, we saw New Zealand's embassy, as well as Russia's embassy, which was guarded with barbed wire, unlike the others. It was a really interesting trip to make. It really showed us how varied and diverse Rome can be, as most of us felt that we had left our precious city.

To get home, we had to take a crowded bus, and then our beloved metro. Though quite the adventure, we made it out just fine. For dinner, I made veal again, but this time in a tomatoe-garlic red sauce. I also made some boxed mashed potatoes. Yep! You heard right. I made boxed mashed potatoes. Though, I've never made this before, it came out just as I remember it... not quite the real thing. Apparently Roman supermarkets don't carry potatoes...

Just part of what makes Roma unique I suppose... Now if only i cold get my hands on some sushi, or maybe some pho? Anyone want to bring me some? haha

Anyway, I'm off to bed. I have a class trip to Toscania tomorrow, not to be confused with Tuscany. Apparently, they are two different places. ;)

Signing off,
Ciao bella...

Feelin kind of bleh...

2009-09-09T13:16:00.003-04:00

Today was a pretty uneventful day. I almost feel badly about it. I let myself sleep in because I wasn't feeling well. I went to my one class, which was only an hour long. Then, I grabbed a caffe latte with some friends at the gallery terrace next door. Then, I went home. I did do my homework. I guess that should count for something. It's around 7pm now, so I suppose I'll make dinner soon. I could've seen and done so much. I just don't have the energy though. Hopefully tomorrow I'll feel better. Moments like this make me wish my family and friends were here to tend to me. lol Yes, I said tend. Did I mention I'm not feeling well?

Anyone want to fly to Rome and make me a cup of tea?

Signing off,
Ciao bella...

I Promised I'd Chill Out, and So I Did...

2009-09-08T14:23:00.004-04:00

The past seven days have been absolutely insane. I've seen and done so much. Basically, I've completely exhausted myself, and so today I promised I would take it easy. The plan was class, make dinner, homework, and bed. :)

I began my morning with the yummiest cappuccino and chocolate pastry. It was just what I needed to get my morning going... well almost. As I walked into the first day of my sculpture class, myself, as well as the other students were greeted by espresso the professor had made. His name is Roberto. As he began to talk about the class, I realized this wasn't quite what I had expected. It was almost more of a shop class, where as I thought it was more easy mediums that I've used before such as; clay, paper, ect...

Our first project was based on lines and light. The assignment is to create a piece using various mediums such as wire, and then using a light source create a linear shadow design of some sort. Though seemingly simple enough, I realized it was going to be much more if I wanted to do well. Before beginning our project, Roberto took us to a gallery around the corner for some inspiration. Though we were not allowed to take pictures, I assure you it was spectacular. The detail of the various plaster and marble sculptures was impeccable. What made it even better was the cafe on the terrace overlooking our school building. It was such a cute, little roof top hide-away.

When we got back to class, Roberto gave a short demonstration. Then, we set up our stations, and began to work on our projects. I began by making a wire heart. Then, I grabbed some nails, and drilled it into my wall. I had never used a drill before... No one told me I wasn't suppose to touch the nail after I had drilled it. I burned myself. :( Nothing like a war wound from Roma. It wouldn't be as special in a sculpture class in Philadelphia. Now, I have something to remind me of my trip forever... every time I look at my scarred finger. lol

As I played with my wires, I came up with a somewhat interesting concept. One hearts, two hearts, three hearts... surrounded by a fence... under lock and key... symbolizing a protected heart, that takes much time, patience, and energy to get into. I really liked what I had come up with. I still have to figure out how to make it happen, as well as how to make it look interesting in regards to the project with the light source and shadows. I still have some time though. He wants us to sketch ideas and such in a notebook/sketchbook to see our progress, so I plan on playing around with it this week.

After a short facebook break, it was time for Italian. I really do enjoy Christiano. He's so comical. Plus, he makes every little achievement seem so great. Brava! Bravissima! He tells us.

After Italian, I had my Inside Italian Design Class. Though I had originally thought this was a fashion design class, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it is much more. It is Italian design in general. This includes objects, architecture, products, marketing, and a bit of fashion and other things. It seems as though it will be a very interesting class. Although this art history class does intimidate me just a bit, I am sure I will come out a much more cultured and educated individual in regards to many aspects of life. This will surely help me in my career as well. Plus, she only lectures on Tuesdays. Every Thursday, we take a field trip! Also, at the end of October, we take a weekend academic excursion to Milan! I'm very excited for this.

After class I headed over to the art supply store to buy a sketchbook and pencils for my sculpture class. I met some very nice people along the way. Following this, I made my way on the metro back home. Before going home though, I stopped at the supermarket.

Shopping:
1 jar of mayo
2 leaves of crackers
1 salmon patte
5 bags of pasta
1 loaf of bread
4 pieces of veal
3 packs of mozzarella
2 different kinds of deli meats
9 tomatoes
5 nectarines

Total: 20 Euro.. not bad at all for a week's worth of food. :)

Dinner Menu:
Veal in a light garlic sauce
Pasta in a 4 cheese sauce
Marinated Artichokes

So, even though it was a full day, I did relax to some degree.
And now... after reading for class... and maybe a little sketching... bed. :)

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

What seemed like 4 days in 1...

2009-09-07T17:02:00.004-04:00

Today seemed like 4 full days mushed into 1... Only thing was, it wasn't. For the sake of humor, I've split up the blog into 4 days or sections of the 1 day.

Morning (Day 1):
Since class wasn't til 2pm, I decided to wake up early and head to the Pantheon with a friend. We jumped on the metro first thing int he morning, and began our adventure. Along our walk there, we got a little lost and ran into Piazza di Ignazio. In this Piazza was a great church and so we decided to walk in. To our surprise, it was absolutely mind-blowing. The frescas on the ceiling seemed to come alive and almost jump out at you. There was also the illusion of a dome. It was truly a hidden gem and something everyone should see. Good luck though. It's not on most maps.

After the secret church, we headed to the Pantheon. Though also old and beautiful in its own ways, we were almost not as impressed after seeing the previous find. Just kidding... it was awesome! On the walk back, we decided it was absolutely necessary to stop in any and every church since they were all truly a sight to see. Each church, both inside and out, were just stunning. Each has its special charm. Each is covered with paintings and sculptures, and so much more.

Afternoon (Day 2):
Once we got back to school, I headed to the computer lounge to make myself a calendar to plan out the semester of events and travels. Then, I was off to my first class, Italian 1001. My professor's name is Christiano. He is a funny middle-aged Italian man, who laughs at all of us for everything. He is quite animated, and seems to enjoy his job. We enjoyed him too. Our class has many females in it, and so it seemed as though he was flirting with each and every one of us. I know I was blushing. He was quite impressed with the pronunciation of errrre with the rolling rrrrrrrrr. ;)

After class, I made my way towards the Spanish Steps to get my book from the bookstore.

Late Afternoon/Evening (Day 3):
After getting my Italian book, I headed back to the Metro, to the Termini, to get on the other Metro and headed to the Collesum. It was time to go in, and so I did. I even took a tour of it, as well as of the forum. The magestic nature of this colossal structure is continuously overwhelming. I must've taken what seemed like a million pictures.

When we stepped into the forum, it was even more magical. This was the center of Rome. This is where it all began. As I stood between ruins that have been around since the time of Christ, I got chills. Our tour guides Roberto and Anthony told us stories of emperors and rulers. It was all so exciting. Anthony was from New Zealand. He lived in England for 9 years, and then met his fiance while in Rome. She's from Norway. It was such a romantic story. We really enjoyed the tour, though very tiring and long.

Night (Day 4):
After tthe Collesum and Forum, I headed back to school for an open lecture they were offering on Roman politics and culture. Gregory Smith gave it, and I was excited to hear him speak again. I'm so impressed with Temple staff. They really do make the program what it is.

After the lecture, I headed down to Piazza di Republica. From there, we made our way to San Paulo's Church to hear Carmina Burana. It's an opera. Though, I've sang it in choirs before, it has never felt quite as special as it did tonight. It definitly wasn't something everyone will get to experience, and I'm glad that I did. Bellisimo!

And now... it's time for bed. I'm exhausted, and I have class at 8:30am!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Out of the city to what felt like the top of the world...

2009-09-06T15:12:00.005-04:00

Today Temple organized an excursion to Umbrio, which is a region just outside of Roma. We met at 8am at Piazza di Eroi, just outside our residence and headed to a little medieval hill top town called Todi. Two hours later we arrived... well almost.

They parked the bus and left us to walk the rest of the way. After hiking up what seemed to be a million steps, we entered the town of Todi. We began by visiting their Piazza del Popolo, and taking pictures of the wonderful views. They were simply breath-taking. In Piazza del Popolo, there is a theater, as well as a Gothic cathedral filled with frescas. Because it was a sunday, church was in session, so we quickly and quietly made our way through, trying not to disturb the congregation.

After having a morning cappuccino and cornetta, we began to explore the back streets. This quaint little town was filled with little shops and charming back alleys that one could walk around in all day. As we didn't have much time, we decided to ration our time and visit a church we saw on our way up. It was called San Fortunato. It was beautiful. Every time I enter one of these buildings, I can't help but be in awe. How does one even begin to build something like this?

Just before we were about to leave, we found out that if you paid 1.50 Euros, you could climb to the top of the church where the bells are, and get a 360 degree view of the town. Obviously, this seemed worthwhile, and so we did. "153 unavoidable steps" That's what the advertisement said. With each step up the narrow path to the top of the church, I got more and more nervous, as well as more and more tired. My legs were burning. Would I even make it to the top before having a claustrophobic panic attack?

Yes! I did, and boy was the view worth it. It was not just a view of the town, but what seemed like the whole world. It was one of the most incredible views I have ever seen. The journey was definitely worth it. Still, before we knew it, it was time to head back to the buses.

Now riddle me this... Why is it that in the middle of a medieval church, in the heart of Italy's countryside, do I get FULL service, but back home... in Philadelphia, in my dorm room I don't?

Our next stop was the manner of Titignano. Waiting for us was more breath-taking views and a 15 coarse meal. Yes, you heard right... a 15 coarse meal. It was delicious! It was a great bonding experience for everyone, especially since the wine never stopped flowing. ;)

Today was a special day. It was great to get out of the city, and have a relaxing day with everyone. Tomorrow we start classes. I'm excited! (That wasn't sarcastic. I actually am... Yes I know I'm a dork. Deal with it.) Maybe I'll hit up the Pantheon before class. We'll see. Til tomorrow...

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Only in Roma...

2009-09-05T11:23:00.005-04:00

Early morning was filled with paper work at school. This included taking care of legal documents, and getting a cell phone. You can now all reach me, as long as I'm in Italy, and not abroad. It's free for me to recieve calls and text messages. The number is 011 39 335 764 1405.

After the errands were done, it was time to go explore the city. So, we got on the metro and headed to Villa Borghese. Only in Roma can you hear such talented subway musicians. A couple of young kids were trying to make some money. It was wonderful! Bessame Mucho... Bambaleo... all my favorites. One boy played the accordian, and the other two played percussion. There's nothing like live music.

A friend and I got to Villa Borghese, and began to explore. It's Rome's biggest park. Beautiful trees and flowers, sculptures, hidden cafes, museums, and even a zoo make this something truely special. As we wondered around and took pictures, we ran into a lake. We rented a boat and began to row. It was so nice... so serene, so relaxing, so beautiful. Only in Roma. We then hopped on a little tram and took a tour of this huge park.

When we got off the tram, we continued to explore, and came across possibly the most incredible view in Roma. It was in Villa Borghese near Villa di Medici. It was high up and over-looked the whole city. You could even see the Vatican. There's a very up-scale restaurant that I would like to visit before the end of my stay.

As we continued our adventure out of the park, we ran into Piazza di Spagna. Did you know there are times when it's not overly crowded and mobbed with people? Who knew? When my friend pointed to the little dinky fountain in front of Piazza di Spagna and said, "Is that the fountain everyone talks about where you throw the rock," I was very concerned. I insisted on making a detour and heading immediately over to the Fontana di Trevi. Though this was the third time it had crossed my path, today I finally through a coin in there. Hopefully, I'll be back soon. (Yes, I'm aware that I'll still be in Roma til December. lol)

From there, we continued to the metro station near Piazza Barberini. Once off the Metro at Cipro, our stop, we headed straight for the supermarket. Did you know potatoes are nowhere to be found? I wanted to make mashed potatoes. I'm making dinner. Mmmm... I've been craving animal. So tonight, I make steak... except without mashed potatoes.

Shopping List:
3 bottles of beer
1 bottle of bacardi breeze
2 bottles of wine
2 steaks
1 jar of marinated artichokes
1 jar of marinated esparagus
4 paper towel rolls
1 thing of dish washing soap
1 jar of olive spread
1 loaf of bread

Total: 20Euros... yes that cheap!
Also, there's leftover pasta from last night. :)
Only in Roma.

Signing off to make dinner,
Ciao Bella...

A Selfish Trip

2009-09-04T20:35:00.002-04:00

A little quote from a friend... "life fell apart without u... come home..."

I'm really sorry. Don't think I abandoned you. This is something I needed to do for me. I still love you. I miss you. I'm here for you, even if I'm over 4,000 miles away. I'm sorry. :(

Lions and Tigers and... Russel Crowe! Oh My!

2009-09-04T19:34:00.002-04:00

So today started off quite hectic. After going to bed at 5am, I awoke rather easily to the sound of my alarm at 6am. (It was suppose to go off at 8am.) Being completely oblivious to the time and not comprhending anything going on around me, I attempted to wake Emily, one of my roommates, and started to get ready. Emily went straight back to bed, probably assuming that I was a nut job who needs way too long to get ready. Keep in mind... even if I decided to walk to school, though I have and use my metro pass, I would have to leave at earliest 9-9:15am.

I went to the bathroom. I brushed my teeth and my hair. I washed my face. I got dressed. I made and ate breakfast. I went along with my regular routine. By 7am, I had finally realized what a complete and utter moron Iwas. By 8:15am, I decided to take a little 45 minute "nap," even though it was morning. By 9:15am, I was awoken by both my alarm clock and Amber, my other roommate. Since I was already dressed and ready, I simply threw on my flip flops and ran out the door.

As I got outside of my building and stepped out into the humid, just after rain soaked weather, I managed to slip. Realizing that these flip-flops, though Italian made, could be the death of me today, I decided to go swap them for sneakers. I rushed through the doors and into the elevator, pressed floor 4, and waited. Just a side note, the elevator is about 2x2ft... and its an elevator. Me being both claustraphobic and afraid of elevators, this seemed to be the ideal situation. I'm sure you know what happened next... That's right. I got stuck! The door wouldn't open. The alarm wouldn't sound. I was stuck in a small space, that happened to be an elevator, all by myself. That's it, I remember thinking. This is where they are going to find my body. And to think, I never had a chance to tell all those I care about that I love them one more time. PS - I love you.

By an act ofG-d, the door finally opened, and I ran up four flights of stairs. My mini panic attack was slightly delayed due to the fact that I was now in a rush to change into sneakers, and still make it to the metro stop in time to get to school by 10am.

I made it just fine. Not only was I on time, I was early. Still with my luck, I ended up leaving last. They couldn't configure my internet at first, and then my computer had no cd drive, so I had to wait for the flash drive.

This tiring session had us all ready for lunch and siesta. At 3pm, we made the journey back to school to hear our favorite Gianni, and another professor, Dr. Ponce de Leon, discuss the ins and outs of living in Rome, Roman people, traveling, and even proper ettiquette on how to pick up an Italian guy/girl. It was rather interesting.

They showed us a movie made by Gianni. He interviewed some students and put together a very sentimental movie about studying abroad at Temple Rome. As I began to get a little teary-eyed, I couldn't help but think about this magical journey unfolding before my eyes, and how lucky I was to be experiencing it. I was pumped to not waste any time, and make the most out of this incredible opportunity.

And so, after making dinner... *Menu: A simple, yet very delicous pasta, with bolognase sause, and parmesan to top... we headed down to the Colloseum to take some pictures and stroll around. The Colloseum lit up at night is a sight to behold. It looks even more grand and magestic than it does during the day. It's larger than life. The lack of people creates a more private and intimate setting to experience it in, which helps you appreciate it that much more. "Lions and tigers and..." one girl chanted. "BEARS!" I jumped in to finish her thought. "No, no, no. Russel Crowe filmed here. lol" As we giggled about what went on in the venue before us, we continued to joke. "Lions, and tigers, and Russel Crowe! Oh my!"

After taking a ton of pictures with the Colloseum and Arch of Konstanine, we wanted more. So we decided to head to the Fontana di Trevi, or Trevi Fountain. I remeber it also being quite a sight to behold at night when it is all lit up, and sure enough... it was spectacular! We jumped on the metro to Piazza Barberini, and made our way to the fountain. What could be make this friday night even better? Well, gellato of coarse! We bought some gelatto and strolled around the Trevi Fountain for a bit, and then made our way back home.

Just a typical friday in Rome, I suppose... What'd you do? ;)

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Something to Ponder...

2009-09-03T21:35:00.002-04:00

From a book I'm readin:

"Rome is the place for contemplating the passage of time and the vanity of human wishes. "Within a short period of time you forget everything; and everything forgets you," said Marcus Aurelius."

Insight Guides
Know the City like a Native

Stripping Professors, Dinner, and Wine

2009-09-03T20:16:00.002-04:00

Today began as a very interesting day. After walking to school, because I forgot to pickup my metro card from the boy who bought it for me, we were sent on a walking tour. We broke up into groups of ten, and various professors lead us around the city for the next four hours. Greg Smith lead us around. That's right... for four hours. :)

We went from one side of the city to the other. For those who are unaware, Rome is rather large. Half way through we even jumped on the metro. We saw famous spots such as the Piazza di Popillo, which I visited the other day, the Spanish Steps.. or Piazza di Spagna, the Fontana di Trevi... Trevi Fountain, and much more. As we were shown these very significant, internationally recognized monuments, we also visited those less known. We were told the story of Richard Meyer, a famous Jewish architect who is causing much controversy in this very Catholic city. We went to the "international ghetto" and ate at the world's oldest ice cream parlor, or gelaterria. We passed various ancient ruins and statues, markets, and bonded with our group.

As we ended our adventure, he left us in a quaint little park in a rather "interesting" area. It was up to us to get home. And so... me, my roomate Amber, and some architect majors made our way to the metro and back to the apartments. Amber and I did a lot of bonding today. She's a very cool chik! She's an art history major, but also does photography professionally. That's right! I had a professional photographer taking my picture throughout the city of Rome. Apparently, she's also a house head, so me and her are planning on checking out the scene. She likes all the same music as my favorite Larry T! lol Shout out as promised! Can you believe it? This is the first Thursday since January that I won't be at Benny's. Much love though to everyone back home!! Hope you have fun...

Besides house music, I also discovered that Rome has a very well-respected Jazz scene. AlexanderPlatz and Cassa del Jazz are suppose to be two of the best in Rome and internationally. Another jazz club is only moments from my door in the Pratti neighborhood... which is where I live, only blocks from the Vatican. :)

After a small siesta, it was time to head back to school for a cooking lesson by Mario, another professor at Temple. A brief introduction from the Dean and Mario was up and stripping for the audience. Yes... stripping. A 69 year old professor was cracking jokes about his strip tease, as he changed from his jacket into his cooking gear. He's a well-known artist in Venice and Rome and claims that these two cities are his lovers. His wife knows. No worries. It's cool. ;)

As he introduced us to the wonderful world of cooking Italian, we all sat and listened carefully. He explained the various types of tomatoes, cheeses, breads, olives, and wine... as welll as a few other little tid-bits. Mario taught us how to order coffee properly and how to tip. He explained the ins and outs of olive oil... extra VIRGIN olive oil, as he stressed. lol At the end of the lesson, we were offered a little taste test of the tomato sauce he made with bread, and of coarse nothing would be complete without a little wine. As I went up to get my sample, I meant to pour myself a drop of red wine... just for the experience. Instead, professor grabs a bottle of white wine and pours my glass up with the brim. Did I mention this is a professor? Nothing like Roma... lol

On the way home, I stopped to pick up supplies for tonight's dinner. As I walked in, my other roommate, Emily, informs me that "the boys" came looking for me. They were preparing dinner tonight, and invited me to attend. So I grabbed a bottle of wine, and made my way over.

The boys were offered free pasta and found a red tomato paste. Some of the other girls brought over salad. I made dressing, and we sat down and chowed down. "How is it Rachel Rae," asks one of the guys in my direction. "Excuse me?" Apparently that's his new nick-name for me. I guess last night's dinner made quite the impression. We hung out a bit, and then I headed back to my place. It's nice. We're going to all try to swap off cooking. After all, when in Rome...

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

They Were Pretty Impressed

2009-09-02T18:59:00.002-04:00

Today after orientation at school, we decided to stop at the supermarket to stock up the fridge. As per request of "the boys" I was making dinner tonight. Though I'm not quite sure what they were expecting, apparently I made quite the impression. One of them even said, before the meal had even begun, "Damn, Roxanne... You're awesome. This smells so good. I'm 21, but if I was 30, I'd propose to you right now!" haha...

What can I say? We were walking back from school and everything was closed for siesta... except the supermarket. Once I got in there, I was inspired. There was so much deliciousness, and it was all so fresh and cheap! It looked like the equivalent of a specialty store in Philly, but cheap! The aromas and deals were not something I could pass on.

The Menu:

Homeade Sangria... yum yum!
"Remember, Wine makes every meal an occasion, every table more elegant, every day more civilized. - Andre Simon "

Mozarella Caprese (Mozarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and salt pepper to taste)

Marinated Artchokes

Fresh Baguette

Pasta with mushrooms, carrots, zucchini, in a four cheese sauce... seasoned with garlic, grated tomato, pink wine, olive oil, and again salt and pepper to taste. It was fantastic!

About six people were over for dinner and enjoyed it thoroughly. They even cleaned up! Next time, they said they would buy everything if I agree to cook. Can you say free meal... I mean or cheap labor. haha My one roommate, who didn't even eat, was telling everyone how yummy it looked. I ran into her later in the night, and she was bragging. It was soo sweet. She said she went out to dinner, and it wasn't half as good as mine looked. What can I say? "When in Rome, do as the Romans." I was inspired. Hopefully, the rest of the meals will come out as satisfying.

Extra bonus, I met some neighbors who came over to check on the wonderful smell coming from my kitchen. One guy came in to borrow a grater, and mentioned his Roman friend, so I went to check it out. I mean... I'm in Rome. I'd like to meet some Romans. lol What a wonderful surprise. Just two doors down, a beautiful, dark, hansome, long haired, brown-eyed, shirtless man. He happened to be with a grogeous Italian women... but who knows... maybe it's his sister. ;)

Signing off for now,
Ciao Bella...

Taking It All In

2009-09-01T18:07:00.002-04:00

A smart friend of mine told me, just take it all in. ;)

As I've been taking it all in, I've come up with some guidelines.

1) Learn how to lock and unlock doors... otherwise you will lock yourself in and out of bathrooms, apartments, and then some.

2) 90 degrees + no air-conditioner + straight hair = wasted time and money

3) Alcohol is on every corner and is cheap... and they don't card. Take advantage! lol

4) Learn to love everyone you're studying with. It's been one day, and it has become quite clear that this will be my family for the duration of my time here.

5) Knowing how to use a map is essential if you don't want to get lost in Rome. Carrying it with you is even more important.

6) Italian pizza and gellato are delicious!

7) Must be fit, or be able to fake it. We walk everywhere for long periods of time... both with and without purpose. It's almost the equivalent of me driving aimlessly, except we go exploring the city by foot. Today, we walked to campus... a good 40 minute walk in the beating hot 90 degree sun, and then went exploring around Piazza di Popilo. Even though our wonderful dean got us all metro passes, we ended up making the trek back to the apartments by foot.

8) Do not take flowers from random Indian men. They will make you pay for it.

9) Always have your keys in case you are not with or get separated from roommates.

10) Everyone is in the same boat. Everyone has their times of home sickness and nervousness, but we're all in this together.

11) Living in the Residence is like being on real world. haha

12) Italian men are gorgeous. I like you... do you like me?

13) Rome is beautiful and has much to offer.

Very excited to see what comes next. It's been one day, and I've already met so many cool people, seen so many spectacular sights, and experienced a whole new world.

Signing off missing you all and sending my love,
Ciao Bella...

Ciao l'Italia, Sono Qui!

2009-09-01T06:39:00.002-04:00

Ciao l'Italia, sono qui! Hello Itlay, I'm here! As most of you know, I was pretty devastated yesterday as well as before my flight. I was crying all day and could not stop. Well, I'd like everyone to know that I'm no longer crying. So, therefore, we've already made some progress. As I sat and waited for my plane, which left 2 hours later than it should have, I wondered how the heck I was going to make it through the next three and half months on my own. As I sat next to a mother, father, and son, I couldn't help but miss my own family and wish they too were there with me. The plane ride was mostly spent sleeping and thinking. There was no puzzles, books, or music as planned. Though I didn't sleep the previous night, so sleep was part of the plan.

When we finally arrived, all I could say was Baruch Hashem! Thank G-d! We got through customs and such rather quickly. Even our bags came out without delay. We were greeted by Temple staff and sent on a shuttle to the Residence. I will be taking pictures shortly. (I'm still de-compressing.) The apartment is cute. There's a living room, kitchen, bathroom, balcony, living room, and bedroom. The bedroom is a bit small. It consists a bunk bed and a single bed separated by one foot of carpet. There is no air-conditioner, though it is extremely hot, but there is a small fan.

As I sit and eat my tremenzini that I got at the corner store, and drink my peroni... that I DIDN"T get carded for, I wonder what it will be like. It still seems unreal. Am I really going to be here all by myself for three and a half months? Oy! Temple's throwing us a pizza party at school at 6pm.... its almost 1pm now. Campus is a 40 minute walk. Oh boy, won't that be fun every day. lol Missing everyone terribly! Facebook me!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Arrivederci... Ciao Bella!

2009-08-31T08:28:00.002-04:00

My friends are incredible! Thank you to everyone who made my last day before my trip so special. You all rock, and I'll miss you like crazy! Please keep in touch via facebook and such.

I'm all packed up and ready to go... Wish me luck!

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Take care of yourselves because I worry...

2009-08-30T05:17:00.003-04:00

Everyone knows my friends are my life. I'd do anything and everything for them. Well friends, I'll be away for a bit. Please take care of yourselves. Take care of yourselves because I worry... whether I'm a car ride away or across an ocean. Please make good choices.

Another Good Good Night

2009-08-29T06:37:00.003-04:00

It was another good good night. Following Shabbat dinner, I hit up old-city with the crew and we made it to about four different venues before finally ending our night at our regular after-after-party house spot. haha It's almost 7am, and I think it's time I take a nap. After all, I do have to be up in three hours for a full day of errands, followed of coarse by hopefully another great night.

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

A Good Good Night

2009-08-28T05:46:00.003-04:00

It's nights like tonight that I'm going to miss... Thursday nights. Yes, you heard right. Every Thursday since the beginning of spring semester, I have been going to Benny's. That's right. I haven't missed one single Thursday, and now I will.

Every Thursday, I make my way over to Benny's. I sit and enjoy the music, and conversation of friends and acquaintances alike. It's pretty chill, always a good time. Lately, right after Benny's, we head straight to Studio for after hours. Then, we conclude with breakfast at Tiffany's, or on occasion, such as tonight, Wawa. Sometimes, again, like tonight, we do an after-after party at someone's house. ;)

Though this may seem quite repetitive and monotonous to some, it has become a sort of Thursday night ritual or custom. It's just what I do, and I enjoy it. There's some kind of comfort in routine. I'll surely miss these nights and the people I spend them with. As I promised... Shout out to Denis and his massages haha, and the rest of the WildinOut Crew. ;)

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

One Down, One To Go

2009-08-27T05:18:00.005-04:00

As per request of Best Friend Leslie and Mama Luba, not to be confused with my actual Mama, I finally packed a suitcase. Yes my friends, believe it! Today, Thursday, August 27, 2009 at 5:36am... just four days before my trip... I finally have one suitcase packed. Aren't you proud of me?

Now, if you remember, the whole concept had me quite perplexed. How does one begin to pack for that long? Well, after doing some researching on tips and speaking to some individuals, I took all these methods, combined them, and came up with my own. Everyone did agree that you must start with a list, and so I did. I sat down with mom and made a list of all the things I need to bring with me. Then, I began to attempt this, what seemed impossible, fete.

I figured the first step was to clean my room. How was I going to pack if I couldn't find anything? (Just some background: My room usually looks like a bomb went off. Enter at your own risk.) Although the mess is usually due to a layer of clothes that decorates and conceals my carpet, both clean and dirty, the only logical following step was to do the laundry. After about three loads of laundry and some help from mom... THANKS MOM!... It was time to fold and sort. The task seemed simple. Gather all the clothes I own, fold it neatly, and sort into one of three categories; yes, no, or maybe. Yes, I want to take it to Italy. No, I don't, or maybe.

Ladies, don't freak out. This task isn't nearly as daunting as it seems... mainly because I don't have as much clothes as ANY OF YOU! Gentlemen, yes this does still take a ton of time and patience... regardless the amount of clothing. And so I began to sort ALL the clothes I own. I was oddly logical about my choices. One or two t-shirts to sleep in and bum around in... all others stay home. You know you have to look classy in Rome. Nice jeans went with me. Not as nice jeans stay home. One hoodie for comfort comes to Italy. The rest stay home. Though it took some time, it wasn't as scary as I thought it would be. Though it was a little bittersweet. This is really happening, isn't it...

Once all the clothes was sorted into three categories, I had to make those three into two. Again, I was oddly logical. I tried it on. If it looks fantastic, it goes with me. If it looks anything but, see ya when I get home. It was time to see what fits into my suitcase. I'm allowed to bring two suitcases with me, as well as a carry-on. This worried me a lot. Three and a half months in two suitcases... yeah right. Apparently... one was all I needed for clothes. Though I haven't packed undergarments, shoes, swimming stuff, or toiletries, I was still amazed to learn that all my clothes fit into one suitcase... and no it's not one of those EXTRA EXTRA large ones. Who would've thought? Clearly I don't have enough clothes. Anyone down for some shopping when I get back?

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Ups and Downs

2009-08-26T03:34:00.003-04:00

As I get calls from friends who want to see me before I leave, I wonder what my life will be like away from them for so long. My friends are a part of who I am. Though three and a half months will probably fly by in the blink of an eye, it's easier said than done.

"You'll be fine," everyone says. "You should be excited!" Don't get me wrong... I'm preparing for the trip of a life time. As I dive into the language and the culture, and dream about the trips I will take, the people I will meet, and the adventures I will have, I can't wait! To think that for three and a half months I will finally be able to take a break from my everyday routine, my everyday associates, and the everyday drama that occurs, is simply thrilling! I will finally be able to step outside the bubble that is my life, step out of my comfort zone, and experience something completely new and different. What do the next three and a half months have in store for me? I really don't know, and I can't wait to find out!

Still, I can't help but wonder all the things I will miss while I'm away. I already know I'll be missing the birth of at least two children, maybe even three. I already know I'll be missing a few concerts and plenty of movies coming out that I wanted to see. Though this may seem insignificant, think about it. Where will my friends be when I get back? What will they be doing? Who will they be seeing? How many crazy nights will I have missed? Even something as simple as going for coffee with close friends to bitch and moan about everyday problems will be something I will miss. What if everything will be different when I get back? How will I adapt? Will I be able to adapt? These are all questions I think a lot about these days.

Then, there's family. I cherish my family greatly and will miss them terribly. What will I do without them? How will I manage without my parents checking in at 4am just to say what's up? Obviously, I'm joking about the 4am check-ins. Still, if not my parents, then who? Who will be worried enough about me abroad to even care if I come home? I'll be all alone...

As I sit and ponder what the near future holds, I have no idea... Then again, in the grand scheme of things, I guess no one does. Think about it.

Signing off,
Ciao Bella...

Very Proud of Myself

2009-08-25T02:31:00.002-04:00

Today I had a list of fifteen errands that needed to be accomplished in regards to my trip. You should all be very happy to hear that I finished thirteen of them. Number fourteen might even be accomplished before I head to bed. The list of things I need to do before my trip is getting smaller and smaller, and the number of days is getting shorter and shorter. I'm getting more and more anxious, but meanwhile I'm very proud of myself for all I've done today.

The Countdown Has Begun!

2009-08-24T02:50:00.000-04:00

The countdown has begun. In one week, I will be on a plane. I will be on a plane heading to Italy to study abroad for a full semester. While I'm there I plan on seeing anything and everything I have time to see, meeting as many new people as humanly possible, and having the time of my life.

As I sit here and fantasize about the adventures and shenanigans I will find myself being apart of, I couldn't be more terrified. Three and half months away from family and friends that are part of my every day existence. What's a girl to do?

Maybe I should pack... Yes. You heard right. I'm leaving the country for almost four months and I have yet to even make a packing list, let alone pack even one article of clothing. How does one begin to pack for such a lengthy period of time. I don't know what time I'm waking up in the morning, or even if I'll bother having breakfast. How am I suppose I know what I'll want to wear a week from now, let alone three months from now?

Aside from the rant of panic, confusion, excitement, terror, and wonder that has been rushing through my mind all day and night since my orientation, I still have to figure out how to make this last week one to remember, while still finishing all my errands for my trip. Let the rush begin. The countdown has begun!