Apartment in Florence!

I'm so happy to say that I have officially signed a lease for an apartment in Florence! I found some amazing people through my program here at CSU IP and a huge apartment for 7 people. 4 girls, 3 boys... If we were all from different countries it would be like a real life Spanish Apartments movie. We decided on a 4 month lease because we may choose later to move on to try new places and possibly live with italian families. I'm just so excited to move in to this massive apartment and have a huge group home. Pictures will follow this next week <3

"Truth"

I have arrived in Florence and I can not begin to describe how I feel. I'm in awe, in shock, in disbelief? None of these terms seem to live up to what I am experiencing internally. For someone who has never left their own small area of Southern California to decide to pack up and move to another country is entirely insane. It has taken me coming here to realize this. However, the truth is that this is exactly what someone like myself needed. A push. Away from comfort and predictability. Allow myself to embrace a better version of myself. This concept is my driving force for the next year of my life. I desire to not only learn about Italy, the culture, the language... I also wish to learn about who I am and what this trip will allow me to accomplish. I hope to uncover a deeper understanding of my purpose.

It all starts with a push.

The time is almost here!

It has been a very exciting week! After an amazing bon voyage party with family and friends I have spent the past week finalizing preparations and packing! It has definitely been a major challenge (how does one pack for a 10 month trip?). The closer it gets the more anxious I am. I have an extremely busy weekend ahead of me and though it is bittersweet to say goodbye for a while, I am so thrilled and excited for my trip. I have many adventures planned but am truly looking forward to just letting life make the decisions for me. I'm not certain when I'll first be able to start posting photos and more blogs but as soon as I get settled I will definitely make that a priority.

To all my friends and family, thank you so much for being so supportive and encouraging. I love you and will see you soon!

Benvenuti!

Buongiorno! Welcome and hello to my blog. On Aug 28th, 2012 I will be leaving for my study abroad program in Florence, Italy. I am so thrilled and even more so knowing I can share my experiences with all of you. My desire for this blog is to show photos and speak of the unique experience of living in another country for the next 10 months. I hope you enjoy!