OrienTATed or OriENtated?

Alexander Evers is one of the funniest professors at J-Force (the John Felice Rome Center...JFRC...get it?) He called the ruins of Ancient Greece sexy rubble, while wearing a shirt that said Ouzo..Connecting People. He says Wakey Wakey on the bus and is willing to since songs in English, Italian, and of course his native Dutch. He is where the title of this blog entry comes from, how to pronounce orientated...because that is what I have been doing this weekend. Getting Orientated with J-Force...away from J-Force.

Assisi- Our first day we went to Assisi, the beautiful town set on a hill surrounded by ancient walls where St. Francis of Assisi is obviously from and where he is buried today. His basilica is obviously one of the main reasons to visit Assisi, but I couldn’t help but think how upset “S. Francesco” would be to see this massive structure with gold and jewels in his honor. When he gave up his riches for poverty. It makes you think, but I’m not about to get into a religious debate. I much preferred St. Clare’s basilica, with was more understated and seeing her body was a site. They still had her hair and clothes on display. This woman could have lived a life of leisure, but decided to follow her own heart. And her heart told her the Catholic God. But what I like most is that she didn’t choose the easy route, or the path in her life others wanted her to--she fought to become exactly what she wanted to be, a follower of Jesus and to study with St. Francis. Her fight was to become exactly what she wanted to be. And that is what I have taken to heart. 

This Is Me, Kelly, and Kristen at Assisi :)

Also, as a side note, Assisi is a town plagued by tourists. However, and I am at fault for being a tourist this weekend. I was bused to the town, left the comfort of my air conditioning to walk the streets taking pictures while a local guide tells me all the “important stuff” obviously the cliff note version. A part of me is thankful that there is such an easy way to view these amazing monuments and historical places, but most of the time I just want to apologize to the locals all standing around preparing for the incoming tourists like they are going into battle. It’s a fascinating love-hate relationship that is found in so many cities in Europe and all over the world. The locals’ livelihood is supported by tourism, their economic structure is based on it. But also, the tourists can be so caught up in the photos, shot glasses, and magnets that they forget where they are and how important the city actually is. My final thought on this subject is from Anthony Bourdain, “Be a traveler, not a tourist.” Travel but for God’s sake please cancel the tour, and go it alone, at least occasionally. 

Ravenna- Ah! Ravenna, bellisima! Mi piace Ravenna! What a beautiful, beautiful town. It has a wonderful feel to it. I thought is was the perfect balance between travelers and locals. The town looks live-in while still rich in history. Ravenna is famous for their mosaics from the Byzantine empire. Ravenna was the capital of western Rome when the Empire was split in two, and was an important port also. These mosaics are gorgeous, sparkling blue, black, and gold cubes form pictures on the walls of these basilicas and baptisteries. The mosaics were created around 600 A.D. And here I am in Ravenna, in 2010 and I get to see the exact same mosaics. That’s pretty amazing.

We spent 2 days in Ravenna, but our 2nd day we were unable to make it to the beach because weather just did not cooperate! So the Adriatic must wait for another weekend. So we spent the afternoon back in Ravenna shopping and enjoying living more like a local- getting in touch with our inner Italian. So a coffee bar must be found. Vorrei due cappucini, grazie mille. Prego. I am going to be such a coffee snob when I go home. I know I’ll miss the cappucini and all the wonderful food and wine.

Before dinner on our last night in Ravenna, we had a formal meeting welcoming us to the JFRC. This is where I heard Dr. Suzanne Cavallo speak, she started off talking about the Suffrage movement, followed by proposition 8 being overturned, and even the wars in the Afghanistan and Iraq. What does this all have to do with Roma? It shows that this is the time of our lives, we are working towards a goal, doing whatever it takes to get to Rome and now we are finally seeing it through. She talked about talking our parents into the decision, working at jobs you hated for years just so you could travel. She said, “You have already climbed the mountain, you are in Rome, now it is time to jump off.” She wants us to explore this time, meet new American and Italian friends. I had the opportunity to meet her after dinner and I told her how excited I am to be in her class and discuss all these important issues. She made me so excited to start classes and learn while in Rome. 

San Marino- San Marino reminds me Monaco, a little slice of tax haven for the rich a beautiful. But what makes San Marino special is that they know it’s not Monaco, and I feel like that is humbling to them. It probably doesn’t hurt that San Marino is very old, on a mountain and still has the ancient walls and fortresses used to protect it from enemies. These winding streets to the top of the mountain were breath taking, and the views were astonishing. You could see the sea and just how beautiful Italy/San Marino really is. The police wear bright yellow shirts, and one was a human stoplight, wearing silk gloves no less. San Marino is also where I had one of the best meals...probably in my life. We had beautiful and delicious antipasti, take a look at the bruschetta, oh and fyi- the “che” makes a K sounds..not the “sh” sound.

The primi (pasta) was wonderful followed by chicken and potatos that were melt in your mouth good. The red wine spritzer I had also compliment the flavors. (It was for medicinal purpose, I had a headache!) Which was followed by both the Dolce and Caffe courses. God I love Italy! As I looked out the window at lunch, I couldn’t imagine living in place this beautiful all the time. I hope the people who live there do not grow complacent over where they live and understand it beauty. For Americans who live in the suburbs- it’s hard to fathom living in a city with that much history.

San Marino...bella :)

We ended up leaving San Marino late, we were only there for a day, but we were forced to stop for 2 hours because something was wrong with one of the 4 buses. (See those buses are not always easy and fool-proof) Now I am back in Rome, ready to start classes today, with renewed vigor and even more confidence that this was the best decision I ever made for myself. Monte Mario is my mountain, and I’m jumping off.

Ciao Bella

Finally Photos! And A Great Night in Italy

I finally got my laptop to work! So now get ready for pictures!! 

This is a photo of our dorm! The bunk beds are on the left hand side and behind is the sink :)

It gets a little warm, but it's a great room!

Our second full day in Rome we were rested and ready to go explore! Sarah, Sarah, and I headed to the Vatican because it was so close to us! I have been there before but seeing those great big walls again and St. Peter's Square...I finally began to feel like I'm in Roma!

We ran into a couple other people from JFRC, so we all gathered for a photo!

The whole day was amazing. We are all beginning to live La Dolce Vita :)

We had a large dinner at a place called Capperi, about 100 of us were there! It was a great chance to enjoy a full Italian meal, with antipasti of bruschetta, prima (pasta), and of course the dolce course (the dessert)!

After plenty of vino della casa we took our adventure into the city center! We started at the Spanish Steps, a great meeting spot and it was crowded! But it was so beautiful at night, the crazy tours were gone and real Italians come back into the city center.

                                

The next step was obvious! To the Trevi we go! It's so crazy, you walk down these small streets..then you hear it, the rushing water and you know that you are close! And then you turn a corner and wow! There on the side of a building is one of the most famous fountains in Rome! It's shocking no matter how many times you see it. It was crowded of course, with plenty of tourists and people trying to take your money. But throwing that penny into the fountain makes it all worth it. Don't worry, I'll be back Roma. The Trevi says so.   

Then was one of the highlights of the night! A lovely lady at a snack bar gave us a great deal on a bottle of wine and let us sit and chat until 12:30. She was adorable. There were also all these set shots of Roman Holiday, these lovely behind the scene shots of Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn. She was adorable. So obviously we took a photo together!

The story is not over! It's only 12:30! We are in Rome! So unfortunately (well not really) we took a wrong turn and ended up at the Forum, and the Colosseum! And let me tell you, it was quite a walk! But it was the best night of my life so far. And I know I will have more to come! Seeing it all lit up and knowing the number of Ancient Romans who have walked the same streets, seen gladiator fights, and shopped at the forum. It's one reason why I love Rome and I love Roman History. These structures have stood the test of time, and they are here to remind us of what came before and learn from their mistakes and recognize the impact they had on our lives. ...I know I'm a sap when it comes to history. 

But look at this photo and tell me you are not amazed that this has survived centuries upon centuries upon centuries.

 

Until next time, Ravenna and Assisi up next!

Ciao Bella!

First Full Day..and So much to do!

I am finally on Italian time. And I'm sorry but I will hopefully figure out the wifi for my laptop shortly. Then I will be able to post pictures! Including the amazing gelato I got at the gelatria down the street from us. The girls in front of us asked the guy for his favorite. "Ti piace" I did the same, when means a cone of chocolate, white chocolate...and nutella. My goodness was it good!! Add on the whipped cream and a little wafer and I was in heaven. 

Speaking of food, can I mention that I am in food heaven? Pasta all the time, rich tomatos, and plenty of herbs and olive oil!  I might not look italian, but I sure eat like one! I'm also enjoying my first iced cappucino as I write this. 

Am I making you jealous? I apologize!

Anyways, more to write after finally heading out to the city center and seeing the Spanish Steps. I have my survival Italian class first! I hope I learn a lot!

Anyways, I'm so excited to for Ravenna and Assisi on Saturday! I will make sure to keep you posted!


Ciao Bella

Ciao Roma!

I have landed in Roma! Despite an hour delay in Chicago (of course, it's O'Hare after all) Waiting forever for my bags (they both came over safely!) And finally spending 20 minutes on a shuttle bus waiting to take us to the Rome Center. I am finally here at JFRC :)

I met my roommate she is really nice, her name is Kate. Our room is small but cute, and I'll post pictures as soon as I get around to it.

All I wanted to do once I got here was to drink some water and take a nap. But there is a walking tour around Monte Mario in about an hour and I'll be on that. No rest for the weary I guess!

I'll write more when I have more time. It's going to be hectic during orientation in the next couple days, but I'll keep you posted!


Ciao Bella

A Quick Note on Packing...

If someone could please inform me on how to pack for 3 months and 3 different season that would be wonderful.

I have crap all over my brother's old room with stuff that I feel like I need. But I can't pack only summer stuff because it does get cold there, about 30 degrees. However, I want to be fashionable too. There is a reason why Italy is the fashion capital of the world. So no to the zip off pants (that everyone thinks is the perfect article of clothing for travelers) or crappy wrinkled t-shirts. I'm not backpacking through Europe here. I'm living in Rome for 4 months.

So although it would be awesome to bring all of my fabulous boots and dresses, they will not all fit in my suitcase. I also decided against a winter coat and boots, if I go anywhere that cold I'll buy the necessities. What I need to do is find the correct balance between sundresses and sweaters, t-shirts and dressy clothes, and comfortable shoes and fashionable ones. That is the most difficult part.

I have been slowly making these little decisions over the past week or so. But not one article of clothing has actually made INTO my suitcase yet. I leave for Chicago on Tuesday. Let the freak out begin....

Ciao Bella

It's Not All Excitement Anymore

11 Days until I get in my car with my family and drive to Chicago to catch my flight to Rome. And now I am getting all the same basic questions...

"When do you leave?"

"Are you excited?" or "I bet you are excited!!"

To which I respond,

"August 25th"

"Oh Yes! I can't wait!"

But inside, my head is screaming, "Of course you are excited Megan, but you are just as freaked out!"

I feel like I deserve some nervousness and hesitation at this point. This isn't a quick vacation I'm going on here, this is living in another country for almost 4 months. I feel like I'm starting all over again. I'm starting school all over again. Not knowing where to go or anyone I'm with. And for an introvert like me, that is unnerving.

But isn't that what travel is all about? Going somewhere and not knowing the language, the customs, or anyone that can help you-- but you go anyways?

So yes, sometimes I can't sleep at night and I run downstairs and sit out on the deck looking at the stars thinking, wouldn't it be easier to stay at home?

Of course it would.

But I had the same doubts the week leading up to going to Loyola. And that didn't stop me. It was not always an easy ride these past two years, but it was one of the best decision I have ever made.

I think this will be the next best decision I have ever made.

Screw the hesitation, I'm getting on that plane.

In the words of Eat Pray Love, Attraversiamo!

Yes, let's cross over that big ocean. Roma, here I come.

Ciao bella

Airports...Love em' Hate em'

I know people probably think I'm weird- but I absolutely love airports. Despite the lines, crazy security measures, and more than a few people that are just pissed off- there is something that is exciting for me. All these people either coming or going. The excitement of the people going on vacation is palpable, or just people who can't wait to see their loved ones. Whenever I walk through a concourse, I look at all the gates to see where the flight is going- Kansas City, LA, New York, Phoenix...endless possibilities. I've always wanted to just get to the airport and look up at the departure board and just pick somewhere, anywhere to go, buy a ticket and get on a plane. Especially when I land at home, I'm usually desperate to travel somewhere else.

I'm at Midway Airport in Chicago while I write this, and while I walked to the security checkpoint I was reminded of the opening scene of Love Actually, how it is so nice at the arrivals gate of Heathrow to see all the families reunited again, and the anger they might have been feeling towards each other is gone and they are just happy to be together. Midway doesn't really have that dramatic of an "Arrivals Gate" but there are family saying goodbye and hello right by the security and it's so nice to see that much love- and even makes me excited to go home and know that my family will be at the last door by the baggage claim, like they always are when I fly home from chicago. It's a comfort thing I guess.

Spending the long weekend in Michigan with Abbie was so much fun. We hung out on her boat and saw Eclipse together. we didn't do anything too exciting, but we just enjoy spending time together and we always have a good time. It was also nice to hear about her summer in Rome and all the exciting adventures she went on. It's EXACTLY 1 month until I leave for Rome. And hearing about how it was there was both nerve-wracking and really exciting at the same time. As we were driving from Michigan to Chicago I couldn't believe soon enough I won't be going to Midway, but O'Hare and getting on a 9 to 10 hour flight that will put me in one of the most beautiful cities in one of the most beautiful countries in the world....wow.

1 month and counting....

Ciao

Megan