A week later...

     So last Monday I ventured out to San Francisco for the second time to file for my student visa. And was told I was missing ONE thing so I needed to acquire this ONE thing and return Thursday (the office is open M & Th from 1-3:30...convenient much?). So I did. Skipped class again on Thursday to drive out there. Stood in line for an hour outside before realizing that not only would I make it to the front of the line before 3:30 ( I arrived at 1:30) but I would be late for work. Left. Returned AGAIN yesterday at 1 p.m. sharp and finally reached the window at 2:55 pm. And finally filed for my visa. I get to pick it up May 17th. Just in the nick of time. That is the Monday of the week I leave for home before taking off for Italy. Sheesh way to cut it close Alessandra....But I have to say this. I got the biggest feeling of relief and giddiness as I got in my car. I am really going to Italy this summer. I AM. And now I have to somehow focus on school the next 4 weeks and not let my mind wander to the wonderfulness that is Italia. And pack mentally a thousand times. 

     It is bittersweet. 3 months is a long time to be away. I know it is going to be worth it but I am missing so, so much. I am missing my departments' graduation in which several of my friends are walking, my sister's prom and high school graduation and a friend's wedding. Also, by the time I get back, my sister and a few other close friends will already be at school for the semester and my roommate will be in D.C. for an amazing internship that she worked her butt off to earn. It's bittersweet. Last summer and this coming summer are totally different. Last summer I drove everyday to an office and sat at a computer, planning a big sports event (Senior Olympics). This summer I will be interning somewhere in Italy and omgosh exploring that beautiful country. Completely different experiences. 

     My parents were recently there for a family event and I just can't wait to see all my family. And a couple that is a close friend of the family has been living there for a year and looking at all of their pictures just makes me giddy inside. I can NOT wait. I don't know how I'm going to be able to contain my excitement. I'm going to be jumping up and down in my airplane seat the whole 7 hour flight there (from NY...from LA its 12....sheesh). 

ok ok I am rambling and have far too much school work to do...but AHHH I am SO excited. If you haven't gone to Europe and you want to.....do it. You will NEVER forget it. I promise.