Well, well, well, another life update!
You read it right! I have officially returned to my beautiful italia with a 6 month student visa. This time I will be studying in the iconic Firenze—Home of il Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, The Statue of David—and now mine, too? It’s incredible to think just how much my life has changed from two weeks ago!
As I write this I’m sitting in the garden just outside my apartment listening to the birds chirp, welcoming the arrival of spring. Each morning begins here. The day gently greets me with cool, fresh air as I breathe deeply. Feet on the earth, birds in the trees, air in my lungs. The cloudy skies of New York have been replaced by the warmth of the Tuscan sun kissing my skin.
My daily interactions are filled with the charm and friendliness of the Italian people and the culture. Perhaps my greatest feat is that I, too, have been mistaken by the Italians themselves as being a native! Until I open my mouth…LOL. Apparently my pronunciation—or perhaps my American accent—is a dead give away. Not to mention a few misspoken words. Apparently there’s more than one word for “bag” in Italian, so just as I thought I could confidently predict what the cashier would offer me at the counter—"una busta”—I learned there’s yet a different word for the same thing: un sacchetto. Oops. And also while we’re at it. In case you’re wondering where on earth the eggs are, I’ll save you ten minutes of time going back and forth around the milk and cheese: they are NOT in the refrigerated section! Quite often eggs can be found in the aisle with coffee or almond milk, sometimes near cereals and granola. Honestly, classic Italian style—each grocery store places them in different sections, just not in the refrigerated area. Take it from me, the americana, and I’ll save you time, confusion, and embarrassment!
My strolls along the streets have led me to stands filled with fresh fruits and vegetables…the vibrant colors look like candy from the earth (and, might I add…for a fraction of the price that I’m used to). My favorite finds have been strawberries, Sicilian oranges, avocado, and obviously the pomodori—NOTHING beats an Italian tomato.
My usual afternoon snack of yogurt was replaced by my favorite chocolate gelato. The creaminess, the richness, the depth of flavor… it’s not an exaggeration to say that each savored bite really is life-changing. No wonder Italians are known for enjoying the simple things…who wouldn’t when you’re amongst some of the world’s best food and scenery! Just yesterday I ate my lunch along the Arno River on a ledge near Ponte Vecchio as I watched people stroll by: students, locals, visitors alike. Some of the world’s greatest historical landmarks have become a part of my…daily norm?
Since I was a little girl, I carried an innate pride for my Italian heritage—just ask any of my friends! It was as instinctive to me as it is to eat. Perhaps it was the Italian charm of my dad—he had an unforgettable twinkle in his eyes—or his grand gestures when he spoke passionately or perhaps the mere fact that my beloved italia always felt like the place I belonged, even before ever visiting. As I sit here in gratitude and reflection, I still can’t believe it I get to call this place my home. At the same time, I couldn’t imagine anything different. Life just fits me here, like a glove.
And while I share my most recent update and the pursuit of my dreams, I remind myself daily that I did not, and could not, do this on my own. For this, I am humbly grateful. And I see it as a responsibility, too. I hope as I share my experiences, you not only get a taste of la dolce vita, but also discover your own inner awakening to answer the call of your dreams. Yes, your dreams are your own inner truth, beckoning you. Following that spark—that’s where the magic happens. This place of true aliveness is the life we were meant to live.
May you have the courage to dream big. Then dream bigger.
May you have the courage to believe in yourself. Then follow your heart.
May you have the courage to discover your inner truth. And then live it.
And may you always remember the magic is, and always has been, in you.