one week

Everything I know about Italian culture comes from what I've read in books or seen in movies --- so I don't really know anything about the subject when it comes down to it. Needless to say, I experience a slight sensation of terror whenever I think about the culture shock I'm about to go through. On the other hand, the chance to discover a new culture excites me. I want to be completely immersed in a foreign place - with the people, learning new ideas, eating the food, and experiencing the lifestyle. I'll meet new people, learn, and become more independent, which is why I decided to spend a year studying abroad in the first place.

I have to keep reminding myself of this because...

right now I am freaking out!!!

But I know it will be okay ... there's a reason for all this!

Thanks to everyone who's been helping me out -- my parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, the other people going through the same thing I am, and my friends. I don't know if anyone will read this blog but it will hopefully be a place where I can keep thoughts, pictures, and videos at the least.









Toby sleeping while I'm trying to pack. I'm gonna miss him!