September 8, 2006 Settignano

September 8, 2006 Settignano

Today we went to Settignano, the hill outside of Firenze which is a small town that overlooks the city. It was absolutely breathtaking. Our roommate Liz didn’t go, she’s been ill since we arrived. Here are some photos of the view, and they don’t do it justice. The feeling of peace and “the good life” that comes over one is absolute.

There has been a full moon here, it’s just started to wane, and that has put a magical spin on the city. We’re seeing the city as not quite residents and not quite tourists. We’ve only seen the museums and churches from the outside, and we’ve been to the school, but not had classes. I’m sure it will settle into routine soon, and when we know when our free time is we will be able to take advantage of all that is before us.

Karen is entirely giddy. I’m not sure she’s going to leave in December. Or ever. It’s so nice to see her happy face and hear her laughter each day! And it’s funny, I’ve been hanging around cool teenagers for the last few years and I forget what a big deal it can be to be away from home. Being around another student my age puts me back into that perspective a little more. Many of our classmates are sad and scared and exhausted and overwhelmed because this is their first time in Europe or very far away from home. I’m enjoying seeing people go through life changing experiences because I know they’ll come out the other end better people.

It’s unbelievable to me that it’s been just over 48 hours since we arrived. I’d swear it was a week. Still no phones and no groceries…End day three.

PS, past entries have been edited to include photos. :)