Home Sweet Home – 24.5.2010

I made it home safe and sound after 14 hours in flight and many more hours spent waiting at air ports and in a car to get home. I was exhausted as I sat by the baggage claim waiting for my heavy bags. Then a feeling came over me and I turned my head to the right and there she was with red and white carnations in one hand and a camera in the other. It was my mom. I was then overcome with excitement forgetting about everything else. A few days later it finally sank in that I was home as I drove our charcoal grey Dodge Ram with the windows down wind blowing in my hair singing along to the radio with the rumble of the engine in the background. It is good to be home.

First & Last Day in Paris – 23.5.2010

We took a morning walking tour around the city. Our guide was from New Zealand giving her last tour before she returned home after living here for about a year. She was animated easy to understand and entertaining. We saw Saint Michael’s fountain river, Notre Dame, Opera House, first bridge, Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and a few other touristic sites. She did a good job of giving background explanation and fun facts at each location. King Henry’s Bridge was the first bridge to extend across the river through the island. This one had a funny story our guide related well to what life is like today. The bridge has different faces carved all along the side of it similar to the 100 fountains at Villa D’Este in Tivoli but in bridge form. The funny part was the faces carved along side it were the King’s friends drunk at a party had about the same time. Since they did not have digital cameras or facebook to share with others the hilarious state he found his friends in he had an artist sketch. From those sketches he had a sculpture put it in stone to add to his new bridge so all could see his silly friends. This king was the most loved, yet he had the most assassination attempts, 20 plus. The main reason was because he was not catholic in a mostly Catholic country. I learned so much on our tour it would take up pages, so I will keep it to a few. The Louvre was hard for me to spot without seeing the famous transparent triangles. It was gigantic compared to what I had always imagined. There were of course vendors selling water among other things to the flocks of tourists, but the surprising thing was as we entered on one side I could hear a female opera singer singing a beautiful song. On our way out I found the source, the artist was selling her CD in one of the archway openings. There were a couple different kinds of artist sharing their talent. I thought the violinist was the best. Walking around the whole day was torturous. The sun was extremely hot and there was little shade or green spaces to cool us down. Notre Dame was Beautiful but difficult to see with all the trees on the side. If I had not studied it in school I never would have been able to pick out the flying buttresses. The Eiffel Tower was the last thing we did. We got there in the late afternoon, confused by all the people, activities and lines going on around and under the tower. Eventually we figured out which line was the one to walk up and waited. That is when I got hit by the birds from above for the first time this whole trip to Europe. I laughed so hard I was crying. Further up in the line we realized that the same bird had also gotten my friend, and then I began balling I was laughing so hard. Everyone around us thought we were crazy but I did not care I was completely happy except for the pain in my cheeks. We walked up to the first level. The view through the diagonal metal fencing was amazing. We continued to walk around it and travel up the next flight of stairs in awe of what we were on and looking at. I saw the sun set from the Eiffel tower then rode the elevator down as they turned on the lights for night. It was beyond what I had expected and well worth every minute. I have so many things I want to do here when I come back. Thinking about being home the next day gave me the strength to get all the way back to our Hostel that night.

Paris Holds the Key to My Heart – 22.5.2010

Anastasia, the Disney animated movie scenes and songs were running through my head the whole train ride to Paris. Almost immediately after we arrived the nasty smell of urine invaded my nose. We were staying at the Peace & Love Hostel, not worth the prices we found out as we checked at a bar and preceded up the narrow spiraling stairs five flights to our room at the end of a one person at a time hallway. A three bed bunk bed took up about 80% of the floor area but we had a sink and shower. It was our first night in Paris and I was ready to immerse myself in everything French. Locals filled the small restaurant, Chez Papa, down from our Hostel. Then trying to decode the menu I realized how much Italian I did know, because I could hardly read the menu and figure out what to get. Then the smell of egg filled the air as a waiter brought a man across the room a huge omelet. I was sold I found them on the menu and was able to decipher one that sounded delicious. It was fantastic.

Last Day in London – 22.5.2010

A beautiful day woke us up early. The sun was shining in a blue sky shooting through the tree canopies of the trees in the Kensington Gardens. Suddenly the sound of horses on gravel added to the footsteps we were making as we passed the horse trail. Then we walked along side the lake until we were stopped by the sight of swans and their ducklings, grey fuzzy baby swans following their elegant white mothers. Once we were able to tear ourselves away from them we found the Peter Pan statue. The unexpected sight for me was the garden for Princess Diana with a wonderfully designed fountain. Then we dashed off to Buckingham Palace to get a good place an hour before the changing of the guard. Surprisingly we were not even close to being some of the first people. The gates were about three to four rows deep of people on the side and about six deep at the front gates. Then the monument across the street was surrounded and packed about eight deep. Luckily we found a reasonable spot on the far right side. Shortly after arriving a group in the form of a rectangle marched on to the center followed by a second group. Several minutes later to the sound of trumpets came into sight. It was about what I imagined except for the band. It is definitely a big deal. Then it was time for a quick English hot dog on our way to our last stop in England, Harrods. The hot dogs are very different than American ones. Harrods is one of the most historically important department stores in England. After getting a few last minute souvenirs for the family at Harrods it was back to the Hostel to catch our train to Paris through the English Channel. There was no way to have known we were on it because it was exactly like other trains. We were let down a little bit because we had hoped part of the tunnel would have some transparent parts to see the water we were traveling through.

Tower of London – 21.5.2010

We set off early for the Tower of London on the tube. The location we got off was across the river forcing us to walk through an amazing plaza. This plaza was full of decorated elephant statues similar concept to the cows all over Houston. We became fascinated with them taking a picture of each one. This plaza would have been a perfect precedent study for my last studio project in Orvieto. It had shops assimilated into the buildings, level changes, theater seating space, lawn, trees and most importantly a great view of London Bridge and the Tower of London across the river. We spent about 45-60 minutes experiencing, analyzing, and documenting the spaces. At the end was the London Bridge. We walked across it like crazy tourists snapping pictures left and right. On the other side were the Tower and more elephants to photograph. We took a tour of the tower facilities; the old palace and fortress from a beefeater. They are respected retired military men living in the complex giving tours in full uniform. He was lively and a great story teller. The complex was huge. This is also the location of the crown jewels. Sparkling diamonds glistening in the spot light were unbelievable. The colors of fabric were so rich in purple, reds and gold. Then we went to where they kept prisoners and instruments they used torture people. Lastly we saw the house where two young princes went missing. There are all kinds of rumors about what happened to them. One is that they ran away. Another was the king in line after them had them killed. They were not a threat to the crown because they had already been declared illegitimate. The most interesting evidence is two small boy skeletons were found when some renovations and additions were made. They were 11 and 12 years old, the same age as the two princes when they went missing. Visiting the Tower of London took up most of the afternoon. After some gift shopping we went to see the London Eye. There we ran into a book market under a bridge. It reminded me of Portobello Road from the movie Bed Knobs and Broomsticks. On the other side of the tables piled high with all kinds of books was tons of street performers. We stopped and watched one. A group of guys of different ethnicities break dancing for those of us who wanted to watch. They were okay but one impressed me when he did a move I had never seen before, he spun on his head. I was amazed he could keep spinning himself by how he moved his legs. Off in the background was the London Eye, big round wheel with transparent egg shaped compartments. Our last stop for the day was to see the House of Parliament and Big Ben. For dinner we ate at a restaurant named Texas Embassy. It was based on the fact London had an Embassy for Texas when it was its own country before it joined the United States. The food was no were near real Texas food.

London – 20.5.2010

Today is the big day, London! What a crazy adventure I was not ready for. I had one big backpack on my back and duffel on my left shoulder. Despite all the difficulties that we had we made it to our hostel, Generator. We were too early so we had to leave our bags in the luggage room already bursting at the seams. I did not care I just threw it on the floor and pushed it under a shelf happy to get rid of the load. First stop was lunch at the original Hard Rock Café. A couple of American guys decided they wanted to open up a restaurant that served some good southern American food. Then a famous guitarist became a regular who liked the place so much he donated one of his guitars. Shortly after another sent over his spurring what it has become today and it all began here in London. The food was good well worth the money. Then we went next door to the shop where we got a tour of their vault. Inside were things from Elvis, BB King, the Beatles, Jimmi Hendrix, Madonna and many more. It was fun to see some great instruments and outfits that have changed the music world. Then we walked in the direction of the zoo to help our full tummies. We saw some fun animals. What was better was walking through Hyde Park to get there. It is huge and in a few places you get glimpses of the zoo animals. Then Laura just had to see Blackfriars and Millennium Bridge because they were used in the most recent Harry Potter film. Just on the other side was the Global Theater where we watched one of Shakespeare’s pieces of work, Macbeth. We bought the cheap tickets for the yard not knowing what we got ourselves into. We walked in the great big wooden doors to an open paved area around the small stage where black sheets with holes in them were stretched out forming a tent like in my childhood. They were about neck high. Those holes we found out were for our heads we were to bend over, walk to a spot we wanted and poke our heads through a hole. We took our places as those around us were chatting away enjoying themselves for what an amazing experience we were about to have. Then all of a sudden we heard a ding from a bell and some creepy women dressed in red looking pale and possessed walked in under the black canvas scaring people. Soon the play began. A short hairy fat man came out on the stage stumbling around from his drunkenness all over the stage carrying a metal pale. Then bloody men popped all around us through the same black tent we were in to truly start the play. That is when we realized we, the spectators in the yard, were part of the production. We were the heads (soles) in hell. It took me a little while to get into the play since I had never read Macbeth and it has been a long time since I have read Shakespeare. The actors did a fantastic job of entertaining us for a couple of hours enough to block out most of the pains in our feet and body from our travels. The best part of watching the play for me was experiencing it in a historical and intimate place, especially a play matching the period so closely. Above me the sky replaced the roof. Every so often I would glance up and catch glimpses of the afternoon sky changing to the evening sky. The moon changing places with the sun as time passed. Then Alli’s favorite part was a surprise dance at the end. After they bowed they broke out into song and dance for us. The liveliness helped brighten up our minds by extracting the gruesome aspects of the play. The whole way home we dreaded having to get our bags from the luggage room and carry it up several flights of stairs to the fourth floor. The room was tiny but we had a sink. I was so exhausted I went straight to sleep when my head laid to rest on the pancake thin pillow.

Ancient Stonehenge – 19.5.2010

We took another train as usually because that is the best, cheap, and easiest way to get around here in England. This time our destination was Salisbury were we took a bus out to Stonehenge. Once we got off the train and walked out of the station a Stonehenge bus was waiting outside to take money from tourists waiting to see one of the most significant ancient sites in England. To our excitement it we rode a double-decker bus through the old medieval town of Salisbury out to Stonehenge. You could see the massive stones from miles away with speckles of color dots moving as slow as possible. When we pulled into the parking lot across the road it was plain to see that they were people. We hopped off and got our audio guides and began the circular route around the stones. Walking along under a cloudy sky taking pictures at every possible angle as the tour guide in my ear told me all kinds of history and science behind these amazing stones. It is a remarkable sight that I could never have imagined it correctly. We stopped at another site on the way back called Sarum. It is the location of a fortified castle on a large circular hill flattened at the top with at least twenty foot deep ditches surrounding it acting as a moat. Now only the land formations and some ruins are all that are left. Walking around trying to imagine what it was like in its hay day was difficult because so little was left similar to Herculaneum. The view was spectacular looking down from the highest point of the fortress in the tower on to the remains of an old Cathedral. I have to admit my professor, Carol, popped into my head for a moment because this is the kind of thing she loves. We did not stay too long because we had to catch the next bus back to Salisbury for some good English grub in an adorable medieval pub. Once I was nourished with fish & chips we walked to a historic site for many people in two different countries. That was the Cathedral of Saint Mary. This was the location where the Magna Carta was signed. How amazing we did not even realize it until we entered the gift shop where there were posters of the Magna Carta emphasizing that it was signed here. The courtyard alone was spectacular and of all the courtyards I have seen in Italy this one blows them out of the water. Same as usual we have way more that we want to do before our train leaves. For this reason we did not get to go in the church on account of me and my slight obsession I supposed is one way to put it for Jane Austen. The Mompesson House was just on the other side of the Cathedral’s lawn. This house was used as a set for a good portion of the film Sense & Sensibility with Emma Thompson. Laura and I toured around this house which was used for the House of Mrs. Jennings in London. I could not believe it we were in the movie, in their bedroom. The bed they cried their tears out over those dang men was night before my eyes. Laura and I enjoyed ourselves. This visit only reaffirmed my wishes of going to the Jane Austen evening event.

Bath – 18.5.2010

On a morning train for about an hour and a half I was able to really get a good glimpse of the English country side. It alternated between grass, dirt, clay filled dirt, and neon yellow fields of fennel. Every so often a cottage, ruins, livestock, and rivers with river boat houses would catch my eye. The cities where the train stops were easy to distinguish jam packed with row houses and more modern buildings and amenities. Eventually we arrived in Bath with warmer weather than what we experienced in Ireland. Then we exited the train station out onto a busy street so bright I was squinting with my sunglasses on. We began to ascend to one of the main sites we wanted to see here, the Royal Crescent and Circus. I have longed to see this place since I learned about it and saw pictures in one of my architectural history classes. We walked along the river until we reached a beautiful peaceful church. On the way we stopped for just a few minutes because we have seen churches out the wazoo these past four months and there was so much to see and do here. Stopped at an intersection we noticed a sign for the Victoria Art Gallery. Just below the name were some of the most enticing English words, “Admission free.” The first floor was the most unique exhibit of art that I have ever seen. The walls were filled from baseboards to crown molding of photographs, paintings, drawings and sculptures. A chaotic and crowded display of eclectic subjects and styles made it hard to appreciate the individual works. We followed some signs up a big beautifully carved dark brown wooden staircase to the second floor. There was a completely different display up there. It took on a traditional museum type of exhibition style for the art and artifacts it was displaying. There were also formative plaques to explain what we were looking at and what role it played in the different eras of art, society, and economy here in Bath and England. Looking for food to give us more energy we popped into the indoor shopping center and ate a typical English sandwich with chips (fries to keep from confusing my fellow Americans). Then we continued our hike up the hill to the location of the Royal Crescent and Circus. We walked up hill on a quaint British street lined with adorable row houses. At the peak of the hill the houses parted. In front of our eyes erupted a circular green space full of gigantic old trees surrounded by a curved façade. Through one of the four breaks in the continuous wall of houses was a road leading us directly to the Crescent. The pale off white houses from the Circus seemed to just wrap down the side of the street then began to curve around again in a semi circle forming the Crescent. A large green lawn cradled in the Crescent was full of people of all nationalities and ages enjoying the perfect weather by lounging, napping, eating a picnic meal, reading, and playing games like football (aka American soccer). The weather could not have been any better. It was much larger than I had expected. What amazed me most was that people still live in these houses. Ever since I had seen photographs of this in my History class a few years ago I have wanted to see it for my self. After walking around and through it as the sun played hide and go seek with us using the clouds we began to walk back down to the other major attraction here, the Roman Baths. They alone have been what has brought people here for centuries. We decided to stop at the Fashion museum on the way because we heard that it was interesting and fun. It was fascinating to me to learn about the different eras, decades, layers of clothing and accessories that were popular. Listening and reading about the history and reasons behind them completed the picture. Then we entered a short pink room with a few mirrors, benches and articles of clothing hanging on hooks on the wall. It was the dress up in a corset and hoop skirt room. The three of us had fun trying on the garments and understanding why people were so proper and graceful, that is all you could be in these things. There was no possible way for me to slouch when I sat down in the corset. No wonder they all had good posture, they had help. When we had finished having our fun there we finally were headed to our last stop, the Roman Baths when a man dressed in Regency period clothing caught my eye. It was the Jane Austen Center. I just had to stop and check it out. Butterflies excited my soul bringing an elated smile to my face as I walked past the gentleman and entered the house. They had a tour of the Center where they displayed items of hers or things used in the movies made from her books in a old home similar to what she lived in with her family when they were here in Bath. With a little time left before our train the girls went ahead to ensure a good Roman Bath experience for themselves. I could not tear myself away so I stayed for the tour. The tour guide told me more about her whole family and life. Some I already knew but about half was new to me. I even learned how to flirt with a fan. In the gift shop I was tempted to buy a calligraphy pen and L wax stamp letter sealer. My desire for them was mostly due to my fascination and appreciation for the art of writing. I was strong enough to refrain and settle for some postcards. With about an hour before our train I rushed to the Roman Baths to see what I could. I was able to see it all surprisingly with the ridiculous amount of tourist packed in there. It was very similar to the ones I had seen in Italy making it easy to understand and move through faster. I met up with the girls in the gift shop to walk back to the station for our train. Today was one of the most enjoyable days of my touring around thanks to the gorgeous weather and surprise of the Jane Austen Center. Just thinking about her and her work warms my heart with a beaming smile. The whole train ride back I started planning my next trip back. I found out they have a Jane Austen evening event where lovers of her work attend a party dressed in clothing from her time. At the party people eat, mingle, and dance to the live orchestra playing time period appropriate music. Sounds like my kind of fun. I can’t wait.

London Here We Come – 16.5.201

We pulled into the Dublin City port in a black Mercedes taxi headed to terminal 1. BAM! There it was, our huge Irish ferry. It looked like a cruise ship. After walking up some stairs and hallways we were on. Then we entered into a gorgeous lobby with jolly crew members greeting us. We made our way down the outside edge with red velvet carpet, and leather on either side designating seating areas. We sat by a window in some comfy chairs when it hit me, we were on a ferry headed to Holyhead. In three hours we will be in a new country. Wondering around the ferry we found a movie theater, casino room, arcade, playground, shop and café. The Irish port disappeared into dark blue sea and a light blue clear sky. Soon the England coast was insight. We exited through a cold dim gray metal tunnel. Once on the other side we realized we actually hit Wales when the signs not only had English but Welch as well. Then we took a series of buses, trains, and subways to get to Reading. From there Laura’s friend picked us up in a tiny green car to take us to her home in Wokingham. There she made us a chicken fajita dinner. She is a fun and nice woman. I feel comfortable here with my friends, her, her husband and her two dogs in a small two bedroom cozy home.

Guinness Storehouse – 15.5.2010

We walked long ways from our hostel to the Guinness Storehouse for a tour. It is in a different area of town obvious by the vibe it gave off. Not high class shops not as well kept a much more lived in area sure. We spotted the first sign and the excitement began to build. But the sign was only one of many taking us on a maze it seemed like to get us to the actually storehouse. After going through the normal kind of lobby and buying ticket routine we traveled up an escalator to the bottom of the Guinness glass in the center of the building. That is where the self guided tour began. The lights were low only highlighting certain elements in the exhibit. The sound of rushing water pulled us through the exhibit which was there to represent the pure and fresh water used to brew Guinness. Each of the five levels was different. We learned what it is made of how it made, how it began, how it has changed over the years in symbolism and advertising and so much more. When we reached the fifth floor it was midday and time for some food. We ate at the restaurant over looking the whole complex and Dublin. We could see the spire and multiple Cathedral bell towers in the distance from the window at the end of our table. The food was delicious and perfect to prepare our stomachs before we had our complimentary pint of Guinness. We checked out the gravity bar at the top where there is a 360 degree view of Dublin. As the doors of the elevator parted human noise exploded in our ears. Soon the reason for the noise was visible. People of all ages were everywhere almost packed like sardines in chairs and standing around you could barely see the window let alone look out of it. We did not stay long due to that and because we were ready to pour the perfect pint of Guinness and drink it a couple of levels down. We waited in line with so many internationals watching people before us pour their Guinness. Then it was our turn. A small group of seven of us lined up behind the bar and listened to the instructions the bartender told us. Taking turns in groups of two or three we poured the perfect Guinness. Our reward was a certificate and the pint of Guinness to drink. We spent a good chunk of our day there and later that night after a few last minute souvenir stopping, packing and fast dinner we walked to the Arlington Hotel and Restaurant for some live Irish music and dancing. We walked in toward the bar looking for the stage. This place was busy and so packed people were to standing. Luckily enough there were three bar chairs facing the stage. The only problem with these seats was there was a primary circulation path and cows of tables between us and the stage. When the dancers came out we could barely see them past all the heads and column. The disappointing factor for me was not being able to see their feet. I was happy though because I remembered I had wanted to have an Irish coffee in Ireland and this was my last opportunity. It was warm with an inch thick layer of white cream on top, strong but delicious. It was the perfect treat to end the day and my time in Ireland.

Dublin II – 14.5.2010

Awoken by the blinding sunlight the three of us headed off to Stephens Green Park to make the most of the good weather. We learned fast that the weather here changes an innumerable amount of times in one day and it almost always rains for a short while. Laura and Alli both enjoyed themselves as much as I had hoped and expected. Then as midday began to approach we took off towards the other side of the Liffey. That is where we experienced the National Leprechaun Museum. It was a small new place that just opened up recently and is only temporary. After the introduction we walked through a tunnel and became the size of a leprechaun. Then we walked into the first room where our small size was up in our faces. The furniture was three times our size. I felt like Alice in Wonderland as I climbed up on to the giant chair. Two minutes later I was seated on the chair and was trying to reach for the mug as large as my head on the table in front of me. It was exhausting. The rest of the museum was different but all were well crafted exhibits to explain Irish folklore. At the end we got to meet the designer/owner. He designs and builds furniture for the wealthy in Dublin. Then some of the rest of the people who worked there told us more stories. Our stomachs began to distract us and dictate our next plan of action, lunch. After our tummies were full and content we walked to the Savoy Movie Theater for an afternoon showing of Robin Hood. The exterior blended in with the surrounding buildings until you walked inside. The red velvet curtain was hanging with spot lights hitting it as a sea of matching velvet seats sat between me at the back of the theater and the curtain. Wow! It looks like an old theater turned movie theater. The other awesome detail was the restrooms were inside at the back of the theater instead of out in the lobby. The movie was entertaining and enjoyable as I consumed a small bag of Irish candies. Afterwards we went to the Tara Street Train Station where we met up with a relative of mine, David Carroll. From there we took the train to the Coolmine stop and walked a couple of blocks and arrived at his house. There we joined him and his family for dinner. It was nice to talk to them. Claire his sister even played her concertina and tin whistle for us. The homemade Guinness stew was absolutely divine. Time flew by so fast due to us enjoying ourselves we almost missed the last train back.

Green, Green, Green – 13.5.2010

I am in Dublin, Ireland once again at Paddy’s Palace. 8 a.m. we set off on the Paddy Wagon for our tour of the Wicklow Mountains and town of Kilkenny. This country side is more lively than what I saw the last time I was here. Our driver knew a lot about Dublin and the surrounding areas, fun facts and serious history. There is one interesting sculpture we notice upon our arrival on Wednesday evening. An aluminum spire extending high into the sky, surpassing the roofs of the surrounding buildings piqued our interest. Why was it there? What is the meaning behind it? Today he had the answers. It costs somewhere around 8 billion euros to build this structure with no meaning behind it. He also told us of a few nicknames for the spire; Stiffy in the Liffey, Stiletto in the Ghetto, and Erection at the Intersection. The Vibrant green country side with yellow stalk plants adding another layer of texture and color as the bright blue sky extended down touching them ever so softly as the big fluffy white clouds traveled through it calmly. I could not get over how different the land was. Some areas had forests, lambs or cows grazing, shale, cottage ruins, and/or babbling brooks. This is where lots of films have been filmed such as Braveheart, Harry Potter, Excalibur and PS I Love You to name a few. The bridal scene in Braveheart was filmed at a monastic City we visited on our hike around the Wicklow Mountains. Our last stop was Kilkenny where we grabbed lunch at an old bank now a bar, Left Bar. It was gorgeous and unique. The designer did a fabulous job with the interior. The one detail I was fascinated with was the fans. The four fans were on a conveyor belt pulley system connected to each other. We then walked down High Street, which is the main drag before we bought some decadent chocolate fudge at a farmers market. Then we toured the grounds of the Kilkenny Castle. The castle was shorter and stouter than what I would have imagined. To use up the remaining time we left before our bus left we checked out the design district across the street. It was an old estate now housing shops and galleries for Irish artists. In one exhibit space there was an interesting are piece where the artist had layered up ¼” thick glass pie shaped pieces and then melted them so they looked like waves almost. Another one was where the artist layered glass again air spaces in between and a photo of an empty dandelion in the back. The intriguing part was the layers of glass hand etchings on them of a quote giving the picture completeness by being the furry seeds of the dandelion. The feeling I had in these exhibition spaces was familiar. It was the same as when I was at Milan except with an Irish flair. Then we were all lulled to sleep as we rode the bus back to Dublin in rush hour traffic. We finished our night at Thunder Road House Restaurant with loud rock music playing to match the surrounding environment of rock memorabilia.

Leaving Forever Changed – 8.5.2010

I am not sure what to say. Four months, fourteen field trips, four projects, one journal, thousands of pictures and countless memories worth every penny is what comes to mind. Yesterday, I sent two medium size boxes fall of souvenirs for family and friends and a few extra things. Today I packed my backpack preparing to leave Orvieto. This made waking up today unreal. So much has happened and now it is time to say goodbye. Eating our favorites at some great places and seeing some amazing people we got to know well here, one last time. I am ready, more than ready to go home but will miss this adorable cozy town. I still can’t believe I have been in Italy studying for four months. I had always dreamed about going, what it would be like and how I would feel. The time is flying by making this feel like a dream I have not awaken from. Yet this has been so different than what I had previously imagined. It feels like just yesterday when I started college with a couple goals in mind, graduate and study abroad. Now I am twenty-two and so much has happened in a blink of an eye and now my little brother will be joining me at KSU. This has proven we should listen to your elders. They have been there before and are right about how fast life goes. I we all need to enjoy every morning sun, song bird, breeze, laugh, meal, hug, rainy day, walk down the street, and breath we take before it passes and becomes only a memory. At about 11a.m. on a typical Saturday in Orvieto I load up my back with my backpacking bag and another army looking duffel on my left shoulder. Then I squeezed through the narrow blue painted thick wood door for the last time. I make my way through the market receiving all kinds of strange looks. A left on the Corso I head down to the Funiculare station in Piazza Cahn. With every step I say goodbye as a guitarist plays typical Italian folk music in the street for money. I am sure I looked like a fool loaded down as much as a pack mule yet walking with a smile on my face. The whole train ride towards Moiano I could not believe all I have done and seen in these four months that felt like a couple of weeks. Now I am gone. I am moving on to three cities in three different countries. I only pray that the ash cloud does not interfere too much so that I may make it home in time for my brother’s graduation.

Last Field Trip – 23.4.2010

This dark day was our first and last time to travel on a bus with Marco, our history professor, for our field trip. He used the time on the bus in between stops to explain more about what we would see. I tried to stay awake but with the winding hilly roads I began to feel car sick as usual. The cloudy rainy day did not help my case any either. It was disappointing to not see the unique country side of Siena County because of the fog and the rain drops running down the window. Our first stop was at a Monastery where we spent most of our time in the enclosed colonnade around the central courtyard. The walls were covered with paintings by Sodoma telling the story of their Saint. He had some interesting interpretations and humor with his paintings. Later a lady opened up the library for some of us to see. It was nice but the best part was a door in the bookcase leading to spaces behind the wall of bookcases. After a three course meal with some delicious local wine we walked up to St. Antimo Abbey. Everywhere we looked there were vineyards, rows and rows of grape vines that were beginning to sprout green leaves. Inside the small plain church we waited for the seven monks living there to come in for their prayers. I have always wanted to hear monks sing their prayers live and in person. Now it is time. The church was packed and silent when they entered and pulled out their prayer books from their desk pews. The first word harmonized so well it sent chills all through my body. For fifteen minutes we all sat listening and absorbing up all of this rare experience. Outside on our way out an older Italian lady came up to a couple of us that were conversing. She asked us in perfect English where we were from, what we were doing here, and what we thought of the experience we just shared. She was a little surprised to hear we were American students. She complimented us all on how well behaved we were during the prayer service. She wished us luck and happiness as we parted ways to our buses. Our last stop was at a Renaissance centrally planned church. Nothing too special or different then what we have seen these four months in Italy. One distinctive aspect of this church is the two towers on the back side were not attached to the church; they had their own walls and roof. The towers were nestled in niches into the church with an exterior pathway where they would connect to the church. That was the end of our field trips.

Under the Duomo in Florence – 21.4.2010

Today there was an interesting site a few of us were unlucky enough to witness. A couple in their late 20s made out heavy duty for at least 45 to 60 minutes. Then at the end of our trip, again I saw some teenagers in the train station were making out. I am happy to be going home soon where people are a little more private about expressing their affection. This was not our reason for this trip. We were on our seminar field trip. We went under the Duomo to see the reminants of a Roman house, first Christian church, and a Romanesque church. A nasty smell almost like urine greeted us first as we entered a dark short space. The display was eclectic with random bits of ruins from the different eras mixed among each other. It has probably been my least favorite so far. Afterwards we went to a museum a few blocks away. The only interesting things in it were the postcards made with an analysis of the Duomo area and the large model of the Roman town where Florence is currently. Then since none of us had gone into the baptistery yet Carol took us. It is a tall space with loads of gold mosaics on the walls and mostly on the octagonal dome ceiling. The space is similar in proportions and style to the Pantheon just in an octagonal form. The mosaics were mostly depicting stories from the Bible. This trip has definitely proven we are done looking at and analyzing the ruins and historic sites. It was obvious by our lack of attention and disdain on our faces. I am ready for a break in my home country. It hopefully will revive my interest in Italy and all of its history again for when I return.

Salone Internazionale di Mobili (aka Milan International Furniture Show) – 18.4.2010

Early in the morning after the best sleep I have had since arriving in Italy we took the subway to the largest Convention Center I have been to. Today is the only day open to the public and as the time got closer to when the event began the more people started to show up and crowd the entrance. It was almost like the people outside stores the morning after thanksgiving but with a little more calm thrown in there. The rush hit as the clock changed to 9:30. We took off down to the other end on moving walk ways. It took us ten minutes to get there, the land of Kitchens. The first couple of hours we wondered through in amazement. I can’t believe that the three of us out of twenty-one from Orvieto came and only six out of nine IA students and six out of the 50 plus KSU CAPD students in studying abroad. We could all learn something. I strongly suggest that anyone who is able to make it for this annual event should. This has been the only truly beneficial thing towards our major. There was exhibit, furniture, product, space, and lighting designs for us to learn from professionals and other students. I would love to someday have the IAPD department at KSU have a exhibit at this show to share our creations. There is no doubt in my mind that our students could compete with what we saw. There were things similar to pieces created by previous and current students in our program. There were a lot of new technologies as well. One was by some students from Japan. It was a unique and unconventional camera. It looked like speakers or something but was a camera. One of the students was wearing the Ushaped thin camera around his neck. Just as if he had picked up a modern horseshoe and decided to wear it as a necklace. AS I approached to get a better look he drew a circle in the air. I soon saw my face on the screen behind him. Creepy, no Awesome! To take a picture all he did was complete a shape in the air. The camera was designed to read his movement to take a shot of whatever the wearer desired. By the end our brains were on overload with ideas, images, and thoughts about interpreting and understanding all that we were seeing. In the 8 plus hours we spent at the show we were able to understand more than what we have been taught. I did not care how much my body and feet ached, or how much it cost me to get here. It was well worth it.

Milano – 17.4.2010

Maggie, Renae and I took a night train at midnight from Orte to Milano. This was my first over night train experience. Luckily we decided to pay a little extra to have our own three person sleeper cabin. I was excited and then the movie White Christmas pop into my head as I walked into a closet with three beds hanging from the wall on the left. The only standing room being enough just to have three people stand and do nothing else but some how we changed and made it into our beds. “You and our nook of the North” by Bing Crosby in White Christmas is the exact quote that ran threw my head once I woke up and was asked how I slept, just like a baby. The scene where Bing helps Rosemary Clooney down from the top bunk played in my head as I climbed down from the middle bunk. After seeing that movie, way too many time, as a kid growing up I dreamed about what it would be like to go to sleep on a train in one place and wake up in another. I was excited as I stepped off the train at 6:45 to looking around absorbing the beautiful station. I was able to get more than just a glimpse like I did last time I came through to catch a bus to the airport for our flight to Ireland. We went to drop off our bags for the day until we could check in later at the Marriot off of Washington Ave. Three of us walk into the rich lobby in our jeans, tennis shoes, and t-shirts carrying our back packers bags on our backs. The expression on the receptionists’ faces was priceless. They were surprised to see us especially at 7 in the morning. To our amazement they allowed us to go ahead and check in. We entered the room with our name on the TV along with their greeting. This was the nicest hotel I have ever stayed in. We freshened up and left for the Duomo. The Duomo is huge and covered in an extensive amount of detailed relief carvings and sculptures. Inside was extremely dark because the windows were all stunning stain glass windows. The newer ones (1500s) were like a painting. The most beautiful I have seen. The crypt was smaller than I expected. The roof by far was the best part. To walk on the marble roof tiles and buttresses was unimaginable. It sounds unsafe but I felt extremely secure. Gargoyles and sculptures were everywhere in all types of sizes. Some were so small you could only see it from the roof. From the ground you would never know that the spindle looking thing has in reality open archways with the dome connecting them protecting a sculpture from the elements. Detail out the wazoo that people would never see if we did not travel to the roof. At the very top was an amazing view of the city. From above I was able to see the crowds of people in the Piazza del Duomo for some kind of school event as musicians played on a couple of stages. I was disappointed I did not bring my sketch book to sit for awhile and enjoy the outdoor space created on the roof to the fullest by sketching one of the many details. As we started to be pelted with rain drops we ducked into the Galleria. It is just like the one in Napoli. The funny thing we caught in pictures was each one of us improving our luck. There is a mosaic of a bull on the floor and if you spin three times with on the bulls balls you will have good luck. So many people do it that they have to restore it every so often. I was shocked to see the stone completely concave and a hole where the balls are supposed to be from all the wear of people spinning on it. The bull is never lonely, you can spot where the bull is by the crowd of people that never seems to dissipate surrounding it. The we decided to do some shopping, why not we are in Milan. In the middle of shopping we met up with some of our fellow IA students studying abroad in Germany. We stood in the middle f the busy and packed H&M talking and catching up. In the conversation they told us about a big event going on in the design district with the end result convincing us to stop shopping and go check it out. We continued to talking the whole way, in the streets and subway to the event, Zona Tortona. It was like a carnevale party with food vendors everywhere, pedestrian only streets and hoard of people anywhere you looked. We wondered around and entered the buildings or exterior spaces that had signs with the logo for the event. At each location there was something different and each one equally astounded me. The exhibits were of works by professional designers and students with all kinds of ideas and designs. There we also ran into another friend of mine. She is from Germany but studied abroad last year at K-state in the IA department with us. We got to know each other and shared a common interest in salsa dancing. It was great to see her again and I was pleasantly surprised to hear she was coming back to visit us in the states this coming August. We spent a couple of hours exploring and absorbing the inspirational environment. Then our feet began screaming with pain signaling that they needed a break so we went to grab something to eat. We ended up at a chic bar for their apertivo special. We had not stopped talking up a storm with Paul, Christa and Melia. We split ways when they had to leave to catch their bus. The bed back at the hotel was the perfect medicine for our exhausted and aching bodies.

Jubilee Church – 16.4.2010

As the millennium was approaching the church decided to commission a few brand news churches. Richard Meier designed one that now stands in a suburban area of Rome. We drove up to see three huge white sails in the beautiful clear blue sky. We stood outside in an empty irregular shaped piazza to take our full frontal pictures. As we approached the entrance we were almost blinded by the reflectance of all the white surfaces. Our eyes could finally open to get a squint free view of the church because it was designed to not have any direct light invade. My favorite feature of the church was part of what I saw first. A white square box extruded out from a smaller one suspended in the air with three cut outs on the side allowing bouncing light to light it up framing the Crucifix. That one element touched my heart gently because I was able to feel the presence of the Trinity in a simply and elegant way. It was one unforgettable experience and hit the top of my list for best modern churches I have seen. As we began to leave through the piazza again, I was delighted to see it was being used by the local parents and kids. It was obvious that school just let out as parents socialized with each other as the kids ate snacks and ran around playing kid games as we pulled out of the parking lot in our big pink bus.

Villa Adriana (aka Hadrian’s Villa) – 16.4.2010

This villa was different than Villa D’Este. It was in more of a ruined state and occupied more land. The atmosphere was comparable to the one in Pompeii. Walking into the past using our imagination to put the existing clues together to see it for real. I was a little disappointed with how most of the famous and unique areas were now closed off, only to be seen from a distance. Wild flowers were beginning to cover the ground not trampled by the foot traffic of tourists. It was a wild bright red poppy. I could not help myself; I had to take one to join me for the rest of my visit through the site. It rode around on my right ear. It blended in with my outfit of red, blue and white shirt and my favorite red puma tennis shoes peaking out from my jeans. I made it to see the most famous view of the Villa, the naked warrior from behind with columns on either side of him with a huge green pool in front of him. Of course we all were making all kinds of jokes and interesting photos with him. I watched a small turtle sun bathing on the growth covered lights as huge ugly fish swam around in the green water for awhile. I took over a whole bench by laying down on my back. The weather was perfect for my relaxing nap under canopies of trees before we all left.

Villa D’Este – 16.4.2010

City atmosphere everywhere as we all pile out of a big Mary K and Pepto-Bismol pink bus. Its logo was a dolphin to make it even better. In the middle of the busy town was the small entrance to the grandiose garden and villa. We walked in to a square courtyard to the left of the ticket booth. The courtyard was three stories tall with an open colonnade on the ground level on three sides. The fourth side was a tall plain wall separating the villa from the town. Orange trees were spread randomly along the colonnade. There was a tall wide fountain on the fourth wall. Once up on the second floor I headed to the right in to a rectangular room along a lengthy corridor. The paintings on the walls were grotesque only when you take a closer look. Strange creatures such as a goose like creature with an exaggerated neck and human breasts and face. The majority of the content was breasts almost as if the artist was obsessed with them. One of the larger and taller rooms had three sets of double doors opening out to a small porch with a set of stairs at each open end to the first level of the garden. I began on the right with my weaving path back and forth, up and down the multiple terraces. It was peaceful as I found the fountain you could walk under was in the process of restoration. Just down from it along its axis was the wall of 100 fountains. Of all the villas and gardens I saw and learned about in Carol’s history class, this is the one was the one I wanted to see the most. It was a narrow, elongated, and cool outdoor space. This is exactly where I would hangout among different faced fountains to stay cool in the summer as I continued throughout the rest of the garden I was pleasantly surprised by the diversity of styles and scenes of all the fountains. You better go to the bathroom before entering the garden because the sound of the flowing water is inescapable. Two other spaces began to compete with the wall of 100 fountains as my favorite part of the garden. One was at the end of the axis where stone walls lining a wide pathway to a gate. Thin metal strips creating arches connected the two walls to enclose the top. Growing on the metal arches were vines on the verge of blooming. Along the base of the walls were colorful tulips except in the middle of each wall was a full heighted fountain. The other one was up at the highest terrace off to the side of the largest fountain was another small space with wisteria growing on the metal archway. At the end of the walkway lined with stone benches was a small fountain. The wisteria hanging down like clusters of purple fragrant grapes made the space. I plan on having a similar space in my home eventually to take me back to this moment pure joy and relaxation.

Siena – 9.4.2010

Bright and early once again we take off in a snug bus to the city of Siena. We stepped off the bus on the northern side of the city at the fortress. Spring has definitely come out to grace us with her presence. The unobstructed sun warmed the skin. It was larger than I had expected as we walked to the city center. The streets were noticeably steeper than most streets in Orvieto. The buildings surrounding me as we travel to the Duomo are the burnt sienna color from the local brick. As we get closer to the Duomo the more tourists I saw. Then out of the blue around a corner a small piazza opened up a view to the front of the Baptistery in high contrasting black and white stone stripes. Shockingly there were crowds of people on the massive stairs to the left of the Baptistery and only a few couples in front of it. We walked down further and took a left when we reached an old hospital with beautiful pointed arch windows with tiny columns framing them. Once I tore myself away from looking at them I turned around and there it was, the Duomo. It was almost like dejavu. To me this was the big sister to the Duomo in Orvieto. They have similar features and characteristics, but the interior was much larger. The flooring is what caught my attention the most. The same stone as outside with some color mixed in now and then but the most unique detail was indentions on the white stone that appeared to be black dots. Once you look at the dots not as individual dots but part of a picture drawings appear, my favorite part. Another simple difference was the stain glass rose window and colored bottle glass windows around the Church. The Campo was full of people and all the noise that comes with them. It was amazing to see such a simple piazza being used by vendors, visitors, locals, dogs, birds etc. People did not find the paving to hard to sit on to enjoy the sunshine, atmosphere and people watching. One disappointing element was the fountain. What brought a frown to my face was that the metal fence meant to protect it instead just covered it up. I walked up to it even though it created an uninviting presence. When I approached I could finally see that the statues were she wolves. The fountain was simple not enticing me to stay long. As I began to turn my head away some pigeons flew in and landed on the fountain. One was thirsty creating the most unexpected site. It started drinking the water flowing out of the she wolf statue‘s mouth. It brought a smile to y face but not as big as the one a little girl in the Civic museum did earlier today. We went in and saw four rooms; an entrance hall, chapel, waiting hall and a room with frescos of good and evil regarding government. It was nothing special or different from most of the things I have seen so far. The barbarians, as Marco called them, were fascinated by the frescos on the walls all around us. As we began to break for the day I looked to the right back to the large hall we had spent about twenty minutes sitting on Barcelona benches earlier and that is when my heart smiled. I saw an adorable two year old brunette little girl in a pink dress and tiny shoes. She sat alone and content with the world, just to drink out of her bright blue sippy cup on a huge bench. She was there with her mother and grandmother I found out later. For lunch a small group, of seven, went to a small one room restaurant. The old man was unsure what to think of us as we waited to be seated at the front door. Once we parted our lips with Italian a grin appeared on his face and he began to seat us. The food was satisfying. Towards the later part of the afternoon I explored a little on my own looking for more souvenirs for my family and with some luck I found some. I also stopped in to a small shop Marco pointed out on our walking tour when he was telling us about Paneforte. Curiosity overwhelmed me causing me to buy a small one. That night I tried it but was not impressed. It did not make my top ten of favorite desserts I have had in Italy. The bread part was a sugary with a mushy texture and a strong flavor of liquor. The best part was the fresh whole nuts and fruit mixed in. The afternoon went by too fast. I wish I had more time there. To make departing easier I just told myself, “there is always next time.” Until then I will study up on the different contradas and what they stand for. Then when my family and I come back, hopefully in July or August for the Palio horse race I can have a contrada I identify with and to root for. We have to. There is no question about it, especially since we inherited my late grandfather’s race horse, Rose Dash, and one of her colts. Through them we have learned a good deal more about horses. My brother has even researched the races that Rose Dash used to run in and the culture surrounding racing. I know my mother and brother would appreciate it the most. I am sure it would be an unforgettable experience to attend Il Palio with my family. If only my grandfather could be there to share it with us, but he will be there in spirit and enjoying from above.

Concert in the Duomo – 5.4.2010

I arrived back in Orvieto just in time for the concert in the Duomo at 17:30. Tourists were everywhere and buses were parked by the Duomo which has been unusual activity for Orvieto. Despite the cold and rain people waited outside of the Duomo to get good seats when they opened the doors to let in the attendees. I have never seen the Duomo lit up this way, with blue lights in the niches and reddish orange lights on the columns. It was beautiful. Occupied chairs covered the floor and those who did not have seats stood in the remaining spaces not taken up by camera crews. I sat on the far side with some friends unable to see the orchestra in front of the altar due to the massive columns and hundreds of heads in front of me. This is the fullest I have ever seen this church compared to the weekly masses I attend. We all waited about an hour before the concert began. My favorite music they played was Bach, mostly because it reminded me of my days in high school band playing the flute. Surprisingly the acoustics were not awful. The robust and clear music was perfect for the grandiose setting. The very first not gave me chills. As I sat listening to the musicians I was able to get a better look at the Duomo, noticing the capitals are all different but only one is noticeably different but only one is noticeably different with a square section instead of octagonal. I also began to truly appreciate the multiple uses this Cathedral serves. They are not letting this gorgeous building go to waste. Halfway through we got up and moved closer and stood to watch the last half. Above the sea of heads I saw the conductor in his black tux with his baton gracefully cutting through the air. Behind him was an army of violinists with their bows shooting up and down in sync. It was the perfect closing event for my first Easter season in Italy.

Easter Vigil – 3.4.2010

23:00 we are seated in one of the naves of the Collegiata in wooden pews. Our view of the altar was completely blocked by the massive columns. Prayers began with dim lights, almost dark, while waiting for midnight to strike and mass to begin. Then large wooden doors burst open precisely at the exact same time the band played, bells rang, fire crackers went off outside and all the lights came on to announce entrance of the resurrected Christ. The statue of Jesus Christ was carried in through the doors on the shoulders of men running towards the altar. Then once the silence broke out people began to walk up towards the statue to kiss and touch him then returned to their seats for mass. Mass was the same as every other mass I have been to here in Italy. All together it was an unforgettable experience, an interesting way to emphasize the resurrection. I was woken up Easter morning by church bells ringing loud and clear for about five minutes. Following the sound of the bells was birds chirping as sunlight shown through the shutters leading me to believe it was a glorious day to hike to the near by castle. In reality it was gloomy, cloudy, and raining. It made for a relaxing rainy day with friends watching movies, singing along to the movies, devouring a delicious Easter feast, and card playing. That night they took me to the Velvet Underground Bar. The bouncer let us into the dark bar full of local Italians. An attractive detail by the bar was a clear glass cover that revealed an old well in the floor. A live band was playing loud enough to make conversation awkward and difficult. For that reason alone we left and went to Regiro’s to talk which turned into dancing in the backroom with crazy flashing lights and smoke. Of course I got all hot and sweaty as I enjoyed dancing with and teaching some of the people I was with. This time there were a couple of Italians that tried to learn but they did not last more than half a song before they left. This was one of the best decisions I have made about traveling. I was able to spend time with good friends, meeting new people, and dancing.

Good Friday: Castiglion Fiorentino - 2.4.2010

Walking up the main corso was an unexpected workout. This town has many more hills than Orvieto. The buildings lining the hefty sized stone paving are made of plaster. The majority of the streets we passed through on were narrow and in general pedestrian. Laura and Alli live with Heidi in a small room with a bunk bed and an RV bathroom. St. Chiara is definitely an older building with signs of various adaptations made for the different uses of this building over time. Originally it was a Convent with a church attached. After WWII it became a orphanage. Then after sitting vacant for years it became what it is today a study center for Kansas State, TX A&M, UTSA, Colorado State, Arizona, U of H and few a other universities. On the lower floor is where the studios, lounge, bar and dinning hall are located. Ou dinner was served family style. Three courses; spaghetti, veggies, meat skewers, and for dessert we had ice cream sandwiches for one guys birthday. At about 21:30a procession for Good Friday began at the church next door to the study center called Collegiata. The small church next to it, Il Jesu, was open to the public which only happens once a year. The inside was elaborate and colorfully decorated. The procession consisted of three brotherhoods each wearing outfits similar to the KKK in their color; black, blue or white. A unique element of these brotherhoods was they are made up of men, women and children. Each group carried a cross and a statue of the crucified Jesus. Behind those groups were two ladies holding a cloth with Jesus’s face on it, symbolizing the cloth used to wipe the sweat from his face. They were followed by a group of women carrying a statue of the Virgin Mary with a band in red uniforms marching and playing in between the prayers spoken out loud and speakers as a group. At the end were the local people and visitors participating in the procession. We stood off to the side taking pictures and absorbing as much of this experience as possible. The procession lasted for a couple of hours. One thing about it that seemed to impress the people I was around, mostly non Catholics was that one of the brotherhoods had the men carrying the cross barefoot. It ended in the large church where it started. Then it was time to socialize. Regiro’s was a bar St Chiara students enjoyed going to because it is more like a restaurant that serves food the whole night. Then they stay open until 2a.m. but don’t kick people out until about 3 a.m. There I got a Ballini, which tasted like Summer Brew, while playing Seven Up & Seven Down and Mau. The place was full of people; local Italians and students. Each bay/room had different themes. The one we stayed in the most had an Indian theme. The bar owner loves salsa music so towards the end of the night one of the guys from A&M plugged in his iPod and played some. I started dancing at the table then could not help myself I got up and started dancing with my friends who wanted to learn. The dance floor was less than perfect, uneven brick floor in the middle of the room taking up the entire circulation path. I was a blast, probably the best evening I have had since arriving in Italy. We stayed until after 3 in the morning dancing to Salsa and merengue. Grazie mille or should I say muchas gracias.

Villa Lante – 26.3.2010

The current entrance to the gardens at the base is the wrong end to experience the gardens. For this reason a group of my classmates closed there eyes while they followed a trusting friend as they traveled to the zenith. They were entertaining to watch after we all had a loud and enjoyable lunch that consisted of little samples of the local food and wine. Surprisingly the garden was a slight let down for me. It was not as large as I expected and due to the season it was not blooming as gloriously as it could be. This garden had similar features to Villa Farnese. One was a grotto like space in a large grassy open space where the cardinals used to enjoy each others company around a large table full of food and drinks. I heard from Carol that occasionally in the summer the servants would turn on the water that would shoot out of the sides of the small open buildings enclosing the space to wet them almost like a joke but more about cooling them off from the scorching summer weather. There were also many trimmed hedges leading you down from the space to a comparable waterfall hand rail down to a fountain further into the structured part of the garden. Down some stairs to the base of that fountain was an open space with a long stone table with a slit in the middle where cool water flowed through. It was another place where meals were eaten and the slit was used not only to bring a tranquil water feature to the table but became a functional drink chiller for the meals. In the next and last plateau was covered with knee high trimmed hedges and tall topiary trees creating a maze to the center where a large circular fountain was placed. Human figures were at the heart of the fountain on the main axis of the garden. Just outside this enclosed garden to the West is Huntington Park. Open fields with small waving hills and tall shady trees beckoned me to take a nap. I laid on an inclined part of a hill in the sun on the soft cool grass barefoot accompanied only by the white daisy flowers and small insects crawling around on my exposed skin. That was the most pleasurable time I have spent outdoors while here in Italy.

Villa Farnese at Caprarola – 26.3.2010

We walked up a steep narrow cobblestone street in a single file line with cars giving us a cool breeze as they pass us. The most famous view of the Villa Farnese in front of us a little more revealed with every step. There it is lit perfectly by the sun on this cool clear day. The steps up are deep and shallow with the cobblestone tread and solid rounded stone as the riser. Looking back down the long street we walked up from the main entrance then up two flights of stairs, it is obvious the palazzo is extremely important. It is the end of the axis. Next we entered across a fake drawbridge walkway along with another large secondary Italian school group. We descended down a stone spiral stair, famous from the third God Father movie, to the service spaces below. Under the main central courtyard is the room of the cistern. There off to one side was a laundry stone basin. Just outside the cistern room a circular path way wrapped around it giving it a similar feel to the Roman stadium circulation. As we walked that circulation path we were able to see they many kitchens and service spaces that radiated out. The kitchens were large open rooms with large fire places, one large enough for our class of twenty-one students to stand inside. We left the plain stone and plaster walls and gravel floors to the rooms several stories above. There the rooms were elaborately painted in a variety of sizes. Many of the rooms were painted in a tricky manner such that the architectural elements appeared to be three dimensional when they were in reality flat on the wall. The recently enclosed portico even had fake doors painted on the walls giving a sense of symmetry. The best part of the palace was the pentagon shaped courtyard and the views of it through the windows to the gardens. The gardens were peaceful with the birds chirping, sun piercing the tree canopies to warm the skin chilled by the breeze. The path to the secret garden begins to disappear. The surroundings change from structured colonnades, trimmed hedges to free loose forestry as though you’re almost hiking in the wilderness. On the right side a few yards from the dirt path created by the footsteps of the visitors to the gardens was a tree with a hollowed base. It was large enough for animals to inhabit similar to the one Alice falls into Wonderland with. The strong axis draws you up to the beginning of the gardens. A large circular fountain with faces pouring water out from their eyes, nose, mouth and ears greeted us upon our entry. Defining the space of the fountain were highly rough textured walls leading up to small arch ways into a petite space. In that space was coral covered walls originally fountains with water trickling out and over the coral to a basin on the ground. Black and white mosaic floors had a pattern with flor de leis. These spaces were on either side of the base of the hand rail of the main stairs ascending up to more structured gardens and the Villa. As you step down out of that space your feet touch grass covered stairs with stone risers. Stone fish was the edge of the railing used to contain the water flowing down. Another large fountain was located at the top of these stairs with gigantic human statues in leisurely positions. Once you climb the stairs around this fountain you reach the first level of the garden full of trimmed hedges with small horse fountains in the center and human statues used like a colonnade to define the edge. A beautiful tall pink rose bush lost some petals to the grass below it creating one of the most romantic sights I have seen. An open terrace surrounded by wilderness was located directly behind the Villa accessible only by two staircases on either side of the Villa. In this terraced garden there were urn shaped fountains at each level and on the lowest level closest to the Villa was a elegantly large fountain resembling an urn towered above us. Back in the main garden at the back of the Palazzo on our way out was a small space called the grotto full of water dropping down from the icicle shaped stones. This space had some similar characteristics to the Natural Caverns in San Antonio, TX but this one had been touched by the hand of man. There were statues in a similar colored stone to the existing stone placed inside as part of the grotto almost as if the flow of the water carved the figures over time. It was calming with the gentle sound of water dripping perfect for the hot summers to cool down and relax.

There Is No Place Like Home – 20.3.2010

I used to dream about living abroad permanently. How wonderful it would be, a fairy tale. Well, having my taste of living abroad for two months now I can safely say No. There are too many things I need that only home can provide; family, friends, food, and some aspects of the American culture. I realized this sitting in La Salsa, a small Mexican restaurant in Galway. I had joined my friends knowing better. Growing up with fresh homemade Mexican food there is no way I would be satisfied with what they will serve. There restaurant name was salsa but they did not have any and I don’t mean the dancing. They had a tomato paste with a pinch of a spice to it, absolutely awful not hot at all or flavorful. My friends’ disappointment made me wish I could only get some hot peppers and cilantro in Orvieto to make some salsa for them. At that moment it hit me, I love America because it is a melting pot. We have so many different kinds of people with their own sub culture. Plus that is how we got so many types of food we eat on a regular basis; Mexican, Italian, Cuban, Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, American, Irish, Indian, etc. Ireland is similar but not America. Italy has hardly a variety at all but why should they, they are Italy. USA also has a wide variety of climates and environments were we can live and work you just have to figure out which is best for you. I am currently on that journey and hopefully within a year I will have a better understanding at the least enough to have picked a place to start my career. We will have to see, but now I know for sure it will be in America. That eliminates a ton of choices already, the rest of the world. It will just have to be my escape, I love seeing new places, experiencing new things and learning more about other places, cultures and societies. I just can’t stay there for multiple years at a time.

Dublin – 20.3.2010

Dublin is a big City, extremely obvious after Kilarney and Galway. It is full of historic buildings with newer modern buildings popping up among them. This is what I would have expected from London, well sort of I hope to find out for real in a couple of months. They have a similar pedestrian shopping street to Italian big cities. What has made us feel so comfortable and almost home is the English language widely spoken all around us, automobiles, modern buildings, and food places we are used to Pizza Hut, Subway, TGIFridays, HardRock,etc. They also have one of Europe’s largest city parks, the Stephen Green Park. Today was beautiful sunny but a cold day. The grass was green, flowers were blooming, and people were everywhere enjoying the nice weather in this park amongst the cityscape. Walking around it I was able to hear seagulls, water splashing form the ducks movements, kids laughter and friendly conversations I multiple languages. One of many things Houston, my hometown, is missing green spaces in the heart of the city. Later we walked to the Dublin castle which was not what I expected but then again it is in the middle of the city. We walked along the river for a bit on our way to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It was huge with its own garden park next to it open to the public. It is the mini me of Stephen Green Park. The park was peaceful and quiet creating a good place to relax and read a good book or sip a smoothie while catching up with friends. I liked Dublin and all it had to offer; food shopping, parks and multiple forms of transportation (buses, taxis, cars, rail, train, and even bike and pedestrian friendly). I was sad to have only spent one and a half days here.

Cliffs of Moher – 18.3.2010

Another bus tour across the Irish country side started on a cloudy sprinkling morning. Before the weather finally cleared up I was not sure what was on the other side of the glass window I was looking out. As we approached the Cliffs the sun came out to greet us and travel with us as we walked around. Another friend joined me as soon as I stepped off the bus, the wind. It was not as nice as the sun, blowing me around. The bus driver made a cute joke about the new hair dos we would have when we returned to the bus. It made more sense and proved to be true once we finished visiting the site. He was not lying and I have pictures to prove it. It was gorgeous soft green and yellow grass among limestone rocks, white waves beating into the cliff back dropped with dark blue water and bright blue sky. I explored on my own letting it all absorb in through all my senses before I shopped around in the gift shop. There I found some nice stuff but what caught my attention the most was a living shamrock in a necklace. I went ahead and treated myself to it along with some more family souvenirs.

St. Patty’s Day in Galway – 17.3.2010

We had breakfast at a small café similar to Panera Bread (aka St. Louis Bread Company). After my tummy was full with a breakfast bagel and fruit infusion cup of tea we picked our spot for the parade and stood our ground. The parade was not at all what I expected, especially when it is the second largest parade in Ireland to Dublin. It was made up of mostly kids’ sports groups, camps, bands, then some theater troops and church groups. Very few people were really dressed up there except for the few people with the identical costumes. We wondered the streets taking in our surroundings afterward till we found a pub that looked good. I drank a Guiness as we listened to some live musicians playing in a crowded bar of people of all ages even children. Once we finished our round of beer we headed off to our next pub to start our St. Patrick’s Day pub crawl. It took a few more pubs before we decided we were hungry for lunch. That is where I got my first fish and chips since being in Ireland. At the end of the night we finally met some guys in a bar. One was Irish and the other was Canadian. It was a good time, not all that I expected but an experience none the less.

Bus Tour of Dingle Peninsula & 22nd Birthday – 15.3.2010

On a small bus like van we headed out with two couples, one young the other old. The whole day we spent riding across the country side seeing the gorgeous hills that would have been breath taking if they were only green. That was one big disappointment. I expected it to be lusciously green. We were told it was due to that they had a harsh winter. Each village was colorful and tiny. We broke for lunch in Dingle where I got a bowl of seafood chowder. Then I broke my Lenten penance of chocolate for my birthday to try a bite of fried Kit Kat and Snickers. Everyone was right about it. Delicious!!! I now understand what they were all saying. That night Chuck and I drank some beer while watching some soccer. Later the girls joined us to finish the night by going to a bar. It was dark and as we moved further to the back close to the stage there was a booth with red lights. As we got closer there was a Happy Birthday banner and a picture of Alex. Nikki and Alex’s mother had reserved this booth for the night. We enjoyed putting our drinks on her mom’s tab as we listened to a live musician. Towards the end of the night Alex and I worked up enough courage to ask him to play Sweet Caroline and an Elvis song. If you know me at all you should be able to guess which one I asked for. It made for a good night that we all enjoyed.

First Day in Ireland – 14.3.2010

I woke up on my own to the bright and beautiful sun shining in through our sky light. I cleaned up using my new Lush products that smelled divine as I prepared for mass. The strange thing about the showers was not that they were unisex but the shower head worked the same as most public sink faucets. I had to push a button and it would release the water for about 10 seconds then shut off which could have made for a frustrating shower if it was not my first day in Ireland. The walk through the Killarney streets on my way to St. Mary’s Cathedral for mass was peaceful. The streets were quiet and empty except for those people headed to one of the several churches. The Cathedral was beautiful despite the fact that it was exactly like many Italian churches with a few minor changes. Definitely gothic with its stone, stained glass windows and pointed arches. I enjoyed being able to hear and understand the father’s homily but it reminded me too much of home that I had to fight back tears a few times. I grew up going to mass as a family every Sunday, a good memory. After touring around the church after mass I headed back to the Hostel to meet up with my friends but instead ran into them on the street. At that point we were all hungry and decided to stop into a pub advertising a full Irish breakfast. It was an egg, couple of sausages, bacon, hash browns, toast, blood pudding and tea. I walked around for a bit by myself afterward to enjoy the cool weather. The views were spectacular with the mountains in sight. I did my first sketch of the mountains in the distance cows in between, and then fences and a gate. It looked awful but served its purpose by relaxing me and eventually jog my memory about the view and environment as I stood there sketching it. I did not get to finish it because I went to meet up with the girls for a movie since we were in an English speaking country. We watched Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland in 3D for the steep price of 11 Euros. I got so wrapped up in the experience I forgot I was not home til the lights came on and the people around me started speaking in their Irish accents. To end the night we had dinner in a small bar where we got 5 free beers and I got a free soup, we were not sure why but did not argue just tipped well.

Crazy Adventure to Ireland – 13.3.2010

Crazy Adventure to Ireland – 13.3.2010

First let me help you understand what I meant by crazy. Our schedule started by catching a bus at 4:09a.m. the 13^th of March to the train station. There we waited in the creepily empty, as in a horror film way, train station for about 45 minutes to depart from Venice to Milan. Upon arriving in Milan we had to catch another bus to the airport take a plane to Dublin. Yet again we took a double decker bus to the Dublin train station for our train to Killarney for the weekend. Travel time from the take off of the first bus to us walking into our Hostel was 17 hours. We made it just fine through the beginning luckily because we remembered to bring our permit of stay making it much simpler and less stressful. When on the plane I was in awe of the amazing Swiss Alps poking through the clouds. I never really had a strong desire to go to Switzerland, there were too many other countries I preferred see first. Now I am sure I would like to go snowboarding there. They were the most beautiful mountains I have seen. Vale does not compare. On the double decker bus from the Dublin airport I experienced what it was like to be traveling on the wrong side of the road or just the other side depending on how you want to look at it. Driving through Dublin was a nice change with all its modern buildings and signs with English everywhere. After checking into our hostel we walked the main street looking for a place to grab dinner when we stumbled across an Irish fast food place. Across the street we got our first Guiness beer before we headed back which helped us fall fast asleep. We were excited to see there were other groups of students staying there also. They changed our minds that night when we were trying to get some shut eye from the full day of traveling in an uncomfortably hot room because we were abruptly awoken by there drunk bums being loud and obnoxious.

Venice: Part II – 12/3/2010

The next morning we walked around took in a few churches one being St. Giovanni and Paulo. That was huge and empty compared to the one yesterday, but the chapels were beautiful. Afterward I joined a couple of guys to tour the Naval History Museum. We got lost of course due to the dead ends into canals and fewer bridges in the residential areas. I am sure we had a unique experience walking through them. We found it finally and ran inside with empty stomachs because it closed at 13:30. It was a really interesting exhibit of models of different eras and styles of ships for centuries, cannons, swords, guns, old style grenades of glass, clothing, ship parts and navigation tools were what I was able to see before we were what I was able to see before we were kicked out. I am now able to start a list for when my family and I come back. I definitely would like to go back to share it with my brother and father especially and also finish seeing what else they had to display. A quick bite to eat was next on the agenda before I headed off to meet up with my good friends from home who were going to our other Italian program. The most famous meeting place between the columns at San Marco is where we were reunited. It used to be where people where publicly executed, oh so romantic. I toured the Correr while they went to the Doge’s Palace. The Correr had a mixture of what I had seen at all the previous museums I have been to in Italy. Each museum had their own room with a small assortment of artifacts. It was similar to a cliff notes but museum version. It was amazing to see them and catch up as we window shopped and ate dinner. Before long we had to say our good byes. Once I left them I rode the vaporettos back to the Hotel to get sleep for my long day of traveling to Ireland starting at 3:40 a.m.

Venice: City of Islands – 11/3/2010

We arrived late, wet, cold and exhausted. The first night I just relaxed with some buddies. Early the next day we all took the vaporetta to San Marco Square for a tour of the Doge’s Palace. It was much larger than it appears from the exterior and what I expected. Rich materials, paintings, furniture and fixtures covered the interior. What caught my attention the most was the scale of the justice rooms. As soon as I entered the armory my brother’s face popped into my head. It is not what you are thinking; I love my brother and just know he would have enjoyed this room the most. Swords, shields, armor, bows and arrows, etc were displayed in glass case in several rooms. I was shocked by the size of the armor; I don’t think I could have fit into them. They were petite and skinny. My brother entered my thoughts again as I descended down to the prisons, not because he is a bad boy, but because he would have found interest in the writings and drawings on the chambers walls. After we all regrouped in front of the church we took our turn pushing through the Asian tourist groups to see the beautiful façade of the church. It was gorgeous but not as pleasurable of an experience walking through due to the amount of tourists everywhere. We spent a whole five minutes inside because it was so bad. The large group of us split up and got a quick lunch and wandered back towards the hotel on foot. Before we knew it we were on the top of the Rialto Bridge. Vendors’ Alley is what I would call it. I liked it better than the Ponte Vecchio in a few ways. One was I could afford what they were selling if I wanted to verses high end jewelry. The unique difference the Ponte Vecchio had was the old style security wood doors and canopies to cover it up completely. As we were walking on a less touristy street we noticed a man blowing glass in a store window to our left. Mesmerized the three of us walked in through the open door to a small shop. The African man greeted us in Italian. Watching him work and talking to him for about half an hour we got to know him well and vice versa. He was originally from Africa but went to Japan to compete in Kick Boxing tournaments for several years and won a few titles. He bought this shop with some of his earnings and started his jewelry glass blowing store. I could not help but ask him about the music he was playing. The salsa music was one of his favorites. I shared with him I too enjoy it especially when I can dance to it. The three of us each bought something different. Brooke bought a key chain, Alyssa bought a pair of earrings and I bought a necklace. We started to say our good byes when he gave us some simple key chains for free. Then as he handed me mine he did not release my hand but instead pulled me further into the store and began dancing with me to the instrumental salsa music. I was so surprised I did not know what to feel as my body moved like it had been wanting to this whole time we had talked to him as the music played softly in the background. It had been awhile since I had danced last but the moves flowed out of me as if I have been doing everyday for years. It was the typical “it’s like riding a bicycle” syndrome. By the time the song ended my face was flushed with my pearly whites exposed. I predicted as we left that was going to be my favorite and the single most memorable experience on this north trip. That night I ended up on what a waiter thought was a date between Conner and I which made for an interesting time. The waiter was nice and gave us some names of a couple other bars and a discotecca he said would be open. We planned on going with our friends but when we midnight rolled around we found it was still closed and did not look like it was going to open. We made the most of it the situation by taking in the quiet night streets drinking warm sangria at a fruit stand by day and a bar by night vendor.