Exactly 3 weeks to go!

 So here are the specs:
Who? Mary
What? Studying Abroad
Where? Italy
When? June 10 - July 24, 2010
Why? It's Italy.. enough said
Can she take the challenge? Bring it on..

I am really amazing at how many people actually want to read my blog about Italy! I mean I hope I am interesting enough to keep you guys entertained... *jazz hands*? Anyway it's been a sad day.. so I really don't know what else to write besides I want to thank everyone who is supporting my trip to Italy!

2nd Pre-Italy Post!

So I got a lot of things done today for my departure! I made 2 copies of WAY too many documents, cards, and IDs. We decided what kind of cell phone to rent while I'm in Europe so I can call him in case of emergency. Oh and I now have some converters & adaptors to take over there so I don't blow up the outlets! I also have a new journal to write in, bubble wrap, 2 travel purses, and 3 books to read on the plane ride. I have been cleaning out my closet and in the process I have sort of mentally put together my suitcase but I'm scared because I have never packed for this long of a trip before! Actually, I've never been on a trip this long at all.. Anyway I have much appreciated all the advice I have been getting about Italy/Europe/travel/etc. because I really don't know what I'm doing!

I'll post again when I feel productive!

My New Blog

So I decided it would be a good idea to create a blog in order to write about my Italian shenanigans even though I don't leave until June 10.. Anyway this is my chance to be selfish and talk about my life :-D Luckily no one is required to even look at it! I picked up my visa today (and some euros!) which was really exciting because it wasn't a fiasco like last time. I also have a bunch of letters that let me get into the country.. It's amazing when I hear people say "Oh I'm moving to [insert country in Europe here]" because it must be a PAIN to get a visa to do that. I mean really.. It was crazy just trying to get a visa to study in Italy! Today we also went to the galleria where I lusted over some coach purses.. I'm not one to enjoy expensive items but they looked pretty fantastic (& there is a purple one).. which reminds me.. I must finish painting that purple desk & side table. Since my mind moves at a 100 mph I might changes subjects in this blog (you will have to deal with it)! I want to watch Roman Holiday because it really makes me excited about seeing the city. I can't wait to see vespas & eat gelato. Yes, gelato is the concentration of this trip apparently.. Anyway before the trip I still need to find out about renting a cell phone in Italy because my parents want me to be able to call home in an emergency.. I need to find out about euro rail tickets and see if I should travel a little while I'm over there. I need to order outlet converters, get traveler's cheques, make copies of all the important documents, buy some travel size stuff, and PACK! Speaking of which.. I hate that I may have to dress up :-( I feel comfy in my t-shirts but I don't want to stick out as an American. We will see how that goes..

Oh yeah and before I leave for Italy the other things I need to do: clean out my closet, give away stuffed animals, buy a new storage case for video games, take the DAT, write essays for the dental application, put grades into the dental application system on Tuesday, and pick up my dress from Meghan's mom. Sorry about the laundry lists but I like my random writing.


Arrivederci (spelling?!) or GOODBYE!
-Mary