Like this:

Buon Giorno!

                I’m on the airplane to Italy now! I have to say I’ve been waiting for this trip for 20 years (my whole life). You should have seen my Nonno at the airport this morning, not only is he reeking in jealousy, he is extremely proud that I’ve chosen to spend my summer in Italy. He’s always said he lives in the greatest country in the world only because of my Nonna, otherwise he’d have moved back to the actual greatest country in the world (Italy) at his first chance. “Did you know America was named for an Italian, Clara?” he used to always ask me! (America was named for Amerigo Vespucci in 1507 after a pamphlet wrong named his as the discovered instead of the man who realized that it was a separate landmass – can you tell I’ve heard this plenty of times?) (36) Anyway, back to my anticipation of my awesome trip J! I’m flying into Venice now. I’ll spend a couple days there before taking another train to Florence to explore the amazing architecture and art in the city of the Renaissance. I’m ending my trip in Rome. I’ll be there for 4 ½ days living with my Great Uncle and cousins. I’m really excited because it’s been years since I’ve seen most of them. Maria studied in New York for a semester just over a year ago, so I got to spend time with her.  She said she might even take me down to see Pompeii for a day, since I showed her around Washington DC over Fall Break. I asked her if she misses the states or just me last night. She said, “I miss my friends and family. I miss traveling where I have never been. But I do not miss the weather and my health.” Used to the Mediterranean climates, Maria was not happy with the cool fall and cold winter months she got to spend in New York and the amount of time she spent in doctor’s offices and hospitals. “In Italy I do not have to pay anything, but I wait in longer lines sometimes. Plus, we are ranked number 2 by the World Health Organization. Cousin Marco is well past the 80 year life expectancy at 94 and it’s all because of our beautiful climate.” It’s funny how quickly conversations become playfully competitive. We’re about to land! Venice Calls! I’ll write in a few days!

Ciao,

Clara

Advertisement