Living the questions, one moment at a time.

Sunday, April 29, 2012

One of These Things is Not Like the Other

I'm a traveling girl this week. My friend from UMass, Ashley, is studying in Cork, Ireland. I arrived late Friday night for my visit with her. This trip is wonderful in that I can just take everything in and not run around; I don't love when I have only a weekend to see a place. It feels frantic. As I'm obviously feeling several emotions at the moment, Cork is the perfect place to relax for awhile. It has some wonderful sites, but is way more about just feeling the atmosphere rather than cramming in a packed itinerary. All I really wanted was beautiful scenery and an authentic pub experience anyway...

Let me start off by giving a shout-out to my brother, Robbie. Kid, I know how you feel now. I know how you feel when you are the lone redhead in our immediate family. I know I make fun of you for it (milkman jokes? Woops!), but you are special in your own way. You keep on being that awesome redhead. Because for the last two days, I've been experiencing your problem in reverse.

NO ONE is brunette here!

Seriously. Ashley says if anyone does have dark hair, it's probably dyed. I have only seen blondes and gingers! It's a whole new world! I have never felt like I stood out more. Actually, that's not true. Volunteering in Holyoke, MA last semester represented a similar experience. But that's besides the point.

What is most wonderful about the Irish people? They don't care if you stick out like a sore thumb! I started to get a good vibe from this place when I had a seven minute conversation about life with the man at passport control. Guy was pumped to see me. And the women on my flight? Talked to me like I was an old friend. How about the man Ash and I ran into on the way out of Mass this morning? Asked where we were from, and invited us to coffee with him and his elderly male friends on the spot! (Or, in his words, "How about some coffee with some old, married men?")

But seriously, I've never met friendlier strangers. The Irish do hospitality well. And speaking of Mass, I have brought my tally up to four. That is, I've gone to church in four different countries this semester! Every time had a distinct feel to it. This morning, Ashley and I went to church in Gaelic! What a beautiful language. The music sounded perfectly Irish. Just guitar. And the cathedral wasn't too shabby either. Lots of stunning pastels-yellows and pinks and greens. Pictures to come at the end of my Ireland jaunt. For now, I'm taking it easy.

Friday, April 27, 2012

Tante Belle Cose

Yesterday, tears swimming behind my eyes and thoughts of the impossible goodbyes on the horizon permeating my thoughts, a very special person looked me in the eye and said, "tante belle cose." She smiled when she said it. Translation? "Many beautiful things." I wish you so many beautiful things.

This expression is my new favorite. Not only because of the circumstances surrounding it at the time, but because of what it represents. I could write a really long post about how sad I am to leave. Because truth is, I've cried for a substantial portion of the last 48 hours. I know that I'm sad. However, the last week was filled with the most beautiful moments. But what does beautiful even mean? I like this definition, as it really touches me: "a meaningful personality in which spiritual qualities are manifest." I want to share a few of the people, moments, and memories from the last week that have this kind of soul.

At the beginning of the week, I said goodbye to my high schoolers. These kids are seriously the best. They all pitched in and bought me a school sweatshirt, so I'll always keep the memories fresh. They also made me a beautiful card. They insisted that I kneel in the middle of the group with my sweatshirt on in the following picture so that they could "all be close to me." So cute. This internship was the experience of a lifetime. I will always treasure my time at Alessi, and have several new Facebook friends!

Silly kids! :)

We had absolutely gorgeous weather yesterday (our last day). My last final behind me, I sat for over two hours on the steps people watching, writing, and just taking in the stunning blue sky. It was really one of those "I feel so small" moments that I love so much. I thrive on that feeling that I am part of something so much bigger than myself. Friends came in an out, but it was also really a chance for me to reflect. With incredible scenery. Those steps are probably one of my favorite places in Perugia. So symbolic of the city's nature.

These shades are actually 3D glasses. 

Not a bad view from here


And of course, some last pictures of the hills. It didn't even look real.





And a goodbye to my Italian family. That was rough. Before our farewell dinner last night, Leti and I made a special visit one last time. Francesca, our Italian sister, was crying by the end. Which of course set off a domino effect! She's such a funny girl, and dreams of visiting America. You can tell by her room.



Thank you, Vigneris, for making us a part of your family.

"Sisters" don't have to be blood related!

And last, but certainly not least: I've talked roommates. I've talked Italian family and high schoolers. But, as it turns out, my most difficult goodbyes last night were with some of the Umbra staff.

These people are seriously top notch. They each have a job title, but we joke that they can pretty much do anything and everything. Smell gas in your apartment during your first week that is actually just a normal heater smell? Mauro shows up to reassure you. Have to go to the doctor? Someone will go with you to translate and act as moral support. It it isn't just the practical things. These are brilliant minds who have lived so much life. Some really special conversations occurred last night as I struggled to leave. Let's just say that sitting in a circle with a few twenty/thirty-something-year-old girls, who have seen the world and done incredible things, and listening to them tell you that your whole life is ahead of you...really stuck with me, and will for a lifetime. I hope they know how much I treasure the time I spent with all of them. I know it's never goodbye.



And roomies again

That being said, this semester represented a beautiful turning point in my life. I am still processing this change, and will definitely write more about it in the coming days and weeks. Currently, I am sitting in the Rome airport, waiting for my flight to Cork, Ireland. Ireland until the 2nd, London until the 6th...then back to Rome for my flight out to the United States. Everything is coming full circle. Just like it always does.

For now, I am telling myself: Tante Belle Cose. Only a beautiful life from here.



Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Benincasa 24

I've realized that all semester, I've been throwing around "my roomies" and individual names. But these are wonderfully unique people. I'm starting to tear up just writing this, but here is an ode to the four beautiful girls who have changed my life.

From left: Erin, Michelle, Dani, Ashley
Dani is seriously a piece of work. I don't think one day has gone by when she has not caused me to nearly pee myself. In fact, there have been a few times when I've actually had to sprint to the bathroom because she had me in a dangerous giggling fit. A theater major, Dani regales us with her tales of past performances. She has killer impressions, and can imitate almost any face or voice with perfection. She loves Beyonce, and we've had frequent dance parties in the kitchen to "Love on Top." Dani also has the privilege of sharing a room with me, so we have gotten especially used to each other's habits. If this says anything, Joey met her and proceeded to ask me, "Can she come entertain us this summer?"I am going to miss her terribly.

Erin is a goofball. We joke that we are the perfect "hug match" because she is a head taller than me so we fit perfectly! She does brilliant impersonations from the movie Bridesmaids (seems to have been a favorite this semester). Not to mention, she makes amazing eggplant parm. Erin has the best smile. I can come home after a stressful day, and she's ready with some witty comments and a flashing grin that immediately puts me in a good mood. I will miss her hilarious antics!

Michelle has joked that she's "Mom" in that she's a year older than the rest of us. But truth is, I haven't met anyone who is more compassionate and caring. Not only has she rescued me from a locked apartment, but, more importantly, she and I have talked through quite a lot. A fellow psych major, we enjoy that. :) Michelle and I come from opposite ends of the country (she's a Cali girl) so it's been really fun to talk about our hometowns. Fun fact: Easy A was filmed at her high school!

Ashley. She's such a beautiful spirit. Ashley can seriously take over the world if she wants to. She is so passionate and driven, and absolutely loves people. We have similar values, and I've had very emotional life conversations with her that I will absolutely keep with me forever. Ashley and I are both old souls, and it has been an incredible blessing to be in the presence of such a wise girl. I am confident that many trips to Philly are in the cards for me.


The other day, the girls and I bought bracelets and engraved on them "Benincasa 24," the address of our apartment. We joked that if we ever have to take it off for any reason, "Benincasa 24" best be tattooed on our bodies somewhere. I don't know about them, but I never plan on taking mine off.



To Ashley, Erin, Dani, and Michelle: It's not goodbye. It's NEVER goodbye.

It's "talk to you everyday."

It's "see you this summer."

It's "see you later."




Monday, April 23, 2012

These Are The Moments

About a week ago, one of my roomies declared that "these are the moments" and started whipping out her camera for every little thing. This kind of became a joke, and now, with our impending departure on Friday, has inspired us to document everything. This includes but is not limited to strange and random moments like completing homework, dancing, and Maria eating three spoonfuls of sugar in quick succession (long story behind that one. Maybe I'll tell it one day...)

Here are some "moments" with explanations when necessary...and some of what I'll miss!

One. The KITTIES. Mad-Eye Moody (one with cocked neck and squinty eye), Cracker Jack, and the gang. These guys are pretty dang elusive; there are like six of them and they hang around, but the second you get particularly close (especially with a camera) they sprint! This subpar photograph took almost five minutes to capture. Cracker Jack loves to sit on cars, and Mad-Eye hangs out by the food that the neighbors leave...these strays are very well-fed. Only in Italy!

Just roaming my streets

Two. Diva moments in the apartment. Usually involving Dani. Or really any moment in the apartment.


 Three. My beautiful morning walks to my internship.



Four. Late night cornetto from Mamas or Papas...aka "secret bakery"


Okay, so this is one that probably needs explaining. After a late night out (or morning...usually around 2 or 3) we go to one of the local bakeries for a pastry (only one euro!). The bakers are in their shops at those hours to make their goods for the day. But here's where the rebellious fun comes in: it's actually illegal for them to be selling at that hour because of some time law. So here's the scene: about twenty people waiting outside a barred door, peeking in while the baker whips out some yummy stuff and passes it through the door opening.  It's like the black market of food! 


More to come! 


Sunday, April 22, 2012

The Papas Take Italy: Episode Two

I met my family in Rome this weekend for twenty-four hours of touring and fun. My going to bed at 5am Thursday night probably wasn't the best idea, as I was a bit tired but quickly forgot about it.

Some of my favorite family pictures from the weekend: Christmas card material? :)



Always the entertainer

Okay, okay...I look like Jules


A bit disturbed that Joey is approaching Maria height

"Do you think I can break in there?"



 So glad my family got to see Italy, and will understand my impending depression in the coming weeks. I know they had a blast! They said that Perugia was the favorite part of their trip though. Not surprised. Hope we can all make it back someday.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

When Words Fail

This past Tuesday, I had my final presentations for both my "Family Project" and my education internship. Several groups from different classes presented their experiences, research, etc. on the same day. We made our way to a beautiful auditorium to talk about what we've learned this semester. After a special prayer with my presentation group, a hug from my Italian family (who were there to cheer us on), and a thumbs up from my mom, I approached the panel with Leti to talk about our experiences with the Vigneri family. As I looked out at the crowd of people I've grown to love immensely, it hit me. Sometimes, we can't express our feelings adequately.

Yes, I blog. But recently, words are failing me. When I looked out, I didn't see a crowd. I saw my classmates giving smiles of support. I saw my favorite staff members. I saw my life here. Dramatic? Maybe a little. But it's the truth.

Yay presentations!

This week, I had the blessing of introducing Mom to the people here who are so special to me. I can't tell you how many times I heard "your mom is amazing!" It was interesting to have my "worlds" collide in a sense. Home in the United States meets home in Italy. Jules met the Umbra staff members who have taken wonderful care of me. She met the friends whose apartments I frequent. I can't describe how amazing that felt.

I am always amazed by how quickly I can make very close friends. During one late night conversation with my roommates, someone described study abroad friendships as relationships in hyperdrive. I couldn't agree more. January is like freshman year of college. Everyone is still figuring each other out, and relationships are beginning to form. February (sophomore year) is when the foundations start to happen. People shift around, and homesickness and difficulties can arise. March (junior year), the incredible bonding really takes place. And when April finally hits, you look back at the last four months, the four months that seemed like a lifetime when you landed in Rome on that January morning, and wonder how on earth you will ever live without seeing each other every day.

Later, I will post about specific people. But for now, I am thinking of my Umbra group at large. And what a special group it was.

Try summarizing THAT.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

The Papas Take Perugia: Episode One

The Papapietros have landed! Late Sunday afternoon, I stood anxiously at the train station waiting for Joey and Robbie's smiling faces, my mom's tears, etc. Or not. I realized how much information I forgot to give to mom about traveling to Perugia, so I'm realizing as I stand there that there's a ninety percent chance that they won't get off the train. And they don't! I take the MiniMetro back up the hill, thinking I'll check their hotel. Sure enough, I see two taxis pull up right in front of me with five heads. Robbie's head. Mom's head. Oh, there's Joey's head! Thankfully, they only got off one stop too soon and were able to get a cab up. I think Jules thought the daughter emailing her for the last 3.5 months was a figment of her imagination, so needless to say she was over the moon to see her baby all in one piece. This is the longest I've ever gone without seeing her. I definitely had tears!

The Papas are now as officially as in love with Perugia as I am (well that's not quite possible, but three days here is enough for any visitor to be in love).

Exhibit A: Took the fam to Pizza Med. Here are some initial reactions:


Joey (and Auntie MB) sample the local wine selection.
In fact, they loved the pizza so much, we brought it back to my apartment to eat with my roomies the second night. Let's just say, the Papas and the roommates totally hit it off...so much so that several Perugia roomie trips to Cape Cod are in the works this summer. They probably wouldn't even have to involve me, Joey is enough entertainment...

Speaking of Joey, kid was hilarious.

Contemplating life on the steps
I took him to my internship at Alessi early Tuesday morning...he was a hit! The girls kept saying "Carino!" which means cute. Lucia was amazing enough to give Joey a tour of the high school after class! I had never even been down to the labs, but the school has equipment from the school's whole history, even vials that were damaged during Mussolini's regime. Pretty fascinating. The faculty is always so gracious to me, and they were even more excited to have a "fratellino" (baby brother) here from the United States!

After Joey's tour, I took him up to Umbra for a T-shirt and a look around. This quick trip ended up lasting over an hour, with Joey charming the female staff members with phrases like, "Yeah, they (the high school girls) were just lining up for me." Needless to say, everyone kept asking about him today, and they're all hoping he comes to Perugia for a stint abroad in eight or nine years!

Unfortunately, I had a busy week of presentations and activities (although they were AMAZING...more on that in the next post!) My family went to Assisi by themselves, and thankfully the weather was beautiful. They loved it! It brought back wonderful memories of my trip to the Basilica back in February.

Two gelato runs a day, practicing my Italian translation skills, hugs from mom, demonstrating my increased confidence and independence...these are just a few of the reasons the last few days with them were so wonderful. Today they are headed to Florence. Way more pictures when I meet up with them again in Rome this weekend!

Sunday, April 15, 2012

Maria, did you REALLY think that?!

Looking back, I laugh at some of the "Italy Imaginings" in my head before I arrived. Boy, was I wrong sometimes! Here are some of the things that went through my mind, and why they were (GULP) wrong. 

1) "My Rome landing on January 6th, 2012, will involve beautiful airplane views of the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps."

Correction: Maria, can you even see fountains from that high? Not to mention, FCO is actually 40km outside of Rome, kind of in the middle of nowhere. But nice try girl. 

2) "Italians eat pasta and pizza all the time." 

Correction: Not completely untrue, but definitely not true. I should have realized this since I come from an Italian family and pasta is definitely not all we eat, but how did I know Italy itself wasn't different? The "primi" menu in most restaurants is actually mainly composed of pasta dishes. And there are several amazing pizza places around. However, there is obviously a lot more to the Italian diet (like vegetables and meat). My roommates and I actually tend to cook meals centered around veggies. Can't complain! 

3) "All of Italy will look like Tuscany."

Correction: Did I not think that Italy had a single factory? Or shopping mall? I guess I imagined a giant countryside. Which, after spending two weekends in a row in Naples a few weeks back, definitely isn't the case. 

4) "All Italian families will have tons of kids."

Correction: I guess for this one, I was going off the fact that my dad is one of seven. But Italy these days has one of the lowest birthrates in Europe. One to two kiddos is typical, and more than that is rare. 



...what study abroad teaches you!

Friday, April 13, 2012

Paris Scrapbook

A lot of special moments this week. Inspiring conversations, delicious dinners with my roommates, and the anticipation of my family's arrival on Sunday!

In the meantime, some Paris memories:


The Louvre

Guess this art is pretty famous or something...


Musee Orsay...a museum in an old railroad station! It was my fave.

Notre Dame

So massive


Street jazz band...they were AMAZING. Wish I bought a CD.



Going up! Who needs to work out...

Top with Ash!

Paris views

All lit up and flashing

Macaroons should be their own food group

Sacre Coeur


Nom nom nom


First thought when I saw the Arc de Triomphe: Oh, I saw the Nazis march under that in my World War II documentaries. #majornerdstatus

Most expensive street in the world!

Continued

My 6 euro hot chocolate, but worth every penny.

Paris was the perfect place to spend Easter. I had a calm, reflective weekend walking the narrow streets, beautiful parks, and river paths. It's impossible to do Paris in three days, however. (Probably not even in a hundred). So I'll be back. Maybe with a date next time. :)