Hello,
I am now officially out of Italy, at a hotel in London as we fly out tomorrow for Arkansas! It is a bittersweet day.
My mom and I had a wonderful, amazing time in our travels through Florence, Roma, and Capri. Mom loved all of what she saw, learned, and experienced as I knew she would. I have successfully converted another fan for Italy! (not that I really needed to do anything to convert a fan).
As I reflect over this season's experiences I am thankful for the support of you all from home. As an Italian man said to me yesterday, "Every place you visit you must leave something untouched to go back to". I more than 'visit' Arkansas, but knowing I have family and friends to come home to make this transition easier and more than that, life worth living.
Being away from the security and love of friends and family was difficult at times and helped me to realize how truly I do value and believe relationships are the meaning of life.
I have many, many stories. I hope to share these with you all over time, as well as pictures, cooking, and travel tips for Italy when and if you decide to go. In the mean time as C.S Lewis says, when we love something we naturally praise it, thank you for listening to my praise and love for this country and way of life. Thank you for being a part of my adventure. Natalie