What was your favorite part of this week?My favorite part of my week, was probably enjoying the little things. I went to Verona and it was INCREDIBLE, but I’m also enjoying the small moments spent at home with my family. We had some rainy weather that made me so happy, and I loved getting to share some “traditions” of mine with my family (which was really just a cozy afternoon with a good book or movie and hot drink!). 

What was the most difficult or challenging part of this week?The hardest part for me this week was feeling out of place when we would go out to local spots to spend time with friends (of my family). There was a large celebration for the end of school, which was really fun-but when everyone would get talking for long periods of time in Italian, I would feel a little out of place and not know what to do. Luckily, people would catch on to my awkwardness and try to clue me in or make me feel more included in the conversation.

Tell us about a “wow” moment you had this week.

I spent time when everyone was taking a nap/relaxing cleaning up messes, washing dishes, sweeping, and tidying the house.

Tell us about your week!I had a great week! We had some rainy weather that I was so thankful for (cooler temperatures) and I loved it. I spent a little time riding my bike around with Alice, and we had fun playing in the rain. It was special for me to be able to share my rainy day rituals with her — We spent a few minutes watching a fun movie and sipping on hot drinks when the weather was too heavy to go outside, and I loved it! One of the evenings, I was able to watch Harry Potter (IN ENGLISH!) and that in itself was like a treasure. School got out this week, and there was a big celebration at a local spot that resembled something of a carnival (sans the rides and games). It was so crowded and there was a big dance floor outside with live music, so it was cool to watch everyone do all of these classic pertnered dances. We took a jump rope to get all the kids involved, and it was fun to interact with everyone. 

As for my weekend, I headed over to Verona and it was incredible! It exceeded my expectations for sure. It was absolutely beautiful and it was cool to get to see some of the scenic spots that I have heard so much about (like the amphitheater, the upper city, Juliet’s balcony, or the wall with all of the letters). I am becoming a skilled packer, and feel very talanted when I can pack everything into a small backpack! I can’t wait to continue my journey!