Happy Independence Day America!

During the past nine weeks in Italy, we have learned a lot about the Italian culture and history. We have dived into how they eat, live, and interact with one another. As we approach the most important holiday of American history, we are beginning to miss certain things about America. Spending three months in Italy has opened our eyes to the American conveniences that we otherwise take for granted. I know that we will never take for granted free bathrooms, free refills, free water, ice, or air conditioning ever again. However, I think that this study abroad program is a very important life lesson. We learn that people live differently all around the world. For example, Italians lead a relaxed lifestyle compared to the hustle and bustle of Americans. Restaurants are not worried about the turnover rate, instead, they want you to sit and enjoy your meal for hours. I believe that because of our trip, we will have an advantage over other job applicants when entering into the real world. We will have experiences and certain views of the world that not everyone is fortunate to have.

Speaking of different ways to live, this week we had the privilege to serve the homeless at Caritas in Rome. Italy has given us so much this summer and has taught us more than we will ever learn. So it is important for us to give back to Italy. Serving the homeless was a really humbling experience. As I was serving them their last meal of the day, I thought to myself, “Here we are spending thousands of dollars to study in Italy, while these people have nothing”. Although it was difficult seeing these people struggle, everyone really enjoyed serving them and making a difference in their lives.

Because we are traveling to Cinque Terre today. We decided to have our American Fourth of July cookout last night. We cooked hamburgers, corn, devilled eggs, oven roasted potatoes, chips, watermelon, pineapple, and Nutella pies. It was DELICIOUS!

So here’s to you America, adorned in our rosso, bianco, and blu. Happy 4th of July!

Kitchen Crew at Caritas the homeless shelter. Caitlin Page, Kathryn Davis, Leslie Kimball, Shelby Edwards, and Cinzia Bracalente

Fourth of July Cookout

“American” Hamburgers

Ciao!

Written by: Kathryn Davis