As the third week comes to a close here in this new Italian fairytale that we call life, it’s so hard not to look back on everything we’ve been able to do and see so far and radiate thankfulness. This trip has already been more than I could have ever imagined that it would be, and I am so excited to think back on some of the things we have done.
In the last week alone, we have hiked one of the most historic volcanoes this side of the common era, run through gardens once graced by the set of the Lizzie McGuire Movie (at Villa d’Este), cruised the Amalfi coast by private yacht, and seen a Bastille song come to life in the ancient ruins of Pompeii. Every place that we have seen so far has been incredible, and I can’t wait to see what these next two months have in store.
All of these once in a lifetime experiences have been awesome, but honestly what has made this trip so great has been getting to do all of this with 19 of the coolest girls Auburn has to offer. To tell you that we are all the same person, and completely functional at all times would be a flat out lie, but where our differences leave holes, it is so cool to be able to see friendships fill them. As cheesy as it sounds, these people have already made this trip incredible, and they are the reason every day has been so much fun.
Speaking of cheese, you’re probably wondering where on earth this blog post title came from. No, I did not rob the supermercato, and no, in my time here I haven’t experienced someone who has. But I would, however, like to formally apologize to the town of Ariccia for single handedly consuming 1/4th of their cheese. Ricotta, Pecorino, and Parmesan, oh my. And in Italy, add pasta to that and you have the four main food groups. Food here has all been so fresh, and, just like the scenery, incredible. After three short weeks this place already feels like home, and I am so unbelievably thankful for it all.
-Andrea Rocchi
The whole crew in Pompeii