The New View

I have moved into my Bolognese apartment. It feels like home already...now that I’m settled here, I might write more...

I am living with two Italian women, Laura and Sabrina; both thirty, both working in law; both chic and interesting and kind, with beautiful voices. They are gone most of the time during the week, so I will typically have the apartment to myself. Last Sunday we all stayed in, they cooked for me, and we talked for hours over coffee. They have been truly wonderful.

Tonight, I walked to the grocery store around the corner. Purchasing ingredients and making myself dinner here feels like quite the accomplishment. I am proudest of the simplest things, really--knowing where I am going, handling transactions in Italian with relative ease. 

Already I sense the days passing quickly. Fifteen days have flown; I am certain the six months will roll by in no time at all. But I've never felt more connected with an experience; I am beginning to understand more deeply how existence with awereness, gratitude, joy is overwhelmingly precious. 

I absolutely love it here. 

Oh. My neighbors...lots of adorable elderly Italians, moms and dads pushing strollers, young professionals. I don't think it is appropriate to use the word "suburb," but I walk for a good thirty minutes to get to the city-center; a lovely, beautiful, relaxing walk. My building is located next to a charmingly specific chess shop. Also, a carabinieri office. 

Oh yes, I absolutely love it here.