I'm out of control. This morning when I was getting on the plane to go to Georgia I saw a little American flag on our delta airplane and I teared up. It was ridiculous. But seriously, I love America. And home.
There have been some great phrases I've heard everyday:
"When in Rome..."
"Cancel it"
"Let's get 'em"
"It's cause we're fat kids"
"I'm over it"
"Is this real life?"
"It's a hike"
"Hope I didn't oversell that one"
There are plenty more but those are the best.
I can't wait to get home and hug my mom and dad, eat waffles with crunchy peanut butter, hang out with the SSS, drink lemonade, and have Mexican food.
I've learned so much from this trip: what traveling too long can do to your sanity, that skipping through the town with a 6 year old screaming like a pterodactyl is acceptable, that being the last person out of the room means carrying Tyler's luggage around Greece, that if you get too close to the door on the bus it will come back and smack you out of the way, that Americans don't deserve verbal responses because we're apparently too retarded, gelatto really is at the bottom of the food group with at least 2 servings a day, fat kids on drugs can accomplish Rome in one day, that petting a Greek cat will give you cat fever, that every weird, hickish, or unnatural thing that happens is a direct result of me being from Elko, business visits after 15 hour flights turn into nap time, Sozur is slang for shiz in Turkey, anything orange in Turkey should be avoided at all costs(aka Sozure and Easy Jet), bus and train rides lasting longer than 2 hours turn into an psych ward, 40 single college students with a no dating policy makes for very apparent and intense sexual tension, 40 Americans dragging their luggage around Europe has become the new popular reality tv show to Asians, wi-fi makes for a good lobby party, and so much more.
More importantly I've learned that it's impossible not to love 40 people you spend 24/7 with for a month, not to judge anyone because you don't know anything and people will surprise you, how blessed I am to live in the United States of America, no matter what beautiful place you go home is where your heart is, and in the long run everything will be ok-maybe even better.
This experience has been the time of my life. I'm so grateful for it and I'll never forget any of this. We really are so blessed to live in this country and I'll never take it for granted again.
Thank you all for caring about me and reading about my life for the past month. I can't wait to see you all and tell you about it in person!
To fat kids: see you at Cafe Rio.
To Morghen: we'll always have Santorini. And Delphi. And Florence. And Bern. And Elko!! :)
To mom: please stop worrying now. I love you and I'll see you soon. :)
To study abroad: Love you all and thank you for everything.
God be with you 'til we meet again.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland to Zurich, Switzerland
Waking up this morning in paradise made it hard for me to realize that in another day I will be waking up in my bed at home.
I was super sore from yesterday's hike which I love but I couldn't decide whether or not to go kayaking. I eventually sucked it up and went with Mike, Ryan, yulee, and 2 fat kids (Kelly and Morghen). We took a train to Interlaken and from there went on a walk along the river to the kayaking place.
Morghen and I decided to kayak together. Not so successful. Our kayak really wanted us to go in the direction opposite that we wanted to go.
It ended up being such a fun time. We paddled hard for a while and then decided we really had no where to go. So we layer in our giant life jackets in our kayak in the middle of the lake and chilled. And sang Dirt Road Anthem(song of the trip). Sitting there in the sun in the middle of the lake in the Alps at the end of the best trip was one of the most peaceful moments I've ever had. It was so beautiful all around me.
We kayaked/didn't for 2 hours and then we walked back to Interlaken and shopped at coop. Then we took the train back to Lauterbrunnen.
We were pretty tired so we chilled in our lobby for a while until our bus arrived. Then we all got on and drove to Zurich. We had a devotional by the directors and then we wrote down 3 things. 1: the first thing we're going to do when we get back to the states. I said flush a normal toilet. Paper and all. 2: one thing we'll never take for granted again. I said people speaking the same language as you and being able to understand what you're saying. We read those on the bus and number 3 is being saved for the reunion in september. But we had to write the funniest moment on the trip.
So apparently the hotel we were supposed to be in forgot that we were coming an couldn't just make room for 40 people so they had to put us in a different hotel. And by different I mean a Hilton 5 star hotel. Yeah no big deal. It was pretty sweet. But I'm pretty sure the 5 star hotels in America are held at a much higher standard. It was pretty sweet though.
A whole bunch of us crowded in Kelly and melanie's room and talked like the entire night. Then Morghen and I decided to have an herbal tea party at like 12:30. I got to room with Jessica Leavitt my last night which was great because I love her. We talked until like 1:30 and now I should be heading to bed because tomorrow it's back home. It's going to be the longest day of my life. Literally. I'll wake up at 6:30 Switzerland time get on the plane at 10, have a 10 hour flight to Georgia where it will only be 2 in the afternoon and then get on a flight at 5 to salt lake where I'll arrive at 6:39. Then it's a 4ish hour drive to Elko which means I get in at about 9 if my mom drives(a little later if my dad does). Then I'm gunna go visit my best friend, Lauren, cause I miss her which means my day ends at about 1 am. So I'm gaining 9 hours in my day tomorrow and looking at about a 33 hour day. Yeah buddy I'm gunna be tired. But it'll be SO worth it!
I was super sore from yesterday's hike which I love but I couldn't decide whether or not to go kayaking. I eventually sucked it up and went with Mike, Ryan, yulee, and 2 fat kids (Kelly and Morghen). We took a train to Interlaken and from there went on a walk along the river to the kayaking place.
Morghen and I decided to kayak together. Not so successful. Our kayak really wanted us to go in the direction opposite that we wanted to go.
It ended up being such a fun time. We paddled hard for a while and then decided we really had no where to go. So we layer in our giant life jackets in our kayak in the middle of the lake and chilled. And sang Dirt Road Anthem(song of the trip). Sitting there in the sun in the middle of the lake in the Alps at the end of the best trip was one of the most peaceful moments I've ever had. It was so beautiful all around me.
We kayaked/didn't for 2 hours and then we walked back to Interlaken and shopped at coop. Then we took the train back to Lauterbrunnen.
We were pretty tired so we chilled in our lobby for a while until our bus arrived. Then we all got on and drove to Zurich. We had a devotional by the directors and then we wrote down 3 things. 1: the first thing we're going to do when we get back to the states. I said flush a normal toilet. Paper and all. 2: one thing we'll never take for granted again. I said people speaking the same language as you and being able to understand what you're saying. We read those on the bus and number 3 is being saved for the reunion in september. But we had to write the funniest moment on the trip.
So apparently the hotel we were supposed to be in forgot that we were coming an couldn't just make room for 40 people so they had to put us in a different hotel. And by different I mean a Hilton 5 star hotel. Yeah no big deal. It was pretty sweet. But I'm pretty sure the 5 star hotels in America are held at a much higher standard. It was pretty sweet though.
A whole bunch of us crowded in Kelly and melanie's room and talked like the entire night. Then Morghen and I decided to have an herbal tea party at like 12:30. I got to room with Jessica Leavitt my last night which was great because I love her. We talked until like 1:30 and now I should be heading to bed because tomorrow it's back home. It's going to be the longest day of my life. Literally. I'll wake up at 6:30 Switzerland time get on the plane at 10, have a 10 hour flight to Georgia where it will only be 2 in the afternoon and then get on a flight at 5 to salt lake where I'll arrive at 6:39. Then it's a 4ish hour drive to Elko which means I get in at about 9 if my mom drives(a little later if my dad does). Then I'm gunna go visit my best friend, Lauren, cause I miss her which means my day ends at about 1 am. So I'm gaining 9 hours in my day tomorrow and looking at about a 33 hour day. Yeah buddy I'm gunna be tired. But it'll be SO worth it!
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
K so remember how I said that our hotel was supposed to be the "rustic" one? Well this morning at breakfast we had bacon and eggs!! Europe doesn't believe in warm breakfast foods!! It was a Christmas miracle. Even if I hate bacon. It was so nice to see it.
After breakfast I went with my roommate Kristin to the grocery store and then at 12 we set off on our hike.
We (Mike, kristin, yulee, Ryan, the bryants, Chelsea, harmony and I) started with a prayer and then straight up the mountain side.
This was brutal. It was crazy switchbacks. Super steep and we started with a crazy pace. That combined with the super high altitude and asthma was a death sentence for me. There were so many times when I really thought I couldn't go any further but we made it to the first town in an hour. Supposed to take us an hour and a half. And I have this thing where I push myself really hard to do things I don't think I can. So obviously I didn't give up :) it got a little easier but then it got super steep again. My legs and back and butt were burning. But all of the beautiful sights along the way were worth it. It was so my element. I love the outdoors and I love exploring.
It was brutal but I made it. We stopped at the top and opposite side of the mountain next to our hotel. It was an incredible view of "The Top of Europe" as it's called. Thats the 3 tallest peaks in Europe: the Monch, Jungfrau, and Eiger. The view was incredible. We were sitting eight in front of them and could easily and in great detail see the 3 peaks. It was incredible. All of the pain and sweat and lack of air was worth it.
We made it up in about 3 and a half hours. We took a 40ish minute break at the top and then went back down. It was so steep that there were many parts where we had to run. It was insane. And just as we were finishing, it started to drizzle. It was absolutely perfect. I'm so glad I did it though. I was so proud of myself. And who can say that they hiked one of the craziest places in the Swiss alps? This girl. :)
I was exhausted afterwards. Running down a mountain side is crazy on your knees and feet. We got back a little baby bit before 7 and just as I was taking my shoes off Morghen came in and we walked to the grocery store. I had some delicious carrots. Yumm.
Then we came back and went to this cute little folklore thing across from our hotel. I loved it. It's those little things that make me love a town. I love Elko because of the small things it does like the rodeo and fair and art in the park. This folklore thing sealed the deal for me. I love Switzerland. I legit wouldn't mind living here. It's my fav.
We came back to my room and pigged out and watched J shore and chilled. It felt so nice. Unbelievably nice.
My roommates: Alexis and Kristin. I talked about Alexis cause we were supposed to be rookies previously but Kristin is a junior I do believe. She's super sweet. I really like her. She's so athletic too. She didn't train at all for a marathon and ran 22 miles straight, took a break and finished it. Who does that? She's awesome.
Switzerland is heaven.
After breakfast I went with my roommate Kristin to the grocery store and then at 12 we set off on our hike.
We (Mike, kristin, yulee, Ryan, the bryants, Chelsea, harmony and I) started with a prayer and then straight up the mountain side.
This was brutal. It was crazy switchbacks. Super steep and we started with a crazy pace. That combined with the super high altitude and asthma was a death sentence for me. There were so many times when I really thought I couldn't go any further but we made it to the first town in an hour. Supposed to take us an hour and a half. And I have this thing where I push myself really hard to do things I don't think I can. So obviously I didn't give up :) it got a little easier but then it got super steep again. My legs and back and butt were burning. But all of the beautiful sights along the way were worth it. It was so my element. I love the outdoors and I love exploring.
It was brutal but I made it. We stopped at the top and opposite side of the mountain next to our hotel. It was an incredible view of "The Top of Europe" as it's called. Thats the 3 tallest peaks in Europe: the Monch, Jungfrau, and Eiger. The view was incredible. We were sitting eight in front of them and could easily and in great detail see the 3 peaks. It was incredible. All of the pain and sweat and lack of air was worth it.
We made it up in about 3 and a half hours. We took a 40ish minute break at the top and then went back down. It was so steep that there were many parts where we had to run. It was insane. And just as we were finishing, it started to drizzle. It was absolutely perfect. I'm so glad I did it though. I was so proud of myself. And who can say that they hiked one of the craziest places in the Swiss alps? This girl. :)
I was exhausted afterwards. Running down a mountain side is crazy on your knees and feet. We got back a little baby bit before 7 and just as I was taking my shoes off Morghen came in and we walked to the grocery store. I had some delicious carrots. Yumm.
Then we came back and went to this cute little folklore thing across from our hotel. I loved it. It's those little things that make me love a town. I love Elko because of the small things it does like the rodeo and fair and art in the park. This folklore thing sealed the deal for me. I love Switzerland. I legit wouldn't mind living here. It's my fav.
We came back to my room and pigged out and watched J shore and chilled. It felt so nice. Unbelievably nice.
My roommates: Alexis and Kristin. I talked about Alexis cause we were supposed to be rookies previously but Kristin is a junior I do believe. She's super sweet. I really like her. She's so athletic too. She didn't train at all for a marathon and ran 22 miles straight, took a break and finished it. Who does that? She's awesome.
Switzerland is heaven.
Bern, Switzerland to Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
This Morning we woke up and went to the temple near Bern. It was super pretty. Some of the older groupies went earlier and did a session but us others just took pictures outside. It was really pretty.
After everyone was done we went into this pretty little grove and had devotional. Tyler gave it and even though it had nothing to do with missionary work, it made me appreciate missionaries so much. They really do learn to love the people they serve. It's pretty incredible to see.
I walked around in the grove for a little while and took in everything. Thought about the whole trip and everything that I had experienced. It was definitely a moment.
We got back on the bus and drove to the grocery store. Which we all love. I'll totes miss coop.
Then we drove to Interlaken and went to the train station. It had the prettiest grassy area with flowers and the bluest sky with the most awesome mountains in the background. I can't wait to post the pictures!! I slept and right outside my window was a little stream that was running. I loved it.
After we ate we went to Lauterbrunnen and checked in. We had to be in 2 separate hotels because one couldn't fit us all so all the boys and 7 "lucky" girls got to stay in the "rustic" (as doctor money said) hotel. Guess who got chosen as one of the seven. This girl. Of course.
However, when we got there, our hotel was really nice. We actually ended up getting the better hotel. It's so cool because it's like a giant log cabin in the middle of the forest.
Lauterbrunnen is my favorite. It's my kinda place. Green Everywhere, goats, water running through the town, tractors driving on the road. Just so cute. I love it!!!
Speaking of love. It's my daddy's birthday today!! I love him lots and I wish I was there today. Have a great day dad. Love you and happy birthday!!!
Back on track...after we got settled in we walked through this beautiful part of town to this waterfall. We took the tram to the top which was super cool and we walked down. It was so cold but so pretty.
We walked back and sung. I miss being able to sing at the top of my lungs and music in general.
Switzerland is so expensive. Even when you convert the francs to dollars, everything here is really expensive. The cost of living is crazy but when the Swiss go on vacation I bet they go crazy because everything is comparatively cheap! But Switzerland is the safest place (next to Elko) I've ever been.
We went to the store and then came back and a whole bunch of us girls pigged out and talked. I love those nights. I'm gunna miss this :(
After everyone was done we went into this pretty little grove and had devotional. Tyler gave it and even though it had nothing to do with missionary work, it made me appreciate missionaries so much. They really do learn to love the people they serve. It's pretty incredible to see.
I walked around in the grove for a little while and took in everything. Thought about the whole trip and everything that I had experienced. It was definitely a moment.
We got back on the bus and drove to the grocery store. Which we all love. I'll totes miss coop.
Then we drove to Interlaken and went to the train station. It had the prettiest grassy area with flowers and the bluest sky with the most awesome mountains in the background. I can't wait to post the pictures!! I slept and right outside my window was a little stream that was running. I loved it.
After we ate we went to Lauterbrunnen and checked in. We had to be in 2 separate hotels because one couldn't fit us all so all the boys and 7 "lucky" girls got to stay in the "rustic" (as doctor money said) hotel. Guess who got chosen as one of the seven. This girl. Of course.
However, when we got there, our hotel was really nice. We actually ended up getting the better hotel. It's so cool because it's like a giant log cabin in the middle of the forest.
Lauterbrunnen is my favorite. It's my kinda place. Green Everywhere, goats, water running through the town, tractors driving on the road. Just so cute. I love it!!!
Speaking of love. It's my daddy's birthday today!! I love him lots and I wish I was there today. Have a great day dad. Love you and happy birthday!!!
Back on track...after we got settled in we walked through this beautiful part of town to this waterfall. We took the tram to the top which was super cool and we walked down. It was so cold but so pretty.
We walked back and sung. I miss being able to sing at the top of my lungs and music in general.
Switzerland is so expensive. Even when you convert the francs to dollars, everything here is really expensive. The cost of living is crazy but when the Swiss go on vacation I bet they go crazy because everything is comparatively cheap! But Switzerland is the safest place (next to Elko) I've ever been.
We went to the store and then came back and a whole bunch of us girls pigged out and talked. I love those nights. I'm gunna miss this :(
Thursday, August 11, 2011
From Geneva, Switzerland to Bern, Switzerland
I'm in love. With Switzerland. It's the most beautiful place I've ever seen! And it takes a lot to beat Santorini and Hawaii. But this tops it.
Sometimes when I see all of these beautiful places and I don't even take a picture. Purposefully though. It just makes me sad to look at them because the pictures do them no justice.
It's so green here with water as clear as the water in Turkey and Greece. It's the best of both worlds.
We woke up this morning and hopped on the bus to go to the reformers wall. It was super cool. Giant statues of the reformers in a beautiful park. Also in the park were giant chess and checker sets. They were really fun. And there was a playground. With a merry go round, swings, and a teeter totter. Of course this girl jumped on. It was the coolest park of my lifee!
We got back on the bus and went back to the place where we were last night, the downtown part. There is a 500 foot fountain there. It's super cool. It was originally developed to relieve water pressure but it's so cool that they kept it. Its so tall. That's like almost 3 leaning towers of Pisa. Craaaazzy. It was off last night cause the wind was blowing and when it blows the fountain soaks the world but it was great today.
Back to the bus to the United Nations! We got a tour of it and it was awesome. We sat in the big conference rooms and watched some of the people around the world discuss important stuff. Interestingly enough there was a woman representing Iran. As well as the United States :)
The prominent language in switzerland is French. Followed probably by English but it's so cool. Finally high school is being put into real life. I guess I wasn't lied to when they told me going regularly would come in handy.
After our lovely tour we went to Coop, the grocery store. Yay!! Got some food and then headed to Nestle for our last business visit! Nestle headquarters is right off the shore of Lake Geneva and surrounded by green grass. Huge beautiful building. I don't know how people get anything done there. I would just stare out the window all day.
They gave us a tour and nestle is crazy. It gives acquisition a whole new meaning. Everything is nestle. Look at what you're eating or what your pet is eating. I bet it has a nestle brand or some sort of affiliation with nestle. They do water, catfood, foreign foods, hot pockets, lean cuisine, digornios, everything. Even kit kat!! I bet you thought that was Hershey's. Wrong. Hershey's is the distributor in the US. Crazy huh?
Then some guy talked to us and we left with bags of chocolate. Yumm.
Next was our "group activity". You know what that means! Surprise!! So we pull up to this beautiful castle in the shore called Chateou de Chillon. We explored for an hour or so. It was actually really awesome. So many places to go and hide. It was such a nice day too. Probably 75 degrees. Few clouds inthe sky. So pretty!
Then we were back on the object I have dedicated my life to: the bus. We drove for an hourish to Bern and it was new roommate time!!
My original roommate was supposed to be Alexis. She's 20 somethin. She actually goes to the U of U but I guess the study abroads are really sketchy there so she applied and now she's with us! She majored in exercise science and graduated this last April I do believe. She's really sweet. However, Kira and Alexis are besties and Morghen and I are really close and Alexis and I were supposed to be roommates And Kira and Morghen were supposed to be roommates but we switched. So Morghen was my roommate for the 4th time :)
After we got there we decided we wanted to go explore so we walked around and saw what was around. There's not a lot in Bern. It's pretty modern. So we went back to the room and changed and went back out to do a photo shoot. Just me and Morghen. In the metro station. Late at night. Taking pictures. It was so much fun though. I meditated in my genie pants on top of the newspaper stand. Crazy stuff like that. It was great. We also got in this passport photo booth thing and took pictures. The first one got frozen and took a picture of us looking like 12 year olds with a Christmas card background. But we did some cooler ones.
We couldn't just let that go to waste though. So we went back to our hotel, made a fort and turned the lights out and wrote with our left hands "Meery Chrismus. Love Morghen and Hilary" then we went and delivered it to Tyler because we thought he'd appreciate it. We knocked on the door and left the card on the ground and hid. Mike answered the door and started laughing. So we did too and then we went in and gave it to Tyler and chilled in there for a bit. I'm not sure he appreciated it like he should have but they liked it.
We went back and chased Kelly around our rooms with a creepy voice because they were connected and talked. Now we're heading to bed!
You guys. I'm so trunky. I'm not a missionary but I hope I can still say that. I miss home. This craziness has been the time of my life. But I need stability. And my family and friends!! I can't wait to see all of you!!
Sometimes when I see all of these beautiful places and I don't even take a picture. Purposefully though. It just makes me sad to look at them because the pictures do them no justice.
It's so green here with water as clear as the water in Turkey and Greece. It's the best of both worlds.
We woke up this morning and hopped on the bus to go to the reformers wall. It was super cool. Giant statues of the reformers in a beautiful park. Also in the park were giant chess and checker sets. They were really fun. And there was a playground. With a merry go round, swings, and a teeter totter. Of course this girl jumped on. It was the coolest park of my lifee!
We got back on the bus and went back to the place where we were last night, the downtown part. There is a 500 foot fountain there. It's super cool. It was originally developed to relieve water pressure but it's so cool that they kept it. Its so tall. That's like almost 3 leaning towers of Pisa. Craaaazzy. It was off last night cause the wind was blowing and when it blows the fountain soaks the world but it was great today.
Back to the bus to the United Nations! We got a tour of it and it was awesome. We sat in the big conference rooms and watched some of the people around the world discuss important stuff. Interestingly enough there was a woman representing Iran. As well as the United States :)
The prominent language in switzerland is French. Followed probably by English but it's so cool. Finally high school is being put into real life. I guess I wasn't lied to when they told me going regularly would come in handy.
After our lovely tour we went to Coop, the grocery store. Yay!! Got some food and then headed to Nestle for our last business visit! Nestle headquarters is right off the shore of Lake Geneva and surrounded by green grass. Huge beautiful building. I don't know how people get anything done there. I would just stare out the window all day.
They gave us a tour and nestle is crazy. It gives acquisition a whole new meaning. Everything is nestle. Look at what you're eating or what your pet is eating. I bet it has a nestle brand or some sort of affiliation with nestle. They do water, catfood, foreign foods, hot pockets, lean cuisine, digornios, everything. Even kit kat!! I bet you thought that was Hershey's. Wrong. Hershey's is the distributor in the US. Crazy huh?
Then some guy talked to us and we left with bags of chocolate. Yumm.
Next was our "group activity". You know what that means! Surprise!! So we pull up to this beautiful castle in the shore called Chateou de Chillon. We explored for an hour or so. It was actually really awesome. So many places to go and hide. It was such a nice day too. Probably 75 degrees. Few clouds inthe sky. So pretty!
Then we were back on the object I have dedicated my life to: the bus. We drove for an hourish to Bern and it was new roommate time!!
My original roommate was supposed to be Alexis. She's 20 somethin. She actually goes to the U of U but I guess the study abroads are really sketchy there so she applied and now she's with us! She majored in exercise science and graduated this last April I do believe. She's really sweet. However, Kira and Alexis are besties and Morghen and I are really close and Alexis and I were supposed to be roommates And Kira and Morghen were supposed to be roommates but we switched. So Morghen was my roommate for the 4th time :)
After we got there we decided we wanted to go explore so we walked around and saw what was around. There's not a lot in Bern. It's pretty modern. So we went back to the room and changed and went back out to do a photo shoot. Just me and Morghen. In the metro station. Late at night. Taking pictures. It was so much fun though. I meditated in my genie pants on top of the newspaper stand. Crazy stuff like that. It was great. We also got in this passport photo booth thing and took pictures. The first one got frozen and took a picture of us looking like 12 year olds with a Christmas card background. But we did some cooler ones.
We couldn't just let that go to waste though. So we went back to our hotel, made a fort and turned the lights out and wrote with our left hands "Meery Chrismus. Love Morghen and Hilary" then we went and delivered it to Tyler because we thought he'd appreciate it. We knocked on the door and left the card on the ground and hid. Mike answered the door and started laughing. So we did too and then we went in and gave it to Tyler and chilled in there for a bit. I'm not sure he appreciated it like he should have but they liked it.
We went back and chased Kelly around our rooms with a creepy voice because they were connected and talked. Now we're heading to bed!
You guys. I'm so trunky. I'm not a missionary but I hope I can still say that. I miss home. This craziness has been the time of my life. But I need stability. And my family and friends!! I can't wait to see all of you!!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Venice and Milan, Italy to Geneva, Switzerland
Hey. Remember how I said that I had a 4:45 wake up call? My little angel Morghen came a knocking at 5:28. That was a problem considering the bus was leaving at 5:30. Perfect. Not. But my room was packed and I had clothes on at 5:32. That's impressive is it not? We pulled a roller backpack girl move and ran to the bus station over bridges and such and made it there before the bus got there. Thanks hotel Al Sole for calling everyone but our room this morning. I really appreciated it. Not. Whatevs. I impressed myself.
We had to get on the bus for another "group activity" Aka surprise!! So we drive to Milan and find out that we were going to a museum. Not just any sort of museum though. Our surprise was that we were going to see the original painting of Leonardo DaVinci's Last Supper!!!!
And we did. They're super crazy about security there. They put you in one room and close you in it and then open another door for you to get out of the room. It's crazy. I promise.
We got in the room and we had this foreign lady with a really thick accent. The room with the painting also echoed a lot so it was difficult to hear and understand what she was saying. But I loved the explanation of the symbolism. It was all really cool. That was such a huge deal. It's like impossible to get tickets and it costs a ton but we did it. It was incredible.
Then we got on a bus and went to the duomo in Milan. I loved that duomo. It was my favorite so far. You aren't supposed to get pictures but I did so you'll get to enjoy he duomo as well.
Then we got McDonalds. Ok it is so freaking expensive. No dollar cheeseburgers there. But they have caramel sundaes. And they are the most delicious things in the world. 1. Gelatto 2. Those.
Then we hopped on the bus and headed to Geneva! It was crazy because we got off the bus for a potty break and it was cold. By cold I mean low 70's but I don't know what it's like to get off the bus and not start sweating to death so it was weird but refreshing.
We actually drove through France and through the 8 mile tunnel under Mt. Blanc which is on the border of France and Switzerland. That's was really pretty. From Milan to Geneva we followed the Alps and watched The Sound of Music. That was a fun experience. Who gets to do that? This girl.
It was perfect because as the Von Trapps crossed the Swiss border, so did we. For real though. Haha.
It was the most beautiful sight. I loved every second of it!
We got to Geneva and went to their festival thing. It was so cute. Fair food and rides all over. It was precious. It makes me excited for the Elko county fair!!!
Then we came back to our hotel and got checked in. I'm roommates with Jessica leavitt and right now I'm sitting on my bed talking with Morghen, Andrew, and her. They're all great.
I love Switzerland. It's blowing my imagination and it's like 6 hours into the country. Tomorrow is Bern.
It's late. Can't wait to see you all!!! :)
P.s. Sorry if this doesn't make complete sense. I'm really scatter brained at this point in the trip.
We had to get on the bus for another "group activity" Aka surprise!! So we drive to Milan and find out that we were going to a museum. Not just any sort of museum though. Our surprise was that we were going to see the original painting of Leonardo DaVinci's Last Supper!!!!
And we did. They're super crazy about security there. They put you in one room and close you in it and then open another door for you to get out of the room. It's crazy. I promise.
We got in the room and we had this foreign lady with a really thick accent. The room with the painting also echoed a lot so it was difficult to hear and understand what she was saying. But I loved the explanation of the symbolism. It was all really cool. That was such a huge deal. It's like impossible to get tickets and it costs a ton but we did it. It was incredible.
Then we got on a bus and went to the duomo in Milan. I loved that duomo. It was my favorite so far. You aren't supposed to get pictures but I did so you'll get to enjoy he duomo as well.
Then we got McDonalds. Ok it is so freaking expensive. No dollar cheeseburgers there. But they have caramel sundaes. And they are the most delicious things in the world. 1. Gelatto 2. Those.
Then we hopped on the bus and headed to Geneva! It was crazy because we got off the bus for a potty break and it was cold. By cold I mean low 70's but I don't know what it's like to get off the bus and not start sweating to death so it was weird but refreshing.
We actually drove through France and through the 8 mile tunnel under Mt. Blanc which is on the border of France and Switzerland. That's was really pretty. From Milan to Geneva we followed the Alps and watched The Sound of Music. That was a fun experience. Who gets to do that? This girl.
It was perfect because as the Von Trapps crossed the Swiss border, so did we. For real though. Haha.
It was the most beautiful sight. I loved every second of it!
We got to Geneva and went to their festival thing. It was so cute. Fair food and rides all over. It was precious. It makes me excited for the Elko county fair!!!
Then we came back to our hotel and got checked in. I'm roommates with Jessica leavitt and right now I'm sitting on my bed talking with Morghen, Andrew, and her. They're all great.
I love Switzerland. It's blowing my imagination and it's like 6 hours into the country. Tomorrow is Bern.
It's late. Can't wait to see you all!!! :)
P.s. Sorry if this doesn't make complete sense. I'm really scatter brained at this point in the trip.
Once more: Venice, Italy
What a great day! I woke up and hopped on a water taxi with 15 other BYUers.
We got off by this really pretty church. There are churches everywhere with beautiful stained glass, super high ceilings, and amazing sculptures and paintings. It never gets old. The majority of them/ all of them are Catholic churches. So I went in there and went in this prayer room and I definitely felt the spirit. It was really nice.
We sat outside the church on the steps for a really long time just enjoying the view and the nice weather. It's funny because all of us are all so comfortable with each other. I can have an easy conversation with anyone in the group and we're all about back scratching and massages etc. Any still moment and we've got a line started. So we all sat outside scratching each others backs and talking for a long time. And of course, like everywhere else we go people were filming the weird things us Americans do. It amazes me how fascinating we are. I don't get it.
Finally we got up and took a water taxi to the bridge of sighs. Supposedly if you kiss underneath it, you'll have a life full of romance. It's stuck right between the prison and a beautiful palace.
All of the girls got matching gondolier sweatshirts that I'm in love with. I can't wait for it to be coldish :)
We then went on a hunt for food which some of the girls found and we went to sit outside of the basilica. So I mentioned how there are a lot of pigeons. Oh my gosh. My worst nightmare became a reality. Pigeons. Everywhere. To the left: pigeons flying over Morghen, Jessica, and Emily's food creating feather residue. To the right: pigeons covering a small boy's body from head to toe. From behind: pigeons flailing and flapping around trying to get around me. It was terrible. There were a million and they were ON people. Eww eww eww. I couldn't handle it.
Another thing this girl isn't a big fan of: cheese. Id like to inform you all that I am a changed human. I hate to admit it but I kinda like it now. Mozzarella balls and cut tomatoes is like one of the most delicious things ever. I love mozzarella balls!! Moral of the story: I had mozzarella and tomato pizza for lunch and it was the best pizza in Italy.
After all the excitement Morghen, Maren, and I went on a shopping adventure to Coop. I can't tell you how excited supermarkets make me these days. It's a rare and royal occasion to find one. It's such a special treat :) we bought us some fruit and went back to the hotel.
I threw on a skirt and went to Catholic mass with Danielle and Todd. Danielle was raised catholic and has only been a member since 17 so he wanted to experience mass in Italy. And what kind of crazy person would miss mass in Italy? I looked forward to it all day! We walked to this church and sat down and the two guys walked in and did their thing. We stood up and knelt and tried to follow along. Everything was in Italian though so it was hard to say and impossible to understand but we got the jist of it. Like the Fathers prayer( I think that's what it's called) was understandable. It was really cool. I seriously really enjoyed it. I'm so glad I got to do it. When I get back to the states I want peanut butter and another go round at mass to understand it this time. It was a little different and only like 25 minutes but I loved it!! So glad I went.
We walked back to the hotel and went gondola hunting. They're really expensive but it's one of those things you have to do. When in Rome...
Anyways, we found this place and hands down, bar none, the most attractive man I have seen this far. He was a gondolier. What a beautiful man. So we obviously got on his gondolier and explored the canals. It wasn't anything incredible. But I enjoyed myself for sure. I'd love to do it again with the love of my life. Can't wait for Italy take 2 haha.
Morghen and I needed a moment so we took a pizza gelato take 2 and went back by the church. We ate our pizza in front if the fire station. Perfect. And then gelatto in front of the church while music played in the background. It was so peaceful and calming. It was a perfect way to end Italy.
We went back and I hung out in my Aladdin pants and just chilled. No internet so we created our own fun. It was a great last night.
My roommate! Fat kid Kelly. Ha! Her name is Kelly Carrasco. Best middle name ever. She's 22 and is majoring in advertising. She's super loud and outgoing but is freaking hilarious. Reminds me of a combo of Katie an Payt. (Who I miss the crap out of :( ) love her. Out hotel key said "Mr and Mrs Carrasco" the first night so we pretended we were honey mooning. It was quite fun/funny.
I have a wake up call at 4:45 so goodnight friends and family :)
We got off by this really pretty church. There are churches everywhere with beautiful stained glass, super high ceilings, and amazing sculptures and paintings. It never gets old. The majority of them/ all of them are Catholic churches. So I went in there and went in this prayer room and I definitely felt the spirit. It was really nice.
We sat outside the church on the steps for a really long time just enjoying the view and the nice weather. It's funny because all of us are all so comfortable with each other. I can have an easy conversation with anyone in the group and we're all about back scratching and massages etc. Any still moment and we've got a line started. So we all sat outside scratching each others backs and talking for a long time. And of course, like everywhere else we go people were filming the weird things us Americans do. It amazes me how fascinating we are. I don't get it.
Finally we got up and took a water taxi to the bridge of sighs. Supposedly if you kiss underneath it, you'll have a life full of romance. It's stuck right between the prison and a beautiful palace.
All of the girls got matching gondolier sweatshirts that I'm in love with. I can't wait for it to be coldish :)
We then went on a hunt for food which some of the girls found and we went to sit outside of the basilica. So I mentioned how there are a lot of pigeons. Oh my gosh. My worst nightmare became a reality. Pigeons. Everywhere. To the left: pigeons flying over Morghen, Jessica, and Emily's food creating feather residue. To the right: pigeons covering a small boy's body from head to toe. From behind: pigeons flailing and flapping around trying to get around me. It was terrible. There were a million and they were ON people. Eww eww eww. I couldn't handle it.
Another thing this girl isn't a big fan of: cheese. Id like to inform you all that I am a changed human. I hate to admit it but I kinda like it now. Mozzarella balls and cut tomatoes is like one of the most delicious things ever. I love mozzarella balls!! Moral of the story: I had mozzarella and tomato pizza for lunch and it was the best pizza in Italy.
After all the excitement Morghen, Maren, and I went on a shopping adventure to Coop. I can't tell you how excited supermarkets make me these days. It's a rare and royal occasion to find one. It's such a special treat :) we bought us some fruit and went back to the hotel.
I threw on a skirt and went to Catholic mass with Danielle and Todd. Danielle was raised catholic and has only been a member since 17 so he wanted to experience mass in Italy. And what kind of crazy person would miss mass in Italy? I looked forward to it all day! We walked to this church and sat down and the two guys walked in and did their thing. We stood up and knelt and tried to follow along. Everything was in Italian though so it was hard to say and impossible to understand but we got the jist of it. Like the Fathers prayer( I think that's what it's called) was understandable. It was really cool. I seriously really enjoyed it. I'm so glad I got to do it. When I get back to the states I want peanut butter and another go round at mass to understand it this time. It was a little different and only like 25 minutes but I loved it!! So glad I went.
We walked back to the hotel and went gondola hunting. They're really expensive but it's one of those things you have to do. When in Rome...
Anyways, we found this place and hands down, bar none, the most attractive man I have seen this far. He was a gondolier. What a beautiful man. So we obviously got on his gondolier and explored the canals. It wasn't anything incredible. But I enjoyed myself for sure. I'd love to do it again with the love of my life. Can't wait for Italy take 2 haha.
Morghen and I needed a moment so we took a pizza gelato take 2 and went back by the church. We ate our pizza in front if the fire station. Perfect. And then gelatto in front of the church while music played in the background. It was so peaceful and calming. It was a perfect way to end Italy.
We went back and I hung out in my Aladdin pants and just chilled. No internet so we created our own fun. It was a great last night.
My roommate! Fat kid Kelly. Ha! Her name is Kelly Carrasco. Best middle name ever. She's 22 and is majoring in advertising. She's super loud and outgoing but is freaking hilarious. Reminds me of a combo of Katie an Payt. (Who I miss the crap out of :( ) love her. Out hotel key said "Mr and Mrs Carrasco" the first night so we pretended we were honey mooning. It was quite fun/funny.
I have a wake up call at 4:45 so goodnight friends and family :)
Venice, Italy
Today is Sunday. Which means church. So we drove to the other side of Florence to this small building and went to church.
It was really crazy because sacrament meeting was in 3 different languages. Spanish, English, and Italian. We had a translator sitting next to me but I couldn't even hear her much less anyone else around me. It was a nice effort though.
By the way...we live in such a Small world. Of course Tyler knew someone. He served there and his branch president Was someone he obviously knew so that was cool. Amy also had a friend from back home that she knew on his mission there that she saw and he translated for us. Chelita found someone that she's worked with before from like south America or something crazy like that. It's crazy how small the world we live in is.
It was fast and testimony meeting so McKay, Ryan, and Todd bore their testimonies which were then translated into Italian. That was cool. It was all really awesome but their testimonies were the best. Todd is going to be a general authority. There's that story.
After church we got on our Dutch bus with our Dutch bus driver, Peter, to go to Venice.
As soon as I thought I got away from the humidity, Venice brought it all back. When we got there it was raining and beautiful.
Venice is 117 islands connected by canals and bridges and such. Venice- great but no sewage system. Well sort of. The sewage goes into the water surrounding the city and the tide of the ocean carries the sewage out. So there is sewage all around everywhere. But I don't know how much I believe that because when you walk around and go over the bridges, there aren't little floaties everywhere and it doesn't smell that bad. Italy in general isn't the most pleasant smelling place but that's life. And you know that if the sewage emptied straight into the canal without any sort of filter or something that there would be little "presents" everywhere. But it's mostly true. And there is water everywhere. No cars. Just boats. And bridges :)
We drug our luggage over bridges everywhere and up innumerable staircases until we got to our hotel. I swear that I will have done at least a half marathon with my luggage after this trip.
My room overlooked a canal and a pretty busy street. And a bridge too. And we had a loft in our room. It was pretty cool!
I went with Melanie and Kelly to walk around cause it was like 6ish when we got there and we were hungry. We found some pizza for a euro 60 and bought it. It was real good. We also had some gelatto. Yum.
Then we just wandered. No map, no water taxi, no nothin. Just us and Venice! When 10 rolled around, we decided we needed to go back, asked some people where we were and realized we were on a completely different island almost off the map. Yay. So because I have been designated the map quester, it was my job to get us back. We were VERY lost. And I didn't have my water taxi pass to get on the taxi. Whoops.
We asked around, went in circles and got made fun of. Several dark ally ways and nearly two hours later, we got back. Getting lost in Venice is all part of the experience though. It was fun.
Venice is known for it's glass. Beautiful glass and there are also tons of masks everywhere. Every design and color one could imagine. They're very pretty and all over the place.
Today is a special Sunday because it's Tay's birthday!! I have to give another shout out to my girl Brontay Dickson. She's 19 today and I love and miss her a lot. I hope you have a fantastic day. I wish I could've sang to you and celebrated with you but we'll do plenty of that this fall :) love you lots!!
I won't have Internet for a while so this will be late. I hope y'all are safe and doing well. I'll see you in a week :)
While we were wandering today, I saw a bridge with love locks on them. You write your name and the person you're in love with and lock it on the bridge. It's super cute. One of them said "never give up. It's such a wonderful life. " don't forget that!
It was really crazy because sacrament meeting was in 3 different languages. Spanish, English, and Italian. We had a translator sitting next to me but I couldn't even hear her much less anyone else around me. It was a nice effort though.
By the way...we live in such a Small world. Of course Tyler knew someone. He served there and his branch president Was someone he obviously knew so that was cool. Amy also had a friend from back home that she knew on his mission there that she saw and he translated for us. Chelita found someone that she's worked with before from like south America or something crazy like that. It's crazy how small the world we live in is.
It was fast and testimony meeting so McKay, Ryan, and Todd bore their testimonies which were then translated into Italian. That was cool. It was all really awesome but their testimonies were the best. Todd is going to be a general authority. There's that story.
After church we got on our Dutch bus with our Dutch bus driver, Peter, to go to Venice.
As soon as I thought I got away from the humidity, Venice brought it all back. When we got there it was raining and beautiful.
Venice is 117 islands connected by canals and bridges and such. Venice- great but no sewage system. Well sort of. The sewage goes into the water surrounding the city and the tide of the ocean carries the sewage out. So there is sewage all around everywhere. But I don't know how much I believe that because when you walk around and go over the bridges, there aren't little floaties everywhere and it doesn't smell that bad. Italy in general isn't the most pleasant smelling place but that's life. And you know that if the sewage emptied straight into the canal without any sort of filter or something that there would be little "presents" everywhere. But it's mostly true. And there is water everywhere. No cars. Just boats. And bridges :)
We drug our luggage over bridges everywhere and up innumerable staircases until we got to our hotel. I swear that I will have done at least a half marathon with my luggage after this trip.
My room overlooked a canal and a pretty busy street. And a bridge too. And we had a loft in our room. It was pretty cool!
I went with Melanie and Kelly to walk around cause it was like 6ish when we got there and we were hungry. We found some pizza for a euro 60 and bought it. It was real good. We also had some gelatto. Yum.
Then we just wandered. No map, no water taxi, no nothin. Just us and Venice! When 10 rolled around, we decided we needed to go back, asked some people where we were and realized we were on a completely different island almost off the map. Yay. So because I have been designated the map quester, it was my job to get us back. We were VERY lost. And I didn't have my water taxi pass to get on the taxi. Whoops.
We asked around, went in circles and got made fun of. Several dark ally ways and nearly two hours later, we got back. Getting lost in Venice is all part of the experience though. It was fun.
Venice is known for it's glass. Beautiful glass and there are also tons of masks everywhere. Every design and color one could imagine. They're very pretty and all over the place.
Today is a special Sunday because it's Tay's birthday!! I have to give another shout out to my girl Brontay Dickson. She's 19 today and I love and miss her a lot. I hope you have a fantastic day. I wish I could've sang to you and celebrated with you but we'll do plenty of that this fall :) love you lots!!
I won't have Internet for a while so this will be late. I hope y'all are safe and doing well. I'll see you in a week :)
While we were wandering today, I saw a bridge with love locks on them. You write your name and the person you're in love with and lock it on the bridge. It's super cute. One of them said "never give up. It's such a wonderful life. " don't forget that!
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Florence, Italy
Blehhhh. I feel like I'm going to have a food baby. I'll explain later but let's start at the top :)
Today was a free day so I kinda slept in and then Danielle and I went on a run. It was so nice. We ran right next to the river. Such a beautiful view. We probs did like 3 miles but it felt like nothing. I forget what it's like to run at low sea level because I usually run in Utah and Elko where the elevation makes it rough to run. Being able to breathe was weird but really very nice. I love running.
I came back and showered and then had some breakfast then went to the duomo. It's one of the most beautiful if not the most beautiful building I've ever seen. It looks fake though. Its actually on the first episode of Jersey Shore. He big white building that had the dome. Hence the duomo.
Morghen and I decided that it's just Disneyland. A cardboard fake building. But it's actually real. Which is really cool.
We shopped and I got some cool stuff and then we all met up and went to the academy to see Michelangelo's David. It was my favorite sculpture thus far. And that means a lot considering the amount of museums I've been to in the past month. Back in the day, artists sculpted people physically according to the intangible characteristics they possessed. The David sculpture is David as in David and Goliath. He's a 14 year old boy but he is built. He looks much older. I really liked it.
After that we went and ate at O'Vesuvios. That's the place where Jersey Shore worked this past season. It's funny cause we walked in and the guy obviously could tell we were Americans cause he said "Oh the Jersey Shore huh?" apparently we aren't the only people with that idea. It made me really happy though. Snookie, Pauly D, the whole crew signed the wall behind the cash register and they had their own specials up on the wall. I got Vinny's special. It was really good pizza actually and we ran in to these girls from the Jersey Shore. They assured us that normal people from the shore don't act like the cast. There was also a little room by the bathroom that had permanent marker on the door that said "Snookie's bedroom. Do not enter. Enter at your own risk" I decided not to go in. That was pretty exciting.
We shopped a lot more, did some napping and then went and ate. Danielle, Morghen, Christy, Mike and I joined Chelita and Roger (the cutest couple and best chaperones ever) and went to this place that's famous for it's rigatoni pasta so of course we got that. It was so romantic which is yet again a little depressing. It was the best pasta I've ever had. That was like 3 hours ago and I'm still super full. After we ate we all sat there and told creepy stories about ghosts and scary stuff that we've encountered.
We walked back and packed and stuff and then watched Jersey shore. It was so fun watching and being like "oh we've been there" "I took a picture there today" "I rode that merry-go-round" "I walked by their house" I love it. I live Firenze (Florence).
Roommates: Harmony, Morghen and Ashley. I've already talked about the first 2. Ashely: I'm pretty sure she graduates this year. She's super chill and funny. She works with computers and stuff I think so she knows all the hook ups for everything. She likes peach juice which I do also. She's great. Everyone is great.
I can't believe the time had all flown by. I've almost gotten used to living this dream and seeing incredible things everyday. What am I going to do when I have to go back to Elko and the most exciting thing to see there is walmart on black Friday? What a blessing this dream is.
I'm so full still. I want to die. In a good way.
P.s. I totes got gelatto too. Of course :)
Today was a free day so I kinda slept in and then Danielle and I went on a run. It was so nice. We ran right next to the river. Such a beautiful view. We probs did like 3 miles but it felt like nothing. I forget what it's like to run at low sea level because I usually run in Utah and Elko where the elevation makes it rough to run. Being able to breathe was weird but really very nice. I love running.
I came back and showered and then had some breakfast then went to the duomo. It's one of the most beautiful if not the most beautiful building I've ever seen. It looks fake though. Its actually on the first episode of Jersey Shore. He big white building that had the dome. Hence the duomo.
Morghen and I decided that it's just Disneyland. A cardboard fake building. But it's actually real. Which is really cool.
We shopped and I got some cool stuff and then we all met up and went to the academy to see Michelangelo's David. It was my favorite sculpture thus far. And that means a lot considering the amount of museums I've been to in the past month. Back in the day, artists sculpted people physically according to the intangible characteristics they possessed. The David sculpture is David as in David and Goliath. He's a 14 year old boy but he is built. He looks much older. I really liked it.
After that we went and ate at O'Vesuvios. That's the place where Jersey Shore worked this past season. It's funny cause we walked in and the guy obviously could tell we were Americans cause he said "Oh the Jersey Shore huh?" apparently we aren't the only people with that idea. It made me really happy though. Snookie, Pauly D, the whole crew signed the wall behind the cash register and they had their own specials up on the wall. I got Vinny's special. It was really good pizza actually and we ran in to these girls from the Jersey Shore. They assured us that normal people from the shore don't act like the cast. There was also a little room by the bathroom that had permanent marker on the door that said "Snookie's bedroom. Do not enter. Enter at your own risk" I decided not to go in. That was pretty exciting.
We shopped a lot more, did some napping and then went and ate. Danielle, Morghen, Christy, Mike and I joined Chelita and Roger (the cutest couple and best chaperones ever) and went to this place that's famous for it's rigatoni pasta so of course we got that. It was so romantic which is yet again a little depressing. It was the best pasta I've ever had. That was like 3 hours ago and I'm still super full. After we ate we all sat there and told creepy stories about ghosts and scary stuff that we've encountered.
We walked back and packed and stuff and then watched Jersey shore. It was so fun watching and being like "oh we've been there" "I took a picture there today" "I rode that merry-go-round" "I walked by their house" I love it. I live Firenze (Florence).
Roommates: Harmony, Morghen and Ashley. I've already talked about the first 2. Ashely: I'm pretty sure she graduates this year. She's super chill and funny. She works with computers and stuff I think so she knows all the hook ups for everything. She likes peach juice which I do also. She's great. Everyone is great.
I can't believe the time had all flown by. I've almost gotten used to living this dream and seeing incredible things everyday. What am I going to do when I have to go back to Elko and the most exciting thing to see there is walmart on black Friday? What a blessing this dream is.
I'm so full still. I want to die. In a good way.
P.s. I totes got gelatto too. Of course :)
Friday, August 5, 2011
Florence and Pisa, Italy
Today was fun! As if every other day hasn't been. We ate some breakfast and then took our 30 minute walk to our bus. Yay.
We headed off to Pisa! We got there and took the typical leaning tower pictures. In real life it looks way more tilted than in pictures. It's crazy what 3.3 degrees can do! We got to go in small groups up to the top. It was so weird because right when you walk in you feel like you're in a funhouse. You get all disoriented and ya start trippin and stuff. It was really fun. You have to climb the stairs all 187 feet to the top though which was not exactly fun. My calves were burning but it was really cool at the top. You look across the top from one side and the tilt is totally obvious.
We climbed/slid down the marble steps to the bottom and took some more pretty sweet pictures but totally touristy at the bottom. We shopped a little and ate. Not pizza though :(
Then we went to a business visit at this leather factory. Why they take us to these really expensive and nice leather stores is beyond me but it makes me a little depressed because I will never be able to afford any of them. I'm over it though.
It was over 100 degrees today. A little toasty. But it was kinda nice.
After our leather education we got on a bus and went to the top of Florence to take pictures and see the view. So pretty!
Then I was dying of starvation and walked to the bottom to get food. I got a salad but I should have got pasta. I haven't even had spaghetti in Italy yet. That's a sin because: 1. It's Italy and 2. It's my favorite food. That needs to happen asap.
We shopped after, saw some of the beautiful city and of course finished the night with gelatto times 2. Whoops. And we walked around the town. It was really cool. Florence is a hoppin place at night.
We explored our room last night because it kinda looks like a grandma had a tornado in here and there are these creepy doors like towards the ceiling which is really really tall and of course I got voted to climb on top of all this crap and see what was behind the doors. So I do and theres a single boot, books, and one of those little baby rocking horse things that toddlers ride on. Creepy? I think so. And why in the world is it in our room??? I don't understand but whatere.
Tomorrow I'm going to O'Vesuis (or something like that) pizza place. That's where the cast of Jersey Shore worked!! I'm going to the place they lived too and maybe end the night with a little party rockin like they did too ;) but the people won't even eat at that place anymore because they hated J shore so much. I can't wait!!
We headed off to Pisa! We got there and took the typical leaning tower pictures. In real life it looks way more tilted than in pictures. It's crazy what 3.3 degrees can do! We got to go in small groups up to the top. It was so weird because right when you walk in you feel like you're in a funhouse. You get all disoriented and ya start trippin and stuff. It was really fun. You have to climb the stairs all 187 feet to the top though which was not exactly fun. My calves were burning but it was really cool at the top. You look across the top from one side and the tilt is totally obvious.
We climbed/slid down the marble steps to the bottom and took some more pretty sweet pictures but totally touristy at the bottom. We shopped a little and ate. Not pizza though :(
Then we went to a business visit at this leather factory. Why they take us to these really expensive and nice leather stores is beyond me but it makes me a little depressed because I will never be able to afford any of them. I'm over it though.
It was over 100 degrees today. A little toasty. But it was kinda nice.
After our leather education we got on a bus and went to the top of Florence to take pictures and see the view. So pretty!
Then I was dying of starvation and walked to the bottom to get food. I got a salad but I should have got pasta. I haven't even had spaghetti in Italy yet. That's a sin because: 1. It's Italy and 2. It's my favorite food. That needs to happen asap.
We shopped after, saw some of the beautiful city and of course finished the night with gelatto times 2. Whoops. And we walked around the town. It was really cool. Florence is a hoppin place at night.
We explored our room last night because it kinda looks like a grandma had a tornado in here and there are these creepy doors like towards the ceiling which is really really tall and of course I got voted to climb on top of all this crap and see what was behind the doors. So I do and theres a single boot, books, and one of those little baby rocking horse things that toddlers ride on. Creepy? I think so. And why in the world is it in our room??? I don't understand but whatere.
Tomorrow I'm going to O'Vesuis (or something like that) pizza place. That's where the cast of Jersey Shore worked!! I'm going to the place they lived too and maybe end the night with a little party rockin like they did too ;) but the people won't even eat at that place anymore because they hated J shore so much. I can't wait!!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Rome to Sienna to Florence, Italy
Today was one of the best days of my life. Well the ending was anyone :)
We started out with a business visit to DHL which was super dooper and then we got on our lil bus and drove to Sienna.
I had this image in my mind of what Italy would be like and Rome wasn't exactly everything I thought it would be. Not necessarily bad just different. But sienna was what I imagined Italy to be. Beautiful brick buildings everywhere, small streets that when you look down, have something new and exciting.
We got a tour of the town which was so different from any other little city I've been to. You can't drive to the middle of the town. You can't to walk. It's really nice actually. It makes it so relaxing and peaceful.
Then we went to the Sienna cooking school where they cooked us the most delicious meal of my life.
We started with brushetta Bread with some sort if mushroom stuff on top. Followed by a 4 cheese ravioli and bread. Then we had turkey with the most delicious sauce I've ever tasted along with the most delicious potatoes I've ever eaten. So good. Then we finished with a flan type deal but it was more milky and white and it was covered in fruit and fruity sauce. It was all to die for.
It was prepared by a girl who is from BYU doing an internship here. It's a dream. Sienna is probably my favorite city I've been to so far. That's saying a lot. There's just something about it thats so different. I felt something there that I haven't anywhere else.
Caroline (Dr. Money's daughter) and I ran through the streets of sienna after dinner holding hands and screeching like pterydactls. I thought her how to screech and she thinks it is super funny. It was honestly some of the most fun I've had in a really long time. I love her.
We then hopped on a bus and drove to Florence where I'll stay for 3 nights then hit Switzerland and in a week I'm back in the U.S. Where did the time go? :(
We had a 15 minute walk to our hotel with all of our stuff because like sienna, in Florence you can't drive all over. There's a point where you have to stop driving and start walking. Boy are we a sight to see. 40 Americans hauling their giant 60 pound suitcases through the streets of Florence at 10 pm. By the way, our hotel is in the middle of the downtown area of Florence. It's pretty funny I must admit. We even started the luggage olympics. It's fun stuff.
Can I just inform you all that as I type this, I'm sitting under the Tuscan sun as it sets in the most beautiful country I've ever been to. This is such a huge blessing and I'll never forget what I've been fortunate to experience. I miss home a lot right now but it's comforting being in such a beautiful country learning about who I am and what I want.
We started out with a business visit to DHL which was super dooper and then we got on our lil bus and drove to Sienna.
I had this image in my mind of what Italy would be like and Rome wasn't exactly everything I thought it would be. Not necessarily bad just different. But sienna was what I imagined Italy to be. Beautiful brick buildings everywhere, small streets that when you look down, have something new and exciting.
We got a tour of the town which was so different from any other little city I've been to. You can't drive to the middle of the town. You can't to walk. It's really nice actually. It makes it so relaxing and peaceful.
Then we went to the Sienna cooking school where they cooked us the most delicious meal of my life.
We started with brushetta Bread with some sort if mushroom stuff on top. Followed by a 4 cheese ravioli and bread. Then we had turkey with the most delicious sauce I've ever tasted along with the most delicious potatoes I've ever eaten. So good. Then we finished with a flan type deal but it was more milky and white and it was covered in fruit and fruity sauce. It was all to die for.
It was prepared by a girl who is from BYU doing an internship here. It's a dream. Sienna is probably my favorite city I've been to so far. That's saying a lot. There's just something about it thats so different. I felt something there that I haven't anywhere else.
Caroline (Dr. Money's daughter) and I ran through the streets of sienna after dinner holding hands and screeching like pterydactls. I thought her how to screech and she thinks it is super funny. It was honestly some of the most fun I've had in a really long time. I love her.
We then hopped on a bus and drove to Florence where I'll stay for 3 nights then hit Switzerland and in a week I'm back in the U.S. Where did the time go? :(
We had a 15 minute walk to our hotel with all of our stuff because like sienna, in Florence you can't drive all over. There's a point where you have to stop driving and start walking. Boy are we a sight to see. 40 Americans hauling their giant 60 pound suitcases through the streets of Florence at 10 pm. By the way, our hotel is in the middle of the downtown area of Florence. It's pretty funny I must admit. We even started the luggage olympics. It's fun stuff.
Can I just inform you all that as I type this, I'm sitting under the Tuscan sun as it sets in the most beautiful country I've ever been to. This is such a huge blessing and I'll never forget what I've been fortunate to experience. I miss home a lot right now but it's comforting being in such a beautiful country learning about who I am and what I want.
Take three: Rome, Italy
What a long and amazing day. Woke up at like 6 am which is about 9 pm in Elko. Just FYI. Ate some breakfast which in Italy means eat carbs until you die of obesity. Seriously everything is carbs. At least its good i guess! Then we headed to Pompeii.
It was a 3 hour drive during which I listened to music. I have like 15 songs on my iPod cause I just haven't had time to put any more on so I hope someone is keeping tabs on good music for me to listen to when I get back.
We arrived in Pompeii and immediately saw mount Vesuvius which erupted and killed some 2,000 people. The city is super cool though because they had no idea the volcano was coming and when it hit, everything just froze. The ash preserved the city. There are over 1,100 bodies that were recovered out of the 2,000 that are frozen in positions either crawling, running or assuming the fetal position. It's pretty cool. Most of the stuff we see has to be redone but Pompeii is a city that has been well preserved so no remodeling necessary. There were over 40 brothels in the town. Kinda reminded me of home. <3 Mona's Ranch <3. It was really awesome. I liked it lots. And surprisingly it was really big.
We had a little time after so we went and had some pizza. There was this guy that wanted us to buy something and I was with Melanie (red head), Kelly(blonde) and Danielle and he goes "Chiao Ginger!" to Melanie. Here they always ask where we're from and tell us what we look like. On our way back he goes "Chaio Barbie!" to Kelly. it was pretty funny. I keep getting comments on how I look Portuguese. Def not Portuguese but thanks haha. Then after we searched for a WC (water closet) (aka bathroom). On the way to the WC I spotted these giant dudes. Literally over 7 feet tall. They turned around and I realized it was the Lopez twins, the NBA players from the Nets and the Suns! So I go to Italy and find famous American athletes. What the heck. It was cool though. They were super tall. We got a picture and moved on cause we were drawing attention to those poor boys.
We got back on the bus and headed to Naples. Naples or Napoli had a ton of garbage everywhere from the garbage strikes. Tyler said it was kind of the ghetto of Italy. Sketchy. But we went to this museum that had paintings from the ancient city of Pompeii. It had a beauty and the beast staircase. So of course we had a moment with that and then got back on the bus.
We stopped at a Carrefour on our way back to Rome. Carrefour is like the Walmart on steroids of Europe. It has all the stuff Walmart has but at a better quality and even lower prices. It's great. I haven't seen a grocery store since I've been here so being able to buy little things and snacks was heaven.
When we got back to Rome, Morghen, Danielle, Yulee, Ryan, Tyler and myself went on the other side of the river to go to what was said to be "the best pizza place in Rome". It was crazy getting there though. Good thing Tyler speaks Italian because we needed quite a bit of directional help. We finally found it in this back ally way and there was like an hour wait so we went back to this gelatto place and had dessert before dinner. Italians are obsessed with nutella. They put it in errything. It's so old though! The only sad thing is that there is no peanut butter!! That's what I'll be most excited to have back in the states.
We sat in this piazza around this beautiful fountain and ate our gelatto while it rained a little bit and music played in the background. It was the most romantic thing in the world. I love Italy.
We went back and ate our pizza which was freaking delicious. I'm not a big pizza fan but I loved this one. Probably the best I've ever had.
After we ate we waddled across the bridge and stood over the river. It was one of the prettiest things. And again uber romantic. That's Italy for you! There were so many people out on the streets too. Partying and just walking around.
My roommates!! Harmony and Sandra have been my roomies for the last 4 days. Harmony is from Tennessee and a business major. I'm pretty sure she graduates in December. Sandra was the girl who had a birthday on the trip. She turned 23. She's from Utah and she's on this trip with her sister. This is her second study abroad. I believe she went to London before. They're both great. It's so nice to have chill roommates that let you sleep and don't bounce off the wall. They were fin :)
We went back to the hotel and did some of our case study stuff for our business visit tomorrow and at 2 I'm finally heading to bed. Boo.
It was a 3 hour drive during which I listened to music. I have like 15 songs on my iPod cause I just haven't had time to put any more on so I hope someone is keeping tabs on good music for me to listen to when I get back.
We arrived in Pompeii and immediately saw mount Vesuvius which erupted and killed some 2,000 people. The city is super cool though because they had no idea the volcano was coming and when it hit, everything just froze. The ash preserved the city. There are over 1,100 bodies that were recovered out of the 2,000 that are frozen in positions either crawling, running or assuming the fetal position. It's pretty cool. Most of the stuff we see has to be redone but Pompeii is a city that has been well preserved so no remodeling necessary. There were over 40 brothels in the town. Kinda reminded me of home. <3 Mona's Ranch <3. It was really awesome. I liked it lots. And surprisingly it was really big.
We had a little time after so we went and had some pizza. There was this guy that wanted us to buy something and I was with Melanie (red head), Kelly(blonde) and Danielle and he goes "Chiao Ginger!" to Melanie. Here they always ask where we're from and tell us what we look like. On our way back he goes "Chaio Barbie!" to Kelly. it was pretty funny. I keep getting comments on how I look Portuguese. Def not Portuguese but thanks haha. Then after we searched for a WC (water closet) (aka bathroom). On the way to the WC I spotted these giant dudes. Literally over 7 feet tall. They turned around and I realized it was the Lopez twins, the NBA players from the Nets and the Suns! So I go to Italy and find famous American athletes. What the heck. It was cool though. They were super tall. We got a picture and moved on cause we were drawing attention to those poor boys.
We got back on the bus and headed to Naples. Naples or Napoli had a ton of garbage everywhere from the garbage strikes. Tyler said it was kind of the ghetto of Italy. Sketchy. But we went to this museum that had paintings from the ancient city of Pompeii. It had a beauty and the beast staircase. So of course we had a moment with that and then got back on the bus.
We stopped at a Carrefour on our way back to Rome. Carrefour is like the Walmart on steroids of Europe. It has all the stuff Walmart has but at a better quality and even lower prices. It's great. I haven't seen a grocery store since I've been here so being able to buy little things and snacks was heaven.
When we got back to Rome, Morghen, Danielle, Yulee, Ryan, Tyler and myself went on the other side of the river to go to what was said to be "the best pizza place in Rome". It was crazy getting there though. Good thing Tyler speaks Italian because we needed quite a bit of directional help. We finally found it in this back ally way and there was like an hour wait so we went back to this gelatto place and had dessert before dinner. Italians are obsessed with nutella. They put it in errything. It's so old though! The only sad thing is that there is no peanut butter!! That's what I'll be most excited to have back in the states.
We sat in this piazza around this beautiful fountain and ate our gelatto while it rained a little bit and music played in the background. It was the most romantic thing in the world. I love Italy.
We went back and ate our pizza which was freaking delicious. I'm not a big pizza fan but I loved this one. Probably the best I've ever had.
After we ate we waddled across the bridge and stood over the river. It was one of the prettiest things. And again uber romantic. That's Italy for you! There were so many people out on the streets too. Partying and just walking around.
My roommates!! Harmony and Sandra have been my roomies for the last 4 days. Harmony is from Tennessee and a business major. I'm pretty sure she graduates in December. Sandra was the girl who had a birthday on the trip. She turned 23. She's from Utah and she's on this trip with her sister. This is her second study abroad. I believe she went to London before. They're both great. It's so nice to have chill roommates that let you sleep and don't bounce off the wall. They were fin :)
We went back to the hotel and did some of our case study stuff for our business visit tomorrow and at 2 I'm finally heading to bed. Boo.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Day two: Rome, Italy
Alright let me set something straight. I'm not an idiot. Haha. Like how I said "chow" instead of "ciao"? I said I was in the Fat Kids Club but I didn't realize how bad it was. Haha just kidding! I was super tired. I'm not a retard. :)
Anyways, today was a great day! We had another free day which I love.
We all started out together. First stop: the Vatican. Let me just say that it's one of the coolest places I've ever been. So much beautiful architecture. Incredible paintings. By the 17th museum in 2 weeks, the sculptures and statues all start to become the same thing. But these were different. More modern. There was just something that I really loved. It made me respect and appreciate the Pope and Catholics in general more.
The Sistine Chapel is connected to all the Vatican stuff so we went there too And "wow" is about the only thing I can say. How does one man have so much patience? To paint those incredible masterpieces in just under 4 years? That's a gift from God. I can't explain it; it's just something one has to experience for themselves. I spent like almost 3 hours at the Vatican and I would do it again.
After that we headed to St. John's Basilica. It's so pretty. I didn't get to go in cause there was a two hour wait but the outside was gorgeous. Rome has fountains everywhere. It's beautiful.
We decided to take a recharge after that when I got on Facebook and took care of business. Shout out to my girl Kelsie Greenhalgh:
Hi. It's your birthday and I'm happy about that. Tell Cloyd and Bev thanks a ton for deciding to add a 3rd angel to their family. (You). I miss you a lot. You were the last family/friend I saw and it makes me miss you lots more. I can't wait to see you. Have a good day being all 19 and stuff. Let me know how it goes. Love you long time.
After the much needed break, Kelly, Morghen and I went to the bone museum. When I say bone museum I don't mean like a few small mammal bones here and there. We're talking human bones on everything. Chandeliers made out of cervical, thoracic and lumbar spinal bone. Designs on the wall from broken mandibles. There are different rooms so they have different themes but there ate friars and monks in all of them. Some of them are fully dressed, some not. Some completely decomposed and others with their skin still in tact. Laying on a bed of femurs or sitting on their pelvic bone couch. Super creepy but at the same time way cool. The last room had little kid skeletons in it and a tombstone that read something like "as we are now soon you will be also". Creepilicious. I don't know how they all died but I assumed the bubonic plague. We asked at the end of the church but the lady was more concerned with the fact that we weren't in a single file line. So we read this paper and all it said was that they were all religious and their bodies were brought here to be apart of the now "bone church". Weirrrrdd!
Then we headed to the Spanish Steps again because yesterday we stayed for like point five cause there was a concert and everyone was sitting on them. Got some pictures and then went shopping.
When shopping, I'm always more inclined to buy something when I hear American music blasting in the background. I like the clothes more when I can sing along and have a good dance with the clothes before I purchase to Katy Perry or Lady G. I know that's really stupid of me but I'm gunna be honest. It's fun and surprisingly it happens a lot.
We went back to the place we went last night where I took the picture in front of the fountain with my gelatto (in case anyone is stalking my Facebook pics really well) which I found out is called the Piazza Narvona. So pretty. One of my favorite spots for sure. Ate a little. People watched a little. Loved life a lot.
Then we shopped some more and I found the Aladdin pants I've been eagerly searching for. I love them. They're a little weird but I'm glad I found them :) good shopping day. Yay.
After lots of walking and worn out flip flops, we headed upwards the colosseum to get on the metro. Which in the meanwhile we were in some sort of movie I think. Ha.
It was really great because we figured out Rome all by ourselves. They let us loose in Rome and we did our thang. I don't mean to brag but I did most of the directing and I did a pretty darn good job. I figured out what road we needed to be on and which metro to take. We didn't get lost once. Me and my map can pretty much do anything. Call me a nerd cause I'm sure it was true today. Mega tourist. But at least we had a good day full of awesome directions :)
We got back on the metros. Which I think are the coolest and best inventions ever and decided to randomly get off wherever and do whatever. So we got off, had a lil adventure and searched for gelatto. Then back to the hotel.
I was sitting in the lobby with Kelly and Tyler walks in. He was all "I just met someone who knows you". Background: Tyler has been giving me crap this whole time. I carried his luggage along with my own and his backpack along with my own and my 2 other bags half way across Athens with me and we decided that instead of monetary payment for being a "tour guide" on this trip, I got nominated to be his personal slave. Solid. Moral of the story: Me and Tyler's relationship: he gives 5, I give 95. On a good day.
That was long background and really had almost no relevance to the story but I typed it and I'm not deleting it. Anyways!!! I didn't believe him. I thought it'd be some joke. But he was like "No it's some elder from Elko. Elder Gavin?" I was all "whaaat? Who?" he was all "Joshua Gavin" and then I realized it was Josh GaRvin!!! Tyler saw him at church here in Rome and Josh and he had a mutual friend. Me! What a freaking small world huh?? I'm still amazed right now. I wanna go say hi tomorrow. I probs will. After Pompeii! Tomorrow should be great!
As I am now, soon will you be also. :)
Anyways, today was a great day! We had another free day which I love.
We all started out together. First stop: the Vatican. Let me just say that it's one of the coolest places I've ever been. So much beautiful architecture. Incredible paintings. By the 17th museum in 2 weeks, the sculptures and statues all start to become the same thing. But these were different. More modern. There was just something that I really loved. It made me respect and appreciate the Pope and Catholics in general more.
The Sistine Chapel is connected to all the Vatican stuff so we went there too And "wow" is about the only thing I can say. How does one man have so much patience? To paint those incredible masterpieces in just under 4 years? That's a gift from God. I can't explain it; it's just something one has to experience for themselves. I spent like almost 3 hours at the Vatican and I would do it again.
After that we headed to St. John's Basilica. It's so pretty. I didn't get to go in cause there was a two hour wait but the outside was gorgeous. Rome has fountains everywhere. It's beautiful.
We decided to take a recharge after that when I got on Facebook and took care of business. Shout out to my girl Kelsie Greenhalgh:
Hi. It's your birthday and I'm happy about that. Tell Cloyd and Bev thanks a ton for deciding to add a 3rd angel to their family. (You). I miss you a lot. You were the last family/friend I saw and it makes me miss you lots more. I can't wait to see you. Have a good day being all 19 and stuff. Let me know how it goes. Love you long time.
After the much needed break, Kelly, Morghen and I went to the bone museum. When I say bone museum I don't mean like a few small mammal bones here and there. We're talking human bones on everything. Chandeliers made out of cervical, thoracic and lumbar spinal bone. Designs on the wall from broken mandibles. There are different rooms so they have different themes but there ate friars and monks in all of them. Some of them are fully dressed, some not. Some completely decomposed and others with their skin still in tact. Laying on a bed of femurs or sitting on their pelvic bone couch. Super creepy but at the same time way cool. The last room had little kid skeletons in it and a tombstone that read something like "as we are now soon you will be also". Creepilicious. I don't know how they all died but I assumed the bubonic plague. We asked at the end of the church but the lady was more concerned with the fact that we weren't in a single file line. So we read this paper and all it said was that they were all religious and their bodies were brought here to be apart of the now "bone church". Weirrrrdd!
Then we headed to the Spanish Steps again because yesterday we stayed for like point five cause there was a concert and everyone was sitting on them. Got some pictures and then went shopping.
When shopping, I'm always more inclined to buy something when I hear American music blasting in the background. I like the clothes more when I can sing along and have a good dance with the clothes before I purchase to Katy Perry or Lady G. I know that's really stupid of me but I'm gunna be honest. It's fun and surprisingly it happens a lot.
We went back to the place we went last night where I took the picture in front of the fountain with my gelatto (in case anyone is stalking my Facebook pics really well) which I found out is called the Piazza Narvona. So pretty. One of my favorite spots for sure. Ate a little. People watched a little. Loved life a lot.
Then we shopped some more and I found the Aladdin pants I've been eagerly searching for. I love them. They're a little weird but I'm glad I found them :) good shopping day. Yay.
After lots of walking and worn out flip flops, we headed upwards the colosseum to get on the metro. Which in the meanwhile we were in some sort of movie I think. Ha.
It was really great because we figured out Rome all by ourselves. They let us loose in Rome and we did our thang. I don't mean to brag but I did most of the directing and I did a pretty darn good job. I figured out what road we needed to be on and which metro to take. We didn't get lost once. Me and my map can pretty much do anything. Call me a nerd cause I'm sure it was true today. Mega tourist. But at least we had a good day full of awesome directions :)
We got back on the metros. Which I think are the coolest and best inventions ever and decided to randomly get off wherever and do whatever. So we got off, had a lil adventure and searched for gelatto. Then back to the hotel.
I was sitting in the lobby with Kelly and Tyler walks in. He was all "I just met someone who knows you". Background: Tyler has been giving me crap this whole time. I carried his luggage along with my own and his backpack along with my own and my 2 other bags half way across Athens with me and we decided that instead of monetary payment for being a "tour guide" on this trip, I got nominated to be his personal slave. Solid. Moral of the story: Me and Tyler's relationship: he gives 5, I give 95. On a good day.
That was long background and really had almost no relevance to the story but I typed it and I'm not deleting it. Anyways!!! I didn't believe him. I thought it'd be some joke. But he was like "No it's some elder from Elko. Elder Gavin?" I was all "whaaat? Who?" he was all "Joshua Gavin" and then I realized it was Josh GaRvin!!! Tyler saw him at church here in Rome and Josh and he had a mutual friend. Me! What a freaking small world huh?? I'm still amazed right now. I wanna go say hi tomorrow. I probs will. After Pompeii! Tomorrow should be great!
As I am now, soon will you be also. :)
Monday, August 1, 2011
Rome, Italy
Chow bellas!
What a day. We had a business visit this morning with some guy from the commerce of Rome or Something. He was sweet. And spoke Italian. Which is great. So we had a translator too.
Then it was free time for the rest of the day. First of all, we have a Fat Kids Club. Me, Kelly, Danielle, and Morghen. Decided on one of our crazy night adventures because we love gelatto more than life. Fat kid club (FKC) sticks together. Love them. We usually have add ons too but we are the original fatties. I do a lot with them.
We decided that we needed to do laundry. I don't know if anyone will understand how happy I was to do laundry. Everything I packed was terribly smelly. You'd think we were in a candy store, not a laundromat. But it was so nice. And twas lovely not to smell.
Then we went to eat at this cute place with Italian food of course. So good. I got pizza and I don't even like pizza but it was probs the best I've ever had. I can't wait for real Italian spaghetti!! My fav.
We went back and got all nice lookin for Tour de Tyler. He served his mission in Italy so he knows what's up and he's our facilitator too so he offered to be our tour guide sorta.
We met and metroed it to the colosseum. So cool. It's so crazy to be able to see it in real life. It was beautiful. We went and saw some stuff around it too. It's beautiful. I love Rome. It's probably the most romantic city I've ever been to. Music everywhere, beautiful architecture. It's so sweet.
We went to the governmental building where Stalin delivered his speeches which is really pretty, then to the fountain on When In Rome, then the parthenon. Then gelatto. Mint chocolate chip obviously. Best gelatto ever. Seriously.
Then we sat in front of this fountain and listened to "The Streetles" (haha) and other musical people. They were great. P.S. I have an Italian boy story kinda long and I'm tired but I'll write about it later But basically I got a bracelet he made out of it. Oh Italy :)
We went to the trevvi fountain and the Spanish stairs where Julius Cesar walked. It was super cool.
Then I managed to navigate the group to the hotel. Italy is pretty easy to do so. I live this city. And Italy!
I love and miss you all. I'm more than halfway through! :/ life goes by fast. Let the people you care about know how you feel. That was my deep moment of the night. Love you all!!
Adio!
What a day. We had a business visit this morning with some guy from the commerce of Rome or Something. He was sweet. And spoke Italian. Which is great. So we had a translator too.
Then it was free time for the rest of the day. First of all, we have a Fat Kids Club. Me, Kelly, Danielle, and Morghen. Decided on one of our crazy night adventures because we love gelatto more than life. Fat kid club (FKC) sticks together. Love them. We usually have add ons too but we are the original fatties. I do a lot with them.
We decided that we needed to do laundry. I don't know if anyone will understand how happy I was to do laundry. Everything I packed was terribly smelly. You'd think we were in a candy store, not a laundromat. But it was so nice. And twas lovely not to smell.
Then we went to eat at this cute place with Italian food of course. So good. I got pizza and I don't even like pizza but it was probs the best I've ever had. I can't wait for real Italian spaghetti!! My fav.
We went back and got all nice lookin for Tour de Tyler. He served his mission in Italy so he knows what's up and he's our facilitator too so he offered to be our tour guide sorta.
We met and metroed it to the colosseum. So cool. It's so crazy to be able to see it in real life. It was beautiful. We went and saw some stuff around it too. It's beautiful. I love Rome. It's probably the most romantic city I've ever been to. Music everywhere, beautiful architecture. It's so sweet.
We went to the governmental building where Stalin delivered his speeches which is really pretty, then to the fountain on When In Rome, then the parthenon. Then gelatto. Mint chocolate chip obviously. Best gelatto ever. Seriously.
Then we sat in front of this fountain and listened to "The Streetles" (haha) and other musical people. They were great. P.S. I have an Italian boy story kinda long and I'm tired but I'll write about it later But basically I got a bracelet he made out of it. Oh Italy :)
We went to the trevvi fountain and the Spanish stairs where Julius Cesar walked. It was super cool.
Then I managed to navigate the group to the hotel. Italy is pretty easy to do so. I live this city. And Italy!
I love and miss you all. I'm more than halfway through! :/ life goes by fast. Let the people you care about know how you feel. That was my deep moment of the night. Love you all!!
Adio!
Athens, Greece to Rome, Italy
Bonjourno!
This morning we woke up and got all dressed for church. Then we walked to this little tiny building and had sacrament with the few members in the Athens branch. There are just as many If not more, missionaries than members. It's great though. They were all so sweet and we wore these translation devices so we could understand. It's so cool how the gospel is the same no matter where you go :)
After church we went to this museum. Not too sure what it was but it was next to the acropolis. At this point, all museums start looking the same. But it's still really cool.
After that, some of us went on a hunt for our last good gyro :( we found some good ones and then we went shopping.
K we found some really great deals and cool stuff. I wish I had an endless supply of money to buy stuff for people. Ended the shopping trip with nothing other than gelato. It was blueberry cheesecake. I typically hate blueberries but this was freaking delicious.
We left Athens, got on a plane and headed to Rome. One thing: never use Easy Jet airlines. I'm sure it was cheap but also super crappy. One carry on. No personal item. Security is insane. You have to take your electronics out of their covers and our director got taken into questioning because of the buckle on his shoe. It kept beeping in the metal detector thing. Ridiculous. Oh and then they don't give you even drinks but they can sell you giant things of perfume. This was a 2 hour flight and we didn't get so much as a peanut or candy. On our 25 minute flight we got candy and a drink. Anywho. It was frustrating.
Then after waiting an hour for them to put our luggage on the belt thing we finally started heading out.
Alright so I may have overpacked. A lot. If I don't look like a diva tourist, I don't know what does. My bag was too full at the airport the first time so I had to put stuff in my backpack. It's completely full with my quad scriptures (why I didn't just use the ones on my phone...I couldn't tell ya) and clothes. Brown big bag on one arm and rockin the side bag along with my 50 pound suitcase. Disaster on ice.
So because I have every item I've ever owned attached to my body, of course we'd have to walk 40 miles to our hotel. Picture this: 30 BYU kids and 2 other families packed in a nice cluster hauling 4 weeks of luggage and souvenirs around a foreign airport. we tried the metro but it was closed cause it was 10 at night. So we drug all of our stuff down these giant staircases to the metro an had to drag them back up. My method: get a head start and run up the stairs prayin you have enough momentum to get you up and not fall back down. I was the epitome of rolly backpack girl running across campus.
We finally got to the train thing which was actually open. I felt like I was on Harry Potter. Then we drug our stuff up some more staircases to the busses. We're all like 5 centimeters away from each other and I had a serious case of the midnight crazies. I was crying. From laughter. Nothing was funny but I was crying from laughing so hard. I'm glad these people love me!
We got off the bus and it was literally like a mile to our hotel. I have calluses today from dragging my suitcase around. I'm over it.
That's my phrase for this trip "I'm over it". I can't feel my feet and I'm dying of heat exhaustion...I'm over it.
Overall: crazy day but I'm in Rome!!
This morning we woke up and got all dressed for church. Then we walked to this little tiny building and had sacrament with the few members in the Athens branch. There are just as many If not more, missionaries than members. It's great though. They were all so sweet and we wore these translation devices so we could understand. It's so cool how the gospel is the same no matter where you go :)
After church we went to this museum. Not too sure what it was but it was next to the acropolis. At this point, all museums start looking the same. But it's still really cool.
After that, some of us went on a hunt for our last good gyro :( we found some good ones and then we went shopping.
K we found some really great deals and cool stuff. I wish I had an endless supply of money to buy stuff for people. Ended the shopping trip with nothing other than gelato. It was blueberry cheesecake. I typically hate blueberries but this was freaking delicious.
We left Athens, got on a plane and headed to Rome. One thing: never use Easy Jet airlines. I'm sure it was cheap but also super crappy. One carry on. No personal item. Security is insane. You have to take your electronics out of their covers and our director got taken into questioning because of the buckle on his shoe. It kept beeping in the metal detector thing. Ridiculous. Oh and then they don't give you even drinks but they can sell you giant things of perfume. This was a 2 hour flight and we didn't get so much as a peanut or candy. On our 25 minute flight we got candy and a drink. Anywho. It was frustrating.
Then after waiting an hour for them to put our luggage on the belt thing we finally started heading out.
Alright so I may have overpacked. A lot. If I don't look like a diva tourist, I don't know what does. My bag was too full at the airport the first time so I had to put stuff in my backpack. It's completely full with my quad scriptures (why I didn't just use the ones on my phone...I couldn't tell ya) and clothes. Brown big bag on one arm and rockin the side bag along with my 50 pound suitcase. Disaster on ice.
So because I have every item I've ever owned attached to my body, of course we'd have to walk 40 miles to our hotel. Picture this: 30 BYU kids and 2 other families packed in a nice cluster hauling 4 weeks of luggage and souvenirs around a foreign airport. we tried the metro but it was closed cause it was 10 at night. So we drug all of our stuff down these giant staircases to the metro an had to drag them back up. My method: get a head start and run up the stairs prayin you have enough momentum to get you up and not fall back down. I was the epitome of rolly backpack girl running across campus.
We finally got to the train thing which was actually open. I felt like I was on Harry Potter. Then we drug our stuff up some more staircases to the busses. We're all like 5 centimeters away from each other and I had a serious case of the midnight crazies. I was crying. From laughter. Nothing was funny but I was crying from laughing so hard. I'm glad these people love me!
We got off the bus and it was literally like a mile to our hotel. I have calluses today from dragging my suitcase around. I'm over it.
That's my phrase for this trip "I'm over it". I can't feel my feet and I'm dying of heat exhaustion...I'm over it.
Overall: crazy day but I'm in Rome!!
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Delphi to Meteora to Athens, Greece
You guys...can you believe I've almost been here for 2 weeks??? I have 2 weeks left! It's insane to think that something I looked forward to for so long is almost done. I've loved every second though.
We started off in Delphi this morning and took a 4 hour bus ride to Meteora. Literally translated it means "hanging in the sky" like meteor. And it had that name for a reason. There are beautiful monasteries on top of these gigantic hillsides. It kinda looks like Moab. But better. They don't know how the monks got the materials up there to build those beautiful buildings. Some theories are that they hiked up there with pegs or that they sent up a kite with a rope and then a bigger rope and so on. I don't understand it and I think that adds to the beauty but it's incredible. Only males could live there. Male monks, male kitties, everything. And they couldn't leave either. So they have like a pantry full of skulls and bones from past monks. It's pretty sweet.
When you look down from up there its like a rainforest. So much to see and so much green! It's amazing!!
I know that I say everything is so cool but this has been my favorite ancient place so far.
The plumbing isn't exactly the best in Greece. Especially up on a giant cliff. You can't flush toilet paper anywhere I've been yet. You throw everything away in a trash can next to the toilet. It's sick. But it's cause the plumbing sucks here. Maybe in Italy I'll have the privilege of flushing again. Sometimes there's just a piece of marble with foot sticky things and a hole in the ground and you squat and let it happen. It's super Nast.
By the way...everything here is made of marble. That's like a delicacy for us but they have tons of it. And no wood. Wood is a delicacy for them. It's funny. And slippery.
After Meteora, we had another 6 hour bus ride back to Athens. It was awful. I had a bad case of bus fever by hour 4. So Morghen and I proceeded to create a dance party which soon involved nearly the entire bus. It was getting wild. It all started with a little bit of my girl Shania (Twain).
Then we played "which boy is more attractive due to his knowledge of country music". Which ended in the whole world assuming I'm the biggest hick if their lives. Apparently they wouldn't last a second in Elko. ;) I'll defend Elko til the day I die. I love it.
It wad getting real crazy on the bus though. The BYU contract tells us that nothing is going to happen between and one female and male in this group during the duration of this trip but Biology tells us otherwise. Hahaha. Just kidding. Sort of. There's just a lot of sexual tension on the bus. Especially after 10 hours. I swear they are letting extra hormones enter our bodies via the "air conditioner" After so many hours on a bus. It's really amusing.
We finally got off the bus alive and mostly sane and then we went on a hunt for nothing other than...ice cream!! We went to downtown Athens and got some ice cream then went up to see the riots. They're crazy. And angry. Lots of police with giant shields and sticks everywhere.
Then we watched the changing of the guard. That's awesome. You have to be at least 6"1 to be in the guard and you basically stand and protect the big house behind you. There are only 2 of them at a time. So they switch dudes every hour. They march half a mile up the street from their hiding spot to the house, dance around in their pom pom shoes, yell some crap and then change. It's kinda cool. And weird. They don't blink. Or talk. But we could take pictures with them. But you have to be appropriate with them. That was rough. I just wanted to be really immature and poke him or something. But no worries, I refrained. I'm just wondering now how they don't blink with all that flashing in their eyes. Ouch. Hi. Ouch.
Did I ever talk about my latest roommate, Kyra? She's great also. Big surprise. She is 25 I do believe. From Provo. She's a flight attendant from SkyWest and she stays in Elko. She said she hates it but she stays at Red Lion. I say no wonder. Its probs cause you went to the Coffee Garden. Big no no. She's really pretty though. I'm pretty sure she's the baby in her fam. Not too sure but I like her.
Now I'm back in my hotel. The one we stayed in the other night. And I'm going to sleep! Good night. Love y'all!
We started off in Delphi this morning and took a 4 hour bus ride to Meteora. Literally translated it means "hanging in the sky" like meteor. And it had that name for a reason. There are beautiful monasteries on top of these gigantic hillsides. It kinda looks like Moab. But better. They don't know how the monks got the materials up there to build those beautiful buildings. Some theories are that they hiked up there with pegs or that they sent up a kite with a rope and then a bigger rope and so on. I don't understand it and I think that adds to the beauty but it's incredible. Only males could live there. Male monks, male kitties, everything. And they couldn't leave either. So they have like a pantry full of skulls and bones from past monks. It's pretty sweet.
When you look down from up there its like a rainforest. So much to see and so much green! It's amazing!!
I know that I say everything is so cool but this has been my favorite ancient place so far.
The plumbing isn't exactly the best in Greece. Especially up on a giant cliff. You can't flush toilet paper anywhere I've been yet. You throw everything away in a trash can next to the toilet. It's sick. But it's cause the plumbing sucks here. Maybe in Italy I'll have the privilege of flushing again. Sometimes there's just a piece of marble with foot sticky things and a hole in the ground and you squat and let it happen. It's super Nast.
By the way...everything here is made of marble. That's like a delicacy for us but they have tons of it. And no wood. Wood is a delicacy for them. It's funny. And slippery.
After Meteora, we had another 6 hour bus ride back to Athens. It was awful. I had a bad case of bus fever by hour 4. So Morghen and I proceeded to create a dance party which soon involved nearly the entire bus. It was getting wild. It all started with a little bit of my girl Shania (Twain).
Then we played "which boy is more attractive due to his knowledge of country music". Which ended in the whole world assuming I'm the biggest hick if their lives. Apparently they wouldn't last a second in Elko. ;) I'll defend Elko til the day I die. I love it.
It wad getting real crazy on the bus though. The BYU contract tells us that nothing is going to happen between and one female and male in this group during the duration of this trip but Biology tells us otherwise. Hahaha. Just kidding. Sort of. There's just a lot of sexual tension on the bus. Especially after 10 hours. I swear they are letting extra hormones enter our bodies via the "air conditioner" After so many hours on a bus. It's really amusing.
We finally got off the bus alive and mostly sane and then we went on a hunt for nothing other than...ice cream!! We went to downtown Athens and got some ice cream then went up to see the riots. They're crazy. And angry. Lots of police with giant shields and sticks everywhere.
Then we watched the changing of the guard. That's awesome. You have to be at least 6"1 to be in the guard and you basically stand and protect the big house behind you. There are only 2 of them at a time. So they switch dudes every hour. They march half a mile up the street from their hiding spot to the house, dance around in their pom pom shoes, yell some crap and then change. It's kinda cool. And weird. They don't blink. Or talk. But we could take pictures with them. But you have to be appropriate with them. That was rough. I just wanted to be really immature and poke him or something. But no worries, I refrained. I'm just wondering now how they don't blink with all that flashing in their eyes. Ouch. Hi. Ouch.
Did I ever talk about my latest roommate, Kyra? She's great also. Big surprise. She is 25 I do believe. From Provo. She's a flight attendant from SkyWest and she stays in Elko. She said she hates it but she stays at Red Lion. I say no wonder. Its probs cause you went to the Coffee Garden. Big no no. She's really pretty though. I'm pretty sure she's the baby in her fam. Not too sure but I like her.
Now I'm back in my hotel. The one we stayed in the other night. And I'm going to sleep! Good night. Love y'all!
Athens to Corith to Delphi, Greece
This morning I woke up and got on a bus to the ancient city of Corinth. It was like 4 hours away and real hot but it was cool cause we saw the place where Paul wrote the book of Corinthians. We also saw these giant canals that are 95 meters deep that the Greeks built. They were so deep.
Then we got back on the bus and went to Delphi. We got out and saw the stadium where a bunch of naked Greek guys raced around. Kinda weird. But it was a nice hike and it was pretty when we got to the top. I'm gunna have a toned butt by the end of this trip from all the hiking we do.
We had a super secret surprise when we got back on the bus. We had this giant dinner under this really big tree. It was really good. Greek salad, spaghetti, bread, fries, souvlaki, and peaches. It was yummy!
Then we went to this beach and watched the sunset and got some ice cream. Yumm.
We stayed the night in Delphi because in Europe, bus drivers can only drive 12 hours a day max. They have a paper log that gets checked by the police if they get pulled over and you get a nice four digit fine if you go over your time.
We got to pick our roommates and I chose Morghen. A bunch if the girls stayed up and had a girls night which was fun. As always. Our hotel was so cool too. It looked a little grandma at first but it surprised me in the end. It wAs a cute lil cabin type thing with 3 beds and a balcony. Loved it!
P.s. The taxi drivers are all on strike yet again because of the economy but they blocked the port where the cruise ships dock so all the cruise people can't get off the ships and there are no taxis. Crazy huh?
LOL :)
Then we got back on the bus and went to Delphi. We got out and saw the stadium where a bunch of naked Greek guys raced around. Kinda weird. But it was a nice hike and it was pretty when we got to the top. I'm gunna have a toned butt by the end of this trip from all the hiking we do.
We had a super secret surprise when we got back on the bus. We had this giant dinner under this really big tree. It was really good. Greek salad, spaghetti, bread, fries, souvlaki, and peaches. It was yummy!
Then we went to this beach and watched the sunset and got some ice cream. Yumm.
We stayed the night in Delphi because in Europe, bus drivers can only drive 12 hours a day max. They have a paper log that gets checked by the police if they get pulled over and you get a nice four digit fine if you go over your time.
We got to pick our roommates and I chose Morghen. A bunch if the girls stayed up and had a girls night which was fun. As always. Our hotel was so cool too. It looked a little grandma at first but it surprised me in the end. It wAs a cute lil cabin type thing with 3 beds and a balcony. Loved it!
P.s. The taxi drivers are all on strike yet again because of the economy but they blocked the port where the cruise ships dock so all the cruise people can't get off the ships and there are no taxis. Crazy huh?
LOL :)
Friday, July 29, 2011
Athens, Greece
So I'm feelin real tired cause I got like 4 hours of sleep. I'm not sure if you realize how hard it is to keep your eyes open during business visits on 4 hours of sleep.
We woke up real early and visited the Parthenon. That was really cool. It was so different from what I expected. It's literally right in the middle of the city. We walked to it from our hotel. It's all ancient and stuff and desolate and then right outside the gates, there are houses as far as you can see.
The population of Athens is about 5 million. That's a lot. But only 1/3 of Istanbul. Can you even imagine what Istanbul was like?? Just think...the entire state of Utah has 3 million people. Istanbul is 6 times that. Insane huh?
The acropolis is probably my favorite ancient ruins place I've seen so far. I just really liked it. The only thing about it is that all of these ancient ruins have bren redone because earthquakes have destroyed what they actually looked like. So the Parthenon was under construction when we went there. I'm like really? The reason we come here is to be like "omg I totes went to this place and it was real; I have a picture." then we go there an there's a little dump truck 2 feet away from my picture. Not cool. Whatevs. I still liked it.
Greece really values it's students so we all get half off at museums and such but because I'm a baby(under 19), I get in free everywhere! It's really nice. It's weird being the baby. I've always been the oldest and I kinda like being a lil girl.
We got done there and got a gyro. Which is yet another obsession. I love Greek food (Greek yogurt=my fav). I'm going to miss gyros when I come home. I honestly have one like errday. Haha.
Then I went back and got all nice and dressy for business visits. I straightened my hair for the first time since I've been gone. I've been scared to try it cause the first day a lot of the girls fried their straightners cause the voltage is way stronger here. But I got over my fear and looked decent for the first time yesterday.
Then we went to eurobank, the main bank of Europe and Alba which is a MBA school. The first one of Greece. It's a cool story and I did manage to keep my eyes open...mostly. Ha.
We then went to the temple of Zeus to watch the sunset. It was gorgeous. I took some sweet pictures. Can wait for those to hit FB. Stay tuned :)
We any back to our hotel and it was 10 and some of us were starving. So Morghen, Kelly, Danielle and I hit the town. We wanted gyros to eat. Of course. So we found this place and bought some.
But here's the thing. I'm pretty sure everyone hates America. Here are some instances where I think you'd agree: 1. I'm singing Teenage Dream (which keep in mind, they play in Greece) and some small boy with an umbrella gets 2 feet away from me, points, and yells at me then walks off....what?? Oh I'm sorry, I forgot that it was illegal for Americans to sing the American songs!! ok whatever though, I got over it. But 2. We get our gyros and ask some old man if we can sit outside the restaurant where we bought our food. Danielle "Can we sit here?" this is what he does: SHH (shakes his head) and walks away. Really dude? I know you understand us and yes, we're Americans but I feel like we at least deserve words. Anyways, people hate America. I'm over it.
So we ate at out home: Starbucks. They like us there. This little gypsy girl came up to us and tried to sell us a fan and I was laughing to the point where I was crying because she was Adrianna's twin (YEEEEESS) (Marissa that ones for you). It was sad though cause she's like 7 but I couldn't help it.
We were crazy but had the best time wandering around late at night. Maybe I'm just naive but I never feel like I'm in danger so scary things for people are real fun for me. The end :)
Some things about Greece to write in the fact books: 1. There are more birds than I'd ever care to see on my life. (barf) 2. There are more dogs than birds. Which is saying a lot. They have a saying in Greece "throw a rock and you'll hit either a politician or a dog". That's no joke. They are everywhere even inside. I guess people got kicked out of their houses and had to leave their dogs behind which created tons of stray dogs and it's been the same ever since. 3. They have these symbols of blue eyes everywhere. They're called evil eyes and they're supposed to protect you from jealousy and obviously evil. So they're all over Greece and turkey. It's pretty cool. 4. I have no idea where I am at all. In Turkey, I could pretend that I could read stuff but here I can't even read the letters much less words.
K H squared out. Byeeee! :)
We woke up real early and visited the Parthenon. That was really cool. It was so different from what I expected. It's literally right in the middle of the city. We walked to it from our hotel. It's all ancient and stuff and desolate and then right outside the gates, there are houses as far as you can see.
The population of Athens is about 5 million. That's a lot. But only 1/3 of Istanbul. Can you even imagine what Istanbul was like?? Just think...the entire state of Utah has 3 million people. Istanbul is 6 times that. Insane huh?
The acropolis is probably my favorite ancient ruins place I've seen so far. I just really liked it. The only thing about it is that all of these ancient ruins have bren redone because earthquakes have destroyed what they actually looked like. So the Parthenon was under construction when we went there. I'm like really? The reason we come here is to be like "omg I totes went to this place and it was real; I have a picture." then we go there an there's a little dump truck 2 feet away from my picture. Not cool. Whatevs. I still liked it.
Greece really values it's students so we all get half off at museums and such but because I'm a baby(under 19), I get in free everywhere! It's really nice. It's weird being the baby. I've always been the oldest and I kinda like being a lil girl.
We got done there and got a gyro. Which is yet another obsession. I love Greek food (Greek yogurt=my fav). I'm going to miss gyros when I come home. I honestly have one like errday. Haha.
Then I went back and got all nice and dressy for business visits. I straightened my hair for the first time since I've been gone. I've been scared to try it cause the first day a lot of the girls fried their straightners cause the voltage is way stronger here. But I got over my fear and looked decent for the first time yesterday.
Then we went to eurobank, the main bank of Europe and Alba which is a MBA school. The first one of Greece. It's a cool story and I did manage to keep my eyes open...mostly. Ha.
We then went to the temple of Zeus to watch the sunset. It was gorgeous. I took some sweet pictures. Can wait for those to hit FB. Stay tuned :)
We any back to our hotel and it was 10 and some of us were starving. So Morghen, Kelly, Danielle and I hit the town. We wanted gyros to eat. Of course. So we found this place and bought some.
But here's the thing. I'm pretty sure everyone hates America. Here are some instances where I think you'd agree: 1. I'm singing Teenage Dream (which keep in mind, they play in Greece) and some small boy with an umbrella gets 2 feet away from me, points, and yells at me then walks off....what?? Oh I'm sorry, I forgot that it was illegal for Americans to sing the American songs!! ok whatever though, I got over it. But 2. We get our gyros and ask some old man if we can sit outside the restaurant where we bought our food. Danielle "Can we sit here?" this is what he does: SHH (shakes his head) and walks away. Really dude? I know you understand us and yes, we're Americans but I feel like we at least deserve words. Anyways, people hate America. I'm over it.
So we ate at out home: Starbucks. They like us there. This little gypsy girl came up to us and tried to sell us a fan and I was laughing to the point where I was crying because she was Adrianna's twin (YEEEEESS) (Marissa that ones for you). It was sad though cause she's like 7 but I couldn't help it.
We were crazy but had the best time wandering around late at night. Maybe I'm just naive but I never feel like I'm in danger so scary things for people are real fun for me. The end :)
Some things about Greece to write in the fact books: 1. There are more birds than I'd ever care to see on my life. (barf) 2. There are more dogs than birds. Which is saying a lot. They have a saying in Greece "throw a rock and you'll hit either a politician or a dog". That's no joke. They are everywhere even inside. I guess people got kicked out of their houses and had to leave their dogs behind which created tons of stray dogs and it's been the same ever since. 3. They have these symbols of blue eyes everywhere. They're called evil eyes and they're supposed to protect you from jealousy and obviously evil. So they're all over Greece and turkey. It's pretty cool. 4. I have no idea where I am at all. In Turkey, I could pretend that I could read stuff but here I can't even read the letters much less words.
K H squared out. Byeeee! :)
Santorini to Athens, Greece
It's my last day in Santorini :( I love it here. I don't think I could ever live here cause I'd get island fever but there is something so different and beautiful about Santorini that I could spend a long time here and not get sick of it.
We woke up this morning and ate and we had another free day but we were all exhausted from our exciting day yesterday so we just wanted to chill. Eww! When we were packing, Morghen and I were sitting in our beds and she stood up and a giant cockroach crawled out from under her stuff! This was like 5 minutes after she was all "Guys, I'm surprised that I haven't seen that many bugs." it was sick. I screamed.
We packed a little. Tanned a little (it was 90 degrees with a clear blue sky). Jammed a little. It was so nice to have a little break. No deadlines. Just livin my life.
We went and shopped a little too. Took some pictures. It was great. Then we ended the day with some gelatto. K can I just say that the whole "gelatto is it's own food group" thing is real life? I eat gelatto at least once a day. As it's own meal. Screw dinner. Gimme some gelatto. It's the best. And of course mint chocolate chip is the best.
We went back to the pool where we saw topless women and men in speedos. Everyone is so free here. Its disturbing. Mike and I came up with a new rule: your outfit should not punish other people. Speedos and women who don't fit the bikini rules definitely punished me. Then we chilled some more and it was time to go :( as soon as I almost know how to get back to the hotel, we leave. Boo.
We had a 25 minute plane ride to Athens from Santorini. I sat next to Dr. Money's 7 year old daughter, Caroline, and we colored and drew pictures. I love her. She's the best. I taught her how to braid and now she's braiding everything in site. Love it!
Our tour guide met us at the airport and they all have signs that say "BYU" but this tour guides sign said "Go Utes". Boo. It was super cute though cause he's like this old man and I couldn't be mad at that.
We got there at sunset and drove to our hotel. By then I was starving so we went out on the town. Our hotel is in the heart of Athens. Less than a block away from the riots. They're so cool! People are all pissy about the state of their economy so they camped out in front of the government building or whatever it is in their little tents. They have signs everywhere but the only time they protest is in the middle o the night. So it's hard to sleep but they're completely harmless.
We went to McDonalds in Athens and it was cool. Everything is a little more expensive but it was pretty much the same. Except they give you mayonnaise and their fries are potato wedges. It's good. And I got a baby stereo that plays Black Eyed Peas in my happy meal. Yay.
Oh my gosh. If you know me, you know how I love my lemonade. Get this: Fanta lemonade. They have it here!! It's like a combo of lemonade and sprite but 20 times better. I'm addicted to it. Seriously.
This is my life on July 27. Adio! Love and miss y'all. :)
We woke up this morning and ate and we had another free day but we were all exhausted from our exciting day yesterday so we just wanted to chill. Eww! When we were packing, Morghen and I were sitting in our beds and she stood up and a giant cockroach crawled out from under her stuff! This was like 5 minutes after she was all "Guys, I'm surprised that I haven't seen that many bugs." it was sick. I screamed.
We packed a little. Tanned a little (it was 90 degrees with a clear blue sky). Jammed a little. It was so nice to have a little break. No deadlines. Just livin my life.
We went and shopped a little too. Took some pictures. It was great. Then we ended the day with some gelatto. K can I just say that the whole "gelatto is it's own food group" thing is real life? I eat gelatto at least once a day. As it's own meal. Screw dinner. Gimme some gelatto. It's the best. And of course mint chocolate chip is the best.
We went back to the pool where we saw topless women and men in speedos. Everyone is so free here. Its disturbing. Mike and I came up with a new rule: your outfit should not punish other people. Speedos and women who don't fit the bikini rules definitely punished me. Then we chilled some more and it was time to go :( as soon as I almost know how to get back to the hotel, we leave. Boo.
We had a 25 minute plane ride to Athens from Santorini. I sat next to Dr. Money's 7 year old daughter, Caroline, and we colored and drew pictures. I love her. She's the best. I taught her how to braid and now she's braiding everything in site. Love it!
Our tour guide met us at the airport and they all have signs that say "BYU" but this tour guides sign said "Go Utes". Boo. It was super cute though cause he's like this old man and I couldn't be mad at that.
We got there at sunset and drove to our hotel. By then I was starving so we went out on the town. Our hotel is in the heart of Athens. Less than a block away from the riots. They're so cool! People are all pissy about the state of their economy so they camped out in front of the government building or whatever it is in their little tents. They have signs everywhere but the only time they protest is in the middle o the night. So it's hard to sleep but they're completely harmless.
We went to McDonalds in Athens and it was cool. Everything is a little more expensive but it was pretty much the same. Except they give you mayonnaise and their fries are potato wedges. It's good. And I got a baby stereo that plays Black Eyed Peas in my happy meal. Yay.
Oh my gosh. If you know me, you know how I love my lemonade. Get this: Fanta lemonade. They have it here!! It's like a combo of lemonade and sprite but 20 times better. I'm addicted to it. Seriously.
This is my life on July 27. Adio! Love and miss y'all. :)
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Santorini, Greece
You guys. I just had the BEST day of my life. (I just had the best day of my life and you sat here doing homework. How does that make you feel? ;) )
I don't even know where to begin!!! Probs at the top. K so heres the deal: we had all day to do whatsoever we pleased so we set off. I went with like 12 other people and we ran around like crazy. I kid you not, when we had a chance to break and even now, my head is spinning.
So we ate some breakfast and decided we wanted to go on the boat tour to the middle of Santorini. For those of you that don't know, Santorini is a volcano! The middle still remains and the outside too but the part in between sunk into the ocean. That's why it's built on the side of a cliff. And it literally just drops down. It's sweet. So we decided to go see the volcano.
Wait...I need to preface all of this. So we're on an island we've never been to before half way across the world, let loose. I'd just like to comment on how impressed I am with the boys (especially dad's) sense of direction. No street signs, no even real roads. The main street is like a one way street. Real confusing. But not once did we get lost. All thanks to dad. Dad is Andrew. Cause he kept all of his sheep in the herd and safe. We did start out the day with 2 big rules which later developed into 3. 1: check your attitude at the door. 2: have the time of your life. That guaranteed a great day. I seriously love and appreciate all of these people I'm only beginning to know and love. Anyways...
We bought our tickets and then went to the black sand beach. So cool. We swam around by that beach for a while, bought us some peach rings (new addiction) and water and caught the bus to the top of the cliff above our boat tour.
Busses in Santorini: sketchy. Old smelly men throwing you around trying to get your euro and sixty cents that they apparently rightfully deserve. We all got close on the bus and I don't mean emotionally. We were all up on each other's grills. Oh and I totes did the bus thing like 6 times today. Def an experience I'll never forget.
So we get to the top and ride a cable car to the dock. We got on our pirate looking boat and headed out to sea.
We hit up this weird cove thing where we swam over to this orangish color water and it was all warm from the volcanic stuff. It was rad.
Then they dropped us off at the bottom of the middle of the volcano and we had to pay to get into the "national park" of the volcano to hike to our death. I actually love paying to be in pain. My fav. It was a rough hike and dad didn't mention we'd be hiking a volcano. I thought we were just going to the beach. Silly little me. It wasn't that bad though. But I mean this is coming from the girl who hiked to a cave and camped in the middle of winter and climbed a waterfall barefoot. I can do anything ;)
So I hiked this volcano in flip flops. It was so sweet though. The view was gorgeous. I would recommend it to anyone.
We hiked back down and got back on our boat and went to the shore. And I rode a DONKEY back up! It was so cool. My lil fellas name was Chester (as decided by me). He was a trooper. And it was like a 12 minute ride to the top of this giant cliff with insane switchbacks. But it was so fun. Seriously that was probs the most fun.
We all ran back to the hotel to get all nice to go to the other side of the island, Oia. It's beautiful. We sat at this little cafe with front row seats of the sunset. It was beautiful. That's something everyone has to see at some point. It was so chill and indescribable really.
I took so many pictures. Can't wait to show them all off! We walked back and now I'm sitting here reminiscing. I love my life.
I said from "acceptance" day that this would be the best day of my life. I had no idea.
I don't even know where to begin!!! Probs at the top. K so heres the deal: we had all day to do whatsoever we pleased so we set off. I went with like 12 other people and we ran around like crazy. I kid you not, when we had a chance to break and even now, my head is spinning.
So we ate some breakfast and decided we wanted to go on the boat tour to the middle of Santorini. For those of you that don't know, Santorini is a volcano! The middle still remains and the outside too but the part in between sunk into the ocean. That's why it's built on the side of a cliff. And it literally just drops down. It's sweet. So we decided to go see the volcano.
Wait...I need to preface all of this. So we're on an island we've never been to before half way across the world, let loose. I'd just like to comment on how impressed I am with the boys (especially dad's) sense of direction. No street signs, no even real roads. The main street is like a one way street. Real confusing. But not once did we get lost. All thanks to dad. Dad is Andrew. Cause he kept all of his sheep in the herd and safe. We did start out the day with 2 big rules which later developed into 3. 1: check your attitude at the door. 2: have the time of your life. That guaranteed a great day. I seriously love and appreciate all of these people I'm only beginning to know and love. Anyways...
We bought our tickets and then went to the black sand beach. So cool. We swam around by that beach for a while, bought us some peach rings (new addiction) and water and caught the bus to the top of the cliff above our boat tour.
Busses in Santorini: sketchy. Old smelly men throwing you around trying to get your euro and sixty cents that they apparently rightfully deserve. We all got close on the bus and I don't mean emotionally. We were all up on each other's grills. Oh and I totes did the bus thing like 6 times today. Def an experience I'll never forget.
So we get to the top and ride a cable car to the dock. We got on our pirate looking boat and headed out to sea.
We hit up this weird cove thing where we swam over to this orangish color water and it was all warm from the volcanic stuff. It was rad.
Then they dropped us off at the bottom of the middle of the volcano and we had to pay to get into the "national park" of the volcano to hike to our death. I actually love paying to be in pain. My fav. It was a rough hike and dad didn't mention we'd be hiking a volcano. I thought we were just going to the beach. Silly little me. It wasn't that bad though. But I mean this is coming from the girl who hiked to a cave and camped in the middle of winter and climbed a waterfall barefoot. I can do anything ;)
So I hiked this volcano in flip flops. It was so sweet though. The view was gorgeous. I would recommend it to anyone.
We hiked back down and got back on our boat and went to the shore. And I rode a DONKEY back up! It was so cool. My lil fellas name was Chester (as decided by me). He was a trooper. And it was like a 12 minute ride to the top of this giant cliff with insane switchbacks. But it was so fun. Seriously that was probs the most fun.
We all ran back to the hotel to get all nice to go to the other side of the island, Oia. It's beautiful. We sat at this little cafe with front row seats of the sunset. It was beautiful. That's something everyone has to see at some point. It was so chill and indescribable really.
I took so many pictures. Can't wait to show them all off! We walked back and now I'm sitting here reminiscing. I love my life.
I said from "acceptance" day that this would be the best day of my life. I had no idea.
Patmos to Kos to Santorini, Greece
We started off at the prison where John the Beloved was kept and where he wrote the book of revelations. It was a little cave with like one window. At least it wasn't ridiculously hot. It was sweet though. There was a service going on while we were there and we stuck around for that. I really respect everyone here and their religion because they are so devoted to it. How many people in the world are willing to go swimming in the ocean fully robed? Very few. The only kinda tan you're looking at there is a nose bridge tan. Such good people though.
I dont know if I've mentioned it and it's kinda Kate but there are minnerettes everywhere. The religious people here have call to prayer 5 times a day and these huge towers come on with these people chanting 5 times a day. They were more prevelant in Turkey but theyre here too. It's pretty cool.
Then we headed to the memorial thing made honor of him which was sweet.
Then we traveled. First to Kos. The first boar we got on had like airplane seats and air conditioning. It was awesome. At Kos we ate and shopped around. I taught Caroline how to braid. That's dr. Moneys 6 year old daughter. I love her. Then we got on another boat to Santorini.
K I thought the first one was nice. Uh no. The second one was like a cruise boat. No joke. It was so nice. We were on it for 5 hours and I sat on the top deck and had a heart to heart with Todd and Maren. It was so great. Like I said, everyone is incredible.
Then at like 1 in the a.m. I decided to go try to sleep. We sat in the airplane section of the boat but totes didn't sleep.
So at 3 in the morning we got to Santorini.
My roommates are Danielle and morghan. Danielle is going to be 21. She got baptized at 17 and she just got called to the Conception, Chile mission. I love her. She's one of my favs and I spend a lot of time with her. She's going to make a great missionary. Morghan is freaking hilarious. We have similar senses of humor so she's really fun to be around and joke with.
I'm so tired. And I need to brush my teeth. Eww. Night!
I dont know if I've mentioned it and it's kinda Kate but there are minnerettes everywhere. The religious people here have call to prayer 5 times a day and these huge towers come on with these people chanting 5 times a day. They were more prevelant in Turkey but theyre here too. It's pretty cool.
Then we headed to the memorial thing made honor of him which was sweet.
Then we traveled. First to Kos. The first boar we got on had like airplane seats and air conditioning. It was awesome. At Kos we ate and shopped around. I taught Caroline how to braid. That's dr. Moneys 6 year old daughter. I love her. Then we got on another boat to Santorini.
K I thought the first one was nice. Uh no. The second one was like a cruise boat. No joke. It was so nice. We were on it for 5 hours and I sat on the top deck and had a heart to heart with Todd and Maren. It was so great. Like I said, everyone is incredible.
Then at like 1 in the a.m. I decided to go try to sleep. We sat in the airplane section of the boat but totes didn't sleep.
So at 3 in the morning we got to Santorini.
My roommates are Danielle and morghan. Danielle is going to be 21. She got baptized at 17 and she just got called to the Conception, Chile mission. I love her. She's one of my favs and I spend a lot of time with her. She's going to make a great missionary. Morghan is freaking hilarious. We have similar senses of humor so she's really fun to be around and joke with.
I'm so tired. And I need to brush my teeth. Eww. Night!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Patmos, Greece
I just got to Patmos. We woke up and took a 5 hour boat ride here. It was so great though. The water was completely calm. We probably caught like 5 ways the whole way here. The Mediterranean is the most beautiful sea ever! I can't emphasize enough how blue and clean and gorgeous it is! I'll take a billion pictures and write a thousand words but nothing will ever explain everything I've seen and experienced here.
On the way here some of the girls and myself talked to sister Money, our director's wife. She's incredible. She's a marriage counselor but more importantly she was proposed to 13 times before brother money!! You cannot tell me that's not a world record. We were asking her how she chose him out of the 13 previous bachelors and she talked to us for a while about stuff. She's an amazing woman and so wise. She really opened my eyes and made me realize what I need and what I'm looking for. You find someone who is everything you're not so you can better yourself. Some one who MAKES you a better person. Not someone who you WANT to be better for. Life is about becoming your best and finding people who help you on your quest while taking time to help others on their own journey.
Thats really deep but it's just a taste of the things I've learned on this trip. When you go out on your own, half a world away from everyone and everything you knew, you learn a lot about yourself. I wish everyone had this opportunity and I'm so grateful for it.
It's incredible how everyone on this trip can fall asleep in like 5 minutes. Let us sit down and we're out in 5. There are going to be so many pictures from the directors of us all sleeping. I took a nap on a super comfy bench on the side of the boat as the sun shone and the breeze blew through my hair. Paradise much? I think so.
So far Greece is amazing. I love Patmos. It's super chill here which is so different from Turkey. It might also be because this island that we're on is slightly larger than a rock.
Roommate time!! I'm rooming with Jessica and Jessica. One of them is the one I roomed with in Istanbul. It's funny cause they're both from Las Vegas too! There are quite a few of us from Nevada actually. The two Jessicas from Vegas, me and Todd. He's from Sparks actually. Kinda funny cause I sat next to him on for 16 hours on the plane on the way here and he knows a lot about Elko. He went to Reed and played basketball. He asked me if I knew the Klekas's and if any of the boys still played basketball. I told him there were still more to come. Another girl on this program is related to President Bohler from the East Stake and she comes to their ranch frequently. I asked her if she knew Josh but she didn't remember him. It's crazy how small this world is though. Anywho...Jessica the other roommate I haven't talked about: she knows a lot about Elko too cause I guess her dad owns an insurance company there. Leavitt insurance company? I've never heard of it but she's great too. I really doubt I'll have anything negative to write about anyone here. Everyone is so great. I can go up to anyone and feel comfortable hanging out with them. It's so nice not to be cliquey but I've never really seen it before. I recommend going on study abroad with random people. It's such a good experience.
We just got back from this Greek restaurant and they were SUPER good. I had a pita gyro. It was freaking delicious. They give you bread before your food and my food was way good. The only really Turkish food I had was a doner. It's lamb, fries and veggies. It was aight but it had next to no flavor. My gyro had lots of sauce and delicious pita. So good. And I swear I've eaten watermelon with every meal I've had since I've been here. It never gets old. They gave us some of that too. I went with 6 other people and it was only 30 euro. That's way cheap.
It was great. I just keep telling myself it's only going to get better too. Every time we get somewhere new or go to a new hotel I'm all "Is this real life?" and it totes is. I swear this is all a dream but I really enjoy this dream.
Adio! (bye)
:)
On the way here some of the girls and myself talked to sister Money, our director's wife. She's incredible. She's a marriage counselor but more importantly she was proposed to 13 times before brother money!! You cannot tell me that's not a world record. We were asking her how she chose him out of the 13 previous bachelors and she talked to us for a while about stuff. She's an amazing woman and so wise. She really opened my eyes and made me realize what I need and what I'm looking for. You find someone who is everything you're not so you can better yourself. Some one who MAKES you a better person. Not someone who you WANT to be better for. Life is about becoming your best and finding people who help you on your quest while taking time to help others on their own journey.
Thats really deep but it's just a taste of the things I've learned on this trip. When you go out on your own, half a world away from everyone and everything you knew, you learn a lot about yourself. I wish everyone had this opportunity and I'm so grateful for it.
It's incredible how everyone on this trip can fall asleep in like 5 minutes. Let us sit down and we're out in 5. There are going to be so many pictures from the directors of us all sleeping. I took a nap on a super comfy bench on the side of the boat as the sun shone and the breeze blew through my hair. Paradise much? I think so.
So far Greece is amazing. I love Patmos. It's super chill here which is so different from Turkey. It might also be because this island that we're on is slightly larger than a rock.
Roommate time!! I'm rooming with Jessica and Jessica. One of them is the one I roomed with in Istanbul. It's funny cause they're both from Las Vegas too! There are quite a few of us from Nevada actually. The two Jessicas from Vegas, me and Todd. He's from Sparks actually. Kinda funny cause I sat next to him on for 16 hours on the plane on the way here and he knows a lot about Elko. He went to Reed and played basketball. He asked me if I knew the Klekas's and if any of the boys still played basketball. I told him there were still more to come. Another girl on this program is related to President Bohler from the East Stake and she comes to their ranch frequently. I asked her if she knew Josh but she didn't remember him. It's crazy how small this world is though. Anywho...Jessica the other roommate I haven't talked about: she knows a lot about Elko too cause I guess her dad owns an insurance company there. Leavitt insurance company? I've never heard of it but she's great too. I really doubt I'll have anything negative to write about anyone here. Everyone is so great. I can go up to anyone and feel comfortable hanging out with them. It's so nice not to be cliquey but I've never really seen it before. I recommend going on study abroad with random people. It's such a good experience.
We just got back from this Greek restaurant and they were SUPER good. I had a pita gyro. It was freaking delicious. They give you bread before your food and my food was way good. The only really Turkish food I had was a doner. It's lamb, fries and veggies. It was aight but it had next to no flavor. My gyro had lots of sauce and delicious pita. So good. And I swear I've eaten watermelon with every meal I've had since I've been here. It never gets old. They gave us some of that too. I went with 6 other people and it was only 30 euro. That's way cheap.
It was great. I just keep telling myself it's only going to get better too. Every time we get somewhere new or go to a new hotel I'm all "Is this real life?" and it totes is. I swear this is all a dream but I really enjoy this dream.
Adio! (bye)
:)
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Kusadasi, Turkey
I forgot one of the best parts of yesterday!! We went to this leather fashion show. I expected it to be similar to the carpet show but this was so much more legit. It had real models and American music to walk to. It was a private show and they chose people from the audience to model too. My roommate from the other night, Jessica, wad one of them and Ryan, my chicken partner was the other one. It was hilarious. I was crying from laughter.
Something else I've been meaning to say...Brother Money, our director, has a son that just got back from his mission last Friday and his name is McKay. He is the funniest thing I've ever met. He is so Fresh!! He still calls everyone brother and sister. He goes up to every new tour guide we have, asks their name and their religion then proceeds to the first discussion. It's the funniest and most awkward thing to watch. He cannot carry on a normal conversation. I love it.
Speaking of normal conversation...gas is $8.00 a gallon!!! I saw the price at first and it said 3.65. I was all "Wow" but then I realized it was in lira(which is less than the dollar) and it was in liters. So it ended up being $8.00 a gallon. Insane huh?
This morning we started out by touring Ephesus. It was way cool. I was expecting it to just be like one little stadium thing but it was like a whole city! It took us a good 2 hours to get through it all but it was sweet. And super hot. It's so humid here. After Ephesus we went to the national park. It's kinda like lamoille-all campy and treeful but it goes from like south American rain forest (minus the rain) to the most beautiful clear blue ocean you'll ever see. Seriously the water was SO clear. Even better than Hawaii. You could see all the way down when you were in the middle of the ocean. It's beautiful. We ate watermelon, tanned and swam for like 2 hours then we came back to our hotel and went shopping. I got a turquoise ring that's beautiful. Turquoise is a speciality in Turkey. Turquoise literally translated means "Turkish blue". Everywhere had turquoise. Love it. We've been chilling an talking since.
My roommate tonight and for last night as well has been Yulee. She's the sweetest girl. She's genuinely nice and caring to every person. I like her lots. She's beautiful too. But yet again, a new roommate tomorrow night.
I'm the baby on this trip but everyone is so nice. I've totes made some new friends. And I bet they'll become even better as I spend 24/7 with them the next 3 weeks. I can't believe its already been a week. It'll be gone before I know it!!
It's my last night in Turkey! Tomorrow it's off to Patmos! I won't have service while I'm there and Monday we boat off to Santorini!! so I probs won't blog for a while but I'll post when I get the chance. I can't wait for Tuesday!! A free day in Santorini will be heaven. Love you all. Hope all is well. Peace and blessin's.
Something else I've been meaning to say...Brother Money, our director, has a son that just got back from his mission last Friday and his name is McKay. He is the funniest thing I've ever met. He is so Fresh!! He still calls everyone brother and sister. He goes up to every new tour guide we have, asks their name and their religion then proceeds to the first discussion. It's the funniest and most awkward thing to watch. He cannot carry on a normal conversation. I love it.
Speaking of normal conversation...gas is $8.00 a gallon!!! I saw the price at first and it said 3.65. I was all "Wow" but then I realized it was in lira(which is less than the dollar) and it was in liters. So it ended up being $8.00 a gallon. Insane huh?
This morning we started out by touring Ephesus. It was way cool. I was expecting it to just be like one little stadium thing but it was like a whole city! It took us a good 2 hours to get through it all but it was sweet. And super hot. It's so humid here. After Ephesus we went to the national park. It's kinda like lamoille-all campy and treeful but it goes from like south American rain forest (minus the rain) to the most beautiful clear blue ocean you'll ever see. Seriously the water was SO clear. Even better than Hawaii. You could see all the way down when you were in the middle of the ocean. It's beautiful. We ate watermelon, tanned and swam for like 2 hours then we came back to our hotel and went shopping. I got a turquoise ring that's beautiful. Turquoise is a speciality in Turkey. Turquoise literally translated means "Turkish blue". Everywhere had turquoise. Love it. We've been chilling an talking since.
My roommate tonight and for last night as well has been Yulee. She's the sweetest girl. She's genuinely nice and caring to every person. I like her lots. She's beautiful too. But yet again, a new roommate tomorrow night.
I'm the baby on this trip but everyone is so nice. I've totes made some new friends. And I bet they'll become even better as I spend 24/7 with them the next 3 weeks. I can't believe its already been a week. It'll be gone before I know it!!
It's my last night in Turkey! Tomorrow it's off to Patmos! I won't have service while I'm there and Monday we boat off to Santorini!! so I probs won't blog for a while but I'll post when I get the chance. I can't wait for Tuesday!! A free day in Santorini will be heaven. Love you all. Hope all is well. Peace and blessin's.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Izmir and Kusadasi, Turkey
Today has been the best day by far. We woke up at 4 in the morning and it's like 7 now but I feel great!
I'm in Asia!! We flew into Izmir and we toured. We started out with saint John's crib. I don't really know what else to call it cause it's awesome. Then we went to the home of Mary, the mother of Jesus. That was such a cool experience. It's a secluded place high on some mountain and they make you be quiet when you enter her house. I'm not sure if that's really the house of Mary but I definitely felt the spirit in there. It was awesome. As you walked in you could grab a candle and then light it when you got out in memory of someone you loved. So she could watch over them. Then you could wash your hands in the holy water and take some if you wanted. It's some of the only drinkable water in turkey. Then lastly, there is a giant wall completely covered in handkerchiefs and other random scraps. People are supposed to take something of theirs, make a wish and then tie it to this wall and Mary will make it come true.
So that was way awesome. We ended with the temple of Artemis. One of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It was pretty cool but earthquakes have completely destroyed it. :(
Then we moved in to Kusadasi.
It is BEAUTIFUL here. I like it better than Istanbul. It's a lot smaller. More of my style. And it's gorgeous! I'll try to attach a picture of where I'm sitting right now typing this. I'm in paradise. We have a way nice hotel and a room that overlooks the ocean. I want to live here.
We came back and went to the beach where my partner, Ryan, and I became chicken champs. Whoo! I love to win. Then we decided to go back to he hotel pool and ended up with a big group of us playing "volleyball" with these little Turkish girls named "Touche" and "Illyada". They were adorable. The Turks are such nice people. Very welcoming. We ended the day with some tanning on the top floor and now I'm here, on my balcony typing away watching the sunset over the ocean in 80 degree weather. Yeah...don't worry about me. I'm doin' fine. :)
Love you all. I'll send pictures hopefully so you can all live vicariously through me.
LOL. Lots Of Love :)
I'm in Asia!! We flew into Izmir and we toured. We started out with saint John's crib. I don't really know what else to call it cause it's awesome. Then we went to the home of Mary, the mother of Jesus. That was such a cool experience. It's a secluded place high on some mountain and they make you be quiet when you enter her house. I'm not sure if that's really the house of Mary but I definitely felt the spirit in there. It was awesome. As you walked in you could grab a candle and then light it when you got out in memory of someone you loved. So she could watch over them. Then you could wash your hands in the holy water and take some if you wanted. It's some of the only drinkable water in turkey. Then lastly, there is a giant wall completely covered in handkerchiefs and other random scraps. People are supposed to take something of theirs, make a wish and then tie it to this wall and Mary will make it come true.
So that was way awesome. We ended with the temple of Artemis. One of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It was pretty cool but earthquakes have completely destroyed it. :(
Then we moved in to Kusadasi.
It is BEAUTIFUL here. I like it better than Istanbul. It's a lot smaller. More of my style. And it's gorgeous! I'll try to attach a picture of where I'm sitting right now typing this. I'm in paradise. We have a way nice hotel and a room that overlooks the ocean. I want to live here.
We came back and went to the beach where my partner, Ryan, and I became chicken champs. Whoo! I love to win. Then we decided to go back to he hotel pool and ended up with a big group of us playing "volleyball" with these little Turkish girls named "Touche" and "Illyada". They were adorable. The Turks are such nice people. Very welcoming. We ended the day with some tanning on the top floor and now I'm here, on my balcony typing away watching the sunset over the ocean in 80 degree weather. Yeah...don't worry about me. I'm doin' fine. :)
Love you all. I'll send pictures hopefully so you can all live vicariously through me.
LOL. Lots Of Love :)
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Take 3: Istanbul, Turkey
Ok let me just say that people in turkey drive like crazy people. They all drive like they have to get their dying grandmother to the hospital. Seriously. They just drive up and honk at you. No wait at all. you either move or get honked at again and a little nudge to get you out of the way. I'm sick if being honked at. I'm a human being!!!
Besides the suicidal driving, I love Istanbul. I'm just getting used to it all and we're leaving tomorrow :( I feel like I'll be experiencing a lot of heart break in the next month.
My roommate's name is Jessica. She's 22 and from las Vegas. She's an accounting major and I really like her. She's super sweet. There are actually 2 girls from Vegas named Jessica and one from Summerland (Kim)! I'll get a new roommate tomorrow night when we are in Kusadasi.
Today was exhausting. We started out at some mosque. I think the blue one? Haha. We had to be all covered up though. And it was way hot so I was sweating to death but whatere it was a good experience. P.s. These pictures are going to look very rough.
Then we walked to this underground aqueduct which was cool. Literally thank goodness. I don't know how many watch the bachellorette but when Aly was it, her and frank went on a date there. It was so beautiful. Then we went to another palace on the Mediterranean that had an 86 karat diamond. Oh by the way, that's what I want for my ring. No big deal.
We went to this museum next that was some artifact museum or something. Idk. By that point I wanted a couch and air conditioning. Finally we ended with this rug shop which was totally cool. Turkey is known for its rugs and we got to see first hand how they're made. It takes typically 2 years for a weaver to make one rug. Crazy but beautiful. They also helped us celebrate one of the girls birthdays in our group, Sandra. We got cake and apple tea. The apple tea is super good!
Speaking of super good, breakfast here is the best. So strange though. We have like cheese and meat, Greek yogurt(which I've fallen in love with), Turkish cereal(like co co puffs and frosted flakes), fruit, eggs, honeycomb, and TONS of bread. It's so good. And filling!
Then I went to the grand bazaar. It's insane. There are over 4,300 stores in there and twice as many people. It's overwhelming but totally awesome.
Did you know that turkey is the number 2 tourist area for Americans? Behind Paris. I'm not sure if I believe that though. I have yet to see more than a handful of americans. Apparently we missed the American hideout spot.
I'm gunna go swim and soak up the mediterranean sun! Love y'all!
Besides the suicidal driving, I love Istanbul. I'm just getting used to it all and we're leaving tomorrow :( I feel like I'll be experiencing a lot of heart break in the next month.
My roommate's name is Jessica. She's 22 and from las Vegas. She's an accounting major and I really like her. She's super sweet. There are actually 2 girls from Vegas named Jessica and one from Summerland (Kim)! I'll get a new roommate tomorrow night when we are in Kusadasi.
Today was exhausting. We started out at some mosque. I think the blue one? Haha. We had to be all covered up though. And it was way hot so I was sweating to death but whatere it was a good experience. P.s. These pictures are going to look very rough.
Then we walked to this underground aqueduct which was cool. Literally thank goodness. I don't know how many watch the bachellorette but when Aly was it, her and frank went on a date there. It was so beautiful. Then we went to another palace on the Mediterranean that had an 86 karat diamond. Oh by the way, that's what I want for my ring. No big deal.
We went to this museum next that was some artifact museum or something. Idk. By that point I wanted a couch and air conditioning. Finally we ended with this rug shop which was totally cool. Turkey is known for its rugs and we got to see first hand how they're made. It takes typically 2 years for a weaver to make one rug. Crazy but beautiful. They also helped us celebrate one of the girls birthdays in our group, Sandra. We got cake and apple tea. The apple tea is super good!
Speaking of super good, breakfast here is the best. So strange though. We have like cheese and meat, Greek yogurt(which I've fallen in love with), Turkish cereal(like co co puffs and frosted flakes), fruit, eggs, honeycomb, and TONS of bread. It's so good. And filling!
Then I went to the grand bazaar. It's insane. There are over 4,300 stores in there and twice as many people. It's overwhelming but totally awesome.
Did you know that turkey is the number 2 tourist area for Americans? Behind Paris. I'm not sure if I believe that though. I have yet to see more than a handful of americans. Apparently we missed the American hideout spot.
I'm gunna go swim and soak up the mediterranean sun! Love y'all!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Take 2: Istanbul, Turkey
Now that I'm in Istanbul, everything in my phone is in Turkish so it's difficult to figure out what I'm doing. Haha.
Today was...interesting. We had 4 business visits. We started with Nike which was probably my favorite and went hand in hand with the international marketing stuff we learned last week. I feel so educated! Then we went to Deloitte, Intel and ended with the U.S. Embassy in Turkey. By the last visit, I was definitely struggling to stay awake. Especially after my jet lag had me bright eyed and bushy tailed at 4:00 this morning.
After the business visits we went on this ferry ride on the Boshlevek river. I think that's the name anyway. It was so pretty though. You can see Europe and Asia on either side of you. It was awesome. Turkey is so unique. It was interesting to see it from the water.
Then we came back and had some food. It's funny to order here because they make fun of you. It's kinda sad but I'm over it. I laugh it off. The food is really bland. We decided it's because we're from America where everything is lathered in ketchup. It's a strange change. But then we went to the beach and took pictures. They're so great. We went back and watched the sun set from our pool on top of our hotel that overlooks the city and ended the night with an episode of the Bachelorette.
Keepin' it classy!
Today was...interesting. We had 4 business visits. We started with Nike which was probably my favorite and went hand in hand with the international marketing stuff we learned last week. I feel so educated! Then we went to Deloitte, Intel and ended with the U.S. Embassy in Turkey. By the last visit, I was definitely struggling to stay awake. Especially after my jet lag had me bright eyed and bushy tailed at 4:00 this morning.
After the business visits we went on this ferry ride on the Boshlevek river. I think that's the name anyway. It was so pretty though. You can see Europe and Asia on either side of you. It was awesome. Turkey is so unique. It was interesting to see it from the water.
Then we came back and had some food. It's funny to order here because they make fun of you. It's kinda sad but I'm over it. I laugh it off. The food is really bland. We decided it's because we're from America where everything is lathered in ketchup. It's a strange change. But then we went to the beach and took pictures. They're so great. We went back and watched the sun set from our pool on top of our hotel that overlooks the city and ended the night with an episode of the Bachelorette.
Keepin' it classy!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Istanbul, Turkey
Merhaba!! (hello)
I am so freaking tired. But I committed to this blog an I can't quit the first day. I woke up at 4:00 Monday morning Provo time and have been awake since then. It's now tuesday and 9:30 in Istanbul. Needless to say, I'm one tired girl. But Istanbul is beautiful. Today we went to the Hagia Sophia and the blue mosque. It was really pretty. It's incredible that some of the buildings here are still standing and tourable after all this time. This city is unlike anything else I've ever seen. Ancient on one side and modern not too far away. I also went to the Grand Bazaar. It was nuts. There are people on every side of you throwing scarves on your body and spraying you with perfume, telling you how you would make a beautiful wife for their son. These guys don't take "no" for an answer. I just play dumb like I don't know English. Throw out a "no habla englais" every once in a while. No wonder these people think Americans are stupid.
I am so freaking tired. But I committed to this blog an I can't quit the first day. I woke up at 4:00 Monday morning Provo time and have been awake since then. It's now tuesday and 9:30 in Istanbul. Needless to say, I'm one tired girl. But Istanbul is beautiful. Today we went to the Hagia Sophia and the blue mosque. It was really pretty. It's incredible that some of the buildings here are still standing and tourable after all this time. This city is unlike anything else I've ever seen. Ancient on one side and modern not too far away. I also went to the Grand Bazaar. It was nuts. There are people on every side of you throwing scarves on your body and spraying you with perfume, telling you how you would make a beautiful wife for their son. These guys don't take "no" for an answer. I just play dumb like I don't know English. Throw out a "no habla englais" every once in a while. No wonder these people think Americans are stupid.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Airport: Salt Lake City, UT
Ah!! I can't believe it's finally here!! I'm shaking a little but it's definitely good :) I don't have a lot of time to write but thank you to my great friends who let me abuse our friendship this week. I love and will miss you all!!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Chelsea's Apartment-Provo, UT
I know that I haven't even left yet and I'm already starting a blog but I'm so excited to go!! I can't wait. I think I'm most excited for Santorini. It's BEAUTIFUL there. All of the pictures make me want to die a little. I hope this isn't an epic fail and that I actually have time to blog. If not, I'll fill everyone in when I get home. Anyways, I hope you will all follow my blog and enjoy the Mediterranean with me!
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