The Preparation Begins

Oh yes, the preparation has officially begun. Up until today I have been lying around the house and taking care of my little brothers, 4 and 2. Today I went to the library and picked up a beginning Italian disc and book set so I can have some at least a simple understanding of the language when I arrive. After lunch with my mother and the boys I went to Wal-mart and Books-A-Million. I stocked up on essentials such as shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste and soap so I won't have to worry about them in Italy. At Books-A-Million I purchased two Italian dictionaries, an Italian travel book and a Europen travel book. It was expensive and I hope I get my use out of them! Now I am about to start listening to my Italian cds and later tonight I will help my sister pack up for Syracuse. She is the one in the middle, I am on the left and Rachel, 15 is on the left. With three little sister, I live Little Women.

Courtney asked me for advice about college the other night. She asked me how you make new friends, fit in and such. I told her that you simply have to be yourself and hope for the best. Then you will gravitate toward the things and people that represent who you are. I tried to grasp and ponder my own words. Soon I will be in the same position as my sister, except I will be in a foreign country. It is intimidating. I have been preparing for Italy for months. I discussed it with my peers at Baylor and in D.C. I sent in the different applications and held my breath as I sent in my materials for my student visa. I actually didn't get my student visa until a few days ago. I was freaking out. I am glad everything is in order, but at the same time I can't believe it is actually time to go because of how much I have talked about it as a distant occurence. I, Alyssa, am going to Italy! I think I had better go study my Italian cds. I hope it's true that you only need to bring 2 weeks worth of clothes to Italy. I'm taking things one step at a time, and packing will probably be near the end. At least I'll have more room for my books!