Feels Like Home to Me

My class this morning was canceled. Believe me, I am not complaining, but it has left me with quite a bit of time on my hands that just wasn't expected. So, what do I do when I have too much time (besides putz around the kitchen and play on the internet)? I of course get to thinking - because that is just how things seem to work.

I was thinking about how much this place has become home in a strange and somewhat surreal way. No, it isn't Cincinnati, Cleveland, Chicago, or DC, or even Jerusalem - but it is a place that has somehow grown on me. I still don't fully understand the culture and I am still frequently baffled at the way things are done here in Rome and in Italy - but I like it. Sure, some days I would kill for a hamburger or even some food besides pasta - but I know as soon as I leave I am going to be craving the Italian cooking that just isn't the same back on the other side of the pond.

The other night on my way back from Florence I made the mistake of taking the local train. So, a train ride that was only supposed to be about 2 hours turned into a 3 and a half hour ordeal. The later and later it became the more antsy I became to return "home." I just wanted to climb up the stairs of Gianicolense 309 and turn that skeleton key to get inside the apartment so I could go jump into my too-low-to-the-ground Ikea bed.

Next Thursday, the semester will be half-way over (I am trying not to think about it). But, my time here is limited. My job here is to go to class, do my homework, explore, and travel. I can't forget that and spend time online or sleeping when I could be out seeing a part of the city, country, or continent that I haven't had the chance to see yet. Every day I still have to pinch myself and remind myself that I really am here - and making the most of it is the only way to live la dolce vita - the sweet life.