Orientation

So... Sucks to say, but orientation is rough! This is like highschool all over again, getting to know people, pretending to like people until you find a stable group, haha. Its been really gray and rainy here but we had a moment of sunshine this morning. I can't wait till it gets nicer out because in the rain this city feel so small and so very dirty. The air is really polluted, but there are areas here that have some cool buildings. I saw the duomo and this cool cathedral called santa croce. They are so grand and stunning. Otherwise, I've been going to bed early and hiding out.

My host family comes to pick me up today! Their names are Alberto and Laura Grazzini and thank god they have a dog. I am so relieved! All my stress about meeting a family is gone because I can just chill with the pooch if things get rough, but I highly doubt they will because the family description says they are young, fun and accommodating. Also I got my classes: Intermediate painting, photo 1, jewelry making, masterpieces in art (art history) and beginning Italian. My schedule worked out so that I have class from 8:45 am until 7 pm monday and wednesday. YIKES!!! But at least the home I'm staying in will be five minutes from school. I hope when i get to explore this city more it grows on me, but right now Im super anxious about going places alone even during the day, they really drill it into you when they say "dont talk to italian men". Oh well, hopefully I can start making some close friends soon.

Also I have a cell phone now which will be activated tomorrow. So call me! its free for me! haha. the number is 320-157-7666. and i can also receive texts! YAY for technology. boo for my laptop being broken right now so...no skype until I can figure that one out. Im a big kid, ill make it happen somehow. I miss everyone but its been so whirlwind I feel like.. "what time is it? what day is it? where am i?" Four months...its a long time...I keep thinking...four months. I hope I get used to this soon. And if you want to send me letters, (anything much bigger and I may get charged a high tax) send them to

Emily Joan Schonberg
c/o Syracuse University in Florence
Piazza Savonarola, 15
50132 Firenze
Italia

To my family and friends, I love you. To my love, I just love you so! Good luck getting ready. Soon we'll all be in the same strange boat. Welcome to the foreign.

P.S. Thank you for the purse and wallet mom...so helpful :-)