Back in the Swing of Things

I recently realized that it was a bit of a challenge getting used to the Italian lifestyle after being back in the States for two weeks. It's remarkably simple to get used to microwaves, dishwashers, clothes dryers, driving a car, and English television on big screen TVs! It took awhile, but I think I'm finally feeling like an Italian again.

Niraj, on the other hand, didn't have a choice but to get back into full swing right away. This week is his last week of classes and then finals begin (queue some dooms-day music). He has been studying non-stop, and I think he feels like there just aren't enough hours in the day. Ah, the joys of grad school! Anyway, we have a nice 8 day, end-of-term trip to Andalucia (Southern Spain) right after his last final so there is a light at the end of the tunnel... I also just had an exam, part of which consisted of talking for 10 minutes to my Italian instructor about "Mangiare in Italia (Eating in Italy)." I guess if you can do that then can claim your Italian is somewhat decent!

Some more news about Niraj is that he has officially been offered a summer internship with the State Department! He's still applying to other places to see what else is out there, but we were both very excited about the offer and the chance for him to start work in D.C.

On another note, I also wanted to put a link to pictures from our most recent day trip to Siena. So, check 'em out! Siena is a gorgeous town in Tuscany and is exactly what you think of when you envision being under the Tuscan sun. And we even did have sun for part of the day! It was full of tourists, but some of the sights were quite spectacular. It's up in the hills which means you get a nice little workout too while walking across town. They also have the most beautiful Duomo there! You can see in the pictures that the white and gray facade on top of the steps is really gorgeous; however, Niraj said the black-and-white stripped columns inside were reminiscent of Alice In Wonderland. I, on the other hand, thought they were stunning! The most spectacular thing about this cathedral, though, was the floors. Inside the marble floors were covered with pictures and depictions of various saints and Biblical stories. Some of it is even so sacred that they cover up it year round revealing it on only on the high holidays. We also had a fantastic meal at a little tucked away Trattoria (it is Italy after all so you must discuss food!). Niraj had the most amazing yellow squash soup, which apparently is a Tuscan delicacy. That soup alone would probably be worth a trip back! All in all, it was another great day trip.

So, that's about it from our side of the world. We'll be back soon with results from final exams and updates on some BIG TRIPS that we have on the horizon!!

Ciao ragazzi!