Adjustments

Friends & Family,

Hope you all are doing well. I heard it is starting to feel like Fall in Indiana - that happened fast! It has cooled off considerably here in Florence since I first arrived. Still, in the afternoon, it is pretty stifling to be in the apartment with no AC. Our windows are open a lot - but that takes away privacy because our courtyard is shared with 4 boys who always have their windows open.

I titled this post "Adjustments" because as you can imagine, moving to a new country is full of them.  We were given a chart of the "typical culture shock cycle" and so far, I seem to be beating the odds by not slipping into a deep depression after the "enchantment" stage is over.    

(You should see this chart - it shows a big dip upwards when you first arrive in a new country - and then a quick drop that looks like it extends forever.....  not too comforting!)

I can safely say that I am still in the enchanted state of mind (and I never want to get out of it!)

but I have also been able to keep homesickness at bay by staying busy. Of course it has slipped in a few times {1. seeing dogs (miss Jackson) 2. visiting places my parents loved (miss Mom & Dad & family) 3. and there are pretty much couples in love all over the place, so I am missing Dave too!}  Ok, ok, enough with that mushy stuff! And, I 'm sure I'll get plenty of grief for the fact that Jackson was listed first in that list.... he is just too darn cute!

But, ultimately - I just walk around these curvy, sun-drenched, bustling streets and I am so grateful. Grateful for the chance to visit this place, be surrounded by passionate Italian people, take classes at an international university, and share it all with one of my most cherished friends (Tricia, that's you!).   I have learned so much already, and I've only been here for a little over a week.

God has blessed me with so much peace, gratitude, and a fervent curiosity to explore every inch of this astoundingly beautiful country.   He has sustained me when I am scared, and He has comforted me when I feel too far from home.  He has fulfilled each and every promise and answered every prayer.  I am praising my faithful Father God. 

Wishing you all so many blessings!

Arrivederci!

Kate