Ciao a tutti!

Welcome to my humble blog. Whether you're a friend, family member, or just randomly scrolling through on a dull Friday night, I appreciate you taking the time to read my carefully selected words and lovingly crafted sentences.

Let me tell you a bit about myself and what you can expect from my blog.

In May 2013, I graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Liberal Arts degree in history and art history. Armed with a piece of paper stating I was competent enough to read the classics, whip out a few papers, and see the world through the lens of historical perspective, I entered the real world. Three months later, I moved to Milan, Italy to experience in person the paintings, architecture, and sculptures I had fallen in love with over the past four years of university.

Through my blog, I invite you to travel Italy with me. Gasp in awe of Brunelleschi's duomo  in Florence, float down a canal in Venice, and take in the beauty that is the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican (just remember to dress modestly while reading that post) - all while learning interesting little historical tidbits, proving that I did learn something in class after all. Of course, it wouldn't be Italy without pasta and wine; you will share every glass of vino and every bite of gnocchi.

Aside from the beauty and history that Italy has to offer, I'll also put forth my commentary on what it is like to live as an American expatriate in a foreign country, both the good and the bad. My successes and failures with everything from getting around the city and communicating with locals to dealing with homesickness and long-term travel will be documented... with a touch of sarcasm and self-deprecating humor, of course.

You might be my parents back home making sure I'm safe, a college student getting ready to study abroad, a first time visitor to Italy, or a seasoned traveller looking for another perspective. Regardless, I hope you find my blog interesting, informative, and a little funny. Happy reading!