GL 350, Week 7!

Aside from the murderous, obsessive behaviors of Tom Ripley, I believe we have a few things in common and f course our differences.When I began reading The Talented Mr. Ripley, I thought for sure it would be boring with too many adjectives explain the sences and characteristics of places like Rome and Venice. Although I could list ten pages of words describing the places I have visited I did not care to actually read every word. I was seriously surprised when the book had an interesting story line and captured every essence of famous cities in Europe exactly how I would explain them.

In the last 8 weeks, I have experienced more things than I have in my entire life. Although the trip had a few negative aspects, I do not regret a single moment of it. It has also taught me more about myself than I would have ever guessed. I believe the experience has brought me closer to my Mom and has made me truly appreciate the life her and my Dad have worked so hard to give me. Don't get me wrong, I have always been grateful for what I have and know how lucky I am to be blessed with such a great life. In the book, Tom only had an abusive Aunt to go home too. Of course, spending the rest of his life exploring Europe was a great idea. If I had no one to return too and a bank account full of money (preferably I would not have killed someone to obtain said money) I would never want to return to my past life either! Europe, especially Italy, is fascinating and never stops surprising you.

Aside from becoming closer with my family,  I also think this trip has made me more American. I of course have always been proud to say I am American but now, I have an overwhelming sense of pride. Italy certainly has flaws that I could never become accustomed too. After using public restrooms in Italy, I will never complain of a few paper towels on the bathroom floor again! As silly as that seems, it is the truth. My boyfriend is a police officer, firefighter, and EMT. I will always believe that people in this field of work should be paid more money than they make but, it makes me extremely proud to think that men and women all over our country work and volunteer for these difficult professions and our system is 100% more effective than that of European countries!

During my trip abroad, the views of Rome, Venice, Paris, etc. have taken my breath away. When walking out of the metro and seeing the Colosseum for the first time, I was literally speechless. I suppose it is views like this that also captured Mr. Ripley's interest. America, has beautiful scenery and landscapes but there is something about seeing ruins of old cities that leaves you awe struck. How could our ancestors that only had a fraction of the tools we have today build such structures that are still standing today! The history buried in the roots of Europe are incomparable.

As I finish up my last week here, I am anxious to get home to my family, the love of my life, and my quite farm life. I certainly will not miss the hustle and bustle of Rome or the itchy sheets on campus. I am however, sad to be leaving this country. Although, I could never live here there is something about Italy that keeps me drawn to it. When I watch movies based here I get chills thinking of the memories I have made and the places I have gone. Maybe my coin toss in the Trevi Fountain this week will bring me back to this amazing country and view the rest of the places Tom Ripley  explored and loved. Well, I guess there isn't much else to say so as the Italians would say,  Arrivederchi.