#WhenInRome: Reunited

It’s very strange to hang out with people out of context.  So spontaneously spending the day with one of my best friends in a city halfway around the world was crazy but extremely refreshing.  Bryn trained down from Florence to Rome, and we explored the Spanish steps, Piazza del Popolo, St. Peter’s Basilica (and Cupola!), the Piazza Navona, and the church of St. Ignatius together.  Highlights and reflections of the day…

1)  A man tried to sell us roses at the foot of the Spanish steps.  We kept telling him we didn’t want them, but he insisted saying we were so beautiful we just had to have flowers!  When he finally realized we weren’t going to give him anything, he snatched the roses from our hands and stalked off without another word.  Bryn and I instantly burst into laughter.  This man thought he was telling us what we wanted to hear…Sir, if you want to get my attention, put gelato in my hand, not roses!

2)  St. Peter’s Basilica was more stunning than I remembered.  The gold engraved roof is beautiful.  The first thought that popped into my head as we walked inside?  “If this is so incredible, and it’s man-made, I cannot wait to see heaven.”  Wow.  Talk about breath-taking.

3)  We climbed to the top of St. Peter’s!  About 550 steps in the sweltering heat through a slanted dome part of the way but totally worth it:  the view from the top was incredible.  We got a 360 degree panorama of the entire city – I could even see my neighborhood from up there!  If you ever get the chance to climb the Cupola, please do it.  It’s an unimaginably beautiful view worth every slippery step and bead of sweat.

4)  I took Bryn to St. Ignatius’ Church.  I’m obsessed with this place and its wild perspective.  There is no way that some of the paintings on the roof are not 3D statues or carvings or something.  It’s outrageous. We spent nigh on five minutes just standing with dropped jaws, gazing at the masterful artistry on the ceiling.

5)  We saw three street performers in Piazza Navona.  They were incredible!  They were bouncing around on their hands while in handstands, one guy spun around on his head, gah!  It was wild.  Can you imagine the life of a street performer?  I want to know how much money they make every day.  It would be so difficult to rely on others’ generosity in order to make a living.  Which brings me to my last thought from this day:  there are so many beggars on the streets of Rome.  It breaks my heart, but I can’t give money to all of them.  I lived such a sheltered existence in Los Alamos, and I don’t trust some of the homeless people in Albuquerque.  But these people are crippled or mothers with children, begging while it’s ridiculously hot, and they’re legitimately helpless.  I feel so bad!  Bryn told me she prays for each of them as she walks by, and I like this idea.  I may not be able to take care of them, but I need to trust that God will.

View from the top of St. Peter's!

In front of Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain in Piazza Navona

I am so thankful Bryn came to Rome for a quick day trip.  Friends have an amazing capacity to produce an entirely new mindset.  I no longer feel too homesick or panicky about living overseas, and I’m ready to continue this incredible adventure! 

#WhenInRome: Beginning

Several reflections on my first real day living in Rome...

*Seriously, gelato is the best, most refreshing thing on a sweltering hot day.  Mix strawberry gelato with cream gelato if you ever get the chance.  To quote Scar, "It's to dieeee for!"

*My favorite thing about Rome (so far) is that oftentimes I stumble out of some random side street only to be faced with an ancient and super famous landmark.  Like the Pantheon, for example.  Just strolling along down a little alleyway, and then...WHAM. Hello M.Agrippa! Magnificent.

*I wish water continuously poured out of street fountains in Albuquerque...

*I hung my clothes out on our clothes' line.  There are no dryers in our apartments. Or basically anywhere in Rome.  I think this is valid.  Actually, I think it's extremely practical, and I think the U.S. should take notes.  Only people in Seattle and Oregon are allowed to have dryers. That's my contribution to the energy crisis.

*I want to ride on a Vespa.  Even if this seriously endangers my life, I feel strongly that it is an experience I need to have.  I don't want to drive one because that would give me a heart attack, but I would have no qualms about being driven around by an attractive, not sketchy, young Italian man ;)  As long as I have a helmet.

*I went inside Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola a Campo Marzio today.  It's a church dedicated to St. Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuit order.  It's beautiful. The inside is incredible, and the "dome" over the altar isn't actually a dome at all. It's painted in such a way that from the vantage point at the entrance of the church, the roof looks like it arches up! And as you move around and toward the front of the sanctuary, the dome flattens out, and the apex moves around the circle.  It's wild and really cool.

My program eats a true Italian meal tonight aka four courses of heaven.  Good thing my shorts are kind of big... ;)  Pace e benedizioni a tutti voi!  (I used Google translate for this, so if it's wrong, please help me!!)

Europe

Previously, I wrote about all of the craziness of my trip.  Now let me tell you some of the amazing things I’ve seen and done while being across the pond…

Rome, as always, is incredible.  The history, the architecture, the FOOD.  The Italian language is beautiful; I love the lilt and flow, the animation, the intonation.  I’m eager to begin my residence here!

Spain.  I don’t even know where to begin.  I LOVE SPAIN.  That’s a good start.  There is an intangible and indescribable feeling prevalent there that exudes relaxation, joy, and life.  That’s it.  Spain is alive.  The people don’t want the day to end, so it doesn’t.  Simple as that.  Valencia is a magnificent place.  One day we spent the whole afternoon lounging on the beach, took a boat ride to watch the sunset, then sat on a rooftop terrace until three in the morning listening to the raging block party in the street and watching fireworks over the city.  WHATT?? Is this really my life??

Gaudi has to be the most incredible architect in the history of the world.  His Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is otherworldly.  I got goose bumps from looking at this building – twice!  I didn’t even know that was possible.  Every single detail holds some significance to the story of Christ.  For example, the pillar spiraling up to hold baby Jesus in His manger lists the genealogy of Christ from Abraham to Joseph.  Or the sculpture of Judas kissing Jesus has a serpent slithering at their feet.  It’s amazing.  I’m already planning a trip back to the cathedral when it’s finally finished!

My first impression of Paris was that I knew a whole lot less French than I thought I did.  My second was that pain du chocolate is WAY better than anyone ever told me.  Actually, French food in general is way better than anyone ever bothered to inform me.  The Grand Marnier soufflé and then this apple pastry (Chansonne Pomme? I think?) were to die for.  I’m convinced the flaky butter crust on the pastry was made in heaven, possibly by the angel Gabriel himself.  Also, the Eiffel Tower is bigger than I expected, Versailles is impressive, and I could spend weeks in the Louvre.  Our sightseeing was cut short in Paris by Abby’s maladies so I need to get back there again at some point in my life.

When I’m around Americans now – or any group that’s speaking in English – I find the fact that I can understand their conversations almost abrasive.  It’s so strange how quickly I adapted to being secluded while still being surrounded by people.  I also need to learn more about the French medical system – whatever they’re doing, they’re doing it well, and if we’re not already, the U.S. ought to take some notes from them. 

My next post will be the first in my Rome series:  #WhenInRome.  And if you’re wondering why I’m using a hash tag, well, I do what I want. J  Ciao!

Stress

My mom had said to me before I left for Europe this summer, “You know, I think I get why a lot of people don’t go to Europe; it’s not really a vacation.”  I dismissed her comment which should have been my first red flag – when I don’t listen to my mother, she’s always right.  Little did I know what was in store for me…

1) The stress began before I even left my house.  I (stupidly) left most of my packing until the morning I left, only to discover the backpack I planned to take was WAY too small.  Praise God Jenny came to my rescue with a larger pack.  What would I do without her??

2)  Abby and I began our time in Rome with a €70 taxi ride to the northern outskirts of the city – our hotel’s actual location NOT the advertised location of “near Termini.”  I felt the need to punch something while we road in the taxi, watching the money meter tick higher and higher…

3)  The same hotel lied about the bus number to get back to the city center, so Abby and I trekked around Rome for a good hour and a half trying to find a nonexistent bus stop with our monstrous backpacks.  This hotel is not getting the best review from me.

4)  Our hostel in Barcelona gave off illegal vibes.  We stayed in a random apartment in a back alley of the city.  They only took cash.  We’re also pretty sure someone shot off a gun in said alleyway the last night we were there.  Needless to say, I wouldn’t recommend this lodging sight either…

5)  And this is where the real fun begins!  Our last night in Paris, Abby didn’t feel well, but we just thought it was some type of food poisoning.  The next morning Abby felt that the pain was pinpointed right around her appendix scar, and she was throwing up uncontrollably.  Here ensues 36 of the craziest hours of my life:  figuring out how to operate French payphones, calling Mom and Dad, getting Abby to a Paris emergency room, sitting in limbo for 7 hours with limited contact to anyone who speaks English, a solo taxi ride to my hotel, navigating the Paris metro at midnight through throngs of drunken Parisienne concert-goers, meandering into a hospital afterhours with no clue as to where I’m going or what’s going on with my sister, and not eating for most of this (and anyone who knows me knows how poorly I operate while hungry).

[Update on Abby:  She has now undergone two surgeries.  The first was to remove a leftover appendix piece from her appendix surgery in 2009, the second was to drain her abdominal cavity of infected fluid and remove an infected piece of her colon.  She’s currently recovering (and recovering well according to doctors – praise Jesus!) in the Saint-Antoine Hospital in Paris with my dad by her side. Keep them in your prayers!]

6) The whole situation with Abby has been beyond stressful.  If it hasn’t given me an ulcer, it’ll be a(nother) miracle.

Anyway, as my mother predicted, this has NOT been a vacation.  But looking back on everything that has happened, I can so clearly see God’s hand working faithfully in every situation.  The 36 hours of limbo was full of miracles and people I’m pretty darn sure were angels.  I didn’t realize it at the time, and I still haven’t fully come to terms with everything that has happened in the past two weeks, but I’m so thankful for a God who cares for His children and acts on their behalf.

Psalm 112:7-8  “He does not fear bad news nor live in dread of what may happen.  For he is settled in his mind that Jehovah will take care of him.”

Wedding

I have a new sister! Please welcome Kathryn as the newest member of the Worland clan!  It still surprises me that anyone would want to marry Phil (haha just kidding), but if anyone is up for the job, it's definitely Kathryn. She's amazing, and she was the most beautiful bride I've ever seen. Abby and I had the honor of being two of her bridesmaids, and it was such a fun experience. All of Kathryn's other bridesmaids were so kind and friendly - I felt like I'd known them for a lot longer than three days! The wedding took place about twenty minutes away from the town Kathryn grew up in, so a lot of wedding activities took place at Kathryn's parents' home. Dr. and Mrs. Hartford are incredible people.  They are so generous and fun, and I so appreciate how they have really made Phil a part of their great family, as well as Abby, my parents, and I, too!  I don't think I can ever rant enough about how great Kathryn and the Hartfords are, but that will do for now :)

Phil and Kathryn included 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 in their ceremony and verses 4-8 are some of my favorite verses in the Bible.  "Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  Love never fails."  How beautiful is that?  And even better, 1 John 4:8 tells us that GOD is love. So God possesses all of those characteristics; He is the perfect embodiment of them all.  God never fails, and He keeps no record of wrongs. Amazing. Simply mind-blowing.

It was weird to think about this weekend, as Abby, Mom, and I sat around getting our hair done, that the next time someone in our immediate family gets married it'll be Abby or me.  Preferably Abby.  Haha. I'm already planning a pee-your-pants-laughing then cry-your-eyes-out maid-of-honor speech!

Wedding: check - my brother is married to a wonderful woman. Next thing on the list:  Young Life camp at Lost Canyon!!!! So excited! Can't wait to see what God has in store for this next week.  Hope everyone is enjoying the wonderful beginnings of summer as much as I am.  Love these lyrics from a Bob Marley song: "Sun is shining. Weather is sweet. Make you wanna move your dancing feet." Savor this season!

Summer

I am a useless bum.  How did I come to this conclusion? The minute summer hits, I literally do nothing. I didn't get dressed today until three in the afternoon. I lounged on my bed, perused Facebook, and watched One Direction interviews on YouTube.  [Tangent:  if you haven't listened to One Direction, please go do so now. I love their music, and I love them because they're British and a boy band - can they get any better?? No. End tangent.]  Anyway, as you can tell, I'm lazy.  I have all of these brilliant plans to read hundreds of books, write a novel, watch a ton of movies, run marathons, save the world, etc. during the summer, but I cannot follow through. That is why I'm really glad I'm traveling this year - I'll feel like I'm actually doing something useful and educational.  And awesome...

Update on the moths: they followed me to Los Alamos. We have a colony living in our hallway, and they are sabotaging my house.  They (in the course of battle) broke a picture frame on our wall.  My dad dove on the floor yesterday in order to kill one.  Mom and I battle-royaled with three in the kitchen last night. I fought one in the stairwell this morning. Absurd. Dear moths, y'all and your moth dust need to GET OUT. Sincerely, moi.

Realization from the four days I've been home:  my mom and dad are super cool.  Like they are so funny. And they are great people. My dad took me on a date to see the Avengers, and he talks really loud in the theaters, but that's okay with me now. I don't get embarrassed by them anymore because, honestly, as I get older, their quirks are more endearing than annoying.  I appreciate them more and more every time I'm with them because I realize they're my God-given Yodas: so wise and so thoughtful.  Just take a minute and think about all your parents do for you, sacrifice for you, and about how much they love you. It's amazing, and I thank God for my mom and pops every day.  *end of sappiness* Haha.

Nicole found this quote the other day, and I want to travel this way this summer:  "Put down that map and get wonderfully lost." Isn't it so true that some of the most amazing moments in life are unplanned and unmarked?  Take some time this summer, no matter if you're in Timbuktu or your hometown, and leave the map at home so you can stray from the beaten path into a world of adventure and spontaneity.

I'm reminded of Bilbo Baggin's words:  "It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out of your door.  You step into the Road, and if you don't keep your feet, there is no knowing where you might be swept of to."  But Bilbo, what if I don't want to keep my feet? What if I want to be swept away on a glorious adventure?

I think I'm ready for this "dangerous business", Summer 2012!

Procrastination

Here's the deal.  I have severe writer's block for my term paper for my 19th Century Lit class.  Don't get me wrong, I actually really like this class, and I enjoy my topic for the paper - insanity in the Victorian woman - but I have zero inspiration right now.  Maybe that's because it's not two in the morning which seems to be prime writing hour for me...Awful, I know. Haha.  I can only write in "that chill which comes over one at the coming of the dawn, which is like, in its way, the turn of the tide" (Bram Stoker).  Where is my turning of the tide at 5:30 in the evening??  Apparently resting up for another late night...

I am done with school in 4 days.  Thursday at noon I'm done with my last final.  Hallelujah!  I'm ready to head home and spend several days relaxing before the craziness that is Summer 2012 truly begins.  I'm soooo ready!! Come at me, Summer!

Finals Week is a funny time.  A wave of impostors descends upon Zimmerman.  There's seriously a 50% increase in the amount of people at the library.  All of my favorite study spots have been hijacked.  Starbucks is making bank: there are 8 Starbucks drinks in my immediate vicinity. And suddenly the motivation that's been faithfully walking next to me all semester deserts me.  All I want to do is lay in the sun and read a book.  Okay, done complaining.

Must. Write. Paper. Good luck to everyone else taking finals and finishing up school! Summer's just around the riverbend!