Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Wednesday....

So my boyfriend gives me a wake up call,because I asked to call me...I can't even sit up from my bed...too tired from the shocking news I received the day before and kind of tired,from participating in the American Red Cross Blood Drive that was held by my college.It was a great cause and I was glad that I had participated...It even help lessen my fears of needles.Anyway,I am at workstudy without any assignments to do...which is releiving at the same time I wish I had some work to try to take away my thinking about some things for a while. I am frustrated and I have a history class later this afternoon...my first history exam..oh joy!

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

9 Month Anniversary


During the past weekend I was spending time with my boyfriend. He's a senior in high school in Yonkers,NY. The short weekend was amazing and this past Saturday we went to RPI's Open House. He loved it and wants to apply there through Early Decision. I wish him the best of luck. I want him to be happy and being accepted to this college means so much to him. He wants me to review his essay and application,and I will later today.I wish I was able to see him on our 9 Month Anniversary(SEPT. 29th) but the weekend I had with him was so special. I wouldn't change a thing about it. I love him so much. My future is with him. He is smart and hardworking and hopefully RPI will see that too!

Saving....saving and MUch MOre SAviNG!


Saving....saving and so MOre SAviNG!
Yeah I am trying to find a way to save up some money steadily to accomplish my goal so I have decided to open a checking acoount and since I am in college as long as I mantain a certain balance I don't pay any monthly fees...

Another Place of my Traveling list...


Another Place of my Traveling list...is definitely traveling and visiting Ireland! And I am planning to go on a trip with my boyfriend this upcoming summer...Let's see how the saving up for the trip goes...

How to Travel Italy like a Local

Once again more info found on www.ehow.com

How to Travel Italy Like a Local

By William Campbell
Castello di Brolio Castello di Brolio

Rate: (2 Ratings)

Italy is a country of simple wonders, delicious food, and a laid-back lifestyle. Unfortunately, Italy is also home to tourist traps, spiked prices, and 'Americanized' menus and tours. Learn to travel Italy like a local and explore the back alleys, side streets, and the true, wonderful Italian culture the way it was meant to be.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:

* Italian language quick-reference charts
* Reputable travel guidebook
* Patience and a love of culture

Step1
Tourists and Locals Enjoying Gelato Become vaguely familiar with the Italian language. If you don't have the time or desire to learn the language comprehensively, consider investing in a few language pocket charts or quick-reference guides. These will be useful when ordering dinner, asking for directions, and getting around as a local would.
Step2
Italian Men Chatting Look for locals who know where to eat and how to enjoy Italy off the beaten path. Try using your new Italian skills to ask them questions, but feel free to ask them if they speak English, as well. Many Italians do and are happy to assist you.
Step3
Back Alley Search for trattorias, restaurants, and shops off of the beaten path. Follow the lead of Italians rather than tourists, because most Italian cities are full of hidden wonders and experiences only known by those who live there.
Step4
Florence Skyline Spend your days in Italy touring famous, well-known attractions as well as meandering through the towns and cities you visit. An equal balance of the two activities allows you to see famous places and enjoy regular Italian life at the same time.
Step5
Enjoy your trip further by doing things that you want to do, rather than things that you feel you have to do. The best Italian vacations involve no sense of urgency, but rather a laid-back attitude.
Step6
Eat at restaurants filled with Italians instead of tourists. This usually indicates that it is a favorite even among locals.
Step7
Quiet Courtyard Rest and relax in the peaceful squares and courtyards that dot the Italian cityscape. These areas provide a unique Italian experience, where you can immerse yourself in regular Italian life.

Tips & Warnings

* Ask if locals speak English by using the Italian phrase, "Parla inglese?" (parla een-glayzay).
* Be adventurous when ordering at restaurants. Stray away from typical spaghetti with meatballs and indulge in gnocchi dishes or spaghetti alle vongole, an Italian pasta dish with small Italian clams.
* Do not enter private property without permission. Be careful when entering squares and courtyards, because if they are pedestrian-only they may be private property. Use common sense and judgment.
* Almost all shops, restaurants, gas stations and attractions are closed for 'riposo', a traditional Italian rest during the afternoon. While crowded touristy areas may stay open, expect most businesses to be closed for up to three hours.

further info....on Italy

* Found on the ehow website...

Tips & Warnings:

* For women planning to visit churches and museums, you will not be permitted in if you are wearing shorts, short skirts and sleeveless tops.
* Most historical sights and museums do not permit you to use flashes when taking photos and some museums will not permit videotaping and picture taking. Look for signs that are posted noting the rules on photography.
* Tap water in Italy is highly chlorinated and you should stick to bottled water. This will prevent any stomach illness from ruining your trip.
* Make sure you scrutinize clothing items you are buying in shops, because there is a strict no return policy enforced in most stores. You will also find that many stores do not permit you to try on clothing before you purchase it. This is to lessen damage to items while trying it on.

So I was on this website that had an article on " How to Prepare for a Trip to Italy"
on www.ehow.com
Here's the link:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2117807_prepare-trip-italy.html

Re: Modern Italy Flyer

Yeah that's the flyer that started it all.. my upcoming trip to Italy. I am so excited yet there is so much to do before then. If anyone has advice on how to prepare for a trip please leave a comment. Thank you! :-)

Modern Italy Flyer



Dear Majors,

Before opening this course to all students, I am holding spots for history and history/education majors. If you are interested, please let me know as soon as possible and certainly not later than September 29th. A $100 deposit will be required to reserve your place and travel is required for the course. Modern Italy will fulfill European history and elective history requirements. I hope many of you can join me for this exciting opportunity!

In this course, we will trace the history of Italy from 1815 to the present, looking at its remarkable change from a divided, agrarian land into a leading western nation. We will examine Italy's many compelling contradictions from unification and regionalism to the strong presence of both the Mafia and the Vatican. Along the way, we will discuss the rise of Fascism, social movements and terrorism, reflect on Italy's transformation from a country of emigration to one of immigration, and consider its role in contemporary Europe as the center of food, fashion and film.

NEW THIS YEAR! TRAVEL COMPONENT!

To learn about Italian unification (the Risorgimento) we will spend the Winter Break (February 21-March 1) in Italy with stops in Rome, Florence, Turin, and Milan. The estimated cost is $2800/person (with 15 participants).

SAfety CoNCErNs

By the way,my boyfriend,the love of my life,is half Italian and half Irish. He was talking to me on the phone last week and he mentioned that he was a bit jealous and most importantly he feared because of the issue of me taking a plane flight. What was I supposed to tell him?Why didn't he tell me earlier? Why doesn't he just say what he feels at the moment? I value his important tremendously....I understand his concerns after our conversation but how I am supposed to turn down this opportunity? I've always wanted to travel to Europe! And honestly isn't there always risks in life, in general?

Passport


So as I start to prepare for my trip to Italy, I realize that I need to apply for a passport. The only two places that I have traveled to is Florida and Puerto Rico. I have always wanted to travel to Europe and then I had an opportunity to do so. I leaped at this chance and quickly filled out the application and gave in my deposit. By the way, this trip to Italy is being offered by my college and is linked to a history course that I will take during the spring semester. I filled out an online form for the passport application...but now I have to go to the Post Office. I have no idea where is the nearest location close to my school...better look for it soon.

A few more details....

I am a college freshman and I've been thinking what the hell am I going to do with my life. Currently, I am a history major...and I am wondering what career could I have. I am a member of the history club, gaelic society and pathfinders club. For winter break, I am going on a trip to Italy,hence,the Italy map icon....

brief iNTRO


Hi. My name is angelbear925. I am a college student in a suburban small town near Albany. I just wanted to find a place where I can write periodically and relieve some stress and have the ability to express my thoughts and feelings. Today has been a turning point in my life. This morning, I found out that my grandmother died of a heart attack and just a few days before,on my 18th birthday, she came to visit me at college....so much has changed since then.I am still kind of shocked at the recent news...but life has to go on,right?