Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Wednesday....
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!
Another Place of my Traveling list...
How to Travel Italy like a Local
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
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.
Re: Modern Italy Flyer
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!
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
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....
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?