Arrival in Itlay, Udine, Milan

Posting this exactly 19 since my feet first stepped onto Italian soil. With unreliable internet access and jet lag I am just getting around to posting my wonderful experiences of the first few days of my trip.

The Airport Experience 

I departed from America at 5:48 eastern time and landed in Venice at 8:45 local time.

The airport was a whirlwind of stress for me. Taking extreme pride in punctuality, I was extremely nervous about the 46 minute layover from my first flight to Atlanta and my departing flight from Atlanta. After a bumpy, nauseating, but short first flight to Atlanta I had no trouble finding the next terminal and gate for my next flight.

The flight to Venice was EXTREMELY comfortable. I had the whole row to myself. This means I had TWO seats to stretch out across, TWO blankets to wrap up in (which were most definitely needed with -64 degree outside the aircraft temperatures), TWO pillows to support my back against the arm rest while laying, and TWO pull out tables to set my many diet coke orders on. I was unable to successfully sleep on the flight, but overall I could not have asked for a better situation to be in for 9 hours.

The Arrival

When we arrived we went through a short, quick, customs and passport stamping then headed to retrieve our luggage. We immediately found Silvia and her mother and were greeted with kisses on the cheeks, lots of hugs, and cappuccinos (which I have been craving ever since).

After about an hour ride back to Silvia's house we rested and waited on lunch. We were greeted with a plethora of amazing food all cooked by Silvia's mom. We had traditional bread from Sicily, traditional food from her northern region, and even traditional food from Rome. The food was amazing and I probably gained 4 pounds in just that sitting.

After lunch we rested some more and unpacked. Around 8pm local time we began to get ready for dinner. After numerous outfit changes and suggestions (lets be real what do Italians actually wear that I would own?) we were finally ready to go to a pizza parlor. The pizza and service was amazing. I was shocked though that at nine we were close to the only people in the restaurant because it was so "early".

After supper we toured Udine and met up with some of Silvia's friends before going home to prepare for our train to Milan the next day.

MILANO

Lets just get this out of the way first. I LOVED MILAN. I loved the architecture, I loved the atmosphere, I loved the food, I loved the wine, and I even loved the subways.

Okay now back to the story, Our train departed from Udine at 8:07am and was expected to arrive in Milan at 1:45 pm. This was the first time (that I can remember) to ever be on a train. Lets just say packing a suitcase bigger than myself was not the first mistake I made. I did have trouble opening the doors to the train car, which resulted in being insulted in Italian, but don't worry Silvia had my back. I was very impressed with the train overall though, and I was partially jealous that we do not have this type of efficient transportation systems back home.

Through the hustle and bustle of the train station when arriving in Milan, we met up with Simon, who had flown in from Germany, and grabbed a bite at none other than a bugger king. We took a cab to our hotel, which was a little outside of Milan. We stayed at Cosmo Hotel Palace. I Highly recommend this hotel for anyone willing to take a subway, who likes affordability, and for who likes nice, clean rooms with nice views. If you're not up for this, then this is not the Hotel for you.

After unloading at the hotel and taking a short resting period, we all went out to explore more of the wonderful, beautiful city of Milan.

From the hotel to the city center, we took a street car and a subway. Like the train, it was my first subway experience and I am 100% sure I looked like a classic tourist as I tightly clutched my purse to my body in fear of any pickpockets. When we exited the subway the most amazing view was upon us. The Duomo. When I think of the Duomo I think of thousands of statutes on the exterior if the building. To be exact there are 3159 statues on the Duomo, but the truly amazing part is that it was built in 1386!!!!!! The United States of America was not thought about and there was a building being made with 3159 life-sized statues on it. The whole thing is truly remarkable. 

After touring the city center, we got back on a subway to go a little on the outskirts to a very nice restaurant. I had the most amazing pasta, and the place was even air-conditioned! I could've easily spent hours there eating, drinking, and chatting. When our wonderful meal was over we went back to the city center to see more of Milan at night before returning to the hotel and preparing for the next day. 

The next day we went to EXPO. EXPO 2015 will be very detailed in the next post. 

Italy, both Udine and Milan are HIGHLY recommended to visit if you're ever in the mood to see some of the most amazing, unthinkably beautiful sights. 

Ciao until next time!

The Trip of a Lifetime

Three days. Three days until I'm boarding a plane. Three days until I'm taking the trip of a lifetime. Three days until I finally get to embark on a trip that I've been planning for over a year and a half. Three days until I finally get to see one of my very best friends for the first time in a year. All in just three days.

In three days I will be on my way to a new city, country, and continent. I will finally arrive in Italy. All of this with my very best friends by my side.

In 2011 I made a bucket list and number 237 on the list will be checked off in just three days. Words cannot describe the excitement I am feeling now that this dream is becoming a reality. I look forward to the jet lag, the hot sun, the iceless drinks, the blisters on my feet, but most importantly the memories to be made that will last forever.

While on this trip I will be traveling from Alabama to Italy with my best friend, Shelley. Upon arrival we will meet Silvia, Shelley's exchange student from two years ago who eventually became her sister and my rock during junior year. Lets just say there will be PLENTY of happy tears! From there we will be spending time with her friends and family in Udine. We will visit Milan to see the world expo and other amazing features that the wonderful city has to offer. While in Milan we're meeting up with another exchange student and special friend, Simon. When we leave Milan we will head to Schorndorf, Germany to spend time with Simon's friends and family. While in Germany we will also see Stuttgart and Munich. The last few days of our trip will be spent back in Italy with Silvia's friends and family at the beach in Lignano Pineta! Our trip will end in Venice as we spend time there before boarding our plane back to the states.

We will be Europe bound for a total of two weeks in two wonderful countries. There are no words to describe how thankful I am for Silvia who has opened her home and took it upon herself to plan everything from the places to the trains to the hotels. I am also equally thankful for Simon and his family who have opened up their home to three girls and have also taken it upon themselves to show us the best of what their country has to offer.

Please pray for safe travels for Shelley, Silvia, Simon, and myself has we reconnect and experience an adventure of a lifetime. 

Now it's time for me to start brushing up on my limited Italian vocabulary. Be prepared for a plethora of pictures to come.

Shelley, Silvia, Me

Shelley, Simon, Me

P.S. the moral of the story is: If you ever want to travel the world, make friends with exchange students.

The Wonderful Men in My Life

In Honor of Fathers Day I've decided to post about the wonderful, selfless, caring men who have all had a hand in making me the person I am today. 


My Amazing Dad
Kevin Crawford is more than a father who has always played an active role in my life, he is my hero and best friend. I truly trust him with all of my secrets. Whenever I need advice whether it be with friendships, relationships, or even outfits he is the first person I turn to. He's been my taxi driver (for at least 16 years and those days when I don't feel like driving), my cook, my laundry mat, my bedroom cleaner (for those weeks that the floor becomes taken over by clothes I decided not to wear), my pharmacy/ food delivery guy. He's been the person on the other end of the text I send during first period when I realize I ran out of the house without a project, paper, diet coke, deodorant, ect. He's the guy who drops anything if I'm sick (or forgot to study for a test) to come check me out. The guy who comes to the rescue when I lock my keys in the trunk of my car or when I have a killer migraine and crave excedrin. He's the guy who I argue loud and proud with in regards to all things politics because he taught me the importance of being able to form my own opinions and think for myself. He is the wonderful man I can call at any time throughout the day and vent my feelings towards. He has had my back on the softball field, basketball court, and cheer mat. He is the ultimate dad. He is super dad. I'm so lucky to call this God fearing, drop anything to help someone else, Alabama football fan dad mine. I love you so much.

My Wonderful Stepfather
Meeting you during my crazy(er), hormone filled days of middle school it's surprising you stuck around with two of the sassiest, hardheaded, eye rolling, constantly picking at you girls, but I'm so happy you did. Clay Patterson has done more than turned me into an Ole Miss Rebel. He's the guy who I text (way too much) to see how much money I have left on my debt card. The guy who's taught me to love bread pudding and eat pints of Ben & Jerry's at anytime because dessert is always an acceptable replacement for any meal. The guy who's taken me to visit the schools of my dreams and eat some pretty expensive steak while we were there. He's been supportive during breakups, deaths, and conflicts with family. He's truly an amazing man who's introduced me to an amazing family. He's treated me like his own and now I can't imagine life without him. I love you Clay.

All of My Many Fabulous Grandfathers
My Granddaddy. One of the most amazing, sensitive, hard of hearing, caring, giving, selfless men. Without him I would not have been able to do as many of the adventures I have such as mountain trips, beach trips, and European vacations. From coming to get me at school to take me to the doctor to teaching me how to play solitaire on the computer I've always looked up to him. I owe probably an extra 15 lbs on my body to him for constantly going out to eat. Through him I learned the true meaning of love. He loved my grandmother for nearly 60 years. I watched him pick up food for her, cook when she was too tired to, do laundry for her. I watched him stay at the hospital day in and day out after she had a stroke until he had to be admitted because he was too worried about her to eat or sleep. He taught me what love is and how you sacrifice for those you love. My favorite place to go and spend the night has always been granddaddy's house (and not just because of the Krispy Kreme I wake up to). I'm so proud to be your baby girl. I love you Grandaddy.

My Papa. I know for a fact I got my sass, wit, and work ethic from him. He is one of the strongest men I know, mentally and physically. He worked hard for everything and put himself through college and law school when the odds were against him. He's lost friends and family, but he still manages to have a sparkle is his baby blue eyes. He taught me to say "yes sir" and "no sir". He taught me to respect my elders and always listen to their stories no matter how long they are or how many times they fall asleep before they're over. I can't stand to sleep past ten in the morning because I always imagine his voice yelling "GET UP YOU'RE WASTING DAYLIGHT". I know my need for adventure comes straight from you. I owe my first time water skiing and tubing all to him. He's the man who spent time and money teaching me to fish at Ann's house and the bay. His goofy side (that often only appeared around his granddaughters) is my favorite. I can't imagine going to buy halloween costumes in July with anyone else. I love you Papa.

My Daddy Don. I'm sure no one has a Daddy Don (at least not like mine anyways). He's the type of man who will greet you with a five minute long hug (even after back surgery). He's the kind of guy who lets all the grandkids drive the golf cart on the farm (even if you're five years old like I was). He taught me the proper names for the different kinds of cows and he taught me to eat oysters straight out of the shell. He is truly a kind, genuine person who would go to any length to see any of his 11 grandchildren happy. He's the person who convinced my parents to let me have my first dog after I begged and begged. Even though sometimes he wears the wrong colors (orange and blue) he never fails to put a smile on my face. I am truly so happy to have my Daddy Don and all of the wonderful family he brought with him. He's adventurous and funny. I love you Daddy Don.

My Daddy Pat. I haven't known him for near as long, but I do know that he's the type of guy who would welcome three new women into his family with open arms and treat them as if they've always been there. He's helped me tremendously with choosing a college and actively making sure Ole Miss did everything they could to get me there (and it worked!!!). He's supported me and encouraged me through the past four years far beyond anything I could have expected or imagined. All of the trips to Oxford and Mt. Fuji have allowed me to grow closer with him and truly see his kindhearted character. I've seen him handle difficult situations with dignity and strength. I've seen him go from suits to Hawaiian shirts (a personal shocker for me). Thank you for everything Daddy Pat. Hotty Toddy. I love you.

I am one of the lucky ones. I have so many men in my life who have shaped me into the person I am today. I have an army of supporters and encouragers behind me. I do not know where I would be without each one of these wonderful men.  Words cannot and will not be able to describe the thanks I owe to each. I Love You All.

Genius Syndrome

Let me take the time to introduce you to one of my passions, and tell you the story of how it all came about. 

I only volunteered at the camp for autistic kids because my new 12 year-old step-brother, whom I was just getting to know, was signed up as a camper but was petrified to attend.  Without much thought, I told him, “I’ll come with you and be a counselor and you will at least know me.”  That seemed to assuage his fears and soon I was signed up, trained, and reporting for duty.

While waiting for my camper to arrive the first day, a young boy approached the cabin, oblivious to his surroundings, mesmerized by the watch around his thin wrist. I tried to capture his attention with a smile and a cheerful, “Welcome to Camp,” but he didn’t even look up. Once all of the children arrived, we were paired up with our camper. The boy with the watch, Sam, was assigned to me and I became his guardian for the week. Over the next few hours I grew concerned because I was unable to connect with Sam and he hadn’t spoken a single word to me. However, on the afternoon hike, Sam’s high-pitched voice belted, “KACI! THERE IS A BUG!!! HELP ME!” This exclamation proved a few things to me:

1. Sam had been paying attention to me as I made one-sided conversation with him throughout the day.

2. Sam realized that I was there to protect and care for him.

3. Sam and I both have an extreme fear of bugs.

Both paralyzed with fear, we clung tightly to one another, shrieking like little girls until the  GIANT cockroach scurried by. From that moment on we connected and he fully trusted me with all of his needs.

 Exactly at 12:00 each day he announced, “Kaaaccciii it is twelve o’clock. That means it is time for lunch. We should be going right now”.  He heralded every activity we were assigned each day with similar punctuality, courtesy of his sacred watch.  After supper each night, Sam would race back to the cabin in order to be the first one in the shower.  To my surprise, on that first night he poked his head out of the bathroom door and called, “Kaaaccciii I need you to hold my watch for me. I cannot get it wet. Please, please, please do not lose it.” Dutifully, my eyes never came off of that watch either. It was my responsibility to look after him, which means I had to look after his mysterious, extraordinary, beeping watch.

            Sam has Asperger’s Syndrome, which. falls under the autism spectrum and is commonly known as “genius syndrome.” Sam made me believe just that. Aside from being able to tell time, he could speak Spanish, Latin, and some French. He can play the piano like a little Mozart and his air guitar skills are impeccable.

Sam taught me a lot that summer, like how to lock a bathroom door from the opposite side and how to have correct posture while riding a horse. More importantly, though, Sam demonstrated the joy in being unapologetically authentic, embracing the gifts he was born with, without regard to social expectations of how he should act, dress or speak.  I now understand what Albert Einstein meant by, “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” Strangers may meet Sam and be put off, but now I endeavor to be more like him. Because of him, I don’t judge a person by how closely they fit into our media-driven concept of “normal”.  I recognize that everyone, regardless of IQ or social skills, has unique talents worth celebrating.  His lessons from that week will change how I interact with people for the rest of my life. And I owe my thanks to a nine-year-old boy and his mysterious, extraordinary, beeping watch. 

Thanks to Sam and all of the wonderful, different, outgoing, loud, dramatic, fabulous kids at camp (who could occasionally lose their temper a time or two), I was able to have a first hand look at how everyone in the world has a true purpose and unique attributes that fulfill their purpose. I realized that most people spend their time trying to fit into a role they perceive to be correct all while losing  their identity in the process. The most important lesson I learned from these children is to see the world through nonjudgmental, caring eyes. No child at camp saw you by what you were wearing or what you looked like, they saw your actions and your spirit. My Passion is to stand up for the acceptance of mentally handicapped people and work with others to help them understand their differences and needs. 

*names were changed for the protection and privacy of campers