"Bummed Out"

Well today is the last day for Francesco in the lab in Rome before he embarks on his American adventure in Gainesville. He seems really excited but at the same time I understand that it's a little difficult to say goodbye to everything that is familiar to you for a whole year. This includes saying goodbye to your family, friends, sights of your city, and simply the habits that you're used to. It reminded me of how I had to say goodbye to everyone last September. And even worse, it's making me think of how hard it's going to be to say goodbye to everyone when I leave Rome this upcoming September. For the last few weeks we've been talking up all the great things about Florida, particularly Gainesville and my hometown of Jacksonville. Francesco will be living with my old roommates, Tim and Ethan, for two months until I arrive and then we'll live together along with Alessia and Emilianna (more on them later). I'm really thankful for Ethan and Tim helping Francesco out, and I'm really glad that I can do a little bit to help Francesco transition to Florida life. Having some help with Rome definitely helped my experience along. Since my family has gotten to know Francesco really well, they are even really excited to have him in Florida. They are even already inviting Francesco to J-ville this weekend to go to the beach and stuff (I can't say that I'm not jealous).


I told Francesco that I didn't realize I'd be so "bummed out" that he was leaving. I had to explain that "bummed out" meant sad. I kept thinking that we'll see each other in two months and start hanging out again. One thing I didn't think about was how much more fun Rome was having someone from there showing you stuff around. And it again reminded me about leaving and how I'm kind of torn about having to go back to Florida. I told Francesco and some of the Italians that part of me wants to go back to Florida right now and another part of me can't imagine leaving Italy. When they asked which part doesn't want to leave Italy, I jokingly (and seriously) responded "my stomach". Anyhow, come Wednesday start looking out for Francesco in Gainesville and don't be afraid to give him a "What's Up?" or a "Ciao Bello".