The first post: there's too much to write

I only have 13 minutes to write this post because the librarian has decided to close two hours early. What a shame. There's so much to tell all of you about, but I will just have to begin by saying that I'm happy, healthy, and safe.

I will post in more detail at tomorrow (monday 9-8) but for now, here's a rundown:

On Sunday the 31st, I took Amtrak to LA. On Monday I flew to JFK, and then I went to Frankfurt, Germany, and then Florence. By the time I arrived it was Tuesday, Sep. 2nd. They lost my only bag (besides my backpack..which was fully stocked for this particualr situation), so I just hopped a bus into town from the airport and found the hostel I had planned to stay in. It was great. The next day I checked into my apartment and met my roommates, Johanna, Kelsey, and Kim.

The apartment is spectacular, my roommates are super friendly, and so far I haven't had any of my stuff stolen. For the past 3 days I have been wandering around Florence and have hundreds of pictures to show for it. I will post many of them here.

My feet and ankles are sore and its hard to sleep at night because Italians like to party until 4 AM and the street cleaners dont seem to want to stop, but I am loving every minute of it. I am adjusting well and although I would love to come home now, I am looking forward toughing it out. I miss all of you terribly.

love Chelsea