Today is November 5. Last night was Election night, and what an evening! I was in Italian class with C.R. while all of the results were coming in. Luckily, our professoressa had the television turned on, without the sound, and we were able to see what was happening. Needless to say, I couldn’t concentrate at all, this being one of the most exciting elections in history. It was my last class as well. Professoressa kept us late, which was frustrating me, but as we were walking out the door and I was on the phone with a great friend of mine, the race was called. Regardless of who people in this country were voting for, it was quite a moment. I am still reeling. And I know we are moving towards a brighter future. Both candidates had excellent speeches. McCain’s concession speech was hopeful and dignified, while Obama’s acceptance speech was inspiring and humble. I think we can all agree that it was a night to remember.
Aside from all of the excitement from the election, I am excited to be moving closer to my new home. Tomorrow I leave for Las Vegas with C.R. and her husband. We will be celebrating his birthday there on the 10th, and will be returning on the 12th. A couple of last minute errands and appointments, and the 14th marks a going away party for me. We will attempt to celebrate into the wee hours, when at last I will be taken to the airport by at least two, but maybe a caravan of friends. My flight leaves at 7:50am from San Francisco International Airport. I have a layover in New York (a mere hour) and then on towards Rome. From Rome I must take the express train to the train station, and then another train into Firenze. My Italian friend (who came to California to visit) will meet me and help me lug my heavy bags to the apartment (or at least a taxi) and then up several flights of stairs, where one of the housemates should be waiting to let me in.
As far as my luggage goes, I am limiting myself to one big suitcase and one little one, and a carry-on backpack and computer bag. I am having trouble fitting everything into the bags, because I have several of my most beloved books, a couple pairs of newly beloved boots and other little things that I can’t be away from for such a long time. Cazzatore called me on monday and I told him I would bring a lot of stuff (because I knew he would protest). He is the traveling type who brings a tiny suitcase when he goes to another country for a year. I have never been able to do that, although I did only bring one suitcase when I went to Brasil for 3 and a half months. I’m working on it. I have had several “test-packs”, where I pack everything up, then take it out again and try to whittle down. Since we are leaving tomorrow for Vegas, I imagine that this will be my last day for a “test-pack” before the real one. I am going to be in Italy in ten days. I can hardly stand the anticipation. Just put me on a plane and take me to my beloved boot.
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