My inspiration for the name of my blog came from a quote I came across by Robert Downing. He said, "Italy, my Italy! Queen Mary's saying serves for me--(when fortune's malice lost her Calais)--Open my heart and you will see Graved inside of it, Italy." While I cannot say the same is true of me (at least not as of yet), I loved the sound of "Italy, my Italy." It seemed a fitting name for my coming adventures in Italy.

I leave a week from today. I'm not sure where the time has gone, but I am getting quite excited to go. I can't wait to get to Florence. I am a little sad about being away from my friends and family for 4 months, but I am certain the coming adventures will make it all worthwhile. I can't wait to discover what the future holds.

Italy, here I come!