Last summer, I never wanted to leave. I suffered greatly upon returning home because all I really wanted to do was hop back on a plane to Italy and rediscover the magic I had lived those summer months. Alas, my second long stay in Italia is coming down to its last 3 nights. Depressing, yes, but then it hit me.

I’m going home. Home. Home were I can eat In-n-out burger, have full access to my closet and accessories, and best of all: I’LL BE ABLE TO WATCH MOVIES!!!!

I normally watch 5 or more movies a week. Hey, I’m a film student. It’s my passion.

I’m sad to leave Italy, but after this emotionally draining weekend and the lack of privacy in my 5-person dorm room…I’m ready. I’m not worried because Italy has my name written all over it. I know I’ll be back. I’m thinking…next summer in Sicily?

My roommates and I are trying to make every last night count. Last night was my roommate Stephanie’s birthday. We got a bottle of wine, some plastic cups, and some chocolate and made our way down to the rocks by the water to watch the waves. I opted for my trusty gladiator sandals, a high waisted black and white printed skirt, and a black silk ruffled top. It was just dressy enough for the occasion without looking like I was overdoing it. On my way out of the dorms, one of the male students stopped me and complimented me saying, “You’re always so fashionable.”

I try! When you’re passionate about something…you can’t help it!

We got through our delicious bottle of wine which I had purchased at the vineyard where we went wine tasting. It was a sweet, white table wine. Cheap and delicious!

My friend at the end of the peninsula who owns that fancy restaurant I’m sure I’ve mentioned before approached us to say hi. He saw our bottle and asked why we drink it. It’s cheap and in his opinion…no good. “Do you want more?”
“Certamente. E’ il suo compleanno!” I said pointing to my roommate. I told him it was her birthday, so yes, more wine should be in order.
Alas, he returns. THREE BOTTLES IN HAND. He started us with Chardonnay. Next, a Sauvignon. Then, the sweet white famous in the area simply called Cinque Terre.

All were so delicious. He is a kind man. Middle aged and, from what I understand, owns 7 restaurants and stores in Portovenere. Did I mention he’s quite keen on me? Last night he kept saying (in Italian mind you): “You have such beautiful eyes and such a warming smile, but I could be your uncle!” Then he would slap his head and walk in circles. I was very relaxed from the wine to say the least so, no, it didn’t creep me out. He’s harmless, I assure you, and immensely complimentary! I would be lying if I said I didn’t love it! We all need that kind of pick-me-up-compliment once and awhile and I REALLY needed it after the whole thing with Filippo.

But get this: after those free bottles of wine, he disappears and returns with a fourth! Prosecco! It’s very delicious if you haven’t tried it before. It’s a dessert wine that goes great with chocolate!

I bought my roommate a gelato on the way home and we watched the full moon rise over the island in the bay and then called it a night. A successful celebration to say the least! Tonight we’re going for a leisurely dinner. I’m wearing this great Marc Jacobs printed dress. It’s comfortable, casual, but sophisticated enough to fit the setting of the restaurant we’re going to. Cheers to another perfect evening, speriamo (we hope)!