This past Friday right after work my Dad and I drove up to Winona, MN where I spent 4 years growing and expanding my mind, body and soul.  The second half of my junior year in 2002, was my first taste of Florence.  That adventure opened my eyes to another world, another feeling in life.  We arrived late in the evening and it turning dark around 4:30 made it impossible to see the new TURF soccer(calcio, scusa tesoro) field.  Nonetheless I wanted to see my home for 4 years.  2 years ago was my last visit, so yes, I was a bit excited to see new paint jobs done to some walls, new furniture, and also appalled that our locker room is now the girl's basketball locker room.   I figured because I was an Alum, I was able to walk anywhere and open any door I wanted to.  So I did.   

There were new and improved floors in Old Mary's Hall however the smell of olden times were still in the air.  I found all my professors(from all four years) offices, and went to the computer labs which were all locked, where we all did most of our socializing while pretending to write papers or print out research material.  I was in awe of the fact that wireless is EVERYWHERE on my old campus.  Only 6 years ago I was walking these halls and only checking email in computer labs and my room.  I  asked the guy at the bookstore where he lives and if he had wireless out there too.

"I live in the Old(Village). I don't even think there are even plugs for Ethernet in our place anymore, because we are wireless everywhere."

WOW!  Funny how impressed I am with my school.  I have had wireless since leaving the bluffs of Saint Marys, but for some reason it seemed wrong and completely unlike my school to change. 

On Saturday morning, I met with my most favorite professor, Dr. John Poling for a long overdue breakfast.  You might notice a quote I have in my sidebar, which he wrote me when I was in Italy in 2005.  He and I have kept in touch over the years I've been away and it is like we pick up right where we left off.  We had a great visit and he informed me of something of the Italian kind.  (Which he always makes sure he discusses with me.)   

Saint Mary's Art Director is manning a 3 week adventure to Italy. Florence, Rome, Venice, and a couple other places.  John encouraged me to email this person to see if I can add something to the trip, my expertise of Florence, language skills, ANYTHING.  I have always wanted to get into a Study Abroad program like the one I partook in.  I LOVE LOVE LOVE talking about Italy and telling stories. (as most of you already know).  So I am hoping to hear back from the Study Abroad office of my Alma Mater with good positive feedback. 

All in all it was a sucessful weekend with my Dad and I.  Thanks to my Dad for the company and conversation.  Love you very much! 

Here are a few pictures of my gorgeous campus! 

Sign reads: Players Only Beyond This Point.  Well that is me!! 


a presto amici