Wasn't it January 24 like yesterday?

I'm kind of extremely freaked out by the fact that 3 weeks from today I'll be back in the US and this semester will feel like nothing more than a dream. All the plates of pasta, cones of gelato and impromptu adventures with my friends will have happened and will be done. I know that I'll return to Italy, especially to Rome when I have my rich and gorgeous husband... but for now it's a really bittersweet feeling.
I have the best friends and family in the world so obviously I'm more than excited to get back to seeing them regularly, rather than random skype dates or gchat sessions or the occasional phone call that gets choppy thanks to gmail, but this experience has really been one of the most positive things in my life. Thanks to Rome:

1. I have some new amazing friends. Most of my friends go to American or UMD here, so luckily they are close by when we get back. I'm probably most happy about the amazing roommate I have been lucky enough to have here, my new wifey. Wouldn't have had such an amazing experience if it werent for her. Don't want to boost her ego too much, but we've had some amazing times and I can't wait to get back to DC where we can take over a whole new city. DC should start preparing.

2. I've got some new cooking techniques and recipes under my belt. Most people told me to learn to make some good Italian food when I was coming abroad. Well all you are lucky people because I listened to the requests and will make pasta for all when I'm back. I am so lucky to have been able to take authentic cooking classes from a Roman chef.

3. I really came out of my shell. I know most of you will be like "Zoe what are you talking about" but others of you may know what I'm talking about. I'm no longer the girl who takes carrots and sliced turkey from her purse from a snack, I'm the one that suggests we take a homework break for gelato con panna (gelato with whipped cream kinda thing). I may have gained a few pounds here, but there's not a single problem with that. I probably won't continue to eat gelato/ice cream multiple times a week, or have pasta every single night for dinner when I'm home (mostly because it won't be even half as good as here), but Rome has definitely helped me to become more comfortable in my own skin. You only live once right?


Once again it's back to the papers, the day after Easter is a national holiday so classes were canceled and everything is closed, but once these papers are done.. off to savor my last 20 days in Rome.