Howdy!
Today, your Italy bloggers are Joshua and Fatima, checking in from Castiglion Fiorentino! Our day started off in the typical fashion, beginning with a continental breakfast before splitting into two groups: one beginning with Italian lessons and a lecture on academics and the other group returning to Rick’s art studio. In accordance with our excitement for the upcoming semester, those in the academics group had many questions about the college experience. From asking about Aggie life to academic advising, all of our questions were thoroughly answered by our student leader, Faris. After our morning activities, both groups ate lunch together at The Gardens restaurant. Later, both groups had some free time to explore the historical city and practice their Italian before returning to their afternoon classes and art activities.
For the art group, we were given another chance to explore our inner creativity in Rick’s art studios and many of us drew inspiration from our sorely missed families back at home. Though we were not given any specific instructions on what to draw, our creativity ran loose and nearly all of us represented ourselves as well as our loved ones in our art. Each individual picture not only connected us with historical printmaking but also gave us a chance for self-reflection at the half-way point in this trip. We were able to express our feelings and put a personal touch on our works.
After saying “Ciao!” to Rick, many students participated in an Italian cheese tasting! After the introduction about this traditional craft, we were offered a selection of homemade cheeses, with students trying to taste the sensations of various cheeses. The tasting lasted about an hour, but the seven cheeses made the time pass quickly. We were given an opportunity to slow down and appreciate each block of cheese using all of our senses. From smelling the cheese to learning about its history and hardness, we had a thorough dairy-centered education. Each cheese tasted different, and some unique culinary pairings with other foods even enhanced our experience. It helped us to appreciate the variety of Italian cheeses and we savored every bite! For the cheese lovers among us, it was a highlight of the trip!
Once the cheese tasting had finished (sadly), the group made its way back to the hotel where we were greeted by a visit from Rick, who brought some of his own works to show to the group. Many students found a work that touched the heart of themselves or their loved ones back home. We again remembered that art can sometimes express what words cannot. Once the visit had finished, Rick joined us for a relaxed dinner at the hotel with an excellent presentation of Arezzo’s culture and history to prepare us for tomorrow’s journey! After dinner, the group (per usual) traveled back to one of our favorite gelaterias, Meraviglioso, Italian for “wonderful.” Stay tuned for the adventures yet to come!
Arrivederci and buona notte!
~ Fatima and Joshua
