Don't Get Attached

I never realized how attached to people you can become in such a short amount of time. The camps are a great way to meet new people and see different places, but you've got to be careful about letting your emotions get in the way.

During my first camp in Covo, Mark told me, "The key to this job is don't get attached." This was a strange concept to me at first, but I've begun to perfect the art. I'm doing my job, having fun, and not getting too attached. I give my kids everything during the week, but not much more attention one they're gone. The sad thing is that I'm already forgetting some of them - their names, their accomplishments, the funny things they might have said to me...the only thing I can really remember is the way they made me feel, and I guess that's what it's all about.

I've been getting so used to this ACLE way of life - living in Italy, moving to a different home every week, going to teach for a living - that I nearly forgot what life was like back in America. Now don't hate me, but I honestly hadn't though much about my life back at home until the ride leaving Pescasseroli. I mean, I actually had to try to remember. "I go to the University of Maryland..Wow, I have my own apartment! Wait I can drive? A suburban!? When did I join a sorority?"

It all seemed unreal to me. How strange is that? I've lived in America for 20 years, and in Italy for only 2 months. How does memory loss happen so quickly?

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All of my previous locations have lasted no more than 1 week, until Sesto Fiorentino. If I thought it was hard leaving those other locations, then I thought wrong. I've grown too attached to the city, the people, and the way of life. I can honestly say that I would feel comfortable living there for a year or 2. I even contemplated what would happen had I taken a year off and had just not come back to the states. Clearly that's not the best plan, but considering I somewhat forgot my life back home, the thought sounded quite appealing.

Just so you know, I plan on returning here (Sesto) in a few years. Taylor and I were seriously talking about renting a flat together in Sesto in 2 years, after I graduate. Not quite sure what kind of work I'll do, but at that point I'll be certified to work as a speech assistant. I'm totally cool doing that for a year or two if there are positions available. Obviously this is just speculation, but we're going to keep in contact to see where we end up in 2 years.

I've also decided what tattoo I finally want to get. Don't know when, but I love love LOVE the Fleur-de-lis ~ the symbol of Firenze. Talk about not getting too attached - I'm practically ready to brand myself with this city. But I'll hold off on it - maybe when I live here for a year, just to make sure.

Anyway, it was extremely difficult for me to move on to another city. I still feel like I'm only vacationing to different parts of Italy, and will return back to Sesto soon. But who know.. I could be.