Sometimes you live in the best city in Europe

While doing some research on trips, I encountered a website ranking cities in Europe.  Florence came up as number one, and I realized I have yet to post much of anything about the amazing city I live in every day!

I am taking a class on Renaissance Culture and Civilization as well as Renaissance art here, so about half of my classes are held in a church or museum. Does that really even count as class?
My host mom only speaks Italian are we are not allowed to speak English at dinner, so when I'm not chowing down on whatever delicious 3-course meal she has prepaired I practice my Italian a lot and am definitely improving!

This is the view from my front door.  This church, Santa Croce, houses the body of Michelangelo, Galileo, and other notable Florentines. Not too bad a location, I'd say.   On Sundays musicans come and play in the square, and there is usually a marionette show (its not Sound of Music but they're pretty good)

On Ash Wednesday I went to mass in the Duomo, it was really interesting! A little cold because the churches are not heated, but definitely a fun experience.

I eat a fair amount of Gelato.  On a sunny day, it's hard to resist!

When there are clear skies and no rain I love wandering around Florence in awe of its beauty

On Sunday evening I typically watch the sunset with friends at Piazza Michelangelo, above the city.  We bring wine and chocolate (I typically just eat chocolate.. oops.) and there is a cute little one-woman-show who performs a variety of Italian songs, English songs, and my favorite, English songs in Italian.

You can see the whole city from up there!

On Valentines day there was a flash mob in Piazza della Republica.  I plan on making my own flash mob while here, but this was fun as well!

Last week I was lucky enough to have my best friend Katie visit from France! We had tons of fun eating our was through Florence, stoping at several muesuems along the way, and climbed the bell tower next to the Duomo.  We orionally planned on climbing the Duomo itself, legend has it that students will not graduate if they climb the bell tower, but the intimidating line for the Duomo convinced us that we were pretty sure we are in not danger of graduating.  It was so windy we were a little afraid we would get blown off, but we both made it up and down the 414 stairs safe and sound! 

Sometimes I think I want to stay here forever, but don't worry Mom, I promise I'll come home in 5 months!