It is a strange feeling realizing I am already about halfway through my time living in Italy. When I first arrived in Florence, the months ahead felt wide open and full of possibility. Now suddenly I find myself looking back on so many moments that already feel incredibly special.

Before I left, people kept telling me how fast this experience would go. They told me to soak up every second, to stay present, and to appreciate how rare it is to live somewhere new and explore the world in this way. At the time it was hard to fully understand what they meant, but now I do.

Living here has been more than just traveling or checking places off a list. It has been waking up in a beautiful city each day, learning to navigate life in a new culture, and discovering both famous places and small local moments that make a place feel alive. From weekend trips to new cities to simple walks through Florence, every day has been a small reminder of how lucky I am to be here.

There is something humbling about realizing you are living in what will one day be a memory you will carry with you forever.

I feel deeply grateful not only for the places I have seen, but for the opportunity itself. Studying abroad is something I dreamed about for a long time, and getting to live and learn in a place like Italy is something I will never take lightly. I am grateful for the people who helped make this possible and for the chance to experience the world in this way.

This experience has also reminded me how important it is to slow down and be present. Time moves quickly, especially during seasons of life filled with adventure and growth. The best thing I can do is continue to soak it all in. The people, the places, the lessons, and the small everyday moments.

If the first half of this journey has taught me anything, it is that life really does begin at the end of your comfort zone.

As I move into the second half of this experience, my goal is simple. Stay curious. Stay grateful. Keep embracing every moment of this incredible opportunity.

And if time continues to move this quickly, I will do my best to savor every single day.

Con amore,
Liv