iliveinaconvent

eturne1@luc.edu — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 21:04:53 GMT

one more day!!! then I'm home! actually, I'll still have about 12 hours of traveling after tomorrow. good god. and i'm not flying into memphis. i'm getting into little rock, and my parents are picking me up. it ended up being cheaper that way...?

i'm not really sad about leaving...the friends i made here I'll be able to see again somewhat soon, and i never really made a connection with the city of rome. but it will be upsetting not being able to explore foreign cities all the time. i guess i'll settle for franklin, TN or tuscaloosa, AL.

i'm avoiding studying for my final which is tomorrow at 9am. whatevs. hopefully it won't be too tough.

next semester's schedule looks good:
    modern art
    history: evolution of western ideas
    ceramics
    color photo
    anthro: globalization and local cultures

and I heard good things about all of the professors.

see everyone soooon!

eturne1@luc.edu — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 09:39:13 GMT

2 finals and a paper to go.

Trying to get to venice for a night tomorrow night. Not sure if that's gonna happen.

Already packing cuz I'm gettin' excited to come home.

Got the job at the zoo, but I'm not sure if I want to work there AGAIN. They'd be paying me a decent wage though. Maybe I'll still do some job hunting when I get back.

Dave's going to come visit in the middle of May. whoo! I'm already planning out my Magical Memphis Tour.

who wants to write my paper on Vittorio De Sica for 20 euro?

eturne1@luc.edu — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 16:59:37 GMT

So I've been sick pretty much the whole weekend. But I'm feeling a bit better. apparently Italy doesn't have the equivalent to dayquil/nightquil. boo. So i had to buy this weird throat spray with a thing that looks like an antennae that I have to put in my mouth to spray. Very powerful and minty.

That's another reason why living with 200 other people so closely sucks. You can't avoid getting sick at least once.

But will this cold stop me from going out tonight to celebrate st. paddy's day? there are plenty of irish-themed bars in rome, so we won't have a problem finding a place to shamelessly get drunk.

Did I mention that Lauren, Emily and I were invited to this Critical Mass (I couldn't believe that they had that here in Rome) "party" the other night? It was more along the lines of a get together with cheap red wine and cheese puffs. But it was nice doing something less typical for Americans studying in Rome, and we hung out with some friendly 40 year old men. I had grappa for the first time, and they bought us gelato. nice.

I might go to Amsterdam with my parents this weekend, and I've wanted to go there ever since my mom went there a few years ago. It'll be nice to relax and see the city, maybe smoke a bowl with the old 'rents, you know, the typical deal.

ok. dinner time. probably will be larvae-shaped pasta, with a side of flavorless spinach, and stale potatoes.

eturne1@luc.edu — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:20:50 GMT

So I'm pretty much done with all my big trips. I'll just go to Cinqueterre when my parents come, and maybe some other Italian town. I can't afford to go anywhere else. The fucking dollar needs to increase in value, dammit.

I was thinking about going to London with Paulette, but it's probably the most expensive city to visit. I've actually started looking into couch surfing. There's a website that connects people that want to crash on people's couches for practically nothing in return. but the thought of showering in some stranger's home is really bizarre to me.

So I dropped my topography of rome class today because it was too much to handle, and I was only taking it as an elective. I got my midterm back from the professor, and my failing grade basically determined my decision to drop. That, and the fact that we had to pay 11 euro to get into an exhibit for class. Fuck that shit.

eturne1@luc.edu — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 14:51:49 GMT

in ireland. more updates later.

eturne1@luc.edu — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 21:30:45 GMT

ok. the job/internship hunt is on. I've been contacting people from craig's list (but can you really trust that website?) and other job hunting-related sites. we'll see how this goes. anyone know of any design-related jobs?? I don't want to end up working at the exxon near my house.

Midterms can kiss my ass. I got a semi-shitty critique in sculpture today...but I deserved it because I am NOT taking that class seriously. Then again, I should try and impress the man I'm in love with (the professor...Roberto...). Topography exam was god awful, but it's over. Now it's just Italian and film, which shouldn't be too difficult.

My calcio team, LIME GREEN, won tonight, which is a plus, and I assisted in a goal in the last minute. Nice. Maybe next time I'll actually score a goal. I felt like I was going to vomit because I had only eaten 30 minutes before and I was fucking tired of running around the damn field.

Ireland in 2 days. Finally. Gonna drink, gonna relax, gonna speak English, gonna drink some more, and gonna kiss the Blarney Stone.

I'm wondering if I'm writing this in vain. Does anyone really read this? and if so, do you give a damn?

update: my pants don't fit anymore. Not a good feeling.

eturne1@luc.edu — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 10:02:53 GMT

alright. back from berlin this weekend. good times. went with Lauren, Emily, and Sarah. Paulette joined up later.
everything was much cheaper than I'd expected, which was great. the hostel only cost 9 euro a night, including breakfast.
Did a shit load of touristy stuff, like a tour about the third reich, the jfk museum, anne frank museum, jewish museum, bauhaus museum, the reichstag parliment building, and probably one I'm forgetting.

ate way too much, as usual, but since everything was pretty cheap, I didn't feel so bad about it. Didn't have as much beer as I thought I would. I did have a wonderful bratwurst though. and german meatballs. damn. I need to stop talking about food.

Didn't really go out Friday night b/c everyone was so tired. Saturday we went to this bar called "slumberland". god. how ridiculous. there was sand on the floor, and an overall tropical theme. We were expecting some kind of crazy crowd, but I think everyone was over 35 and sleepy looking. So we headed around the corner to this pretentious bar with expensive drinks and a (hot) dj. Almost fell asleep at the bar b/c I was so tired from the day.

Next night we went out to eat kind of late, and then paulette and I went to a bar called Kaffe Burger. Odd name that doesn't really fit the mood of the place. I really like the inside of the bar, and they were playing girl groups from the 50s and songs covered in German and French. nice. Left straight from the bar at 4:30 to pick up my stuff at the hostel and catch my flight at 7 am. I think I was still a bit tipsy at the airport.

Budapest was the weekend before, but i'm too tired to write anymore. Let's just say that Hungary is a very strange, yet beautiful country.

Stockholm

eturne1@luc.edu — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 19:50:19 GMT

It's wednesday night, so that means I'm exhausted. Because I had two on-site classes today. One with my super sexxy sculpture teacher (whom I bonded with today by mentioning my knowledge of Manzoni, the artist who sold his own shit in a can). Then another with this dried up squawky lady for Topography of Rome, which is turning into "History of every damn person, place, and thing of Rome".

I'm supposed to go play soccer in a bit, but I don't know if I can gather up enough energy to make a fool of my self in front of my fellow classmates, once again. My bruises from last week are still there.

I went to Stockholm last weekend, and it was really great. I can picture myself there. Of course, we did the touristy things....saw a giant 17th century ship, modern art museum, outdoor historical park, ice bar, and H&M (where I racked up!). The city is really quaint and clean, which I love. And all the Scandinavian beautiful faces.

I had about 2.5 french hot dog while there, and 3/4 of a jar of nutella. and a wonderful meal of roast beef and potatoes (I'm back on red meat and loving it).

Went to a Irish bar with karaoke. everyone was REALLY serious about it. No sloppy drunks up there. Paid 8 euro for a fucking vodka tonic. Had a bubbly blonde lady with a purple corset on who sang "my heart will go on" put her arm around me (?).

This weekend is budapest, which I'm really excited about, but I have no idea what to expect. Can you be excited about something you know nothing about? I'm mostly excited about the cheap prices for EVERYTHING.

Florence

eturne1@luc.edu — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 10:06:06 GMT

Got back from 2 nights in Florence yesterday.
Got about a total of 10 hours of sleep over 3 nights.
I'm pooped.
Saw the David. Hot.
Went to the other important art museum there. Too many sculptures and religious paintings to shake a stick at.
Met some Italians from Siena, a Russian guy, some middle aged Australians, a Mexican, and an Argentinian.
Had pizza about 3 times.
And gelato.
and espresso.
and canoli.
and wine.
and chocolate.
and panini.
the list goes on.
Took loads of photos.
Danced at a trashy bar called the Red Garder. nice.
Tried to sleep on the train back. No use.

Gotta study. Read some Shelley and Keats.

eturne1@luc.edu — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:59:30 GMT

Second week in Rome.
Locked out of my room right now at 1 in the morning.
Walked what seemed like miles and miles in these god awful heels. Damage has been done.
Went to Catholic Mass with everyone from school tonight, then dinner at a restaurant above a club called the Boom Boom Room.
Felt very ashamed to be an American while riding back on the bus while everyone was being REALLY LOUD.
Gonna go to Florence this weekend. Get some culture. Get some food.
Decided not to go with Lauren and Emily to the Irish themed bar tonight. would have been my third time. Sorry, just not really my scene.
Had sculpture class today. I think I'm in love with my professor. He touched my hand today when helping me draw my hand with the right proportions. Things could get inappropriate.....ha. (if anyone is reading this, you know that Lizzie Turner don't play that game).

More "updates" later.

Hope everyone is doing well, and I miss everyone. I also miss the South. Never thought I'd say that really.

eturne1@luc.edu — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 18:02:00 GMT

Been in Rome for about a week now.
Still getting used to using my limited italian.
Living with 200 loyola kids all in one building.
Booking flights to Berlin, Budapest, and Ireland.
Possibly going to Florence, Venice, and Cinqueterre.
Going out to my first Roman bar tonight.
Eating WAY too many carbs and Nutella. and Nutella on carbs.
Drinking espresso.
Went to the ancient village of Assisi, St. Francis' home town.
Walked around Rome.
Lost a pair of my favorite shoes.
Learning about the Italian director DeSica (very attractive).
Sculpting clay. yes indeed.
Looking forward to my on-site architecture class.
Trying to limit my facebook time.
Walking around the neighborhood and avoiding the dog shit on the sidewalks.
Staring at the good looking Italian men.
Gagging at the American guys at school.
More updates later.

eturne1@luc.edu — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 21:40:15 GMT

I don't think I've ever been as frustrated with a piece of equipment as much as I have with this mother fucking view camera that I've had to lug around all day. mind you, in 20 degree weather. and it's overcast today, which doesn't make things any better.

but enough complaining. I'm just trying to keep the end in sight. only about 10 more days, and then I'm home. I'm ready to unwind like I've never unwound before. I'll be in hibernation for approximately 6 days when I get back, so if you need to contact me, don't.

but no, really. i want to see everyone the second I get back. I'm going to cram as much fun as possible within 21 days, so I'll need everyone's help. anyone up for a day trip to either oxford/little rock/tunica/jackson tn/bolivar?? I also want to have a bonfire at the cabin, since that has not taken place there in a very long time.

katherine warren, if you happen to be reading this, I'm going to the Chicago Diner tonight, and it won't be the same without you. I'll have an eggnog milkshake in your honor.

eturne1@luc.edu — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 03:59:35 GMT

visa update: The Italian consulate called today and said part of my application was incomplete. SHIT!! Now I have to run down there tomorrow morning and try and straighten things out. please please please let me get my visa on time.

eturne1@luc.edu — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 17:14:22 GMT

well, this is the first time I can say that the song "these boots are made for walkin'" is the basis for one of my finals. I get to animate whatever the hell I want to the beat of it for computer graphics 2. OR....I could do van halen? or radiohead. hmmm....my professor gave a really bizarre list of choices.

This weekend i've got two shows lined up: Robert Pollard ($20 ....worth it?) and THE KING KHAN AND BBQ SHOW!!! I cannot wait.

eturne1@luc.edu — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 02:08:10 GMT

'tis the season for looking forward to next semester.next semester's classes:
Italian 2
Intro to Poetry: poems about Italy
Sculpture 1
History of Architecture of Rome
Italian film genre

and the best part is that I scheduled them to not have class on Mondays!

So I went to the consulate today....they couldn't take my application yet. I didn't have one of the proper forms. HOPEFULLY I'll be able to mail it in on time. the man made it sound like I would have time.

I'm comin' home tomorrow! I can't wait. Lots of good things planned.

I've been eating noodles at least 3 times a day for the past two days. This probably isn't good for me.

SIDE NOTE: the DJ on the radio just said "how 'bout it?" hahahahaha. (refer to previous Lj post)

I think my piano teacher is one of the best professors I've had, and also one of the most intimidating.

how 'bout it?

eturne1@luc.edu — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 01:59:23 GMT

I think I'm going to start greeting people with "how 'bout it?"

This weekend was quite fun with Katherine in town. Lots of good food, good shopping, cold weather, unexpected movies, cheap wine, the holiday train w/ santa, painting in a coffee shop, and unexpected bar hopping.

I feel bad that katherine missed her plane. I guess time got away from us on Sat. night before her plane left at 5:45 am.

Holy god, it's hot in my dorm. the oven's been on a while.

Tomorrow I'm gonna head down to the italian consulate AGAIN. hopefully this time they won't be so backed up so that they can take my application.

Did I mention that I completely bombed my recital on Thursday? not a good feeling. fuck kuhlau's sonatina in C major.

Thanksgiving is coming! the goose is getting fat. please put a penny in the old man's hat. if you haven't got a penny, a half penny will do, if you haven't got a half penny, then god bless you.

Does anyone remember that little children's rhyme? or am I the only one?

eturne1@luc.edu — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 19:51:41 GMT

it's been a while.

make this week end.

I hope I don't have nightmares about my recital on Thurday. Should I have a drink to calm my nerves beforehand?

I just got my passport photos made. oh god. I look like I haven't seen sunlight in 4 months. I guess I'll just slop on more concealer from now on.

I'm excited about Katherine coming this Thursday. Lots of food and beverages to be consumed. I guess I can't really act like a tour guide with her though.

well, it's off to the coffee shop where I'm gonna spend money I don't need to be spending.

eturne1@luc.edu — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 23:10:00 GMT

well. I've been waitlisted for Rome. SHIT. I won't be able to find out if I'm in til Oct 29. Dammit. I really wanted this to happen.

who knows where the hell I'll be next semester.

eturne1@luc.edu — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 16:34:51 GMT

yesterday was something. shit. definitely eye opening.
My first two classes were fine, but then I got to piano, and realized that my former piano teacher for 12 years completely babied me the whole time. my new professor was nice, but very very honest. Granted, I am a little rusty, because I haven't taken a class in over 2 years. but I really need to get my act together because I have to perform at the end of the semester.

THEN, I went in for training for my fucking barista job in the fucking rambler room (Loyola's version of a fast food type place). Lord. I don't know if I can handle it. way too busy. AND I have to wear a fucking hairnet. I know I'm pissing and moaning about nothing, but damn. I don't know if having this job is really worth it.

But on a good note, I did have a somewhat positive critique in my Computer Graphics class today.

alright. no one gives a shit about this.

maybe I should make an effort on updating this thing

eturne1@luc.edu — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 02:57:23 GMT

First full day back in CHICAGO.
Gettin' things sorted out and such.
Probably worrying more than I should.
The weather's perfect. No, really. Perfect.

My roommate seems nice. Not crazy, like previous roommates.
Gonna ride my bike around town this semester.
Gonna eat some left over Thai food tomorrow
Gonna try and start my love life soon. ha.

this week cannot go by any slower

eturne1@luc.edu — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 20:02:58 GMT

Austin, TX this weekend. I can't wait.

Anyone have any suggestions? I've never been before.
And is the public transportation good?

I just found out last night that I'm not in one of my classes for my major (that I thought I had signed up for) and this coming semester is the only time I can take it. shit.

p.s. I now cannot stand large groups of children.

is this really worth it?

eturne1@luc.edu — Sun, 01 Jul 2007 18:06:25 GMT

help! i'm at the admissions desk at the Brooks Museum and I've already screwed shit up.

what made me think that i would like this job? i hate dealing with people and money. i want to vomit. and i'm BORED.

but it pays well...

only 4 hours to go.

Yard Sale !!!!

eturne1@luc.edu — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 21:20:42 GMT

Katherine and I will be having a yard sale tomorrow (Saturday) morning at my house if anyone is interested in stopping by and giving me your money in exchange for some of my crap.

There will also be refreshments sold.
please come.

ask me for directions and such.

ignorance is bliss

eturne1@luc.edu — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 03:57:50 GMT

After Katherine, Jenny, and I discussed livejournal for quite some time last night, I've decided to update a little more often. Of course, I need a life to update on, which is going to be a problem.

Right now my biggest concern is finding a a basket that will fit on my bike.

On a different note, I've learned that being blissfully unaware of things is a good way to be. "What you don't know won't hurt you." I don't want to know everyone's deep dark past, or their opinions on things. I want to keep my naive, positive view of people. I don't want to be cynical. I'm not sure where this is stemming from, but it just recently surfaced.

eturne1@luc.edu — Sat, 12 May 2007 15:55:15 GMT

I'm at a youth hostel. In chicago. where i live. hmmm....

I hung out with a Swede, Colombian, and a Brit last night. There's also a Thai in our room.

Chicago was putting on this thing called "Looptopia" with 1238586093489593 people walking around downtown. lord. too crowded to enjoy anything.

But it's been nice roaming the city by myself with jack shit to care about, except where I'm going to stay for the night. But i got that all sorted out. At first i was going to stay at this really seedy hostel near loyola, but now I'm in the #1 ranked large hostel in the world. cool.

went to oak park the other day. quaint. but too tired to explore much. nice record store though. then yesterday to "manifest", the columbia college art exhibit.

just now getting over a cold.

Gonna maybe hang out w/ that dude today.

la di da. flyin' by the seat of my pants.

gonna go to west virginia in a couple of days. see the sights, paint the town red. eh, more like paint the houses and such.