Happy Tears

Today I am brought to tears...HAPPY tears that is!!  The two main teachers that I will be working with, Virginia and Valeria, have been showing me so much kindness that I am just at a loss for words.  They have been so welcoming and encouraging already.  They have been patient with my questions and have continuously offered words of comfort.  They mention things before I even ask; they have mentioned numerous times that I will find friends and families to spend time with; both of them have said how excited they are and their students are to welcome me!  I am just speechless at their kindness and hospitality before I have even arrived in the city!  They are both working to help me find housing and arrange transportation to Cosenza and even once I arrive at the train station. I was very worried about the fact that this is the first year that Cosenza has had a Fulbright student and therefore I could not turn to a past Fulbright student for advice, etc.  No need though because these ladies (& a third teacher whom I have not spoken with directly, but who I hear is also excited to meet me) have been simply amazing!

This brings me to a few things I have to say:

1. GOD IS SO GOOD! He knows my needs and He meets them!  I KNOW that He is facilitating this!  I have been praying about these things for months now, and He is already answering those prayers.  I prayed for comfort and peace as the time drew close for me to leave, and I am overwhelmed by the sense of peace I've had.  I prayed (am praying) for warm and welcoming people and ta-da...I think  I've found them (and this is only the tip of the iceberg)! 

2.  I am still going to be so sad on Sunday when I have to go through security, and I KNOW there will be days when I just want my momma, daddy, friends, animals, home, etc. etc., but what a GREAT way to be welcomed into my new home of Cosenza.  They are making it very easy to be equally EXCITED and SAD.  Though this weekend I have a feeling sadness will win out, I am beginning to feel confident about the fact that happiness, joy, fun, and excitement will soon follow (I'm sure after a good night's sleep after 24 hours of traveling)!

3.  I LOVE MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS!!  My mailbox has been full of fun surprises lately, and I hear that more are arriving soon!  This makes me smile and I'm so excited!  Also, I want to send/receive letters & things while I am in Italy also.  That being said, I will send my mailing address to anyone who requests (once I have a permanent residence).  Facebook me, email me, or comment here and we'll get it together.  I LOVE to write letters and I think this is the PERFECT opportunity for me to do this with my friends and family!

OH MY GOSH...I'M MOVING TO ITALY!