beautiful grace: Today has been a wonderful day!

Can I just start off by saying that I cannot find one thing I do not like about Italy! Except for maybe their salads... I have not found a single one that i like yet! Today was my first day of school. Incredible!!! The teacher kept talking about "This painting... well, we will talk more about it when we go see it." Are you kidding me?! This is any art major's dream. This is MY dream.

Besides school, I got lost in Florence by myself. I loved every minute of it. I came across the most fabulous stores:

1. "Bloom" can be described in 3 words. Mamma Mia Fabric! I made friends with Roberto, the head designer. Who knows? When I become a famous Interior Designer he can be my Italian fabric contact.

2. "Roberto Cavalli"- wait for it- CAFE! yes, another cappacino and cream-filled coissant. Perfection. The doors inside were covered in sting ray skin (we asked :) ). The stools were upholstered with cowhide. And not to mention the incredibly good-looking server. (I'm convinced that he is a Roberto Cavalli model in training) I'll be looking for you, mister HOTT CAPPACINO SERVER in the next Cavalli adds!!!

3. This store, by far, has stolen my heart. "Infinity" has the most incredible leather bags, belts, bracelets, wallets, and so much more! First of all, Tao (the sweetest Italian I have yet to meet) let me use his bathroom (Sold!) He knew the way to my heart, or should I say WALLET? Once I started talking to him and asking him about his leather- he took us back to his family's workshop. (and once again... Incredible!) He explained the different 3 different layers of leather: The first layer being the most valuable, third being the least. Then the thread: 3 types least to greatest: cotton, nylon, and then nylon with cotton surrounding it. Of course, he uses the best. Neadless to say, I bought 1 bag for me and another bag that they are doing for me CUSTOM MADE for a special someone! I picked out the style, the leather(s) and the hardwear that will be on it. Eugenio (now he may be the lead for the sweetest Italian I have ever met) has promised me that he will have it done in 3 weeks before I leave! He ordered to parts already tonight. I cannot wait to see it. I think I may be done shopping. But it was so worth it!