Nearing 6 o'clock in the evening, I sit in the kitchen with the sun shining in through the open windows, emitting a refreshing breeze. I can hear the noise of the streets, which are packed with tourists viewing the historical landmark that lies in my front yard: Il Duomo di Firenze, a gothic style cathedral built in 1296.

For months I complained about the freezing cold. For months I had to wear layer upon layer of clothing to stay warm. However, in the ten days spent away from my casa di Italia, the place has completely transformed. But more on that later.