After two weeks of living at the L’Arche Bologna community, I have met many friendly people and have learned a lot. The core members are really the highlight of my day. I love interacting with them, even with my basic elementary Italian skills. If I can get a smile or a laugh, that is a plus for me because it is a step towards a relationship with them. They are quite the characters and really make this place a lively home. The assistants have been super helpful and supportive. I appreciate them teaching us Italian and teaching us about their lifestyle. Some have gone out of their way to include us in activities outside of the community and show us what Italy has to offer which has been so kind. The volunteers, too, have taken us in and have showed us the ropes. They have eased our worries because they have talked about their first few months here and how it gets easier with the language barrier. I will say the one thing that has been the biggest challenge is the language. I wish I had prepared more, but what better way to learn a language than immersion, right? I am learning as I go and that is just fine. I am truly thankful for Julia and how we are going through this experience together. She is my adventure buddy and I am so so glad she is here with me. Overall, it has been two weeks of learning, adjusting to this culture and schedule. However, wherever I turn there is someone who is there to help me. I feel welcomed into their home, now I just need to absorb some Italian words!