Anchored In Home port again, Conclusions

So its been about a month since i returned from Italy and Europe and it was an exciting trip. I learned a lot about myself and about traveling. I met interesting people and was introduced to some very interesting cultures. All in All the trip to europe was well worth it but there are only two places in the world i think i could live. America and probably Germany. So this will be my last posting for a while unless there are any suprise trips in my future which is possible. Until such time as my anchors are raised again Peace out. Signal the Fleet. all men to home....



-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

To Vienna by night train

Berlin has been amazing but i feel the homesickness setting in, so tonight i take an overnight train to vienna and then tuesday morning a plane to milan then a train to florence and then home. Yesterday i went to potsdam and saw the new palace which was cool. then i came back and pretty much packed up and hit the hay. Today i went to the Reichstag and got to go in, it was free which made it awsome. hope all is well at home


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Through the Brandenburg Gates

Well I am now flyin solo here in Europe for a few days and i got to Berlin today at 730 in the morning after a little searching i found my hostel and a computer that has the y and z switched on the keyboard. ick... i paid but could not get into the room till 2 in the afternoon, so i went on the free walking tour and saw the Berlin Wall and a few other things like the lutwaffa headquarters and the best chocolate shop in berlin. Then i went to sleep, got up, got some supper, went to the Riechstag since you can go up for free but the line was too long so i will go back another day. Instead i went down the Unter Den Linden and saw the soviet war memorial and a monumnet to german composers. Tomorrow all museums on the main museum street are open for free at night, so i will go to the Riechstag early then go to the german history museum then all the free ones! we also saw a t.v. tower called the Pope's revenge because it was built after all the crosses were removed from east german churches and the metal on the sphere refelcts a cross of light no matter what the East German Gov. tired. Haha God- 1 Communism- 0 peace


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Dear Ike Today i Spat in the Siene

Ahh Paris the city of Love and Moluin Rouge (which i saw didn't go in though) I have been doing well. Me and Betsy saw Katie in Ireland and that was the best! And then we went to Giant's Causeway which was amazing. We had an interesting time gettin to Ireland. We took a train and ferry to dublin and got in too late to make derry. Then we got to find a hostel but visited a bar. The next day we took a 7am bus to derry and found our hostel, I got a hair cut and walked aroudn the walls. Then we met Katie and cooked supper for her!! The next night we went out then talked a while. Earlier that day we went to Giant's Causeway and boy was it windy. We left derry t 1245 at night after i helped a bleeding guy who had fallen stop bleeding. Then we got to dublin at 4am, no hostel and the bus station didnt open till 6 we sat out in the little wind break for 2 hours. then took a ferry and train back to london where i went for a walk afterwards and betsy went to bed. The next day we went to Buckingham Palace and caught a eurostar (barely caught) to paris. We met up with nikki and went to the Effil Tower which is beautiful at night. We then came back and went to bed. Today we got up and went to mass at Notre Dame which was simply amazing although crowded. We then had a picnic in the park up the street from the hostel. Afterwards we went to Moliun Rouge (Just to take a pic ofthe buiding) then we went to a cemetary and the highest hill in paris!! Tomorrow we take the free walking tour and then betsy and probably nikki if everything works out for her head out to paris. I am berlin bound on tuesday night. here i will mention the breakfast in england. We had eggs and sausage and it was the greatest i have had since veince where i had a ham and cheese omlete. Yumm Yumm Yumm. I will be home a week from this friday i hope everyone is well and i will see you all soon. But for now. Prepare the Fleet. All units FULL SPEED AHEAD!



-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Across the North sea Down the Channel and Across to Erie

Ahh Munich was AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!! I loved the city and there was soo much to see. We went to the Glockenspiel and that was well free so it means decent...(okay not the best but hey) then we went on a walking tour of Munich which was amazing! We saw the opera house the Fraunkircke the beer glass tour and then we went to where hitler did the beer hall putsch. damn hitler. Betsy has been amazing she puts up with my jokes and my sometimes anxious manner. haha this is safe to say since she does not read my blog and wont comment. We then took the next day to go to Dachau which was a sombering experience. Its hard to fathom how humans can be so cruel o their fellow man. More important it stands as a reminder we must never forget what happened. That night we went to the Hauhbronhaus which is the world's most famous beer hall. I had pork with a bread dumpling and a potatoe dumpling, (both the size of my head...well not quite but) and a liter of the Dark beer it was tasty. The next day we went to Nmyphenburg castle and they had three different houses beside the castle and all of them with silver up to your eyes (even the hunting lodge for the misses). Then we went to the english gardens where i had 2 brats and a beer. then we had kareoke at the hostel!!! I sang three songs and even Betsy got up to sing! ( I thought she sounded amazing but she diagrees). The next day we climbed the beer cup church (which had a beer mug thrown from the clock tower and it did not break thus causing a miracle. Then we went to the airport and headed to London, we stayed overnight and today we arrived in dublin. We took a ferry which was fun but we could not make Derry :'( tomorrow we will see Katie. To the folks at hoe i hope all is well. Peace out!


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

To the Fatherland via the Eternal City

hey my friends, and also hi to any of my enemies reading this. We have been on the move and now we are on summer vacation. We spent some time in Follonica on the sea which was amazing and then we went to Orvieto which has some amazing white wine. We saw a symphony conducted by one of hte worlds most famous conductors, and then we left for Rome the Eternal city where we had our last final enroute. The first day we spent wandering the Vatican, me betsy and nikki. Then me betsy and joey went to the spanish steps. That was amazing. The next day i had to do laundry then me adamo courtney and michelle walked to the Coloseumm to join Betsy, Joey Adair, and Lorenzo. We walked around the Ampitheater then got a guide and went in. it was interesing. If i could do it again i would probably go without the guide. then we went to palentine hill and had the second part of the tour. We saw the palace of the emperors and then went to the formum. That was awsome. The next day we went to the papal audience and heard benedict speak that was interesting. the music they played for his entrance was more circusy than regal. That day we went to the Pantheon and then to the trevi fountain and st. peter's in chains. Me and some of the guys went to the pub that night for one last hurrah and on thursday me betsy adamo and courtney went to the Sistene chapel and saw all the stuff there. Then me, ashley and nikki went on the scavi tour and Peter's tomb was amazing, the prince of the apostles was buried in a humble hole but that was a powerful statement. Then me and betsy headed out to munich after stopping by the church of the skulls which was awsome. We boarded our night train and now i am sitting in a hotel lobby in Munich with little sleep and a walking tour ahead since we can not get into the room until 1pm. But until next time All units put to sea!


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

oh were am i going i dont know when will i get there I ain't certian

Today is the last day in fiesole, tonight we sleep at by 11 am tomorrow its down to Santa Maria NOvella (Trains Station) and off to Follonica and Orvieto and Rome and then Europe. My feet are gettin that old itch that says its time to be headin out. So i am today listening to songs about headin out. (wanderin star, I'm on my way ect.) I am sure things will be picking up after this. but to the folks at home i hope today is nice and i will see you in about a month. Peace out!



-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

And we can see them now, 28 castles of steel steaming north under darkness with no lights the Fleet was at sea...

Three nights, Four days and it is off to Rome and beyond. We have been having a great time here in florence but as it snows (yeah i knew snow woudl find us) I am gettin the travel itch its time to saddle up board the flagship run up the colors and put to sea. I need to travel and feel the waves beneath my bows. Today is Lorenzo's birthday and we will celebrate in grand style. I hope the folks at home are doing well and i will soon be in closer contact. But for now, All hands to your stations, prepare the fleet. Soon we will begin Exercise Rhine....


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Kingdom Come or 10 Day's Leave.....

We went to cinque terra for betsy's birthday this past weekend and it was awsome!! Betsy did a good job planning and Lorenzo cooked steaks which tasted delicious. We went down to the beach and lorenzo got soaked i waded in a bit and then a few of us went to a big rock like in little mermaid and just chitty chatted on it. It was a fun time. The next day we went on a hike between two of the towns and that night was Betsy's b-day party and we had a blast. The ride back was long but when we got back we had bad news the internet was down, long week until today when it came back up! so i am able to blog and check my mail myself and all. hope all is well at home peace!



-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

T-minus Two weeks and counting....Prepare the fleet for extended operations...

So In two weeks time we are off to Rome via Veronica and Orvieto. I am excited to see the seat of roman power and the seat of papal power. yesterday was good, we went to La Lance for supper and had real pepperoni pizza. Today we were going to the Medici Palace but it was closed alas! So we went to the Chapel of the Princes and the New Sacristy in San Lorenzo. You can see the difference between the Duke's tombs which are monuments to the power of the Medici and then the simplicity of the old generation under Lorenzo the Magnificent. Then we went to see how they made stone constructed tables where they interlocked small pieces of semi precious and other stones to form seamless pictures. it was amazing!!

-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

And From Whitehall, at the Admiralty, a message flashed, Commence Hostilites against Germany...

So today marks a few things. A new week, daylight savings for the folks at home, ours wont hit till march 29th. And there was a baptism today. and also violence in northern ireland and more lies from the italian government.As the economy goes to shit GM says its having problems, like over paid executives and a higher unemployment rate in america we need to look on the brighter side. It was beautiful out today and i wandered up to Monte Cheri and saw where davinic tried his flying machine out which was cool then i walked back down to fiesole and watched starwars on youtube. HOpe al all is well at home


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Pray that its Rainin on sunday

So the last few days have been rainy. and not just a little, we had a thunderstorm and it just poured. We started eating at Etrusca all nights now because of the cigarette butt and response at la reggia. That is good and bad hopefully etrusca will serve some new types of pasta. Today we went to a palace of the 13th century and got to see the upper levels that was cool. I even saw the papal crest, there are a lot of those around. hmmmm, We are going to have most of our finals before we even hit rome which is new. Hope all is well at home




-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Off we go into the Wild Blue Yonder....If you'd LIve to be a grey haired wonder keep your nose out of the blue.

We left for interlaken switzerland Thursday. The bus ride was 8 hours which while long was alright It was no DC ride but sleep was hard to come by, We arrived at the Funny Farm hostel, (always knew i was destined for the funny farm. We were up at 7 30 on friday morning to go skydiving, I was 30 euro short but a friend helped out and i will pay them back soon. We got out to the field and they made us sign our life away. I already have sold my soul to the Nursing home so this was not a new thing we got our own skydiving instructions, and the comferting thought that if we fail we would be dead and would not have to worry about long hospital stays, just a dirt nap. Ashley and I went with strangers since there were two singles and when it came time for my turn i suited up in a blue jump suit and headed out to the bus to take us to the launch pad. We went by helicopter. I was on the video with this girl and she had some nice words for her family. my final words if i were to have died: SAM you are skydiving with me!!!!! Hahahahaha sam will be most unnerved, but i ended up jumping first. we got into the chopper and i had the Mash theme playing in my head the whole time, for those who do not know the lyrics:

Through early morning fog I see
visions of the things to be
the pains that are withheld for me
I realize and I can see...
[REFRAIN]:
that suicide is painless
It brings on many changes
and I can take or leave it if I please.
I try to find a way to make
all our little joys relate
without that ever-present hate
but now I know that it's too late, and...
[REFRAIN]
The game of life is hard to play
I'm gonna lose it anyway
The losing card I'll someday lay
so this is all I have to say.
[REFRAIN]
The only way to win is cheat
And lay it down before I'm beat
and to another give my seat
for that's the only painless feat.
[REFRAIN]
The sword of time will pierce our skins
It doesn't hurt when it begins
But as it works its way on in
The pain grows stronger...watch it grin, but...
[REFRAIN]
A brave man once requested me
to answer questions that are key
is it to be or not to be
and I replied 'oh why ask me?'
[REFRAIN]
'Cause suicide is painless
it brings on many changes
and I can take or leave it if I please.
...and you can do the same thing if you please

We had a red chopper which had aclosable door, my tandem jumper was Mike who is apparenllty a police man in his spare time. I was first out of the helicopter so we moved foward and opened the door, The most nerve wracking part was waiting for the jump into open space. Mike asks: Are you ready? I said not really but lets do it anyway and then we were in free fall. We went from 0-180mph in 45 seconds. Mike pulled the chute and the parachute opened up then we fell down to the ground spinning and enjoying the scenery. We landed on our butts and it was the most amazing experience of my life. That night we went to hooters, i had a chicken sandwich, it was pretty good, could have been spiceyer. Then thenext day we wanderd the city for a while and tried some beer pong, ( i was not very good) And sunday me and betsy went to mass in German then we left for a walk and saw a castle and a cemetary aroudn the lakes. We returned in time for some chocolate and then boarding the bus. We returned to florence at 2330 and then back to fiesole by 0100. Awsome.
-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Waters soaked in oil...

Feburary 24th, 2009
We headed out to Marti Gras which was amazing!!! We saw floats that towered over us and had singing and dancing, me betsy and ania each had a beer. which was another nice addition. I saw darth vader wandering around, but since my lightsaber was at home i could not destroy him... Me and Ashley ended up heading home before Ania Allyson and Betsy since we were tired and such. The train ride was nice. Me and Betsy, Later joined by Ania ran into the Mediterranian Sea cold but refreshing.

Wedensday, Feburary 25th in the Year of our Lord 2009

Today was more of a relax day. I went to class, then when class was over i sat here messin around on the computer then we went to the ash wedensday procession which was a fun time, we marched with the bishop and then went into the cathedral. Afterwards instead of walking back to villa bonelli and or walking up to la reggia we decided to go to JJ's well, 4 of us and we had some beer played darts. then we went up to the resturant and while there the table i was at got a water bottle with a cigarette butt in it. I tasted some of it, ICKY tomorrow we are off to Switzerland.


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

For those on Eternal Patrol....

Today we talked about a lot in italian politics and global issues and after reading some articles i am reminded just how lucky i am to be here. And of all those who gave their lives that i might see a better world. The sun was beautiful out and after watching the kids from Vanderbilt who were loud and obnoxious, (which says alot since our group gets loud some times too) just how we behave in foreign countries reflects on everyone. Please be repectful. but anyway, this bolg is to those who have given their lives in the name of peace. We will remeber, We do not forget


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Sunlit seas and 007

Hey y'all today was beautiful and i went walking around after church and a nap. I wanted to take pictures of the cemetary since it closed at 1pm, dang them. I did play harmonica for a bit and read a few different passages. Productive day. We watched Casino Royale and i got a chance to talk to my mother and my sister. Food was good. We have been enjoying italy and just hangin out. Talk to you later!



-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

What do you do with a drunken sailor

Today was a rest day for me, Joey and most of the people went to Bolognia and I took the day to clean and work on my laundry. It is beautiful out so i have my windows out and its wonderful, although i lost one of my address sheets so i will have to call mom and fix that. But its about 4 pm and i probably have laundry that needs work. I dont know what i am doing tonight, probably going out but i know i will hunt supper around 7pm. The door to villa bonelli is broken and i did not know so i was trying to open it for about 5 minutes, then we figured out the door was broken, silly me. Hope all is well at home.

-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

All hands before the mast

So today we were in San Giminiano, (I spelled that wrong i think :S) And it was a blast, i picked up some good white wine and the church had frescos that depicted the new and old testement. One of the churches had been converted to a wine store. and Afterwards we climbed to the fort and i met these very nice girls. We then went and bought our wine. And hopped on the bus. When we got back to fiesole we went up to our hotel then to la reggia for supper and after supper me, ashley, ania, bob and dr. fox went to another place and had wine and lemon chelo and dessert and talked for 2 hours. It was amazing. We will be in switzerland next weekend. Fun times, and a happy birthday early to my friend Ashley Pecholt!!!!!




-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Take cover young soldier take cover for your life.

Hey everyone, so Today we went to the Old Palace which was the seat of Medici power. It was a venerable monument to Affluence. I looked at tickets for Marsielle and no luck too much travel for too little time. I got my JJ shirt this week. All hail to me yeah. We got to see the apartments of Pope Leo X and Clements VII both Medicis. Such power from such a small palace. There were secret rooms we got to see and those were amazing. I can see why people liked having them they are totally cool. I want some. Monday was snowy, and somewhat long but tuesday was a fun day. And today went well. Tomorrow we'll see how the test went in Art.....(omminous music plays). Hopefully all is well. Friday we are off to San Giminiano which is famous for white wine. I am going to be in heaven. Hope all is going well at home. Peace out

-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

The Panama Canal.....and DOD

So I spent this weekend in venice where among other things i managed to spend 3 euro on a liter and a half bottle of white wine, this shoudl last for quite a while and is amazing wine. We went on a gondola ride which was amazing. Me and the guys all smoked cigars a rare occurance. We saw St. Mark's square took a ferry to this little camping area that was simply amazing and cheap. food was a bit spendy since i was tourist season with Carnivale and all that but we managed. The first day we wandered around kind of lost and when we got to the camp ground we were ready to eat and then hit the rack. We had little cabin type things and they were very nice. the next day we wandered around venice. picked up mask for carnivale and the wiine, along with just going around and looking at the city. we split into two groups and 7 of us went on the gondola and the other 3 went to wander around a bit more. Now we are back for midterms. the last one for me this week. Of course the last hour of DOD (Day of Depression a.k.a. Valentines day) was spent in the eldon tradition of being tired and just ready for the day to be done. With all the kissing and such at bridges it was needless to say, a dry night on the kissing side for Eldon and like all but one valentine's day spent waiting for the 15th no valentines this year but there is always net year ;) peace yall




-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Execute paragraph 11.

Midterms, the cold waters of the northsea are like a picnic compared to this time of year. We have been studying like rabid squirels and pouring over art and other such tests. I did alright on my history mid term i think. My language well, we'll see how that one turns out. We went to la reggia last night and then back to a powerpoint made by the most capable ashley and allyson. After the power point we studied for a bit and i went to bed since it was to be an early morning. We went to Uffizzi this morning and o my lord was it large. we did not see everything but i saw some cool busts including one of Julius Ceaser and Leo X (the First Medici pope) as well as a copy of a portrait of Julius II the warrior pope. totally awsome Along with some of the maistras we are studying in class among other things. We have a big test today and i am studying for it then venice for the weekend. and tonight i drown myself in a sea of alcohol. well maybe not that much but we are all celebrating the end of the art final. and i just won darts hail to me. Peace out


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

The north sea is a viscious rain drenched sea

SO today it is raining agian but we are going down for skydiving tickets. in two weeks i will be screaming out of a plane strapped to some swiss man. (no doubt i will yell something manly). I got a letter from ashley and my grandmother and aunt. it was an exiting day. We dont get supper tonight but there is talk of supper at the bar. The have buffalo wings, that would be amazing! The chamber singers will be in Marseilles next week and i am going to hope a train to go see the people from school. Well that is all for now. Peace


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

There and Back again, on holiday with Eldon

So our political science class was cancelled. So i had a free day today and decided to do something crazy, If you are thinking that I walked to rome and back you are off by a couple hundred miles. But i did walk to Florence and back from Fiesole. This was an interesting adventure because i took the wrong road down which ment i came out in another part of florence but by following bus signs i made it to a central place called Le Cure where i had been before and managed to make it to San Maria Novella. There i took a pit stop and then went to the McDonalds because i was famished. After fueling up i wandered into Edison book store to find myself a cook book. I saw a few good ones but will wait till later to find what i am looking for. Then i wandered down by Santa Croche and the Arno. Following this journey it was about 2:3opm so i went to the Duomo and rested a bit, then back to the station for a pit stop and back up the hill. The way up was quite a work out and now that i am back in villa bonelli i will need to go shower soon. however. i did walk up faster than when i walked down. no doubt due to taking the right road this time. It was a thrilling day. Yesterday we went to the Fiorentina Lazzio game which was intense. all the Lazzio fans were sitting in a caged area chanting things that i can only assume were not very nice. but the Fiorentina fans responded with a multitude of gestures that were the equivlent of the middle finger. Fiorentina won 1-0 and that was cause for celebration. the Lazzio fans could not leave until all the rest of the stadium was empty. (for their saftey). When the Fiorentina scored all the fans ran up to the cage to taunt lazzio. it was incredible.

-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Gloria! Gloria! In Exclesis Deio.

So me and Betsy went to mass today in the Cathedral in Fiesole. It was an exciting time since there was singing, (i recognized one of the songs) and we had mass books so we could sort of follow along. Betsy did better than i did but its cool. I am working on a special suprise for people in the secret recess of my mind. we will see how that turns out. Today we are going to see a soccer game. I hope i am wearing appropriate attire although if i get my butt kicked i guess i wasn't. Its raining again but not hard and i hope the rain subsides by 1pm. Most of the Guys are stilll asleep. I spent yesterday wandering around Fiesole a bit. I walked into what i thought was a park and some guy opened his window and just stared at me so i left in a hurry. (I hope i was not trespassing. but i did nto see any signs.) I contiuned toward the caves of davinci but decided that was a trip for another day. We went to Etrusca last night and had a blast. It is so amazing here in Fiesole. There is talk of Pisa one of these days but we have a few midterms this week....blah. but it will all be good. Once again Peace out my compatriots.



-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

and the Seas rose in fury at the slaugther of the Teleri

Okay so we went to Siena yesterday and I got to see more dead people which is incredibally Amazing!!! Incorruptable is awsome. We saw some really cool churches and i got a picture with John Paul II. See if you can figure out how........ It rained most of the day. Althougth we went and ate at a cool pizza place. which was delicious. We talked about golfing with BOb at supper and it sounds like it is about 25 euro to put your name in the lottery at St. Andrews to play on the old course. the whole rental is cheaper than most american courses. So I might have to check that out. Overall the trip is amazing so far. There are tons of cathedrals and i saw the best pulpit ever yesterday. All Hail Italia! More rain today and tomorrow soccer.



-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Full Steam A Head!

So last night we went out for Jill's bday and me and jill and bailey sang piano man:) i love singing. I also had the unforunate occurenc of sitting on a chocolate bar for 4 hours and when i got up and saw the chocolate on the sheet i had to ask joey if I had chocolate on the butt region of my pants. I did. so my pants are soaking now and i hope i can get the stain out. I got to talk to Ashley pecholt last night and we are going to be valentines along with our cats. YAY! haha. Today we went down to florence and were able to get tickets to see Florence vs. Latium. It will be exciting that is this sunday. We are goin to pisa saturday. It will be our first adventure without bob. Wish us luck. I also got a letter from Grandma Jeannie. That was amazing!!!!! We have midterms next week except in politics where we will have two more classes and then the final. I discovered Dr. Horrible's Singalong blog thanks to Bethany. It is addicting. Well, despite the rain i am in high spirits.

Peace Out

-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Batten down the Hatches Secure the Main Mast All Eyes into the Gale!

So here we are in Italy and once again stuck inside as rain pounds on the windows of Villa Bonelli. Of course it has to rain. always raining. But my spirits are up. We celebrated two birthdays last night and will be celebrating again tonight. We get to go to seina on friday and even if it rains i will have fun. I got to talk to bethany last night and she was glad to see the rain. Haha, i love my friends. All of them. We keep learning more about italian culture such as the waiters are more mean than in america but so far they have all been nice to us. Classes are going well. Tomorrow i have an extra class because it was moved from monday but just this class. Soon it will be mid terms. I hope all is going well with the folks at home.


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Kyrie Leison

Hey All! So i just got comfirmation from the vatican and me and two friends get to go on a scavi tour which is a tour of the catacombs beneath St Peter's Basilica in april this year. It will be an amazing experience, i will also take this time to say Rest in Peace to my good friends Fern Bickett and Lauretta Schiedt both residents at Sanford Adrian Care Center where i am employed. They will be missed. Yesterday we took a day of relaxing after a fun night. Me and Betsy went to mass at 11am at the franciscan Monestary. That was AWSOME! there was singing and even though it was in italian we did alright. A few of the guys and some of the girls went down town to watch the super bowl. We stayed for the 1st half and got to watch the 100 interception TD return. amazing. I also got to talk to two girls from the united states who are also studyng here. Their names were Kelly and Maria. Kelly is a history major. I had such a good time. Although when we got done at 1/2 time and left there were no buses and it took forever to get a taxi. Last time i am down in Florence after 1am. Anyway, I hope all is well at home.

Peace Out

-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Assisi

So we went to Assisi today which was awsome!!!!! We saw the tomb of St Francis and went into the basilica that the pope had built over it, and got to see the papel throne. It was soo cool. We also saw St. Clair's body and the house where st. francis grew up. There were a ton of shops around and a lot of icons, we went to the castle on the hill and that was awsome. i also found a cool rosary for myself with all these different saint pictures!!!!. When we got back i had an email from student universe........they are a few weeks behind my flight corrections which are getting a little out of hand especially since i am supposed to all them again. kinda hard bein 7 hours ahead. so i have to send the info to mom and dad and hope they can solve it. We have been having an awsome time with the food and everything else. tomorrow we go to Lucca (weather permiting) and that shoudl be fun!








-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Rule Britannia

So the last few days have been a blast. We played presidents and a-holes the last two nights and i dominated at least a little bit haha. its been raining for the last few days and off and on, the kind of days where if i was home would be for pizza and movies. hahah. I miss the peoples at home of course. We went to buy soccer tickets and they would not sell us any because we were not residents of tuscany. the lady was really mean but we were polite. then we got lost blah, finaly got back and then right back to town for mass, then we went to chinese. And came back here to the hotel and just hung out. It has been a pretty good weekend, even though we had a strike friday so we have to go to lucca another day the rain meant it was a blessing in disguies



-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Hail to the Chief!

I had the opprotunity to watch a historic moment yesterday, the inauguration of America's first Black President. Barack Obama. Europeans and others around the world celebrate this historic occasion. It represents a new generation (our parents, taking power) and also restored International confidence in America. Weather you agree or not with his principle you have to admit the man has the ability to draw people together, Uniting the Democratic party after the divisions of the last two election cycles. And a man who is willing to work with everyone in congress to get what is best for the country. he is a president reminisint of Teddy and Franklin Roosevelt aslo he has surrounded himself with talent a good thing for Any American President. My teachers were celebrating here in italy a bit and were so confident that i am proud to be part of this historic election. God Bless America







-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

VICTORY IN THE WEST!

So for those who did and or did not know i was having some trouble with my credit card over here in italy. but today thanks to my dad's quick thinking i have over come these. It has been raining here this week but otherwise things have been very well. All my classes are going well, and my computer is working. A new president was sworn in today and i am on top of the world for the moment. I hope things are going well back in the states!

-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Bob the Great

So we went out to florence today with Dr. Bob Conner who is the director of the study abroad program. Only four of us students went becasue we were the only four up. It was a wonderful walk and Bob knows so much he could probably be the next encyclpedia. Not only that but it took about an hour down to a little chinese resturant for lunch and Guapa. which is an Italian vodka. Then we contiuned our tour of florence. We saw the Cathedral, and the Basilica of San Lorenzo as well as two statues of Cosmo De Medici. (Popular man apparently) And then we took a walk past the Cathedral and into another part of Florence where we saw the Palace of the Medici which was amazing. and statues of Dante and the other greats of Florence as well as across the Arno on the old bridge which was full of gold shops and to the hotel where brother louie stays when he is in Florence. It was a haven of affluence We contiued through the rich stores in town where i saw 1000 euro shoes and couldn't help but wonder who on earth could possibly buy that kind of thing. And who would have that much money to waste. Bob left us with one student at the Cathedral but me Betsy and Ashley stayed to wait for english mass at 5. We got to look in the Cathedral which was vast and soo amazing. Then we people watched for a while and ended up going to mass where i took collection since they asked for help. Mass was cold but once we were on the bus back it was nice and warm. Now that i am back in the hotel i am going to rest tonight and go to bed early. VIVA ITALIA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!





-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

HAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAAHHAHAHAHAHAHA

So We went walking around Florence today and it was nice weather, you know, 60 out sunny with a light breeze, it got hot enough to take my coat off. Yeah we went walking for a couple hours and saw more of the city, And tomorrow we are going to cross the Arno to look at more parts and a beautiful hill. It will once again be sunny and not a windchill in sight. Boy i miss all the freezing cold weather and nasty wind in minnesota. well, okay no i dont but i have to rub it in everyone's faces so once again. HAHAHHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHHAHAHHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAH (deep Breath) BWUAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHHAAHHAAHHAAHAHHAHAHHAAHHAHAHAHA






-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Well, thats one way to keep the dead in the grave

So Betsy and I were out jogging and we went up by the monestary and all around and as we were jogging we saw the cemetary in town so we decided to look through. Very Normal thing to do of course. Well, We fail to read the signs, While we are walking we decide it is time to go and Betsy looks over by the gate and says, wasn't that open when we came in, yep it was however know the Gate was closed and locked. AH Crap. we are locked in a cemetary. Well, after a few minutes of careful observation we managed to climb over the wall and then we noticed the sign that said Closes at 5........ only we would manage that feat. Then i was telling my friend Ashley Pecholt about our adventure in the cemetary and she found it humerous. Here is our converstaion after the story
GardeniaVeitchii (9:00:40 PM): haha!! that is a great story
GardeniaVeitchii (9:00:42 PM): was it late?
Qhcadet (9:00:49 PM): no it was 5 oclcok
GardeniaVeitchii (9:00:55 PM): pm>
Qhcadet (9:01:01 PM): yeah
GardeniaVeitchii (9:01:05 PM): that's great!
GardeniaVeitchii (9:01:11 PM): my roommate liked that story too
Qhcadet (9:01:16 PM): hahahaha
Qhcadet (9:01:31 PM): its definatly not an experience i want to repeat
GardeniaVeitchii (9:01:53 PM): were you creeped out?
Qhcadet (9:02:13 PM): not too much
Qhcadet (9:03:45 PM): i do like cemetaries
GardeniaVeitchii (9:04:46 PM): i think cemetaries are interesting
Qhcadet (9:04:52 PM): they are cool
GardeniaVeitchii (9:05:22 PM): i want to get locked in one sometime
Qhcadet (9:05:30 PM): well, let me know when i will help you
GardeniaVeitchii (9:05:47 PM): okay
Qhcadet (9:05:55 PM): it will be fun
GardeniaVeitchii (9:06:00 PM): it will be!
Qhcadet (9:06:16 PM): ahh i am going to have to add this converstaion to the bolg i am working on
Qhcadet (9:06:18 PM): hehe
-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

On Patrol

So we got to Italy on staturday and sunday we went around florance! It was an exciting time as we walked down to the city. Me, Ashley, Alison and her friend Theresa got separated from the main group when they went to the super market and we just waited for them but then got directions to where we were going and started without them. we met up with a few of them on the way to the Cathedral and had a jolly time taking some side streets to avoid the angry italian and accidentally steping on the pictures on the street. (our bad). Toward the end i had to really use the little boy's room (vaselaar family bladder strikes again) and finaly found one in the train station, it cost .60 euro which was just grand being cheap and all. Then me and Ashley hoped the #7 back to Fiesole and went to take a nap. GLorious. A group of us then went out to JJ Hills and had some drinks then off to bed.

Monday we had class I had Golbal issues and Italian Politics. These classes will be exciting. Then I went into town with Ashley, Betsy, and our other compatriots. After the 99 cents store me Ashley and Betsy set off for the super market with me and Betsy almost getting killed by a motorcycle on the way. Ashley is probably the only one of us with any sense but we managed to live. At the supermarket we got water and wine and other necessities. then took the #7 back to Fiesole again. We went to the Etruscan resturant for spagetti and chicken which was amazing!!!!!!! Then we came back and chitty chatted for a bit then i got to talk to some friends from home and went to bed. ITALY ROCKS!!!! I dont really want to come home any time soon


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Landfall

So I have successfully Landed in Italy!!!!! Huzzah!!!!!!!!! The plane ride was long and somewhat interesting with some turbulance but we did not land in the atlantic and got to frankfurt we then got a Taxi to Villa Bonelli and found our resturant. Small rooms but everything is all good. I already had to fix someone else's toliet but once again, Eldon to the Resuce. and found a butt cleaner whow excting. Missin my friends back home but lovin europe!!!!!

-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Anchors Away Today!

So I fly out today and am headin off to Europe. Thanks again to everyone for the Birthday Wishes and i will add two song quotes because i love songs!

Over the Sea lets go Men, We're shovin right off We're Shovin right off again!
Nobody Knows when or where. We're Shovin right off We're Shovin right off again!
We're Leaving to day! Its Anchors Away! Sally and Sue Dont be Blue! We'll only be gone for years and years and then We'll be Shovin it off for home Shovin it off For Home Shovin it off for home again!

Off we go into the wild blue yonder flying high into the sun!

Here they come ready to meet our thunder att'em boys givem the gun, givem the gun now


-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Loading the Ships

So I get to spend the day today getting ready to depart. Sorting through the stuff to be packed and getting ready for the grand adventure. Alas i will not be visiting SMU before departure and my hop across the pond. I am excited for this trip and am hoping everyone else has a wonderful semester. in order to make this even better i will include my mailing address while in Italy!

Hotel Villa Bonelli
Via F. Poeti,1
50014, Fiesole Firenze
Italia

-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"

Prepare the Fleet for Departure

Hey everyone, I saw a friend do this and thought i would copy them because its a great idea. So on the 9th of this month i am heading out to Italy for a semester abroad. (Pause for the sorrowful tears at my absence you are all crying ;) ) I will keep you as updated as possible (Sam don't yell at me if this isn't up to the minute.) and if you have questions, comments, attacks, flirts or whatever feel free to contact me. I will be over seas from the 9th of January to the 24th of January. DON'T Call me to work. I am too far away.



-Eldon John Vaselaar

"Though all the world stand against you, let hope reign supreme!"