Configuring my Blog

So I am several weeks before my estimated departure date of September 6th, but I had time, and I started to put together this blog, which I will be using for the duration of my residence in Italy. Right now I am very excited about leaving, yet I have to wait for the Italian consulate in Chicago to finish issuing my student visa before I can purchase a plane ticket. I have been practicing a bit of Italian, but this endeavor will really pick up once Mafy (the Italian girl that my family will host) arrives August 5th. Can't wait to leave!