Preparing, packing and prepping // 5 days: Arrivederci, America. Ciao, Firenze. Bonjour, Paris.

Thankfully my partner in crime was able share our first experience of Stella while waiting for my "delayed flight that wasn't delayed".

I can always count on this gem.

Meet my roommates.

Watching my father pull my pink, white and brown giraffe print luggage through the airport was quite amusing for my mother and myself. One of the many reasons why I love him so much.

Do I look eager?

After saying goodbyes and making it through security I made a mad dash for my gate as I heard them announcing my original flight was available.

With a three hour delay in the Chicago airport... Well...

What else would I do? Drink, eat and people watch.

And yes, I enjoyed drinking and people watching alone.

My flight to Germany finally began boarding when I quickly found out I was in the very tail end of the plane...

As in 'right by the bathroom second to last row' back.

Holy turbulence.. We will leave it at that.

Thankfully the airplane shaped crackers helped distract me.

What's up, Frankfurt?

Almost missed my flight....

But instead I arrived safely in Florence.

The Duomo (Florence cathedral) is just as breathtaking as I remember.

And Cafe Giacosa still has my heart.

After a quick shopping trip I was finally able to reunite with Anna at her Florence For Fun office which lead to a wonderful dinner at Aqua Al 2 with both Anna and Ashley.