Nothing like a trek to the top of the top of Brunelleschi’s dome in Florence
I’m an American expat living in Italy!
Welcome to ItalyWise! I launched this blog a year and a half after having made the big leap to leave the security of a very good life and job in California, and begin living in Italy as a resident.
Wow, what a journey it has been. At times I would call it a metaphorical amusement part ride, with lots of twists and turns. Many other times I’ve felt my super-achiever personality and my over active brain settling down and experiencing a spaciousness that I hadn’t experienced in my rich, but very busy life (packed to the gills with non-stopping doing) back in the U.S. I love adventure. I love it when the universe throws in the unexpected so as to “mix things up”. If there is anything I’ve learned in this process, it’s that you research, make your plans, execute your plan to the best of your ability, but then you’d best let go, and let life happen.
I congratulate you if you’re contemplating a move, a long-term stay, or a sabbatical to Italy. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. However, I encourage you to bring a healthy dose of patience and flexibility in navigating a way of life and a culture that is significantly different from American culture – and many other cultures. Italian red tape and bureaucracy can be daunting. So, practice deep breathing and relax your expectations of things happening expeditiously, and with predictability.
While I have enjoyed a successful career in the creative side of marketing, my primary focus is now on my painting, photography and writing. This blog has been a joy to create, as it combines all of these passions.
I hope you’ll find this blog rich with content. I hope it will be helpful and informative, while also being enjoyable. I write of many of the practicalities (language, driving license, stay permit, etc.), and I also share much of my artistic journey. Lastly, I often share some of my philosophical musings that have accompanied starting a new life.
This is just one person’s story. Each one of us is an artist creating a unique picture of a meaningful life. If Italy, is part of your vision, then I hope I help inspire you further as you paint your future.
If you do enjoy this blog, I encourage you to subscribe in the column to the right (if you’re on your mobile device, it may be at the bottom of the page), so you can receive notice of each new blog post.
Enjoy!
Jed