We made it!

Arrived at DaVinci Airport. No explaining necessary at customs — they didn't ask a single question about anything. We met Matt Doll, the director of the program, as well as one of the art professors. We then got on a bus for an hour and forty-five minutes, which brought us to Orvieto. We then had to haul our luggage up a few cobble-stone streets to the monastery.

There are active nuns (though we haven't seen any) and yes, there is a monastery cat. Our room has the most amazing view of the surrounding hilly landscape as well as the rest of the town below.

We unpacked and organized everything, went to orientation meetings and then proceeded to a "light" lunch at Locando del Lupo (the contracted restaurant for our stay). Great bread, pasta and a stuffed turkey dish. After lunch we took a brief walk around town, familiarizing ourselves with all the landmarks. We got to see the duomo, which is in the middle of a large piazza.

There appear to be many places to get lost in, including numerous small shops, gelaterias and cafes.

We can't wait to explore it all . . .