Home at last

We finally made it home from our European adventure. What an tiring day we spent on our return trip. We began our journey home with an early morning pickup from the hotel. And just like the trip from the airport, we were on the edge of our seats as we were driven back to the airport.

I am still in awe of Italian drivers. How in the world do they manage to do so many things while driving? We had the pleasure of being in the back seat while a driver was on his cell phone, smoking, looking at a map, and keeping a hand on the horn the entire trip. Did I mention that we saw very few automatics? Yep, the guy was doing all this while switching gears. I suspect that he may have actually have three or four arms.

We breezed through security at DaVinci, we got to leave our shoes and belts on, and they looked at us funny when we put our camera and other electronic devices in their own bins. No wonder other travelers complain about airport security. None of the airports we went to had the exact same screening process. You would think it would be more universal, but what do I know, I am just a newbee traveler.

Ok so you know how they have some shops and restaurants to keep you occupied while you are waiting for your flights? At DaVinci, there are no shops...they have high end boutiques. Hermes, Gucci, Prada, Armani, just to name a few. I was in shopping nirvana, except it was all a bit above my pay grade. I think I actually began to drool over a couple of pairs of shoes.

We then got to spend nine fun filled hours aboard the Alitalia flight back to Boston.  I didn't think much of the time when it appeared on the video screens. Well that was before I had to sit next to the Russian guy, with no deodorant, and the pea sized bladder.  Can we say major BO? I really think there should be some kind of international law that states if you are flying coach you have to wear deodorant or cologne.  I guess it could have been worse, I could have been between two stinky, sweaty, non-deodorant wearing peeps.

So once we get to the airport in Boston we have to go thru the passport verification process and customs. I keep imagining a nightmarish time, since we were flying on September 11th. Nope, it was really quick and painless, or maybe we were just lucky enough not to be randomly selected for inspection. I again mentally cursed the designers at Boston Logan for putting the domestic and international terminals so far apart, but at least this time I was prepared for the long dash.  Have I mentioned that I am sure my carry-on bag weighed more than my checked bag? I think my biceps became huge lugging that think around.   And we go to go thru security again, what fun!

After an hour or so in Boston we boarded our flight to DC, another two hours of fun. But at least I didn't have to sit next to stinky Russian boy. But man I was hot, tired,  cranky and wanting my own bed.  We collected our bags and called our hotel to come get us from the airport.  I knew that it would take a while, with increased traffic and security...but we waited over an hour. Not to mention that we had to call three times to see if it was still coming. We were not happy campers!  Looking back I am so thankful that we had planned to stay overnight in DC, and didn't try to board another couple of flights back to O-town.  I most likely likely would have been put in jail or arrested. Although that could have been a funny story later, "Hey honey remember when we came home from Italy that one time....when you go thrown in the pokey cuz you slugged a flight attendant? Remember? That was funny."  Go on and laugh, you can picture DH saying that.

We slept in, then did some more shopping. Then it was time to head back to Reagan and fly home. We flew threw Atlanta, and all I can say is holy huge airport! We then arrived back in Omaha at about midnight, and began our final drive.  I was so tired, but also excited too.  We hadn't see our furkids in 11 days. I missed the so much.

I had joked with DH that if the pope offered me a job I would stay in Italy forever. As cool as staying would have been, I was homesick to see my babies. Every time we saw people out walking with their dogs in Roma, for a split second I wanted to be home, snuggling with my little Docker. I was also a little worried that they would have forgotten all about us. I don't know what I was worried about, the greeting we got when we walked in the door was the most amazing part of our journey.  It was so good to be home!

Even though I was happy to be home, I was also feeling home sick for Roma. Odd isn't it? I had just walked in the door, and ready to go back.  I feel so blessed to have had taken this trip, and so glad that DH & I go to spend it together. But I also can't wait to go back.  I think that I have gotten bitten by the travel bug.

Here's to planning the next adventure

Day Eight Roma

Today was our last full day in Italy.  How bitter sweet it feels knowing that we are leaving the eternal city tomorrow morning.

We toured the Galleria Borghese and then spent time walking the grounds of the Villa Borghese.  Looking back I wish that we would have visited this before any of the other museums. They control how many people are in the museum and for how long. It was wonderful not to be walked all over by guided tours.  The tours we did see were lead by staff of the museum.  It was so amazing.  If you have a chance to visit Roma, take the time to at least visit the Villa.  Seeing just the Bernini sculptures alone is worth the price of admission to the Galleria!

Tonight we ate dinner at the restaurant in our hotel. We went all out and had a "fancy dinner".  While we had eaten here a couple of times before out of convienance, tonight it was about spending time together sharing our last meal in Roma.  I can't say enough about our waiter Michele. He went above and beyond for us. When we ate here the other times it was after our day trips, so we were tired, hot and cranky after spending endless hours on a tour bus.  He was so understanding, and didn't seem to mind that we were sharing courses.  Tonight was no exception, he gave us exceptional service as always.  I am going to miss having him tell us hello everytime we came in to the hotel in the evenings.

 our last night in Roma

I am also going to miss the entire staff at Hotel ArtDeco. They have really made us feel at home during our entire stay. From Giovanni who served us breakfast every morning to the staff at the front desk who helped us get from place to place the entire staff couldn't be nicer.  I hope that when we return to Roma we will again be able to stay at Hotel ArtDeco. I would recommend it to anyone traveling to the eternal city.  Grazie mille!

Part of me was so afraid when we left home that I would be home sick and miserable for our entire time in Roma. Another part was afraid that we would never want to leave. Now that it is time to head home, I am sad that we are leaving, but excited to be home with our furkids.  I really think that one could spend an entire lifetime in Roma, and never get bored.  I am going to miss our walks to the Bank-o-mat, our dinners at Ostra del Salvatore, sending DH to the farmicia and simply being on holiday.  It is going to be hard to go back to the real world, but  can't wait to start planning our next trip!

Day Seven Roma

Today found us kicking around Roma relaxing and seeing the sites.  We began our day by going to the Foro Romano.  We had planned to go into the ruins, but the que to get in was very long,  you can also walk around the site and see in for free. Plus we didn't have to pay the entry fee.

Foro Romano

While we were walking around we got to hear the most amazing street band. Fibbico and the Amost Blues. Yep we found a blues street band in the middle of Roma. And they were really good.  I wish we would have shelled out the five euros to get their CD. But what can you do?

at Foro Romano

So the Forum has been under excavation since the 15th century, and is still going strong today. That is so mind blowing. And the really odd thing is that in a few places you can walk right up and touch the ancient walls. In fact  we sat in the shade on some ancient steps going down to the Piazza del Campidoglio.
 Seriously how cool is that?


After the Foro Romano we headed to the Pantheon. What an amazing structure. This was the largest dome from the ancient world. It was built to be a temple to all of the gods of Roma, but was turned into a church in 609 AD. What a feeling to be sitting there in front of the alter and look up. The dome has a huge open sky light.  I wish we had the time to sit there from sunup to sundown to see the way the light shifts and moves across the church.

The rest of the day found us going into a part of the city that we hadn't explored yet. We went to the Piazza Navona to have lunch, do some shopping and people watch. It was by far my favorite part of the city. So beautiful, the entire middle of the piazza is filled with artists, selling their original works. Obviously their works are of the sights of Italy, but may of them are quite good. We were lucky enough to wander around to see the work they had on display.

Detail from Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi
the river god Ganges

For lunch we got a front row seat on the Piazza at Cafe Barocco. What a great place to sit back, enjoy some Roman cuisine and watch people.  It was amazing to see the sheer number of people come by. Of course this is also where the magnificent Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi. What an amazing piece of art.

We also returned to the Spanish Steps this evening after dinner, and enjoyed a typical Roman past time, people watching.  While we were sitting there we discussed how some things are universal. Men still take women on dates to McDonalds. But it is still McDonalds, and this is Roma, home of some of the best cuisine in the world. We decided he must be "classy"! And teenagers are annoying no mater what language they speak.

Oh I have also forgot to mention the number of Man-pri sightings the last few days. I am still blown away by the Man-pri. I am hoping it catches on at home! How awesome would it be to see men in them at Husker games?   We have consistently seen 5 to 6 pairs a day. I keep wondering if that is because it has been so hot while we have been here, or if that is just typical men's wear. But this isn't something I feel comfortable asking the front desk staff.

Oh I almost forgot to post pics of the best 20 euros we could have ever spent!  Everyone that comes to Roma must do this.  It was priceless!

Ahh yeah, Cesar for the day!
It's not a purse it's European

What girl wouldn't want to pose with two Roman soldiers?

I can't believe that tomorrow is our last full day in Roma! We will be visiting the Galleria Borghese museum and the Colosseum.

Day Six Firenze

Day six found us heading north to Firenze (Florence) home of the Medici. This was also our last day trip outside the city of Roma.

Orte Italy 

We began the day by boarding another tour bus for a nice long drive out of the Lazio region, thru Umbria and on to the Tascona region. Again we were on the main highway that links Milano, Roma and Napoli. The secenary was just as beautiful as when we headed south, but we didn't see nearly as many run down areas.  As we passed by each little town nestled upon a hill top I joked with DH, "We could buy a house here!"  I am not sure if he knows I was joking. Ok so I was only half joking! I would love to live in one of these picturesque little villages. But as  DH reminds me, what would I do for work? He may have a point. 

We were able to see some of the most beautiful country side as we traveled. I know understand what the great poets meant when they spoke of the soft light of Italy.  Everything seemed to have a soft glow when the sunlight hit it. This effect was intensified around dusk on our return trip to Roma. The sky was this amazing mix of blues, greys, pinks and golds. It is unfortunate that I wasn't able to catch it on film, but it is a memory that I hold near to my heart.  Maybe someday I will be able to paint the scene, but I know I will never be able to do it justice. 

We arrived in Firenze at about 11 am and were taken as close to the center of town as possible by bus. The city does not allow tour bus into the heart of the city to help cut down pollution. Ours was to be a walking tour. Normally that wouldn't be a big deal, but I am still nursing the sprained ankle. Oh well I just took some more asprina and called it good.  

Our first stop was to a pretty high end leather shop. The description of the tour said that we would be touring a leather school to see how they make leather. Yeah, the shop was going to show us how they emboss the leather. I was not so impressed.  While this shop did have some very nice bags and jackets, the prices were a bit steep.  Lucky for us we had some free time, and I found a different leather shop down the street with much nicer prices.  So I just had to get a new purse. Not so sure DH understands the need for purses and shoes, but he just rolled his eyes and said yes dear it looks nice.  

Detail of Basilica Santa Croce

I can honestly say that Frienze was the most fun that I have had shopping in a while. During lunch on our excursion we met the nicest couple from Canada, Arthur and Loraine. Loraine and I had the best time lagging behind the group and window shopping. Ok truth be told we hit the shops pretty hard, but managed to get back to the group for the major sites.  Jay and Arthur were tasked with making sure we weren't left so far behind that we would have been lost.  I have to say we are both blessed to have such understanding husbands. It also made the day trip a lot more fun. I love my DH, but he isn't one for shopping! 

So between rounds of shopping we were able to see the facade of the beautiful Basilica of Santa Croce. We were not able to tour inside due to time constraints. It houses the tombs of some of Italy's greatest artists, Michelangelo and Machiavelli to name a few. We were also not able to take great photos as they were setting up some sort of enormous stage and seating area in the square. It had to have been some sort of festival or something.  

Detail of Fontana del Nettuno

We also were able to see the outsides of the Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi. I wish that we would have gone on our own so that I could have explored the Uffizi and also seen the Ponte Vecchio. But that will have to be for a future trip. I was able to get a few shots of the replica David that stands in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, where the original once stood.  Good thing to as photographs of the original are not allowed. But there is also an amazing fountain just to the left. Fontana del Nettuno, so far this has been my favorite fountain in Italy. 

So we are walking through city streets and we are taken around this corner...bam! There it is, the Duomo, the Cathedral of Florence. If I didn't know that San Peitro was the largest church in the world, I would have thought this church was. It is simply massive. Even with my widest angle lens there was no way I would have been able to get a photo of the entire church. Well not without running about five blocks away, and there was shopping to be done.  Again we were not able to go into the church, what a bummer! I am guessing that it is amazing on the inside. (The description also made it sound as if we would tour the church and the Baptistery of St John Battistero di San Giovanni)

After standing in awe of the church we then proceeded on to the Galleria del l'Accademia. This little museum is located a few blocks from the Duomo and houses the most famous statue in the world. Michelangelo's David. It is even more magnificent in person than you can imagine. This was one huge block of marble that two other sculptors gave up on. In fact the great DaVinci refused the block. It wasn't until 1501, when a then 26 year old Michelangelo would begin his work.  It took him until 1504 to complete.  I am so thankful that I was able to see this work in person.  I don't know if I can find the words to describe what I felt while looking into the face of David. 

After leaving the museum at around five, we boarded the bus for our return to Roma.  It always seems that the return trip takes longer than getting to a destination.  I hope that holds true the next time we visit Firenze.

Day Six Firenze

Day six found us heading north to Firenze (Florence) home of the Medici. This was also our last day trip outside the city of Roma.  

Orte Italy 

We began the day by boarding another tour bus for a nice long drive out of the Lazio region, thru Umbria and on to the Tascona region. Again we were on the main highway that links Milano, Roma and Napoli. The secenary was just as beautiful as when we headed south, but we didn't see nearly as many run down areas.  As we passed by each little town nestled upon a hill top I joked with DH, "We could buy a house here!"  I am not sure if he knows I was joking. Ok so I was only half joking! I would love to live in one of these picturesque little villages. But as  DH reminds me, what would I do for work? He may have a point. 

We were able to see some of the most beautiful country side as we traveled. I know understand what the great poets meant when they spoke of the soft light of Italy.  Everything seemed to have a soft glow when the sunlight hit it. This effect was intensified around dusk on our return trip to Roma. The sky was this amazing mix of blues, greys, pinks and golds. It is unfortunate that I wasn't able to catch it on film, but it is a memory that I hold near to my heart.  Maybe someday I will be able to paint the scene, but I know I will never be able to do it justice. 

We arrived in Firenze at about 11 am and were taken as close to the center of town as possible by bus. The city does not allow tour bus into the heart of the city to help cut down pollution. Ours was to be a walking tour. Normally that wouldn't be a big deal, but I am still nursing the sprained ankle. Oh well I just took some more asprina and called it good.  

Our first stop was to a pretty high end leather shop. The description of the tour said that we would be touring a leather school to see how they make leather. Yeah, the shop was going to show us how they emboss the leather. I was not so impressed.  While this shop did have some very nice bags and jackets, the prices were a bit steep.  Lucky for us we had some free time, and I found a different leather shop down the street with much nicer prices.  So I just had to get a new purse. Not so sure DH understands the need for purses and shoes, but he just rolled his eyes and said yes dear it looks nice.  

Detail of Basilica Santa Croce

I can honestly say that Frienze was the most fun that I have had shopping in a while. During lunch on our excursion we met the nicest couple from Canada, Arthur and Loraine. Loraine and I had the best time lagging behind the group and window shopping. Ok truth be told we hit the shops pretty hard, but managed to get back to the group for the major sites.  Jay and Arthur were tasked with making sure we weren't left so far behind that we would have been lost.  I have to say we are both blessed to have such understanding husbands. It also made the day trip a lot more fun. I love my DH, but he isn't one for shopping! 

So between rounds of shopping we were able to see the facade of the beautiful Basilica of Santa Croce. We were not able to tour inside due to time constraints. It houses the tombs of some of Italy's greatest artists, Michelangelo and Machiavelli to name a few. We were also not able to take great photos as they were setting up some sort of enormous stage and seating area in the square. It had to have been some sort of festival or something.  

Detail of Fontana del Nettuno

We also were able to see the outsides of the Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi. I wish that we would have gone on our own so that I could have explored the Uffizi and also seen the Ponte Vecchio. But that will have to be for a future trip. I was able to get a few shots of the replica David that stands in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, where the original once stood.  Good thing to as photographs of the original are not allowed. But there is also an amazing fountain just to the left. Fontana del Nettuno, so far this has been my favorite fountain in Italy. 

So we are walking through city streets and we are taken around this corner...bam! There it is, the Cathedral 

         Fontana del Nettuno

Day Five Roma

I can't believe that it is already Day Five of our trip. Where has the time gone?

Last night on our way back to our hotel, my foot got caught in a hole in the sidewalk and I fell flat on my face. The worst part is not that I fell, but that I fell in full view of an outdoor resturante full of people! Yep that is right I have made a complete fool of my self on two continents now! Go me.  So what is a girl to do when she biffs it in front of 30ish people having dinner in Roma? Jump up, throw you hands in the air and yell, "Tada!", followed quickly by "I'm ok. Thanks I am ok."

So now I have a sprained ankle, but not to worry I have had many sprains before. I took some aspirina, went to bed and started fresh this morning. Sounds good right?  Except I didn't pack an ace bandage! I was going to...but figured I wouldn't need it. Funny thing about the entire mishap, I was so sure I would biff it in Pompeii. I never imagined that I would biff it here in Roma.  Oh well it will be a story to tell for years to come. And Jay now knows his way around the Farmacia! 

sitting among the other pilgrims at San Pietro

We headed to San Pietro via taxi in order to get to the square in time to get a decent seat for the papal audienc  Pleasant suprise for us when it only cost 10 Euro. We were not looking forward to walking the four miles from our hotel to the square that early in the morning.  The staff at Vatican City really know how to organize for large events. I have lived thru Husker football, and think UNL could learn a thing or two from Vatican City. It was neat and orderly. And we are not talking about 80,000 rabid Husker lunatics, we are talking about thousands of religious pilgrims from all over the world, speaking different languages. Still Vatican  City handled it with no problems.  We were sitting between a nice couple from Germany, and a nice couple from Eastern Europe.  It was so amazing to me to be sitting there with thousands of other people who also believe in God. I can't even begin to describe the feeling.

we were this close! 

The entire thing had the feeling of a concert or festival. It in no way felt like a religious ceremony. There was a band from South America, there to play for His Holiness. A group of hundreds of faithful from Senegal, in their colorful national dress. Flag throwers from Italy, huge groups from Iowa and Kansas. We heard blessings from His Holiness in Italian, French, English, Spanish and Portugese. It was amazing, and we can now say we have "chilled with the pontif"! LOL 

I am so thankful to the Church of Santa Susanna for the chance to get tickets to the audience. It was an amazing once in a life time opportunity. I also have to say out of all of the churches we have seen since arriving in Italy, Santa Susanna is one of the most beautiful. I don't know if that is because they have been so kind or if it is just because I love Baroque Art. If you ever get a chance to visit Roma, don't forget to stop at this "little church" on the Via XX Septtembre.

Papal Gentleman and Police Officer

So not only did we get to see the Pope, we also got to see more Swiss guards in full dress uniform. And we had the opportunity to see the Papal Gentlemen, who are the lay attendants of his Holiness. Of course I had seen a documentary that showed their role at Vatican City, so it was especially nice to see them this morning.

Swiss Guard 

After our blessing from His Holiness, we headed to the Musei Vaticani. We had purchased our tickets on line before we left home so that we could avoid the long lines.  When we were approaching the entrance, we were told by several tour operators that it would be a 2 to 3 hour wait in the que. I can't believe more people do not purchase online! It was quick and rather painless.  I once again didn't take many pictures of the artwork.

I had thought that the return trip from Pompeii was part of the circle of hell from Dante's Inferno...umm no that was just the warm up for swarms of people all pushing and shoving inside the Musei. And remember we are in Europe, so no aircon and men don't always wear Degree. Can we say smelly locker room?  At least they throw open all the windows and have fans going.

at Musei Vaticani with the garden behind us

I was amazed by the artwork we saw. DaVinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Van Gough, Rodin....the list could go on and on.   I was most disappointed as much of the Musei was closed. Two of the galleries that I most wanted to see were off limits. The Gallery of the Statues and the Braccio Nuovo.  I guess we will just have to make a return trip to Roma!  I also wish that they would limit the number of pushy tour guides they let in at once.  I can't tell you how many times, I was shoved into and told "You can't stop here!" Umm hello, I am admiring some of the finest masterpieces in the world....not my fault you don't think it is interesting enough to tell your group about.  It was very annoying. In fact the group tours made it impossible to enjoy the Capella Sistina. I have to rant for a moment, hello you morons, the signs all say not photography! they do that for a reason, not just to get you to buy stuff. Every time you set off your flashes, you are ruining the chance of future generations seeing this amazing work of art. Oh and don't get all uppity tourist when you get caught and escorted out. Pleading ignorance is no excuse....the signs are in almost every language under the sun! Rant over.

After what felt like days we finally made it out alive. I can honestly say that to truly admire and appreciate all of the works would take a life time. Thank you to the staff at Musei Vaticani for putting up with as many as 15,000 visitors a day.

Tomorrow we head out on our last day trip from Roma.  We head north this time to Firenze and the home of the Medici. My advisor at Doane is sure that I will like Firenze better than Roma...I don't know, I feel at home here in the Eternal City. But we shall see what adventures await! 

Day Four Roma

Today our plan was to catch one of the many hop-on hop-off tours and take a ride. Well things didn't go exactly according to plan, but we still had fun.

DH enjoying the Hop-on tour

We began our day by walking to Piazza Barberini to catch the tour bus.  On the way we again went by Santa Maria della Vittoria, where the The Ecstasy of St Theresa statue by Gian Lorenzo Bernini is housed.  It is right across the street from Santa Susanna, but we totally missed that on Sunday. We were going to go in, but I was in a tank top and didn't have anything to cover my shoulders with me. Oh well we will be back in that area again as it is only about a mile from our hotel.  We made it Barberini and hopped the bus.

We were doing great on the bus...until we came upon a demonstration that stopped traffic dead in it's tracks. The metro had shut down due to a strike. Thank goodness we didn't get the three day metro pass!  So our entire bus clears out, except DH & I.And some nice British ladies. We were told that it would be about two hours before the bus would move again. The young lady that works for the tour company advised us to visit a nearby church as it would be cooler than sitting on the bus. We had just made it up the first group of stairils to the church, when she came running to find us. The bus was cleared to go again.  It was really nice of her to let us know. When we got back on the bus we were able to get the best seats on the bus. Right at the front of the upper deck.  We kept these seats until we were forced to switch buses at St Peters Square. Have I mentioned that the metro was closed today? That means everyone in Roma that normally take the Metro, were out on the streets on their scooters or in their cars.  I have no idea how the bus drivers do it, but somehow they navigate traffic. After living through traffic in Roma, I will never complain about traffic at home again.

Roman Traffic

At this point we knew that we would have to wait at least 15 minutes for the next bus to arrive, so we decided to eat at the Cafe San Pietro. Epic fail! Oh we got lunch alright, for 52 Euros. To top it all off, it wasn't even that good!  Well we knew we needed to walk it off, so we decided we would go ahead and tour Basilica di San Pietro.   Even though we are going to be there tomorrow morning anyway.

We began to walk into the square and I was overwhelmed. I was walking into the square that Bernini designed! What an odd feeling, admiration for the work of a great artist, and a little buzz from being so close to the Holy Father.

As we walked to the square we were of course hounded by the street vendors that are almost everywhere in Roma. Do you need a map? Do you need a scarf? Do you need a guide book? Do you need an umbrella? Do you need? Do you need?  They can be very pushy. In fact they like to put the items right in your hands. I have to admit it is a brilliant selling strategy, but we have learned to say Grazie, NON!  They were even trying to convince people that the line into the Basilica was to long. You don't have to wait in line if you pay us to guide you. Ummm it is a church, entrance is free!  And if you do your homework before you go, you don't need a guided tour.

dome of San Pietro 

I didn't take any pictures inside the church. It just seems dirty somehow to take pictures inside a house of worship. I know everyone else does it, why shouldn't I snap off a few shots. Well not only did it just not seem right, but the lighting is not great for photos. I also refuse to take flash photography of artworks.  It speeds up the degradation of some pigments, and I will not be part of destroying the worlds great art treasures. I know it sounds a little lame, who knows when I will ever have the opportunity to be at San Pietro again? But it is something I feel  passionate about. Other people are passionate about recycling, I am passionate about art.

The Basilica is amazing! I still can't believe that this trip is real. We have been inside the worlds largest church. The Chapel of the Pieta, where Michelangelo's famous statue is housed is completely closed off with large panes of glass. I was disapointed that we were not able to get closer, but I understand the reasoning behind it. Several years back the statue was damaged when a man climbed it and broke off fingers.  It was still one of the most amazing works of art that I have ever seen.

While we were able to see some beautiful art, I also cried like a little sissy girl. The tomb of John Paul II was moved from the Grotto to the main Basilica earlier this year during the beautification process. I greatly admired him, and I was over come with emotion, seeing his resting place.  I hope when I make it to heaven I will be allowed to meet him. I wonder who the other four people I will meet in heaven will be?

Swiss Guard 

While we were there, we were able to watch the changing of the Swiss Guard. The uniforms are so beautiful. I feel so blessed to have been able to witness the ceremony. It amazes me that they are all really Swiss, and that it is a high honor to serve the Holy See.

While we have been here we have seen so many things that are just culturally different than home. One of the strangest for me is the Man-pri,yep you guessed it grown men wearing capri pants. Today we spotted four pairs of Man-pri's all over the city.  I tired to convince DH that we should get him a pair before our next trip, he politely declined my offer.

Can't wait until tomorrow when we head back to San Pietro to attend a Papal audience. Many thanks for the Church of Santa Susanna for providing us with the tickets.

Day Four Roma

Today our plan was to catch one of the many hop-on hop-off tours and take a ride. Well things didn't go exactly according to plan, but we still had fun.

We began our day by walking to Piazza Barberini to catch the tour bus.  On the way we again went by Santa Maria della Vittoria, where the The Ecstasy of St Theresa statue by Gian Lorenzo Bernini is housed.  It is right across the street from Santa Susanna, but we totally missed that on Sunday. We were going to go in, but I was in a tank top and didn't have anything to cover my shoulders with me. Oh well we will be back in that area again as it is only about a mile from our hotel.  We made it Barberini and hopped the bus.

We were doing great on the bus...until we came upon a demonstration that stopped traffic dead in it's tracks. The metro had shut down due to a strike. Thank goodness we didn't get the three day metro pass!  So our entire bus clears out, except DH & I.And some nice British ladies. We were told that it would be about two hours before the bus would move again. The young lady that works for the tour company advised us to visit a nearby church as it would be cooler than sitting on the bus. We had just made it up the first group of stairils to the church, when she came running to find us. The bus was cleared to go again.  It was really nice of her to let us know. When we got back on the bus we were able to get the best seats on the bus. Right at the front of the upper deck.  We kept these seats until we were forced to switch buses at St Peters Square.

At this point we knew that we would have to wait at least 15 minutes for the next bus to arrive, so we decided to eat at the Cafe San Pietro. Epic fail! Oh we got lunch alright, for 52 Euros. To top it all off, it wasn't even that good!  Well we knew we needed to walk it off, so we decided we would go ahead and tour Basilica di San Pietro.   Even though we are going to be there tomorrow morning anyway.

We began to walk into the square and I was overwhelmed. I was walking into the square that Bernini designed! What an odd feeling, admiration for the work of a great artist, and a little buzz from being so close to the Holy Father.

As we walked to the square we were of course hounded by the street vendors that are almost everywhere in Roma. Do you need a map? Do you need a scarf? Do you need a guide book? Do you need an umbrella? Do you need? Do you need?  They can be very

Day Three Napoli and Pompeii

Day Three of our adventure began very early in the morning.  We were picked up at 7am by the tour company. The only part that really sucks is that breakfast at the hotel starts at 7. Lucky for us the folks at Hotel Art Deco are so nice. The very nice gentleman at the desk went to the kitchen and came back with two little bags of breakfast items.We were hoping to get a to-go coffee, they went above and beyond our expectations. 


Once we arrived at the tour companies main office, we waited for other passengers to arrive before we began. Our guide Christina was very nice. She conducted the tour in English, Spanish and French. WOW! I took French for 6 years, and only understood maybe 40% of what she was saying.  DH has had some Spanish and said he maybe got 20% of it. It was very impressive, there is no way I would be able to speak that many languages at once. I am having a hard enough time speaking Italian right now. 


We traveled South from Roma on the main highway that links Italy's three major centers (Milano, Roma and Napoli) together. As we traveled out of the city of Roma, I began to notice houses. The entire time we have been in Roma, we haven't seen any houses. There are apartment buildings everywhere.  Our guide mentioned that most people live in tiny apartments in Roma. They started with small houses, increasing in size until we reached the end of the Lazio region. At that point the houses began to get smaller again. We also noticed the the houses and towns became more "rustic" as we traveled south. And by rustic I really mean run down.  

Apennine Mountains

So here we are traveling along the highway, with these little rustic houses and amazing little villages going up the sides of the mountains.  It was breath taking. We learned from our guide that the Apennine Mountains run the length of the Italian peninsula. I have never seen anything quite like it....huge mountains on both sides of the highway. 


We finally arrived in Napoli and began to drive around the city. I was very shocked to see how dirty and crowed the city seemed.  Roma is full of people, but doesn't seem to be as crowed.  We were then taken on a tour of the bay of Naples. It was an amazing view. The island of Capri and the other side of the bay where Sorrento is located is in full view.  There were three giantic cruise ships moored in the harbor. As breath taking as the view was, my heart broke a little as we continued our journey along the bay. We saw shanti towns. I have only seen photos of slum areas before and I had no idea they actually existed in Europe. I can't imagine what it must be like to actually live there. 

Island of Capri in the Bay of Naples 

 We were then taken to see how cameo are made from sea shells.  While the technique was discussed, and the "factory" offered us 20% off of everything, I was disappointed. The prices were very high, and the quality was not what I expected. In fact I found much more attractive pieces in Pompeii for far less...plus I got to haggle the price down there. What a blast! 


We were then treated to lunch in the new city of Pompei, across from the Sanctuary of Pompei. Lunch was very tasty, but drinks were not included as part of our tour.  No big deal, unless you were the people on our trip who thought they were ordering a glass of wine but had actually purchased the entire bottle. After lunch it was on to the ruins of the ancient city.  

at Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background

I have been waiting to visit Pompeii since I was a little girl.  I remember wanting to be an anthropologist and wanting to wanting to work at Pompeii.  I was lucky enough to have had a teacher in Junior High that encouraged my dream, he always told me I would make it here. And now 20 some years later, her I am.  
Thank you Mr. Winemiller!






How humbling to know you are walking the streets of a town that was wiped off the map!  I don't know about anyone else, but it was really kinda erie. I know most of the people made it out of the city, but seeing the casts of the bodies they did find was a little sad. Especially the one of the chained up dog. It really made me miss my babies. 


We had the funniest tour guide during our time in Pompeii, Franco.  He made walking thru the ancient brothel interesting. He kept mentioning that we haven't invented anything the Romans didn't think of first, judging from the fresco'd "menu", he is right.  WOW!  We were also able to tour the men's baths, really impressive if you think about it.  You took your hot bath, then moved to the tepid water, then finally into the cold bath. Just like baths today! 

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We also were able to explore two ancient houses. One "middle-class" home and one "very wealthy" home.  The only things different? Same as today, square footage! Ok so the wealthy home had better quality frescos, and a garden.   We were also able to visit both auditoriums and the gymnasium.  Franco, our wonderful guide, even sang us a song in the little auditorium, to demonstrate the acoustics of course. 


After we left the ruins we were able to do some shopping for souvenirs. Then we began the long bus ride home. I swear we were on the return trip for ever. I joked with DH that we must actually be in Dante's Inferno, as we waited to be dropped off.  I swear we went in circles around Roma for hours.  


What an adventure!  More sight seeing tomorrow!

Day Two Roma!

Today we were supposed to go to Castel San't Angelo...well we didn't even make it close. We tried to make up what we missed on day one. We were totally wiped out from traveling.

Fontana del Tritone

Today we went to mass at Santa Susanna. What an amazing church! We do not have anything like it in the US. This church is a masterpiece of Baroque art. It was completed in 1603, and every inch of the interior is covered in the most beautiful frescos. It was really awe inspiring. I had great hopes of taking pictures of the Baroque facade of the church, but it is currently under going renovation. I felt so much at home sitting there taking in the surounding. Mass closed with my favorite hym, How Great Thou Art.  I was moved to tears to hear voices of everyone around me in this amazing church.  Thank you Father God! 

We also walked around town for about 5 hours after the mass, and yes my dogs are barking! We visited the Piazza Barberini, and saw the amazing Fontana del Tritone.  We met some other American's there from Florida, who shot this picture of us. We returned the favor and shot a picture of them also. 

view from atop the Spanish Steps
the Dome of San Pietro in background

We also went to the Spanish Steps and the Trinita del Monti.  The most fun for both of us was people watching.  We sat on the steps like typical Romans and watched the other tourists from around the world act like tourists. It was so interesting to see the diversity of the people that are visiting Roma.  We also heard so many different languages today, how blessed we are to be on this adventure.  I don't know about DH, but I haven't felt out of place or uncomfortable yet! 

Detail from the Porta Pia

We also visited the Porta Pia, as it is only a few blocks from our hotel. This is the last architectural work of Michelangelo.  He died before it was completed in 1565. Commisened Pope Pius IV to open a new gate in the Aurelian Walls. 

We also visited the iconic Fontana di Trevi.  Just seeing pictures doesn't give any indication of the scale. This is a very large structure. We approached from the north-east and could hear water rushing before we could see the back of the Fontana.  We went around to the front and I was taken aback at the sheer size.  I still can't believe that we are here in Roma and seeing the sights in person. I keep thinking that I will wake from this dream soon.  

detail from Fontana di Trevi

We were unable to toss our coins in, as there were to many people to make it down to the pool of water.  The legend says that if you toss your coin in, you are insured a return visit to Roma.  I am thinking we will venture back in a few days to toss our coins....but also to shop. I saw the cutest purse, but don't want to purchase until after we visit Florence. We will be visiting a leather making school, and maybe I will find something equally as impressive for less Euros. Yes I am still hunting for a bargin!

I can't wait to plan our next trip to Italy.  I have mentioned wanting to travel to Paris for our next trip, but I am falling in love with Roma, the eternal city. I can now understand the saying, "There once was a dream, and the dream is Roma".

Tomorrow we head south of Roma, to Napoli and the ruins at Pompeii. Will be a long day, but one I have been looking forward to since 8th grade. 

Roma

We arrived early this morning after a fantastic 7 1/2 hour flight.  Hurray!

I had originally been very worried about flying. I mean flew as a small child, but I don't remember it. I remember having little plastic wings, and wanting to be a pilot when I grew up, but nothing of flying it's self. So imagine my suprise...I love it! Take off and landing are a little weird...not bad  just weird. But there is nothing like cruising at 39,000 feet!   The only things I don't like about flying, layovers, and of course landing at one end of the airport only to have to go all the way to the other end to get to the next gate.  Reagan was awesome in this regard...it looks like all the Delta flights arrive and depart from the same terminal.  DaVinci wasn't bad either....even though we arrived a very long way from the main arrivals terminal, they have a sweet little train to haul you to the terminal....I am thinking Logan needs something like that. I am not looking forward for the return walk.

Oh and ladies if you are going to fly to Italy, book yourself on Alitalia. You will not regret it! I can't be sure, but I think we had the best looking flight crew on the planet. The gents were, umm lets just say in my single days they would have been right up my alley. Tall, dark hair, olive skin, beautiful eyes and smokey voices.  Molto Bello!!  And for you guys, the ladies of the flight crew weren't to shabby either.

Someone had asked us if we were planning to rent a car here, we kinda looked at them like they were maybe a little crazy. After arriving, we know those folks are more than a little crazy.
Probally 40% of the cars we have seen have some sort of denting, either front side panels or back side panels.  Our shuttle driver didn't look at traffic before backing out at the airport, he just backed out. The nice British couple that were ridding shot-gun looked petrified. It was a very interesting two hours from the airport to the hotel.  I shall never complain about traffic at home again. Oh and LPD, if you think that people in Lincoln follow a little close, just come to Italy and experience the fun yourselves. That was the closest to Nascar or the Autobon I ever want to get.

I love the decor at our hotel! The staff were also very friendly. They must be used to tired international travelers at around 10 am. They seemed to understand when all we could manage was a weak little Bongiorno when we arrived. While we were sitting in the bar area waiting for our room we heard the following languages from other guests who were arriving.  French, French Canadian, German, Korean, Australian (lol I know it isn't a language)  From what I have read about, and seen on travel shows our room is very spacious. We have a Queen size bed, ample storage (big armoire)

We met some very nice people from Ontario, they were finishing up a 14 cruise. Yesterday they were touring Pompeii, and were kind enough to give us some tips. So far everyone has been so sweet. Italians and other tourists.  WOW I am a tourist!

We are settling in for an afternoon nap, as we have now been up traveling for over 24 hours.  So far I am still wide awake, but know that I am going to crash hard soon.

How many times do we have to go thru security today?  So for twice.
Once at DC, once in Boston.
Oh and Boston did you have to put the termials so far apart?
And I was worried about missing a workout?!?!
One more flight and we are in Italy....woot!

The final answer....three!  Twice in the US, once in Italy.
waiting at Logan 

Day of Firsts

My Dear Husband and I were married a little over five years ago, and we didn't take a honeymoon. We were not financially able to go on a trip at that time. We just said we will do it sometime.  After a year of marriage, and watching the divorces of two other couples that got married the same year as ourselves, we decided we would go away for our 5th Anniversary.

I am not going to lie, the last five years have been rough. We have dealt with the loss of those closest to us, I went back to college, and we have been trying to get debt free. As the milestone anniversary came closer, we decided if we were going to do it, we might as well go big. So we decided on going to Italy.  We began to refer to it as either "our trip" or the "we haven't maimed each other yet trip". 

Well after a year or so of planning it is finally here, we are on our belated honeymoon!  Yikes!

Today has really been a day of firsts for me....I am on information overload right now.
First time going on a vacation with my husband, first time flying as an adult (haven't flown since I was a kid), first time seeing cloud tops, first time east of the Mississippi, first time in Tennessee, first time in Washington DC,seeing the Washington Monument from the plane, first time taking a subway, first time at a Smithsonian museum, first trip to the National Mall, first time seeing out Nations Capital, first time seeing the Hope Diamond, first time seeing a Triceratops skull (it was the size of DH), the list could go on for what seems like ever.  I also know that tomorrow will also be another day of firsts.  I am so excited and can't wait. What an adventure!

I have to say by far the most beautiful thing I have seen today, the sun rising through the clouds! I have never experienced anything like that before. I am in awe of the majesty of God, all I can say is wow!

I have been struggling to find my purpose, where I fit into the plan. In short I have felt a disconnect in my relationship with God. I have had a really hard time focusing on my relationship with God Between working full-time and being a full-time college student I barely have any time for anything.

While I have been planning this trip, I have had this glimmer of hope that going to Italy and visiting where the "church" began that I can reenergize my connection with God. Hope that I will feel a connection with those who came before me, those early Christians who met in secret small groups. Who knows it could be a complete goose chase, but have that hope.

By this time tomorrow we will be on a plane, heading to Roma!  I still can't believe that the day is finally here.