Ciao Roma!

I saw one internet cafe the whole time we were in Europe. Far different from what it was five years ago. We had wifi in London and in Paris but not in Rome. We had very little time in each of the cities to log on and blog a bit. When we were back in the hotels it was late, we were tired, and didn't usually want to wait in line to use the computer. Ms. Decker and I expected to have a bit more free time to write and blog, but instead we stuffed every minute of every day with sightseeing, shopping, eating, bonding, WALKING, and sometimes running. Yes, running. If I can figure our how to upload my videos of that, I will. In any case, here are a few words about Rome...

Rome is more majestic than I remember. I suppose that's what nine years will do to the memory. Sure, I knew I had seen the coliseum, Vatican city and St. Peter's basilica, but I had forgotten about the Spanish steps and Piazza Navona. These places instantly transported me to July 2001 when I was being led around Rome with my fellow choir members.  Despite my own "wow moments" it was fun to see these fourteen young adults have their own. Sometimes those moments were in response to some super cute top that was "only" 20 Euros, or some life-changing culinary experience, but most of the time it was a truly profound moment for them to just stop and take in their surroundings. A moment where everything around them fell silent and they just observed. Seeing their eyes light up in wonder and hearing them plan their study abroad experiences gave me great joy. Nothing teaches us more about the world and about ourselves than travel. When we remove ourselves from our natural environment and accept the challenge of navigating a new place, a new culture, and (gulp) a new language, we really find out what we're made of. As they plan their next trip abroad, perhaps this time on their own or with a collegiate organization, I can't help but reminisce about what those experiences did for me and wonder how and when I'll get to do it again. Our leader, our guide, and our friend, Vico, told us to keep traveling. I have to echo that request. So until next time, ciao Roma, mille grazie e ti amo.