We have arrived in Italy and have begun our Roman Holiday. It is just as magical and marvellous as I remember and even more precious being here with the love of my life. We have always wanted to return to Italy together but Chris has told me he dreams of living here some day. I am enamoured by the thought and could see us living somewhere here someday, but for now we will be adventurous and take it all in.
Our introduction has been a tasty and savoury start. Let's talk food! We have had aperitif for lunch and dinner...a cold drink with a variety of delectable treats; cured meats, bruschetta and cheeses, veggies and dips and a selection of salads. I am so happy to eat this way! The gelato break in between meals is my favourite and in the heat it's very rewarding. The temperature was in the warm 20's with a few drops of rain today. Perfect! We walked from our place in Trastevere all over Rome today with stops at the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and the Piazza Navona. The wish came true for us both...when we threw our coins in the Trevi fountain last time, it brought us back to Rome again with each other. So we did it again just to make sure.
We have sat in many churches and Piazza's today but the one to top it all was at the end of the day sipping Prosseco and listening to live music with the locals. Everyone and their kids and dogs seems to come and sit in the square to relax, visit and enjoy each other's company. It seems to be very normal to talk loud and with dramatic hand gestures, dance in whatever way you fancy and to have public displays of affection. It is Rome after all....so if you can't beat em, join em! (Full disclosure: Kissing photos are on their way)
We enjoyed weaving thru the narrow cobblestone streets on our way to the B&B and watching the locals eating, drinking and singing together. It is a very social culture, always involving good food and drink for pleasure, not excess. Canada....we can learn so much from this lifestyle.
Our adventure is just beginning but we are off to a great start. Tomorrow we will visit the Vatican City for a wave to the Pope at Sunday mass. And who knows what mischief we will find ourselves in. We are looking forward to it regardless!