Rome, 10pm

I offically cannot believe how stunningly beautiful this city is.  Crowded tourist trap, yes, but nonetheless, stunning,  no matter where you turn, on any average street, there will be some gorgeous monument or church or museum or piaza, or fountain...Everything is a work of art. 

Stephen and I went out to explore a bit on our own this morning before meeting up with the group at 1pm at which point we did a group walking tour of the main highlights of the city.  The colloseum, the Pantheon, 3 different churches, the Spanish steps, the Trevi fountain, to name a few.  Sharon, the woman in charge, is actually very knowledgeable about the city and had a lot of interesting history to share.  I knew Rome would be impressive but I am blown away by the sheer beauty and artistry of it all.  

It is hot here too.  Stephen and I were laughing because we were just complaining how cold it has been in Spain recently, but it is flat out hot here.  And there was a freak random thunderstorm in the middle of the afternoon with literally the loudest thunder I have ever heard in my life.  It sounded like a canon dropping on the entire city of Rome and wiping everyone out- it was pretty wild.  Lucky for us we were under the shelter of The Pantheon, a temple dedicated to all the Gods that is unbelievably grand and majestic.  It's pretty neat; it has a big circular opening in the roof that allows in the elements at all times, any time of year, so we got to see an indoor rain shower. 

I was stunned again by the gorgeous Trevi fountain...more beautiful than I expected.  I followed the tradition and tossed in 3 coins, one for life, one for love and one to return to Rome again.   Just got back an hour ago and I am beat.  Feel like we just did the pilgrimage again!

Goodnight all...talk soon,

Andrea & Stephen  PS- Check out all the photos we uploaded!!