Monthly Archives: November 2002

Did you know that the Vatican City is a completely independent state within the Italian Republic? They have their own stamps and currency as well as a radio station and newspaper. We tried to take a picture of the Swiss Guards (the Papal Guards) in their cute little blue uniforms but they said we had to take it from behind the gates. At least we got a picture. Not like Monaco where they bolted when I pulled out the camera.

That reminds me: I was trying to get a picture of the train conduc read more

I was awoken in the middle of the night by booming cracks of thunder and lightening that lit up the room like laser show. It was my first (but not last) Roman Thunderstorm! I listened to the pounding rain and reflected on my travels over the last few months before drifting off again.

The next morning, I decided a rainy day would be perfect for sitting around relaxing while catching up on my writing. I said goodbye (but see you soon!) to Calen, Heath, Fiona and Damien (the Halloween kissing read more

Today I met Lauren and Kate then went to the fruit market for breakfast. We walked to the Colosseum, yet again. The first thing I noticed, aside from the hoards of people, were the many relaxed cats and kittens lazing around everywhere. Ohhh Carmella Paradise! They get to live here because there is actually a law here that says cats should be able to live where they are born. There are even people who feed and take care of them.

We got to the queue to buy tickets and realized that this was read more

I changed hostels for the last time in Europe and have really come upon a winner. It`s called Fawlty Towers and it`s pretty popular so make sure to book ahead. I love everything about it from the colorful paintings on the wall to the cheerful staff. The almost too comfy couch to the jungle-like terrace is a great place to watch the cats basking on the roof across the street.

Most of all tho, I have met some very special people who have made my last few days in Europe quite memorable. Beau read more

I am sitting on a plane which is about to take off from Rome. Europe is getting cold as it should be in November. Time is just such a strange concept to me right now. It`s almost as if all of these months have been a dream….but I know I have grown quite a bit.

My last few days turned out to be much fun with great people. I learn that the less you plan and the less you expect, the more precious and special the surprise. Liz is truly a gift. She did all sorts of errands with me in my last read more