Last Day in Rome

Today was my last full day in Rome. I had a great time, and there still a couple of places I'd have liked to visit, but I feel very satisfied with my trip. One thing that has been unexpected so far: I haven't taken many photographs. It's partially due to the fact that I've been here before. I also don't always feel like bringing my camera around and taking it out. Anyway, about the only interesting photographs I've taken so far are of the students. I've posted a few below. Tomorrow I board a train at 11:15 for Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance!

Hadrian's Villa

Today I spent the day about 20 miles outside of Rome to visit the ruins of the Emperor Hadrian's Villa. We struggled to get there. It took a ride on the Metro, then on a train, then a long walk, and finally a bus. The ancient villa was practically a miniature city, with temples, houses, offices, and a theater. Unfortunately my seasonal allergies were acting up and made my visit more difficult. After two hours of touring, I met a friendly dog and he posed for a photo.

Maroon Fridays

It's 12:30 am, so let's make this post quick. Today is Friday, and for us Mississippi State faculty and students, that means it's Maroon Friday. We're encouraged to support our school by wearing the MSU colors, so I did just that. Only one individual was brave enough to join me today, and that's Sam, pictured below. Our entire day was spent visiting the Vatican Museums, the interior of St. Peter's Basilica, and as you can see, the top of St. Peter's as well. The trip is going really well. I had never met half the students on the trip, but because of our shared experiences, I already feel like I know them pretty well. Now, I need a shower and some sleep!

We're Two Coins in a Fountain

I've only been to Rome once before, and it was in 2005. Alisha and I were dating at the time (I was 24), and we spent 3 days in Rome as part of our pilgrimage to World Youth Day in Cologne, Germany. Here  you'll see two photos from that trip. Above we're in front of the Trevi Fountain, and below in front of St. Peter's Basilica. According to tradition, if you throw one coin into the fountain, you are ensured a return trip to Rome. A second coin will ensure marriage. Our coins have done a pretty good job, with us getting married in 2006 and me returning to Rome this year. Something must've gone wrong with Alisha's other coin. Perhaps I'll head down to the Trevi fountain and put another Euro in for her.