Sightseeing with Mamma Paula

John's mom came to visit us in Italy last November. John was busy student teaching, so I got Paula all to myself for most of the week. We had so much fun exploring, and made some unforgettable memories. Here are some of the photos we took during the first half of our sightseeing adventures. Enjoy!

The Colosseum

Here are some photos from John and my visit to the Colosseum.  
Not pictured: 
1) Native American pan flute players (will somebody please explain this?)
2) Con artists dressed up in awkward gladiator outfits (a little too short there, buddy!)
3) A guy dressed up in a tacky gold mummy suit (we watched for ten minutes and no one gave him any money)
4) Hideous booths packed with sweatshop souvenirs (sorry to those of you who love snow globes featuring the pope)
5) Break-dancing mimes accompanied by mediocre percussion (wow)
You can thank me later.  

  

 

Day in Rome with Joe

John and I had the pleasure of spending quality time with one of our dearest friends on two separate occasions during our stay in Italy. He is truly a kindred spirit, and we are so thankful to have him as our new brother-in-law. Here are some photos from one of the days we spent in Rome with Joe.  

 

 

 

 

Trastevere

Trastevere is one of my favorite places in Rome. John and I took a walk up the hill to catch a beautiful panoramic view of the city, had a picnic in the park, and then made our way down through the colorful and labyrinthine loveliness to visit the first church ever built in honor of Jesus' mother Mary. Along the way, we saw stylish Romans riding bicycles, ivy covered buildings, college students going to class on mopeds, laundry hanging out to dry on lines tied across narrow streets, beautifully painted pottery, and lots of great places to eat. Because it was advent season, I especially enjoyed reflecting on the intricate and colorful mosaics in the church in Trastevere, which tell the story of Jesus' birth. Hope you enjoy this glimpse into our day!