Bonjourno!

Our first day in Rome was spectacular! Rome has more character than any city I've been to. The narrow streets are lined with historic buildings and apartments where renters display flowers and greenery on their balconies. The people are friendly, even to tourists who are so obvious as us. I never thought I looked much Italian until I came here. Of course my mom could come here and tourists would probably stop and ask her for directions in broken Italian - she could come here and not miss a beat.
The Borghese gallery was magnificent today. Statues, artwork, and paintings fill the mansion; everywhere you rest your eyes is beautiful! My favorite was a marble statue of Apollo chasing Daphne. As she is running she turns into a tree and the artist (Bernini) captured the transformation exactly in his work.
I've already had some genuine Italian lasagne and it really was incredible. We haven't gotten gelato yet :). We did however get terribly lost. The bus system is somewhat difficult to navigate. But taxis have been a godsend! Speaking of God, this is truly the center for Christianity. When you walk down the cobblestone streets it is not uncommon to run across nuns or stores filled with priest robes, goblets, and church accessories (including pope hats!).
Well I must be off to bed for our adventure tomorrow. We will see the Vatican and Sistine chapel and attend mass at St. Peter's Basilica (and hopefully try the gelato!).
Ciao!