From Rome

Well, let us just say about Florence that "whatever happens in "Florence, stays in Florence.." Of course, if you would like any details, you may be able to pry some loose from Sara "Crash" Santini. Nuff said. (Don't ask...don't tell)

We visited so many churches in Florence and they really like to name their churches after Mary. We visited Santa Maria dei Fiori (Il Duomo) and so many others that we forget the names. We think we visited Santa Maria della come ti chiami and also Santa Maria della che sucesse... and a few more. Va bene.

Now for Roma... we had a long drive down to Rome, slowed a bit by an accident on the highway. Today, we visited the Vatican. Spectacular and awsome. We had a very good guide who took us through the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peters Basilica. Everyone was awed by the size and the artworks. It is so different from the churches at home that it is easy to forget that we were in a church.

After this, and some lunch in Rome, we went to a cooking class/competition where the girls made fresh pasta, orancini, and some other Italian dishes before dining on a sumptuous repast. Tomorrow, we have an art class in the morning so the girls can release their inner Da Vincis... and then a bit oif a walking tour centered around the area near the Spanish Steps and the local shopping area by the Gucci, Benetton, and other designer stores. Time to give those plastic cards a work out.

We have plenty of photos to share, but internet access here is very limited. Hopefully, when we get to Sorrento, we'll be able to post several photos to get everyone caught up. The weather has been exceptional.

Thanks and hi to all the readers and especially to those who sent comments. We all appreciate them.

Ciao a tutti.