Wednesday.

Ciao ciao ciao! Yesterday we saw the Roman Forum. It was a quick trip on the 40 from the IES center to the Piazza Venezia, and the Forum was just a short walk from there. It was breath taking. Did I mention we went for a class "field study?" My art history class has a lot of those, as does my Roman history course. We go to the locations that we are studying and get to talk about it while its in front of our eyes. I'd like to go to the Forum on my own and just wander and stare, without having to strain to hear what my professor is saying.

After that, I went to Scholars, an Irish pub with a few friends and had a beer. It was nice. We had nachos, too. Hey, we all need a little break from the culture shock sometimes.

My political science class met for the first time last night and it sounds interesting. I wish it weren't so late, but then again, the city is lovely by night time. I'm excited to learn about the Italian political system. The elections will be held while we're here. In fact, they're held on my birthday.

Today I had only one class - Italian - at 2:30. I slept in and took it slow this morning. While I was walking to the metro and chomping on a ham and cheese sandwich, a little old man, out for a stroll with his little old dog, said, "Buon appetito!" to me as I passed. I knew then it was going to be a nice day.

I came home after class and spoke with my Cafe Abroad editor. I tossed out my story idea and he tweaked it here and there. We came up with the idea of a photo essay about all the monuments that are currently under restoration. I feel good about it and I'm glad that I'm being aggressive with my ideas. I think our group is finally meeting next week. Hooray!

I spoke with Spencer earlier today on Skype. He bought us Tom Petty tickets for my birthday. I am, to say the least, THRILLED. I cannot wait. It's scheduled for July 3, the day before one of my all time favorite holidays.

Yesterday I received two letters - one from my dad containing my new ATM card, and one from Chris from the Deli. I was so excited all afternoon. And I finally figured out how to use the Italian postal system, so I will be sending many more post cards from now on.

I'm feeling more adjusted and a little more optimistic. I think tomorrow I'll explore a bit here and there. I'd really like to go to the Vatican again. I find it romantic and mind blowing. Next weekend the Pope is addressing local university students and I get a free ticket. I'll let you know how it goes, but I feel it's a once in a lifetime opportunity. I get to be an audience for the Pope!

What else?

The Metro is increasingly stinky every time I get on it. I think I'll start taking the 62 in to the city on a more regular basis. It takes me from Piazza Bologna straight to the Castel San'Angelo. Therefore I can avoid the Metro and its crowds.

Well, tomorrow is a new day. A Thursday, at that. Almost three weeks down. Where should I go for Spring Break? Any suggestions.

Ciao.