Welcome to Rome, Gentle Reader! Cat and I scored two and a half weeks here with a four day side trip to Florence mostly thanks to Amy’s aunt Makiko and her family who found us a place to stay in Rome and fed us almost every meal. We’ve had an INCREDIBLE time with them and have been generally overwhelmed by their generosity.
They also loaded us up with books and movies so we were mentally prepared to enjoy Rome to the fullest. Some of these include:
Inferno by Dan Brown
Roman Daze by Bronté Dee Jackson
The Keys to Open 99 Secret Places in Rome by Costantino D’Orazio and D. Ohnheiser
La Dolce Vita directed by Fellini
Three Coins in a Fountain directed by Negulesco
I’ve been absorbing these along with three or four guidebooks on Rome and Florence. WE HAD TO BE PREPARED, OK?
The following photos are only from our first day here, and we’ve been here for two weeks now. Amy’s camera is on life support. Just prepare for more photos.
I mean look at how that guy was sitting on his Vespa.
I’m camera shy. It’s a miracle these were taken. Amy threatened me within an inch of my life. So here’s my best fake smile.
Which quickly turned into my “I hate photos” face. 
My annoyed “CAT, I AM DONE” face. 
I tried.
Isn’t Cat cute? More to come, friends! Thanks for reading.
Best,
Kate and Amy, SL
Song of the Day: Hey Brother, Pour the Wine | Dean Martin
Italian Phrase of the Day: Buona sera | Good evening
Suitcase Lioness 
THIS is what social media was made for–so I can see Rome and Florence without the long plane ride! Seriously GORGEOUS photos (as usual). Can’t imagine how many scrapbooks you’ll fill when you’re done! Merry Christmas (it clearly was!) and Happy New Years to you both!
I like the pictures!!! your camera shy photos are PERFECT!!! WELL DONE AMY. hahahaha