Rome's Republic Day - Thursday 6/2

Thursday was the beginning of our last few free afternoons. Setting out with a light at the end of our tunnel, we headed out in the morning earlier than usual, going back to the Trevi Fountain. Bright in the morning light, we took some touristy pictures before settling to listen to the presentation. The best moment by far was a slight pause in the speeches, where Erica proudly proclaimed, “I am a mermaid!” Obviously thinking of herself as a fantastical mer-creature in the shallow fountain, while not even having meant to be heard by others, the entire group laughed. It was quite a fun moment!

When the presentation was finished, many of us settled down by the edge to throw coins over our shoulders, one representing the wish to return to Rome, two to marry, and three to divorce. Chuckling at our last option, many of us threw in a coin in the hopes of returning.

With that, we were set free. A group of us found our way over to Vittorio Manuele II in hopes of seeing the end of the military parade come by. However, the crowds had already built, and we were a bit late. While other tried to get closer to the road, Maria and I wandered off to head back to campus, doing a bit of shopping on the way. Once we returned home, both of us separated ways to catch up on blogging and photos for a bit.

When the afternoon rolled around, Shannon came by and the two of us set out for the grocery store, and a little more of shopping. However when we got caught in the rain, we decided it was time to head home.

Not too long later, we met up for dinner. Many of us were tired, and decided to search for a nearby place. On a side street, we found a small family run restaurant, and though it was slightly more expensive than our cheap Trastevere pizzas, everyone loved their meal. Since Thursday is apparently gnocchi night in Rome, I ordered a plate of gnocchi with tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella.