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Our 2nd week in Italy we stayed in Rome…well actually we stayed in the small village of Monterosi about 30km north of Rome.  Jessica’s family met us for this week and we had a nice house where we could relax, swim in the pool, enjoy time with family and most importantly they could enjoy time with Sophie.  The small village also gave us quaint restaurants and shops within walking distance.  During the week we of course made time for a few day trips into Rome.  We were able to visit the Colosseum (as magnificent as you would expect it to be), Pantheon (one of the most impressive sights), Roman Forum (an amazing place to sit and imagine what once was), Trevi Fountain (spectacular site just too many people to contend with), Sistine Chapel (the ceiling frescos are as glorious as we hoped they would be), St. Peter’s Basilica (with a seating capacity of over 60,000 and the works of legendary artists such as Michelangelo adorning the hall, truly a breathtaking cathedral), the Vatican Museums (amazing works of Raphael, Michelangelo and other famous artists, but almost an overwhelming collection at times) and St. Peter’s Square (where we were  fortunate to be a part of a Papal audience, seeing the Pope’s weekly address in person!)  We can’t describe the incredible feeling of being in a place with thousands of years of history. To be able to visit the “Eternal City” was truly an opportunity of a lifetime and we are so thankful we were able to experience it with family.