November 21, 2002 - Page 3

We wrapped up the day by visiting some of Rome’s famous Christian relics, including (allegedly) pieces of Christ’s cross, thorns from His crown, the skulls of Sts. Peter and Paul, and a digit once belonging to St. Thomas. There is definitely a “believe it or not” aspect to their display and authenticity, but simply contemplating the various items is enough to cause goosebumps.

Before departing on Sunday afternoon, Ethan and I squeezed in visits to the Colosseum, a very authentic (some would say crazy) open market, the national monument, and some incredible Italian restaurants. No inglese spoken, so the food is guaranteed to be an experience. When the time came to head north, I was at once completely smitten with Rome and very ready to get out of town. Not even the most historic city in the world can reproduce the comfort of your own bed, and by this point, my pillow was the sight I wished most to see.