Edges, Awe & Aperol Spritzes in the Eternal City
Living Rome One Step at a Time
#22
It’s Sunday morning in Rome, and I’ve been here for two full days now. It’s been a lot to navigate on my own, and there have definitely been edges in living this new reality, but I couldn’t be happier.
Isn’t that life? We’re excited to experience something new, we give it a go, and it rarely turns out exactly how we planned or imagined. But following our desires, and that inner nudge of the soul calling us into something greater, is always a gift.
My time in Houston with my brother and sister-in-law was exactly what I needed: heart-filling and grounding. I worked out, got a massage (after pulling a muscle at Ethan’s gym when visiting him), and simply soaked up two days in the excellent company of family.
Because I was flying on a pass from my brother, it meant space-available — not a guaranteed seat — so we spent time looking at which flights had the best odds of me getting on. The direct flights to Rome were booking up, so I decided to fly into Naples instead and then take the high-speed train into Rome. Only an hour and a half ride, and better than waiting around an airport hoping for a seat.
But as plans were being made, little did we know there was a transportation strike across Italy. Not all the trains were running, and chaos was abundant. Still, I met a few angel travelers who helped me when I asked questions, and somehow, through it all, I made it to Rome smoothly and without too much hassle.
Every step since has had an out-of-the-box quality to it — a different language (I understand a little, but not much), following Google Maps when it refuses to recognize my address and sends me in circles, walking miles by choice when the trams and metro aren’t running and the bus schedule looks like a riddle.
And yet — dinner right outside the Colosseum, watching it glow at night… wandering through Trastevere for an afternoon and evening… seeing the ancient ruins at every turn — it’s all mind-blowing. This is my fifth or sixth time in Rome, and every time it leaves me in awe.
I keep checking in with myself to notice how I’m navigating all this change. The first two mornings here, I let myself sleep in (thank you, jet lag) and took it easy in the apartment — laundry, YouTube, making breakfast. When most people travel, their itineraries are packed from sunrise to sunset. I’m grateful I don’t have to rush. I won’t see it all, and that’s okay. Even if I stayed for three months, I wouldn’t see everything!
The biggest edge for me right now is technology. I brought a selfie stick and a new microphone to record videos for YouTube, but I’ve been resisting both. The selfie stick I can manage inside, but I’ve been wary of using it outdoors around people. The microphone? Still in the box.
Yesterday, I found myself delaying leaving the apartment because I didn’t want to use either. So I compromised: I brought the selfie stick and promised myself I’d actually use it. There’s something about being more visible that still challenges me. But after doing my practices and talking myself through the fear, I did it! I took a few photos. Small steps forward count. Once I’m comfortable with that, the microphone’s next!
The food here is incredible, of course. I’ve had a few Aperol spritzes and even stumbled into a magical piazza moment yesterday — sitting at a café when the church bells began to ring and a wedding party poured out of the church. It was pure movie magic.
Last night, after a full day of exploring, I had a 75-minute walk home. People in Rome, even with the protests, have been respectful and kind. Still, I was tired, carrying a heavy backpack of groceries, and once again, Google Maps sent me astray. Frustrated, I stopped into a bar to ask for help. A young bartender called a taxi for me, and wouldn’t you know, my apartment was just around the corner, five blocks away. I was beyond grateful just to get the ride.
It’s only been two and a half weeks on the road, and lake life already feels lifetimes away. I’ve started looking into three-month rentals in Texas for spring to get the lay of the land, and one promising option has already come through. I’m also connecting with a local realtor through a friend for additional leads. I’m putting the intention out, asking Spirit for grace and ease, and trusting it will all flow effortlessly if I stay open and receptive.
I’ve added some great new links to my Travel page that I’ll keep updating, so head over and take a look. You’ll also find my YouTube channel linked in the signature line below. Subscribe and follow along for real-time stories from the road!
Edges and growth, magic and I-can’t-believe-I-get-to-be-here moments — they’re all making me feel incredibly alive right now. I can do this on my own, but it’s always more fun when shared, and I can’t wait to see Tim again soon.
As the bells toll across the city this morning, my heart feels full.
From my heart to yours, may this week bring you your own movie-worthy scene. Always for the highest and best.
To your highest and best,
Dianna
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