Family fun in Roma

Family are pretty special, wherever you are. But for a kiwi-kid from a wee city in the middle of the pacific who has grown up hearing stories of his ancestors that came from Italy, to actually catch up with a whole load of Family in Italy's capital was just magic.

After a somewhat convoluted arrival into Rome, missing the route into the city (twice) and finding ourselves about 70 miles north of the city before managing to find another way back in, then driving around the inner city in circles trying to find the Vatican (it can't be that hard to find - it's an independant state!!!) we learned again, never to assume! But we did eventually manage to find our accomodation - just across the road from the entrace to the Vatican museum. Quite handy really! And after a relaxing afternoon to just chill, and a brief wander down to see St Peter's with mum, while Gwen and Mez went to Mass and to pick up tickets for the papal audience on Wednesday, we met up with the cousies from Wellington to converge on the streets of Rome in search of some good italian tucker and as much vino as can be enjoyed on such an occasion.

Somewhat unfortunately this was not one of our better meals out, but great company more than made up for the lack of service and B class local fare - we've eaten a lot better at Italian restaurants in NZ!!! A great night was had by all though, as is the custom for Monastra night's out - it was a shame really that we couldn't time things a little better and had more time to spend together - but was great to have everyone gathered for one night anyway. There's always next time too, though when that will be, remains a mystery...