My Everyday Walk to Class

I have been so blessed to study in Rome with the University of Arkansas the past 4 and a half weeks. As my time here is coming to an end, I decided to make a photo journal of my daily walk to class so that I can remember the simple things that brought joy to my mornings. I also thought some relatives might be curious to see my stroll to class!

*cue Dean Martin's hit, That's Amore* --because every morning I start my day singing--just ask my roommates :)

Riding down the old rickety elevator and stepping onto Giovani Bettolo to start my 27 min walk to class. I woke up bright and early today so that I could take my time admiring my favorite parts of my routine walk.

Not everyone in Italy has the pleasure of owning an air conditioning unit because the buildings are so ancient. The best way to enjoy your morning is opening the windows, listening to the birds chirp and play, and sipping on a coffee.

My favorite place to stop for a sweet treat and quick cappuccino is our lovely "sweet shop" (as us MSU students call it). It is actually a pretty famous bakery known as Dolce Maniera. It is known for its discreet underground location. It is open 24 hours and has the best prices in Prati (the neighborhood my apartment is in). un cappuccino per favore!!

The next stop is St. Peters Basilica. If you make the walk early enough you can miss all of the pestering tour guides trying to direct you to the Vatican. Not too bad of a view huh?

And of course I have to stop to pet all of the Italian pups. This sweet guy was just begging for some loving. Also, check out that cobble stone. Ever wonder why Italian women stay clear of stilettos? Well now you know.

This might just be my favorite part of the walk, crossing the Tiber River that is lined with Bernini's Angels. Once you make it over the Tiber, there's not much longer until you reach the school.

Our school is gated because it is an ancient palace owned by the Orsini family who still lives in one wing of the building. We have to enter through the back gate; front gate is off limits! Don't let Fabio catch you sneaking through the front.

And here we are. My sweet roommate Mandy is opening the door to the studio space for me. Now we work and create all of the beautiful poster things!!