roma and ancona

just a quick update: i arrived in rome last thursday.  it is an incredible city.  i spent the weekend there with my friend irena eating italian food and enjoying the historical and artistic sites.  on sunday, i traveled by train to ancona to see my friend sara.  ancona is a port city on the other side of the italian peninsula.  the sea and mountains in this area are absolutely gorgeous.  i have been spending a lot of time outdoors with sara; hiking, swimming, and walking around the old city.  in two days, i will be traveling to croatia and beyond.  ciao.