Finding Tranquility

[slideshow]

I didn’t have much luck with my homework Saturday night but I think I did Sunday afternoon.

To recap you, the past couple of weeks have been another reminder that I need to be careful in my surroundings. It appears that I have been feeling too comfortable in my Roman neighbourhood. To top it all off, I was followed down the tiny street to my apartment last night. The man came up behind me and when I turned to look he moved up right beside me. His conversation started and the look in his eyes was also a warning to me because I have seen that look before. I quickly glanced ahead and kept my eye on him at the same time. I saw that 2 people were coming down the stairs from the main street. They looked like tourists. I moved forward quickly made a right to turn to my building he looked at the people and then quickly asked me in Italian if I wanted to go for coffee. I said “NO” and bolted towards the front door. I noticed that he pretended to go one way but then went another. I entered my apartment safely and was relieved to hear the sounds of my neighbours at home having dinner.

The light of my weekend was my lunch at Chiostro Del Bramante. The church is only 5 minutes by foot from my apartment. The café/bistro is located on the second floor and looks over into the courtyard below. I chose the ancient Roman seating that was built into the structure (see photo slide).  There were other tables with chairs but I wanted to enjoy my view. It was so nice just to sit in tranquil surroundings. There were no waiters arguing, no one was moving me from table to table, nor was I refused a table because I was one person dining and lastly no one was approaching me with their hidden “agenda”. For the first time in awhile I sat relaxed. There were people smoking around me but that’s a given here. If you sit outside at some of the Roman restaurants where they cram tables side by side, there is usually someone who will light up while you are eating. But, that’s all part of the Roman experience.

I took my time, no one was rushing me out and I noticed others around me enjoying the same relaxing experience. Light music was playing in the background and voices were softly chatting. I had ordered the cheese, prosciutto and salami plate..I am feeling a lack of creativity in my thoughts tonight and for some reason I can’t find the words to tell you how delicious this was…I hope the photo slide will suffice : D. I’m really looking forward to going back again because it felt like a mini escape.

Later in the evening I had a new gelato experience at Gelateria del Teatro. The flavour of choice, white chocolate and basil. It was so refreshing and delicious… I think I am hooked.

Well, it’s late and I must finish my homework. I hope you enjoy the photo slide. From Bella Roma… Ciao for now!