so like when in Rome . . .

So anyway, no, one should not - under any circumstances - "do like the Romans do" when in Rome. Lord knows, you're a complete and utter idiot (not that the Romans are "complete and utter idiots" mind you) if you do!

No, that is not what I mean at all, it's just that you will be 'exposed' and totally abused - by the locals - if you do. After all, abusing your "fellow" Roman seems to be a local custom, followed only by the expressing of dismissive disdain and unabashed dismay showered on the tourist class (of which today I find myself a classic example of being, and you know how I - if back in San Francisco - despise tourist)

So satiated and serene (in spite of the news from London) I acquiesced to the most charming of invites: "look at that beautiful day, come, let us be gay"

Knowing full well what was about to befall me I 'merrily' accompanied "the person to whom I'm related by marriage" out to be amongst our 'class' and no, a bigger idiot you will not find no matter how hard and/or how long you seek him!

So, coupled with an American school boy's knowledge of Italian (and no matter how often we have been in Rome (17 times) it has yet to improve; so why do I bother? See the bigger idiot comment above) off we 'adventured' to the fountain, to the steps and to lunch.

Driving in Rome - Not Recommended! - However, eating in Rome, Oh My God Yes!

And now this: 

We would like, again, to thank you for all of your kind words regarding Steffi, unfortunately, we were informed this morning she has suffered a stroke, which has left her (temporarily "they claim") without the full use of her left side. The reasons behind this is not exactly clear, but full range of motion and use of her arm, hand and leg while not totally there now, they feel comfortable with saying will be regained. 

Her sister Jenni has flown over from San Francisco and advised us to "stay away", besides there's "nothing you guys can do but interfere with the medical professionals and stress her out more" so yeah, while I'm being "forced to play tourist", all of this is happening to Steff

"Life's a bitch, then you die" But until then "Keep Calm and Carry On"