International Bathrooms
I have never been out of North America before this trip, and now I prize our dirty public bathrooms more than ever. There are no seats on the public toilets!!! Girls are expected to squat or stand and aim just like men. I am thoroughly impressed with their ability to do so. And you have to pay to use most of them. Like I am going to pay 1 euro to squat over a hole, do my business, and have a limited amount of toilet paper and water to clean up. I don't think so. I will be holding it until the hotel from now on.
Italy is beautiful. It reminds me of home. Montana and Italy have actual mountains, the humidity is about the same and the countryside is natural, still beautiful and full of farmland. I am still a little frustrated that we are rushing everywhere and don't have a chance to shop and take in all the city. The experience of Rome was short lived. However, yesterday, at the square, there was a really cool protest to get the troops out of Iraq. I wanted to protest too, but Marion stated that we would not engage in any "political conversation" with anyone. I was upset, but now I am thinking that it was a good idea because I spotted some protestors holding a huge banner with the Grim Reaper on it and he had the American Flag over his shoulder. Some people don't like America. I wanted to buy a rainbow flag that said "Pace" or Peace on it. Never got the chance because the polizia had the streets blocked off. I will find one before we leave.
As far as the food goes, some meals are good, and some are not. We always start with bread and pasta and have a meat dish and dessert. Italian Desserts: PERFECTION. Gellato will be my financial downfall.
We are on the way to Venice. Anna Maria is doing a great job. She is quite funny. She knows about all the good things to buy. Peace.
Krista Purcell '08