Exploring Monteverde

Brittany and I are finally settled in and figuring out how to navigate Monteverde. Today we found not one, but two parks near by The American University of Rome's campus. The first one we found is a large park about five minutes from campus and the other is smaller, but is across the street from campus. You're probably wondering why we did not know about the one across the street by now, so let me explain. The parks are generally enclosed by large stone walls and iron gates, which personally makes me feel like I am walking straight into Narnia from the bustling streets of Rome. Today the gates were wide open because it was so sunny and warm out, so we finally saw what was lurking behind them. Rome never ceases to amaze me with its hidden wonders.

In other news, we finally figured out grocery shopping — for the most part. Today was our fourth or fifth trip to the supermarket, so it would be really depressing if we did not finally figure it out. The supermarkets in Rome are underground and ours is about a fifteen minute walk from our apartment. We can only buy as much as we can carry back up the hill to our place. This means we have to go to the market multiple times a week. Luckily, there is also one of the best fruit and vegetable markets just below our apartment, so that helps a bit. We also discovered a deli and delicious bakery along our walk to campus. The only thing we cannot seem to grasp is, when are the gelaterias open?! If anyone knows, please tell me. We passed about five throughout the day and none were open. I was almost in tears. Almost. Anyways, below are some dishes I have made myself over the last few days and some of my recent grocery purchases.

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