Ostia and Opera

Today was something out of a travel book.  Not only did I tour the ruins of Rome's first major port (and I did it in style, believe me) but I also spent the afternoon in the Roman Lido, the beach!  I am getting tanner and tanner every day, I'm worried I'll come home and not fit in!  The Medeterrainian was cold but that was alright with me.  The day was as close to perfect as it could have been.  The beach time was well needed and thoroughly relaxing.  Later we came back to the convent for something else that was well needed--a shower and shave--and then went down (up?) to the Piazza Espagna and the Spanish steps.  This guy was diligent and found where there was an Opera group preforming tonight and Stebbs and I had dinner together and caught the show.  It was in a Gothic Anglican Church that was about three blocks from the plaza.  The setting was intimate which made the singing all the more impressive.  The mezzo was almost as seduvtive and enchanting as she was talented.  The entire show was engaging.  We had a blast.  The plan was to take a taxi but it seems that the Taxi drivers all are on strike, so we walked back to the convent.  It's not terribly far, and Rome is a beautiful city to walk at night.  I know I keep saying this again and again, but I truly love it here, I can see why so many people come to see it.  There's always more to say, but for now, I am finished.  -Z