L'Ultimo Giorno

Thursday, June 19th

Today was filled with more lasts.

I had my last day at my internship, in which I finished editing the archeological museum guidebook (which took forever, thanks for asking) and kept my badge because they didn't ask for it back (I think they forgot). Once we finished, I went and got my last tomato, mozzarella, and basil sandwich from the pasticceria down the street—seriously so good. (Have I mentioned how I love tomatoes here and hate them in America? 'Cause I do.)

the Tuscan landscape

The rest of the day was spent getting the last souvenirs on my list and enjoying my last day in Siena. I am truly going to miss this city and the ability to just sit in the Piazza del Campo and read on a beautiful day. I really wish we had an equivalent of piazzas in America. We've got public parks, etc. but there is nothing like a big piazza where people hang around, eat, meet up with friends, and love life. I will miss it!

young Anna (bella, no?)

Tonight Shauna and I had our last dinner with Anna and Marcello. It was delicious as always—spaghetti alla carbonara, fillet, salad, bread, and an apple torta dessert. The best part was when Anna brought out the old photos of her and Marcello that she showed at dinner last night, because Shauna wasn't there. There were so many pictures of a young, handsome Marcello and in each one he was with a different girl, none of whom were Anna. She assured us, however, that she wasn't jealous at all, since she's the one who ended up with him. Love it. She also pointed out Marcello's receding hairline in every picture.

After looking through all the photos Shauna and I asked Anna for some of her recipes to bring home, which I'm very excited about. I can't wait to make my own spaghetti alla carbonara! Mmmmm.

my last night on Via San Marco

Around 10, most of the people in our group met up for a last gelato at KopaKabana (our favorite spot) and then went for a walk in the Campo. A few people had a speed-walking contest around the piazza that was very entertaining, and other than that we mostly reminisced. This was our last time all together, which is really sad. We have all become such close friends that it seems unreal that I won't be seeing any of them anymore (possibly ever, since I'm not returning to BYU). But I guess that's what Facebook is for, right? I have been blessed to be in the company of really good people and fun friends. I got lucky.

So, I am headed for Rome in the morning! I am way excited to have one day in Rome as a bookend for my trip, bringing it full circle. I plan to take tons of pictures and listen to Dean Martin songs all day. Then, Saturday morning I head home! What a whirlwind. I really cannot believe it is over.

A domani,
Ciao!