The first time I tasted a tomato in Italy, it was like no other tomato I had ever tried. Sweet, sun-kissed, and alive with flavor.
It was like the first time I saw some of Rome's most famous spots. Unforgettable. Breathtaking. Beauty that changes your life if you let it.
As a visitor, it's easy to be overwhelmed by the crowds and people-watching and miss some of the majesty of this city. Living here, the distractions are even worse. You really have to pause, take a few deep breaths and look again. Sometimes I'll be off somewhere in my mind, then I turn the corner and it hits me. This is Rome.
Even a neon sign becomes romantic.
This week as I met with friends to say goodbye, I realized that my connection with this city and its people will always be strong. Arriving here 6 months pregnant, it honestly felt like the whole city was waiting to meet Roman. Now strangers touch Roman's hair when we walk by in the stroller. Sure, I don't know where their hands have been and part of me wants to be angry, but Romans have such warmth, especially when it comes to children that I have to smile. Three separate shop owners shed tears saying goodbye to us, and not because of the money they will lose due to our departure. It's because once you befriend a Roman, it's a serious friendship.
I became a mother here. That will always be my link to the Eternal City.
But saying goodbye is also exhilarating when I think about what's around the bend. The kisses and hugs from the people who know me best in the world and who will welcome us home and feed us. See you soon from greener pastures.
Addio Roma, ti voglio bene assai. Goodbye Rome, I love you very much.
I don't know if you speak french or not so I'll wirte in english, but I just wanted to tell you how much I love your blog, and especially this post. It's very moving. Take care :)
ReplyDeleteI feel a little sad and I'm not going anywhere... Cheers to new beginnings.
ReplyDeleteHi there I just came across your lovely blog - beautiful photos!!!
ReplyDeletePicture me giving you a grande abbraccio and just saying arrivederci! The photos are beautiful, just like your heart
ReplyDelete24 hours of sunshine, Chloé: Merci de ton commentaire, c'est vraiment gentil..bienvenue sur mon blog!
ReplyDeleteDenise: yes! to new beginnings it is!!
Ladybird: glad to have you reading. hubby takes the photos, he's getting good :)
Amelia, you are so sweet, I can't believe I've found lovely people in the blogosphere, I never even imagined!!
Love that first shot! Good luck with your new adventure. Can't wait to see what you cook up next.
ReplyDeleteSorry you're leaving, but at least I can stop seething with jealousy now.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post, culminating in the sentence about motherhood. I admit I had the goosebumps and teary eyes. It is so nice you get to go home to your family and then other exciting adventures await you around the corner. I am a little jealous, I admit. Have a safe trip. Ciao dall'Italia!
ReplyDeleteI suppose by now you are someplace other than Italy. It's a little sad, leaving such a beautiful country but starting your life all over again in another place is always exciting.
ReplyDeleteI hope we hear from you soon!
Magda
Hi Nicole, come check out my blog: there is something waiting for you!
ReplyDeletehttp://cookingitalianinthemidwest.blogspot.com/2011/06/best-potato-salad-and-awards.html
I love this! Beautiful photos of a beautiful city! I love how you mention, "you became a Mother here..." Such a strong statement!
ReplyDeleteSorry I have been a bad blog reader recently...I have had tons going on..unlike you who is moving clear across the ocean! LOL!
I didn't get around to reading this post until just now. Some of your best writing yet. Lovely!
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