Sensory overload

George was experiencing some tummy trouble yesterday and this morning (he's recovered now), Molly argued a valid case for a day of rest (she thinks she'd make a good lawyer), and Barry was rather exhausted. I, on the other hand, felt the need to explore, so I left my lovely family behind and headed to the Vatican Museum. I'm so glad I did...'leave them behind', that is. It was rather busy and shoulder-to-shoulder in there, and I'm certain the kids would have been groaning in the first half hour, maybe Barry too. My four hour tour was best enjoyed alone without having to justify my slow pace or look for the kids being swept away with the crowds.

The Vatican Museum is truly spectacular. The art from centuries past as well as more contemporary pieces is endless. In fact, there is too much to really enjoy in half a day. There's so many sculptures and paintings demanding one's attention that I don't think anyone notices the elaborate marble floors, the stunning wood shutters, or tiny figures carved in dark corners. My senses were overloaded, and so were most peoples, I'm sure, because by the end of the visit, people were walking past Salvador Dali's and Matisse's work like it was nothing special at all. . Funny how we become so jaded when we really just want a cup of coffee and a place to sit.

Barry, George and Molly met me outside the Vatican at 4:30, and we headed out for dinner and a walk about the city. The rain drizzled on us a few times, but we managed to stay dry. You don't really need to visit museums in Rome, the city itself is a living museum...