The month of May has been filled with adventure, family, celebration, and unforgettable moments as Gene and I traveled through Italy. What started as a trip for a beautiful wedding quickly turned into a journey full of memories we will treasure forever.

From wandering through the timeless streets of Rome, to driving through the breathtaking countryside of Tuscany for Juliann and Jake’s wedding weekend, and finally making our way to the magical canals of Venice — every stop brought new experiences, beautiful scenery, amazing food, laughter, and time spent with the people we love most.

One of the greatest joys of this trip was sharing Italy with our nephew Tommy and watching him experience its beauty, culture, food, and charm for the first time. Watching Italy through his eyes made the trip even more special and reminded us once again why this country always holds such a special place in our hearts.

Rome: Timeless Beauty Around Every Corner

There is something magical about Rome. No matter how many times we visit, the city always feels alive with history, energy, and beauty. Every street seems to tell a story.

We spent our days wandering through charming cobblestone streets, stopping for espresso breaks, admiring stunning architecture, and, of course, eating some incredible pasta and wine along the way. Rome has this beautiful way of slowing you down and encouraging you to simply enjoy the moment.

Favorite Moments in Rome

• Morning walks before the city fully wakes up
• Outdoor cafés and people watching
• A crazy bicycle tour in the middle of rush hour
• Discovering hidden little alleys and charming shops
• Sharing Italy’s beauty and culture with Tommy for the first time

Favorite Rome Spots

• Shopping around The Spanish Steps
• Piazza Navona at sunset and our favorite restaurant: Osteria dell’ Anima
• The Colosseum — still breathtaking every single time
• Trevi Fountain early in the morning, before the crowds arrive
• A simple aperitivo break with Aperol Spritz at a Rooftop

all phone photos for this post

A Few Rome Tips

• Wake up early for major landmarks if you want beautiful photos and fewer crowds.
• Comfortable shoes are absolutely essential.
• Slow down and enjoy long meals — Italy is meant to be experienced, not rushed.
• Don’t over-plan every minute. Some of the best moments happen unexpectedly.