Roaming the streets of Rome

I always have a tough time disconnecting. The sensation of always being “on” has become my reality. Even Sunday afternoons at home are spent program planning, updating social networks or list-making for the upcoming week.  I “spend” time with my family and daughter, but am I really there in spirit? After a couple of days in Italy with them, I have come to the cruel realization that I am not always present. The disconnect that I have forced upon myself has been very liberating and well needed for me and my family.  Yes, I admit to being “plugged in” too often. You see, it is hard to not be there all of the time for my clients of which the majority are online.  I feel a need to be there for them and answer their questions almost immediately.

These past 4 days have been amazing on so many levels.  I am seeing the world through Ariana’s eyes. I am REALLY listening to her.  What a smart girl.  She is entertaining, humorous and makes the most honest and unjaded comments.    After a long flight and stopover in Paris, she was ready to roll.  My husband needed a nap, but after freshening up Ariana and I hit Campo Dei Fiori in search of the best gelato.  I don’t know if it was the best, but she savoured every moment (I even had a lick or two;).  Campo Dei Fiori is an amazing area in Rome where students and bohemians flock to with great shopping, and restaurants and bars.  We spent the day getting to know our area and chasing pigeons (Ariana’s favourite pastime).  The next day brought 8 hours of walking visiting The Panteheon, Piazza Navona, Piazza Di Spagna, and the Trevi Fountain; where the 3 of us threw in our coins with wishful thoughts.  Of course I can’t tell you mine, or it won’t come true, however, Ariana’s wish of more gelato was granted true despite blurting it out.  It’s awesome how a 5 year old can walk for 8 hours and not complain.  The trick is playing guessing games, spy games and gelato stops along the way.  Seeing Rome through the eyes of a babe is so unlike my own experience 7 years before.

I know when this vacation is over and we return back to our routine and habitual life, I won’t have the same time and undivided attention for my family, unfortunately, that is the reality of life; my life. I will however make more “present” time with my daughter.  If Ariana’s coin granted her wish, I know mine will come true as well.

More to come on our visit to my father’s home town, Venice and being reunited with my sister! Oh yes, and how I am managing to find some balance of nutrition ,exercise and sleep while travelling!

I hope you are all well!