We have done SO much since I last wrote! We have been super busy and have had long days! Most mornings our wakeup call has been 6:15 and breakfast by 7. By the time bed checks are done each night most of us have been ready to pass out! I am proud to say that since I last wrote, EVERYONE in the delegation (including the leaders) made it to the top of Mount Vesuvius! Some of the group even opted for a crater tour where they got to actually go in to the crater of the volcano! It was quite a climb but worth it to be able to look inside an active volcano!
We spent some time seeing the highlights of Rome including the Vatican, Coliseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon and more! Our tour guide in the Vatican was American so we didn’t have to worry about understanding the accent. This was a highlight for many, especially once we saw the Sistine Chapel.
After Rome we spent some time in Assisi. Our time at the school for disabled students was difficult but rewarding. I think it humbled all of us and put the things we complain about in perspective.
Yesterday was our Full On day which you have to experience to understand the full impact. The highlights of the day were learning how to break a wood block with our hands and rappelling down a 100 foot castle wall. Despite my fear of heights, I even did it with the encouragement of my team (Thanks Spartans!!!.
Today we visited Florence and Pisa which was of course highlighted by seeing the David and Leaning Tower.
In between all of this we’ve found time to eat some delicious meals, shop, and of course, bond. We are more than half way through our 20 days together and it’s going fast!