Aside from a few glitches related to jet lag and driving, we have enjoyed our time in Italy, so far — especially the cultural activities we’ve embraced.

Of course, there’s the great food! Our eating in Rome was mostly on the go, except for dinner which we ate in the plaza at Campo del Fiori. Our dinner the last night at La Carbonara was a special highlight, complete with the bacon and white sauce namesake specialty.

But the the biggest culinary news from Rome involves breakfast and afternoon snacks: Karen now enjoys Cappuccino! It’s true! It started with an early morning “when in Rome” gesture, and has blossomed into a full-fledged craving. She even went back to add a cappuccino to our initial afternoon cafe order in Florence.

For dinner at Villa Petrea, we’ve been alternating between our own cooked meal and professionally prepared creations by our resident chef. Maria has cooked three fabulous dinners, with full courses and great desserts.

We’ve also enjoyed the long days that remind us of the sun patterns in Seattle, and each day is broken up by the mid-day siesta — a time from 1:00 to 4:00 pm when very little is happening and even most shops are closed. And those afternoons are often enjoyed with a visit to the Gelateria.

But wait … there’s even bigger news … Jocelyn now officially enjoys gelato. She only accepts “Limone” for now, but we’ll take it! She’s had it twice, most recently Wednesday afternoon in Firenze.