Coming home from Rome was a cocktail of emotions – equal parts bittersweet and exhilarating! Packing my bag for the trip back was like a puzzle, with all my carefully chosen gifts tucked between layers of clothes and shoes, like precious artifacts. There were fragile souvenirs wrapped in scarves, quirky trinkets stuffed in socks, and a few last-minute finds I wedged into every available space. Navigating the airport felt like I was on a covert mission to protect my stash; I was holding my breath every time my bag got scanned, silently praying for a safe passage for my new Italian treasures. With flights arranged and my airport itinerary set, I was running through every detail like a pro – nothing was going to make me miss that flight home!
Back in the States, though, it took a moment to shake the Rome dream off my shoulders. There was no more ancient architecture around every corner, and my mind was still trying to adjust to not hearing Italian or getting that espresso jolt from every café. Settling back into everyday life felt a bit strange, like I’d been pulled out of one world and plopped back into another. But slowly, home started to feel familiar again, and unpacking my suitcase became a fun little reunion with all the memories I’d brought back. Adjusting back to life here hasn’t been easy, but with each souvenir on the shelf and every story ready to tell, I’ve got a slice of Rome with me – and I can’t wait to share it!
