That evening we proceed to Sant’ Alessio all’Aventino where the beautiful church perched up on a hill overlooking Rome, was waiting for us. Also Fabio and Fr. Roberto was waiting for us to go over details for the private vow renewal ceremony. The basilica is breathtaking. Literally takes your breath away with the natural light shining in over the 13th century basilica. It was beautifully set up for the intimate ceremony for just us. Two of my sisters and my brother did the readings and my parents had their vows renewed and rings blessed. It was one of the best ceremonies and moments I have ever been apart of. There was not a dry eye amongst us. 

My travels took me from Vienna on a 4 1/2 hour train journey to Innsbruck. Innsbruck is apart of the Tyrol region and some of you may know it from it being a destination for the Winter Olympics. It is a city located in the Alps, which makes it absolutely breathtaking. Especially if you get to experience the views I did!

I think one of my favorite parts of the whole lesson was learning about the proper etiquette. The etiquette from what to wear to how to ask and accept (or decline) a dance. If you attend a ball with a group of people, which supposedly you typically do, all the men will dance with all the women of the table.

My final stop and journey of Germany has ended in Mainz. This city reminds me of the others, but it, too, has it’s own very special stories. Like most other, the cities highlights are the gorgeous churches that are within the city. They have different denominations but mostly lie Catholic.

The week is here! I cannot believe that I leave in six days. I have dreamt of traveling to Europe for as long as I can remember and I am so thankful for the opportunity. As most know, I like to always be prepared for everything and at this point, I am comfortable with where I am at but know I cannot prepare exactly for this trip.