While on the tram, Collin spotted an advertisement for a Mucha exhibit. Alphonse Mucha is one of our absolute favorite artists and we were thrilled to stumble upon an exhibit.

We made our way over to the Altare della Patria and into the lovely gallery. Also, on show was a massive Barbie collection (which mom and dad came back to see the next day). Walking through the gallery just solidified our love for Mucha's paintings.

Collin and I had been lucky enough to be visiting Prague earlier in the year when Mucha's Slav Epic was being showcased.

Painting after painting brought to light his immense talent for advertising plays and cultural happenings.

We took our time looking at each piece and then headed out to get some lunch. We found a quaint cafe steps from the Pantheon but away from all the hubbub. It's amazing what you can find just a few blocks over.

After finishing our meal we found one of Rome's famous shops to finally indulge in our favorite thing about Italy - gelato.

The Pantheon took my breath away the same way it did ten years ago.

It's an incredible architectural feat and as we took mom and dad inside we were in awe yet again.

The next day we decided to explore the ruins near the Altare della Patria and then make our way over to the Coliseum.

We had all agreed not to pay to go inside but instead walked around and took in the views from all angles. I went in on my first visit to Rome and although it was a sight to behold I don't think skipping the chaos inside diminishes its grandeur.

We found a great vantage point to admire the Roman amphitheatre.

We made our way through winding streets, finding hidden gems, and made a wish in the Trevi Fountain.

It was insanely busy but we managed to squeeze our way over to throw in our euros and make a wish. I guess mine came true ten years ago when I wished to come back to the eternal city.

Walking through a side street I found the exact shop I had bought my niece a gift on my first visit. Mom and I decided to snap a picture with Pinocchio to commemorate the find.

The Spanish Steps were unfortunately being renovated but we were able to snap a great picture thanks to my very strong husband.

Mom and dad loved all the glittery shops surrounding the Spanish Steps. Gucci, Prada, Versace...too rich for my blood but I love looking in the windows all the same.

That night Collin and I decided to take a night stroll to the Coliseum one last time. And we stopped in front of the 'wedding cake' for a quick snap.

We heard distant thunder and decided it was best to head back to the tram. While on our way the sky opened up. We ended up running to the tram as there was absolutely no where to take cover. Luckily it had just arrived and we were able to run inside, drenched from head to toe.