On my second to the last day in Rome, I decided to give the library another try. In the past the library has been so warm that just trying to locate a book has left me dripping sweat on the pages. I also had found that the old wooden chairs with arms were too small for me. Several times when i went to the library to read something we would be discussing in seminar, I went in the early morning or late evening, and sat on a step stool in front of an open window.This morning when I went it felt stuffy and warm in the reserve room where the books were I wanted to consult. So I selected the books I needed and went in search of a good place to sit. On a lower level I found the row of reserved desks. I knew we were allowed to sit at them if they were not in use. One of our directors, Eleanor Leach, was at her reserve desk. I went to the end of the row and found an empty space. I was delighted to discover I actually could fit in the chair. After 10 minutes or so I began to feel comfortable and was able to read and take notes for the next four or five hours. 

My group had planned to have a going away party at 6:30pm out on the terrace off the top floor the Academy. I hadn't been there before and thought this was an important event to attend. Since it's customary to bring something to a party, I set off to my usual hunting ground near Via Carini. I was surprised to find most shops closed up. After walking around for a few minutes, I noticed an open shop. It turned out to be a wine shop. I had met someone along the way who said I might just want to buy a bottle of cheap wine. I found a bottle they were practically giving away, so I got that. I figured it couldn't have too much alcohol in it. How much can grape juice ferment in only a year?

We had a great time at our party. Various people brought things to eat. The terrace has a beautiful view of Rome. For instance, I could see the Colosseum.  The night wore on, and we had a time of giving out named awards to each person in the group. We laughed together, we gave hugs to those who were leaving the next day, and made plans to do things together on Sunday, which for many of us would be our last day in Rome -- at least for this trip.