With all of the language learning talk that has been going on around here, I decided to test my skills and head to Lamezia Terme’s finest movie theater to check out Dan Brown’s latest hit. While I’d love to say I loved Angels and Demons, I just can’t. It is not you, Mr. Hanks … it is me. I just wasn’t ready for that kind of Italian-language only commitment.
 

Photo: Roaring Forties Press

 
However, what I am ready for is Rome’s Angels and Demons: An Insider’s Guide, written by Angela K. Nickerson and photographed by Christine Cantera of Miss Expatria. The guide is just under 50 pages and is a history book of Rome’s best piazzas, churches and obelisks as visualized in the book or seen on the Big Screen. Side notes and travel tips for visitors are included throughout the guide. Download your FREE copy here.
 
In other Italy-related news, Chicago authorities recently found 1,600 stolen Italian artifacts worth an estimated $5-$10 million in a suburban bungalow. Among the loot were ancient Etruscan artifacts that date back to 900 B.C., books and documents written by popes and kings and a handwritten preface to a book that was penned by Mussolini.
 

Photo: Chicago Breaking News Center

 
Elsewhere in the blogosphere … I was recently interviewed by Lulu of Calabrisella Mia where we discussed blogging, writing and finding inspiration. I am also scheduled to be a guest blogger next Friday at City Girl Lifestyle where the site’s owner and I will exchange perspectives on how being an expat has changed us.
 
And speaking of change, I’m heading to Texas on Tuesday to tackle the state capital and be a blushing bridesmaid in a friend’s wedding, spend some much needed recoop time with my family and get away from this grueling southern Italian heat (because everyone knows how breezy southeast Texas summers are).
 
So starting Tuesday, I’ll update My Bella Vita three times a week. Next week, I’ll post Tuesday (because those are sacred travel tip days), Thursday (to wrap up the Saint series) and Friday … just because. After next week, I’ll post Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays through the end of July.
 
In other blogging news, Marryann of Finding La Dolce Vita has called it quits. Interestingly enough however, one of her last posts was still available through my Reader. Given her recent departure from the blogosphere and Joe of Italyville’s touching post regarding his friend’s decision, I found it fitting to include some of her post here.
 

FRIENDS: Will say “hello.”
ITALIAN FRIENDS: Will give you a big hug and a kiss.
 
FRIENDS: Call your parents Mr. and Mrs.
ITALIAN FRIENDS: Call your parents mom and dad.
 
FRIENDS: Will eat at your dinner table and leave.
ITALIAN FRIENDS: Will spend hours there, talking, laughing and just being together.
 
FRIENDS: Know a few things about you.
ITALIAN FRIENDS: Could write a book with direct quotes from you.
 
FRIENDS: Are for awhile.
ITALIAN FRIENDS: Are for life.

 
Thank you for your contributions to the blogosphere over these last few years, Maryann. I join Joe and your other blogging buddies in wishing you the best on your new ventures.
 
Buon Weekend!
 

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