As the year winds down, I find myself reflecting deeply on the chapters that have brought me here—living my dream life in the Eternal City. Rome, with its timeless beauty and rich history, continues to enchant me, offering not only the vibrancy of urban life but also spaces of quiet solace. It’s in these moments, surrounded by Rome’s breathtaking blend of culture and nature, that I feel the deepest gratitude and prepare my heart for the new year.
Gratitude for Rome’s Endless Wonders
Living in Rome is like living in a perpetual art gallery. Every turn reveals a masterpiece, from the grandeur of the Colosseum to the serenity of the Tiber winding through the city. Yet, what I appreciate most about this city is the way it effortlessly balances its bustling energy with tranquil green spaces—a harmony that reflects the balance I strive to cultivate in my own life.
Whether I’m meandering through the narrow streets of Trastevere, discovering a hidden trattoria, or sitting on the Spanish Steps soaking in the atmosphere, there’s always something to remind me why I worked so hard to make this dream a reality. The city itself feels like a living metaphor for resilience and reinvention—qualities I’ve embraced in my own journey to this point.
Nature’s Quiet Gift in the Heart of Rome
While Rome’s history and architecture are mesmerizing, it’s in the city’s green havens where I find the peace to reflect and recharge. Parks like Villa Borghese, Villa Ada, and Villa Doria Pamphili have become my sanctuaries.
In Villa Borghese, I lose myself among the manicured gardens, fountains, and sweeping views of the city from Pincio Terrace. It’s the perfect place to pause, journal, and reflect on the year’s milestones. Villa Ada, with its wilder, more natural atmosphere, invites long walks and moments of quiet introspection. And then there’s Villa Doria Pamphili, the largest park in Rome, where I can stroll for hours, soaking in the expansive greenery and letting my thoughts wander as freely as the wind through the trees.
These spaces remind me of the importance of finding balance—of seeking beauty and tranquility even amid the vibrant chaos of life in a city like Rome.
Reflecting and Setting Intentions
As I spend time in these parks, breathing deeply in the crisp winter air, I think about the journey that brought me here. Moving to Rome was a dream I nurtured for 18 years, and now, as I prepare to close another chapter, I’m focusing on the next steps. What lessons have I learned this year? What do I want to carry forward into the new year?
This is the time to set intentions, not resolutions. For me, the new year is less about rigid goals and more about creating space for joy, connection, and growth. Whether it’s deepening my connection with Rome, continuing my personal and professional development, or simply enjoying more lazy afternoons in the sunshine at Villa Borghese, my focus is on cultivating a life that feels abundant and balanced.
An Invitation to Reflect
If you find yourself drawn to this reflective time of year, I invite you to take a moment for yourself. Whether you’re in the middle of a bustling city or surrounded by nature, find a space to pause and ask yourself: What am I grateful for? What do I want to bring with me into the new year?
Rome teaches me daily that life is a blend of the ancient and the new, the busy and the serene. It’s a dance of contrasts, a reminder to embrace every moment fully. I hope the lessons I’ve learned in this extraordinary city inspire you to find your own version of balance and joy as we step into a fresh chapter.