THE PHIPPS FIVE: Our First Italian Road Trip

This past weekend was our first chance to take the car out on the open road and experience a "road trip" Italian style. Our annual Fall Staff Conference was held in Pomezia this year. Pomezia is a small town (almost a suburb) just south of Rome and is roughly 450km (280mi) from Bologna. So, we packed up the car like we've done in years past and headed out.

The first new experience for us is that almost all the major freeways (autostrade) in Italy are toll roads. So, from Bologna to Rome and back was roughly $65 just for tolls. Also, because the Autostrada is a closed system, there are only so many places you can pull off the road for food and gas. For Jen and I, these were noticable differences which required some adjustments, but for the kids it still boiled down to the unviersally asked question, "Are we there yet?" It's been a little over a year since our kids have "road-tripped" and have subsequently lost their roadtrip muscles. I don't think we had even left the Bologna area before Gavin began to verbally wonder when we'd arrive.

While the more famous German "Autobahn" is known for it's high-speed access, the Italian varient definately has limits very similiar to the States. 130km (80mph) is the max speed in most areas though it varies. But, unlike the States, there are very few stretches of straight road. For me, it's really a joy to actually "drive" versus pointing my hood in the right direction and setting the cruise control. For the rest of family, motion sickness is becoming a more common friend. :) The stretch from Bologna to Florence is very twisty and snakes through various mountains.

Once we arrived in Pomezia for the conference, our family had a great time. It is such blessing to gather with other missionaries and be encouraged by sharing stories of similiar experiences, hearing from the Word, and a enjoying a little downtime. This time is especially encouraging for our kids, as they get to play with their "American friends" for a few days. One afternoon is dedicated entirely to the kids, as all the staff put together a "Fall Carnival" full of games, food, music, candy, and fun. For Jen and I, it's a time to gain focus and encouragement as we move forward in ministry. We are only together with all the other Italian staff twice a year, but those times really are a breath of fresh air for us.

After receiving such rest and input, it was a huge blessing to be able to get back into our car and drive home, instead of taking a shuttle to the train station, occupying kids for a three hour train ride and then bussing back to our apartment. We actually arrived home not physically exhausted! We hope you enjoy the pictures!