In my youth I spent a year in Rome studying Art History

It was a special time in my life which I have never forgotten

I never returned to Rome as I wanted to cherish the memories of the time

And not let my sad eyes become trapped in the reality of the city that I loved so much

But now I have to go to Rome as my professor and mentor has died

And his widow has asked me to attend his funeral which is being held in the city

I am leaving on Wednesday and will stay for a few days and maybe will visit a few haunts

Jane has already packed my case as I am rather disorganised and she has also given me a mug

Which shows the Sunderland team from the early 1970s as I support the club having been born there

I am looking forward to sitting at my hotel window watching the city slowly go mad below me

Jane has also packed a couple of bags of my favourite coffee which I know bring back many memories