Utterly disappointed that it only took me 15 minutes to hike Vesuvius — I was really hoping for something much more challenging.

Utterly astounded at and by the view, the volcano itself, the scale of the massive destruction and reminded yet again — how small we are in comparison to this world at large.

Also, should one ever doubt who runs the world? Just reference this sight for a reminder.

In the words of my beloved Beyonce, GIRLS.

Also, Herculaneum. Is one of the single best sights I’ve ever stepped foot on. In my life.

Words continue to fail. True genius at work. More reminders: not much has changed, all these thousands of years later.

Much remains the same, as it always will – – and that, my People, is human nature.