Ever Fought a Gypsy?

Hello, hello!
I've sunken into my couch and turned off the lights. Now I'm staring into my computer screen feeling a bit like Carrie Bradshaw. But at least my stories are more wholesome.
Being abroad is all about FIRSTS. And today, mine was riding a train! It was a little loud, a little dirty, and exactly what I was expecting it to be. On the return it was pitch black and sounded like pigs were being slaughtered whenever we stopped.
The train station...sigh. First, we got there about ten minutes before it departed, you know, adding to the suspense and drama of hopping on a train. Well, the ticket machine ATE my ten euro bill, and we had no time wait in line to argue with the Italian clerk to get my money back. THEN, the lines were long and we had to get the next train.
While buying our tickets, a gypsy slinked over to us. Gypsies...you feel bad for them for the first week while you're here. Then you just want to roll your eyes every time they come up to you or, sometimes, you push them.
For example: Olivia was getting her ticket and the change back out of the machine. A gypsy came up, asking for money, and ALWAYS saying "Grazie" to you to make you feel bad about not giving her any. Olivia said "Non grazie," Sabrina looked her in the eyes and repeatedly said "No," and I diverted eye contact because that's what has been most effective (you give them an inch...). She came into our half-circle surrounding the machine, started touching it, and tried to take Olivia's change out of the receptacle! Uhh, wha---?! Olivia had to forcibly slam the woman's wrist in the machine, and Sabrina elbowed her out of the way. Yeah, that's right, my friends fought a gypsy today.
So, first uneventful train ride. We got out of the station and were a bit disillusioned. THIS is it? Arezzo, where "La Vita e Bella" was filmed? We found a book stand and I bought some of Boccaccio's poetry. At least I have THAT to remember Arezzo by...
So, we walked closer to the downtown...and immediately were blown away. Arezzo is magnificent. It's on a bunch of hills, but everything is close together, so even when you get lost you can easily find your way back. There are several piazzas and TONS of churches that are breathtaking. We went to San Francesco church, and I lit two candles: one for Mama and one for PaJoe. I'm not Catholic and have never lit a candle before, but I do believe in the power of prayer because I believe in the power of God. It was awesome to be able to have a visual of those two prayers and two loved-ones.
Later, stumbled upon a park that had spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside. Pictures tomorrow. THEN, we came across (GUESS!) a wedding. The bride was gorgeous, the groom was sexy, and the attendees wore designer jeans and blazers. So. Attractive.
It was in this cathedral so we didn't know if we could go in, but like that stops us anyway! It was one of the most beautiful churches I have EVER been in. A pope was buried there, too (Umberto something...). I'll put up those pictures as well.
We also found a weird Renaissance-y/Oktoberfest festival. I don't know. AND in the Piazza Grande, there was a huge festival for kids and karaoke for adults. Loved it.
We ate dinner at a chill place. I had asparagus risotto! Mmmmmm. It was only seven euros, including my bottled water!
Then, hopped on the train, bought my parents tickets for when they visit (WHOOP!), and walked home alone on well-lit streets. I didn't feel uncomfortable for a moment.
Well, I'm off to bed now - it's just me tonight! The girls and I hope to go to Bologna tomorrow.
Arrivederci!