February 14, 471

Today was my wife's birthday! I took my wife onto Aventine Hill for a picnic lunch with our good friends Angelo and Gabriella. The view was stunning, a picturesque blue sky over the Tiber. We had bread, cheese, dried fruit, and lettuce. Angelo had just finished his required military service and was enjoying being back in Rome.

After the meal, I went back to the Forum for an uneventful day at my glassware stand. Greek slaves were delivered to Rome today and were bought by wealthy patricians for more money than I could earn in 50 years. The weather was wonderful but a bit chilly. I hope to pack away my wool coat in the next month.

Dear Journal,