Pensamientos de España...

Seeya Sevilla!

2009-07-16T01:07:00.000-07:00

The last week in Sevilla I was in denial, not realizing that this was actually the end, that I had to say good-bye to dear friends and teachers whether I wanted to or not. I'm more fond of saying "See you later" than "Goodbye." Hannah and I went to our favorite spots one last time.

I studied by the river to even out my tan. A policeman rode up to warn me about my purse, that a woman just like me got mugged the other day... that was comforting. I read my notes for the final exam and watched ego-driven boys jump off the 30 foot tall Puente de Triana bridge. Most of the time though I read a book called "Me Talk Pretty One Day" (it's funny for a certain humor).

Meals were filled with final laughs and jokes with José and Amparo. We found a lock on the bridge that had "Siempre Juntos Jose y Ampy." The locks are littered across the bridges. Lovers write their names and a promise, lock it to a bridge or another lock and throw the keys away to symbolize the bond they have. I bought locks for my sister and parents!

Hung out with Kike one last time, we went to an Alcazar garden concert with a Spanish guitar player. We then went out for churros con chocolate, which I could not possibly finish at midnight. I got sad saying goodbye to my real Spanish friend.

The exam was intense, but went well. We had to describe 5 photos of something we had studied - art or architecture. I will miss that class a lot; Carmen was a phenomenal, interactive teacher.

After the exam we all went out for Hagen Daas - the school was paying so I got an 8 euro waffle with ice cream and summer fruit! We hung out for a little while, then it was off to switch gears and pack for flying out. I ended up sending a bag by ground transport because it was too heavy for a flight. I'm hoping to distribute things amongst my family members for the plane ride to the states. If in doubt, people, pack light!!!

Hannah and I watched the Office that day and prepared our gifts for Jose y Amparo. Hannah drew a riverside view of Seville. I bought them Coffee, air freshener for after we leave, and DIET chocolate for Amparo to treat herself.

I saw Hannah off to her taxi at 4am the next morning and I left in a taxi at 12pm that day. I started to tear up bad when I kissed my parents goodbye. They said I have a room in Seville for whenever I come back! I will surely be back...

I met my family in Barcelona and we're now in Vic, Catalonia. Gotta go - the Spain trip is far from over!

4th of July Spanish Version

2009-07-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hola a todos! I hope your 4th of July was filled with friends and fireworks. Mine was a bit of a different story.

Saturday: Hannah and I caught a 60 person bus to

Matalascañas beach in the South of Spain for the day. Every seat was filled, roads were packed, it took 2 hours with traffic to get to the coast. We finally arrived at the windy, lush, very popular beach. There is a massive 40 foot tall rock protruding from the ocean about 20 yards from shore that used to be a naval blockade; now it serves for a wonderful jumping platform for the local daredevils. One of the brave souls who jumped off (and got scraped up) was an American graduate from UT named Ryan. He and his friend Paul were traveling throughout Europe and they spent the patriotic day with us American girls (Maycee and Deanna joined us later). The guys were really nice and we had incredibly encouraging conversations about the Lord and what great things came from the 80's! There is a common theme with the people we befriend here: 1) American boys 2) College graduates

So I put on 60 sunscreen that morning, and sweated some of it off on the 30 minute walk to the bus station. Then it washed off a bit in the chilly Atlantic water. All this to say I left that day looking like a spotted tomato! I'm infamous for uneven tans with my fair skin and determination to develop a tolerance for the sun.

Friday: backing up a bit. I decided to not go to Salamanca on this last travel weekend b/c I only had a week to book hotels, trains, and coordinate meeting up with friends from Auburn, who would have arrived the weekend I visited. Too many logistics convinced me to just chill in Seville this last weekend. So Friday was a free day and Hannah and I took full advantage of it. We enjoyed a full morning of taking advantage of the July sales at our favorite stores: MANGO, Stradivarius, H&M, and Sfera. After a filling lunch and quick siesta, we walked to the Centro in search of the Arab Bath house. Tucked away in an intimate alley in the Jewish quarter of Barrio Santa Cruz lies an original Arab bath that is a perfect break from the monotonous hot days of Sevillian summers.

We confirmed our reservations for a 32 euro 1.5hrs of bath-hopping and a 15 minute massage. While waiting I naturally struck up conversation with an Irish woman named Kera who had just spent some time with her boyfriend in Portugal. She was in Seville for a night before meeting her friend on Malaga's Mediterranean coast for the weekend. She did not know much Spanish, so she stayed close to us throughout most of the process. We all put on blue booties over our shoes and entered the dressing rooms to change into our swimsuits. Fortunately nobody went "all-natural" that afternoon.

We started our on the bottom floor in the warm salt bath. Then tried the sauna, but I felt like my face was going to melt off! Then it was off to the jet pool. There were jets that shot at your back, legs, and even a seat with bubbles coming up the bottom. I laughed a lot of the time we were in there. On our way to the next pool sequence we three girls took a tea time break in the dimly lit salon with arabic designs gracing the room from floor to ceiling. The next room consisted of a medium temperature pool that you had to wade through to reach the hot tub and ice cold tub. I cannot describe the intensity when you sit in the hot tub for 10 minutes and then dive into that cold pool - BRRRRR! Kera got a kick out of our girlish excitement to be so pampered for the day.

After frolicking in the baths, it was off to the massage (my favorite part!). Mind you, Hannah had NEVER experienced anything like this. We were ushered into the dark room, greeted by a man and woman masseuse. I went in first and the woman patted the bed, so I went to her; not thinking how awkward Hannah would get having the man masseuse. She was so funny afterwards, worried what her boyfriend would think! I tried to explain that it was his job, and nothing personal...but she still flipped out. There's nothing like a bit of pampering at the end of a long trip to feel back to normal again.

After the Arab baths we hung out and got a snack in the Centro. Hannah wrote in her journal and I walked around a bit. We had a concert in the Alcazar royal gardens that night at 10:15 and were waiting to meet up with Joel at 9:15pm. That night must have been the official "Let's get married" weekend because Hannah and I saw at least 5 brides and grooms followed by photographers and horse carriages. A violinist played Cannons on the street corner for tips. Bell towers joined in the celebrations and the night carried a bit of magic with it. Little kids were wide-eyed with excitement as well and we laughed at their shrieks to the horses.

How often do you go to a live acoustic concert in the royal gardens? Much less for 4 euros?!!! Hannah, Joel and I went to the back entrance and were greeted with a thick program and 20 song CD of summer night performers. At dusk the gardens were so romantic, regal peacocks called to one another from atop 15th century old walls, swarms of ducks guided their chicks into nearby ponds, anticipation for the concert mounted. The pace of life slowed down as the temperature cooled and the seats filled with eager locals. Manuel Iman was the artist whose fingers on the classical guitar moved with such ease and created stores of sound. Each song correlated to a plaza that affected his youth. He also surprised us with some American classics like "Sweet Home Chicago," "Moon River," and "Dancing Cheek to Cheek." The last one he pronounced "sheek tu sheek" ;) Hannah and I were overjoyed with it all. I got a bit teary the first song when it sounded a bit like how my dad plays guitar. I will forever love the acoustic because of him and my brother. What a beautiful night in Spain under the stars amidst wise palm trees and ancient castle walls.

You know you’re an ACENTO student if…

2009-06-30T07:03:00.001-07:00

You sleep in a bed that is 6” too short for you
Once the hot water is turned on you have 3.4 minutes to complete your shower.
You sleep more during the day than you do at night.
You subconsciously improve your dance and soccer skills daily by avoiding the dog caca (or air conditioner drips) on the sidewalk.
Meals consist of garbanzo bean and spinach soup 4 times a week.
You have not done real exercise in 3 months.
You can purchase a beer with your Big Mac and fries.
It has become okay for you not to shave or shower frequently.
They don’t sell meat by the pound, but by the body part.
You used to wear pants in a size 12, and now it’s a size 8.
You would not be caught dead wearing what you are right now back in the States.
You have seen bumper cars bigger than the cars they drive in Seville.
You think it’s normal to salir around 1am and return at 7am.
You have forgotten how to spell words in your own language.
You start to invent your own language a mezcla entre Spanish y English
You know about 40 other people who speak that same language!
You are addicted to McDonalds 1euro conos de helado.
You start making defense plans against the rain, considering the bridge your major point of attack.
You consider fruit and yogurt real desserts.
You are a guy, you are not gay, and you still wear capris and a pink shirt.
You have just had the best semester/summer of your life!

The other day we were out shopping and I suggested we climb the mechanical staircase or “escalera mecánica,” which you all know as an escalator… see it’s messing with my mind already!

Scrap the Schedule

2009-06-24T02:20:00.000-07:00

Toledo – What plans?

Woke up more wet than when we went to bed. Outside was beautiful with swarms of birds devouring the pesky bugs, it was Hitchcock-like. Caught the bus again with some old ladies gossiping about the latest scandals. Back in the plaza we knew how to get to the Cathedral and made our way through morning tourists. We went to a back entrance where we stepped in for free and saw much of what we had seen in other places in

Spain. I must admit that I am starting to get used to the massive cathedrals; I don’t want to lose that wonder, but it is difficult to maintain after touring about 5+ cathedrals in a month.

Wandered around and found the church of Santo Tomé which housed El Greco’s “Burial of the Count of Orgaz.” It was worth the 2,30euro. Kept wandering and found a monastery that was going to house the bodies of King Ferdinand and Isabella, however Granada won over their dead bodies! Beautiful cloister with a well, and thick chains outside that used to imprison the Christians – they became a Reconqest symbol of being freed from historical Muslim repression. (Listen to Chris Tomlin’s “Amazing Grace”)

Hannah and I then decided to scrap plans and just explore, letting the city unfold her history for us. In the next few hours we found neat stores, more castle structures, an outside escalator up a hillside (magical), and gradually increasing tourists. I tried marzapan, which is famous there. It was like sweet dough lightly baked, but it made my tummy hurt. I tried it just to say I did, and bought some for friends to see if they enjoy it. All who read this, be prepared for a taste!

Our train left at 3pm and we had a frantic run to the station to make it just in time. Toledo was great, I’m glad we went for as long, or short, as we did.

Back in Madrid we saw Robert on our way to the Riena Sofie Art Museum for free. We saw the incredibly famous “Guernica” by Picasso – black and white with people and animals writhing during World War II. We saw some other pieces, but cut our visit short due to our exhaustion. Back for another night at Hostel Metropol, we dropped off our backpacks in the new room 411, next to our old one. Again, we saw a big black back pack and rightfully assumed we were to be the company of more American boys. I actually was a creeper and read the luggage tag, which proved my assumption when I read “American Airlines.” We did not meet them until later…

One month and no American food can be invigorating but also lonely. My stomach missed the extra salt, sugar and animal fat. Hannah and I had no trouble deciding on T.G.I. Friday’s that night – yes it is popular in Spain, and yes their burgers are unbelievable. Our waiter was from Seville, but we didn’t talk much because he was busy flirting with the table of 8 girls next to us, 2 were having their birthday. In front of me was a mushroom, Swiss, onion burger about the size of my face. You would have thought that Hannah and I had never tasted the savory sensation that a real hamburger brings. It had been a long time, and we enjoyed every bite!

After that experience in and of itself, we set off to discover the highly recommended Temple of Debod. At 10pm the sky was still light, which made finding the park simple. What we found was an oasis of trees and wide running paths, couples and teenage cliques hanging out on the grass, a playful wind and a beautiful evening. Through the trees we saw the Egyptian ruins: 3 standing structures, one was a temple. The impressive trio was set in a shallow pool of water that reflected the last rays of daylight. On the backside of the temple was a panorama view of the city. Hannah and I soaked up the moment of this romantic, serene place.

It was getting late for us day travelers, so we reported back to the Hostel for another night. The “boys” had moved their stuff into one bunk bed unit, unlike before when they took up both bottom beds. Every pair of guys we had seen in and around the hostel, Hannah and I wondered if they were our roommates to be. It had been no longer than 7 minutes when the two busted through the door and the suspense was over.

Meet Alex: a 6’4’’ volleyball player from Dartmouth. Recent graduate in Economics and Geography. He just came from visiting his grandparents in Poland; that is where he lost his luggage. This year he will embark on a grand adventure in Korea to teach English. He is a well-seasoned traveler, but does not know Spanish!

Meet Houston: former tight end for Dartmouth, recent graduate in Economics and Geography as well. Next year he will work for real estate in Atlanta, GA. He was a gentle giant who laughed at a lot. His family is joining him in Spain, just like mine.

Both boys are brothers in the Beta Fraternity, and know Rahul Malik and Andrew von Kuhn from Mtn. Brook – small world! They were also traveling to Seville the following day to catch a bullfight.

We stayed up talking and laughing and sharing stories. I had kind of dreaded the idea of more male roommates, but we were very much blessed both nights in the hostel to stay with these American boys. That was a memorable night…

Longing for Seville

The last morning there, they boys ate breakfast with us and then we parted ways. They went to the Prado, and we explored the Rastro - the largest flea market in Spain! It turned out to be much of what we’ve seen people selling in Seville. We bought Spanish tortilla sandwiches for 1.50e after feeling weak from the incense in the air. Spanish tortillas consist of potatoes and eggs in a thick, hearty omelet – Sooo good!

Hannah and I returned to the hostel for our backpacks, from there we found a place to sit, rest, and read over tea. After 2 hours we were energized to do a bit of real shopping! Our favorite stores had huge discounts that day and we took advantage of the 50-70% sales. With tedious shopping comes an appetite for food, so we explored and found a hand-made pizza parlor “Mt. Vesuvius.” My Tropical (Hawaiian) pizza was in my hands after 10 minutes. We watched them toss dough and decorate it with toppings while we waited outside. I was standing in the sidewalk when, who do you think, Robert is waltzing down the street with his North Face backpack. I called him out and we hugged like best friends. Small talk lasted for a few minutes, another hug, and he was off for lunch too. How random, but cool!

Hannah and I had 45 minutes to get to the 6-hour day bus to Seville. We scurried/ran through the Metro system, eating pizza when we were on the train (always accompanied by hand sanitizer). With 10 minutes to go, we slid into the bus station and I darted to the bathroom. Hannah ended up sitting next to a woman who looked like she had been on the maiden Titanic voyage. I sat next to a dark-skinned man who was a talker. A tasteless Spanish film played while I read a book from my sister, “Evidence Not Seen.” Tried to sleep, but woke up when the bus was pulling g-forces in a mountainous ravine. I understood why people pay 80+ euro for the 2hr AVE train. I missed Seville so much and could not get back soon enough.

Hannah and I felt back at home when we finally exited the bus and headed down the familiar San Jacinto street to our flat. Jose and Amparo were out for coffee when we arrived, but they came back within 20 minutes. I hugged Amparo in the American way and gave two “besitos” to dear Jose – it was Father’s Day. That night Hannah and I shared about the trip over a warm, filling meal with our Spanish parents. There is something special about Seville and the Triana neighborhood specifically that always makes me excited to return from wherever the weekend takes me. A truly special place with a unique personality that is infectious to all who call this place “home.”

Thank you Lord for watching over us this weekend and for delivering us safely “home.” Continue to reveal Yourself to us while we wait to encounter You one day in our heavenly “home”.

Madrid Day 2 --> Toledo

2009-06-23T02:31:00.000-07:00

Our morning alarm was jackhammers on the busy street corner – Good Morning Madrid! At 8:15am Hannah and I were dressed and eating our included breakfast from Metropol. Robert joined us midway through, for which we were glad. I like making new friends ;) Breakfast consisted of:

- coolers of coffee and whole milk

- coco puffs that looked like fish bowl pebbles

- mini corn flakes

- warm whole milk for cereal

- crispy round bread and jam spreads

- and a mountain of packaged pastries which we stuffed for a snack later

Our daily adventures began at the Royal Palace, again, and we didn’t need a guide thanks to our Rick Steves study the previous afternoon. Inside the palace it was drop dead gorgeous! We tried to hold our composure as we passed magnificent chandeliers (at least 37), intricate carvings on walls and furniture, antiqued sculptures, and fingerprints of ancient royalties. We kept finding rooms to explore on our way out, including the impressive armory and brilliant kitchen/doctors quarters. I HIGHLY recommend a visit to the Palacio Real if you are ever near or in Madrid – coool!

Our feet and stomachs began to protest afterwards, so we found a shady spot under the bridge amongst the birds to have a “merienda” (snack). Afterwards we meandered in and out of shops on our way across town to a restaurant recommended by our Spanish professor. We found the little pirate pub “Maceiras” near the Prado on Calle Huertas (if you care to know). Quaint, under the sea theme, well-priced, watch your purse!

The 33 acres of Retiro Park proved to be a perfect place to rest after a hearty lunch. We strolled to the center in search of “servicios, aseos, baños” alongside a gorgeous lake with paddleboats. Spotted some cute boys tan from the beach amongst all the little kids. Hannah and I found a bench near a glass palace house to read and get some shut-eye. The two boys ended up at the bench next to us! Hannah wasn’t comfortable on the wooden, bird poo-splattered bench, so we moved to the grass. After a bit, the boys strolled over “to see if we had been to the Prado.” They were 24 yrs old from Argentina, different accents, one could salsa (so he said), really chill. We four talked for like an hour sharing Spain experiences and sharing pictures and stories. It was nothing sketchy like we think in America, just four 20-somethings relating their lives for a moment, and then we continue with our lives. I held my own throughout the Spanlish interchange, a “broma” (joke) here or there.

It was 5pm and time to find a train or bus to Toledo for the night. We had not bought our ticket, which turned out to be a bit messy and unlike the easy, line-less stations of Seville. After a bit of confusion and panic, a blonde Spanish man (married, looked German) in line helped us find where to go. We waited in line with him for a while making small talk until we got 2 tickets 20 minutes before the train left! (Divine Timing) The RENFE train was comfortable until my seat buddy was a thick smoker, however the ride was only 30 minutes.

!HOLY TOLEDO! First impression: hottt (42C, 105F) and lots of castle walls. Toledo was a former capital of Spain – like most cities were at one time. The government declared Toledo city a national monument, therefore no modern additions are possible. Shame, because I wish they could pave the roads or something. Everything is uphill to the city center. A taxi driver laughed when he dropped us off at Hotel Diamantista saying that it was a hike to the center…great. However, the Hotel was by the Rio Tajo where old men went fishing with their dogs in the late afternoon. This location had its positives and negatives.

The receptionist came out in what looked like his pajamas, but he swore that they were not. It was a very tranquil place, no hot water, big beds, poor air conditioning, and a tv where we watched “Carlos y la Fábrica de Chocolate.” After checking in we took a bus to the Plaza Zocodover and were greeted by a drum circle with about 15 guys and girls of all ages rocking out on their jimbe drums – tight!

We explored the buildings and got a dose of ancient architecture by sunset. Rick Steves told us to try to get lost and it was nearly impossible since we just went down to get to our hotel. Oh, the route for Don Quixote was marked alongside the road as we searched for a dinner place. We asked an 80+ yr old couple where to grab a bite around town and they told us the directions about 3 times, so thrilled to be talking to American girl. Oh, the old people here are precious and incredibly helpful. Hannah and I on our first night in Toledo ate Greek lamb wraps and cherished our lemon Fantas with unusually massive ice cubes in the glass.

In our hotel that night we found a few surprises. Cold water and no cold air. We tinkered with the air and started smelling something burning so we left it alone. Opening the window was a logical idea until we realized that the lamp outside our window attracted little green river bugs that wanted to snuggle up with us in bed. In the end we went to be sweating and woke up in quite the same humid heat.

Life Lessons: Madrid

2009-06-23T02:27:00.000-07:00

What this weekend taught me:

FACT #1: Madrid is a very different place from Seville, for example: map proportions.

FACT #2: Hostels make people get close fast!

FACT #3: Expired guidebooks are expired for a reason…

FACT #4: Comfortable shoes are always a worthy investment.

FACT #5: American food in a foreign country is magical!

FACT #6: College kids traveling together don’t stay strangers for long

FACT #7: Women standing around at night are not waiting for their husbands

FACT #8: Toledo is old for a reason, your eyes will discover why, but your feet will begin to cry!

FACT #9: Rest is sometimes more valuable than seeing every cathedral or museum in Spain

FACT #10: God is full of surprises and watches over his children, evidenced by the divine acquaintances who spiced up the trip or simply set us in the right direction.

Day 1 in Madrid

After a 6-hour bus ride through the night from Seville, Hannah and I were a bit delusional, running on the adrenaline that comes from raw exploration. We bought a map for Madrid, unfolded the little guy, and set out to conquer Madrid. One thing, we couldn’t even locate the bus station on a map. After 5 minutes of wandering and searching for street names a woman with her energetic spaniel asked us if we needed directions – in English with a French accent! We must have looked obviously lost with our backpacks, big map and twisted expressions. She sent us to bus 148 towards Plaza Callao on Gran Vía, making sure we completely understood where to go and when. (Praise #1)

We boarded the ever-efficient city bus for our Hostel Metropol. On the ride we (I) enjoyed small talk with an old woman whose daughter bought her a bag with cats and sunflowers on the front. No, she does not own cats, but I told her about mine and she just enjoyed young people paying her attention. Next up was an old man who sat across from us. He is from Salamanca but is restoring a flat in Madrid. He talked most of the time. I had to sort through two accents: Spanish and “old person accent.”

At the end of the line we got off in Plaza Callao and began again our search for Hostel Metropol. Hannah and I split a Berry Mocha Starbucks – not that good and way too expensive. After 10 minutes, we arrived in the Plaza España. Knowing this was far off, I called the hostel and had a lovely Spanglish conversation that sent us in the opposite direction towards the hostel on Gran Vía. (Praise #2) After a good laugh and being turned around so early, Hannah and I finally made it to the Hostel Metropol – right next to McDonalds.

Rick Steves was right when he described it as “colorful.” We checked in at the receptionist desk on the second floor, only to hear that our reservation did not take! It was a bit tense while we waited for the computer to decide our fate for the night…5 minutes of small talk passed. They squeezed us in on the 4^th floor for the 2 nights we wanted! (Praise #3) They then guarded our backpacks while we went to explore the artistic city of Madrid.

This is now 10am by the time we make it to art museum #1. We enjoy a generous student discount at the “taquilla” and enter the Thyssen art museum. After an hour of following a pamphlet of 50 famous painting thumbnails I saw a sign that said “Salida Prado.” I thought How considerate of them to point to the Prado Museum because I’m sure most people do both in one day. Then it hit me – WE WERE IN THE PRADO!!! For those of you who are unfamiliar with THE Prado Museum, it is a classical art museum that holds the major works of major artists including El Greco, Goya, Velasquez, Rembrandt, Raphael, and many others. So I guess you could label that my “blonde moment” for the weekend! For the next hour and a half we enjoyed our scavenger hunt throughout the 100 or so rooms. You cannot go to Madrid without seeing the Prado. I’m in Spanish art class this second semester in summer and we’re studying everything I saw!

For lunch we followed Rick Steves suggestions and ate expensive and unfilling seafood “montaditos” (mini baguettes). Rick was starting to let us down…

We returned at 3:30 for a siesta, since the night bus wasn’t the most comfortable sleeping condition. When we retrieved the key for room 412, we discovered that our roommates for the night were American BOYS! I cannot remember the last time I spent the night with guys, unless you include 5^th grade birthday parties. This was going to be interesting, an experience to say the least. Hannah and I giggled quite a bit and wanted to check out their massive backpacks, but sleep took precedence.

After our naps we went out to tackle the Royal Palace; Madrid is the capital for a reason. We arrived an hour before closing, but the time in Rick Steve’s book were an hour off, so Hannah and I sat across from the palace reading Rick’s vivid and imaginative descriptions of the exquisite palace. It is the 3^rd largest and most ornate Palace in the world. That would not be the last time we would experience the Palacio Real.

What do you do when your plans fall through? Go shopping!! That is what we did until dinner in the Plaza Mayor. It reminded me of a miniature version of Plaza San Marco in Venice: picturesque, street performers, overpriced food, all the waiters call you friend to get your business. At the end of our pizza a light rain cooled off the heat of the day as we walked back to the hostel for the night.

A new receptionist at Hostel Metropol was Scottish and very friendly. We were inquisitive about our roommates and he whipped out where they were from, what year they were born… After cutting up with him in English for a while we braved our room 412. I walked through the door and said, “Which one of you is from Texas?” The looks on the three boys was priceless. They were traveling separate. We enjoyed our time.

Robert: Houston, TX – Senior at Texas A&M, just finished hiking for a month across northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela, talkative, perfect teeth, great hair, loved his Diet Coke and Gray’s Anatomy, called himself a “mama’s boy.”

Justin: from Michigan, lives in Austin, experienced backpacker with Ziplock bags for all his clothes, cool cat

Kevin: from Atlanta, lives in Austin, bought a cowboy hat in Spain, snores, loves bar crawling

We ended up seeing Robert 2 times in the streets of Madrid and acted like old friends!

Corpus Cristi en Granada

2009-06-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

(I know i'm skipping ahead a bit, but I'll catch you up later)

I got free internet outside our school on a sidewalk with construction all around, so you can imagine my excitement and distractions all at once! My family is great, wonderful food, a bit picky with the little house habits (turning off lights, wearing shoes, making beds, etc.) but they are dear. I love the humor here, everyone is genuinely friendly and enjoy joking with each other in good taste. My roomie does not speak as much spanish as I wish b/c she's just now learning it. I've been a translator many times b/c I'm comfortable enough with the language, but I can see where I've become lazy at speaking.

I went with the 3 girls to Granada this past weekend (June 11-13) and it was super cool! We caught the tail end of Corpus Cristi - huge festival that looked like Christmas. In the late afternoon we saw one of the world wonders "Alhambra" palace and castle. Incredible detail and views of the city. Napolean once used it after the Christians conquered it from the muslims, so much history! At night we went to a lookout and ate dinner with the Alhambra glowing in plain sight. I checked out a book from our school library "Rick Steve's Spain 2008" and we followed it almost verbatim and had the best time. We played in Granada Thursday and Friday. Saturday we took a bus 1hr up to the Sierra Nevada mountains where there is still snow, but not much else to do besides hike around and eat hearty 3-course, 10euro meals. We were basically forced to rest, but oh how we needed a sabbath like day after all the traveling. We got lots of sun and worked off some chocolate churros too!

I bought some black parachute pants, they're all the rage over here, I'm actually wearing them now - very breezy and comfortable.

We returned Saturday night and went to an evangelical church Sunday. I cried throughout worship the whole time. I didn't realize how much I missed that fellowship with other believers, just praying in their midst in a different language to the same God was so powerful and moving. The worship leader was the only one who noticed my overflowing joy, my God moment if you will. I was so thirsty for that life in a city that seems so materialistic and dark at times. It's an interesting thing being a tourist and a Christian and realizing that our call to serve transcends our call to be served. Once you embrace that conviction, it changed everything. I want eyes wide open to opportunities to serve around me; whether it be English speaking tourists or the wrinkled old ladies gossiping in the street. It was a very monumental Sunday for me and I cannot wait to see relationships form with that body of believers.

I leave for Madrid in 3 days after our final exams. I'm going with my roomie Hannah, who is learning Spanish. We're going from Madrid to Segovia to Toledo back to Madrid then to Sevilla in 4 days! Again, Rick Steves will be advising us the whole way there and back.

El 8 de Junio

2009-06-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

A man sang “Sweet Home Alabama” to me in the street today; he goes around the world with his work and knew about Alabama. I must say, it sounded quite different in a Spanish accent.

When José smiles, his whole face smiles too. His laugh is just as contagious and makes even more wrinkles in his leather-skinned smile. We had a conversation today about mustaches and beards; he used to have a “bigote” or mustache. He told me that those who have beards eat twice…get it? At lunch we had a moment that was so clear and memorable. Jose said (in Spanish, mind you), “Isn’t life sweet?! It’s wonderful at your age, but even when you’re forty and even when you’re like us; life gets better and better. We are not old, we’re just older in age.”

I added: Age is just a reflection of the heart, no?

Amparo: And the mind!

Me: So that makes you like 28?

Both: Younger!

We all laughed because we knew it was true.

The girls and I painted fans or “abonicas” at school. One of mine was green with pink flowers and the other was blue with nautical designs. I have a whole new appreciation for painting on shifting surfaces. Afterwards we ate Telepizza for 1 euro today, my stomach is growling from the grease. I felt like I was back at Auburn!

At 8:30pm the whole group of students went out for tapas for Kelsey and Hannah’s birthdays. It was an adventure and ended up costing a bit more than planned. I had my 3^rd glass of Tinto del Verano of the whole trip. We laughed a lot, but it wasn’t due to the wine.

Tapas were cut short because we wanted to get home for dinner with Jose y Amparo. Turns out we were a bit late and got a little scolding along with our ham sandwiches. I ate more than I could handle tonight and seriously need a time machine or a toilet to feel better.

Primera Bebida Entera!

2009-06-09T08:38:00.000-07:00

For those of you who understand Spanish, you know where this is headed based off the title, but allow me to give you a little background...

It's day 4 in Spain and tonight we went out for "tapas" with the whole group, some professors and friends. We met at the school and that is where I met my "intercambio" or English-Spanish exchange partner. His name is Kike (short for Enrique)! Immediately we hit it off talking about his trip to Chicago, his band where he is base guitarist, his opportunities to share about the Lord before his audiences and so much more. I could tell that he enjoys working with this program and had many friends on staff. Little did I know that Kike would be the best guide and insight into the local life.

The tapas place was colorful with painted tiles from floor to ceiling. We sat on large tile steps that served as steps and seats and tables - quite unique. The tapas included potato salad, seafood salad, strong cheese, ham and fried bread, bocadillos or mini-sandwhiches, and drinks all around. Most everyone had coke or the ever-popular Fanta, but I wanted to try something new. Julie Anne told us that a popular Spanish drink is called "tinto del verano" which is red wine mixed with sprite or lemonade. It sounded pretty harmless. I ordered my first alcoholic beverage (a mixed drink) and it was great! Afterwards I could walk in a straight line and everything. It really didn't have an effect on me, any silly reaction was because it got to my head that I just had my first drink in Spain. There. It's out. I am familiarizing my taste buds with the fruit of the vine. Everyone is very responsible and cultured with their drinking here, so it's a very safe environment.

On the walk home from tapas night, my three friends and I heard music coming from by the Guadalvivir River... We followed the sound as it grew louder with each step. An impressive wave of trumpets swept through the night air, luring us closer to the river. Upon our arrival we saw 40+ men in casual clothes talking loudly and playing their trumpets when their part came in the song. This was one of those moments that reminded me that I'm in Spain! We sat for a song or two, later realizing that we witnessed a practice session for a religious procession the following day. What a beautiful evening!

First "Encuentro"

2009-06-07T08:28:00.000-07:00

Día 3

A typical school day lasts from 9am-1pm with a break from 11 for 30 minutes. I’m studying Spanish culture and how the Muslim, Christian, and Jewish religions shaped the history and contributed to the current identity of Spain. My professor reminds me of my Uncle Keith with his big eyebrows and “Thomas Family” looks. His sense of humor and constant enthusiasm are refreshing for the moments when we zone out and cannot think anymore in Spanish.

After school we walk 15 minutes back for a hot lunch from our señora and a long siesta. Days are long and warm, but full of friendly gossips, always excited to help us find our way. When we ask for directions, it seems like the whole street or store joins in to help – feels like a movie.

After the siesta, some girls and I walked around a few shops to see what there is to see. A place called “Lefties” is a store that sells “Zara” clothes for less, other stores and boutiques line the streets. We pass about 25 tapas bars on our way to school, and that is just along one ro

ad! Tapas are like an appetizer-sized plate with a variety of things from snails to oiled sardines to chicken kabobs and much more.

Hannah’s dad joined us for gelato at Mama Goya’s before heading to our first “Encuentro,” the worship time every Wednesday led by Julie Anne Burrandt for us students. Jillayne and I bought 2 gelato for our friends who were already at the church, but by the time we walked there it was half melted… it’s definitely summertime here. Encuentro was a neat series of Spanish worship songs, testimonies, and encouragement for our time here. Julie Anne pointed out how so often as tourists or visitors of a foreign country we tend to become selfish and frustrated if things don’t work according to our expectations. Yep, that’s about right. Us being foreigners for a time here brings to life Jesus’ command to live as citizens of another place, being heaven for our time here is so short. Finding simple opportunities to serve the Sevillians is challenging but rewarding. Whether it’s making señora smile or talking to a stranger for directions or paying a talented flamenco dancer in the street, those exchanges give me another chance to die to my pride and love like Christ.

Before returning for dinner, we got directions to a bar to watch the fútbol game of Barcelona vs. English Manchester for the World Cup. The majority of

people in the bar were men and for some reason they thought I was going for England (maybe b/c I’m white), so I got some weird looks. It was the first soccer game I saw all the way through – I have much to learn.

That night we walked around and were in awe of how beautiful Seville is at night. The buildings are lit up and reflect upon the river under a partially full moon. We felt pretty safe, especially since there was a boy with us.

Meeting Hannah

2009-06-07T08:27:00.000-07:00

Day 2

So my roommate speaks NO Spanish. I got a phone call from José after I studied in the Parque Maria Luisa, and he was semi-frantic. He kept saying “Anna (Hannah) habla NO español!” I said adios to my friends and walked as fast as my legs could go on the dirty Spanish tile streets.

Meet Hannah: a senior in architecture at Judson Christian College. Short light brown hair, glasses and severe tan lines from her shoes. She was exhausted from hotel hopping in Greece and Italy with her architecture class for 3 weeks before. Her dad was not that different with glasses and a worried look on his face. This was the first day of a 7 week adventure in a foreign country with a foreign tongue…how would you react?

I took Hannah and her dad on an English tour of the city and touched on the rules and highlights that we received through orientation from school. The first few days took a bit of adjusting to new cultures and routines around the house, but she turned out to be more organized than me. Imagine that!

Espanish Quirks!

2009-06-02T14:30:00.000-07:00

Sevillians like to leave out their "s" when they talk, so the words sound a bit different
Pedestrians have the right-of-way most all the time. Jay-walking is a popular habit over here. Traffic signs are relative.
NEVER forget to turn out the light/fan when you leave a room, or they will let you know!
"Dos besitos" or two kisses for greetings
When older women (50+) are walking together, they stroll arm in arm
Dogs on leashes are under the full authority of their owners; we often see dogs being dragged by their harnesses in protest
If a girl is looking particularly beautiful someday, the men will let her know verbally (I don't think it's so quirky ;)
Cockroaches fly here
Snails are a delicacy
Whole neighborhoods throw fiestas!
Some women need to lay off on the blue eyeshadow
"Chinos" or Chinese people speak Spanish with Chinese accents
There are creepers in the park
If you get lost, everyone around you joins in to help (speaking from experience)
Our "dressed-up" is their "casual"
Shot-gun showers
Every building is 3+ times as old as those in America
They know how to dance and eat!

Orientating

2009-06-02T08:28:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, May 26th

I walked with Laura and Jillayne to our first day of school. In Alabama Mom makes me Mickey Mouse pancakes on the fist day of school, so it felt like I was sort of breaking tradition. Anyways, we three amigas walked 15 minutes through the busy streets of Triana, Seville to our school "Acento" through Trinity College (check out their program "Semester in Spain").

It was fun meeting the other 13 students, we are all very different and mostly from different parts of the US: California, Colorado, Chicago, Michigan, Indianapolis, Alabama! I met Julie Anne Burrandt, my mutual friend from JH Ranch, and she just brings sunshine with her wherever she goes. There are people you love being around because they make you feel so good, well she's one of them. From her stylish wardrobe to her love for the Lord to her contagious laugh, I just adore Julie Anne!

She and Leslie (program coordinator) took us on a tour of Seville, more of the downtown district and this was the day my mind changed about Spain. We saw fountains, and gardens, and medieval palaces, and people everywhere and even more flowers adorning the banks of the Guadalvivir River that divides the city. The beauty and excitement of it all left a lasting impression on me that day.

We met our professors for 5 minutes. My history teacher of the "Three Cultures" class is Jose Maria, a middle aged man who rarely frowns and is eager to help us understand the proud yet war-torn history of his country.

That day we also received our Orange cell phones, but you pay for every second you use! There's a system we use called a toque where nobody has to pay. If I'm meeting someone and I'm already at the place I can give them a call or a toque and then hang up to let them know I'm here. Pretty sneaky!

Class ended at 1pm and we all went back for lunch in our houses or pisos. I

consider myself super fortunate because Señora used to be the owner and cook for

3 local tapas restaurants. Therefore, every meal is so authentic and delicioso! For

breakfast we eat toasted bread with Nutella (almonds and chocolate) with café con

leche. For lunch it is a larger 3 course meal and dinner consists of 2 courses. My

stomach was not used to the amount of food, but it's so much healthier and I need

it to last through the long days of exploring.

That night I spent alone in my room for the last time because my roomie was

not coming until the next morning. The traveling and hard bed made me sore, but

the rest was welcome nonetheless. As I closed my eyes I could hear outside the

window old men bickering like old women, little children always on the verge of some

grand adventure, worried mothers, and teenagers too cool for school. All of them

enjoying the cool of the night and the company of their friends.

First impressions:

2009-06-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

It's day 9 of my trip abroad in Seville, Spain and I think it's about time I fess up to all the fun I've been having outside of everything I call home in Alabama. So here goes!

Sunday, May 24th: When I went to church that morning with my family, our friends

asked us what we were up to this afternoon, and I got a kick out of telling them that I was

going to Spain...no really! Mom and Dad drove me to the Bham airport around 2pm, lugging

a 46lb suitcase and a bulky carry-on to match. Also I had my backpack with extra clothes

and necessities pack away incase my suitcase decided that it didn't want to see Spain.

The plane ride to Philadelphia was great, and I had about 20 minutes to find my way

to the next flight for Lisbon, Portugal. After much scurrying I made it in time, saying final

words to my brother Jason before jumping the pond for Europe. While we were waiting for

the plane to board there was nobody who arrived in the 2 seats beside me...until the last

minute. An 18 yr. old navy brat sat at the window and told me all about where to hit up

the night life in Seville. I nodded and let him share his expertise, not knowing if I would

come in handy or not.

Note: I tried just about every position possible to sleep in a plane seat during my 15

hours of travel, and I have to tell you it's a difficult feat...that I did not personally accomplish.

Monday, May 25th: The airports in Portugal lack a certain organization that is under

appreciated in the states. I met up with Jillayne, another girl from the trip; we were both

wearing "Study in Spain" turquoise t-shirts that screamed "WE'RE NEW HERE - HELP!"

Immediately, I put my Spanish knowledge to use in the airport. A bit to my dismay, the

more popular language there was portuguese, duh! No matter, we explored the chic and

european airport before boarding at 10am for Seville. We were fed a foreign combination

of red sausage and swiss cheese on a baby bun alongside chocolate nougats for our one

hour plane ride - great service!

Upon arriving in the tiny Seville airport, Jillayne and I met Laura, another friend on the

trip; who knew we would all get so close! The three of us squeezed our luggage and tired

bodies in a cab that is not used to that capacity. We gave the driver two addresses and

before we knew it, we were in the heart of Seville, heading to our new "home" for 6 weeks.

Let me just clarify that I did not have expectations coming into this trip, partially

because I literally didn't know what to expect, and partially because I didn't want to imagine

Seville as something other than it was. At first, I was shocked at all the buildings and traffic

of this very metropolitan city. Seville is the capital of the Andalusian southern region of

Spain, so naturally it attracts lost of people. I just thought it would be a bit more quaint

with more trees and such. I had a lot to learn about this city.

The cab driver charged us 25 euros and we tipped him a few euros because that is

what we're used to doing. For future reference to world travelers, tipping here is a new

concept, so basically we just made that cabbie's day!

I split off from Jillayne and Laura because they are roommates who live on an opposite

corner from us. With bulky bags in hand I pushed the ringer to my place (a flat or piso

above a clothing store). My enthusiasm spilled over the intercom to my Señora Amparo Mayo,

"HOLA, Amparo? Soy Margarita, un estudiante de Trinity, y su hija nueva!" [Hi Amparo? I'm

Margarita, a student with Trinity and your new daughter!] Her response was equally excited!

It took me two tries to get the door. Climbing one flight of stairs I arrived. There to

greet me was my spanish family Amparo (75 years) and her joyful husband José (older than her).

They made me feel right at home. The flat was tiny and they're really particular about using

water and energy here; I'm establishing green habits quickly. It hit me that I was in Spain

and that all I would hear for the next 6 weeks was a language that I had only begun to

understand. Yes I've been studying Spanish for 7 years in school, but it takes on a whole new

life when you're surrounded by natives and different accents in every cafe.

Something I did notice about their lifestyle immediately was that they did not have an

agenda. Those who know me know that I always have a plan and a list of things to accomplish

for the day. My Spanish family was so relaxed and genuinely enjoyed my company and that

of their friends who I met later. It was refreshing!

At 6 they spanish culture has something they call a merienda or a snack to tie them over

from the 2pm lunch to the 9pm dinner. I went with the Mayos to a small cafe called "Don

Diego," their favorite coffee joint. Here we sat outside and their friends came by and sat with

us by and by to where our group was full of grandparents, babies and me. I was busy taking

it all in, trying to talk a bit so I didn't look like a mute American. One of the women asked

me about immigration and I was immediately grateful for the Spanish debating class where this

was a popular topic. There was a baby there, Francisco "Fri", who was learning how to walk

and everyone was googling at him. I was guilty too. I also met a 3 yr old girl who knew

her numbers and colors in English - they start them early here.

After about an hour and a half of socializing, we walked back for dinner and more

unpacking. My roommate had not arrived and would not until the second day of school.

Her name is Hannah Weber and she was on an architecture trip in Italy and Greece the weeks

before Spain. More to come on that.

My first night in Spain...so hard to believe it was finally here!