Christmas in Barcelona

It's hard to believe that I celebrated my second Christmas in Spain this year! The city, celebrations, and gifts were different, but I again was able to celebrate with Anna, which was fantastic. She arrived on Christmas Eve and we were able to spend the day walking, catching up on life, and relaxing - it hardly seemed like a year and a half had gone by since we last saw each other!

We celebrated Noche Buena at home and out on the town, although we were a bit surprised with how few people were out in my neighborhood. After a big sleep in, we listened to Christmas music, opened presents, and were terribly lazy all day. We both agreed that, again, it didn't actually feel like Christmas at all! This wasn't a good or a bad thing, just interesting. It confirmed again for me that my association with Christmas isn't music, gifts, or food, but being with family. Without that, it just seems like most other days off.

If not with the Killion clan, I'm glad I got to celebrate Christmas with Anna. And, considering we were able to go to the beach today and sit outside enjoying cañas, spending the holidays in Barcelona isn't exactly rough. :) Heading to the cold of London tomorrow is going to be quite an adjustment . . .

Our Christmas "Tree"

Happy to be reunited!

Late Nights in Barcelona

Wow - what a week it has been! Wine and hilarious conversations Wednesday until 3am, fantastic concert until 2am Thursday, dinner Friday, followed by drinks and dancing until 7am last night. It will never cease to amaze me how different life, especially night life, is in Barcelona. There is never a lack of something to do, the city is constantly buzzing with energy and life, and it is so easy to stay out until the early morning hours.

The past two weekends have included coming home after 6 am, something that I never really experienced until living in Spain. Yet here, there are so many people out at that time and more who stay up even later! For me, when there are so many people out and having fun, it's so easy to lose track of time - one moment it's midnight, the next the sun is coming up.

For someone who used to be nicknamed "Pirate Eye," I still find it amazing that this lifestyle suits me so well! Although I might be tired, once I'm out in it, I can usually make it until the end. Unfortunately, these late nights don't make for the most productive next days, but that's okay. (Another aspect of life in Spain that I love? I've gotten much better at relaxing!)

I've been here a year and a half, but I feel there is SO much more of the city I have yet to discover, both during the day and the night. With holiday drinks and dinners next weekend, followed by winter break and visitors, I have a feeling there will be even more late nights to enjoy in the upcoming weeks. Barcelona - I love dating you! :)

Jamie XX + Jamie Woon + James Blake = A Fantastic Show!

Tessa, Marybeth, and I went to this show at Razmatazz this week - wow! I mainly wanted to go because I love The XX and was happy to see anyone that was a part of them (i.e. Jamie XX). However, the entire show proved to be amazing! This song is one of my new favorites - check these guys out!

A VERY Entertaining Conversation Topic

Along with classic books and recent fiction, the book below is another one shared by Anne during our Berlin book conversation. In just a few short weeks, it has provided SO much entertainment! This classic by Martine was written in the 70s and describes men and women under each astrological sign, as well as their erogenous zones, ways to make first and last moves, and extremely detailed accounts of what they are like in the bedroom.

It's one of those books where you read a paragraph and think it's exactly like you, then read the next and think the exact opposite! A bunch of girls were together last night and this book made an appearance. After many read alouds, lots of blushing, and tons of laughing, it was confirmed that we need more copies of this book and that it might make for a great book club read. If you want a good laugh (and possibly some insight!), I highly suggest ordering a copy. :)

Dating Barcelona

I always find it interesting to hear girls talk as though having a guy around would change everything. I'll be the first to agree that having a man in your life that you really like and who really likes you, as well as some consistent love, can make for some very happy times! However, I also truly believe that you have to be happy on your own first - if you're not, no guy is going to change that.

One of my favorite things that Anne used to say is that when people asked her if she was dating anyone, her response was, "Yes, I'm dating Barcelona." :) Why is Barcelona so great to date? Well, there's always something new to do or see, he's consistent, he's warm, he provides cheap and delicious meals, and he's a lot of fun! Her point was that there is just so much to see and to do in this city, you can spend plenty of time just getting to know it and falling in love. (That Anne is always full of words of wisdom :)

Yep, it is pretty great to be dating Barcelona!

Ideas I like to live by . . .

Literary Love

While in Berlin this past weekend, Anne, Tessa, and I had many fabulous conversations about all sorts of topics. However, one of my favorite ones has to be the 1.5 hour conversation we had books.

All three of us love to read, but the enthusiasm and the clear love of literature that came through as we began to share some of our most favorite books while sitting in a darkened bar in Berlin must have been a sight to see! Throughout this conversation, we reminisced about favorite books of our past - the crazy story lines, the language, the characters. It was fun to see how many books we commonly loved, as well as discover ones we've never read, but now hope to.

Anne has an amazing ability to remember so many parts in all the books she has read, and Tessa can remember the most obscure details, while I seem to remember little but titles, authors, and general story lines that have impacted me. Regardless, when arriving at school on Monday, Anne brought six books for me to read and checked out equally as many from the library. I love it!

The first book of this stack that I've chosen to read is The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon. This book was extremely popular a few years ago and I'm sure many people know it, yet I never heard of it until moving to Barcelona (maybe my memory issue again?). The book is set in Barcelona and mentions many streets and plazas near where I live. The language and description in the book is incredible, something that is so impressive to me considering it's been translated from Spanish to English. Although I am only eight chapters in, I am dying to keep reading - suspense, mystery, romance, books, intrigue! It's been a long time since I've felt that way about a book, particularly one for adults.

Today, my 5th graders and I were about to finish our read aloud book. They have been dying to hear the end and their daily excitement about the story has been so fun to see. Before reading, I told them about the conversation Ms. Anne, Ms. Tessa, and I had. (Their reaction was a mix of "That sounds so boring!" with "Wow - you really talk about books?" :) I also shared with them a paragraph from The Shadow of the Wind that really struck me (see below). Although they didn't all understand it (as expected!), I like to think that they will remember a tiny piece of the moment.

So, if you haven't read The Shadow of the Wind, I highly suggest it. (You can also take the book tour the next time you visit me in Barcelona! :). And, I hope it reminds you of your "first book." Now, I have to get back to reading . . .

"Once, in my father's bookshop, I heard a regular customer say that few things leave a deeper mark on a reader than the first book that finds its way into his heart. Those first images, the echo of words we think we have left behind, accompany us throughout our lies and sculpt a place in our memory to which, sooner or later - no matter how many books we read, how many worlds we discover, or how much we learn or forget - we will return." - Carlos Ruiz Zafon, The Shadow of the Wind, p. 6

Building Friendships

Over the past few weeks, I've been part of or have heard about, many discussions regarding friendships. Without a doubt, I think this is one of the hardest parts of moving someplace new, especially when it's a foreign country.

A few teachers have mentioned how they just feel like they have very few, if any, close friends. Something that has surprised me is how some people seem to think they should be invited by everyone to everything that's happening. And if they are not, they take it very personally. I don't know if it's because for a number of people this is their first time abroad or what. A few people I know at other schools have mentioned the same thing. However, it's been really interesting to observe (I think international schools would make for a fascinating sociology experiment!).

I'll be the first to admit that I've been really lucky since moving to Spain. Being thrown into CELTA in Sevilla made for many quickly formed friendships due to spending so much time together and having similar interests (teaching, learning Spanish, living in Spain). Although I didn't expect to become friends with Anna when I first met her, I'm so lucky that life put us together and once we got to know each other, we became the best of friends. I suppose spending literally 300+ days with someone will do that :)

Then, I was lucky enough to find Tessa in Barcelona! I think we were both fortunate to be here for our first year, single, around the same age, and with many of the same interests. In addition, there were very few other new teachers, so we immediately began spending lots of our time together. She and I have become the best of friends, too.

However, as I was discussing with someone earlier this week, friendships take time! When I think of my closest friends at home, we've been friends for over a decade. No one can expect to have those sort of friendships in just a few short months, particularly when friendships are somewhat forced because of the situation. In fact, I only feel that in the past few months I've become true friends with Tanya and Anne. Although we've gone out together before, it took almost a year and a half to be at the point where I feel I can really be myself around each of them.

I believe that true, strong friendships take time and effort on the part of both people. When moving abroad, you truly have to start over when it comes to friends and that's tough! You have to find the people that you really think you would become friends with if you had the choice. And you have to work to make those friendships happen. It's for this reason that I'm surprised when people seem to think friendships happen without some effort by both parties.

Now that I've developed some true friendships with people at school, I'm doing my best to try and make some outside of it. Without a doubt, this is even harder! I don't particularly want to make any more American friends because I am surrounded by them all the time. But, I really want to make Spanish-speaking friends so that I can practice! In addition, since I plan to be in Barcelona for awhile, I hope to be friends with people who plan to stay here, too (another problem with friendships in international schools - people are constantly moving away).

I think it's hard to find genuine situations in which you can meet people that are living here and wanting to make new friends as well. Luckily, I met Hayley through Spanish classes and she and I quickly became friends. Although she's Australian, she and her Argentinian boyfriend will be here awhile because he's in medical school. I believe it's true that Catalan people aren't quite as open and welcoming as Andalucians, which makes it harder to know local people. I hope an intercambio friend might be my ticket into more Catalan culture!

As I reread this entry to myself, it reminds me a bit of middle school! Living abroad means figuring out who you are in a new setting and I think one can learn a lot about themselves through these experiences. I've again been reminded of the amazing friendships I have, some that began more than 15 years ago, others 5, and some that just started a year or a few months ago. Regardless of the time, these friendships began because of shared interests and experiences, as well as genuine enjoyment of one another's company, not because they were forced to happen. And so, I look forward to the other friendships I might discover while living a broad in Barcelona . . . :)

Oh, what a night!

Wow - last night was one of those nights that reminded me just how lucky I am to work with the people I do! The MAIS (Mediterranean Association of International Schools) conference was held in Barcelona this past weekend and ASB sent 50 staff members to the conference. It was a great opportunity to attend workshops and enjoy some professional development. In addition, I was part of a presentation - my first at a conference!

In addition to teaching and learning, there was some definite fun provided as well! On Friday, many ASB teachers took visitors out to dinner, including Tessa and I. This was great opportunity to show off the city and delicious Spanish food, as well as talk with teachers from all over.

Last night was the gala dinner, hosted at the Hotel Rey Juan Carlos, one of the fanciest in Barcelona. Upon arrival, we were greeted with glasses of cava and led down a palm tree-lined path into a beautiful outdoor area. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres were served there until we went inside for dinner and drinks. After dinner, there were flamenco dancers who were really good - it brought me back to Andalucia!

But, the best part of the night was definitely when the DJ started! Drinks were endlessly poured and the dance party began! I knew we had some good dancers at our school, but this was incredible! It was absolutely hilarious to watch dance-offs and crazy moves by many of our teachers, including our director and some older staff members. The best dance moves definitely belonged to Anne (not a surprise!), Alan, and Brett. It was SO much fun dancing for hours to a fabulous mix of music with this group. My body is a bit tired today, both from the dancing and the laughing!

Last night was a great reminder of why I love living and working here. Although I might get frustrated with things at times, the fact that I get to live in a city that takes enjoying life to a whole other level while working with such fun, amazing people makes it all worth it. I feel like a pretty lucky girl :)

Southern France - I can't wait to go back!

While my mom and dad were here, we spent a long weekend in southern France. It was my first visit and like Italy, it's a country I think I will return to over and over again! It's amazing how you can drive just two hours away and everything is so different! Again, this is part of what I love about living in Europe - a new language, a new culture, new foods, and new landscapes are so close!

We rented a car (a definite necessity to see this part of the country) and were able to see multiple castles and small towns, as well as drive through beautiful French countryside. We stopped in Thuir on our way to the bed and breakfast we stayed in - Maison Laurent in Pieusse. I can't recommend this place enough! The British couple, Anthony and Rachel, who own it are fabulous. The accommodations were amazing, as was the 4-course meal Anthony prepared for us one night. It was heavenly staying there!

We visited Carcassone, a beautiful walled village, and stopped at numerous Cathar castles along the way. We ended our trip with a night in Coillure - a town on the coast. Waking up to see the Mediterranean is always a treat :)

All in all, it was an amazing weekend. I'm already starting to mentally plan some trips to Paris, Provence, the French Riveria . . .

A Jumble of Emotions

Whew - now that it's coming to an end, it makes me realize that these past few weeks, although SO fantastic, brought up quite a few emotions in me. At the moment, I feel like I have about 15 different ones rushing to the surface at the same time - it's a bit exhausting!

I feel so happy that I get to show off this city as my "home." I love Barcelona and it's so great to share the city, the lifestyle, the food, etc. with people who are important to me - it's such an amazing place to live!

I feel lots of guilt for knowing that my choosing to live abroad makes people in my life sad, yet they support me so much! At the same time, I know that being here is the best place for me right now - I can't imagine being anywhere else. And I feel lucky that I'm able to be here.

I feel jealous of people who have what I don't have right now and a bit sorry for myself at times and the fact that I haven't found what I'm looking for - both emotions that I hate :(

I feel a bit of anger - mainly towards a particular someone and the fact that he occupies even a second of my thoughts, a second, that at this point, he doesn't come close to deserving.

I feel stress - particularly related to work.

I feel excitement and anticipation - for the upcoming places I have to visit, the people I get to see, the experiences I will have, and the inevitable fun that will surprise me along the way. . .

And I've been reminded that for someone who isn't especially emotional, sometimes emotions get the best of us - for better or worse. So, I'm trying to accept them, reflect on them, and hope that the positive ones soon outweigh the negative ones, as I know they will :)

Thoughts for today . . .

And think not you can
Direct the course of love,
For love,
If it finds you worthy,
Directs your course.

-Khalil Gibran

Those that go searching for love, only manifest their own lovelessness. And the loveless never find love, only the loving find love. And they never have to seek for it. - D. H. Lawrence

The road to finding "the one" is paved with a bit of promiscuity. - Ryan Erickson

The Adventures of Emily and Jenny - still happening after all these years!

Emily just left this afternoon after her third annual fall visit to Spain. And, as usual, we had a great time! Each year I reminded of how nice it is to have a friend who I know from home, which means we can share memories of particular places and people in Colorado, who I've traveled all over the world with, and who is living a similar life to mine at the moment. It's so nice to be able to share experiences with her!

We had a great time all week, especially with Amy and other friends visiting from Switzerland - great food, tons of laughs, and lots of fun. However, it was this past Friday night with Emily that was my favorite. After dinner with Amy, we went to a favorite neighborhood bar where we had drinks with new English friends, then went to one of my favorite clubs. Lots of flirting, dancing, and fun later, we were walking home around 6:30 in the morning when we stopped for food at a cafe and happened upon a French bachelor party! Fabulous French accents, breakfast beers, and entertaining conversation ended with us coming home at 7:30 -- crazy!

It was such a fun night and so unexpected (always the best nights in my opinion). I'm glad to know that even though we're at ages that are now "off the calendar," we still have it in us to have adventure-filled nights. I look forward to more of them in our future! :)

Holiday Plans

Although it seems like a long time away, it's hard to believe that the Christmas holidays will be here in less than 3 months! I had been debating about whether to return to the states this year for the holidays. I had SO much fun last year in Denver with friends and family, yet it also felt super-busy and like a lot of travel for not a lot of time. And it's such an expensive flight to buy at that time of year. So, even a few months ago, I thought I might be sticking around Europe this holiday season.

Well, I just confirmed these plans, although not for the reason I had anticipated months ago. Instead, it's because of something even better - a SBFF reunion! Anna will be in London for a few months during her summer holiday, so we have decided to reunite for our second Christmas together. This time, she'll be coming to Barcelona for Christmas and I will return with her to London for New Year's! I knew I wouldn't have been okay spending Christmas by myself and I'm so excited I get to spend it with Anna (and whomever else wants to join us in BCN!). Getting to see London, a place I've never been, with Anna and over New Year's, is just a great added bonus.

Although I am sad to not be with my family on Christmas, knowing I'll see my parents in just a few weeks, and that the rest of the Killion clan might be visiting this summer, and that I'll get to spend extended time in the states in the summer, makes it all worthwhile. And, the fact that I get to see Anna, who I was sure I wouldn't see for awhile (flights to Australia are just too pricey for me when I need to make it the US as well!) and have been missing terribly, makes me so happy.

Needless to say, I'm anxiously awaiting the holidays - and all of the fun that will happen before!

Christmas in Sevilla, 2009

(hopefully I'll take a better Christmas photo this year! :)

New Year's Eve in Milan, 2009

Maturity

"Maturity begins to grown when you can sense your concern for others outweighing your concern for yourself." - John MacNaughton

"Maturity is: the ability to stick with a job until it's finished; the ability to do a job without being supervised; the ability to carry money without spending it; and the ability to bear an injustice without wanting to get even." - Abigail Van Buren

I've been thinking a bit about maturity today and feel these quotes say a lot . . .

Updates

It's amazing how as I focus more on school, the less I seem to focus on everything else. I know I shouldn't be surprised by this, considering I've been this way for a decade. Yet, it does seem to surprise me each and every year! And so, since I've not been posting nearly as much as I did in the summer, here are a few updates:

- School is fantastic! My class grows on me more and more each day and definitely makes me laugh every day :)

- I'm starting private Spanish classes next week, hoping to just have lots of time to practice speaking, which is just what I need.

- We had groceries delivered for the first time tonight - amazing! Although it won't happen too often, it was so great to select everything we wanted online AND have someone else carry it up all 57 stairs! How fantastic!

- I've started going to yoga classes here consistently (thanks, Mark!), which have been amazing. More than anything, yoga is so clearly good for my mind and body - I feel wonderful afterwards! It's also great Spanish practice- although the teacher is British, she conducts the class in Spanish. I've definitely started to develop a new set of vocabulary - respira, respira! :)

- I have trips planned to the south of France with my parents in late October and a trip to Berlin planned with Anne and Tessa for Thanksgiving weekend - yea! I have a feeling a trip to London will be in my near future, too . . .

- With some tutoring I've picked up after school, I'm making enough extra money to afford Spanish and yoga classes, as well as fun European trips :) (I also had the realization that the money I'm making from tutoring is more than my best paychecks in Sevilla - as my dad said, amazing what having a legal job can mean!)

- Marybeth, the third new teacher who has stayed at our place in the past six weeks, will be moving into her new place next week. It's amazing just how convenient this third bedroom has been! It will be strange going back to just two of us again - it's been fun having a variety of people staying here - can't wait for the next one!

Overall, life is good! Marybeth and I were just talking about the moments when we realize "I LOVE this city." A year later, I'm happy to say that those moments continue to hit me when I least expect them. I look forward to the upcoming months - I have a feeling fall in Barcelona will be fantastic . . .

La Merce 10K

I decided to run the La Merce 10K again this year - although this time I actually registered instead of just jumping in. :) It's one of (if not the) biggest races in Barcelona. There are 14,000 registered runners, plus those who jump in.

Again, it was fantastic! Although I didn't train at all, I was pretty happy with my time and really enjoyed it. I was reminded again of how much I love the atmosphere of races - the people, the energy, the music. Runs in Spain are definitely different than the US, but still so much fun. Since I haven't run that distance since last year's race, I'm already anticipating some stiff legs tomorrow!

Tons of people starting near Montjuic

Tanya, Heather, and I before the race

This run kicks off La Merce. The La Merce Festival is known to be the week-long party that officially ends summer in Barcelona. When Anna, Katie, Serena, and I visited Barcelona two years ago, we just happened to come on La Merce weekend. Although we had no idea what was really going on, I vividly remember lots of fireworks, lots of people, and lots of beer! I was in Germany last year for Oktoberfest, so I'm really looking forward to experiencing this weekend - especially because many of the festivities happen pretty close to where we live!

There are concerts happening nightly, as well as lots of other small events. I'm most looking forward to seeing castellars (human castles, up to 8 people high!) and the correfoc (fire parades which I hope to not get too close to!). I have a feeling it's going to be a very fun weekend!

First Barcelona Wine Club = Success!

One of my most favorite things in Denver was our monthly Wine Club. It was always a great chance to spend time with my favorite girls, enjoy great wine and food, meet new people, and laugh a lot!

I decided recently that Wine Club needed to become a Barcelona tradition as well. Now that I've been here a year, made some great friends from school, and feel determined to make more Spanish friends, it seemed like the time was right.

I invited a few girls over to enjoy our first theme of "Mexican Food and White Wines." I'm happy to report that the night was a big success! 10 girls + 15 or so bottles of wine + lots of Mexican food = great stories, great laughs, and a really fun night! Although all of the girls this time were from ASB, I hope to see Wine Club expand to involve people from other social circles as well.

Hosting Wine Club here in Barcelona definitely made me miss my Denver girls, yet also made me feel like I'm really starting to settle in here. Amazing how wine and good company can do that. :) I'm already looking forward to the next BCN Wine Club!

Wine Club made a move from our place to a nearby bar around 2:00.

With some of my favorite BCN ladies - Lauren, Tessa, and Tanya!

The First Week of School

I'm happy to report that I survived the first week of school! It was questionable at times - having not had a full first week of school in years, having a group with 4 more kids than last year, and realizing that this class is like day and night from last year's! However, they were amazing yesterday, a feat for a Friday, and I feel confident that they are going to be a great challenge, a ton of fun, and a group I will never forget!

The biggest differences from last year's class to this group is that they talk even more (not unusual for a group with a lot of Spaniards!), they are academically lower and have a wider range of abilities, and that there are quite a few boys who can't be seated within 10 feet of each other without a conversation, play-fighting, or anything else happening! Luckily, once the behavior log was put in place, as well as consequences (thanks, Mary Robison!), kids started responding. Again, it's such a great reminder of the importance of high expectations and consistent follow-through.

My class is bigger due to having 12 new students in 5th grade this year! Most of these students are international, so it's helping to balance out the languages. At this point, I have students whose native languages are: English, Spanish, Catalan, Hungarian, Swedish, Korean, Greek, Afrikaans, Dutch, and Portuguese - it's pretty amazing!

I stayed at school pretty late all of last week and feel kind of nerdy for it! However, there is just always so much to do at the beginning of the year that you can use throughout, and to be completely honest, I love it! It's great to feel re-energized about teaching and believe that I can really help these kids to improve. Again, I'm missing the intensity and level of conversation from Crawford, but feel more prepared to bring pieces of it to ASB, poco a poco. (I am also feeling very grateful for all of the amazing flipcharts we made, too -- my room is looking SO much better already! :)

And so, the first week is over. A much-needed night in and 9 hours of sleep did wonders! I'm now off to do a bit more preparing. Below are some photos of my classroom - a year later, a horseshoe table, and some rearranging have it much improved!

We're ready to write!

classroom library and writing supplies

cabinets full of supplies for all sorts of things

and prepared for student work

student seats, homework, daily schedule

my teaching area

Success

"To laugh often and much, to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children . . . to leave the world a better place . . . to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded."

My principal, Nancy, shared this quote with us at the end of our staff meeting on Friday and I really like it. As usual, Ralph Waldo Emerson has a great perspective on things!

A New School Year Begins . . .

It's hard to believe, but I'll be starting my "first day of school" tomorrow as a teacher for the 10th time! It's amazing to me that even after all these years, I still feel a mixture of excitement and anxiety. Do I have everything prepared? Is there anything else I need to set up? Am I ready for the kids?

Since I was back at school a week early and had plenty of time to prepare, I can answer "yes" to all of the above questions. Yet, because teaching is a career that is always full of surprises, I know I will still be rushing around finishing things up tomorrow!

Although I can't say that I truly enjoy putting up bulletin boards, arranging furniture, and preparing copies, I can say that I love the newness of starting the year. I love opening new school supplies, organizing books and areas, and papers. I love the way the classroom looks neat and clean and seems to be begging to be filled up with students and learning!

As I finished up my room on Friday and finalized my first day of school plans, it made me realize how ready I am to teach again. I know how important "getting to know you" activities are, yet I have to force myself to do them instead of getting into the real teaching. I can't wait to share my love of reading and writing with kids, talk to them about matter and chemistry, help them learn about the relationships between numbers, and more! It's times like these that truly confirm teaching is what I'm meant to do - I love it so much.

So, since it's my final day before starting a new year, I have a few things to prepare for school and lots to do at home. And, as always, I have no doubt I won't be sleeping through the night. The excitement and anxiety of waking up on time, meeting my new class, and starting a new year will no doubt cause some restlessness! I can't wait to see what this new year will hold . . .

Our New Place!

Although there are a few things I'd still like to change up, I'm pretty happy with how our new place is looking! A trip to Ikea, some rearranging, new items - a TV, air conditioner, and a new washing machine and refrigerator being delivered tomorrow, are making for a pretty amazing place. It's definitely starting to feel like "home." Can't wait to start having visitors and more houseguests!

A space and table that I think will prove to be perfect for

dinners, entertaining, and maybe even flip cup . . .

our kitchen

living room and small terrace

my new Ikea purchase

my room

not always loving the noise, but loving the terrace!

the super-big bathroom

the little bathroom

Italy - amazing time after time!

Our recent trip to Cinque Terre confirmed the fact that there are few places I enjoy as much as Italy. Time and time again, I have loved every place I have visited there - Venice, Florence, Siena, Milan, Sardinia, and now Cinque Terre.

What made this trip so amazing? I think it was many things. First of all, the location was incredible. On the coast, yet built into the hills, "the 5 lands" could not have been more beautiful. The sea was stunning shades of blue, the hills so green, and the weather perfect. It was amazing. The fact that towns were full of multi-colored buildings just added to the postcard look of the place.

the view from our balcony in Monterosso

hiking into Vernazza

boats could be found everywhere, especially in Riomaggiore

I had anticipated that Cinque Terre would be full of tourists as well. Although there were plenty of them, most seemed to be Italian. The towns were bustling, but it was never overwhelming. I loved hearing Italian everywhere, particularly the old men yelling across the street to one another. The intonation, the words, the way people speak - I think I love Italian as much as I love Spanish.

Considering one of my most favorite foods is pesto, it's no wonder I loved Cinque Terre - a region known for it's pesto (due to the climate). I have never tasted such fresh, delicious pesto sauce in my life. I made it a personal mission to have at least one dish a day with pesto and I'm happy to say I accomplished my goal. :) In addition to that, the mozzarella, tomatoes, citrus fruits, wines, everything was delicious. And even better, it was so reasonable!

One of my favorite meals - pasta with pomodoro, parmigiana, and pesto.

Cinque Terre was such a relaxing place to be - whether sitting on our balcony reading, laying on the beach, or hiking between the five towns, I felt at peace. Needless to say, we were very sad to leave. I have no doubt that I will be back in Cinque Terre soon!

Our last night in Monterosso :(

Switzerland - the opposite of Spain? Almost!

The hills are alive with the sound of music . . .

Since Emily moved to Switzerland two years ago I've been dying to visit her. From her stories and pictures to "The Sound of Music," I always wondered what it would be like. Although I had some expectations, I have to admit that it fully surpassed them!

First of all, Switzerland is definitely the most naturally beautiful place I have ever been. The mountains, the lakes, the rolling green hills, the colorful flowers found everywhere - wow. Many times it seemed like I was looking at photo-shopped pictures! From what Emily told me, it's clear that Swiss customs have kept the country looking so beautiful. The rules and regulations regarding laundry, garbage, recycling, etc. are pretty impressive!

Such quiet, clean streets, even after Swiss Day!

I imagine Switzerland also keeps out too many tourists (purposefully or not?) due to the cost of things. Emily had always said it was expensive there, so I was expecting it. However, it proved to be even more so than I imagined! For example, a beer usually cost around 7 swiss francs, which is about equal to the euro. A kebab - 10, take-out Chinese - 18, a bus ticket - 2.80, a train ticket - 20-240! Wow. It really was shocking. Unless you are being paid accordingly (or happen to have a lot of money), there is no way someone could spend very long in Switzerland.

I was also amazed by the trust and safety there. Very few people lock up their bikes, watch their bags, or lock their doors. It just seems to be known that people won't take what isn't theirs. Amazing! In addition, people were so helpful and friendly. If we were lost, someone would quickly offer to help.

Bikes were everywhere! And I think 90% of them weren't locked up!

I also began to really enjoy hearing Swiss-German. In general, I don't particularly like the sound of the German language. However, Swiss-German has such a sing-song quality to it - it really grew on me, even though I had no idea what was being said! And, like in most European countries, it was so impressive to know that these people understood so many languages. (Apparently Swiss-German is only a spoken language, so most Swiss also speak/read/write high German, as well as English, French, and Italian, depending on what region they live in.)

I loved Switzerland - I felt like I was on a mountain holiday while there! The quietness, the fresh air, the natural beauty - it was incredible. Yet another reason I love living in Europe - a 1.5 hour flight and I can be in a place where the landscape, the people, the foods, the language, and the lifestyle can be completely different, yet equally fantastic.

However, in so many ways, Switzerland almost seemed to be the opposite of Spain. And, at the end of the day, I was ready to be back here - the noise, the energy, the 2 euro beers, the sea. All of these things, for me, make up for the fact that I have to watch my purse at all moments, that the streets might not be clean, that tourists are everywhere, and that most things aren't exactly efficient! Oh, Espana - I love you!

Newbies!

This summer I've been the coordinator for new teachers at ASB. When Mark asked if I would be interested, I jumped at the chance for a number of reasons. I SO appreciated Katharine, who had been the coordinator when I started. I also loved all of the work I did with new teachers in APS. But I think the main reason I was interested is because I love Spain SO much and I always want other people to love it as much as I do. I know this won't always be the case, but I figure whatever I can do to help that happen, whether it include creating a tour itinerary for friends and family or showing new teachers around town, it's well worth it!

Because we have so many new teachers this year, it's proved to be quite a job! Nothing too difficult, but lots of planning, organizing, emailing, and trying to keep information straight. I was definitely feeling a bit of stress from it, but now that almost everyone has arrived I feel so much better. It's fun to see and talk to everyone and remember what it was like when I first arrived in Spain two years ago. This group seems to have an amazing range of experiences and stories - international teaching is fascinating! They are so energetic, social, and fun. It makes me excited to think that some of these new people will likely become good friends this year as well.

And, as the responsibilities of this job wind down, I'm getting more and more excited to begin my second year at ASB and no longer be one of the new kids on the block . . .

in the right place - literally AND figuratively

I'm sure it's the start of a new year, as well as many conversations in the past two weeks about men and life abroad, that has caused me to reflect on my life in Spain, in relation to the opposite sex. Although I have only had one definable relationship in my time here, there have been a few guys that have caught my eye.

Anna knew two of them and we often discussed the importance of timing when it comes to relationships. Whether it be the time in one's life or the physical place one happens to be, timing really does seem to be everything!

I've been thinking about how in one case, the timing and place were off - although never impossible, it's pretty difficult to start something while in two different countries. In another, the place could have worked, but the timing was just a little too late. And in the last, the place was perfect, but the timing in life was all wrong.

I have always been, and think I will always be, a hopeless romantic; so, I believe love can overcome most obstacles, time and place included. However, I also hope that the next guapo that really catches my eye happens to be in the right place and time, both literally and figuratively. :)

New Address!

Although we've still got some work to do, Tessa and I have successfully moved into our new place! I will post some pictures once we've visited Ikea and added the finishing touches. Here's my updated contact info which includes a kind of crazy street name and my first ever Spanish "home" phone number! :)

Carrer l'Hostal d'en Sol, 7

3° B

08003 Barcelona

Spain

Home: +34 932 691 114

Cell: +34 658 157 504

Change

In the past few years, I have really realized how much I both love and hate change. The excitement and anticipation that something new is coming and that you get to essentially start over again is one that I love! Yet, life not feeling the same, people changing, and starting over again can be SO scary as well!

As much as I love to make changes for myself, I've often struggled when others have made changes that have indirectly affected me. For example, friends moving away, getting married, or having babies - changes that are so positive and that I am so happy about, yet also feel sad because I know things will no longer be the same as they used to be.

It was so exciting to essentially start my life over in Sevilla two years ago, then do it again in Barcelona this year. I loved the anticipation of all the new experiences I would have, the people I would meet, the things I would see. And it was great! Yet, I have no desire, at all, to start over again anytime soon. As wonderful as that type of change can be, it's also terrifying and exhausting at the same time. As much as I love big changes, I equally love feeling settled, developing friendships, and feeling like I'm home.

But, with beginning a new year (for teachers, it feels like our "new year" always begins in August, not January :) that doesn't involve any huge changes like moving across the world or across a country - something I am VERY grateful for - it seems I still feel the need for some changes to happen.

Although I was hesitant at first, due to absolutely loving my apartment and living on my own, I am SO excited to be moving in with Tessa in a few days! A new (and much bigger!) space to call home, an apartment ideal for socializing with friends, and a place to start making new memories could not be coming at a better time. And with our personalities, I have no doubt we will have a lot of fun living together.

Visiting new places, experiencing different cultures, and seeing new landscapes is a change I crave. For this reason, I am SO excited to be going to Switzerland next week - a country that I envision being like Colorado on steroids - a place unlike any I've seen before. The added bonus of getting to visit a part of Italy I've never seen and spending ten days with one of my favorite traveling companions makes it even more exciting.

And finally, a physical change. Every time I go to get my haircut, my mom asks what I'm going to do. For ten years now, my response has been something like, "Oh, just a trim, take off an inch or two." And her response almost always sounds something like, "Oh - pretty risky, Jenny!" I've been thinking about a change for awhile, but have really loved having long hair. I knew I would back out if I took too long to decide, so after encouragement from friends (especially one Anna Morgan, "Your hair is thick, voluminous, and prosperous, and if you hate it, it will grow back - carpe diem!" Love you and your adjectives, Anna - thanks!), I went for it. In the spirit of summertime, a new year, and a new look, I got A LOT of my hair cut off yesterday! For the first time in about ten years, I can't say that I have long hair -- yikes! They actually called it a "transformation" cut! It feels completely different, I think I love it.

Changes can come in all shapes and sizes - new places to visit, a new home, a new job, a new relationship, a new addition to the family, a new philosophy on life, a new look. Although it's not always positive, and sometimes it's scary, I love what change can bring - a chance to reinvent yourself, gain confidence, experience something new, and ultimately, a chance to grow as a person. I already look forward to the other changes this new year will bring . . .

" Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights. "

~Pauline R. Kezer

"The Girl" - City and Colour

Tessa shared this video with me a few weeks ago and it couldn't have been more perfect at the time. I finally downloaded it and love it - such beautiful lyrics, guitar, and slow to fast tempo. Check it out!

La Playa

I imagine it's due to living in Indianapolis and Denver for years - two very landlocked cities - that I have come to love living so close to the sea. Although I loved going to the beach for vacation and was always excited to see and hear the ocean, I never missed it that much once I was gone. However, since moving to Barcelona, that has changed so much!

I know I'm currently on summer vacation, but the fact that I can have my toes in the sand, looking at the Mediterranean, in 15 minutes by foot or by bike often makes me feel like I'm permanently on vacation! The breeze, the hot sand, the sea, people relaxing and tanning everywhere - it's something I have completely fallen in love with. Since being back in Barcelona, I think I've been to the beach about four afternoons a week. Since the hottest hours seem to be 4-6pm, there's never a rush to get there, either.

Although I definitely miss my Colorado mountains, the sea has definitely pulled me in - you can tell just by how much my freckle count has increased! :) I look forward to enjoying this aspect of Barcelona as much as possible, both in the summer and year-round.

When life gives you lemons . . .

I fully recognize that this is such a cliche, but . . . I still think it is such a good one to live by! The past two weeks have not been the easiest - I've learned that people are not always as they seem, red flags are red flags for a reason, not everything makes sense, and that sometimes I just won't get the answers I'm looking for. Like the song says, breaking up is hard to do!

However, time, Spanish classes, conversations with friends and my mom, fun, moving, and travel plans have made things turn around quickly. Thanks to two of my wonderful friends - the rest of the summer is looking pretty fantastic!

I was able to spend the past weekend in Madrid, feeling like a tourist in Spain again, while visiting Tessa. She's there working on her masters for the month of July. Even with the work she had to do, she was so welcoming and provided the fun and conversation I definitely needed. I had been missing my Barcelona BF desperately!

Next week, I move into our new (fabulous!) apartment, then leave for Switzerland to visit Emily. I was originally planning to spend just a few days there, but with a very gracious and persuasive email from her, I will now be staying an extra week to go to Cinque Terra and enjoy a huge street parade in Zurich! Mountains, beaches, Italian men, and good food and wine are sounding like heaven. (Plus, I can't wait to see what happens on this "Adventures with Emily and Jenny" trip - our last one to Chile/Argentina is what made us both move to Europe!)

Although it was a pretty sour start to the second half of my summer break, it's looking like I'll be able to make some very sweet lemonade after all. (You're the best, ladies - thanks! :)

La Capital - Madrid

This past weekend, I visited Tessa in Madrid. Although I have been to the airport and train station a few times, I had never actually explored Spain's capital. What an amazing city it is! The history, the art, the culture, the Spanish - it was fantastic.

The highlight of my trip was definitely visiting the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. The "Meet the Artist" project that my 5th graders did really gave me a new understanding and appreciation of art. It was so fantastic to visit this museum and see at least one piece by almost every well-known artist I've heard of - Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet, Renoir, Degas, Gaugin, Klee, Dali, Pollack - the list goes on and on! I also loved the layout of this museum - it was easy to get around and not too overwhelming (unlike Reina Sofia - fantastic, but a little too much for me). Although it's probably not what most people would say, if you visit one art museum, I recommend this one.

In addition, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Plaza Santa Ana, and Parque del Buen Retiro were beautiful to see. The city definitely buzzes with energy - something I love. The metro system is fantastic in Madrid, so it was easy to get everywhere as well.

Plaza Mayor

Palacio de Cristal in Parque Buen Retiro

One of the best, and most surprising, highlights of this trip was the Spanish. I think I heard and spoke more Spanish in four days in Madrid than I have in six months in Barcelona! Tessa and I had a number of conversations about this - it's crazy how different it is! First of all, everything is in Spanish, not Catalan, which makes a huge difference. It also seemed like the majority of the tourists there were Spanish tourists, not Americans, British, Germans, etc. Because of this (maybe?), everyone in restaurants and bars spoke to us in Spanish. Often times in Barcelona they will switch to English as soon as it becomes clear you're not a native Spanish or Catalan speaker. It really put into perspective how difficult it can be to learn Spanish while living in Barcelona . . .

With that said, as much as I loved visiting Madrid, my heart is definitely in Barca. I think the combination of the beach, the Mediterranean breeze, the size of the city, and the lifestyle makes it a better fit for me. However, I would visit Madrid again in a heartbeat - I know there is a lot more for me to see.

Holy, Toledo!

If you have a few days in Madrid, Toledo should be a must on your list of day trips! It's a city Anna and I had hoped to visit on our summer trip last year, but just weren't able to make it. I am so glad I was able to visit - what an amazing place!

Within minutes of walking into the city, I fell in love. I don't know why, but I immediately liked the feel of it. The narrow, stone streets were very reminiscent of Sevilla, yet the hilly-ness of the city reminded me of the mountains. The stone and bricks everywhere, the history, the beautiful buildings - they definitely made Toledo one of my favorite cities in Spain!

I loved the streets!

Once arriving at the train station (only a 30 minute/20 euro trip from Madrid), you can walk or take a bus or taxi into the old center. I chose to walk, and although it only took about 20 minutes, a large portion of that walk was up tons of stairs - whew! From there, I just wandered around the streets, knowing that I would happen upon the sights I wanted to see. (FYI - most of the streets are brick and stone - not so nice for walking! Make sure you have comfortable shoes :)

As well as being the old capital of Spain, Toledo has some really interesting history. At one point, Muslims, Jews, and Catholics were all living in the city together - pretty unusual in Spanish history! For this reason, there are still multiple churches, a mosque, and a synagogue.

La Catedral

In addition to the history, I found everyone super-friendly and food and drinks surprisingly inexpensive - always a plus in my book. Yep - Toledo is definitely a city worth seeing!

Old Spanish men hanging out in the plaza made me love the city even more!

Segovia - a great place to visit for amazing architecture and . . . baby pigs!

Segovia is a fantastic day trip to make from Madrid - only 30 minutes and 20 euros round trip on Renfe! Segovia is known for it's amazing Roman aqueduct, built in the 1st century. Its considered to be one of the most well-preserved in Europe. It constantly amazes me to see structures that have lasted so long.

In addition to the aqueduct, beautiful cathedral, and alcazar, Segovia is also known for it's cochinillo - roasted suckling pig. Although I knew we were going to be eating this, the reality of seeing a whole baby pig on a platter was still a little shocking to me! The preparation and cutting of the pig are a very traditional part of Segovia. They actually use plates to chop it up - it's that tender! We went to Restaurante Jose Maria, one recommended by some Madrileños . It was fantastic - amazing food and some of the best red wine I have had in awhile.

Yum!?

If you're looking for a day trip from Madrid, Segovia is definitely worth a visit!