Last Class Day

Our final cram session for a deadline... Stu***ts in Europe group project! I'm going to miss these fun assignments!

So Sonar

I had a blast with Sasha and Abbie this past weekend in Barcelona. Sonar Music Fest was amazing. Can I please go back??!

Castle of the Kings

Yesterday we went to El Escorial to visit the castle where all of the Spanish kings lived -- and are buried. We took about an hour bus ride to get there (I got way too car sick and ended up throwing up), but witnessed the most amazing architecture and views. The castle included original paintings, actual bedrooms, old keys, and even the tombs of the kings, queens & their children. It was very surreal being in a circular room with dozens of dead royal beings. 

Before we departed for the second part of our day trip, we all had lunch in the small village restaurant that was over 200 years old. As Professor Karl put it, "Dudes with wigs used to eat here." We all chowed down on our three course meal and drank heaps of red wine, while a man played his accordion in our private room... it was magical. 

The last journey of the day meant us climbing up the mountains next to the castle. It was quite the hike, but the view at the mountain tops were unreal. We even got to sit where the king used to sit as he watched his castle being built! The only difference was that he was carried up the hill...

One of the most amazing views/days yet. I love Madrid!

Sushi in España!

Tonight, we had a yummy sushi family dinner for Abdul's birthday. Ordering sushi in Spain is ten times more difficult than the US!

Shout out to all my lovely coworkers at Sansu back home :)

Bull Fight Friday

Tickets bought, cameras ready, and hearts pounding, we made our way to the Bull Ring for the 7 pm showing. The atmosphere mirrored that of an American baseball game, while we knew that this ancient sport was far from your "take me out to the ball game" experience...

Today was my first and last bull fight I will see. No màs, por favor.

Lost?

Today's adventures consisted of getting lost two separate times: once by myself and once with Hannah and Kaelin. I guess I never realized how directionally challenged I was until I was thrown into foreign city!

Frantically searching for the nearest public swimming pool, the girls and I stumbled upon a Spanish zoo outside of the city... Despite the desire for a cold dip in the pool, I couldn't be mad because we ended up finding the yummiest gelato shop!

The best part of today was the fact that I felt very at ease. I had no where to go, no one to see, no other obligations --- I wasn't in a hurry. 

I was able to wander and learn more about the city better than ever. 

Goodbye, Hello

Adios Barcelona, hola Madrid! 

As we prepare for a next journey en Espana, a peek into the past few weeks has allowed me to truly appreciate this experience. The positive benefits I have gained thus far are beyond what I ever imagined them to be... I am such a lucky & blessed girl to see, live, & experience what I have. And I'm not even half way done! Muchos gracias to those who have helped me get where I am right now. I love you all!

Viva Espana