Well it's now been a week since I've been back. Saying goodbye was quick and rushed because Liz and I got flowers for mamacita but by the time they were done and we were heading home, we didn't have much time. So we hurried back, gave them to her, took a picture, and they helped us bring our suitcases down and say goodbye.
The trip home was a very long 28 hours with some experiences along the way. The bus to Madrid wasn't that bad - going almost anywhere in Spain is fine because of the beautiful mountain scenery. We get to Madrid and went to tackle the metro with all our luggage. My shoulders were killing me because my suitcases where one rolling one and a duffle bag, plus my backpack as my carryon. Kathleen and Liz had two rolling suitcases which made getting through the metro interesting. But we made it to the airport and hung around the food area. Then we got our tickets and were soon off to Frankfurt. Our plane arrived late, cutting our hour layover to about half an hour so we ran through everything and to our gate to have them print our boarding passes. Well unfortunately they only printed Liz's going to Canada and not the one to Chicago too but they said it would be fine. Turns out it wasn't fine. We got to the desk and they said check-in had been closed for 30 minutes and there was nothing they could do to get her boarding pass and onto the plane. Kathleen and I had ours so we could either go without her or stay with her and go on the next plane to Chicago. We were short on time too, especially after trying to figure out anything that could be done for Liz. We had to make a quick decision to go or stay and we went for it. When we got through we didn't feel right at all leaving her and tried to go back but weren't allowed to. We felt horrible all the way to Chicago and kept on going over things. So when we got to Chicago, I wasn't as excited as I would have been if Liz had been with us. We got our luggage (thankfully because that was a mess in itself too) and called our families to find out where to meet them. When I saw my mom and sister I forgot about everything that had happened and my excitement came back. I wanted to run but didn't want to leave my luggage, but Kathleen told me to go for it so I did.
Being back those first few days was just so.. weird. Even though things were the same, it all seemed so different/strange/comfortable at the same time. Now Spain seems so far away and like a dream almost.
Adjusting back wasn't too bad. The first couple days I went to bed around 10 and got up at 6 or 7 but now it's gotten more normal. I'm back to the usual American times of eating and enjoying controlling what I eat although I miss some of the home-cooked mamacita meals. I'm avoiding bread and spaghetti for a while though.
It was great to hang out with my friends all last weekend. We went to graduation parties and hung out before and after. Even though some of the things we were talking about just seemed so.. not what I was used to talking about.. I just felt comfortable being there and being me. Went to lunch with Lizzie, Emily, Ryan, and Jared one day and Kathleen and Nicole the next. Hung out with Kory and Harrison yesterday. Foods and places I've been to are reeses, El Porton, my cereal, oatmeal, oreo balls, veggie and fruit pizza, (other grad food), IHOP (blueberry pancakes!), pretzel and coconut m&ms, Moe's, Quiznos, hot dogs and shells/cheese, tofurkey sandwich.. etc. But no worries.. I've been workout out too on the treadmill, the wii fit, weights, and crunches. I stayed the same weight! Actually I lost a couple pounds and my BMI went down a tiny bit too. :)
I've had lots to do and things to figure out. I even have to use my planner for it all. I had my easy math test, meeting with my nursing advisor, hair cut tomorrow, student health services the next two weeks for physical, labs, TB, etc for the nursing program, I need to get certified in CPR sometime, fitted for uniforms, etc. I applied at a couple BroMenn jobs but I doubt I'll get them so next week I'll probably look into heritage and see about going back there. I'm not going to be too picky.. I just need a job like asap. Ohhh the busy American lifestyle.. how I didn't really miss it.
I finally got everything put away in my room today.
Alright well.. seeing as how my adventures in Europe are finished for now, it's back to my other journal.
Adios!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Thursday, May 27, 2010
The End.
The rest of our trip this weekend was great. The sun continued to shine and it was beautiful.
Our second day in Ireland, we met up with a friend of mine studying in Ireland. We went for lunch and had some nice Irish food then headed to see some cathedrals/crypts and a museum. Then we went to a pub and enjoyed some Bulmers. It's an Irish cider and a great substitute for people to don't drink beer. We were asked to leave the pub after Sadie tried sneaking in some store-bought Bulmers to drink there.. haha didn't work out so well but they were nice about it. So we headed to the park and botelloned until we ran out and really had to pee. We fixed both those problems. We headed back to the park to wait for Sadie's friend (an Irish man) to get done with his meeting nearby but after waiting a while we tried to find where the meeting was. Then Sadie really had to pee and headed to the park to do so but asked a guard along the way where she could use a bathroom but when she passed with a police man, Nicole got super worried and followed them. Really all that happened was he took her into a building that people aren't supposed to go in and let her use the bathroom. Hah. Anyways we met up with her friend and the people in the meeting went to the bar we got kicked out of so we headed to dinner and he met up with us there later. We ate some Chinese food - I got tofu and vegetables which was good although it didn't compare to home. Afterwards botelloned some more and went to a few pubs. Nicole and I headed back to our hostel around 1 or 2 because we had to be up for going on a tour.
We'd wanted to do the Wicklow mountain tour buuut they were full. So instead we took a celtic tour to historical places a little outside of Dublin. It was nice and learning about the history was interesting. We were a little worried about getting back in time to head to the airport, especially when he extended our amount of time we could stay at the last place. But we got back, got our stuff, grabbed some food, and got to the airport no problem and with time to spare. Then we were off to Scotland!
The people's accents there are thicker so it was hard to understand at first but I got used to it and didn't have too bad a time afterwards. Our hostel was nice enough - I'm almost positive it used to be a dorm building - but Glasgow in general is kind of a shady area. We didn't have any problems though.
On Sunday morning we went to Edinburgh and went to the castle and a camera obscura show with all kinds of optical illusions on the way. It was a fun day and the whole trip, we were just doing whatever we wanted without a pre-set plan which was actually a lot of fun. We were supposed to meet Nicole's uncle and family in Edinburgh but luckily we went to use the internet and he was on because he wanted to meet up in Glasgow instead. So we headed back and met them at our hostel. It was her uncle, aunt, and 2 cousins. They were so nice and easy to keep a conversation with. They took us out to an Italian restaurant where they got past and we got pizza then we all got dessert. I hope when they visit family in Chicago that I can come visit too! They walked with us back to the hostel and we went our separate ways. Then Nicole and I just walked around the city for a while before heading back, using the internet, watching some TV, and heading to bed.
The next day we went to see the cathedral, an art museum, walked around town, got our stuff, ate lunch at subway, and headed to the station. We got to the airport kind of early but that was fine because we played some card games, colored, read, etc. Then eventually we were on our last Ryanair flight back to Malaga. However.. the only time Ryanair has ever been late is the one time it actually mattered since we needed to go straight from the airport to the bus station. We hurried through the airport and took a taxi to the bus station. Although we were a decent amount late, thankfully our bus was still there. Unfortunately.. it was full but he still let us on.. we just had to sit on the steps leading to the bathroom and the side door.. for 1.5 hours. Oh well.. it could have been worse. Another bus wouldn't have left for Granada until 1 in the morning.
I would like to say I've been doing nothing but enjoying and relaxing during my last days in Granada but I've been packing and working on my math homework.. with some relaxing, sure.
Tuesday night we all went to eat out at a pizza place for our last get-together in Granada. We were all really full afterwards so we decided to just head our separate ways and took some pictures before doing so. Megan and Nicole left yesterday for Madrid and they flight home around noon today.
Kathleen, Liz, and I have been doing last-minute souvenir shopping and getting everything packed. Tomorrow we're meeting at 5 to take a taxi or two to the bus station and heading to Madrid at 6. We'll get there around 11 or so and either take the metro or taxi to the airport where we'll wait until our 6:20 flight HOME! I really hope we make it through everything alright, especially with such short layovers.
I can't believe it's finally here. Studying abroad has been the best thing ever. I've grown a lot, learned a ton, made amazing friends, gone beautiful and interesting places, and have just had a blast. I know I had my low points but that doesn't mean I didn't appreciate where I was and what I was doing.
Alright well my next update will be from my own room back in the good ol' town of Normal in the USA! :)
Our second day in Ireland, we met up with a friend of mine studying in Ireland. We went for lunch and had some nice Irish food then headed to see some cathedrals/crypts and a museum. Then we went to a pub and enjoyed some Bulmers. It's an Irish cider and a great substitute for people to don't drink beer. We were asked to leave the pub after Sadie tried sneaking in some store-bought Bulmers to drink there.. haha didn't work out so well but they were nice about it. So we headed to the park and botelloned until we ran out and really had to pee. We fixed both those problems. We headed back to the park to wait for Sadie's friend (an Irish man) to get done with his meeting nearby but after waiting a while we tried to find where the meeting was. Then Sadie really had to pee and headed to the park to do so but asked a guard along the way where she could use a bathroom but when she passed with a police man, Nicole got super worried and followed them. Really all that happened was he took her into a building that people aren't supposed to go in and let her use the bathroom. Hah. Anyways we met up with her friend and the people in the meeting went to the bar we got kicked out of so we headed to dinner and he met up with us there later. We ate some Chinese food - I got tofu and vegetables which was good although it didn't compare to home. Afterwards botelloned some more and went to a few pubs. Nicole and I headed back to our hostel around 1 or 2 because we had to be up for going on a tour.
We'd wanted to do the Wicklow mountain tour buuut they were full. So instead we took a celtic tour to historical places a little outside of Dublin. It was nice and learning about the history was interesting. We were a little worried about getting back in time to head to the airport, especially when he extended our amount of time we could stay at the last place. But we got back, got our stuff, grabbed some food, and got to the airport no problem and with time to spare. Then we were off to Scotland!
The people's accents there are thicker so it was hard to understand at first but I got used to it and didn't have too bad a time afterwards. Our hostel was nice enough - I'm almost positive it used to be a dorm building - but Glasgow in general is kind of a shady area. We didn't have any problems though.
On Sunday morning we went to Edinburgh and went to the castle and a camera obscura show with all kinds of optical illusions on the way. It was a fun day and the whole trip, we were just doing whatever we wanted without a pre-set plan which was actually a lot of fun. We were supposed to meet Nicole's uncle and family in Edinburgh but luckily we went to use the internet and he was on because he wanted to meet up in Glasgow instead. So we headed back and met them at our hostel. It was her uncle, aunt, and 2 cousins. They were so nice and easy to keep a conversation with. They took us out to an Italian restaurant where they got past and we got pizza then we all got dessert. I hope when they visit family in Chicago that I can come visit too! They walked with us back to the hostel and we went our separate ways. Then Nicole and I just walked around the city for a while before heading back, using the internet, watching some TV, and heading to bed.
The next day we went to see the cathedral, an art museum, walked around town, got our stuff, ate lunch at subway, and headed to the station. We got to the airport kind of early but that was fine because we played some card games, colored, read, etc. Then eventually we were on our last Ryanair flight back to Malaga. However.. the only time Ryanair has ever been late is the one time it actually mattered since we needed to go straight from the airport to the bus station. We hurried through the airport and took a taxi to the bus station. Although we were a decent amount late, thankfully our bus was still there. Unfortunately.. it was full but he still let us on.. we just had to sit on the steps leading to the bathroom and the side door.. for 1.5 hours. Oh well.. it could have been worse. Another bus wouldn't have left for Granada until 1 in the morning.
I would like to say I've been doing nothing but enjoying and relaxing during my last days in Granada but I've been packing and working on my math homework.. with some relaxing, sure.
Tuesday night we all went to eat out at a pizza place for our last get-together in Granada. We were all really full afterwards so we decided to just head our separate ways and took some pictures before doing so. Megan and Nicole left yesterday for Madrid and they flight home around noon today.
Kathleen, Liz, and I have been doing last-minute souvenir shopping and getting everything packed. Tomorrow we're meeting at 5 to take a taxi or two to the bus station and heading to Madrid at 6. We'll get there around 11 or so and either take the metro or taxi to the airport where we'll wait until our 6:20 flight HOME! I really hope we make it through everything alright, especially with such short layovers.
I can't believe it's finally here. Studying abroad has been the best thing ever. I've grown a lot, learned a ton, made amazing friends, gone beautiful and interesting places, and have just had a blast. I know I had my low points but that doesn't mean I didn't appreciate where I was and what I was doing.
Alright well my next update will be from my own room back in the good ol' town of Normal in the USA! :)
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Dublin!
Even though I was nervous up until the day we left for our flight to be cancelled due to the volcano, here we are in Ireland. So far I absolutely love it! I don't know if it's just because people in Spain aren't nice but everyone here seems to be really friendly and helpful. Last night we got in about 12:30 their time and made our way to our hostel with the help of our bus drivers and another guy going to the same place. People were already asleep in our room so we quickly got ready for bed and crawled into our top bunks. I didn't sleep that well but I feel exhausted now so hopefully tonight will be better.
We enjoyed our free breakfast and then headed out to wander around until the free walking tour. The tour was from 11-3:30 and it was interesting to hear the history behind everything and get shown around. We were starving by the end and stopped by Subway which was connected with a snack shop where I found crispy M&Ms!! So naturally I got 3 large bags of them since I've been looking for them eeeveryywhere! Anyways so then we went to the train station and headed to Howth. We fed fish to some seals, walked along the water and down a dock to sit for a little while. The sun was shining, it was beautiful, and it was relaxing. We went back to sit by the seals for a little while then grabbed something to eat. Then we took the train back to the city and came to this internet cafe.
Tomorrow we're meeting up with my friend Sadie for lunch and hanging out afterwards. On Saturday we're thinking about doing a guided tour around the mountains where Braveheart and P.S. I love You were filmed. Then we fly out to Scotland.
So school is officially over and I'm a junior! The rest of my finals were easy enough and I hope I didn't make too many silly mistakes or anything. It was kind of a rough week because Monday my online stats class started. Well the program for doing assignments isn't compatible with macs and I don't have the discs with me to use the programs that allow you to run Windows. I tried a bunch of things to make different programs work but no luck. Finally I downloaded it on Liz's computer and worked my butt off to get all the assignments done that needed to be until I get back to Granada. Freaking pain in the ass. When I get back home I'll download it using the parallels and hopefully not have any problems.
Speaking of which I have a week from tomorrow until I'm on a plane back to the states! I can't believe it's so close but I'm excited!
Well hopefully I get some good sleep tonight and am alive, awake, alert, and enthusiastic for tomorrow. I hope our random roommates don't come back too drunk from their night out and keep us all up. I'm so not going to miss staying in hostels.
Hasta luego!
We enjoyed our free breakfast and then headed out to wander around until the free walking tour. The tour was from 11-3:30 and it was interesting to hear the history behind everything and get shown around. We were starving by the end and stopped by Subway which was connected with a snack shop where I found crispy M&Ms!! So naturally I got 3 large bags of them since I've been looking for them eeeveryywhere! Anyways so then we went to the train station and headed to Howth. We fed fish to some seals, walked along the water and down a dock to sit for a little while. The sun was shining, it was beautiful, and it was relaxing. We went back to sit by the seals for a little while then grabbed something to eat. Then we took the train back to the city and came to this internet cafe.
Tomorrow we're meeting up with my friend Sadie for lunch and hanging out afterwards. On Saturday we're thinking about doing a guided tour around the mountains where Braveheart and P.S. I love You were filmed. Then we fly out to Scotland.
So school is officially over and I'm a junior! The rest of my finals were easy enough and I hope I didn't make too many silly mistakes or anything. It was kind of a rough week because Monday my online stats class started. Well the program for doing assignments isn't compatible with macs and I don't have the discs with me to use the programs that allow you to run Windows. I tried a bunch of things to make different programs work but no luck. Finally I downloaded it on Liz's computer and worked my butt off to get all the assignments done that needed to be until I get back to Granada. Freaking pain in the ass. When I get back home I'll download it using the parallels and hopefully not have any problems.
Speaking of which I have a week from tomorrow until I'm on a plane back to the states! I can't believe it's so close but I'm excited!
Well hopefully I get some good sleep tonight and am alive, awake, alert, and enthusiastic for tomorrow. I hope our random roommates don't come back too drunk from their night out and keep us all up. I'm so not going to miss staying in hostels.
Hasta luego!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Last weekend in Granada
So since I won't be here next weekend, I went to the goodbye party at the church last night and went to the noon service today. The party was fun - we just played a bunch of random games that were sometimes hard to understand the directions to buuut oh well. Afterwards we had pizza which was awesome because I had been crazing pizza all week long. I've also had a huuuge chocolate craving this weekend which is why I went to corte ingles and got some dark chocolate and white chocolate with blueberries. Yes that's right.. I don't know what change but I LOVE dark chocolate now. Anywho - They're both healthier chocolate than normal though (the kind of people on diets) so that makes it okay.. right?? Right okay so anyways. Umm I wore my dress to church this morning and I'm planning on wearing it a day this week too since it's finally nice and warm again. I even went to the park to study/catch some sun earlier.
I have my grammar test tomorrow and poe on Wednesday then we leave for Ireland! We're planning on doing one of the bus tours to get around so that'll be nice and not as stressful. We just need to book our hostels..
This week is going to be interesting with everyone leaving on random days. I mean I suppose it won't really affect me because I usually don't see much of the rest of the group outside of class and going out but.. still. Facebook statuses of everyone leaving and then when they get home.. it'll be weird! As the time draws closer, the sad side of leaving Granada is coming a little more especially as I've been having the "last time" for some things. But I suppose I'm lucky in the fact that I'm not that attached to anything or anyone here. There will be things and people to miss, that's for sure - but nothing really serious.
My online math class starts tomorrow.. ugh. Buuut I think it's a work at your own pace, just have things done by the end of the week type of thing. So if we have homework to start on I'm going to try and do as much as I can Tuesday when I don't have any finals so I don't have to do that much in Ireland. I'm sure I'll still have some to do but Nicole has an online class too so we both need to set time aside.
Anyways other than that there isn't really anything new. I'm gonna go get ready for a run and then head out! Hopefully it's cooled down a little but probably not a lot. And those white pollen things falling everywhere are so annoying when running. I need to run off the pizza and chocolate though.
I have my grammar test tomorrow and poe on Wednesday then we leave for Ireland! We're planning on doing one of the bus tours to get around so that'll be nice and not as stressful. We just need to book our hostels..
This week is going to be interesting with everyone leaving on random days. I mean I suppose it won't really affect me because I usually don't see much of the rest of the group outside of class and going out but.. still. Facebook statuses of everyone leaving and then when they get home.. it'll be weird! As the time draws closer, the sad side of leaving Granada is coming a little more especially as I've been having the "last time" for some things. But I suppose I'm lucky in the fact that I'm not that attached to anything or anyone here. There will be things and people to miss, that's for sure - but nothing really serious.
My online math class starts tomorrow.. ugh. Buuut I think it's a work at your own pace, just have things done by the end of the week type of thing. So if we have homework to start on I'm going to try and do as much as I can Tuesday when I don't have any finals so I don't have to do that much in Ireland. I'm sure I'll still have some to do but Nicole has an online class too so we both need to set time aside.
Anyways other than that there isn't really anything new. I'm gonna go get ready for a run and then head out! Hopefully it's cooled down a little but probably not a lot. And those white pollen things falling everywhere are so annoying when running. I need to run off the pizza and chocolate though.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Finals
Thank goodness this week is over. I spent a lot of time studying, very little time sleeping, and a lot of concentration on my finals. I had art at 8:30 and literature at 11:30. I felt that they both went really well - for art there was an artist that I didn't know and a couple other details I wasn't sure about here and there but I'm not worried about it - for literature I wrote down everything I remembered which was a lot so I felt the final went well, I just hope that in the class overall I got an A. I should I think but I didn't participate much in class. On Monday I have my grammar final and Wednesday is POE but they should be a lot easier. I'll study this weekend but not lose sleep over it.
On Wednesday I went to my last bible study and we only stayed through the celebration part. Kelsey got the Bone scholarship which is a huge deal so we surprised her with a cake and card. Last night I went out and although I'd mostly gone out to be able to go to Camborio one last time, it ended up that Camborio was closed for a private party. However I still had fun - we went to the Irish bar and a lot of ISU people were there for open bar. I wasn't drinking but still had a good time just hanging around, talking, and watching other people get drunk. Eventually most of us went to the Cuban bar to dance but the music kind of sucked so Megan, Liz, Dulce, and I headed home. We got back around 3 which is early but I was fine with that because I was super tired all day. I slept really well last night while I was sleeping but that was only about 5 or 6 hours.
This morning I went to the school to get my refund from the trip to Alpujarras I didn't go to, studied a little then walked around shopping without buying anything. We're going to buy our bus tickets for Madrid today and Nicole and I will get ours for Malaga. The ash cloud situation is getting better so we're hoping there won't be any problems with our flights. So we'll leave Wednesday night and be in Ireland until Saturday afternoon then fly to Scotland and come back Monday evening. We'll be in Granada a few days then off to Madrid and then HOME. Exactly 2 weeks from today I'll be on a plane back to the states.
Alright well hopefully these next 2 weeks will be filled with adventures of all kinds and keep on hoping that all flights go according to plan! :)
On Wednesday I went to my last bible study and we only stayed through the celebration part. Kelsey got the Bone scholarship which is a huge deal so we surprised her with a cake and card. Last night I went out and although I'd mostly gone out to be able to go to Camborio one last time, it ended up that Camborio was closed for a private party. However I still had fun - we went to the Irish bar and a lot of ISU people were there for open bar. I wasn't drinking but still had a good time just hanging around, talking, and watching other people get drunk. Eventually most of us went to the Cuban bar to dance but the music kind of sucked so Megan, Liz, Dulce, and I headed home. We got back around 3 which is early but I was fine with that because I was super tired all day. I slept really well last night while I was sleeping but that was only about 5 or 6 hours.
This morning I went to the school to get my refund from the trip to Alpujarras I didn't go to, studied a little then walked around shopping without buying anything. We're going to buy our bus tickets for Madrid today and Nicole and I will get ours for Malaga. The ash cloud situation is getting better so we're hoping there won't be any problems with our flights. So we'll leave Wednesday night and be in Ireland until Saturday afternoon then fly to Scotland and come back Monday evening. We'll be in Granada a few days then off to Madrid and then HOME. Exactly 2 weeks from today I'll be on a plane back to the states.
Alright well hopefully these next 2 weeks will be filled with adventures of all kinds and keep on hoping that all flights go according to plan! :)
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Nerja
Well Nicole and I were supposed to go to Alpujarras yesterday but when we went to confirm with the school that we still wanted to go, I went and everything was fun but when she went they told her it was full and she would just have to fill out a form to get her money back. Therefore, after some thinking I decided that I wouldn't go either and she, Kathleen, and I went to Nerja instead which is a beach a couple hours away.
When we got there, we ran into some people from the CLM and waited with them for the bus that would take us to the caves. The caves were huuuge and really cool to have a look at. Afterwards we took the bus back and then headed to the beach! It was absolutely beautiful there and we found ourselves a nice little semi-secluded spot off to the side of the area with a lot of people. We stood in the water a couple times and Nicole and I went in even though it was freezing cold. Then while we were all laying there we had quite the experience..
At one point, Nicole was like "Guys.. where is my bag??" and I was like oh geeze not again (because of Barcelona) but she found it sitting on a rock near us with her 5 euro missing. Luckily she only had 5 euro and the guy didn't talk her camera, bus ticket, or just the whole bag in general. She felt stupid and wondered how she couldn't have noticed someone taking her bag since she was laying there playing sudoku. Well some 10-15 minutes down the road, Kathleen feels something tugging on her bag which she was laying her head on. We thought maybe it had to do with her umbrellas (she had two up protecting her from the sun) or that she was just paranoid because of what happened to Nicole.. we didn't know. A couple minutes later she screams "Fucking bastard!" after another tug at her bag (this time her arms were through it and she was laying her head on it) and we found a long wire hooked to the zipper of the bag. She saw someone but Nicole and I didn't. Nicole went looking around the rocks behind us but didn't find anything. We warned the family near us who also found an even longer wire but they didn't seem as concerned. So we sat there a while talking about how we couldn't believe what just happened. Nicole and Kathleen were so pissed. When we were heading out, we went back around the rocks to see if we could find him. We saw him and when he saw Kathleen, he sprinted up some nearby stairs and then kept poking his head out from the rocks. We ran into a couple going up and told them to be careful. We found out they had 500 euro stolen from them the day before and all of us went up to where we saw the guy but he must have left somehow. By that time, we needed to head back to catch our bus back to Granada.
So yeah.. that was our adventure for the day.
When we got back to Granada, I came home and ate a banana + peanut butter (yum!) and the rest of my last symphony bar. Then I took a shower and by then Liz had gotten home from the beach she went to. At 9:30 we met up with the girls and went to eat Chinese food. Afterwards we went to the 24 hour store where they got drinks/snacks. Nicole and Kathleen went home to watch a movie, Liz and Megan went out, and I came home. I would have gone out too if it was everyone but not just Liz and Megan.
Speaking of.. we all went out Thursday night. We botelloned at their usual spot and had two guys there talking to us but it was just kinda funny because we all made fake names and tried telling them we were from France and didn't know English. We went to the africano bar where Liz made friends with a group of Spanish boys who told us they could get us into capital for free. Kathleen didn't want to go at all because she hates the music there but Nicole had never been and the other girls wanted to go so eventually we headed over. However, Kathleen still didn't want to go and after an incident with some guys and Nicole, she got pissed and started to head back. Nicole and I followed while Megan waited for Liz to finish talking to the nice Spanish guys. Well Kathleen was ticked for everything that had happened and Megan got mad at her then this huge fight (not physical) broke out between Megan and Kathleen. Megan was fed up and headed home but had to come back to get her keys from Kathleen. They stood there yelling at each other for a while. Eventually Megan headed home and Liz was talking it out with Kathleen and trying to calm her down. I was upset with Liz for multiple reasons and got a little emotional so I went a little ways ahead of them and Nicole came to talk to me. She and I stood around talking until Liz and Kathleen noticed we were ready to head home so we all left.
We were really worried that Kathleen and Megan weren't going to be friends because they were both insistent that they didn't want to be around each other for the rest of our time here but I guess they ran into each other later the next day and wondered why they were fighting/mad at each other. Now they're fine and things are back to where they were.
Liz and I aren't doing so great though. Not that anything bad is happening but rather nothing. We talked about it yesterday and agree that we are just kind of fed up with each other over little things that have resulted from us living together for so long - ex: sleeping schedules, going out or not, being on time or not, etc. Then every little thing just drives us crazy. But that won't really be fixed until we're back in the states and living in our separate places. But then we'll be able to be friends without driving each other crazy. We just have to wait it out.
Anyways. Finals start this week and next week. I have art and literature on Thursday, grammar next Monday, and oral/writing on Wedneday. My online math class starts next Monday.
I know the volcano in Iceland has had some new ash come out and cancel some flights in the UK so I'm getting worried about my Ireland/Scotland trip. Even if we can get there what if something happens and we can't get back? We only have a few days after that trip before we leave to go home. I just pray that things work out one way or another.
Alright well that's about it and it's almost lunch time anyways. :)
When we got there, we ran into some people from the CLM and waited with them for the bus that would take us to the caves. The caves were huuuge and really cool to have a look at. Afterwards we took the bus back and then headed to the beach! It was absolutely beautiful there and we found ourselves a nice little semi-secluded spot off to the side of the area with a lot of people. We stood in the water a couple times and Nicole and I went in even though it was freezing cold. Then while we were all laying there we had quite the experience..
At one point, Nicole was like "Guys.. where is my bag??" and I was like oh geeze not again (because of Barcelona) but she found it sitting on a rock near us with her 5 euro missing. Luckily she only had 5 euro and the guy didn't talk her camera, bus ticket, or just the whole bag in general. She felt stupid and wondered how she couldn't have noticed someone taking her bag since she was laying there playing sudoku. Well some 10-15 minutes down the road, Kathleen feels something tugging on her bag which she was laying her head on. We thought maybe it had to do with her umbrellas (she had two up protecting her from the sun) or that she was just paranoid because of what happened to Nicole.. we didn't know. A couple minutes later she screams "Fucking bastard!" after another tug at her bag (this time her arms were through it and she was laying her head on it) and we found a long wire hooked to the zipper of the bag. She saw someone but Nicole and I didn't. Nicole went looking around the rocks behind us but didn't find anything. We warned the family near us who also found an even longer wire but they didn't seem as concerned. So we sat there a while talking about how we couldn't believe what just happened. Nicole and Kathleen were so pissed. When we were heading out, we went back around the rocks to see if we could find him. We saw him and when he saw Kathleen, he sprinted up some nearby stairs and then kept poking his head out from the rocks. We ran into a couple going up and told them to be careful. We found out they had 500 euro stolen from them the day before and all of us went up to where we saw the guy but he must have left somehow. By that time, we needed to head back to catch our bus back to Granada.
So yeah.. that was our adventure for the day.
When we got back to Granada, I came home and ate a banana + peanut butter (yum!) and the rest of my last symphony bar. Then I took a shower and by then Liz had gotten home from the beach she went to. At 9:30 we met up with the girls and went to eat Chinese food. Afterwards we went to the 24 hour store where they got drinks/snacks. Nicole and Kathleen went home to watch a movie, Liz and Megan went out, and I came home. I would have gone out too if it was everyone but not just Liz and Megan.
Speaking of.. we all went out Thursday night. We botelloned at their usual spot and had two guys there talking to us but it was just kinda funny because we all made fake names and tried telling them we were from France and didn't know English. We went to the africano bar where Liz made friends with a group of Spanish boys who told us they could get us into capital for free. Kathleen didn't want to go at all because she hates the music there but Nicole had never been and the other girls wanted to go so eventually we headed over. However, Kathleen still didn't want to go and after an incident with some guys and Nicole, she got pissed and started to head back. Nicole and I followed while Megan waited for Liz to finish talking to the nice Spanish guys. Well Kathleen was ticked for everything that had happened and Megan got mad at her then this huge fight (not physical) broke out between Megan and Kathleen. Megan was fed up and headed home but had to come back to get her keys from Kathleen. They stood there yelling at each other for a while. Eventually Megan headed home and Liz was talking it out with Kathleen and trying to calm her down. I was upset with Liz for multiple reasons and got a little emotional so I went a little ways ahead of them and Nicole came to talk to me. She and I stood around talking until Liz and Kathleen noticed we were ready to head home so we all left.
We were really worried that Kathleen and Megan weren't going to be friends because they were both insistent that they didn't want to be around each other for the rest of our time here but I guess they ran into each other later the next day and wondered why they were fighting/mad at each other. Now they're fine and things are back to where they were.
Liz and I aren't doing so great though. Not that anything bad is happening but rather nothing. We talked about it yesterday and agree that we are just kind of fed up with each other over little things that have resulted from us living together for so long - ex: sleeping schedules, going out or not, being on time or not, etc. Then every little thing just drives us crazy. But that won't really be fixed until we're back in the states and living in our separate places. But then we'll be able to be friends without driving each other crazy. We just have to wait it out.
Anyways. Finals start this week and next week. I have art and literature on Thursday, grammar next Monday, and oral/writing on Wedneday. My online math class starts next Monday.
I know the volcano in Iceland has had some new ash come out and cancel some flights in the UK so I'm getting worried about my Ireland/Scotland trip. Even if we can get there what if something happens and we can't get back? We only have a few days after that trip before we leave to go home. I just pray that things work out one way or another.
Alright well that's about it and it's almost lunch time anyways. :)
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Barcelona!
The first night hanging out in the airport wasn't exactly what I'd call fun but with the girls there spending the night in an airport isn't half bad. I tried sleeping on various occasions but once I would get tired enough, my body would hurt from the hard floor or I'd get cold. So I mostly stayed up and read my spanish HP book. We stayed in 2 locations because once people started coming in the morning, we were going to be in the way of the lines so we moved over by the cafeteria. It would've been nice to get the seats to sleep on but when we'd gotten there, they were mostly taken already.
In the morning we all got up and headed over to catch the bus to Barcelona. Once we got there, we found the metro and figured out how to get to where I hostel was. The hostel was great! There was a guest kitchen (which I used for getting tea, coffee, and making my cereal that I bought. There was a common room with DVDs to watch or just regular TV. There were computers there to use. Yeah.. we loved it.
Anyways so once we dropped our stuff off, we headed to Park Guell to walk around and see all the Gaudi stuff. That was really cool. The stuff is so strange but that's what makes it interesting. Afterwards we hopped back on the metro to Casa Batllo after stopping by McDs for lunch. We just took pictures of the outside then headed to Casa Mila and went inside. Afterwards we headed to Las Ramblas and walked around while waiting for the time when the cathedral would be free. There were a lot of flower and animal shops set up and people dressed up trying to get money. We found a large plaza and ran into some kids from Granada. They came with us to the Cathedral. After looking around and talking a while, we went our separate ways. We stopped by a grocery store where I got my cereal and Liz and Megan got sandwich stuff to make their dinner. We went on a search for Subway for the rest of us because I'd seen someone with a sub. After asking a couple people, we found it and I enjoyed a veggie patty sub and yogurt. When we were done, it was time to head over to catch the fountain show since until May it's from 7-9 at night. It was alright but since it wasn't dark out and there were people standing in front of us, it wasn't as great as the second night. Afterwards we headed back to the hostel since we had to get up early the next day. Well we stayed up for a while watching a movie on the TV and a guy made free sangria. I instead made myself some manzanilla (echinacea) tea and went to bed early. I've gotten the cold that Liz had although it's not as bad thus far.
The next day we headed over to the Sagrada familia which was neat to see but the inside wasn't much because of the construction going on. Then we went to the Colombus statue to see it and take a look at the water. We sat there for a little while before heading to the subway we'd eaten at the day before. Again I had a veggie patty sub but my favorite cookie this time - yum! Here is where we found out that Nicole had lost her wallet though. She went to pay and didn't have it. We're still not sure exactly how/when it happened. So then we headed over to the police station to file a report. That took a couple hours but luckily she didn't have her passport in there or anything. She had about 70 euros though, her keys for Granada, license, and credit cards. She called her mom though to cancel everything and I don't think there were any charges on the cards. Anyways.. then we went to where the fountain is because we were going to see the Olympic park but made a stop at the top of the stairs where we ended up staying for the next few hours, laying/sleeping in the sun to the sound of guitarists playing for money. We then all decided that we were rather find something to eat instead of going to the park so we found some Chinese food. Then we stopped by a store so they could get botellon supplies and I got some apples for the next day. It was raining a little but we still went to see the fountain show - since it was May it was from 9-11 which was a lot better. We stayed for a while then headed back. I took a shower and got ready for bed.. I wasn't feeling that great. My dinner didn't agree that well with me for some reason and just from having a cold.. just wanted to go to sleep. I didn't sleep that well though.
That next morning we headed over to the Picasso museum because since it was the first Sunday of the month, it was free. That was cool. It was great to go to Barcelona now because we just learned about Gaudi and Picasso in our art class so we got to see a lot of those things. Afterwards we found the chocolate museum and enjoyed our chocolate bar that was our entrance ticket. Then we yet again headed back to our lovely Subway. I got a veggie sub (with everything but jalepenos) and peach ice tea. We did a little bit of souvenir shopping and then headed back to get our stuff. We waited around a little bit before getting on the metro to head to the bus station. We were a little rushed and Nicole had to get a new ticket but luckily we all made it onto the bus. Once we got to our gate at the airport, the girls got McDs while I finished up crackers and other apple.
We made it back to Granada and headed home. Mamacita still made us dinner even though it was past nine and asked us all about our trip. :) It was mother's day in Spain so we felt bad that we hadn't gotten her anything but we did give her a hug/besos and said happy mother's day.
Yesterday was a holiday here - dia de la cruz (day of the cross). I had my grammar class but not POE. The school was giving out free beer and having a magic show but I didn't know when so I went to corte ingles to get some things including PEANUT BUTTER. Sometime after lunch I headed out to take pictures of some crosses around Granada and watch some of the kids dancing - lots of girls wear flamenco dresses and many are part of dance groups. Walked around some with Liz and Megan but then headed home. I did a short work out because it was difficult to run without coughing plus I was hungry. Mamacita was out and about with her friend so we were on our own for dinner. Therefore I had a power bar and some nuts.
I need to start studying for finals because those start next week. I'm assuming that time will start to fly by because I'll be staying busy with finals then traveling. Before I know it I'll be on my way home. I'm ready for it. I feel like my time here in Spain has been well-spent and thoroughly enjoyed but it's time for it to come to an end and for me to start the next section of my life - a.k.a. nursing school.
Alright well.. until next time. :)
In the morning we all got up and headed over to catch the bus to Barcelona. Once we got there, we found the metro and figured out how to get to where I hostel was. The hostel was great! There was a guest kitchen (which I used for getting tea, coffee, and making my cereal that I bought. There was a common room with DVDs to watch or just regular TV. There were computers there to use. Yeah.. we loved it.
Anyways so once we dropped our stuff off, we headed to Park Guell to walk around and see all the Gaudi stuff. That was really cool. The stuff is so strange but that's what makes it interesting. Afterwards we hopped back on the metro to Casa Batllo after stopping by McDs for lunch. We just took pictures of the outside then headed to Casa Mila and went inside. Afterwards we headed to Las Ramblas and walked around while waiting for the time when the cathedral would be free. There were a lot of flower and animal shops set up and people dressed up trying to get money. We found a large plaza and ran into some kids from Granada. They came with us to the Cathedral. After looking around and talking a while, we went our separate ways. We stopped by a grocery store where I got my cereal and Liz and Megan got sandwich stuff to make their dinner. We went on a search for Subway for the rest of us because I'd seen someone with a sub. After asking a couple people, we found it and I enjoyed a veggie patty sub and yogurt. When we were done, it was time to head over to catch the fountain show since until May it's from 7-9 at night. It was alright but since it wasn't dark out and there were people standing in front of us, it wasn't as great as the second night. Afterwards we headed back to the hostel since we had to get up early the next day. Well we stayed up for a while watching a movie on the TV and a guy made free sangria. I instead made myself some manzanilla (echinacea) tea and went to bed early. I've gotten the cold that Liz had although it's not as bad thus far.
The next day we headed over to the Sagrada familia which was neat to see but the inside wasn't much because of the construction going on. Then we went to the Colombus statue to see it and take a look at the water. We sat there for a little while before heading to the subway we'd eaten at the day before. Again I had a veggie patty sub but my favorite cookie this time - yum! Here is where we found out that Nicole had lost her wallet though. She went to pay and didn't have it. We're still not sure exactly how/when it happened. So then we headed over to the police station to file a report. That took a couple hours but luckily she didn't have her passport in there or anything. She had about 70 euros though, her keys for Granada, license, and credit cards. She called her mom though to cancel everything and I don't think there were any charges on the cards. Anyways.. then we went to where the fountain is because we were going to see the Olympic park but made a stop at the top of the stairs where we ended up staying for the next few hours, laying/sleeping in the sun to the sound of guitarists playing for money. We then all decided that we were rather find something to eat instead of going to the park so we found some Chinese food. Then we stopped by a store so they could get botellon supplies and I got some apples for the next day. It was raining a little but we still went to see the fountain show - since it was May it was from 9-11 which was a lot better. We stayed for a while then headed back. I took a shower and got ready for bed.. I wasn't feeling that great. My dinner didn't agree that well with me for some reason and just from having a cold.. just wanted to go to sleep. I didn't sleep that well though.
That next morning we headed over to the Picasso museum because since it was the first Sunday of the month, it was free. That was cool. It was great to go to Barcelona now because we just learned about Gaudi and Picasso in our art class so we got to see a lot of those things. Afterwards we found the chocolate museum and enjoyed our chocolate bar that was our entrance ticket. Then we yet again headed back to our lovely Subway. I got a veggie sub (with everything but jalepenos) and peach ice tea. We did a little bit of souvenir shopping and then headed back to get our stuff. We waited around a little bit before getting on the metro to head to the bus station. We were a little rushed and Nicole had to get a new ticket but luckily we all made it onto the bus. Once we got to our gate at the airport, the girls got McDs while I finished up crackers and other apple.
We made it back to Granada and headed home. Mamacita still made us dinner even though it was past nine and asked us all about our trip. :) It was mother's day in Spain so we felt bad that we hadn't gotten her anything but we did give her a hug/besos and said happy mother's day.
Yesterday was a holiday here - dia de la cruz (day of the cross). I had my grammar class but not POE. The school was giving out free beer and having a magic show but I didn't know when so I went to corte ingles to get some things including PEANUT BUTTER. Sometime after lunch I headed out to take pictures of some crosses around Granada and watch some of the kids dancing - lots of girls wear flamenco dresses and many are part of dance groups. Walked around some with Liz and Megan but then headed home. I did a short work out because it was difficult to run without coughing plus I was hungry. Mamacita was out and about with her friend so we were on our own for dinner. Therefore I had a power bar and some nuts.
I need to start studying for finals because those start next week. I'm assuming that time will start to fly by because I'll be staying busy with finals then traveling. Before I know it I'll be on my way home. I'm ready for it. I feel like my time here in Spain has been well-spent and thoroughly enjoyed but it's time for it to come to an end and for me to start the next section of my life - a.k.a. nursing school.
Alright well.. until next time. :)
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Heading to Barcelona
So in a few hours, our usual group of girls will be on our way to Barcelona! Everyone who has been continues to tell us how it has been their favorite place so I'm really excited and hope the weather stays nice. After this trip, next weekend Nicole and I might still go to Alpujarras (we found out on Monday that the trip had been moved to the 8th- phew!) or we'll get our money back and just check out some beaches around Spain. Or both! We'll see. That's the weekend before 2 of my hardest finals. Then the next weekend we don't have any plans but there are still finals going on so it'll be studying time. Then Ireland and Scotland, a day or two later head to Madrid, and then HOME!! I've always said it's going to be bittersweet but right now the idea of going home is mostly just sweet. The bitter part will come later when I miss Spain and am back in the real world.
I cannot wait to have my own room again! The last few nights I've only been taking the sleeping pill I get here in Spain because I'm running low on the HTP and want to keep them for when I really need sleep. For some reason, I've been really sensitive to light and sound so after attempting to sleep for a few hours with Liz staying up on her computer, I get up too until she's ready to go to bed. I've been getting reeeaallly frustrated even though it's not like she's doing anything wrong. It's not her fault I have a sleeping problem. I'm just saying.. can't wait to have my own space again.
Of course there are the obvious and most important things to look forward to - seeing family and friends! I'm looking forward to being held by my mom again, hugging my grandparents, and seeing all my friends.
Almost right when I get back though, I've got to kick into real world gear. Even before actually. My online stats class starts May 17th and I found out I'll miss the first class meeting and our first exam is May 28th - the day I come back. But I emailed my teacher already and it's alright. He obviously understands I'll miss the first meeting and says I can come in sometime later to take the exam. Then Wed. Jun 2nd I go in to meet with my nursing advisor and get all that stuff going. June 14th my other summer class starts. Not to mention, as soon as I get home I'll be looking for a job again and working when I get one. Although it might seem like overload at first after such a relaxing lifestyle here, I don't think I'll mind it once I get back into the swing of things. I feel like I work better as a person when I'm busy and accomplishing things.
Anyways. I'm going to get whatever homework I have for the weekend done now, make sure I'm all ready for Barcelona, and maybe shower. I'll give an update about Barcelona sometime when we get back - should be a lot of fun! :)
I cannot wait to have my own room again! The last few nights I've only been taking the sleeping pill I get here in Spain because I'm running low on the HTP and want to keep them for when I really need sleep. For some reason, I've been really sensitive to light and sound so after attempting to sleep for a few hours with Liz staying up on her computer, I get up too until she's ready to go to bed. I've been getting reeeaallly frustrated even though it's not like she's doing anything wrong. It's not her fault I have a sleeping problem. I'm just saying.. can't wait to have my own space again.
Of course there are the obvious and most important things to look forward to - seeing family and friends! I'm looking forward to being held by my mom again, hugging my grandparents, and seeing all my friends.
Almost right when I get back though, I've got to kick into real world gear. Even before actually. My online stats class starts May 17th and I found out I'll miss the first class meeting and our first exam is May 28th - the day I come back. But I emailed my teacher already and it's alright. He obviously understands I'll miss the first meeting and says I can come in sometime later to take the exam. Then Wed. Jun 2nd I go in to meet with my nursing advisor and get all that stuff going. June 14th my other summer class starts. Not to mention, as soon as I get home I'll be looking for a job again and working when I get one. Although it might seem like overload at first after such a relaxing lifestyle here, I don't think I'll mind it once I get back into the swing of things. I feel like I work better as a person when I'm busy and accomplishing things.
Anyways. I'm going to get whatever homework I have for the weekend done now, make sure I'm all ready for Barcelona, and maybe shower. I'll give an update about Barcelona sometime when we get back - should be a lot of fun! :)
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Little European Travelers - PARIS
Our last destination! We took the metro from the train station to by where our hostel was but went down the wrong side of the street. After pulling the map out and some help from random strangers, we found it and checked in. It was definitely better than my previous Paris hostel but there wasn't anything too special about it. Anyways we figure things out and then headed to the Eiffel Tower to see it at night. When we got there it was sparkling so we walked around taking pictures for an hour so we could get pictures of it sparkling. Then we headed back and got some sleep.
The next day we headed out and grabbed some breakfast (in the form of pastries which my stomach later didn't agree with) on our way to Notre Dame. We got there and walked around the outside and inside taking pictures. Then we grabbed some sandwiches before heading to the impressionist museum "d'Orsay". I had underestimated how far things actually were by walking so it was only the middle of the day and we were getting worn out. Anyways we went into the museum and saw all kinds of art. Although I might not have seemed to interested as we were going along, I did actually enjoy it. Although we still don't know for sure whether we were allowed to take pictures or not, at the end we decided to take a few anyways.
After that we crossed the street to get to the Louvre and took pictures of the outside. Although we were exhausted and wanted a break, I made the decision to go see the Eiffel Tower by day at this point so we took the metro over there. Then took our much needed break and went to the hostel to relax and change shoes. Then we went to eat dinner at a Mexican place near the metro. We lucked out because they had a vegetarian section. I got some tacos and Rosemary got enchiladas I think - delicious! Since we didn't actually go into the Louvre, we headed there and went inside. We went to see the main things and then just wandered around until they closed. We went back outside to take some night pictures of the place before heading over to the Arc de Triomphe. We got there just in time to be able to go up it to the top. It's where all the main streets of Paris lead to so we got some cool shots of that. Then, finally, our last stop for the day - Moulin Rouge. We got our pictures and then called it a night.
The next morning, I got us some fruit and we stopped by Starbucks for breakfast. Then we were on our way to Versailles! There were a lot of people there but while we were waiting in the long line, a couple came up to us, asked us if it was just the two of us and gave us two tickets for free. We thanked them and, very surprised, headed over to go inside. We don't know why they had two extra tickets but were very grateful - plus they included the audio guide. So we went through and while I was listening to the commentary, Rosemary was taking pictures. We went out to the gardens and took some pictures but didn't go in for time's sake. Instead we headed back to the station. We got some sandwiches on the way and ate them on the train. We picked up our luggage from the hostel and headed to Montmartre. It was difficult to make our way through the people with our stuff and instead of hauling it up the bunch of stairs, I waited with the luggage while Rosemary went to enjoy the view it offered. I didn't mind, I'd already been there twice before plus I munched on my m&ms. We eventually figure out how to get on the RER train to the airport and were on our way. We went to terminal 1 first to find out where Rosemary was supposed to be and then went to terminal 2 and walked a ways to get to where she needed to be. I quickly loaded pictures onto my computer and gave the extra memory cards to her and she checked in. Then we said our goodbyes and I headed over to my gate. I didn't have much time and security was a pain but oh well. I got in line, waited, and then was off to Madrid where I would spend the next 8 hours waiting for my flight back to Granada. I hung around the cafeteria area and tried sleeping on and off. Before going to wait for Ryanair, I got myself some coffee, juice, and a pastry (it was a breakfast deal thing) but had to deal with some really rude people. I wasn't ready for Spanish rudeness so early in the morning. And one was a police officer! Such a jerk.
Anyways. I got back to Granada, headed home, and went straight to my bed. Ahhh finally.
And there you have it!
I had a great time with my sister and I really hope she enjoyed it too. :) We are so blessed by God, our mother, our family, and friends.
Today was a little chaotic because Nicole and I were supposed to go to Alpujarras but we couldn't find the bus or anyone who knew anything about it even though we were where we were supposed to be. So we're hoping they just didn't have enough people to go so they didn't and we can get our money back. Then we decided we'd just get our stuff and meet the rest of the girls at the beach but we got out to the bus station to find out the next one didn't leave until 1 and only came back at 5:30 or 8. The other places we would have gone to were too far. We could have gone but it would have been a waste of money to go for just a few hours. Therefore, we went and found a place to sit and eat our bocadillos. Then we found a park that her and Kathleen had found the day before and laid out to soak up some sun. After a couple hours we headed back but stopped by Los Italianos on the way to get some gelato - I got some lemon flavored. I thought they would have been eating lunch here so I walked around the park taking pictures. I saw Jota ("Jay") and his girlfriend but my mind was not wanting to think in Spanish. When I finally came home, I found it empty and went to change clothes and relax. I snacked a little then tried to take a small siesta. Then at 5 I went for a run until 6 when the step group from the church would be performing. I came back to change and get my camera then watched their dance. I came back home, took a shower, and explained what happened when mamacita and Liz got home. We ate our dinner which was a soup of pasta shells, a spanish tortilla (ew), and a cabbage with garlic pieces salad (plain but alright). Later on tonight at 11:45 we're going to see Alice in Wonderland with Megan. FINALLY a going out event that I'm actually looking forward to.
Anyways.. hasta luego.
The next day we headed out and grabbed some breakfast (in the form of pastries which my stomach later didn't agree with) on our way to Notre Dame. We got there and walked around the outside and inside taking pictures. Then we grabbed some sandwiches before heading to the impressionist museum "d'Orsay". I had underestimated how far things actually were by walking so it was only the middle of the day and we were getting worn out. Anyways we went into the museum and saw all kinds of art. Although I might not have seemed to interested as we were going along, I did actually enjoy it. Although we still don't know for sure whether we were allowed to take pictures or not, at the end we decided to take a few anyways.
After that we crossed the street to get to the Louvre and took pictures of the outside. Although we were exhausted and wanted a break, I made the decision to go see the Eiffel Tower by day at this point so we took the metro over there. Then took our much needed break and went to the hostel to relax and change shoes. Then we went to eat dinner at a Mexican place near the metro. We lucked out because they had a vegetarian section. I got some tacos and Rosemary got enchiladas I think - delicious! Since we didn't actually go into the Louvre, we headed there and went inside. We went to see the main things and then just wandered around until they closed. We went back outside to take some night pictures of the place before heading over to the Arc de Triomphe. We got there just in time to be able to go up it to the top. It's where all the main streets of Paris lead to so we got some cool shots of that. Then, finally, our last stop for the day - Moulin Rouge. We got our pictures and then called it a night.
The next morning, I got us some fruit and we stopped by Starbucks for breakfast. Then we were on our way to Versailles! There were a lot of people there but while we were waiting in the long line, a couple came up to us, asked us if it was just the two of us and gave us two tickets for free. We thanked them and, very surprised, headed over to go inside. We don't know why they had two extra tickets but were very grateful - plus they included the audio guide. So we went through and while I was listening to the commentary, Rosemary was taking pictures. We went out to the gardens and took some pictures but didn't go in for time's sake. Instead we headed back to the station. We got some sandwiches on the way and ate them on the train. We picked up our luggage from the hostel and headed to Montmartre. It was difficult to make our way through the people with our stuff and instead of hauling it up the bunch of stairs, I waited with the luggage while Rosemary went to enjoy the view it offered. I didn't mind, I'd already been there twice before plus I munched on my m&ms. We eventually figure out how to get on the RER train to the airport and were on our way. We went to terminal 1 first to find out where Rosemary was supposed to be and then went to terminal 2 and walked a ways to get to where she needed to be. I quickly loaded pictures onto my computer and gave the extra memory cards to her and she checked in. Then we said our goodbyes and I headed over to my gate. I didn't have much time and security was a pain but oh well. I got in line, waited, and then was off to Madrid where I would spend the next 8 hours waiting for my flight back to Granada. I hung around the cafeteria area and tried sleeping on and off. Before going to wait for Ryanair, I got myself some coffee, juice, and a pastry (it was a breakfast deal thing) but had to deal with some really rude people. I wasn't ready for Spanish rudeness so early in the morning. And one was a police officer! Such a jerk.
Anyways. I got back to Granada, headed home, and went straight to my bed. Ahhh finally.
And there you have it!
I had a great time with my sister and I really hope she enjoyed it too. :) We are so blessed by God, our mother, our family, and friends.
Today was a little chaotic because Nicole and I were supposed to go to Alpujarras but we couldn't find the bus or anyone who knew anything about it even though we were where we were supposed to be. So we're hoping they just didn't have enough people to go so they didn't and we can get our money back. Then we decided we'd just get our stuff and meet the rest of the girls at the beach but we got out to the bus station to find out the next one didn't leave until 1 and only came back at 5:30 or 8. The other places we would have gone to were too far. We could have gone but it would have been a waste of money to go for just a few hours. Therefore, we went and found a place to sit and eat our bocadillos. Then we found a park that her and Kathleen had found the day before and laid out to soak up some sun. After a couple hours we headed back but stopped by Los Italianos on the way to get some gelato - I got some lemon flavored. I thought they would have been eating lunch here so I walked around the park taking pictures. I saw Jota ("Jay") and his girlfriend but my mind was not wanting to think in Spanish. When I finally came home, I found it empty and went to change clothes and relax. I snacked a little then tried to take a small siesta. Then at 5 I went for a run until 6 when the step group from the church would be performing. I came back to change and get my camera then watched their dance. I came back home, took a shower, and explained what happened when mamacita and Liz got home. We ate our dinner which was a soup of pasta shells, a spanish tortilla (ew), and a cabbage with garlic pieces salad (plain but alright). Later on tonight at 11:45 we're going to see Alice in Wonderland with Megan. FINALLY a going out event that I'm actually looking forward to.
Anyways.. hasta luego.
Friday, April 23, 2010
LIttle European Travelers - SWITZERLAND
It felt great to be back in Switzerland. It is definitely still one of my favorite places in Europe.
So when we got there we headed to our hostel and checked in. It was alright - nothing bad to say about it or anything and the breakfast was good.
Since we got in kind of late, we decided we should find some dinner and see the bridge at night before going to bed. We checked out a few places to eat and settled on the first one, which was the vegetarian place we found when looking online. It was a little expensive but we decided we deserved to treat ourselves to a nice meal, plus we were sure that even with the language barrier, we could order something we'd be able to eat. Luckily they had an english menu anyways. I got some seitan with veggies and potatoes and Rosemary got a mock chicken type thing. Both were really good and the bread we had before had a different but really good spread for it.
We went to the bridge afterwards but pictures weren't turning out of it. We headed back and called it a night. The next day after breakfast, we headed out and with the help of a tour guide booklet found our way to the important places. We went to the lion, walked along some of the wall, went to both bridges and needle thing in the water, a church, and the main parts of the pedestrian part that has decorated buildings. We found a nice doll for my grandma, I finally got my mom a swiss army knife (engraved with "Barb Coleman - with love"), we got some chocolate for people back home, and a few other things. We had a fun time trying to figure out how to send off our gifts at the post office but finally got it figured out. We went to the train station and got some veggie burgers at BK (which were way better than back in the states and bigger too), got our luggage that we'd stored in the lockers that morning, bought some more chocolate, and got on the train to Paris.
I have 5 weeks from today until I go home. I get back before the HS graduation so I'm definitely going to that on Sunday - yay! I had a long dream the other day about coming home and seeing my mom and everyone. Also, although it's fine now, last night I was just so ready to be home. I went out with Megan and Liz but didn't drink and they were asking so many questions about why I don't like to drink and why I don't go out with them all the time. They were drunk and so their questions were more like interrogation and Liz kept on asking why for everything in a way that made me feel like some strange, weird person. Mamacita thinks I'm weird too and told me I need to go out with them more. I tried to explain it to her but she cut me off and kept going. I was like.. whatever.
Nicole and i booked our flights to Ireland and Scotland last night! I'm SO excited! We'll leave Malaga for Dublin late on May 19th until the 22nd. Then we'll be in Scotland until Monday evening. She is trying to get ahold of her family in Scotland and we're hoping they'll offer us a place to stay and show us around. She's sure they would at least do something so we'll see. She and I are also going to Alpujarras tomorrow through the school. Then next weekend is Barcelona with all the girls which should be a good time and everyone says Barcelona is one of their favorite places in Spain besides Granada.
Alright well that's about it for now. :)
So when we got there we headed to our hostel and checked in. It was alright - nothing bad to say about it or anything and the breakfast was good.
Since we got in kind of late, we decided we should find some dinner and see the bridge at night before going to bed. We checked out a few places to eat and settled on the first one, which was the vegetarian place we found when looking online. It was a little expensive but we decided we deserved to treat ourselves to a nice meal, plus we were sure that even with the language barrier, we could order something we'd be able to eat. Luckily they had an english menu anyways. I got some seitan with veggies and potatoes and Rosemary got a mock chicken type thing. Both were really good and the bread we had before had a different but really good spread for it.
We went to the bridge afterwards but pictures weren't turning out of it. We headed back and called it a night. The next day after breakfast, we headed out and with the help of a tour guide booklet found our way to the important places. We went to the lion, walked along some of the wall, went to both bridges and needle thing in the water, a church, and the main parts of the pedestrian part that has decorated buildings. We found a nice doll for my grandma, I finally got my mom a swiss army knife (engraved with "Barb Coleman - with love"), we got some chocolate for people back home, and a few other things. We had a fun time trying to figure out how to send off our gifts at the post office but finally got it figured out. We went to the train station and got some veggie burgers at BK (which were way better than back in the states and bigger too), got our luggage that we'd stored in the lockers that morning, bought some more chocolate, and got on the train to Paris.
I have 5 weeks from today until I go home. I get back before the HS graduation so I'm definitely going to that on Sunday - yay! I had a long dream the other day about coming home and seeing my mom and everyone. Also, although it's fine now, last night I was just so ready to be home. I went out with Megan and Liz but didn't drink and they were asking so many questions about why I don't like to drink and why I don't go out with them all the time. They were drunk and so their questions were more like interrogation and Liz kept on asking why for everything in a way that made me feel like some strange, weird person. Mamacita thinks I'm weird too and told me I need to go out with them more. I tried to explain it to her but she cut me off and kept going. I was like.. whatever.
Nicole and i booked our flights to Ireland and Scotland last night! I'm SO excited! We'll leave Malaga for Dublin late on May 19th until the 22nd. Then we'll be in Scotland until Monday evening. She is trying to get ahold of her family in Scotland and we're hoping they'll offer us a place to stay and show us around. She's sure they would at least do something so we'll see. She and I are also going to Alpujarras tomorrow through the school. Then next weekend is Barcelona with all the girls which should be a good time and everyone says Barcelona is one of their favorite places in Spain besides Granada.
Alright well that's about it for now. :)
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Little European Travelers - GRANADA
Ahh finally back to Spain where I can more or less communicate and know my way around. Well first we stayed a night in Girona where we stuffed ourselves full at the dinner buffet to attempt to get our moneys worth. Then we had to get up super early to catch our flight at 6:30.
We get to Granada and of course.. I miss our stop on the bus and we get stranded out in the middle of nowhere for a few minutes before the bus we were on came back and we got to where we needed to be. We dropped off her stuff at the Oasis hostel and had some breakfast there. Then we made our way to the house to visit mamacita. That went really well I thought! Mamacita kept on saying how guapa she was (good-looking) and she made us coffee with little pastry treats! Mamacita was also all upset because she wanted to invite her over for lunch and make something like paella but since she doesn't eat any fish or meat, that really limits her choices. I showed Rosemary my room and then we went to church. I was having a hard time staying focused because I was tired and I'm sure Rosemary wasn't exactly having a blast but I was glad we went. Afterwards we got our bocadillos from mamacita (yeah she made one for Rosemary too) we walked around the park where I run and took pictures. Then we headed up to the Alhambra but found out that tickets were sold out because of Easter. So we sat in the area the artists are usually at and enjoyed our lunch. Then we walked around the free parts before heading back down. We went back to her hostel to officially check her in and made sure the bed was suitable for anyone who wanted to lay down. We looked up places to eat and then went to find them. The first one was closed until 8 so we got some piononos and sat for a little bit. We went to see if the other vegetarian place we looked up was open but it wasn't so we went back to the Mexican place and enjoyed some vegetarian burgers, which were actually just vegetables fried into a burger, but still pretty tasty. Afterwards, I walked her back then headed home.
The next day I had class until lunch time, ate, then headed over to meet her. We went to see the albyzin/albaicin area then to the cathedral and capilla real. I was very excited to go to the vegetarian restaurant that has tofu, seitan, couscous, etc that's by the school but when we got there, it was open but the kitchen was closed. Bummer! So I showed her the school and we looked some things up on the internet. Then we left to find some dinner. Since we were meeting up with my friends at cafe futbol later, we went for the pizza place nearby and enjoyed some delicious pizza - we got two of the best ones and shared. At 8:15 we met up with my friends and sat outside at Cafe Futbol to enjoy some chocolate con churros, a milkshake, and some free ice cream thanks to Mauricio. Liz showed up late but got a milkshake then walked with us to the hostel. Then Liz and I stopped by the 24 hour store for her to get food before heading home.
Tuesday morning I went to the hostel after my class and ate some breakfast before finding Rosemary in her room getting ready. I just hung around while she packed. Then around 11, I headed back to the school and she went on the free walking tour. I came back after my class to meet her for coming to the house. Mamacita had invited her over for some pasta and salad even though she was still upset about not being able to make something more Spanish. I was surprised though because it's a big deal in Spain to invite people over to your house. Mamacita was very welcoming though and I'm glad things went so well. Anyways- Rosemary wasn't there when Liz and I went to the hostel but eventually we found each other. The walking tour had taken longer than we thought it would. But it wasn't a problem and we were still at the house early. We had our pasta and afterwards strawberries with whipped cream! I realized how far I had come in my Spanish understanding/speaking with Rosemary here just by comparing how I was before I left to what I was able to do when she was here. After lunch I finished up packing and then mamacita gave us bocadillos for our bus ride too! I didn't even ask her to. :) Then we were on our way and took our 5 hour bus ride to Madrid. It wasn't too bad and we stopped along the way for a bathroom break. Once we got to Madrid, we figured out what metro lines to take to get to the airport, called the hostel, and got on the shuttle to our place. It was super nice and we got a good night's sleep with great breakfast in the morning before our flight to Switzerland.
So we had quite the situation over here in Europe with the volcano in Iceland that erupted and the smoke caused most of the European airports to close, stranding a lot of people in airports/preventing trips. Luckily, things have started to clear up and airports are opening up again. Now it's just waiting to see if it keeps going or causes another one to erupt, which could cause a lot of problems. I pray that nothing happens until we're all back in the U.S. safe and sound. Although it might be an adventure, I would be rather upset to not be able to go home and be stranded in Europe for who knows how long.
School has been alright. We had a visit with our art class to the cathedral and capilla real today and don't have art class tomorrow, meaning I don't have class until 11:30. Love it! But we had our project that we were supposed to send to him yesterday which mine decided it didn't really want to attach itself in an e-mail no matter what I did. Luckily in Spain that means no pasa nada - I e-mailed him about it and I'm just going to bring it on a flash drive to class on Tuesday.
Megan and I met up with my new intercambio friend yesterday and went to a tea place. He's really nice and although we all kept on speaking in English, he tried to push us to speak more in Spanish which is what I need. I knew Megan had just gotten done with a presentation though and her mind and Spanish weren't friends. But he and I agreed that next time we'd try to do mostly Spanish. I could deal with it being just us two - I just needed backup for the first time.
I've been really short-tempered lately and lacking in patience. I don't know why. I also just have the "I'm over it" attitude. I'm not sure what's up or how much it shows to other people. I'm worried that if I don't figure it out and fix some things I'm going to have little outbursts that I would regret later on.
Anyways. Off to shower, get some things done, and hopefully enjoy a good night's sleep since I went to get some more sleeping pills today. :)
We get to Granada and of course.. I miss our stop on the bus and we get stranded out in the middle of nowhere for a few minutes before the bus we were on came back and we got to where we needed to be. We dropped off her stuff at the Oasis hostel and had some breakfast there. Then we made our way to the house to visit mamacita. That went really well I thought! Mamacita kept on saying how guapa she was (good-looking) and she made us coffee with little pastry treats! Mamacita was also all upset because she wanted to invite her over for lunch and make something like paella but since she doesn't eat any fish or meat, that really limits her choices. I showed Rosemary my room and then we went to church. I was having a hard time staying focused because I was tired and I'm sure Rosemary wasn't exactly having a blast but I was glad we went. Afterwards we got our bocadillos from mamacita (yeah she made one for Rosemary too) we walked around the park where I run and took pictures. Then we headed up to the Alhambra but found out that tickets were sold out because of Easter. So we sat in the area the artists are usually at and enjoyed our lunch. Then we walked around the free parts before heading back down. We went back to her hostel to officially check her in and made sure the bed was suitable for anyone who wanted to lay down. We looked up places to eat and then went to find them. The first one was closed until 8 so we got some piononos and sat for a little bit. We went to see if the other vegetarian place we looked up was open but it wasn't so we went back to the Mexican place and enjoyed some vegetarian burgers, which were actually just vegetables fried into a burger, but still pretty tasty. Afterwards, I walked her back then headed home.
The next day I had class until lunch time, ate, then headed over to meet her. We went to see the albyzin/albaicin area then to the cathedral and capilla real. I was very excited to go to the vegetarian restaurant that has tofu, seitan, couscous, etc that's by the school but when we got there, it was open but the kitchen was closed. Bummer! So I showed her the school and we looked some things up on the internet. Then we left to find some dinner. Since we were meeting up with my friends at cafe futbol later, we went for the pizza place nearby and enjoyed some delicious pizza - we got two of the best ones and shared. At 8:15 we met up with my friends and sat outside at Cafe Futbol to enjoy some chocolate con churros, a milkshake, and some free ice cream thanks to Mauricio. Liz showed up late but got a milkshake then walked with us to the hostel. Then Liz and I stopped by the 24 hour store for her to get food before heading home.
Tuesday morning I went to the hostel after my class and ate some breakfast before finding Rosemary in her room getting ready. I just hung around while she packed. Then around 11, I headed back to the school and she went on the free walking tour. I came back after my class to meet her for coming to the house. Mamacita had invited her over for some pasta and salad even though she was still upset about not being able to make something more Spanish. I was surprised though because it's a big deal in Spain to invite people over to your house. Mamacita was very welcoming though and I'm glad things went so well. Anyways- Rosemary wasn't there when Liz and I went to the hostel but eventually we found each other. The walking tour had taken longer than we thought it would. But it wasn't a problem and we were still at the house early. We had our pasta and afterwards strawberries with whipped cream! I realized how far I had come in my Spanish understanding/speaking with Rosemary here just by comparing how I was before I left to what I was able to do when she was here. After lunch I finished up packing and then mamacita gave us bocadillos for our bus ride too! I didn't even ask her to. :) Then we were on our way and took our 5 hour bus ride to Madrid. It wasn't too bad and we stopped along the way for a bathroom break. Once we got to Madrid, we figured out what metro lines to take to get to the airport, called the hostel, and got on the shuttle to our place. It was super nice and we got a good night's sleep with great breakfast in the morning before our flight to Switzerland.
So we had quite the situation over here in Europe with the volcano in Iceland that erupted and the smoke caused most of the European airports to close, stranding a lot of people in airports/preventing trips. Luckily, things have started to clear up and airports are opening up again. Now it's just waiting to see if it keeps going or causes another one to erupt, which could cause a lot of problems. I pray that nothing happens until we're all back in the U.S. safe and sound. Although it might be an adventure, I would be rather upset to not be able to go home and be stranded in Europe for who knows how long.
School has been alright. We had a visit with our art class to the cathedral and capilla real today and don't have art class tomorrow, meaning I don't have class until 11:30. Love it! But we had our project that we were supposed to send to him yesterday which mine decided it didn't really want to attach itself in an e-mail no matter what I did. Luckily in Spain that means no pasa nada - I e-mailed him about it and I'm just going to bring it on a flash drive to class on Tuesday.
Megan and I met up with my new intercambio friend yesterday and went to a tea place. He's really nice and although we all kept on speaking in English, he tried to push us to speak more in Spanish which is what I need. I knew Megan had just gotten done with a presentation though and her mind and Spanish weren't friends. But he and I agreed that next time we'd try to do mostly Spanish. I could deal with it being just us two - I just needed backup for the first time.
I've been really short-tempered lately and lacking in patience. I don't know why. I also just have the "I'm over it" attitude. I'm not sure what's up or how much it shows to other people. I'm worried that if I don't figure it out and fix some things I'm going to have little outbursts that I would regret later on.
Anyways. Off to shower, get some things done, and hopefully enjoy a good night's sleep since I went to get some more sleeping pills today. :)
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Little European Travelers - ITALY
So we finally get to Florence and go to check into our hostel. It was really close to the train station and easy to find so that was good. The walls were decorated with graffiti (but it's supposed to be there), it was clean, we stayed in a 4-bed dorm, and had our own bathroom. The hostel offered free dinner and breakfast which we enjoyed. After we dropped our stuff off we found out how where our bus tour bus was and hopped on/off then walked around some before going back to eat some pizza for dinner. We thought we'd gotten lucky again to not have any roommates but sometime after we'd gotten into bed, two girls came in and went straight to bed. However, they were really nice - we met them in the morning obviously. I forget where they were from in the US but they're studying abroad too. After Rosemary and I got ready and got all our stuff, we headed down for breakfast and had some muesli cereal (which I now love by the way and always have it when hostels offer it) and yogurt. We stored our luggage and then went back to the hop on/off bus and went to the main places we wanted to see (like the bridge/main area and where the David statue is). We figured out (with some stress) how to get from the train station to the other one we needed to be at and got our luggage before taking the other bus route. We didn't hop off anywhere because we didn't have time but enjoyed riding around. We got off and headed to the train station and made it to the other one and to our train that took us to Rome.
We got into Rome in the evening and found our hostel which was again close to the station and easy to find. We asked the font desk for restaurant suggestions and after checking a few of them out, settled on one. I got some delicious bruschetta and vegetable soup and Rosemary got pizza with mushrooms. Afterwards we called it a night and just got ourselves prepared for the next day by figuring out what tour bus to take and where to go. So in the morning, we ate some breakfast and headed out. First was the colosseum where we joined an english tour to avoid the huge line and get some information as we were going. I'm not sure what Rosemary thought about it all but I hope she enjoyed it as much as I did the first time and felt how much history there is to that place. After the tour we went to the top and took some pictures. Then we headed back to the bus and got off at the next stop. Instead of waiting for the next bus we walked to the next place. We got back on and got off near a plaza. We walked from there to the Spanish steps, Trevi Fountain (stopped for some gelato from Valentino's!), and the Pantheon. Then we went back to the hostel and ate dinner at a place across the street. I got pasta with mushrooms and Rosemary got pizza. Afterwards we were exhausted and I made the mistake of laying down on the bed. Then I didn't really want to get up to go see the Pope at the colosseum but we went anyways by metro. I was really glad we went because it was definitely amazing to be among a huge group of priests, nuns, and other people who were there too. A lot of people had candles and the booklet of the stations of the cross. The Pope talked before and after but in between other people - maybe cardinals - went through the stations. We stayed for all of it and then headed back to get some sleep. We ate breakfast and got coffee at McDs by the train station before taking the metro to Vatican City. It was soooo packed which we should have thought about with it being the day before Easter. We joined an english guided tour which I am sure cut the waiting in line time by a lot but we still didn't have a lot of time before we had to head out to catch our plane. We got into the Vatican Museum and saw some things but then had to go. Other places were closing up early anyways and the lines would have been impossible to get through. We got back to the station and while Rosemary waited in line for our bus to the airport, I went and got her some postcards and food for us (a sandwich for me, pizza for her, and fruit for both of us) to eat on the way. I returned just in time for us to get some of the last seats on the bus (haha oops) and we were on our way. After sitting in line for a little while we were on the plane and on our way to Granada.
I finally did some shopping yesterday! Mamacita was SO happy with me haha. Usually Liz buys a number of things and I'll maybe have one thing. She loved what I bought though and the prices I found. I am happy with it too. Now she just things I'm unusual for not having gone out with Liz the last two nights. The first night I was super tired and feeling the beginnings of getting sick. Last night I was skyping with Harrison. Besides I don't plan on getting drunk so the going out thing isn't that exciting. Especially when I'd be the only one not drunk. I should be able to go out and have fun anyways but.. I just don't feel comfortable/like I fit in.
School is going fine. Our literature presentation is finally done (we thought it went well) and now we just have to do our paper. I have my art project mostly done I just have to fix a couple things then send it to my professor.
I am going to sign up for a trip through the school to go to Alpujarras next Saturday and we might take a day trip to the beach sometime. Then at the end of the month we (the 5 of us) are heading to Barcelona for the weekend. Once Nicole figures out when exactly her finals are, we plan on booking flights to Ireland for the weekend after finals (May 19/20-30) so that's exciting! I have a friend studying in Cork and she said if we go, she'd come meet us somewhere! :) IRELAND YAY! The 5 of us are going to go to Madrid together to "complete the circle" a couple days early so Nicole and Megan can fly out the 27th and Kathleen, Liz, and me on the 28th. Our time seems so short! I'm going to do my best to enjoy every last minute of it but I can't deny that there's a large part of me that's ready to be home.
I skyped with Harrison last night for like an hour and 45 minutes and am skyping with my mom tomorrow. I'm so thankful for skype and being able to see people's faces. :)
Anyways.. Liz is going to Merideth's today and will be gone for lunch and dinner. I plan on working on more homework and hopefully going for a run if it doesn't rain.
Hasta luego!
We got into Rome in the evening and found our hostel which was again close to the station and easy to find. We asked the font desk for restaurant suggestions and after checking a few of them out, settled on one. I got some delicious bruschetta and vegetable soup and Rosemary got pizza with mushrooms. Afterwards we called it a night and just got ourselves prepared for the next day by figuring out what tour bus to take and where to go. So in the morning, we ate some breakfast and headed out. First was the colosseum where we joined an english tour to avoid the huge line and get some information as we were going. I'm not sure what Rosemary thought about it all but I hope she enjoyed it as much as I did the first time and felt how much history there is to that place. After the tour we went to the top and took some pictures. Then we headed back to the bus and got off at the next stop. Instead of waiting for the next bus we walked to the next place. We got back on and got off near a plaza. We walked from there to the Spanish steps, Trevi Fountain (stopped for some gelato from Valentino's!), and the Pantheon. Then we went back to the hostel and ate dinner at a place across the street. I got pasta with mushrooms and Rosemary got pizza. Afterwards we were exhausted and I made the mistake of laying down on the bed. Then I didn't really want to get up to go see the Pope at the colosseum but we went anyways by metro. I was really glad we went because it was definitely amazing to be among a huge group of priests, nuns, and other people who were there too. A lot of people had candles and the booklet of the stations of the cross. The Pope talked before and after but in between other people - maybe cardinals - went through the stations. We stayed for all of it and then headed back to get some sleep. We ate breakfast and got coffee at McDs by the train station before taking the metro to Vatican City. It was soooo packed which we should have thought about with it being the day before Easter. We joined an english guided tour which I am sure cut the waiting in line time by a lot but we still didn't have a lot of time before we had to head out to catch our plane. We got into the Vatican Museum and saw some things but then had to go. Other places were closing up early anyways and the lines would have been impossible to get through. We got back to the station and while Rosemary waited in line for our bus to the airport, I went and got her some postcards and food for us (a sandwich for me, pizza for her, and fruit for both of us) to eat on the way. I returned just in time for us to get some of the last seats on the bus (haha oops) and we were on our way. After sitting in line for a little while we were on the plane and on our way to Granada.
I finally did some shopping yesterday! Mamacita was SO happy with me haha. Usually Liz buys a number of things and I'll maybe have one thing. She loved what I bought though and the prices I found. I am happy with it too. Now she just things I'm unusual for not having gone out with Liz the last two nights. The first night I was super tired and feeling the beginnings of getting sick. Last night I was skyping with Harrison. Besides I don't plan on getting drunk so the going out thing isn't that exciting. Especially when I'd be the only one not drunk. I should be able to go out and have fun anyways but.. I just don't feel comfortable/like I fit in.
School is going fine. Our literature presentation is finally done (we thought it went well) and now we just have to do our paper. I have my art project mostly done I just have to fix a couple things then send it to my professor.
I am going to sign up for a trip through the school to go to Alpujarras next Saturday and we might take a day trip to the beach sometime. Then at the end of the month we (the 5 of us) are heading to Barcelona for the weekend. Once Nicole figures out when exactly her finals are, we plan on booking flights to Ireland for the weekend after finals (May 19/20-30) so that's exciting! I have a friend studying in Cork and she said if we go, she'd come meet us somewhere! :) IRELAND YAY! The 5 of us are going to go to Madrid together to "complete the circle" a couple days early so Nicole and Megan can fly out the 27th and Kathleen, Liz, and me on the 28th. Our time seems so short! I'm going to do my best to enjoy every last minute of it but I can't deny that there's a large part of me that's ready to be home.
I skyped with Harrison last night for like an hour and 45 minutes and am skyping with my mom tomorrow. I'm so thankful for skype and being able to see people's faces. :)
Anyways.. Liz is going to Merideth's today and will be gone for lunch and dinner. I plan on working on more homework and hopefully going for a run if it doesn't rain.
Hasta luego!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Little European Travelers - CROATIA
So we finally get to Dubrovnik and while trying to find our hostel, one of the guys who runs it found us and showed us to our place. We were supposed to just be in a two-bed room I think but he upgraded us to an apartment for the same price. We put our stuff inside and then he showed us around a little bit even though it was late at night. He was super friendly and flexible with our plans. And the apartment was great. :)
The old square was beautiful at night but the city was even more so during the day. We spend the next day walking around, getting some food (juice/pastry and later pizza), took a rocky but enjoyable boat ride, and walked the wall that surrounds the square. It was absolutely gorgeous and the weather was nice and warm. Even though we had to rush at times I felt very relaxed just looking out at the water and mountains. Plus the old part of town is made of white marble. We tried to make the 3:30 bus that would take us to Split but we missed the bus stop the first time around so we got a cheap bus tour of the rest of Dubrovnik. Haha, When we made it to the station, we spotted a small grocery store across the way and bought some snacks - fruit, yogurt, and a drink - and waited until the 6:00 bus.
The ride was enjoyable because the views from our side were beautiful, especially with the sunset. After about 4-5 hours we made it to Split and took a taxi as close as we could then weaved our way through the streets to find our hotel. It was an amaaazing hotel - especially compared to where I've become used to staying. We used the internet for a while and then went to bed. In the morning, we enjoyed a delicious buffet continental breakfast. FINALLY the type of breakfast I'd been waiting for. We eventually left the hotel and went to get our boat tickets before walking around the old part of town. We rubbed the toe of the statue that is supposed to signify that you'll return so we'll see about that. I was trying to guide us using the Europe book but half-way through I forgot about it. The weather wasn't as nice as Dubrovnik and it got a little chilly, windy, and at the end rainy but not until we were getting ready to leave anyways. We ate lunch at a Mexican restaurant (called Black Cat) and had vegetarian taco salads - yummy! Before we headed out, we tried to spend the rest of the Croatian money so we got some pastries, yogurt, fruit, almonds, cherry newtons, cheese and drinks. Then we headed to the ferry station and got some coffee before going through security and getting on the boat. Staying the night on the boat was interesting. We got lost the first time trying to re-locate our room haha but after that we found it just fine. We took our snacks upstairs and got some bread to eat with our cheese. Sleeping in the cabin beds was alright and definitely better than sleeping in a chair or something. We didn't sleep much though because we had to be up early to get some breakfast before we got to Italy. The breakfast was really good - I loved the cereal they had. :) I'm all about the food.
We got off the ferry and tried to find the train station on our own but when we failed, we headed back to where the cabs were. Rosemary had a friendly bird poop on her which just made her day.. so we had our stuff sprawled out on the sidewalk trying to clean that up. So anyways after cleaning up and a slighty expensive taxi ride for such a short distance, we arrived at the station. We got on an earlier train and were on our way. The train was great about announcing the stops at first but when it got close to ours, it stopped working. So after a few stress/panic attacks I went to find someone to ask when our stop was. We got to Florence just fine and here is where this blog ends.
Until next time!
I finally got out to run yesterday! Our group for lit met up at cafe futbol from 5-6:30 then Liz and I went to corte ingles and I picked up my package (a.k.a. GIRL SCOUT COOKIES!) from Kory on the way home. Then I went for a little run around the park until dinner time.
Our group is meeting again today at 5:30 in the park but I'll run once we're done. I can't wait for this presentation to be over and then get my art powerpoint done.
Alright back to homework.
The old square was beautiful at night but the city was even more so during the day. We spend the next day walking around, getting some food (juice/pastry and later pizza), took a rocky but enjoyable boat ride, and walked the wall that surrounds the square. It was absolutely gorgeous and the weather was nice and warm. Even though we had to rush at times I felt very relaxed just looking out at the water and mountains. Plus the old part of town is made of white marble. We tried to make the 3:30 bus that would take us to Split but we missed the bus stop the first time around so we got a cheap bus tour of the rest of Dubrovnik. Haha, When we made it to the station, we spotted a small grocery store across the way and bought some snacks - fruit, yogurt, and a drink - and waited until the 6:00 bus.
The ride was enjoyable because the views from our side were beautiful, especially with the sunset. After about 4-5 hours we made it to Split and took a taxi as close as we could then weaved our way through the streets to find our hotel. It was an amaaazing hotel - especially compared to where I've become used to staying. We used the internet for a while and then went to bed. In the morning, we enjoyed a delicious buffet continental breakfast. FINALLY the type of breakfast I'd been waiting for. We eventually left the hotel and went to get our boat tickets before walking around the old part of town. We rubbed the toe of the statue that is supposed to signify that you'll return so we'll see about that. I was trying to guide us using the Europe book but half-way through I forgot about it. The weather wasn't as nice as Dubrovnik and it got a little chilly, windy, and at the end rainy but not until we were getting ready to leave anyways. We ate lunch at a Mexican restaurant (called Black Cat) and had vegetarian taco salads - yummy! Before we headed out, we tried to spend the rest of the Croatian money so we got some pastries, yogurt, fruit, almonds, cherry newtons, cheese and drinks. Then we headed to the ferry station and got some coffee before going through security and getting on the boat. Staying the night on the boat was interesting. We got lost the first time trying to re-locate our room haha but after that we found it just fine. We took our snacks upstairs and got some bread to eat with our cheese. Sleeping in the cabin beds was alright and definitely better than sleeping in a chair or something. We didn't sleep much though because we had to be up early to get some breakfast before we got to Italy. The breakfast was really good - I loved the cereal they had. :) I'm all about the food.
We got off the ferry and tried to find the train station on our own but when we failed, we headed back to where the cabs were. Rosemary had a friendly bird poop on her which just made her day.. so we had our stuff sprawled out on the sidewalk trying to clean that up. So anyways after cleaning up and a slighty expensive taxi ride for such a short distance, we arrived at the station. We got on an earlier train and were on our way. The train was great about announcing the stops at first but when it got close to ours, it stopped working. So after a few stress/panic attacks I went to find someone to ask when our stop was. We got to Florence just fine and here is where this blog ends.
Until next time!
I finally got out to run yesterday! Our group for lit met up at cafe futbol from 5-6:30 then Liz and I went to corte ingles and I picked up my package (a.k.a. GIRL SCOUT COOKIES!) from Kory on the way home. Then I went for a little run around the park until dinner time.
Our group is meeting again today at 5:30 in the park but I'll run once we're done. I can't wait for this presentation to be over and then get my art powerpoint done.
Alright back to homework.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Little European Travelers - LONDON
Ay que bueno - ya puedo relajar en Granada!
Well the last two weeks have been amazing, busy, stressful, and tiring. But all completely worth it! I'll probably break my posts up into separate sections because I want to write all I can down but that's a lot!
I was on my way to Malaga two weeks ago and got to the airport with plenty of time to spare. So I looked around and eventually sat to eat my bocadillo de mamacita and do some homework I'd brought. While waiting for my gate to show up, I found out 2 girls from the CLM were on the same flight so we stuck with each other until we went our separate ways at Stansted. My phone didn't work in London and by the time I found out there would be a bus going to my hotel about an hour later, I decided to take a taxi. Although it was a little expensive - I was tired, alone, and cold. So I got to my hotel and went straight to bed. I headed out at 8 to catch a train at the airport into the city. When I got to the train station I stopped by McDs for a coffee and a quick bite (although I'd had a power bar too) then went to find out how to get a bus to St. Paul's where Rosemary and I were supposed to meet up. I made it there around 10 and looked around for my sister. It took us a while to finally run into each other because we were on different sides of St. Paul's. I was so relieved to finally find her - all kinds of thoughts and worries had been running through my mind! So we find out that the place we thought we'd booked for the night wasn't officially booked and they were full but everything worked out because we got a room at the place we were staying at the next night. Instead of taking our luggage there, we decided to haul it around with us so we could have more time to see the city. We decided on a hop-on/off bus tour and made our way to most of the places we'd wanted to even though we didn't have much time. Thankfully Rosemary had an extra jacket because I - coming from Spain weather - was not ready for London weather. So we went to our places and took a bunch of pictures, then figured out how to get to our hostel. We lucked out both nights to not have any roommates in our 4-bed dorm. The place was nice, clean, and the staff was really friendly and helpful.
The next day we got up early and made our way over to the meeting spot for a tour my mom had signed us up for. We got some Starbucks on the way for breakfast which we took with us on the bus. The tour was for going to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and the Roman Baths. Windsor Castle was great to get to see. There wasn't a changing of the guards or anything that day but we got to walk around and had a headset as our guide which I like listening to so I understand what it is I'm looking at. After that we went to lunch where we had a delicious salad/veggie pie thing/dessert. Then came Stonehenge with another audio guide. Just being there was enough though and super cool! We walked around taking pictures from every side. It was interesting to learn the history of it though because I'd never really known it's full significance. Finally we made our way to Bath. The audio guide was helpful for me here and pretty interesting. We then headed back and got to the station around 8. Rosemary and I did some souvenir shopping and went back to the hostel. I forget which night it was (I think the first) but we ate at an Italian place by our hostel. I had vegetable lasagna - mm!! The next morning when we tried to get breakfast at the hostel there was a large group of Spanish kids getting breakfast at the same time so we fought our way through. Our flight was delayed a few hours because when we'd gotten on they put the wrong luggage on. Otherwise our flight was fine and I liked the food even though Rosemary didn't. We missed our connecting flight so we had to wait in the airport for the next one. We checked out the park and then enjoyed the food voucher they'd given us. Finally we made it Dubrovnik!
And Croatia will have to wait for another post. Shower time soon! Then my crunches.. my oh my I need to get back on my running/crunches schedule. I feel like I gained so much weight these last two weeks! Haha it's probably mostly in my head although maybe not completely. Either way.. I feel unhealthy and want to be back to where I was. However we're having a group meeting at 5 tomorrow during my usual running time so hopefully I will still have time once we're done.
Alrighty well until next post!
Well the last two weeks have been amazing, busy, stressful, and tiring. But all completely worth it! I'll probably break my posts up into separate sections because I want to write all I can down but that's a lot!
I was on my way to Malaga two weeks ago and got to the airport with plenty of time to spare. So I looked around and eventually sat to eat my bocadillo de mamacita and do some homework I'd brought. While waiting for my gate to show up, I found out 2 girls from the CLM were on the same flight so we stuck with each other until we went our separate ways at Stansted. My phone didn't work in London and by the time I found out there would be a bus going to my hotel about an hour later, I decided to take a taxi. Although it was a little expensive - I was tired, alone, and cold. So I got to my hotel and went straight to bed. I headed out at 8 to catch a train at the airport into the city. When I got to the train station I stopped by McDs for a coffee and a quick bite (although I'd had a power bar too) then went to find out how to get a bus to St. Paul's where Rosemary and I were supposed to meet up. I made it there around 10 and looked around for my sister. It took us a while to finally run into each other because we were on different sides of St. Paul's. I was so relieved to finally find her - all kinds of thoughts and worries had been running through my mind! So we find out that the place we thought we'd booked for the night wasn't officially booked and they were full but everything worked out because we got a room at the place we were staying at the next night. Instead of taking our luggage there, we decided to haul it around with us so we could have more time to see the city. We decided on a hop-on/off bus tour and made our way to most of the places we'd wanted to even though we didn't have much time. Thankfully Rosemary had an extra jacket because I - coming from Spain weather - was not ready for London weather. So we went to our places and took a bunch of pictures, then figured out how to get to our hostel. We lucked out both nights to not have any roommates in our 4-bed dorm. The place was nice, clean, and the staff was really friendly and helpful.
The next day we got up early and made our way over to the meeting spot for a tour my mom had signed us up for. We got some Starbucks on the way for breakfast which we took with us on the bus. The tour was for going to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and the Roman Baths. Windsor Castle was great to get to see. There wasn't a changing of the guards or anything that day but we got to walk around and had a headset as our guide which I like listening to so I understand what it is I'm looking at. After that we went to lunch where we had a delicious salad/veggie pie thing/dessert. Then came Stonehenge with another audio guide. Just being there was enough though and super cool! We walked around taking pictures from every side. It was interesting to learn the history of it though because I'd never really known it's full significance. Finally we made our way to Bath. The audio guide was helpful for me here and pretty interesting. We then headed back and got to the station around 8. Rosemary and I did some souvenir shopping and went back to the hostel. I forget which night it was (I think the first) but we ate at an Italian place by our hostel. I had vegetable lasagna - mm!! The next morning when we tried to get breakfast at the hostel there was a large group of Spanish kids getting breakfast at the same time so we fought our way through. Our flight was delayed a few hours because when we'd gotten on they put the wrong luggage on. Otherwise our flight was fine and I liked the food even though Rosemary didn't. We missed our connecting flight so we had to wait in the airport for the next one. We checked out the park and then enjoyed the food voucher they'd given us. Finally we made it Dubrovnik!
And Croatia will have to wait for another post. Shower time soon! Then my crunches.. my oh my I need to get back on my running/crunches schedule. I feel like I gained so much weight these last two weeks! Haha it's probably mostly in my head although maybe not completely. Either way.. I feel unhealthy and want to be back to where I was. However we're having a group meeting at 5 tomorrow during my usual running time so hopefully I will still have time once we're done.
Alrighty well until next post!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Semana Santa!
FINALLY midterms are done and in just a few hours I´ll be off and on my way to London to meet Rosemary Friday morning! I can´t wait! I´m a tad nervous about just getting there by myself because some things I´m just kinda figuring out when I get there. Oh well I´m sure I´ll get there in the end and after some stress.
Midterms were alright I suppose. Liz and I pulled an all nighter to study for art and literature which we had on Tuesday and knew would be our hardest ones. I think I did alright on both but not perfect. Liz is freaking out about not doing well but I keep on trying to tell her they´re not going to grade like ISU does.
My other midterms I had yesterday were a lot easier and required a lot less studying.
The only thing that´s going to suck about being gone for almost two weeks is that I have a paper due, a group presentation, and a powerpoint for art due within the 2 weeks after break so I´m going to have to work those in somehow.
I got a package from my grandparents yesterday with easter peanut m&ms, the new testament in Spanish and one in English/Spanish side-by-side. That´ll be great for when I go to church!
Yay! Two weeks of not having to have BREAD (baaarely toasted) for breakfast, eating healthy vegetarian food or just whatever I want, and a two week break from just about everything. Love it!
Anyways.. I pray for a safe and happy trip! And the same for everyone else traveling. :)
Midterms were alright I suppose. Liz and I pulled an all nighter to study for art and literature which we had on Tuesday and knew would be our hardest ones. I think I did alright on both but not perfect. Liz is freaking out about not doing well but I keep on trying to tell her they´re not going to grade like ISU does.
My other midterms I had yesterday were a lot easier and required a lot less studying.
The only thing that´s going to suck about being gone for almost two weeks is that I have a paper due, a group presentation, and a powerpoint for art due within the 2 weeks after break so I´m going to have to work those in somehow.
I got a package from my grandparents yesterday with easter peanut m&ms, the new testament in Spanish and one in English/Spanish side-by-side. That´ll be great for when I go to church!
Yay! Two weeks of not having to have BREAD (baaarely toasted) for breakfast, eating healthy vegetarian food or just whatever I want, and a two week break from just about everything. Love it!
Anyways.. I pray for a safe and happy trip! And the same for everyone else traveling. :)
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Malaga
Let's see Thursday night we went out. They all enjoyed open bar of beer and tinto for 5 euro while I just kinda stood around. But most of the French were there so we said our goodbyes. Around 1 we headed up to Camborio but there was like no one there. Kelsey and some girls from the church were there though so that was cool. We danced and hung around for a few hours and they stopped to get schwarmas before we all headed home.
Friday morning we had to be up at the Alhambra by 10:30 for art class although Kathleen, Liz, and I really didn't want to go. We met up and walked there instead of taking the bus. We were there for 3.5 hours and didn't even see everything - thank goodness. My lower back was hurting and I was getting so tired in general. Finally it ended though and we headed home for lunch. Then I studied for a while before meeting up with the girls at 6 to go shopping. Liz and I had to head home for dinner and after we ate I did some more studying.
Yesterday we had to get up at 8 to go to Malaga. We got to make our breakfast again because mamacita went to get her hair done. The bus ride to Malaga wasn't that bad although I was getting frustrated by trying to study or trying to be involved in the conversations. I hate how a lot of the time I feel like I'm having to try really hard to be a part of a conversation or when we're walking together. Anyways when we got there we went to the mall and shopped for a few hours. Then we went to the beach to eat our lunch even though the sun wasn't out. We spent a while finding seashells, climbed a big rock thing, then headed back when it started to rain a little. Some of the girls got some snacks in the mall before we headed to the church for the concert. The concert was alright. There were around 17 acts/groups but we only stayed for 10 of them. Our 2 dance groups went and naturally they were my favorite. Haha. The other groups all sang and the way concerts are, it's hard to hear the words sometimes anyways and then trying to understand the Spanish.. fuunnn. When we left we went to go get food at the mall. We went to a Mexican place and I just got some chips and guacamole which was great though because I've been craving chips and salsa. And to my surprise I now really like guacamole. Haha. Spain has definitely ended most of my picky-eating habits.
We got back and then it was time to head home! We got back to the house at 12:30 and I stayed up until about 1:30 and then was out for the night. A good nights sleep was just what I needed.
This morning we've just stayed in and have been studying. I just got done skyping with my mom for an hour. I get to see my sister in 5 days!! I can't believe how soon it is and I can't wait. :)
Alas.. it is a day of rain today so instead of getting outside for a run I suppose I'll get back to studying now. I just want these midterms to be done already and off to London!
Friday morning we had to be up at the Alhambra by 10:30 for art class although Kathleen, Liz, and I really didn't want to go. We met up and walked there instead of taking the bus. We were there for 3.5 hours and didn't even see everything - thank goodness. My lower back was hurting and I was getting so tired in general. Finally it ended though and we headed home for lunch. Then I studied for a while before meeting up with the girls at 6 to go shopping. Liz and I had to head home for dinner and after we ate I did some more studying.
Yesterday we had to get up at 8 to go to Malaga. We got to make our breakfast again because mamacita went to get her hair done. The bus ride to Malaga wasn't that bad although I was getting frustrated by trying to study or trying to be involved in the conversations. I hate how a lot of the time I feel like I'm having to try really hard to be a part of a conversation or when we're walking together. Anyways when we got there we went to the mall and shopped for a few hours. Then we went to the beach to eat our lunch even though the sun wasn't out. We spent a while finding seashells, climbed a big rock thing, then headed back when it started to rain a little. Some of the girls got some snacks in the mall before we headed to the church for the concert. The concert was alright. There were around 17 acts/groups but we only stayed for 10 of them. Our 2 dance groups went and naturally they were my favorite. Haha. The other groups all sang and the way concerts are, it's hard to hear the words sometimes anyways and then trying to understand the Spanish.. fuunnn. When we left we went to go get food at the mall. We went to a Mexican place and I just got some chips and guacamole which was great though because I've been craving chips and salsa. And to my surprise I now really like guacamole. Haha. Spain has definitely ended most of my picky-eating habits.
We got back and then it was time to head home! We got back to the house at 12:30 and I stayed up until about 1:30 and then was out for the night. A good nights sleep was just what I needed.
This morning we've just stayed in and have been studying. I just got done skyping with my mom for an hour. I get to see my sister in 5 days!! I can't believe how soon it is and I can't wait. :)
Alas.. it is a day of rain today so instead of getting outside for a run I suppose I'll get back to studying now. I just want these midterms to be done already and off to London!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Tests, Cravings, and Mood Swings
Things have been going alright. I'm still stressing out some about midterms but not as much as before. I realized that really.. I do have enough time and it's not like these tests are going to be like the ones at ISU. Plus.. although I wouldn't want this to happen, but if I'm not happy with my midterm grade for the final you're allowed to take a final over the whole semester - not just the 2nd half after midterms - which counts as your grade.
On Tuesday I'll have my art and literature midterms. They're both ones I'll need to study more for - art more than lit. There are a lot of images we've studied and he's going to choose 10 that we're supposed to know the century/years, style, artist, and general details. Lit shouldn't be that bad especially since she narrowed it down a little today.
Wednesday will be grammar and oral/writing midterms. I'm not too worried about either of those. The only problem I'd have with grammar are those exception to the rules type of things. Oral/writing I just need to study the vocab we've been doing.
The weather has continued to be glorious here - today it's been cloudy but that's about it. Love it!
The french students are leaving this weekend which is depressing. Even though I haven't hung out with them nearly as much as I did at first, it's still going to be sad to not randomly see them! We're going to cafe futbol tonight with Camille as a goodbye. I'll definitely miss her! But she said she'd try to come to Chicago sometime so hopefully that happens.
I went out and got myself a thermos type thing today so I can make myself the tea Kory sent me and take it with me if I want to. I've been wanting more chai and to try the other tea but I didn't have something I could keep in my room. Other things I've been craving (but will wait until I get back to the US for.. I just appreciate them A LOT now) are peanut butter and blueberries! I miss other things too like yogurt with fruit and granola, my raisin bran crunch cereal, oatmeal, salsa, our pear salad, tofu, and all kinds of other things. However I do love Spanish food as well and I know I'll miss it incredibly when I go home. Except the bread. I'm getting SO sick of bread. I don't eat all my toast in the morning anymore - especially when it's barely toasted and just tastes like bread. Ugh.
Senora had two days where she got upset with us. We came home around 11 from eating out with the girls and Kathleen's dad and I asked for our towels to shower (because she usually forgets to give them to us when she does laundry) and she flipped out that we wanted to shower at that time. She let us just this once and told us to do so quickly. She also was upset about how we (found out that we = Liz) flush the toilet and that Liz uses the internet too much. But when she wasn't being mad at us she was all happy because Kiko made it through his operation and Kelsey came to visit.
Anyways. Tomorrow morning we're (Kathleen, Liz, and I) going to Alhambra for our art class. On Saturday we're going to Malaga with the youth group to spend the day in the sun and the Christian concert at night. Should be fun and a good chance to get to know people and speak Spanish!
Well lunch should be ready soon. Wonder what we're having..
On Tuesday I'll have my art and literature midterms. They're both ones I'll need to study more for - art more than lit. There are a lot of images we've studied and he's going to choose 10 that we're supposed to know the century/years, style, artist, and general details. Lit shouldn't be that bad especially since she narrowed it down a little today.
Wednesday will be grammar and oral/writing midterms. I'm not too worried about either of those. The only problem I'd have with grammar are those exception to the rules type of things. Oral/writing I just need to study the vocab we've been doing.
The weather has continued to be glorious here - today it's been cloudy but that's about it. Love it!
The french students are leaving this weekend which is depressing. Even though I haven't hung out with them nearly as much as I did at first, it's still going to be sad to not randomly see them! We're going to cafe futbol tonight with Camille as a goodbye. I'll definitely miss her! But she said she'd try to come to Chicago sometime so hopefully that happens.
I went out and got myself a thermos type thing today so I can make myself the tea Kory sent me and take it with me if I want to. I've been wanting more chai and to try the other tea but I didn't have something I could keep in my room. Other things I've been craving (but will wait until I get back to the US for.. I just appreciate them A LOT now) are peanut butter and blueberries! I miss other things too like yogurt with fruit and granola, my raisin bran crunch cereal, oatmeal, salsa, our pear salad, tofu, and all kinds of other things. However I do love Spanish food as well and I know I'll miss it incredibly when I go home. Except the bread. I'm getting SO sick of bread. I don't eat all my toast in the morning anymore - especially when it's barely toasted and just tastes like bread. Ugh.
Senora had two days where she got upset with us. We came home around 11 from eating out with the girls and Kathleen's dad and I asked for our towels to shower (because she usually forgets to give them to us when she does laundry) and she flipped out that we wanted to shower at that time. She let us just this once and told us to do so quickly. She also was upset about how we (found out that we = Liz) flush the toilet and that Liz uses the internet too much. But when she wasn't being mad at us she was all happy because Kiko made it through his operation and Kelsey came to visit.
Anyways. Tomorrow morning we're (Kathleen, Liz, and I) going to Alhambra for our art class. On Saturday we're going to Malaga with the youth group to spend the day in the sun and the Christian concert at night. Should be fun and a good chance to get to know people and speak Spanish!
Well lunch should be ready soon. Wonder what we're having..
Monday, March 15, 2010
I'd have to say this week has definitely been one of the best.
The sun has been shining and according to the forecast it looks like it'll continue. Getting to know Kathleen's dad and Teresa has been great - they're interesting, hilarious, and generous people who have taken us all out for dinner/dessert/places like the Sierra Nevada. I got my package from Kory with gifts from Alex and Jared included which was awesome! I also got to skype with Kory, Nicole, my mom, and both my sisters. I called my grandparents and talked to them for the first time since I left which I could tell meant a lot to them and it meant a lot to me too. Most of the travel stuff is booked for when Rosemary comes so the trip is leaning away from the stress side to the just excited side. And just all kinda of little things here and there have made this week a good one. :)
So yeah Saturday we went up to the mountains and hung around, ate lunch, took the chair lift up and down, got some hot chocolate and pastries, and then headed home. It was beautiful up there and great to just get away from the city for a little while. Today we went to church, along with Don and Teresa even though they don't understand Spanish. Afterwards we actually met some people our age from the church and signed up to go to Malaga this Saturday with the youth group. It's only 13 euro for the whole trip and a Christian concert at night so it should be a lot of fun! Plus a great way to practice Spanish and make some friends. After church I stayed in allll day working on homework and studying. I was definitely ready to get out of the house so I'm glad we were invited out to dinner again. We went to the pizza place we went to the other night but I got my own pizza this time because no one else wanted it but Teresa insisted I get what I wanted. Afterwards we went to cafe futbol again where I got a scoop of frozen yogurt. Mmm.
I'm looking forward to this week even with the school things I'll have to do. I sign up for classes tomorrow and I'm not too sure what to do about summer classes because HCC and ISU either are at the same time or at opposite times of the day meaning I wouldn't be able to work. Or I could take both classes at ISU even though the teachers don't have great ratings. Luckily I've already been placed into my nursing classes, I just have to sign up for them now. I'll have Monday and Friday off but my other days are rather long. 8-6 on Tuesday and Wednesday (with a couple hours for lunch) and a clinical on Wednesday from 7-3. Honors section for lab and clinical - not sure what that's going to be like!
For school here I have a presentation on Wednesday and I chose to talk about St. Patrick's day. It seemed logical. And I'll have to be studying for those midterms!
Anyways - I'm getting rather tired now and should probably go to bed. Goodnight all!
The sun has been shining and according to the forecast it looks like it'll continue. Getting to know Kathleen's dad and Teresa has been great - they're interesting, hilarious, and generous people who have taken us all out for dinner/dessert/places like the Sierra Nevada. I got my package from Kory with gifts from Alex and Jared included which was awesome! I also got to skype with Kory, Nicole, my mom, and both my sisters. I called my grandparents and talked to them for the first time since I left which I could tell meant a lot to them and it meant a lot to me too. Most of the travel stuff is booked for when Rosemary comes so the trip is leaning away from the stress side to the just excited side. And just all kinda of little things here and there have made this week a good one. :)
So yeah Saturday we went up to the mountains and hung around, ate lunch, took the chair lift up and down, got some hot chocolate and pastries, and then headed home. It was beautiful up there and great to just get away from the city for a little while. Today we went to church, along with Don and Teresa even though they don't understand Spanish. Afterwards we actually met some people our age from the church and signed up to go to Malaga this Saturday with the youth group. It's only 13 euro for the whole trip and a Christian concert at night so it should be a lot of fun! Plus a great way to practice Spanish and make some friends. After church I stayed in allll day working on homework and studying. I was definitely ready to get out of the house so I'm glad we were invited out to dinner again. We went to the pizza place we went to the other night but I got my own pizza this time because no one else wanted it but Teresa insisted I get what I wanted. Afterwards we went to cafe futbol again where I got a scoop of frozen yogurt. Mmm.
I'm looking forward to this week even with the school things I'll have to do. I sign up for classes tomorrow and I'm not too sure what to do about summer classes because HCC and ISU either are at the same time or at opposite times of the day meaning I wouldn't be able to work. Or I could take both classes at ISU even though the teachers don't have great ratings. Luckily I've already been placed into my nursing classes, I just have to sign up for them now. I'll have Monday and Friday off but my other days are rather long. 8-6 on Tuesday and Wednesday (with a couple hours for lunch) and a clinical on Wednesday from 7-3. Honors section for lab and clinical - not sure what that's going to be like!
For school here I have a presentation on Wednesday and I chose to talk about St. Patrick's day. It seemed logical. And I'll have to be studying for those midterms!
Anyways - I'm getting rather tired now and should probably go to bed. Goodnight all!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Deep Thinking
Wednesday night ended up being a very good night at our first bible study. It was just Liz, Kathleen, Kelsey, a couple other girls, and me. We had some snacks, got to know each other, and then got into Matthew 13. We read through it, analyzed it, applied it to life, and then in general thought about our lives. It took some deep thinking and some sharing. This deep thinking also led to me realizing how much I let my weight/body/health be the center of my life. I want to be conscious of it but not obsessed with it. I was fine back home but here since I don't control what I eat and the weather determines when I work out.. it's been causing some stress for me. But I'm going to try to change that.
Yesterday after school we went to pick up Kathleen's dad and his girlfriend but some mix-ups happened and Liz and I headed home for lunch. After lunch, Kathleen called and asked if we wanted to walk around with them so we joined and went around the park, up to the school, and to cafe futbol where they treated us to some sweets. I finally tried the frozen yogurt which I liked. After that we headed back to tell mamacita we weren't going to eat at home for dinner because they invited us to eat out with them. I went and skyped with Kory which was great! I haven't seen her for a couple months now aaand I should be getting a package from her either today or tomorrow! CAN'T WAIT! :)
Headed back and then headed out to meet up for dinner. We wanted Chinese food so we checked out a few places before choosing one. We were worried about it because we were the only ones in there but we found out that getting take-out is much more popular. The food was delicious I thought. I just got some chop-suey vegetable plate with white rice. I ate it all - mushrooms, peppers, onions.. EVERYTHING. Haha. Back home I probably wouldn't have eaten some of the stuff in there but trying all this Spain food has definitely changed my food habits. Her dad paid for us which was so nice of him and we were all verrry grateful. Yay parents!
They were going to go out last night and I suggested to Nicole going to see a movie instead but we all decided to call it a night because we were exhausted anyways. But tonight they're going out bar-hopping. Bar-hopping isn't my thing so I probably won't go. I'm sure it's fun if you've been drinking but I just have no desire to drink. So maybe Nicole and I could see a movie tonight.
Anyways.. this weekend will be devoted mostly to school which is a first since I've been here. I have a paper to write for POE and a presentation on Thursday. For literature we have to read a story like usual but I also want to start researching for our group project. Then I want to start studying for our partial exams. There are also still some things to look up for when Rosemary comes and I want to start getting a general plan of what we could do each day.
Well I'm going to head up to the school to work on things in case I need to print anything out and plus Liz will probably go back to sleep.
Yesterday after school we went to pick up Kathleen's dad and his girlfriend but some mix-ups happened and Liz and I headed home for lunch. After lunch, Kathleen called and asked if we wanted to walk around with them so we joined and went around the park, up to the school, and to cafe futbol where they treated us to some sweets. I finally tried the frozen yogurt which I liked. After that we headed back to tell mamacita we weren't going to eat at home for dinner because they invited us to eat out with them. I went and skyped with Kory which was great! I haven't seen her for a couple months now aaand I should be getting a package from her either today or tomorrow! CAN'T WAIT! :)
Headed back and then headed out to meet up for dinner. We wanted Chinese food so we checked out a few places before choosing one. We were worried about it because we were the only ones in there but we found out that getting take-out is much more popular. The food was delicious I thought. I just got some chop-suey vegetable plate with white rice. I ate it all - mushrooms, peppers, onions.. EVERYTHING. Haha. Back home I probably wouldn't have eaten some of the stuff in there but trying all this Spain food has definitely changed my food habits. Her dad paid for us which was so nice of him and we were all verrry grateful. Yay parents!
They were going to go out last night and I suggested to Nicole going to see a movie instead but we all decided to call it a night because we were exhausted anyways. But tonight they're going out bar-hopping. Bar-hopping isn't my thing so I probably won't go. I'm sure it's fun if you've been drinking but I just have no desire to drink. So maybe Nicole and I could see a movie tonight.
Anyways.. this weekend will be devoted mostly to school which is a first since I've been here. I have a paper to write for POE and a presentation on Thursday. For literature we have to read a story like usual but I also want to start researching for our group project. Then I want to start studying for our partial exams. There are also still some things to look up for when Rosemary comes and I want to start getting a general plan of what we could do each day.
Well I'm going to head up to the school to work on things in case I need to print anything out and plus Liz will probably go back to sleep.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Morocco
Well Friday morning I got all packed and ready to go to head out at 12:45. While on the bus, I ate the lunch mamcita packed me - a bocadillo (sandwich), apple, mandarine, juice, water, and pastry type thing - I love her packed lunches. :)
After a few hours to Malaga to pick up some students, another ride to the ferry, and the ride over we were finally in Africa! We got our passports checked at the border and headed to the hotel in Tetuan. It was kinda late when we arrived and we were all ready for dinner! The food was average/good - the vegetarian option was an omelet instead of fish, rice, and vegetables. The dessert was flan but made with eggs.. which smelled and tasted weird so not many people ate it. After dinner, we went to our rooms, settled down, and slept. I shared a room with Chloe while Nicole, Liz, and Megan were in a room together.
It was weird to be apart from them but I got to know Chloe. We're similar in a few ways - for one, we use the same earplugs and love a dark room for sleeping, two - we're both obviously morning people because we actually get up when the alarm goes off and take about the same amount of time to get ready, and we both love to run when the weather permits it. However, she has been running a lot longer than me and from the sounds of it, can run faster and much longer than I can.
On Saturday we were provided breakfast by the hotel. It wasn't anything fantastic but there was a cornbread type thing that tasted good with jam, some tasty bread, good little pastry things, and a crepe type thing. There was yogurt too which I didn't realize until we were leaving for good which really upset me because I miss yogurt so much!
Anyways we went to exchange money before heading to the historic medina bazaar of Tetuan. Our tour guide was hilarious and speaks.. I don't even know how many languages. So he would often say things in Spanish and English. His english, although good, was harder to understand because of his accent. He took us all around, through a lot of markets, streets, and whatnot. The markets were a little disturbing at times because of the live, dead, or on the way to being dead animals - mostly chickens. It was also really dirty and smelly BUT a huge part of the culture. We learned that their doors to places are shorter than they should be because one should be bowing when entering a place because it's a sacred place. I always wondered why the doors seemed so short.
We went to a rug making place and they showed us many different rugs. Afterwards people could buy if they wanted but they were way too much. I wanted to get one for the house but had NO idea what colors, patterns, size, etc.. and didn't want to spend the money on something that wasn't going to work anyways. It had been raining all day and the downstairs of the store started flooding when we were there. So we left for the place we ate lunch at. It was a little bit of vegetable soup and couscous with carrots, uhh maybe cabbage or something, and chicken for meat-eaters. Dessert was slices of orange with some sugar/spice on top. I thought it was good.
After that we left for Tanger but stopped for camel rides on the way. It was raining out and I only had one pair of jeans with me.. so I didn't do it. And ya know.. I should have anyways but Nicole and Chloe weren't doing it either and really you just get on, walk about 5 steps, and get off. Eh.. oh well. So we got to Tanger and had a tour there plus some free time. It was pretty similar to Tetuan but more.. modern I guess you'd say - a little cleaner too.
We headed back to the hotel for dinner where again.. omelete instead of chicken. Still good though - I liked this meal better than the first. It had some fries, cauliflower with cheese, and some rice. The dessert was fruit which I ate mine and Liz's because she didn't trust it. Haha.
Took a shower and went to bed exhausted from such a long day. On Sunday we had our breakfast and headed out with all our stuff. We went to Chef-chaouen, although this time without our tour guide (who we referred to as Michael Douglass because he made a joke about them looking alike). We got a different guide who took us throughout the city. It's all blue and white.. and some green. The blue represents the love of god, green is peace, and white is the color of Arabics I think.. I don't know but all the houses were painted blue and white. It was a really pretty city surrounded by mountains. We had some free time before lunch at a hotel. The lunch was good however.. another omelet for the vegetarians. And surprisingly, there were quite a few of us. We also had vegetables and potatoes. Dessert was another bowl of fruit which I ate up happily.
After that we headed out. We stopped back at the hotel for a bathroom break before going to the border. Took another ferry ride back and headed to Malaga then Granada. We had to deal with snacks at our rest stop for dinner. The ride was sooo long and many people felt a little sick from it but just the length bothered me. Plus not being able to sleep for any of it sucks.
But all in all it was a good, very interesting trip and I learned a lot about their culture. I got some small souvenirs for people but nothing big like what some of the others got. I like to get little things here and there plus I can never make up my mind quick enough for the bigger purchases. Or it'll be something I want for myself and I feel selfish for spending so much on me.
In other news - I'm starting to feel slightly like a college student again. Even though I still don't have that much to do, it seems like all the things I have to do are happening now. I need to study for midterms which are in 2 weeks, prepare a presentation for March 17th, a group presentation for April something, and continue planning spring break. Although.. thankfully my mom and sister have planned almost everything and booked getting to places. Now we just need to find places to stay and plan what we're going to do while we're there (although that will be the fun part).
I've gotten out to run the last two days which is great, although it's been a little on the chilly side lately. It's so unusual for Spain - there are places with lots of snow that's already ruined plans for semana santa, weather has caused deaths and destruction of buildings, etc. Tomorrow we're going to a bible study at Kelsey's so we'll see how that goes. Thursday I'm skyping with Kory (yay!) and this weekend I don't plan on going anywhere but we'll see.
WELL. Sorry this is so long and I suppose I should be getting to either more searching for the trip or homework.
Adios!
After a few hours to Malaga to pick up some students, another ride to the ferry, and the ride over we were finally in Africa! We got our passports checked at the border and headed to the hotel in Tetuan. It was kinda late when we arrived and we were all ready for dinner! The food was average/good - the vegetarian option was an omelet instead of fish, rice, and vegetables. The dessert was flan but made with eggs.. which smelled and tasted weird so not many people ate it. After dinner, we went to our rooms, settled down, and slept. I shared a room with Chloe while Nicole, Liz, and Megan were in a room together.
It was weird to be apart from them but I got to know Chloe. We're similar in a few ways - for one, we use the same earplugs and love a dark room for sleeping, two - we're both obviously morning people because we actually get up when the alarm goes off and take about the same amount of time to get ready, and we both love to run when the weather permits it. However, she has been running a lot longer than me and from the sounds of it, can run faster and much longer than I can.
On Saturday we were provided breakfast by the hotel. It wasn't anything fantastic but there was a cornbread type thing that tasted good with jam, some tasty bread, good little pastry things, and a crepe type thing. There was yogurt too which I didn't realize until we were leaving for good which really upset me because I miss yogurt so much!
Anyways we went to exchange money before heading to the historic medina bazaar of Tetuan. Our tour guide was hilarious and speaks.. I don't even know how many languages. So he would often say things in Spanish and English. His english, although good, was harder to understand because of his accent. He took us all around, through a lot of markets, streets, and whatnot. The markets were a little disturbing at times because of the live, dead, or on the way to being dead animals - mostly chickens. It was also really dirty and smelly BUT a huge part of the culture. We learned that their doors to places are shorter than they should be because one should be bowing when entering a place because it's a sacred place. I always wondered why the doors seemed so short.
We went to a rug making place and they showed us many different rugs. Afterwards people could buy if they wanted but they were way too much. I wanted to get one for the house but had NO idea what colors, patterns, size, etc.. and didn't want to spend the money on something that wasn't going to work anyways. It had been raining all day and the downstairs of the store started flooding when we were there. So we left for the place we ate lunch at. It was a little bit of vegetable soup and couscous with carrots, uhh maybe cabbage or something, and chicken for meat-eaters. Dessert was slices of orange with some sugar/spice on top. I thought it was good.
After that we left for Tanger but stopped for camel rides on the way. It was raining out and I only had one pair of jeans with me.. so I didn't do it. And ya know.. I should have anyways but Nicole and Chloe weren't doing it either and really you just get on, walk about 5 steps, and get off. Eh.. oh well. So we got to Tanger and had a tour there plus some free time. It was pretty similar to Tetuan but more.. modern I guess you'd say - a little cleaner too.
We headed back to the hotel for dinner where again.. omelete instead of chicken. Still good though - I liked this meal better than the first. It had some fries, cauliflower with cheese, and some rice. The dessert was fruit which I ate mine and Liz's because she didn't trust it. Haha.
Took a shower and went to bed exhausted from such a long day. On Sunday we had our breakfast and headed out with all our stuff. We went to Chef-chaouen, although this time without our tour guide (who we referred to as Michael Douglass because he made a joke about them looking alike). We got a different guide who took us throughout the city. It's all blue and white.. and some green. The blue represents the love of god, green is peace, and white is the color of Arabics I think.. I don't know but all the houses were painted blue and white. It was a really pretty city surrounded by mountains. We had some free time before lunch at a hotel. The lunch was good however.. another omelet for the vegetarians. And surprisingly, there were quite a few of us. We also had vegetables and potatoes. Dessert was another bowl of fruit which I ate up happily.
After that we headed out. We stopped back at the hotel for a bathroom break before going to the border. Took another ferry ride back and headed to Malaga then Granada. We had to deal with snacks at our rest stop for dinner. The ride was sooo long and many people felt a little sick from it but just the length bothered me. Plus not being able to sleep for any of it sucks.
But all in all it was a good, very interesting trip and I learned a lot about their culture. I got some small souvenirs for people but nothing big like what some of the others got. I like to get little things here and there plus I can never make up my mind quick enough for the bigger purchases. Or it'll be something I want for myself and I feel selfish for spending so much on me.
In other news - I'm starting to feel slightly like a college student again. Even though I still don't have that much to do, it seems like all the things I have to do are happening now. I need to study for midterms which are in 2 weeks, prepare a presentation for March 17th, a group presentation for April something, and continue planning spring break. Although.. thankfully my mom and sister have planned almost everything and booked getting to places. Now we just need to find places to stay and plan what we're going to do while we're there (although that will be the fun part).
I've gotten out to run the last two days which is great, although it's been a little on the chilly side lately. It's so unusual for Spain - there are places with lots of snow that's already ruined plans for semana santa, weather has caused deaths and destruction of buildings, etc. Tomorrow we're going to a bible study at Kelsey's so we'll see how that goes. Thursday I'm skyping with Kory (yay!) and this weekend I don't plan on going anywhere but we'll see.
WELL. Sorry this is so long and I suppose I should be getting to either more searching for the trip or homework.
Adios!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
We can steal wi-fi in the room again! The one that worked before a lock was put on it is unlocked again. Plus I've been picking up antonio's after a while of not having it at all. Yay! Let's hope it continues to work.. at least until we get our own which they were talking about at lunch today and Begonia sounds kinda upset with the company because they keep on saying it's supposed to come and doesn't.
Anyways. My stomach has been bothering me lately and I have no idea why. So perhaps it wasn't a great idea to go running today but my stomach was feeling fine this morning. Besides on Monday, although it was beautiful out and we didn't have school, that meant there were a ton of people at the park so it was hard to run around them. Yesterday it was raining. Today it started raining towards the end of my run.
Monday we also went up to the albaicin again and hung around. Got some green tea because you could keep the cup as a souvenir and it was only a euro. Then when we were looking at the jewelry, the cops came so everyone packed their stuff up (super quickly!) because I guess they're not supposed to be selling their stuff there. We ran into a group of Americans with one of their host brothers and he showed all of us around some really cool places to eat along the path back down. He was also telling us other cool information/events of Granada.
Yesterday was just a regular day. I sent off another postcard to my grandparents and my application to Heartland so I can take a summer class there. Oh I finally found some vegetarian burgers at corte ingles yesterday but it's like almost 5 euro for two things. Plus I've been getting along fine and it would be weird to ask Mamacita to make them for me.
As of right now, the group from ISU going to Morocco this weekend is Liz, Nicole, Megan, Chloe, Sarah, Jessica, Christine, and Candace. There are probably more people that I don't know about but yeah. Still super excited! We leave Friday at like 1:15.
P.S. - Dear mom.. I'm really glad you know me well enough to know when I say "Oh man I want chocolate but I don't need it, don't send it" that I'm really saying "Sure I know I don't need it but it would be great if you sent me some anyways" haha. One symphony bar down (almost).. 2 to go. :)
Anyways. My stomach has been bothering me lately and I have no idea why. So perhaps it wasn't a great idea to go running today but my stomach was feeling fine this morning. Besides on Monday, although it was beautiful out and we didn't have school, that meant there were a ton of people at the park so it was hard to run around them. Yesterday it was raining. Today it started raining towards the end of my run.
Monday we also went up to the albaicin again and hung around. Got some green tea because you could keep the cup as a souvenir and it was only a euro. Then when we were looking at the jewelry, the cops came so everyone packed their stuff up (super quickly!) because I guess they're not supposed to be selling their stuff there. We ran into a group of Americans with one of their host brothers and he showed all of us around some really cool places to eat along the path back down. He was also telling us other cool information/events of Granada.
Yesterday was just a regular day. I sent off another postcard to my grandparents and my application to Heartland so I can take a summer class there. Oh I finally found some vegetarian burgers at corte ingles yesterday but it's like almost 5 euro for two things. Plus I've been getting along fine and it would be weird to ask Mamacita to make them for me.
As of right now, the group from ISU going to Morocco this weekend is Liz, Nicole, Megan, Chloe, Sarah, Jessica, Christine, and Candace. There are probably more people that I don't know about but yeah. Still super excited! We leave Friday at like 1:15.
P.S. - Dear mom.. I'm really glad you know me well enough to know when I say "Oh man I want chocolate but I don't need it, don't send it" that I'm really saying "Sure I know I don't need it but it would be great if you sent me some anyways" haha. One symphony bar down (almost).. 2 to go. :)
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Flamenco!
Our trip to Sevilla (Seville.. same thing) was just peachy! Our bus there took about 3 hours but the scene along the way is so beautiful with the mountains I didn't mind. Megan threw up on the way there haha buuut other than that all went well. Our hostal was great! It had computers we could use for free, a great terrace on the roof, an open kitchen (although no free breakfast) and the room had its own bathroom. The staff was super nice and it was clean. I bought some cereal before we came and got milk while we were there and enjoyed some cereal for breakfast!
We went to see the Alcazar and got in for free because of our student card which was sweeeet. It looked a lot like the Alhambra because it was built in the Moorish style. It would have been cool to have known more history about it but it was still really interesting and I plan on reading up about it.
We wanted to go see a flamenco show that night but it was sold out so we bought tickets for Saturday night. Instead we walked around this "gypsie" village although I think it was too late because there was like no one around. We were looking for somewhere to eat and were starving and so when we saw McDonalds we went with it although it was right next to a place I'd heard of with good deals and a vegetarian menu. And next to pans & co which has alright sandwiches. When we found that out I was so mad we went to McDs. Ugh. But I had a salad.
Saturday we went to see the Plaza de Espana which was my favorite part. The downer was that there was construction going on so some of the cities were blocked off. It has little sections for each city along the walls, bridges, and a big building. All very beautiful. After that we went to the cathedral that supposedly had a small piece from the real cross. It was huge and we went up the tower too. We went back to the hostal to get ready and ate before going to the show. The food was delicious - I got 2 tapas, one was a spinach umm.. I forget the name but it's like blended together and breaded/fried and a small salad.. and also some couscous. The flamenco show was sweet! It was small and only an hour but still very enjoyable! The guitar player was really good. I could've done without the singer.. he was kinda annoying but the girl who danced was very serious and the guy seemed to be having more fun. They both moved their feet so fast though.
Today we didn't really have anything to do so we just walked around and sat by the river to eat lunch and lay around in the sun for a few hours. Both mornings, I woke up at like 8:30 and got ready, ate breakfast, and hung out on the terrace before the other girls finally got up around 10:30. Haha. But it was enjoyable.
We got back right at 8:30, mamacita made us dinner (which I happily ate all of!), I took a shower, then came here to skype. But the connection wasn't that great, the TV was loud, and I felt bad for having to talk so loud. So from now on, I'll still use the internet cafe until we get our own internet which will hopefully be soon.
Still excited for Morocco next weekend! And for Semana Santa when my sister comes!! It's going to be SO nice to have that piece of home with me in the middle of my stay here. :)
We went to see the Alcazar and got in for free because of our student card which was sweeeet. It looked a lot like the Alhambra because it was built in the Moorish style. It would have been cool to have known more history about it but it was still really interesting and I plan on reading up about it.
We wanted to go see a flamenco show that night but it was sold out so we bought tickets for Saturday night. Instead we walked around this "gypsie" village although I think it was too late because there was like no one around. We were looking for somewhere to eat and were starving and so when we saw McDonalds we went with it although it was right next to a place I'd heard of with good deals and a vegetarian menu. And next to pans & co which has alright sandwiches. When we found that out I was so mad we went to McDs. Ugh. But I had a salad.
Saturday we went to see the Plaza de Espana which was my favorite part. The downer was that there was construction going on so some of the cities were blocked off. It has little sections for each city along the walls, bridges, and a big building. All very beautiful. After that we went to the cathedral that supposedly had a small piece from the real cross. It was huge and we went up the tower too. We went back to the hostal to get ready and ate before going to the show. The food was delicious - I got 2 tapas, one was a spinach umm.. I forget the name but it's like blended together and breaded/fried and a small salad.. and also some couscous. The flamenco show was sweet! It was small and only an hour but still very enjoyable! The guitar player was really good. I could've done without the singer.. he was kinda annoying but the girl who danced was very serious and the guy seemed to be having more fun. They both moved their feet so fast though.
Today we didn't really have anything to do so we just walked around and sat by the river to eat lunch and lay around in the sun for a few hours. Both mornings, I woke up at like 8:30 and got ready, ate breakfast, and hung out on the terrace before the other girls finally got up around 10:30. Haha. But it was enjoyable.
We got back right at 8:30, mamacita made us dinner (which I happily ate all of!), I took a shower, then came here to skype. But the connection wasn't that great, the TV was loud, and I felt bad for having to talk so loud. So from now on, I'll still use the internet cafe until we get our own internet which will hopefully be soon.
Still excited for Morocco next weekend! And for Semana Santa when my sister comes!! It's going to be SO nice to have that piece of home with me in the middle of my stay here. :)
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Sevilla
Another week has gone by. Time seems to be going a lot faster now. I can't believe we've been here almost two months with three months left. I know that leaving will be bittersweet. When I imagine how I'm going to feel when I arrive back home, I get emotional just thinking how it's going to feel to see my family and friends again. But I also know going back means getting a kick from reality. It'll be back to work, back to the nursing program, making my own food (which is nothing compared to Spanish food), and having all kinds of responsibilities. Yeah.. that whole thing called LIFE. Haha. But while I'm physically here I need to be mentally here as well and not dwelling on what it'll be like to be home becuase I don't want to miss out on anything here.
This weekend, we're just going to Sevilla from tomorrow morning until Sunday night. We wanted to add another place in there because we don't have school on Monday but it costs a lot to go to Portugal and Ryanair doesn't have any flights there. Should still be fun though - Sevilla is the capital of Andalusia. Next weekend is Morrocco!!
It's getting warmer out which is exciting! Like in the 60´s so when the sun is out it´s perrrfect. :) However.. it continues to rain.. a lot.
Anyways - not much else to say. Hasta luego!
This weekend, we're just going to Sevilla from tomorrow morning until Sunday night. We wanted to add another place in there because we don't have school on Monday but it costs a lot to go to Portugal and Ryanair doesn't have any flights there. Should still be fun though - Sevilla is the capital of Andalusia. Next weekend is Morrocco!!
It's getting warmer out which is exciting! Like in the 60´s so when the sun is out it´s perrrfect. :) However.. it continues to rain.. a lot.
Anyways - not much else to say. Hasta luego!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Blessed
The rest of the week went really well. I’m feeling a lot better and finally got a good night of sleep last night!
Thursday night we went to the karaoke bar first and ran into Kelsey. It was really crowded in there so eventually we decided to head out. We went to this bar that has free salsa classes on Sun/Mon nights but the guy who teaches them was there and was showing us some moves. Hah.. I suck at dancing. It was still fun though! We also ran into a group of our people there who were mostly pretty drunk already. We headed up to Camborio just before the cut off time for ladies getting in for free. I can’t say I was having a great time since I didn’t really want to go out in the first place. So Kathleen, Nicole, and I left together.
Friday we didn’t do too much during the day. Obviously nothing important since I can’t even remember what we did. That night we went to some bars around the Chup but again.. wasn’t having that much fun. The smoke was bothering my lungs and eyes a lot. I didn’t drink at all either night so that might be why I wasn’t all into it. Drinking still just.. isn’t me. I’ve tried to go along with it a couple times and although I’ve had some fun – it just doesn’t feel right. I’d much rather be sitting around with my friends, laughing, playing apples to apples, etc.
Yesterday morning I got my package from my mom! It was complete with movies, chocolate, vitamins, blank CDs, an itunes gift card, power bars, and a card. I was SO excited for everything and so glad my mom sent it to me! ☺ Then since it was a beautiful day out, I went to the park for a run/walk. It’s hard to run right now because I start coughing a lot when I do but I still enjoyed walking around and whatnot. After lunch, we met up with Nicole and Kathleen to walk to the albaicin and see what’s up there. There were amazing views, plazas with music, people selling jewelry, and a lot of “hippie” type people. Afterwards we were just walking around and were going to check out where the flamenco shows are. A guy who helps tourists or something spotted us and took us around to the caves where the shows are and helped us out. Once it was starting to get dark and cold we headed home. We were all pretty tired and decided to stay in and watch movies. Liz and I watched Twilight and I lent Moulin Rouge to the others.
This morning, mamacita woke us up for breakfast and afterwards we got ready and went to church. The service was long today and we were sitting where it was hard to see the words. I kinda wish I could go by myself because I would sit closer and in the more student-ish section. And I would stay afterwards to say hi to people and whatnot but they like to leave right after.
But even with the imperfections, I'm realizing more every day just how blessed I am and always have been. I'm so thankful for everyone and everything that have help lead me to where I am and where I will be.
Well that’s about it. We’ll see what this week has in store for me and what adventures I’ll stumble upon. ☺
Thursday night we went to the karaoke bar first and ran into Kelsey. It was really crowded in there so eventually we decided to head out. We went to this bar that has free salsa classes on Sun/Mon nights but the guy who teaches them was there and was showing us some moves. Hah.. I suck at dancing. It was still fun though! We also ran into a group of our people there who were mostly pretty drunk already. We headed up to Camborio just before the cut off time for ladies getting in for free. I can’t say I was having a great time since I didn’t really want to go out in the first place. So Kathleen, Nicole, and I left together.
Friday we didn’t do too much during the day. Obviously nothing important since I can’t even remember what we did. That night we went to some bars around the Chup but again.. wasn’t having that much fun. The smoke was bothering my lungs and eyes a lot. I didn’t drink at all either night so that might be why I wasn’t all into it. Drinking still just.. isn’t me. I’ve tried to go along with it a couple times and although I’ve had some fun – it just doesn’t feel right. I’d much rather be sitting around with my friends, laughing, playing apples to apples, etc.
Yesterday morning I got my package from my mom! It was complete with movies, chocolate, vitamins, blank CDs, an itunes gift card, power bars, and a card. I was SO excited for everything and so glad my mom sent it to me! ☺ Then since it was a beautiful day out, I went to the park for a run/walk. It’s hard to run right now because I start coughing a lot when I do but I still enjoyed walking around and whatnot. After lunch, we met up with Nicole and Kathleen to walk to the albaicin and see what’s up there. There were amazing views, plazas with music, people selling jewelry, and a lot of “hippie” type people. Afterwards we were just walking around and were going to check out where the flamenco shows are. A guy who helps tourists or something spotted us and took us around to the caves where the shows are and helped us out. Once it was starting to get dark and cold we headed home. We were all pretty tired and decided to stay in and watch movies. Liz and I watched Twilight and I lent Moulin Rouge to the others.
This morning, mamacita woke us up for breakfast and afterwards we got ready and went to church. The service was long today and we were sitting where it was hard to see the words. I kinda wish I could go by myself because I would sit closer and in the more student-ish section. And I would stay afterwards to say hi to people and whatnot but they like to leave right after.
But even with the imperfections, I'm realizing more every day just how blessed I am and always have been. I'm so thankful for everyone and everything that have help lead me to where I am and where I will be.
Well that’s about it. We’ll see what this week has in store for me and what adventures I’ll stumble upon. ☺
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Estoy enferma.
Not much has happened so far this week. The weather has been as up and down as usual with rain and sun but luckily I was able to get out for a run all days but yesterday. I´ve been steadily getting sicker and although it´s just a cough and runny nose, it keeps me up at night and wears me out.
Classes have been alright but I´ve been struggling to stay focused and fighting the urge to cough the whole time. I know my friends (especially Liz) want to go up to Camborio tonight but I don´t know if I feel up to it. In the end, I might give in to peer pressure, but really I´ve lost a lot of my interest in going out every week. Plus I just feel so blah right now. We´re supposed to get coffee with Cristian later today and I doubt I´ll even feel like going to that but probably will so Liz doesn´t go alone.
We don´t have any plans for this weekend which is fine with me. Time to relax and hopefully get over this sickness. I might regret later not going to Carnival in Cadiz but oh well. Next weekend we have Monday off so some of us are planning on taking buses to Sevilla and Malaga. The next weekend we´re going to Morrocco. Then I don´t know.. maybe Barcelona for a game? We´re still trying to figure out spring break but I´m thinking we´ll spend a few days in England, go to Croatia and take ferries out to see the different islands around there. Then hopefully figure out a way to get to a few places in Italy on our way back to Spain. I´m thinking about seeing if there´s someone from my church that my sister could stay with while she´s here. I know Kelsey will have her own apartment so maybe her but I don´t know. We´ll see what we can do here in Granada and maybe take buses to places around here while I have school. Then spend the weekend in Paris before Rosemary has to go back home. I just really hope I can figure everything out with transportation and that it ends up being an amazing trip for her. :)
I´m getting a little homesick now that I´m sick. I miss the comforts of home, being able to eat and drink when and what I want (I really want some tea!), and having my mom to take care of me and make me take whatever vitamins I need.
But that doesn´t mean that I don´t like being here too. I love being here. My life is an adventure almost every day. I just appreciate what I have back home a lot more now.
Classes have been alright but I´ve been struggling to stay focused and fighting the urge to cough the whole time. I know my friends (especially Liz) want to go up to Camborio tonight but I don´t know if I feel up to it. In the end, I might give in to peer pressure, but really I´ve lost a lot of my interest in going out every week. Plus I just feel so blah right now. We´re supposed to get coffee with Cristian later today and I doubt I´ll even feel like going to that but probably will so Liz doesn´t go alone.
We don´t have any plans for this weekend which is fine with me. Time to relax and hopefully get over this sickness. I might regret later not going to Carnival in Cadiz but oh well. Next weekend we have Monday off so some of us are planning on taking buses to Sevilla and Malaga. The next weekend we´re going to Morrocco. Then I don´t know.. maybe Barcelona for a game? We´re still trying to figure out spring break but I´m thinking we´ll spend a few days in England, go to Croatia and take ferries out to see the different islands around there. Then hopefully figure out a way to get to a few places in Italy on our way back to Spain. I´m thinking about seeing if there´s someone from my church that my sister could stay with while she´s here. I know Kelsey will have her own apartment so maybe her but I don´t know. We´ll see what we can do here in Granada and maybe take buses to places around here while I have school. Then spend the weekend in Paris before Rosemary has to go back home. I just really hope I can figure everything out with transportation and that it ends up being an amazing trip for her. :)
I´m getting a little homesick now that I´m sick. I miss the comforts of home, being able to eat and drink when and what I want (I really want some tea!), and having my mom to take care of me and make me take whatever vitamins I need.
But that doesn´t mean that I don´t like being here too. I love being here. My life is an adventure almost every day. I just appreciate what I have back home a lot more now.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
La iglesia
This weekend has just kinda been relaxing and we haven't done too much. Liz has been sick and it's been rainy/cold out. Yesterday we went out to eat at a Mexican restaurant with the internet cafe guy and talked about our cultures. He's really nice and I had a good time but still didn't talk much. That's one bad thing about having a semi-fluent roommate is that I don't have much of a chance to practice. The food wasn't that great and was definitely the Spanish version of mexican food.
Then us along with Kathleen, Kelsey, and some other girl went to the youth service at the church. It was good - I liked it - it's just hard to concentrate for so long since it's in Spanish. We went to church today and there were a lot more people. I brought my english bible along and looked up what we were talking about which helped me. I loved the music.. especially since one of the ladies played the flute for a couple songs which was a big comfort to me. That's why I love music (without words) - it's universal and no matter where I am, if I here it, it sounds the same.
Today we finally have some sun and no rain so far! It's great after a week of rain, clouds, and cold. As long as it's still nice in about an hour or two, I'll go for a run. :)
So as far as internet goes, we still don't have it in the house. We forgot that by "this week" in Spanish time means "a month or two" that we'll have working internet. But at the 24 hour little grocery store by our place, there's wi-fi. And I know I pick it up in the room so now that we have the password, I'm going to see if it works there.
Alright well we're going to try to plan something to do this month and figure out when we want to take trips places. Fun fun!
Then us along with Kathleen, Kelsey, and some other girl went to the youth service at the church. It was good - I liked it - it's just hard to concentrate for so long since it's in Spanish. We went to church today and there were a lot more people. I brought my english bible along and looked up what we were talking about which helped me. I loved the music.. especially since one of the ladies played the flute for a couple songs which was a big comfort to me. That's why I love music (without words) - it's universal and no matter where I am, if I here it, it sounds the same.
Today we finally have some sun and no rain so far! It's great after a week of rain, clouds, and cold. As long as it's still nice in about an hour or two, I'll go for a run. :)
So as far as internet goes, we still don't have it in the house. We forgot that by "this week" in Spanish time means "a month or two" that we'll have working internet. But at the 24 hour little grocery store by our place, there's wi-fi. And I know I pick it up in the room so now that we have the password, I'm going to see if it works there.
Alright well we're going to try to plan something to do this month and figure out when we want to take trips places. Fun fun!
Friday, February 12, 2010
Ohh dios mio..
I love not having classes on Friday! Haha but right now it´s got me all confused because it feels like it should be Saturday.
My other set of classes don´t seem like they´ll be too bad - the grammar and POE (oral and writing). All of my classes aren´t too bad it´s just the having everything in Spanish that drains me at the end of the day. The literature class might be a tad challenging because we´re expected to read and interpret Spanish literature. I´m alright with getting the general idea but not understanding it the way she wants us to. Oh well.. at least I have friends in all my classes so we can help each other out and hopefully get it in the end.
Wednesday afternoon Liz and I met up with Kelsey for coffee at DunkinCoffee. We were supposed to go running with Kathleen and Megan at 5 but lost track of time talking and before we knew it, it was 5:30. We talked about our experiences with señora - what´s the same and what´s different. Afterwards she came with us back to the house to surprise mamacita. She was so excited! She made us sit and offered us coffee and slices of cake. Although we´d just had coffee, we had some more.
Yesterday Megan and Liz came along to run with me. Kathleen is supposed to come today but the other two might be too sore. Haha. I don´t mind running with them but at the same time I kinda do. My workout is usually just a time for me to relax and do my own thing. But now I have to adjust my workout to how much they can/want to do. I mean I´m glad that I can motivate them to do it but.. I´m just so used to working out by myself.
After dinner last night Liz went to the internet cafe and I stayed to shower and get ready. We were supposed to meet up with Kathleen and Nicole at midnight to head to Camborio but didn´t end up leaving until like 12:45 because Liz was talking with Joey. Sometimes it gets on my nerves when I´m waiting around for her and it´s just like.. nothing else really matters to her it seems like. I just don´t have a boyfriend or friends that need that much attention and I hate being late for things so.. that´s an area she and I kinda clash.
Anyways so we get to Camborio (finally after walking there in the cold!) and are having a good time. Then, we still don´t know what really happened, but Megan had passed out so we got her out onto the chairs away from the dance floor and got her to regain concousness. She said she hit her head on the wall. We had her drink water and were struggling to keep her awake. So many people were crowded around her and.. it was just kinda a mess. We got her stuff and Tecya (her roommate) and her took a cab home. We left too but walked. There was a bit of a problem between Nicole and Sarah Dime that ended in yelling and Nicole pushing her against a wall. Sarah is a bitch in general and what she said about Megan and to Nicole was not good and although Nicole shouldn´t have lost her temper like that.. no one really blamed her. Plus the alcohol they´d both had didn´t help. But she was so mad at herself on the way home and is really worried about it all.
So anywho.. we got home around 4:30 and I didn´t sleep well at all. My feet were freezing and I don´t know.. I just wasn´t tired. Señora made us breakfast and then I headed here to the school while Liz went back to sleep.
Tonight I´ll run and then we´re all going to cafe futbol. Tomorrow Liz and I are eating lunch at a Mexican restaurant with the internet cafe guy who wants to learn more about America before he goes there this summer. Then at night we´re going with Kelsey to the youth service at the church. On Sunday Kathleen wants to go with me to church too so.. yeah should be an interesting weekend.
My other set of classes don´t seem like they´ll be too bad - the grammar and POE (oral and writing). All of my classes aren´t too bad it´s just the having everything in Spanish that drains me at the end of the day. The literature class might be a tad challenging because we´re expected to read and interpret Spanish literature. I´m alright with getting the general idea but not understanding it the way she wants us to. Oh well.. at least I have friends in all my classes so we can help each other out and hopefully get it in the end.
Wednesday afternoon Liz and I met up with Kelsey for coffee at DunkinCoffee. We were supposed to go running with Kathleen and Megan at 5 but lost track of time talking and before we knew it, it was 5:30. We talked about our experiences with señora - what´s the same and what´s different. Afterwards she came with us back to the house to surprise mamacita. She was so excited! She made us sit and offered us coffee and slices of cake. Although we´d just had coffee, we had some more.
Yesterday Megan and Liz came along to run with me. Kathleen is supposed to come today but the other two might be too sore. Haha. I don´t mind running with them but at the same time I kinda do. My workout is usually just a time for me to relax and do my own thing. But now I have to adjust my workout to how much they can/want to do. I mean I´m glad that I can motivate them to do it but.. I´m just so used to working out by myself.
After dinner last night Liz went to the internet cafe and I stayed to shower and get ready. We were supposed to meet up with Kathleen and Nicole at midnight to head to Camborio but didn´t end up leaving until like 12:45 because Liz was talking with Joey. Sometimes it gets on my nerves when I´m waiting around for her and it´s just like.. nothing else really matters to her it seems like. I just don´t have a boyfriend or friends that need that much attention and I hate being late for things so.. that´s an area she and I kinda clash.
Anyways so we get to Camborio (finally after walking there in the cold!) and are having a good time. Then, we still don´t know what really happened, but Megan had passed out so we got her out onto the chairs away from the dance floor and got her to regain concousness. She said she hit her head on the wall. We had her drink water and were struggling to keep her awake. So many people were crowded around her and.. it was just kinda a mess. We got her stuff and Tecya (her roommate) and her took a cab home. We left too but walked. There was a bit of a problem between Nicole and Sarah Dime that ended in yelling and Nicole pushing her against a wall. Sarah is a bitch in general and what she said about Megan and to Nicole was not good and although Nicole shouldn´t have lost her temper like that.. no one really blamed her. Plus the alcohol they´d both had didn´t help. But she was so mad at herself on the way home and is really worried about it all.
So anywho.. we got home around 4:30 and I didn´t sleep well at all. My feet were freezing and I don´t know.. I just wasn´t tired. Señora made us breakfast and then I headed here to the school while Liz went back to sleep.
Tonight I´ll run and then we´re all going to cafe futbol. Tomorrow Liz and I are eating lunch at a Mexican restaurant with the internet cafe guy who wants to learn more about America before he goes there this summer. Then at night we´re going with Kelsey to the youth service at the church. On Sunday Kathleen wants to go with me to church too so.. yeah should be an interesting weekend.
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