Today is Tuesday (again)...

...and I missed Monday

Tunes: random

I'm going to miss this time of isolation (to an extent). I don't say that in a strong sense of the word, but my time abroad has given me a lot of time to myself, really forcing me to come to terms with internal conflicts and my relationship with God. At times, it has been one of the most difficult thing I've experienced. At times, it has been one of the most beautiful things I've experienced. My time of being in starkly different places with starkly different cultures has forced me to take my external and internal events, and process them with the one ever-consistent thing in my life, God himself.

On Sunday, we had a message about the blessing of prosperity that God gives, and how that applies to the internal health of our hearts. More than ever, I have been experiencing this here in Spain, specifically with regard to having my needs met in a time of isolation. Through events, he has opened up my heart to be able to express myself through writing and music, and he has also given me a group of friends to pour into via a bible study on Monday nights.

So I guess after writing this, I guess I can't say I'm going to miss this, because I will experience this same application of God's provision in different aspects of my life in the different seasons that I come to. Perhaps a different physical journey, but with the same spiritual destination: salvation.

Today is Sunday

Tunes: O.C.M.S.

And I'm going to my church Vida Abundante (Abundant Life). I stumbled upon the place because an American I met at Portland Ale House invited me to check it out. Since that day, my friends Allison, Catherine, Nick, Julian, and Caitlin were started trickling in and were all adopted into the Vida Abundante family. We were met with hugs, words of encouragement, and excitement, as this growing evangelical church showed us God's love.

When I say family, I mean it in many different ways. In the spiritual sense, they are a messy group of brothers and sisters who love God and love people. They do a pretty dang good job. In the traditional sense, I've noticed how every child has 30 uncles and 30 aunts. They love their children and everyone else's children... it's just one big source of love. They've got Spaniards, S. Americans, Americans, Gitanos (gypsies), and people from all over. Christ has broken down barriers in order to create this family, and it's changing lives.

AND they have a fog machine. It was pretty ridiculous when I saw it the first service I attended, but they have a fog machine to accompany their heartfelt music and dancing. If you know my friend Joe Courage, and have experienced his dancing during worship, he has a 70-year-old doppelgänger in Spain who jumps and spins and shouts. And he gives the best hugs.

Off to read and 'descansar' before two days of heavy studying for my last exam on Wednesday :)

Today is (pretty much) Saturday

I'm going to miss random nights staying up late in my kitchen pondering my life while playing solitaire, accompanied by random accordion players passing by my apartment.
Here's a short clip of a street performer in San Sebastián that I recorded:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6Cr4xgKLic

I'm going to miss late-night hangouts with my Italian friends, trying to make sense of a mix of Spanish, Italian, and English to explain the lives we live.

Today is Friday

Tunes: Sviatoslav Richter

I'm going to miss the sociality of Spain. Yes, I admit it. Every night, I pass by tapa bar after tapa bar, and marvel at how well Spaniards know how to get their friends together to eat, drink, and socialize. Just the whole idea of tapas is contrary to most American ways of eating. At home, we each have our own plates, and might share with friends. In Spain, at least with tapas, you basically order a ton of appetizers and share them with the entire table. It's reaching across each other, passing food, talking about anything and everything...

Maybe one day I'll open up a tapa bar. Main items: bravas, jamón serrano, pan, chorizo, croquetas, y calamares. Look out.

First test tomorrow. It will determine my entire grade for my history of philosophical and scientific thought class. Let's see how this brain can perform on Spanish soil.

Today is Thursday

...and I missed an entry yesterday.

I'm studying. A lot.

I'm going to miss the beach here. I haven't seen it in more than a week because I hurt my knee and I've been studying a bunch. I'm just minutes away, and I already miss it. Well, after my exam on Saturday I'll spend some time out there. It's been so nice having the Mediterranean in my back yard.

Today is Tuesday

Tunes: The Acorn

I chose not to write about something I will miss, but something that I will not: the politics and a few cultural aspects of Spain. It has been very good for me to be in Europe, in order to see a collectivist sort of system, which is the opposite of our individualist system in the US. It has helped me to see the idols of both systems, and has taught me very much about the hearts of these people I have been interacting with daily. I have to thank Carmen Manuel, my US lit teacher here, because she has been the one to point out most of these cultural differences.

Socialism:
Marx is held in high esteem here, and if you do not have a socialist train of thought, you are considered heartless. The thing about this system, is that it relies on those who earn the money to pay for everybody else. The communist creed is this: "From each according to his ability, to each according to his need." - Karl Marx. Spain has a very steeply graduated income tax, and the wealthy support (or attempt to support) the spending of this country. Big business is looked down upon, and so is being personally wealthy. If you have money, you are called a "pijo," which means posh/snob/spolied, and despised (I have seen this attitude displayed countless times). So despite the fact that the upper wealth bracket supports a large percentage of the entire economy, they are not rewarded for their success. I just don't understand it. I won't pick at each way this system isn't working, but I will note that this country, along with Portugal, Ireland, Italy, and Greece (google search PIIGS), are some of the most financially hurting countries in Europe.

Conformism (externally and internally)
-Externally: Perhaps this is a minor thing, but appearances are very much a part of the culture here, and if you do not follow the general trend of "do's and don'ts" for fashion, you will be stared at. If it is not June, then it is not yet summer, and you will be stared at for wearing sandals, tank-tops, or shorts, regardless of the temperature.
-Internally: Thought processes. The high school system does not teach critical thinking, but a heavy load of memorization and repetition. The "papers" written in college are akin to what we would consider an outline, and it is mostly 'copy and paste' from other sources. I don't see much challenging of the credibility of the sources from which my colleagues gain their knowledge, and it scares me when I hear the amount of slanted journalism they accept unquestioningly.

Absence of "The American Dream"
I titled it that because Carmen Manuel, my US literature teacher was the first one to point this out to me. There seems to be a general acceptance for one's position in society, and it is bizarre for someone to try to rise above their socioeconomic status. When I first encountered it, it seemed to me as hopelessness. Carmen always talked about how Spaniards are so good at finding someone to blame for each problem, complaining about it, but not doing anything to change the situation because such action is a social abnormality. Carmen usually equates it to Spain's Catholic mindset in opposition to America's Protestant mindset, and I have been playing with that idea very often these past months.

I feel like writing any more seems like me whining about Spain, and such a medium for such sensitive cultural topics leaves much to be desired. If anyone would like to talk about any of these observations in more detail, lemme know.

Off to (try to) study!

Today is Monday

Tunes: iTunes shuffle

Today is Monday, and that means I only have one week and two days left in this faculty. The 16th is my last exam, and then I head to Alicante to kick it with the Fryes until I head home. I was considering what I was going to miss (about our cafeteria) over a cup of coffee: the lady who always greets me by yelling "AMERICANOOO" when I walk in, 80 cent coffee, the most random music playing over the stereo, and all of my classmates that would make me sit with them because it's weird to sit alone in Spain.

Good memories. Perhaps I will pick different aspects of my experience and describe what I will echar de menos when I return. It will be a good way to process my transition and waste time while trying to study.

New pics

Check 'em out

An unforgettable night

Tunes: Timshel

Sunday night: get back from the beach, and have an email waiting for me from Karioka, my capoeira teacher, asking me if I want to party with him and his friends in Elda. Down. So within 5 minutes, I threw some things in my bag and headed out the door for pickup. We caught a bus, and headed down. I had no idea what we had in store for us. (Oh, btw, it was 7pm when I left VLC, and Elda is about 2 hours away in bus. So the commitment meant being out all night and catching a train the next morning to make it back in time for classes. Which happened)

So we arrived in Elda, and grabbed a kebab while admiring the festivities of the Moros y Cristianos festival that was going on: thousands of people dressed as Muslims, pirates, and centurions parading through the streets. That was quite a sight by itself, but it was not what called us to the town. Karioka (Which is a nickname for a guy from Rio de Raneiro. His real name is George) has some friends of many years who wanted to celebrate in their own manner. We met up with them in a bar, and the laughs ensued. The group was 40 years+, and we were the weirdest combination of people. One guy from Las Canarias, one from Brazil, one from McAllen, Texas, a 20-year-old from the US, one from Spain, and a hob-glob of friends who came and went like a swarm of giddy children.

After a few bars, where I was not permitted to buy anything, we headed to Pepe's warehouse. What were we doing there, I wondered... I soon found out, as a series of Brazilian drums were brought down from shelves and distributed to every able hand. Karioka had taught these guys how to play years back, and we were going to make our own parade to outdo the Moros and Cristianos. After about 30 minutes of practice, we hit the streets.

Our Brazilian conductor was so meticulous, ensuring each person was dead-on. The result: a fantastic melody of beats, whistles and yells, accompanied by a town-full of people ready to join in and dance around us. We went from street to street, plaza to plaza, drawing crowds and smiles. We played from 1am to 7:30am. I don't understand how it was possible. Here's a photo of what that did to my hand:

I'll soon post photos of the smiles, dancers, and insanity of it all.

And I made it back to class the next day?? Yupp. Nothing a little siesta, food, and frisbee can't fix. Man, that was a great night. I don't know how it happened, and don't know if it will ever happen again. Thank you God, thank you Spain.

The end of Capoeira

Tunes: The Revelator

Well folks, Capoeira is done for the semester. We had our last class Wednesday, and a "family dinner" last night. Our teacher always calls us his family, and we really experienced it last night. I think I might have said this in a previous blog, but it holds true: there's something about the bond among people who've killed themselves in workouts together. It's been the same in wrestling, football, and rugby. I can't explain that well enough, but I can show you a picture of the effects capoeira has had on my feet:



I think I'll continue to do this sport/dance when I return to Austin. We'll see though, since I always find a way to do too many physical activities, leaving no mental energy for studying (which is why I'm in Austin right now).

A bit of ramble this morning. Just enough time to sit down for a coffee, but not quite to break out my journal and Bible, so I figured I'd share my morning mood with you.

I'm curious as to what my life will be like upon my return. Any person I know here, I've met on this side of the Atlantic, so they don't truly have enough of a bearing on me to see where/how I've changed. I don't often have someone hold a mirror up to my face.

I feel more free, but also with an accompanying stability. I am a little less outspoken, but I feel that I express myself better than ever. Oh, time the revelator. We shall see how I emerge from this epic.

Sixty-nine cent cherries

Tunes: The Cinematic Orchestra, and other recently added songs

Been really enjoying my time recently. This morning, I woke, prepared breakfast, and drank coffee while diving into the word and my mind. It's been a battlefield recently, and I haven't been bored. I later grabbed a sheet and my backpack, hopped on my bike, and headed to the Viveros garden. Stopped at a fruit stand to get a cluster of cherries. I discovered a moth hiding in the pile, and commented how it adds más proteína.

Sunlight, birds, books, and cherries. All while spread out in the park. Finished the Screwtape Letters, and moved locations to read Peyote Tourists. Since then, I've been thinking about how it's possible to experience the most beautiful things without enjoying them, all because of an unhealthy heart. And conversely, how it's possible to experience the most simple things while enjoying them immensely with a healthy and steadfast heart.

Time for class

A view of yesterday's experience

Check out the photos I just posted.

Teeth marks left by biting watches

Tunes: The Black Keys

I had a great day today. My alarm was DeYarmond Edison, and I had enough time to sit around in the quiet of the morning before I made my way to class. Literature was the most engaging yet: we just read The Snows of Kilimanjaro, and we talked in depth about the existential core of the story. The whole class seemed to be on the edge of their seats, and the discussion went on well after class let out. We were tearing into the idea of the circular plot and the dreamed, yet unattained salvation. Oh, existentialism.

A good friend gave me her thesis to read, and I was captured by it for the rest of the day, reading it in my translation class and whenever I had a chance. Remember how I was talking about anxiety? Well, I went to the doc's today to get a heart monitor for 24-hrs. Gotta make sure my ticker's working properly. After that, I went with my fellow UT friend Becky to the City of Arts and Sciences to walk around and take pictures. I have to say, I think today had the best weather of Valencia I've experienced yet.

After a couple of hours, we walked back, stopped for my first-ever cup of mouth-watering horchata, and parted ways. I dropped into my faculty to say hey to some friends, then headed to the Viveros, which is a large park at the edge of my campus. I'm so glad I got to spend most this amazing day at such a tranquil place. I continued my reading and day-dreaming by a large bird cage, listening to their songs while reading about Julio and Lila. After a few hours (time was irrelevant), I wandered around the largest rose garden I've seen. They just fully bloomed last week, and I'm glad I had my camera.

I'm going to a friend's place now to eat dinner and watch a movie.

Goodbye

Ground beef

Tunes: O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack

Just about to go to bed. I'm hobbling around because my feat are like ground beef. Had capoeira today, and it was a fantastic class. Only thing is, I'm missing a good amount of skin from my feet now. We did work, that's for sure. Things are starting to click.

Our teacher is from Brazil, and has the most unintelligible Spanish I've ever heard. I could swear he doesn't even speak Spanish, and that he speaks to us in Portuguese. Anyway, he's a beast of a man. He's going to be a great grandfather one day, but I don't think he ages. He just gets more mighty. He calls me "barba," which is beard in Spanish.

Our class has been bonding quite a lot over these past months. We're planning on doing a BBQ on the beach before the semester's up, and I hope it happens. There's something about the bond formed with people you've sweated pounds with... and then there's something else about the bond formed with people you've FIGHT-DANCED with.

It's too late to be writing. I have class at 8am. I'll try to give you something good soon.

Old men, new teacher

Tunes: Rhymin and Stealin

My philosophy class got a new teacher last week--you know, the class with the old men. The old men and I have a growing a relationship. Each day, they speak to me a little more, and one even knows my name. It's like I'm surrounded by a bunch of fathers, but they really act like children. It's fun.

Well, since we got our new teacher, the class dynamic has changed greatly. Our new professor actually interacts with us, asking us questions, and searching for more than one-word responses. One of my old men friends normally throws out quick answers to some questions, and with the old teacher, never encountered any problems. Our new teacher responds with "why." A simple response, yes? Well, the first couple of times this happened, the old man looked like he was going to have a heart attack. It was as if he was never asked a question before/called out in front of the class.

It almost makes me sweat, watching him (sweat).

New prof is great. Now the class has depth.

Well hey there

Tunes: Iron & Wine

Sorry to all for not writing as often. I've been quite busy with school as exams approach, but that's not the main reason I've been so absent. I've been dealing with anxiety over things I can't control. It's been a struggle to live in the present and trust God with circumstances that are out of my hands. Day-by-day, He's been showing me how to do this, and I've been able to take part in some beautiful things that I could have missed out on.

Take yesterday, for example. I was in my room most of the day because I had quite a load of work, but was tinkering through it slowly, held back by a worrying mind. I finally laid all of it out, and plowed through what needed to be done. After that, I was able to go to the beach--however, as I arrived, so did the clouds. And the rain. But with a filled spirit, an uplifted heart, and some good friends, we decided to stay at the beach. Good choice.

Spaniards don't like bad weather. Almost all of my classmates haven't been to the beach once because it's "too cold." All of the Erasmus students go every day because most don't have beaches close to their homes normally. The rain hitting was quite a spectacle. There were screams, and a large wave of people flooding toward the metro stops. I had to hold back my laughter.

It was Nick, Allison, Caitlin, Julian, Will and me. We packed up all of our stuff (to keep it from getting soaked), and started hitting the volleyball around while laughing at the fleeing beach-goers. (Can I still call them beach-goers in this situation?) Caitlin and I walked barefoot to a restaurant to get some ice cream. When we returned, we decided to play paddle ball in the sand. Made up a sort of paddle ball / 4-square game combination.

Then, we started up a 3v3 game of volleyball. We were such fools the entire time. Whenever announcing the score, we would (try to) make up stupid rhymes. Our team (Nick, Caitlin, and I) lost both times, but I think we had more fun that way. Everything was a joke, and we had no decibel limit. Fun without the sun ftw.

At around 6, we all ran home to shower up and head to church. I love that place. They are a true family there, and we were immediately adopted. After a great message and many kisses, we went back to the girl's place to watch Dear John. Dear reader, don't bother. It was some good fellowship time, though. We know how to enjoy each other.

Bah. I have to get back to grading papers. Hasta pronto

A panoramic

San Sebastián weather is funny. Both days I was there, it was cloudy/rainy constantly, until 5pm, when the sun magically came out. Both days. Unfortunately, I climbed this castle hill before 5pm, so this picture has clouds. Imagine this picture, but at 5pm.

Munsters in San Sebastián

Been quite wiped recently, because I took a trip to San Sebastián this weekend. I went with two German and one American friends. Definitely one of the most beautiful places I've seen in Spain to date.

We went in an overnight bus, leaving from Valencia at 11pm, and arriving at our destination at 6am. (I'll avoid complaining about the bus ride) Upon arrival, we caught a cab to our hostel, where our Russian host allowed us to check in! Six hours before normal check-in. It was perfect--we had planned to find some bar to hang out in and drink coffee, but a bed for a much-needed nap was more than amazing.

The weather wasn't what we would have hoped for, as it was cloudy and raining off-and-on. However, it was unable to mask the beauty of San Sebastián. It is a city on the Northern Atlantic coast, surrounded by green mountains and boasting of surfer-worthy beaches. We spent our entire saturday walking around, climbing up a castle that overlooked La Concha beach, the city, an island with a quaint lighthouse, and more beautiful coast.

This city is quite different from Valencia. Being so close to France, it has a more european feel. The people seemed to be a bit more relaxed than the Valencianos. Well, to be honest, I'm not sure that is exactly it. It's the Basque country: a region that, much like Texas, values their independence. They seem to have their own way of doing things. I didn't spend enough time to really explore their culture for two reasons: I was only there for two days, and the city was full of Irish and French for a rugby match.

Speaking of rugby... I went to my first proper match. Totally unexpected. It just so happened that the semi-final match of the Heineken Cup was held in San Sebastián, due to the fact that neither Munster (Ireland) nor Biarritz (France) had a stadium large enough for the match. It was great. I'm not sure why, but on my way to the match, I felt the happiest I have in weeks. I think it had something to do with the fact that I was walking in the drizzling rain along a canal, surrounded by stunning buildings, and heading to something I've never experienced before.

Beer was sold by the liter, songs were song for every occasion, female and male, child and adult... everybody was exploding with excitement. Being surrounded by all of that made me sweat with desire to get out on that field. Sporting a red beard, and speaking English, I naturally cheered for Ireland. We lost, but it was a fantastic match. And another thing: after a rugby match, everyone's friends. Well, more or less. The Irish sure love a fight (I was told), but I didn't see anything break out.

I'm sorry, but I need to return to homework. Crazy thing, homework. It needs to be done.

My day

Up before the alarm, refused to snooze, an hour of quiet, ekg, gypsy caravan, body pump, quick class, truth injection, full stomach, much yelling, much sorting, the perfect song, and bed

The Lady with the Red Hair

Tunes: Kasa no Hone

I dedicate this blog to a lady who I see just about every time I go to the roof. She's stands somewhere under 5 feet tall, lives on the top floor, and always hangs her laundry on the lines on the roof. She has red hair, and a little chihuahua. The first few times I saw her, she would walk up with her laundry in a bucket and her dog sitting on top--the dog had a red cast on its front left paw. It would just sit next to her while she hung things up. Now, the dog's cast is gone, but it still sits next to her the entire time she does laundry.

A few weeks ago, she was walking out onto the roof while I was walking in, and I gave her quite a fright. I could hear her opening the door, but she had no idea I was up there. Today, she gave ME quite a fright. I went upstairs to hang laundry, pushed the elevator button to come up, and it came just like normal, but I almost walked right into this small lady coming out at me. Random timing with her pushing the up button and me pushing the call button.

Anyway, I figured she deserved a place in your hearts.

Rainy day conquered

Tunes: LCD Soundsystem

Yesterday, just like all days this past week, was rainy and exceptionally cold. And it was a Saturday! Bah. No worries. My friend Maria's mom came into town, and she decided to organize a mini-road trip. So Maria, her mother, Anja (the Germans), Jilliann, and I (the Americans) rented a Honda Fit and went North. We went into a cave system that is full of water. So how do they do tours, you ask? Via boat. We took a boat ride in caves. It was fantastic. What a perfect way to get out of the elements, by climbing into a boat and going underground. I don't have many pictures, because we weren't supposed to take any, but I did take some videos. I'll try to post one soon. It highlights the tiny passage-ways and horrible "cave music" that they played during the tour.

After that spot, we traveled to a small town to the West, walked around, visited an olive oil museum, and got lunch at a little bodega. We got bravas, two "chivitos" (sandwich with jamón, lomo, lettuce, and mayonase), and sangria. Finger-licking good. After lunch, we hopped back into our car to find a church that is built into a cave. You heard right. A church in a cave. It was amazing. I have some decent photos that I will paste soon. The drive up there was twisty, because we were in the mountainous regions, and very foggy. When we arrived, we saw the sign and some tour busses. After few minutes of stretching, we realized the building was right in front of us, but its white surface blended in with the thick fog. Walking into the church was awe-inspiring. From the outside, it looks like any other building. But when you step inside, you see the large, rock stairwell that leads down into the sanctuary. It's a legit cave. Everything inside was wet due to the constant dripping from the ceiling.
I never knew such a thing existed, and I'm so glad we discovered it. It wasn't on our list of things to see--we just stopped at a tourist info spot, and the lady recommended it to us. Definitely a gift.
Can you imagine going to mass in a cave?

Maria's mom is a hoot. I sat in the front while she drove, and she often leaned over and asked me a question or commented on something in German. I don't speak German. She knew that. But I generally understood what she was saying, and would casually respond in English. It was a fun game that continued throughout the entire trip.

Well, I actually have some work to do. Later

Two things

1) I love rainy days at French House.

2) Estoy super emocionado de fiestar con los Fryes en Junio.

Y ya está.

No more vacation!

Tunes: Soft Rock Star

Well, to the best of my knowledge, there are no more vacations until school is out. Most of my uni readers in the States finish in less than a month, and that must be exciting. I just used "uni" for university. Been spending too much time around this European English. Just learned last week that they say "takeaway" instead of "take-out." All I'm going to say, is the main Wikipedia article says "Take-out," and everything else redirects to that same page: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Take-out

Oh yeah, so solid block until exams. That's from today until June 4th, I believe? Shouldn't be too bad. I mean, I've been spoiled by Las Fallas, followed by Pascua, followed by this thing called "Reading Week." Reading week is the equivalent to the book fair in US elementary schools. All the English philology students read books, or something of the sort, and write a mini report. Everyone in the department mocks it, and everyone outside the department envies it.

This week, my underneath neighbors have been remodeling what seems to be their entire flat. I thought I knew something about remodeling, but apparently not. Hitting things really hard with hammers from 8am to 5pm every day is how it's done. I'm pretty impressed, though. That guy really gets after it.

Today's pretty chill--overcast, with the sun poking out from time to time, my plant slowly blooming, working on a philosophy paper, and a chocolate/peanut butter-covered banana is sitting in my freezer for later. I'm about to chat with an amazing friend on Skype, then talk to my UT advisor on Skype too. I love technology. Tonight, I plan on attending the reading of my English teacher's book that was just published.

I don't want to fall into any routines while I'm here. It's about the half-way point of my time in Spain, and I know there's plenty more for me to see.

Last night, I went to a friend's surprise party. We had a tea party, complete with very strong Irish tea, and many sweets. It was Marina's 23rd, and the entire party fit her. It was enjoyable to see how every detail, from the setting to the food to the people to the gifts, was perfectly fitted to Marina. Her friends know her well, and showed it to her last night.

Well, that's about it for now.

Italy pics

Posted my pics from Italy so everyone not on Facebook can see.

Trip to Sardinia

Tunes: Iron & Wine

First things first. I perfected my crepe recipe. A combination of not enough butter and the stupid addition of sugar/cinnamon to the batter caused my last batch to turn into a sort of thin American pancake. Not so good. But today’s are perfect, don’t worry. Only thing is, I believe I enjoy making them much more than eating them. After one of my ‘reeces’ crepes (peanut butter & nutella), I’m all full.

Oh yeah, I got back from Italy yesterday morning. Here’s a brief summary of my travels:
-Saturday: Arrive, tour all of Cagliari, wander, wander, great ravioli.
-Sunday: Easter mass at one of the churches by my hotel, reading in the train terminal while waiting for my train to Sassari. Late train, cancelled last leg, late bus, long bus ride, arrive in Sassari, missed connecting train to Alghero, wandered Sassari for hours looking for a cheap hotel, 0 luck, slept/froze in a stairwell of an apartment complex
-Monday: Early early up, coffee and quiet time/warm up time at a small bar, train to Alghero, wander around, make it to Sassari to check into hostel, wander on the amazing beach/rocks, exploring, made a Spanish friend, drinks and conversation and wandering around with him, pasta cooked on my dad’s stove.
Tuesday: Bus to Sassari, got lost in a stunning cemetery, train back to Cagliari, check into hostel, hang out with another new Spanish friend, met some German Christians, wandering the city/shops, awesome encounter with some locals, hanging at the hostel, bed.
Wednesday: Bus to Mare Pintau (the painted sea), enjoyed great weather, picked and ate prickly pear from the cliff-side cactus plants, waded in the sea, got blown away at the beauty.
Thursday: Since my plane was leaving at 6:30AM this morning, and there were no busses running that early, I slept in the airport.

So I feel a bit bad about giving such a summary, but the trip was really non-stop. You’ll have to ask me in person for a better description. However, there are some things that I really want to dive into.

One of the coolest things I found on the island was the graffiti. It was everywhere, and I really enjoyed finding the same artist’s work in multiple places. In Sassari, I found some of the pieces miles apart, by the same artist. In Cagliari, there were a bunch of these whale-like pieces (I didn’t have my camera out when I saw most of them). The entire city was covered with them. They are a bit awkward, and fun to stare at. Very enjoyable surprise—nothing in any of the websites I visited told me about this aspect of the culture. Kinda makes me want to make my own travel guides.

This trip was my first trial run of my dad’s alcohol stove. I had no problems with it in my carry-on luggage through the airport, and alcohol was easily obtained while on the island. Success. Light weight, quick setup, but I did have a few problems. Now, Dad, I noticed that on the bottom your stove, it said it boiled water with 2 ounces of alcohol in 23 minutes. Problem is, you did that test in your garage. 1) Doesn’t work so well in windy weather. 2) The fire goes out if the pot fully covers the stove (I recommend larger side-holes). 3) It took about 3 refills to boil water, but that’s mostly my fault. I didn’t have a lid for my cheap metal cup I cooked in. Besides that, it was great! You got many compliments from the other lightweight travelers I ran into at the hostels. It cooked ravioli, a sort of quiche dish, and pasta. Nom nom.

When I was waiting for my train from Sassari to Cagliari, I found my way over to the cemetery a few blocks away. I was stunned. It was a beautiful, solemn experience. Each grave reminded me more of life than death. Despite the tears of the people who came to pay their respects, a subtle smile was the overall feel of the cemetery. It was as if every grave had a person waiting to burst forth and join their Creator. I’ve been to cemeteries before, but never seen something as captivating as this one.

The Mare Pintau (the painted sea) is so named due to the seven colors that you can see in the water. It was quite a spectacle. I wasn’t in the main cove where the sea really came to life, but I drove past it and got a good look from the cliffs above. I was at the beach where the sea turtles lay their eggs. Unfortunately, they don’t start coming ashore until about June. One day. I was one of about five people on the entire beach, and it wasn’t small. I wandered around, let my feet sink in the sand, stared at the clear water, climbed all over the rocks, drew in the sand, and listened to a few of my favorite songs—some from my ipod, some from the waves and birds.

That’s about it for now. I have some reading and time with the Big man I’d like to do. My mom tells me that she’s been giving my blog out to many of her friends. If any of you would like to hear more about particular things, feel free to email me. jtwilliams@mail.utexas.edu

Quickie

Here's a photo I borrowed from my friend Dan. This is the breakfast we ate at the gas station I talked about. All for about $13. Thanks Dan.

I am in Spain

...and I feel free. I've been experimenting more with cooking, I've been seeking God about the wide open future I have ahead of me, I've been writing tunes on my rooftop, I've been going to capoeira classes, I did some bouldering today, I've been searching for new music, I'm going to Sardinia on Saturday...

Today was a pretty legit day. My touch screen phone doesn't touch, so I set my alarm on my computer. That way, I woke up to rockin music, and there was no way to snooze, so I was up 30 minutes earlier than normal. The early morning is usually my favorite time of the day. I don't know why I fight to avoid it so often. I made coffee and a toasted pbj, and ate at our small side table in the kitchen. Quite morning. Nothing moving too quickly. Tranquilo.

I had class from 9-10, then sat in a windowsill and got lost in a train of writing, then had class from 11-12, and went home. One episode of Lost (yeah, I got hooked), then to the roof to read and water Leon. Too windy up there, but besides my pages turning incessantly, it was great. About 74 degrees with a strong sun, and a wall that provided a refuge of shade when I needed it.

Did a bit of a workout, dropped by the chino store to get some medical tape, then went to our American exchange student Bible study. We're going through Acts, and it's awesome to see all of these students in such a life-changing season. I love diving into the truth with them.

Oh yeah, so I needed the medical tape for the huge blood blister on my big toe... thanks to my capoeira class last week. Had another one after the Bible study, and it was really fun. New instructor, met some people from before, and got a great/fun workout in. I need that stretch.

After the class, I hopped on over to the open air bouldering walls that are in the middle of the UPV campus. Anyone can climb, and it actually has potential. Too bad I left my gear at home... I met my friend Edgar there, and we climbed a bit there. Tape works for the toes, but it doesn't help with my heel hooks. That has to change.

Rush home, Mercadona for helado de chocolate y fresa, shower, then off to dinner at my friend Rita's place with my roommate Bea. Rita had a bunch of the people from Portland Ale House over, and it was a great time. Good wine, lots of tapas, a great pasta, and plenty of ice cream. I'm stuffed.

It's 1:52 AM, shouldn't you be in bed? Oh, I guess that's just my time.

Love, peace, chicken grease.

Straw mats, cloudy naps

Tunes: La Blogotheque

I went to my classes, then came home to eat lunch, do some work, read, etc. I stopped at Mercadona to pick up some pan de pueblo for my bocadillo. This bread is so fantastic.

Here's today's sammich run-through: take the delicious bread, slice it, and place it in the oven. While the bread is toasting, slice up one tomato, get some fresh spinach, a pile of ham, and 5 large slices of chorizo. By the time all ingredients are ready, the bread should be perfect. Remove deliciously toasted bread, add tomatoes, then layer chorizo and ham. Then pile as much spinach on as possible, and slam the top half of the sammich on to hold it all together. Using two hands, carry your plate and your straw mat to the roof of your building. "I thank You God for this day most amazing [sammich]," then commence eating. Last and most important step: fall asleep to the slight wind and soft sunlight filtered by the clouds.

Great nap.

Everything's been pretty relaxed since Fallas. I think the city is detoxing right now. I'm doing quite well, since I had a perfect balance of Morocco peace and Fallas madness. I'm looking forward to Portland's tonight, Foster's Friday, and a youth meeting on Saturday to share about Morocco.

Well, I was talkative at the beginning, but I'm gonna go now.

:)

Sunday Breakfast

Tunes: "Is This Love" by Bob Marley

I'm wearing my Moroccan robe and an apron, because the robe is the most comfortable thing I've ever worn, and I didn't want to dirty it while cooking eggs, chorizo, coffee, and toast.

I figured I'd let you know a bit about my travels to Morocco (or just something about what's been going on these past two weeks, for that matter). I flew into Casablanca, expecting to hop onto a train, but my friend unexpectedly caught me at the airport. Great surprise, because I don't speak Arabic or French to navigate my way around this North-African country. ("my friend" has been substituted for all names for security purposes)

We hopped into his gorgeous '97 2.5 liter Land Rover, and hit the road. This machine will come up in the future, so make note of it. 22 miles/gallon, and enough power to crawl over a building. Anyway, we stopped at a gas station for some diesel and food. To my surprise, the gas stations have some of the best restaurants around. We had coffee, juice, and these extremely fattening moroccan pancakes. Kinda like naan, but loaded with oil and butter, and when you get it, you add more butter and honey.

My heart was jumping all over the place when we drove to my friend's place. The hillsides of wheat, the horrible traffic with cars and mopeds weaving like maniacs, the mule-drawn carts, the people selling curdled milk, and the friends walking hand-in-hand. Everything was so green because the rainy season had just finished. Such a beautiful countryside.

I stayed with my friend, his wife, and their cutetastic girls. I had a home. Not sure where to go from here with my story-telling, but here are some highlights:

A photographer, and close friend of my hosts, came to photograph my friend's surfing business. Since the waves were crap, we went to the mountains south of Marrakech. We went hours up into the mountains, passing village after village built on the side of the mountains. Down below, there was terraced wheat farming leading down to a crystal-clear mountain runoff river. I had trouble believing everything that I saw. Such green as I've never seen.

The people were different, because they were Berbers. They had different faces, different eyes--I don't think they've ever seen a blonde-haired blue-eyed guy before. Talk about unreached people groups... Check out some of my pictures.

On the way home, we stopped in Marrakech to check out their huge market. Insanity. The beginning was great, because I got two bags of the most delicious (I mean, MOST delicious) dates and apricots. As we walked around, we noticed the incessant wave of people trying to get you to come into their shop, eat their food, drink their juice... there were people who would throw monkeys or snakes on you, then charge you money to take a picture. I myself was attacked by a girl who put henna onto my hand without me asking.

My photographer friend paid some money to take shots of the snake charmers who were charging an arm and a leg to photograph their cobras. We wandered around looking for shoes with Michelin tire soles, but had no luck. (they last forever). We watched two young boys box in the plaza, while some older men were whoring out the performance to the onlookers. Not so hot. Definitely don't want to head back to that part of town.

We had some more amazing gas station food that night (oh yeah, and that morning, we had the best omelets, OJ, coffee, and moroccan pancakes for three people, for about $12), and then headed home. Night driving in Morocco. Risky.

On my last day, I got to go to the local food market, which was only Moroccans. Much better then Marrakech. It was still close to insanity with the rush of people, but we didn't have any problems with people. I so enjoyed watching the busyness of it all. Strawberries were $.25/pound, an entire large bag (~25lbs) of vegetables was less than $4, the chicken was fresh (you pick it, they kill it, skin it, and clean it), the treats were tasty... It was another world. I can't quite explain everything in a sitting, so you'll have to have a coffee with me someday to unload my mind.

I've left out so many things, because there are so many things to be told. And the small things left out were some of the most impactful. Just hear me when I say my trip to Morocco was one of the most amazing experiences I've had.

I'll eventually post something about the last days of Fallas, and what I've been up to.

Time for my book and journal

New ones

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jtysonwilliams/

Haha

Tunes: Shuffle.

Man, so much has been going on to keep everyone posted. I'm in Valencia, in the peak of Las Fallas, and I just got back from Morocco, with many stories to tell. Where the hell do I start??

Oh yeah, so my camera is finally uploading pics, so I'll (hopefully) have them up tonight.



...


...

Yeah, I started this blog about 2 hours ago and got distracted. Better luck next time.

"No soy de Alemania"

Tunes: Brandi Carlile

Today's events:
1) Good breakfast
2) Given a ton of papers to correct
3) Bought Tickets for the game against Germany on Thursday
4) Mascletá
5) Lunch
5) Back to school to read
6) Class
7) TBD

Un cuento: Okay, so I went to the stadium to buy fútbol tickets with my german friend Maria. We needed to buy 12 tickets, for us and our friends. The game is Valencia CF against Werder Bremen (Germany). Apparently, they won't sell tickets to Germans until Thursday, because they want them in a specific section. They don't want fights breaking out between fans mixed together.

So Maria and I are both blonde-haired and blue-eyed. She is from Germany, but she is officially here for school. I'm from Texas, but I look like a German. We both walked up to the booth, and tried to buy tickets. They guy wouldn't sell them to us because he said we have to wait until Thursday (with all the other Germans). After many attempts to tell him that we're students here, he just laughed at us. He was convinced we were from Germany (well, Maria was, but she doesn't like Werder Bremen).

I insisted I was american, and told him I was from Texas. He still didn't believe me. Finally, I pulled out my Texas driver's license, and pressed it up against the window. "I'm from Texas."

Immediately, he stopped laughing and consented. My ribs almost exploded from laughter. I can't believe that worked. I felt like I had two six-shooters, and pulled my coat back to reveal them. That feeling was enhanced by the fact that I was wearing my belt buckle made by my Uncle Frank. (Big, gold, cowboy, crosses, and spurs)

After apologizing, the man in the window told me he'd been to Dallas before, and said that I look like Dirk Nowitzki. Never head that before, but I'd like to think I'm slightly more attractive than him.

We have tickets! Definitely need to buy a Valencia CF scarf so others don't think that Dirk is going to get angry and start a riot in the Valencia section.

Good times

Warm Bread

Today is the second day I've been blessed with a freshly-baked baguette. I needed some sustenance before heading to the library, so I hopped into Mercadona for some nomnoms... score. You can really hear the bread sing.

Yes, library. Need to turn in a translation assignment by tonight, and it's proving to be quite difficult. Good thing I have Lykke Li and KVRX to keep me company, and friends to help me with my childish syntax.

I'll be in Morocco in 6 days.

More and more rain

"Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your heart before him;
God is a refuge for us. Selah"

Too many status updates

Tunes: Billie Holiday

There have been too many small things that I've wanted to tell you about, but I was blocked by wanting to write a whole lot and not having the time. I'll settle this matter by giving brief descriptions, in my favorite format (bullets), and leaving most up to your imagination.

-There are 4 old men, all of whom could be someone's high school principal, in my philosophy class. I've been sitting closer and closer to them each day, and now they talk to me a bit. Or rather, they talk about me, and talk about my oddities. I walked into class without a jacket, and one pinched my skin, said something about me not being cold, then made a comment about me using my computer, and they had a little discussion. They spoke in valenciano, so I didn't understand all of it. They all smoke small cigars in the streets.

-I love drinking oranges. Josep's dad sent me home with a huge bag of oranges for juice, and I'm drinking the equivalent to XXXXtra pulp, if that exists.

-I just booked a ticket to Cagliari, Italy for the week of Easter. 46 euros via plane, and I'm going to couch surf. ^_^

-I'm about to walk to the port, and take advantage of the rain. There's a small bar with big windows, and I'm going to get a coffee and read.

-Today, I received a package from my family full of easter candy, 2 SKIPPY JARS, some photos, ink refills for the best pen in the world, my led moo-ing cow, much needed vitamins, a garlic press?, some gum, and a SICK neck warmer made by Shannon. I LOVE YOU GUYS. All of the candy (except the bunny) is gone.

-While waiting to pick up my package at the post office, a leashed dog came up to me and an older lady sitting next to me. The owner apologized, but the lady and I said it's fine and began to pet him. After the man left, a few surrounding people and I had a conversation about how much we love animals.

-I've had a smile most of the day.

-I had the first real language difficulty today, when trying to print something out at school. I swear, this guy had cotton balls in his mouth.

-Billie Holiday is good

-RIP William

-Working on some translation stuff for my class... really difficult, but it's going to help a lot.

-Looks like I'm going to start teaching Flor's little brother some English! That'll be fun. He's a rowdy kid, and I need some of that non-stop energy around me from time to time.

Bye

iPhoto

iPhoto is giving me some mess, and it won't let me upload my pics. Bear with me.

Mercadona

Mercadona is Valencia's equivalent to HEB. They have their own brand of products, just as HEB has Hill Country Faire. Mercadona's brand is called Hacendado. I think the stuff's pretty good. My roommate calls it "hace daño."

Hehe

It's about time I let people know what's up

Tunes: Angel. From the Abbey Road Session. Solid tune.

I can't make too many excuses, but I've been more or less out of internet for a few days.

Today is the first day of March, marking the beginning of FALLAS! Google search Las Fallas, and you'll get a slight grasp on what it is here. Basically, for the whole month, there will be a ton of fireworks, lots of food, too many people, and lots of burning things. There will be a mascletá every day. In fact, I'm going to one right after posting this email. I'll try to get a good video.

I went to Sueca this weekend, and had a great time. My friend Josep (pronounced geeusep) had me at his place: very nice flat near the center of the town. Saturday night, we went to see a movie with some classmates, then went to a local discotec for some drinks/dancing. Sunday was awesome. Woke up, and had breakfast with his family. We talked about a variety of things over freshly-squeezed oj, strong coffee, croissants, traditional pumpkin buñelos, and croissaunts.

Tiny highlight of the morning: standing on his balcony, hearing the central church's bells sing, and watching two men struggle and argue while unloading a mattress from a truck.

After breakfast, Josep and I went for about a 3-hour walk around Sueca. He and his father go on walks around the town every Sunday evening, and Josep showed me all of his childhood favorite spots. I fell in love with all of the architecture. And, as some of you know, I can never keep my hands off of things. I wanted to touch every ornate, large door knocker on the immaculate doors. At one place, I accidentally let the knocker fall, and an old lady came out. I tried so hard to get a picture of her, but she wouldn't give into my pleading. Let me try to sketch it for you:
The door was about 12-feet tall, with two heart-shaped knockers (will post a picture). The lady who came out had completely white hair, a blue apron, and a nervously curious smile on. She was a child compared to the door she stood beside, and she seemed to fit so well into the scene. It was great.

I have some other pictures of various sites.

We came home for lunch, and boy was it a feast. We had bread, a salad, cockles, black wine, and chicken & pork paella. For dessert, we had coffee/tea, a very large mocha tarta, pineapple slices, and ice cream. It just kept on coming. Lunch lasted for about 3 hours.

Josep's family was so kind and generous. His uncle, aunt, and cousins came over to talk with me, and they invited me to go traveling to Galicia with them during Easter. Not sure if I'll go, but it was very sweet. After very much talking, I had to leave to get home! I had a ton of homework, and had to make it to a church service. They wanted me to stay another night, so I had to really work to leave. That's the kind of family I like.

TIME TO RUN. Gotta lose my hearing at the mascletá.

Tunes: The Decemberists

This city can change drastically on game day. My friends always joke about how you can never park anywhere illegally, because you’ll get a ticket within 5 minutes; however, on game day, people park on sidewalks, in flowerbeds, hugged up against dumpsters, and behind other people, blocking them in.

This was last night. Also, the city was FULL of police officers, and each one had a riot helmet and a baton hanging from their belts. They don’t mean to mess around. Don’t worry Andrew, I’ll get my chance.

I went with my friend Morten, a guy from the hostel, to a bar close to the stadium for their big screen and 3quintos/1euro deal. Really festive night--it was great to get some decent man time in.

Well, not too much going on over here. It's a beautiful day, so I'm probably going to walk around the beach. Tomorrow, I'm going to Sueca to stay with some new friends. I don't know quite what to expect, but that's the fun of it. In a few weeks, they want to go camp in the mountains and watch the stars. THAT's my kind of thing. Super friendly people. From the first time I sat down with them, they made me feel at home.

And yeah, I'm hanging with the "frikis" aka the nerds. Super genial.

To today,

Josh

Healthy

Tunes: Crowder

Man, that was a crazy 24+ hours. Got sick Tuesday, was in class and felt like my stomach was going to explode, so I went outside to lay in the sun. After a few hours of almost-napping, I felt completely drained of energy, but I had to go to a class. So, I tanked up on water and Lipton tea, and struggled through class. Success. I was burning up. So I went home, bought some medicine, watched a movie, then fell asleep by 7:30PM.

It's crazy what one's mind can do in such a state. I woke up a few times in the night, took some more meds, then went back to sleep. After about 15 hours in bed, I woke up and felt completely better (more or less). No more fever, a bit of strength, and an appetite. My fever had to have been above 100º Tuesday night, and I was completely better the next day.

That little episode was quite humbling to me. My mom often tells me that I have an invincibility complex, which I can't really argue. I often see dangers/obstacles in life, but they are never the major factors in decision-making. My short bout of sickness, combined with many days of new experiences here in Spain has just pointed me back towards the extreme might of God. I remember waking up in the middle of the night, and praying "God, I am completely helpless. I'm at your will. Please bring me to health."

I've climbed cliffs, played the most dangerous sports, spent days in the elements with my supplies on my back, canoed in dangerous rapids, spent at least a few months-worth of time traveling in cars and planes, and probably will continue my life in the same manner. However, none of that proves anything. My life can be snuffed overnight.

I've spent the last 5 days reading all of the specifics in Exodus & Leviticus about how God wanted his ark and such built, how to consecrate his people, and how to make everything holy, etc. Man, that got boring after some time... but everything kept layering and layering a depiction of the perfection of God. In order to experience the presence of God, Moses had to do this, and that, and that, and that, rinse, repeat... Humbling. We are not worthy of the greatness of God.

Enter the gospel. The good news. Motivated by love, God sent his son to make it possible for us to be in His presence. That just makes the greatness of God even larger, and me so much smaller.

Hell, I know this sounds strange to many people, but because I experience God in such a way, and trust him, it gives me so much joy. God is bolstering my depiction of him. He's refining it to be closer to who he really is... and he's doing it every day. Because my eyes are being opened to this, it makes the difficulties of life pale in comparison (just like that Rob Bell video from earlier). I get to tap into the most perfect being, and kick it with him.

Now, let's keep it on that track. That'll be nice.

My pants are beginning to wear in the crotch. All that biking... really makes me sad. This pair just started to become on of my favorites... and this is the second pair to do that this year.

I'm in the library, listening to some good tunes, and eating my smuggled ham sammich. About to read, and then class at 5.

Ciao

Coffee talk

About to head into my philosophy class. Just wanted to throw down two notes I wanted to share

-Yesterday, in my US lit class, our teacher was trying to explain how humans need love, physical contact, and words of affirmation and such as an essential part of child development. We're reading The Bluest Eye (a very tragic story of an unfortunate girl who has no love). Our teacher made us hold hands with our neighbor, look into their eyes, and say (loudly) "Qué guapo/a eres, ¡coño!" It was hilarious. She encouraged hugs, kisses, but made sure no clothing came off (hah). Our teacher is a riot. Every day, she has something shocking to say/do.

-Okay, so there's a lady who works at my faculty's cafetería, who's gotten used to me ordering a café americano every time I come. Now, before I can even get up to the register, she yells ¡Americano! This morning, she yelled it as soon as I walked into the door. By chance, she was working in the psychology faculty's cafetería a few hours later. So, of course, I was thrown for a surprise when I was in a different building, and the same lady was yelling americano at me. I think it's hilarious. I really enjoy the many random ways I connect with people. I hope that relationship will grow past one word.

My eyes are heavy. I couldn't go to bed, because I was sucked into watching The Usual Suspects. I just saw it about a month ago, but Kevin Spacey wouldn't let me go to sleep. Oh well, great film.

My first motion picture

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jtysonwilliams/4379647207/

More

She's still singing and whistling. She knows every lyric to every song. I think this is going to be my way to get a smile when I really need one.

I Want You (She's So Heavy)

I just played the above song, and upon pushing play, Bea started to sing and pound on the wall. I almost died laughing. She has Beatles posters ALL over her room, Beatles coffee cups, Beatles clothing... Now she's walking around the house humming along and singing. So great.

} I wanted to post what I had written for yesterday (Saturday)

I went to see the Valencian Firebats, Valencia’s American football team, play today. It was very fun. I burst out laughing in joy when I got my first glance of helmet and shoulder pads. Who’da thunk that could be so enjoyable? The whole time I was there, I was entertained. The Firebats destroyed their competition, with 40-0 at half time. There was a group of English-speakers who basically set up camp in the stands with bags and bags of food, lots of beer, a few curious dogs, and a homemade stove to keep warm.

Watching the team played reminded me of middle school or freshman football. Even though the players were 20+ years old, when I looked at them, I saw children. Their big smiles, the way they celebrated… everything. Also, the skill level was at about that level too.

} Back to the present. My hands are cold, and my stomach is full. Bea is still singing. Oh, the little things in life. The little things in my life. I really liked this weekend. That's about it. I'm putting it in my pocket.

Class tomorrow. Happy Birthday, sister.

<3
Josh

Friends and pastries

Tunes: Something that's perfect for an 80's aerobics class.

I think I'm going to greatly miss the pastries here. I'm really surprised at how much I haven't been talking about all the food I've been eating. I'm not sure if I've written about this yet, but there is a pastry called a "Napolitana dulce." It's the same pastry dough as a croissant, but it's shaped like a large hot pocket. It's filled with super creamy chocolate, and topped with honey and chocolate sprinkles.

There's a bakery called El Horno de Los Borachos, literally translated as the oven of the drunks, that is only open from about midnight to about 7am. There are many such places. Well basically, now whenever I'm about to go to bed, I crave a napolitana dulce. My mouth is watering right now. I don't understand why, because just before writing this entry, I licked my fingers from the napolitana that I just finished. Damn. So good.

God is answering my prayers. I've been quite lonely, but I'm making some friends. Today, the very talkative guy in my English class (the one who only talked in English. Josep.) invited me to come sit with him and his friends. We talked from about 3pm to 6pm. I got to practice my spanish, learn some catalán, talk about Walker Texas Ranger/Family Guy/Star Wars/other pop-culture, laugh it up, and bond with some locals. I think this is a group I can kick it with

I was considering traveling to Alicante this weekend, because I had nothing else to do. However, Josep and his friends invited me to their town this weekend to hang and see EL HOMBRE LOBO aka THE MAN WOLF. Hehe. I'm excited to see what this town is like. I'm excited to see what the more rural Spanish life is like.

I'm in my school's café. I like being here. Many people, cheap and delicious coffee, cheap and different sandwiches (I want to try each one), and a really funktastic radio station. It plays old, poppy American music, that's really catchy. I find myself bobbing my head... The lady sitting behind me has been humming for the past 20 minutes.

I met t Ukrainian lady who works at the café. She's very sweet, and I love listening to her accent. She has a daughter who lives in Chicago (Alyx!). She's visited Valencia before, and said she loves Chicago way more than this town. Well, I guess that means I need to pass through the windy city.

I'm reading and eavesdropping on a conversation between a Spanish girl and an American girl. They're mocking different English accents.

Back to my book(s), then to bike home in the rain,

Josh

It's looking like a beautiful day

Tunes: But, of course

I think there have been rumors going around, so I wanted to clear things up about yesterday. Yes, it’s true: I have new pants. Charcoal, close-fitting, and on discount from 50Euros down to 14.95Euros. I couldn’t resist such discounts. Also, I was immediately taken by the amazing salesmanship of the man working there. I asked him what size I needed, he took a glance at my waist, and responded: 32. Damn. He’s good. He almost talked me into some snazzy blue sneakers, but alas, they didn’t have size 47.

I quite enjoyed going to the store. It’s about a mile away, and I hadn’t gotten any exercise in, so I ran. It was frigid outside, so I wore my smartwool, running shorts, another shirt, and a cap. I believe I looked goofy.

While stepping out of my door, “One Day Like This” by Elbow came on my ipod… perfect.
"So throw those curtains wide!
One day like this a year'd see me right!"
About it being frigid--it was probably about 40º, dark skies, and raining. One might say, that song doesn't seem too fitting.

I think that day was another landmark. I felt free. I raced a cyclist, and leaped over puddles. I dodged people and smiled at prolonged looks. Bravo to our Lord for finding strange ways to display himself.

A Short

I think I'm going to try every type of juice they have in the stores. It's cheap, and there are so many flavors to choose from. This week: Mango. Nomnom

Speaking of Nomnom, these two video segments were dear to me today:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35bVnpVwon4&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vXU6xd9G-I

Always love me some Job

Rain and rain

Tunes: My own

I'm in a musical mood, and I don't have much to do today. So, I mandate: skip-in-rain-read-and-play-music day.

One of my Spanish classmates made fun of me today, saying I look like I'm ready to hike in the mountains. I'm okay with that--while everyone else is running around with their non-waterproof jackets, I'm rocking my eyesore of a rain jacket, my Merrell shoes, and my Chrome backpack. Btw, my backpack has been treating me well. Perfect on the shoulders and back, and keeps my stuff secure. Never again will I have to worry about getting my compute wet.

I finally put my family photos on the wall behind my desk, so I have love staring down at me. One step closer to home.

^_^

Micro Brewery

Tunes: John Mayer Trio & Gnarls Barkley

Just wanted to drop a few quirky shorts I had scribbled down. Friday, when I was in the school's café, the ladies who worked there sang happy birthday to one of the workers. Afterwards, they took birthday shots. School café.

I keep seeing all of these old dogs around. Even if this dog walks as if he has four wooden legs, people walk them all over town.

I talked to this Spanish student after my translation class on Friday. He's quite a character. No matter how much I tried, he wouldn't talk to me in Spanish. He wanted to get as much English practice as he could have. I look forward to future conversations with him. He always has a big smile on, and talks and talks and talks.

I've noticed something here. So, you know when you walk into a public bathroom, and someone really brought some destruction? Well, the few times I've caught wind of it, it smells completely different. It smells almost like sulfur. I don't know--just some immature side note.

I went to a bar called Portland Ale House with a friend from church today. American place with a ton of English speakers. The owner came here with the dream to provide Valencia with damn good beer (most of what I've found is only half decent). After 4 years of paperwork, he will be coming out with 3 of his microbrews in a few weeks. Every Wednesday, there's a cultural exchange where Spanish people come to talk to native English speakers. If you're a native, you get a coupon for 4 free beers. It looks as if I've found my little corner.

That's about it for today. Nothing profound, just a a few moleskine notes.

It's officially Valentines day over here! My love goes out to you,

T

Good Will Hunting

Tunes: [ ] by Bon Iver w/ Sarah Siskind

Just earlier, I was thinking about what sort of character I would be if I were to live in a co-op here. If French House was in Spain, which type of foreigner would I be? Kind of a fun thing to consider. I often walk without a shirt off, and since it’s been cold I’ve been lugging my large blanket around with me. My hair is getting longer, but I don’t know a good place to get it cut and I don’t enjoy using product, so I sometimes wear a beanie to fix my bed hair. (I’ll eventually cave) I eat peanut butter often, I drink water from the tap, and I battle to improve my Spanish by practicing on my roommates every chance I get.

I'm in (almost) full swing with classes. The school system here is pretty backwards compared to ours. You go to a bunch of different classes, and then you pick which ones you like the most, and then you register for them weeks later. Not how I like to do things, so it's a good stretch.

I went to my first English literature class (I need my E316K credit). I came a bit early (which nobody does), and I sat in the right side of the class room. One-by-one, everyone filed in, but they all sat on the left side. Apparently, that's the side the teacher uses. So the teacher walked in, saw me, and asked me if I was new. Yes. Erasmus? Yes. From where? The United States. She flipped! "WE HAVE A NATIVE!!!" she screamed multiple times.
She made me come to the front of the class, and asked me multiple questions, tried to embarrass me, and had the students ask me questions too. I think that took up about half of our class time. Unfortunately, I was going to her other English lit course as well, and she did the same thing there too.

What a first class, eh?

Anyway, lots of smiles over here. I believe things are falling into place, and it's bringing me joy.

Catch you guys later. I have places to be, things to do. About damn time.

I'm Lazy

Really lazy. And tired. So I'm going to give you an outline. Hopefully, I'll give you a better entry tomorrow.

-I went to this café called Zakata. They serve dark chocolate with their coffee. I now like dark chocolate.

-I signed my lease. It took 30 minutes for my roommates to argue with the landlord about a broken window cover. Herein lies Bea's description of Spain's work ethic.

-America's Cup kicked off on Sunday with a spectacular fireworks show. These Valencians sure know how to do fireworks! I have a video...

-I finally had my orientation today, and went to my first class! Looks like I'm going to be a teacher's assistant for two English classes.

-The elevators in this country don't have a close door button.

-I stepped in poop today, and two days ago. Mierda!

-The cafés on campus serve beer on tap.

-I need to do laundry tomorrow.

mkthanksbye!

Tengo tos

A bit under the weather, so I've been resting most of the day. The day stretched on, as I was without sun but with tissues. However, this day has turned out to be one of my favorites, thanks to small adventures, experimental cooking, and great film.

The adventure: I hope I haven't led you to think that there is some sort of magical adventure that I went on. Or maybe that is closer to the truth than I think. Every outing is an experience. I needed some medicine, so I wandered to a few locations where I thought there was a pharmacy. A man taking the same path as I to avoid a family taking all of the sidewalk, a little unleashed dog that ran ahead (only to be scared by very large men walking by), sounds of a private party in a closed pizza shop, and old men sitting around a table, playing poker with coffee beans as chips.

The cooking: I made some elbow pasta, and topped it with a sauce that sounded delicious. Cooked some freshly-diced garlic in olive oil, then added a can of tomato paste. Added pepper, green onions, a bit of ham, and more garlic (can never get enough). With a corner of a baguette, it turned out to be quite a feast.

The film: The Lives of Others. A german film about an official who gets involved with the people he's supposed to be keeping tabs on. I won't say any more than that, because you must watch it. (That means I highly recommend it. Highly.)

Well, back to tissues and John Galt's speech. Great way to enter into dreamland.

The footsies above

So aside from living at Jester for my freshman year, this is my first time living in a place with people above and below me. It's an interesting thing, being aware of the ruckus of my neighbors. I know that there is at least one child above me, because I occasionally hear a light and quick poom poom, poom poom. And usually, the mother wakes me around 9am with her push-vacuum cleaner. Perhaps it's the novelty of it all, but I rather enjoy the creaks and clamors. I wonder if my neighbors are aware of us in the same manner.

Today, I made two more inches of progress with my course registration. Basically, that means that I'm going to be somewhat okay with missing a few days because some courses have already started. What kind of school system is this?? Oh well. As I was returning home, two Polish girls, Monika and Ola, stopped me because they had no idea what to do for registering. I showed them what I did, and told them about how much I don't know, and we ended up walking to the historical center of town for a bite to eat. They asked if I was from California.

I parted with them to catch up with a bunch of hostel friends & new friends at the beach. Still nippy, but warm enough to wear a tank top. I think I got a good hour of sun, so that should boost my vitamin E levels. It was fun flopping around and attempting to play soccer, and then playing volleyball with a ball that nearly bruised all of us. Mediterranean: until we meet again.

Update on internal journey: "And to love [God] with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbors as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices." Mark 12:33 I'm positive that almost everyone is struggling with this concept. It's been sitting in my lap most of my life. He wants my trust, not my works; my broken and contrite heart, not my sacrifices; my faith. It's much more that doing. It's loving, submitting, and trusting that He will meet my needs and satisfy me with his steadfast love.

Goooooooaaaaal

Just went to my first soccer game here in Spain. It was Giacomo's team against some other club team. I think I was the only spectator. Probably because the game was at 10:30PM. I really enjoyed myself. Brisk night, lots of movement, and one goal scored--only, the goal was scored against Giacomo's team. Pobrecito. Apparently it was his fault. I think I heard the players shout "vale" about 300 times.

Today was really great. I made some headway on finding classes, and I got to talk to some very good friends. Even this far away, I'm getting some great truth and wisdom from my loved ones. I feel cared for, really.

Two things: One, I'm going to the beach tomorrow to play beach volleyball. I'm very excited, because it's supposed to be somewhat warm. Two, I had a pizza today, and it was topped with jamón serrano. I don't know why that isn't a staple in the US. It's probably the most delicious meat I've ever had. Also, it was one of those store-bought pizzas, and it was one of the best I've had. And trust me, I've had good pizza.

Two more things: One, happy birthday Ingrid. I can't express how much I enjoy watching your video blogs. Two, I've been writing more. Progress.

G'night

Rainy Day

Tunes: For You & Fix You by Coldplay

I've been motivated by reading a friend's blog to open up a bit more. I can honestly say that the closest friend I have here is God. Such a bold statement, isn't it? This is a difficult thing to say, because I wouldn't even say to myself that I let him be close to me. I read so many statements of how God wants intimacy with me, but when I can't hold it in my hand, it seems to flutter out of my grasp. God has been giving me this opportunity to 'lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and run with endurance.'

I have a great task in front of me: embrace this time for personal growth and learning. Yes, I am in a breathtaking city, but I sometimes find myself seeing a spectacle, and wishing that I could appreciate it more. It's as if all of the drastic changes in my life recently have left me with a boundaries on my heart.

As I have been reading in Matthew & Mark, almost every time Jesus heals someone, he makes a note that he did it because of their faith. Faith first, healing after. That's a scary thing to trust.

I have been keeping a count of the number of times I find "steadfast love" in Psalm. The count is getting pretty high. You see, I believe with my mind, that this is who God. It makes sense. However, I don't think my heart has fully grasped on. This is why I have had so much difficulty recently. This experience of being abroad has put a magnifying glass over my life.

Back to the whole trust thing... I think it's coming, but it's taking quite some time. Time that I am not comfortable with, and change that I don't understand. I have seen some progress with my heart. Yesterday, for the first time, I wrote a poem about God. I've thought about doing it before, but nothing of that sort has left me through the tip of my pen.

I thought about apologizing for the seemingly debbie downer-esque entry, but I find that it's only fitting and proper. You have seen the pictures and landmarks of my exterior. These are the pictures and landmarks of my interior.

Chest out, eyes looking up

Jackpot & People

Tunes: The Decemberists' album Picaresque

I went on a long walk today, and wound up in a big shopping mall. I didn't bring much clothing, because I wanted to only have one suitcase. SO, I wandered and wandered until I found some spamtastic deals. T-shirts. Nice ones. 1.99 euros each. That's $3/per t-shirt. Gift from God? I submit, yes.

I'm really enjoying my walks. If I wanted, I could take a different street every time I go out. Always different people, different styles, different buildings, and different parks. I'm finding beauty in may different ways here. One of my favorite things has been seeing the old man friends walking slowly together and talking up a slurred storm. I think I saw 3 such pairs today. They move at their own pace, and stand to me as candy for my soul. I think I might start taking pictures of them.

Some other things that have been noteworthy are the big, old doors, a younger man tossing the ball for his two dogs, a park playground that was overflowing with people, another park that had so many pigeons that you couldn't hear the outside world, and the sandwich I made for lunch. I challenge you, reader: This week, walk with your eyes up, and heart open. Wander too much, and don't pay attention to your gait. See what happens. See what your Father will show you.

It's 1:09AM here. Early night. Tomorrow, I plan to get some sort of course schedule banged out. Vamos a ver.

Blankets and Full Stomachs

We celebrated Mateo going away last night with 3 lasagnas, many new wines, and lots of old punk rock music. I know, you're like 'did he say punk rock?' Yeah, I said punk rock. Apparently Giacomo really likes old punk rock and ska music, so he blasted our ears with it for quite some time. Back to the food: I made guacamole because only one person had ever tried it. Apparently, it was "de puta madre," and that means "good."

I'm really just waiting around right now, until school starts. Yesterday consisted of eating, reading, grocery shopping, reading, getting the Spanish version of hot chocolate (very good), reading, working out, making guac, then Mateo's dinner. Today, I'm not sure what I'll do. I want to find the campus gym.

Oh yeah, when I came into my room last night, there was an extra blanket on my bed from Bea, that said "Para que no tengas frío." She's so sweet--we don't have a heater, and I've been sleeping with one sheet two small blankets, and a sleeping bag. Needless to say, I slept in a warm bed with a warm heart.


G'day

Vale

Tunes: ZzzZzz

Today, I went to the beach. There have been many times that I felt closed off, due to language barriers or lack of companionship, but today I experienced freedom. It was 55ºF, so definitely not swimming temperature, but perfect for a jacket, scarf, rolled pants, and sandy feet. I must've walked for quite some time, because I listened to the waves for a long spell, then a 45-minute sermon by John Lynch, then two of my favorite albums (Aha Shake Heartbreak & Fever to Tell).

I didn't have anywhere to be, anyone to see, or anyone to watch. Today was a gift from God. This sort of solitude is quite amazing. I feel like my eyes have been opened to seeing the opportunity that it contains. I take today, and put it in my pocket.

I'm about to hit the sack, but I'm excited about tomorrow, so I wanted to share. One of Giacomo's friends, Mateo, is leaving to Italy tomorrow. So, Giorgia (italiana, who's mom is a professional cook) is going to cook Lasagna for everybody. My favorite food. Mom, I preemptively apologize if I return and say that hers is better than yours. We will see. I'm going to make guacamole, because they've never had it before.

Bed.

Love and licks,

Josh

Roomies and Paella

Last night was my first in the new place. I spent most of my time in the living room, where I was reading until Trini came in--we talked for many hours about each other, films, culture, religion, and stereotypes. It's harder for me to understand her more than the others, so I didn't get all of what she was saying. I can't wait to learn more Spanish, because she really has some things to say.

Later, Bea came home, and we talked about stereotypes and food. Bea's explanation of Spanish work culture made me laugh my head off. I wish I had recorded it. (In a nutshell, the Spanish work a lot more hours than the other Europeans because they make a mess of things, and spend so much time trying to fix it, that they end up not progressing). Trini said something about how we eat peanut butter, and I brought out the extra-large Skippy jar that I brought with me. Stereotype: true. Enter: laughter.
We also talked about marshmallows (that don't exist in Spain), and politics. At about midnight, Giacomo and three of his friends came back, and we all drank a chupito of lemon liquor. It's supposed to help you digest your meals.

------------

Trust me when I say this: at least once in your life, go to a nice place on the Spanish coast, and get paella de marisco. I'm not a big seafood person (which is changing quickly), but I LOVED this. We (Giacomo, and his friends Mateo & Giorgia) went to a place in La Albufera, and spent about 3 hours eating, and talking. Here's how it went:

1: Barón de Turís white wine, water, and bread
2: Salad, some cold fish that tasted like tuna, some other fish that was lightly battered and fried, tasty muscles (which I had never had tasted before), and fried calamari.
3: 2 dishes of paella. Paella Valenciana and paella de marisco (seafood).
4: Lots of jokes about a lady who was yelling to her friends throughout her whole meal, and more wine & water.
5: Postre. Mateo and I had apples because we were too stuffed, but Giorgia and Giacomo had flan. I still don't like flan.

After, we went to a bar to get coffee, and sat out in the sun to keep warm. It was a cold day, and I would love to return when I can wear my jorts and tank-top. While waiting for the bus, we all played on a small playground... probably some of the best fun I've had in a while. You know those animals that you sit on and have a big spring underneath, and you rock back and forth? Yeah. That's the one. I don't know why, but the ones here were so much more fun than any other one I've been on. I think their spring is larger.

I'm off to read some more, and go to bed. I'm not sure what sleep schedule I'm on, or what sleep schedule I should be on. Let's figure this out. Email me if you want to talk about something you read. I don't have many opportunities to engage in deep conversation, and it really is what fills my stomach.

The Place

Tunes: "Promise What you Will" (This song was perfect for some reason)

So, my roommates are Giacomo (the Italian guy), Bea, and Trini (the Spanish girls). I'm really impressed at how they run the place. It's a bit like French house--we have a labor chart, and there's comida común (aka guff). My balcony overlooks a really rad park with a soccer court, a roller-blading rink, a basketball court (nobody plays), outdoor ping pong tables, and outdoor chess tables.

I wanted to go to the beach, but I'm not sure if I will have time today. Need to go to the shop for bedding supplies. My room comes pre-equipped with a bed, desk, side table, lamp, bottle of windex, closet, shoe hanger, shelves, and a very particular red lamp. I have good vibes. Giacomo cooked lunch for all of us: pasta with bacon, then he mixed in about a half dozen eggs (with spices). Sooo good. He said he likes to cook on the weekends.

It's cool in my room, but fairly warm outside. Good sign for the summers. Recently, it's been quite difficult writing in English. I'm always second-guessing myself, and leaving words out. In the hostel, we had two lingua francas: one, an Italian/Spanish mix to speak to the italians. The other, a Spanish/English mix to talk to the other Europeans. So I think the grammar portion of my brain has been shut down since Tuesday due to overload.

To be honest, I think most of my brain have been shut down recently due to sleep depravation/jetlag/this odd culture. That's my cue.

Later

I have a flat!

Tunes: The Kooks

I found a flat yesterday! Address: Calle del Explorador Andrés 41 puerta 9. 3 Rooms, 4 people, a balcony, good-sized living room, and a full kitchen. It's a ten-minute walk to class, and a 15-minute walk to the beach. I haven't explored the area a whole lot, because I hadn't been looking in the area before. Magdalena, a girl from Oklahoma that I met here at the Purple Nest, gave me the number when she found another. Perfect.

The room is 160 Euros ($222) per month plus utilities, which average about 20 euros ($28) per month. So, $250 per month? Are you serious?! Guess that leaves me with more money for tapas and paella.

More later. I need to get to my apartment.

One more night @ Purple Nest

Tunes: Again, more old American rock/pop in the lounge.

Last night was great. After looking for a place, I took a little nap, then went for a jog through the park. I didn't know how far I was running, but I counted the number of bridges I ran under: 8. If you check a map, I ran from Pont de Real to Puente de as Glorias Valencianas. Beautiful park with lots of people running. It was dark outside, but the well-lit path, large trees, and many reflective bodies made everything quite magical. Brisk night. I stumbled upon the Campo de Rugby, and saw about 50 guys getting into it. Talked to one, and I might come by to practice with them.

So, we (the people at the hostel) got smart last night and cooked together. In total, it was about 1euro/person for pasta with vegetables, chicken, red sauce, bread, and drinks. We were up until 3:30 hanging in the lounge talking up a storm. I met Luis, a Mexican engineering student, and we hit it off. He was really excited to talk to me, because I speak "mexican." I was basically his translator from English/Spain Spanish to his spanish. Sooo fun.

Later, I had about a 1 1/2 hour discussion with the front desk man and two Italian girls. It was pretty bizarre, because we could communicate pretty well, even though the girls only spoke very little spanish. That really fed my soul, because we talked about religion, Jesus, relativism, and a bunch of cultural stuff. Right before we headed for bed, the three (awesome/friendly/funny) Turkish guys joined in on the convo.

Hopefully, I'll find a place today. Tonight is my last night here @ Purple Nest, unless if I dish out some more money. Let's pray that I get a place.

Later,

Josh

Walking and walking

I just realized my blogs were posting with a US time stamp, so add 7 hours to whatever time you see, and that's when I posted it. It's fixed now, so here marks the change.

Tunes:Go to Sleep (Little Man Being Erased

I'm pretty exhausted. Last night, I braved the Spain night life for the first time. There was a welcome party for the Erasmus students, and it was PACKED. Didn't bring my camera, because I wanted to have it for the rest of my trip. It was fun hanging with the hostel people, but I think I'd prefer going out with locals: this crowd was a bit rowdy.

Didn't get to take a siesta today because I planned to meet someone for a room in their apartment, and they didn't show. So I walked around a bunch, had an amazing lunch, bought dinner groceries, then came back to Purple Nest. Speaking of lunch, I had my first encounter with PAELLA Valenciana. It was soooo good. I got it from the same little café as yesterday (I'll post a picture sometime soon)

I'm gonna have to take a short nap. Run, another apartment at 9pm, dinner, then some huge gathering (2000+) at a the park tonight.

Cansado, pero con una cama y KOL,

Josh

PS, I'm going to put this in a song someday:
" Lift up your heads, O gates!
And be lifted up, O ancient doors,
that the King of glory may come in.
Who is this King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty,
the Lord, mighty in battle!
Lift up your heads, O gates!
And lift them up, O ancient doors,
that the King of glory may come in.
Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts,
he is the King of glory!" Ps 24:7-10

Random

Just bought one eggplant, one tomato, and a baguette for dinner at a little shop. Cute little place, and I mean little. I'm about to post some pics, and then cook dinner.

Oh yeah, the random things. Bear with me, because I like bullets:
-I have yet to see a black person walking with a non-black person. Must explore.
-EVERYONE smokes EVERYWHERE. It's making apartment finding difficult.
-Bicyclists ride on the sidewalk. I fear for my life.
-This city never stops.
-There are SO many natural areas/parks. I don't think I've even brushed the surface.
-Apartments are cheap. About 150-250 euros ($210-$350). I'm convinced they're so inexpensive because everyone spends their money on alcohol, tapas, cigarettes, café, y fashion.
-There are about 4 cafés on every street.
-We have a beer vending machine.

Saludos

Scampering zombie

Day two.
Tunes: Elephant, White Stripes

I finally have a converter for my electronics, so I can use my computer for more than 10 minutes. That also means that this is the first time in a while I've listened to my music--as soon as I heard the White Stripes, a large smile spread across my face. I'm pretty tired, and I'm about to take advantage of this siesta time. I have a meeting with a guy for an apartment at 4:20. They look pretty fantastic, but we shall see.

This morning, after many failed attempts to get out the door (due to printing malfunctions), I went to the university to get my info packet. I thought an info packet would have info on what I'm to do these next couple of days. Apparently not. I get to brave the internet to find which classes I want and when.

After I got my "info" packet, I ran into Ilaria, my Italian friend. We both were in dire need of café, so we stopped in at a small restaurant. I ate something that looked like a paella sandwich. It had lots of potatoes and eggs. I'm not exactly sure, because they spoke Valenciano. Anyway, it was delicious. Way too much for one sitting, so it was also my lunch. I'm a huge fan of their coffee--I think their café americano is 2 shots espresso, 2 shots hot water (not totally sure). Delicious.

Ilaria accompanied me to the store where I bought my power converter. She's pretty rad--as I said previously, she doesn't speak english, so everything is in Spanish. Perfect. We might have some classes together. She's from northern Italy, in the mountains, but she hates the cold... Apparently, the northern Italians are like the "southern comfort" Americans. There are 3 southern Italians here, and there is a stark difference between their personalities.

Right now, I'm chilling with Chris, an English bloke who's traveling around. We both have macs--as ANDREW CRAFT said, they don't really have Apple over here. So I hope I don't break my Roady (2) aka Josh in White aka my laptop.

OK. Siesta.

Ciao

First Day, Part deux

Tunes: Random American pop on a Spanish radio station

Getting tired, but I still need to stay up a bit more to get on schedule. This place reminds me of French House, probably just because of the large mix of nationalities. Been hanging out with a German and Italian--the German doesn't want to speak English, and the Italian doesn't speak English, so I'm hanging with the right crowd. We braved the Supermercado to get groceries for dinner. Lemon chicken salad, with random tastings of box white wine, foreign beers, and bottled water. They don't drink tap water here.

I have 1:44 left on my computer, because I didn't go to the right mall to get a power converter. That will have to wait until tomorrow. I also have an orientation meeting with my advisor. I have no idea which building I'm going to. Apparently, there are so many streets, that everyone knows where to go based on landmarks--it's gonna take me some time.

I still need to eat paella (ANDREW CRAFT). But hey, I've only been here about 7 hours.

Random: There was a rocking giraffe child's toy in the Zurich airport.\

Hasta mañana

First Day

Tunes: Random european techno playing in the lounge.
Okay, so I'm in the hostel, and I've already had one go at the city to get my sim card. It was a solid experience. The people at Vodafone didn't speak English, which is exactly what I wanted. I was able to get everything I needed, and while I was talking to the Vodafone rep, a lady who was also shopping helped me with some specifics (she has a vodafone).
(BTW, my number is 673-180-755. I think I get free incoming texts.)

The lady's name is Heidi, and she has a lot of energy. She found out that I'm at the university, and apparently her daughter is too! So, she gave me her information because she studies French and English, and figured we could do an "intercambio." After some talk, she insisted that I come to see her shop so she could give me 2 maps and a Valencia phonebook. She also invited me to a "happy hour" on friday at 7PM to meet some locals. I'm stoked. She didn't speak a lick of english, but I was able to understand about 95% of what she was saying.

I realized, after noticing many prolonged glances in my direction, that I stand out:
-I have a red beard
-I wear a mountain hardware jacket, not a peacoat
-I'm tall
-My jeans aren't dark
-I'm blonde. I've seen about 3 blonde people, and they were either on the plane or the metro.
-(I'm using a city map)

So... this is really fun. I'm going to go to the store to buy a power adapter and some food for dinner (unless if I stumble upon a tasty looking restaurant). I'll upload photos when I have power for my computer.

I'm Here!

Okay, not enough time to post yet, but below are the blogs I wrote on my flight. Didn't have internet until I got here.

1/25/10 3:59PM
Tunes: The Autumn Film & Goldfinger. Odd mix.

I’m sitting in the Dulles airport, waiting for the leg to Zurich. I passed my CLEP examination, and my sister got accepted to the UT Health Science Center for PA school. I like how she put it: “when life gives you lemons, God gives you the water of life.” He is providing in more than these two ways. I don’t enjoy sitting in the terminals—there aren’t any balconies or open-air lounges. Also, I can’t bring myself to pay for WiFi, so I’m going to stick to my books (not a complaint). Speaking of, I have the last 200 pages of Atlas Shrugged. I didn’t want to bring the entire book with me, so I tore it. Painful.

I have great music and two Tylenol PM for my next flight—thanks Glen & Stacy. If I can manage, I will sleep on the flight over, and wake up at 8:00AM local time. God willing, I will ease into my new time zone.

It’s fun listening to all of the different languages and seeing the different styles of dress. Pretty soon, I will be the one who’s interesting to listen to and stare at. The 35-day journey is very rich in my mind, as I have been mulling over it during my flight. Can I fast from America?
Highlights of my Austin-DC flight:
1) Flying over, through, and then under the large clouds while listening to Metric. I wrote about it.
2) “The afflicted shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the Lord! May your hearts live forever!” Psalm 22:26
Well, I’m off to read about Jesus’s death, Atlas Shrugged, and and talk to this Spanish family sitting next to me.

1/26/10 8:45AM Zurich
Tunes: Swiss German
Turns out, Tylenol PM doesn’t stop babies from crying or planes from bouncing. Probably got about 45 total minutes of sleep, but I feel pretty good. Praise the lord for bathrooms, deodorant, and fresh shirts. This airport is stunning—I’ve been mostly wandering around, but I’m going to grab a coffee, a bite, and a book. Mucho gusto, Europe.


10:39AM Zurich, terminal A71
Tunes: Snowfall

I had the inter-continental breakfast: One kaffee, one frischner orangensaft, and one gipfel (Coffee, fresh orange juice, and a croissant). The coffee was amazing—strong like espresso, but very smooth and round taste. I thought it was funny that they had an “American Breakfast,” which consisted of sausage, eggs, bacon, hash browns, orange juice, and coffee. I guess we really do eat that much…

Psalm 23 kept me company. I’m not sure of the exchange rate, so I haven’t purchased anything more than breakfast. That is quite a feat, after passing multiple chocolate shops and stores with 50% off signs. Tricky airport advertising.
I love watching the many different airport cars dance about. There seems to be a different car for every task, and they are waltzing in the snow. I depart at noon-05, and will be in Valencia at 2PM. Time to read more about Francisco d’Anconia, and his spectacle of September 2nd.