Hello Everyone,
Long time, no blog! Sorry about the lack of communication, but there are moments in life that just sweep you up, and it takes a while to settle back into things.
I'm still settling down from my AMAZING, FANTASTIC, EXTRAORDINARY weekend/Halloween in London with some friends I met in Costa Rica, my weekend as tour guide for two of my friends that came to Valencia, and my elite weekend in Villarrobledo with the same friends that came to Valencia the week prior!
I'm a just a travel machine! I wonder if I have reached the quota to be considered cosmopolitan? It may seem like I am traveling ALL of the time, but truth be told, there are students in this study abroad program that travel EVERY weekend. All of this traveling paired with university is exhausting! I am lucky and grateful that I still find time to relax and read the newspaper (is Spanish, of course). Contrary to what some of my family members might think, I enjoy spending time in a familiar place. Nothing can ever replace HOME, that which is known.
Whenever I step into the Valencian sunlight from the metro or train station a smile always finds it's way to my visage--I am back home, well my temporary home. I have one month left in Spain, and I am feeling good. I am feeling something I've never felt before. I would not describe this feeling as homesick, but rather the perfect balance between anticipation to come back to my true home and preparedness to take Eurpoe by storm--my remaining trips include Porto, Portugal; Vienna, Austria; and one more undecided site.
Lately, I have been thinking about my lifestyle. It is quite unique for a person my age. Let's face it 3 times LIVING out of the country for extended periods of time (by myself) within a one year time span is quite dramatic.
The majority of the readers of this blog do not live this type of transit lifestyle. Nevertheless, this way of living excites me! I love it because I'm always growing as a person and learning about EVERYTHING. While I have the passion to continue to travel, I also have a desire to settle down in one spot. Like I said, travel can be exhausting (and when you are tired on a trip, you just don't get the same exciting experience). So, my question to everyone is this, "What get's you excited?" "What get's your mojo following?" I want to hear responses! I really want this blog to be interactive! Please post or email me your thoughts. Do you kids get you excited about life? Is it the satisfying feeling you get from a job? Is is a unique ice cream treat from a cute diner down the street?
In a world where routine can dominate our lives and suppress our curiosity what makes you smile? What makes you come alive? To you, is routine mundane is or there joy to be found within our everyday motions?
Pictures from my trips can be found at this link:
http://picasaweb.google.com/112376838831918393615?authkey=Gv1sRgCOWlufvhnsXSQQ
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Sunday, October 24, 2010
City living
A short piece on city living.
Since my uncle and aunt moved to the Gold Coast of Chicago, I have been raving about my desire to live in the big city. City living is fast paced, lively, cosmopolitan, and intriguing. I love walking through the city seeing new buildings and interesting people (tourists vs. the locals), strolling through the parks that are mini sanctuaries hidden in the city of chrome, and choosing restaurants based on food and ambiance. It’s always thrilling to be in this buzzing city.
A change of perspective.
Since living in Valencia, another big city, I have decided to revoke my desires to LIVE in a big city. Living in the city is definitely different than visiting it for a few days. Adapting to the city life—getting around, limited greenery, the people—was a challenge.
At first I had some difficulties finding my way around, but that is natural. What took me a while to discover was how city people get around. When I visit Chicago I walk everywhere! Distance does not faze me. Here, in Valencia, I used to walk everywhere; however, I’ve realized inconvenience of this form of transportation. To walk to school it takes 40 minutes one way; to choir, 35; to English class, 15. For a while I could not understand where all of my time was going. I wasn’t having time to do homework. Now I know it was due to walking 3 hours every day just to get to where I needed to go!
I’m a woman of solutions. So what did I do to resolve this problem? I bought a bike subscription. For 18 euro I can ride public bikes that are stationed throughout Valencia to get to wherever I need to go in half the time and at more than half the cost (fiscally and environmentally) of the bus! The other day I took a bike into the heart of the city to go grocery shopping. I was literally laughing to myself aloud because I found myself riding on sidewalks along the pedestrians (it’s legal!) and on some of the busiest streets with crazy bus drivers. I had to chuckle, because to me, riding a rented city bike down a city street to go grocery shopping meant that I was a real city girl.
Finding nature was a little challenging, but for 2 euro I can take a bus to Alfombra, This spot has a lake, the ocean, and a forest. I’ve been there once, but plan on going back. Also, there are tiny plots throughout the city with trees (no grass :-/) that make good reading spots.
Adjusting to the people in the streets was difficult and affected me the most. At first, I changed myself to become a person of the city—what a mistake! I listened to everyone who said when you walk down the street don’t smile, don’t look, and don’t make small talk, because it’s not normal here. The adherence to this advice was short lived. I quickly realized I’m not happy if I live so impersonally. I have yet to meet one rude or dangerous person when I’ve made small talk in the grocery store or while waiting at a cross walk or standing in the subway. I’ve decided not to follow the norm of city life here, but to bring my twist to it! It makes me happy, and it brings a smile to the faces of others.
Morgan is leaving her mark on Spain! Oh, how the Spaniards love when she asks seemingly obvious questions in the grocery store! Everyone gets a good laugh.
Since my uncle and aunt moved to the Gold Coast of Chicago, I have been raving about my desire to live in the big city. City living is fast paced, lively, cosmopolitan, and intriguing. I love walking through the city seeing new buildings and interesting people (tourists vs. the locals), strolling through the parks that are mini sanctuaries hidden in the city of chrome, and choosing restaurants based on food and ambiance. It’s always thrilling to be in this buzzing city.
A change of perspective.
Since living in Valencia, another big city, I have decided to revoke my desires to LIVE in a big city. Living in the city is definitely different than visiting it for a few days. Adapting to the city life—getting around, limited greenery, the people—was a challenge.
At first I had some difficulties finding my way around, but that is natural. What took me a while to discover was how city people get around. When I visit Chicago I walk everywhere! Distance does not faze me. Here, in Valencia, I used to walk everywhere; however, I’ve realized inconvenience of this form of transportation. To walk to school it takes 40 minutes one way; to choir, 35; to English class, 15. For a while I could not understand where all of my time was going. I wasn’t having time to do homework. Now I know it was due to walking 3 hours every day just to get to where I needed to go!
I’m a woman of solutions. So what did I do to resolve this problem? I bought a bike subscription. For 18 euro I can ride public bikes that are stationed throughout Valencia to get to wherever I need to go in half the time and at more than half the cost (fiscally and environmentally) of the bus! The other day I took a bike into the heart of the city to go grocery shopping. I was literally laughing to myself aloud because I found myself riding on sidewalks along the pedestrians (it’s legal!) and on some of the busiest streets with crazy bus drivers. I had to chuckle, because to me, riding a rented city bike down a city street to go grocery shopping meant that I was a real city girl.
Finding nature was a little challenging, but for 2 euro I can take a bus to Alfombra, This spot has a lake, the ocean, and a forest. I’ve been there once, but plan on going back. Also, there are tiny plots throughout the city with trees (no grass :-/) that make good reading spots.
Adjusting to the people in the streets was difficult and affected me the most. At first, I changed myself to become a person of the city—what a mistake! I listened to everyone who said when you walk down the street don’t smile, don’t look, and don’t make small talk, because it’s not normal here. The adherence to this advice was short lived. I quickly realized I’m not happy if I live so impersonally. I have yet to meet one rude or dangerous person when I’ve made small talk in the grocery store or while waiting at a cross walk or standing in the subway. I’ve decided not to follow the norm of city life here, but to bring my twist to it! It makes me happy, and it brings a smile to the faces of others.
Morgan is leaving her mark on Spain! Oh, how the Spaniards love when she asks seemingly obvious questions in the grocery store! Everyone gets a good laugh.
Soy diferente--I'm different
***I am resolved to write my blogs with a more conscious effort; thus, please enjoy this blog as the first of many that will apply my comprehensive writing style :-)
Yesterday I had the confirmation of what I already knew was true—I am different. I say these words with a smile, confidence, pride, and a secret sense of conceit.
Yesterday I traveled to Calpe, a coastal city in Spain, with a group of students from my study abroad program. Calpe is a small, beautiful town with a touch of city. There are three main things to do in Calpe: beach, stroll the streets, or climb the mountain. What did we do? I’ll give you one guess…
In retrospect, the first confirmation of my individuality came the moment I stepped off the bus and saw what we would be climbing. I was excited and anxious to start. The size did not intimidate me, nor the fact that I would have to exert a substantial amount of energy to make it to the top. While other students were debating whether to go to the top or only the half way point, my mind was made up. For me, it was not a question of making it to the top or not, it was a question of what I would discover on my way up— man-made or natural paths, animal life, plant life, breath taking views, personal reflections, etc.
On the journey to the top, I had my second and third verifications that I stray from the common thought process of young adults my age. Before this trip we were told to wear trekking/hiking shoes, so of course I wore my durable, land-to-water, lime green Keens. I also thought it obvious to wear my sweatpants: they can be rolled into shorts when I get hot from climbing and let down to their original pants form when it got cold (the mountain was bordered by water on three of the four sides, so I assumed it would get cold). I was astonished to see others come in jeans and converse! There was even one girl in a skirt and another in heels! While others were complaining or making half-serious jokes about their lack of preparation for hiking, I was quite comfortable. The third confirmation came in the form of well, form. The way others climbed and descended the mountain was much different than my style. I stayed low to the ground to maintain my center of gravity, while others stood erect trying to maintain their balance. Some were apprehensive to touch the ground with their hands or to grip a rock for stability. When I go hiking, am prepared to get dirty! That is the part of being in nature, because it reflects the bond that forms between you and the environment! The most disheartening aspect of the form of others was their singular desire to make it to the top, rather than enjoy the journey. I was the last one to the top, not because I was slow, but because I would pause and enjoy what I was doing, where I was, and how I felt.
During the descent of the first of two groups, I split from the group. Everyone was moving so fast to the bottom, and I still wanted to see and experience more. It wasn’t enough for me to just go to the top and be done; I was not satisfied. As everyone hastened to the left to get to the base, I went to the right. In the words of Robert Frost, I took “The Road Not Taken.” I walked through the greenest part of the mountain that no one else will know. I stood in peaceful solitude looking out across the sea. When I explored a little more, I came to the end of all the trails. I climbed a rock and sat. The rock was at the edge of the bluff. Below me seemed to be a break wall—I could hear the waves crashing against it; Behind me, the edges of the other four cliffs that comprise the mountain; To the left, the Mediterranean Sea decorated with sailboats, birds, and a little fishing-town; to the right, the green side of the mountain (trees, brush, and grass); in front of me, the last bluff that made up the mountain; surrounding me, a tornado so seagulls soaring through the sky. I sat in this spot for a while, just thinking and feeling…
I thought how lucky I am to have the opportunities to see places, like this mountain, that I literally can’t even dream up; to experience precious moments while I’m living them; to see things that I know half of the world never will; to have my health and a positive attitude; to have the mentality to help, rather than harm; to have a loving family that supports me; to have a best friend who is silly, smart, supportive, and adventurous; to have a boyfriend who loves me, challenges me, grows with me, and makes me a better person. I felt content and blessed. I felt a sense of selflessness induced by the idea that I am living these moments to share them with others: I am a vehicle for those who without my accounts of these moments and places would never know their grace. For a brief instant I felt that everyone who I’ve crossed paths with was with me on that mountain—seeing and experiencing everything as I did. I liked that feeling: being alone, without feeling alone.
On the way back down the mountain I got to watch the sun set to the west, forming a fiery pink-orange-purple sky. Two minutes later I saw the moon sneaking into view from behind a cloud. I literally watched it transform from a sliver in the sky to a breathtaking golden full moon. I’m glad I stayed behind.
Like anyone who has ever felt like the outsider looking in, I sometimes feel sad and alone when others don’t understand me or feel the need to be blatantly hurtful; however, I would NEVER change the fundamentals of who I am. Unlike the majority of young adults my age that numbingly walk through life, I LIVE. I experience and appreciate the life that I’ve been given. There will always be people who have been to more places than I have, but quantity holds little importance when compared to the quality of those experiences. While the majority of the group took the path to the left, “I took the one less traveled by,/And that has made all the difference.”
Yesterday I had the confirmation of what I already knew was true—I am different. I say these words with a smile, confidence, pride, and a secret sense of conceit.
Yesterday I traveled to Calpe, a coastal city in Spain, with a group of students from my study abroad program. Calpe is a small, beautiful town with a touch of city. There are three main things to do in Calpe: beach, stroll the streets, or climb the mountain. What did we do? I’ll give you one guess…
In retrospect, the first confirmation of my individuality came the moment I stepped off the bus and saw what we would be climbing. I was excited and anxious to start. The size did not intimidate me, nor the fact that I would have to exert a substantial amount of energy to make it to the top. While other students were debating whether to go to the top or only the half way point, my mind was made up. For me, it was not a question of making it to the top or not, it was a question of what I would discover on my way up— man-made or natural paths, animal life, plant life, breath taking views, personal reflections, etc.
On the journey to the top, I had my second and third verifications that I stray from the common thought process of young adults my age. Before this trip we were told to wear trekking/hiking shoes, so of course I wore my durable, land-to-water, lime green Keens. I also thought it obvious to wear my sweatpants: they can be rolled into shorts when I get hot from climbing and let down to their original pants form when it got cold (the mountain was bordered by water on three of the four sides, so I assumed it would get cold). I was astonished to see others come in jeans and converse! There was even one girl in a skirt and another in heels! While others were complaining or making half-serious jokes about their lack of preparation for hiking, I was quite comfortable. The third confirmation came in the form of well, form. The way others climbed and descended the mountain was much different than my style. I stayed low to the ground to maintain my center of gravity, while others stood erect trying to maintain their balance. Some were apprehensive to touch the ground with their hands or to grip a rock for stability. When I go hiking, am prepared to get dirty! That is the part of being in nature, because it reflects the bond that forms between you and the environment! The most disheartening aspect of the form of others was their singular desire to make it to the top, rather than enjoy the journey. I was the last one to the top, not because I was slow, but because I would pause and enjoy what I was doing, where I was, and how I felt.
During the descent of the first of two groups, I split from the group. Everyone was moving so fast to the bottom, and I still wanted to see and experience more. It wasn’t enough for me to just go to the top and be done; I was not satisfied. As everyone hastened to the left to get to the base, I went to the right. In the words of Robert Frost, I took “The Road Not Taken.” I walked through the greenest part of the mountain that no one else will know. I stood in peaceful solitude looking out across the sea. When I explored a little more, I came to the end of all the trails. I climbed a rock and sat. The rock was at the edge of the bluff. Below me seemed to be a break wall—I could hear the waves crashing against it; Behind me, the edges of the other four cliffs that comprise the mountain; To the left, the Mediterranean Sea decorated with sailboats, birds, and a little fishing-town; to the right, the green side of the mountain (trees, brush, and grass); in front of me, the last bluff that made up the mountain; surrounding me, a tornado so seagulls soaring through the sky. I sat in this spot for a while, just thinking and feeling…
I thought how lucky I am to have the opportunities to see places, like this mountain, that I literally can’t even dream up; to experience precious moments while I’m living them; to see things that I know half of the world never will; to have my health and a positive attitude; to have the mentality to help, rather than harm; to have a loving family that supports me; to have a best friend who is silly, smart, supportive, and adventurous; to have a boyfriend who loves me, challenges me, grows with me, and makes me a better person. I felt content and blessed. I felt a sense of selflessness induced by the idea that I am living these moments to share them with others: I am a vehicle for those who without my accounts of these moments and places would never know their grace. For a brief instant I felt that everyone who I’ve crossed paths with was with me on that mountain—seeing and experiencing everything as I did. I liked that feeling: being alone, without feeling alone.
On the way back down the mountain I got to watch the sun set to the west, forming a fiery pink-orange-purple sky. Two minutes later I saw the moon sneaking into view from behind a cloud. I literally watched it transform from a sliver in the sky to a breathtaking golden full moon. I’m glad I stayed behind.
Like anyone who has ever felt like the outsider looking in, I sometimes feel sad and alone when others don’t understand me or feel the need to be blatantly hurtful; however, I would NEVER change the fundamentals of who I am. Unlike the majority of young adults my age that numbingly walk through life, I LIVE. I experience and appreciate the life that I’ve been given. There will always be people who have been to more places than I have, but quantity holds little importance when compared to the quality of those experiences. While the majority of the group took the path to the left, “I took the one less traveled by,/And that has made all the difference.”
Monday, October 11, 2010
Adios Madrid
Oh what a life I live! Today I had that moment. You know, the moment when you know that you are completely independent. I was leaving an AMAZING park (the leaves were changing colors, the breeze brushed my face, and each path had an unique ambiance. I was completely content), walking through the streets of Madrid at dusk, admiring the arquitecture that lines La Calle Prado (yep, THE Prado: one of the most famous art museums in the world, which I visited yesterday). During this walk I just had that feeling that I am in this surreal place. I 'm in Europe. I never thought my life would take me here, but here I am.
I just want to add a side note here. Thank you to everyone in my life who has ever influenced the person who I am today--the good and the bad, because without the bad, you don't know the how to taste the sweet. I love my life. I am grateful for all of the opportunities I have to see the world, to meet know people, and to expand my mind. I wish I could document my emotion, so that I could share these moments with everyone--they are so precious to me. I often have moments where I smile in the middle of the street because I think of a family member or a friend that I know would enjoy what just happened. So, thank you to everyone in my life that has supported and/or challenged me.
Purvi and I rocked Madrid! The first day we went out with a new Australian friend. We went to an outdoor market in a street that is known as Rastro, which translates to trail of blood: this was the street of animal slaughter in Madrid. Kind of morbid, but interesting at the same time. We went to the most beautiful park I have ever been, Parque del Retiro. It's comparable to Central Park in New York, but better. We went to the Prado. I saw Las Meninas by Velazquez and La Maja Desnuda by Goya!
Today Purvi and I started early...I'm not so sure if that was a great idea. We were tired, which led to us getting annoyed easily; nevertheless, we persevered and just enjoyed strolling. The weather is amazing. I'm getting exposure to Autumn. There was a gentle breeze, leaves falling throughout la ciudad antigua, and the sun peeking through the clouds. On our stroll we saw El Monasterio de las Descalzas (a monestary that has 33 rooms and which housed 33 nuns at a time to honor Jesus, who died at 33 years old), La Plaza de Oriente (a beautiful garden that welcomes those to the old Nacional Palace. Franco used to give speeches from the palace to a rumbling crowd that gathered in this garden), El Palacio Real (HUGE palace that has a cathedral attached to it), Catedral de la Almudena (the church attached to the palace),and The Arab Wall.
Purvi and I were extremely tired and sore. We went back to the hostel where we ate and got a lecture about Christianity (in Spanish from the cleaning lady), because Purvi is Hindu... we continually encounter extermely religious people who feel the need to talk to us about Christianity. I don't want to be disrepectful, but at the same time I would like to tell them that we've heard all of the stories before, and Purvi is NOT going to convert!
Anyways after this brief break we became very indifferent to everything in Madrid.We were letting the feeling of someone beating our legs, knees, and feet with a baseball bat get the best of us. Then something came over us. A powerful resolution to see Madrid. To not let our tiredness and indifference get the best of us! We drastically changed our attitudes and hit the streets for a second time.
With high spirits and determination to see the REAL Madrid we saw Plaza Mayor (a place of bullfighting and where they executed heretics during the Spanish Inquisition and where I bought paintings from a local artist today!), El fuente de Neptuno, a memorial to those who lost their lives on May 2, 1808 (When Napoleon invaded), Jeronimos Church (the beautiful church behind the Prado), El Banco de Espana (the Spain's national bank that has their gold reserves under the Plaza de la Cibeles, i.e. a busy cul-du-sac, and the other portion in Fort Knox), the Plaza de la Cibeles (a fountain that the Spainards risked their lives to save by gaurding with sandbags during a war), Palacio de Comunicaciones (Communication building. The mayor has his office there), and Plaza de Independencia.
We dominated Madrid and Barcelona! Rome, watch out!
Now I need to go to bed. We have to catch a shuttle tomorrow at 3 am to go to the airport. Our flight leaves at 7 am. We arrive in Rome at 9am.
I will keep you all updated.
P.S. Purvi and I have been sustaining ourselves on a jar of natural peanut butter (I think it's from Germany... It's impossible to find, but we found it in an Indian convenience story by pure luck), Nutella, bananas (we combine the three to make sandwiches), apples, pretzels, and oranges! In Rome, we will be only eating pizza, pasta, canolis, and geloto--lol, we have made this decision with our own free will :-)
Love,
Me!
P.P.S. My spelling is sometimes poor in my blogs because I don't have much time to write, it's hard to switch from Spanish to English, and there is not English spell check on the computers sometimes.
I just want to add a side note here. Thank you to everyone in my life who has ever influenced the person who I am today--the good and the bad, because without the bad, you don't know the how to taste the sweet. I love my life. I am grateful for all of the opportunities I have to see the world, to meet know people, and to expand my mind. I wish I could document my emotion, so that I could share these moments with everyone--they are so precious to me. I often have moments where I smile in the middle of the street because I think of a family member or a friend that I know would enjoy what just happened. So, thank you to everyone in my life that has supported and/or challenged me.
Purvi and I rocked Madrid! The first day we went out with a new Australian friend. We went to an outdoor market in a street that is known as Rastro, which translates to trail of blood: this was the street of animal slaughter in Madrid. Kind of morbid, but interesting at the same time. We went to the most beautiful park I have ever been, Parque del Retiro. It's comparable to Central Park in New York, but better. We went to the Prado. I saw Las Meninas by Velazquez and La Maja Desnuda by Goya!
Today Purvi and I started early...I'm not so sure if that was a great idea. We were tired, which led to us getting annoyed easily; nevertheless, we persevered and just enjoyed strolling. The weather is amazing. I'm getting exposure to Autumn. There was a gentle breeze, leaves falling throughout la ciudad antigua, and the sun peeking through the clouds. On our stroll we saw El Monasterio de las Descalzas (a monestary that has 33 rooms and which housed 33 nuns at a time to honor Jesus, who died at 33 years old), La Plaza de Oriente (a beautiful garden that welcomes those to the old Nacional Palace. Franco used to give speeches from the palace to a rumbling crowd that gathered in this garden), El Palacio Real (HUGE palace that has a cathedral attached to it), Catedral de la Almudena (the church attached to the palace),and The Arab Wall.
Purvi and I were extremely tired and sore. We went back to the hostel where we ate and got a lecture about Christianity (in Spanish from the cleaning lady), because Purvi is Hindu... we continually encounter extermely religious people who feel the need to talk to us about Christianity. I don't want to be disrepectful, but at the same time I would like to tell them that we've heard all of the stories before, and Purvi is NOT going to convert!
Anyways after this brief break we became very indifferent to everything in Madrid.We were letting the feeling of someone beating our legs, knees, and feet with a baseball bat get the best of us. Then something came over us. A powerful resolution to see Madrid. To not let our tiredness and indifference get the best of us! We drastically changed our attitudes and hit the streets for a second time.
With high spirits and determination to see the REAL Madrid we saw Plaza Mayor (a place of bullfighting and where they executed heretics during the Spanish Inquisition and where I bought paintings from a local artist today!), El fuente de Neptuno, a memorial to those who lost their lives on May 2, 1808 (When Napoleon invaded), Jeronimos Church (the beautiful church behind the Prado), El Banco de Espana (the Spain's national bank that has their gold reserves under the Plaza de la Cibeles, i.e. a busy cul-du-sac, and the other portion in Fort Knox), the Plaza de la Cibeles (a fountain that the Spainards risked their lives to save by gaurding with sandbags during a war), Palacio de Comunicaciones (Communication building. The mayor has his office there), and Plaza de Independencia.
We dominated Madrid and Barcelona! Rome, watch out!
Now I need to go to bed. We have to catch a shuttle tomorrow at 3 am to go to the airport. Our flight leaves at 7 am. We arrive in Rome at 9am.
I will keep you all updated.
P.S. Purvi and I have been sustaining ourselves on a jar of natural peanut butter (I think it's from Germany... It's impossible to find, but we found it in an Indian convenience story by pure luck), Nutella, bananas (we combine the three to make sandwiches), apples, pretzels, and oranges! In Rome, we will be only eating pizza, pasta, canolis, and geloto--lol, we have made this decision with our own free will :-)
Love,
Me!
P.P.S. My spelling is sometimes poor in my blogs because I don't have much time to write, it's hard to switch from Spanish to English, and there is not English spell check on the computers sometimes.
Vacciones Empieza!
This entry was written on October 8, 2010. I typed it on my friend's computer and only now had WIFI to post it.
Hola Todos (Hi everyone)
Spain is definitely growing on me! I’m so exciting to finally say that I love it here! Perhaps my change of heart is due to meeting some Spanards and some other students that study in Barcelona that speak Spanish with me all the time or maybe it is because I’m keeping myself busy with choir practice, the beach, exploring what Valencia has to offer on the outskirts, and of course studying. I think my biggest challenge was to adapt to a developed city life when all of the other countries I’ve visited have underdeveloped, seemingly undiscovered little town. I prepared myself to be living in a Spanish-speaking country, not in a city. Nevertheless, I’m learning how to adapt to the city life: 30-40 minutes to walk anywhere (if father away, the busy is a nice alternative), discover what little greenery there is in the city and stay there for an hour, spend the weekends in less populated areas such as the manmade lake or the nudist beach I found!
Some of you have asked about pictures, my Spanish family, etc. Here is my response. I will be posting my pictures to my google account. This link will take you to my first round of downloaded photos http://picasaweb.google.com/112376838831918393615/SpainSept2010# I don’t think you need a google account to see them, but if you can’t access them, just create an account (you do not need to create an email to create an account).
I absolutely LOVE my Spanish family! They were very patient and loving during my rocky first weeks. I have a madre. Her name is Blanca. She is Swedish. She moved to Spain with her family when she was very young—I don’t remember why. She owns a Tobaco shop 2 blocks away from our house. She has 4 kids. Her dream is to save enough money to move out of the city and buy a house with a garden in Morida. She often sings classical music in the kitchen. She is opinionated, caring, and has a great deal of insight about people and life! We often have talks for hours in the living room after lunch or dinner. The other day she and I rode bikes for a couple of kilometers until we got to the beach, where I read and she walked for 2 hours—She is in her 70s, and she still bikes and hikes! I love it! I want to be that active when I’m her age.
I have a Spanish brother who lives in the house. He is about 40 years old. He is super nice! He often accompanies me through the city showing me the sights and taking pictures for me. He speaks a little bit of English. It’s strange because he knows soooo much, but his pronunciation is off because he only knows English through reading (he is probably a better speller than me. Lol). He does not have a girlfriend, but would really like one. He is very sweet, but tends to date girls who take advantage of him…I hope he finds someone!
The food in Spain is nothing special—I know! What a disappointment! Then again, I only know my madre’s cooking, which tend to be quite bland. Her favorite ingredient in the kitchen is olive oil, sometimes she will use salt. I asked her the other day if she had black pepper, her response: “I have no idea.” She checked in the cabinet and found some!!! Now I eat an egg with pepper for breakfast. Breakfast!!! I miss American breakfasts! The typical Spainish breakfast is coffee, maybe accompanied by toast or some cookies. Thank goodness I have an AWESOME MADRE. She lets me make my own breakfast. Some days I’ll have cereal with a banana and juice, other days it will be an egg with toast and juice. Yogurt and granola is sometimes on my menu too! Paella is my favorite food I’ve had so far. It’s a rice dish with some spices, veggies, and usually chicken or seafood.
Change of subject. I am on a coach bus right now traveling to Barcelona. It is 8 am. I’ve been up since 5 am. I am on my fall break: Barcelona, Madrid, and Rome! I am traveling with a very nice girl named Purvi. She is from Virginia. I’m soooo excited for this trip! I hope to get another stamp in my passport when I’m in Italy. I already bought tickets to the Vatican! I love traveling. It makes me happy, excited and relaxed. I think seeing new places and meeting new people is what I’m supposed to be doing while I’m here (well, and studying). I am resolved to travel throughout the U.S. sometime soon. I really want to experience what my country has to offer, so that I can enhance all of my other travel experience.
I wish you all could share this moment with me. I’m on a highway that passes through bush-covered mountains. To my left, everything is green. There is an early fog that is lifting. The sun is peaking through the clouds. I look to the right and I can see a city and the Mediterranean Sea. I am in Spain!
I am equipped with an Italian phrase book, my friend, a good attitude, and the desire to learn as much as possible—I’m ready to embark on this journey!
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Side note
The previous entry was ment to portray a frustrated, yet excited tone. I found the entire situation surreal. In retropect it is very funny, and I love that I have a REAL, RAW travel experience like this. It´s what I live for! I´m in great spirts! After 3 more hours of rest, we are going to take Madrid by storm :-)
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Oh, the adventure continues
Hola todos!
Barcelona was a blast! We saw many monuments, but perhaps the enjoyable activites for me was strolling through a beautiful park. There was a fountain designed by Gaudi (we also a different park that he helped designed) and a manmade pound, which Purvi and I rowed throughout in a rowboast. Very romantic ;-P
We say many palaces, parks, archs, and the 1992 Olympic stadium. We walked down Calle Las Ramblas (known for drugs, prostitution, and muggers), but no worries we made it through the street without any problems! We drank natural fruit juices from a HUGE outdoor market (the smells were amazing, except when you got to the meat and fish sections...pew wee). We saw a beautiful church, Iglesia de Santa Maria del Sol, along with other buildings from the 14 and 15 centuries (like a 14th century hospital).
The art throughout the city is amazing. There is definitely a great gothic influence along with many pieces by and inspired by Gaudi and another sculptor/painter whose name escapes me (it starts with a B and has the common theme of bubble/fat objects). We saw the Sagrada Familia. A church that has been a work-in-progress for the past 128 years. It is extremely intricate and is going to be HUGE!!!
So now, we are in Madrid...what an experience getting here! I was expecting to sleep on the bus--that is why we perchased the bus that traveled from 10 pm to 6 am (save money by avoiding an additional hostel stay). Besides the normal uncomfortable bus seats, which is expected, our bus was FREEZING. Literally, I cannot fathom why it was so cold. Everyone on the bus thought so, expect the driver. First of all, Madrid weather is cold, like 45 degrees fareinhiet; however, when you are sitting in the second seat behind the driver who has is window OPEN while it is raining the cold starts to become a problem even for a Wisconsinite like myself. I legit was shivering and could not get warm until the last 2 hours when I moved to the back of the bus where it was less windy. Oh, also, the driver didn´t even have the heat on. I think it was broken. GAH!
Our hostel was great. Met a guy from U.W. Madison and some Austrailians!
Ok, so right now I´m in our hostel waiting to check in, which I am okay with because I am out of the cold. But, once again a mini adventure was required before being in the current state that I am. Our taxi dropped us off at the location. After Purvi rang like 4 different doorbells, all of which were not ours, I rang the right one. lol. No answer. Then we decided to try calling the hostel. No answer. The we were like, ¨"Ok, it´s 6:20 am they probably don´t open until 7 am. Let´s wait next door at Dunkin' Coffee (aka Dunkin'Donuts)." Well, as luck would have it, they were not open. So we were literally standing in a sketchy side street, which in reality wasn´t that sketchy because there were people walking down it...people that were finishing off there night on the town. I decided we needed to go somewhere--I refused waiting in the street. Not only was it cold, but we had our traveling bags, and I did not want to get jumped. So, me being the problem solver that I am saw that all of the bars were closing and decided to go across the street and ring the doorbell for another hostel. Please keep in mind that all of the doors on the side streets are locked, you need to call someone to let you in. So, I called another hostel and, in Spanish, explained that we had a reservation at the hostel across the street that was not answering us and if he could let us in just to get of the street so we could wait--thank gosh he said yes. Purvi and I passed about 40 minutes in the vacant-eque building that was something out of Home Alone the movie. I decided to try the hostel again at 7:05, only to turn back around because a couple that was standing next to the doorbell decided to start making out.
Basically, I had the luck to go try again when another women was entering. I proped the door open slightly so Purvi and I could transfer our stuff into the doorway of the building we were staying at--which was the first place we encountered with heat since the bus!!!! We finally got into the hostel after 10 more minutes of confusion. We discovered that they don´t have a reception until 9 am! Thank goodness I had more luck to ring the bell at a time when someone happened to be here. He let us in and then litterly left 5 minutes later. Purvi and I are now going to eat some breakfast before taking a LONG nap in our room that will be ready in another hour. :-)
We are alive, well and have an awesome story!
Morgan
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
The Morgan you know and love
Hello everyone,
This is going to be a quick, yet substantial blog...I have to walk to choir practice in 12 minutes.
My blog is a bit deceiving. I've have only posted the positives of my experience; the truth is these first few weeks have been extremely difficult for me. I was not happy of my choice in study abroad location. I am in a big city with very limited natural scenery. I am in a building on a side street that is two stories tall—not university. Also, as most of you know I was looking forward to a bigger university experience, what I got was 46 American students—I am not the international student I wanted to be. I am an American in an American program submerged (more like awkwardly placed) in a Spanish culture. Admittedly, I did not do enough research on this program. I know this now. Also, I’ve realized I prefer the Latin American culture to the Spanish culture. In my opinion, the LA culture is much more inviting and hospitable, while the Spanish culture is more formal and slightly detached (in regards to communities).
Those who know me know that I am not one to settle, nor am I one to focus on the negatives (although, I have been doing that quite a bit). What have I done to change this experience into something that I will be happy with: sulked, complained, and cried for a while, then took action. I tried transferring to a different program—this was eliminated as an option because the other programs already started and the refund of my tuition would NOT be in my favor. Then I talked to the director of the program here, and she helped me out a bit.
I want immersion, which I am not getting from my peers, so I joined a community choir. I am going to travel to Austria with them in December! It has always been a dream of mine to perform in Europe…so there’s one thing to cross off my bucket list. Also, I’m going to be meeting with a Spanish student every week for casual conversation, so that I can improve my Spanish. I hope to be making some Spanish friends soon through the choir. Also, I’m going to try to join a dance class at the Universidad Catolica (the same university that offers the choir)—ultimate goal: make Spanish friends and learn Spanish!
So here is the BIG news. I’ve decided to come back to Wisconsin for next semester. In other words, I am not studying abroad for two consecutive semesters. I’ve done a lot of thinking…I feel that for the first time in my life I am making a well thought out decision, rather than always going and going without stop. During the semester at Norbs I want to make time to explore my career options. The truth is I have so many interests that I need to hone in on what makes me happy (not to mention what helps the bank account a little). I feel that if I rush off to study abroad again I could ruin an important experience by not doing sufficient self reflection beforehand. Also, I made the decision because I am taking charge of my finances. I have been so lucky to always have my mother and brother to help me with finances; however, with the economy the way that it is, their help has been limited. I would feel much better to save some money and pay some bills before having to spend all of my funds again on a second semester in Spain.
My decision to remain at St. Norbert next semester does NOT mean I will not be going abroad again. I always can go Fall Semester of 2011—I’ve already talked to my counselors about that J Also, I am happy to have had this lapse in composure because it got me thinking in what other ways I could get an “abroad” experience. I love the idea of an international internship—something with Spanish would be preferred, but anywhere in the world would be amazing. Also, I’ve already learned what I can bring back to St. Norbert. I would love to start a program with the international students at Norbs where I would plan weekend and long break outings for them. I realized here that it is sometimes difficult, time consuming, and expensive to plan your own trips. I want to make their experience a little more comfortable and be there native friend J
Despite the rocky start, I am forging my own smooth path.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Welcome to my life
Hola, hola de Valencia!
Welcome to my life: my new, adventurous, tranquil life in Espana. My new life comes complete with hours and hours of walking to where ever I want to go, which is just the way I like it! Who needs buses and taxis when I can get to where I'm going by walking at most 45 minutes. Yes, yes, 45 minutes seems like a lot, but when everything is so beauty I really rather prefer it.
I walk 40 minutes to my University everyday. I choose to walk through el Rio (the river). Don't worry, although there is an abundance of religious influence throughout the city it has not rubbed off on me so much so that I am able to walk on water or anything like that. El Rio used to be a river. It flooded in the 1960s. After much of the city incurred water damage city officials decided to reroute the river leaving behind a stretch of bare land. Now el Rio is a BEAUTIFUL park (how's that for a history lesson). There are various sitting areas, fountains, running/biking tracks, sculptures, benches to read (one of my favorites) or just people watch. I love this walk because I get to clear my head every morning. Yesterday my Spanish brother and I went for a lovely bike ride through part of it! Que divertido! I'm going to attempt waking up early tomorrow to go for my first run--since I've been here it's been too hot to run...which brings me to my next point--el calor (heat).
OK. So who is the biggest dork you know? Of course all should be answering "Morgan." Why is it that I am the silliest person you know? On second thought, don't answer that! I will tell you. Only I can suffer a severe case of sun poisoning/heat rash the third day I arrived in Valencia. Oh yes, that is right. Day three was spent on a beach and exploring an old castle in Pensicola. That was a day! I delayed the bus departure time because I (only I) would receive a humbled and VERY unexpected monthly visitor...I'm counting on all of you to clarify the ambiguity ;-) Upon returning from this trip I noticed my skin was quite red; but NO, that did not stop me from spending the next day at another beach sitting in the sun. Please keep in mind I put on sunscreen each time...when I returned home that day my prison time began. I had an entire body rash that itched. Oh, how it itched! I could not leave the house for leisurely strolls, which I wanted to do because the heat would make it unbearable; nevertheless, I could not miss the first day of school. On the first day, it must have been 90s or 100s I went to school wearing a cotton sweater--my skin could not tolerate exposure to the sun. I am happy to inform you that after a day of covering my body in anti-itching powder (provided by mi madre) and apply pure aloe vera, which was a whopping 12 euro for a 6 oz bottle and almost impossible to find, I am in the final stages of recovery! The Mediterranean sun is too hot and is out for too long--it mocks me. I miss/appreciate Wisconsin weather so much more now :-)
What more to say? How about a list of random things I would like to recap.
1) Coolest thing I've seen yet: A young woman walking a rabbit on a leash throughout el Rio!
2) First night of dancing: Yesterday. AWESOME. I am that crazy American girl that everyone is just in awe of because I don't stop. lol.
3) My level of class: Every student in the program got a free alcoholic beverage at the club last night. I tried it...I had like 3 sips poured it into another girl's glass, kept my cup the rest of the night and refilled it with water from the bathroom sink because I did not want to spend 2 euro on a bottle of water.
4) Simplicity is lovely: Second night I was here went out with my lovely freshman year RA, Rachel. We took the metro (my first time using it in Europe!!! Surprisingly very clean. Also, I love that they have digital signs telling when the next train will be there--sweet!) to the pizzaria where her boyfriend works. I had REAL Italian pizza because the owner is from Italy! Also tried Sangria for the first time...not bad, but not great. lol. Rachel's boyfriend took me for a ride on the back of his moped!!! My fantasy of riding through Europe on the back of a moped is complete. Thank you, Ruben :-)
5) My biggest culture shock: Being in a modern country. Having technology and the same luxuries of the U.S. I am used to third world countries where I don't know when I will be able to contact home. Here it is as easy as turning on the computer. I don't know what to do with myself...I'm accustomed to isolation. Hahahaha.
6) Greatest feeling: Speaking ONLY Spanish the first day I was here then having to write an e-mail in English and having great difficulties.
7) The superior goal for my stay here: Learn how to balance my life. School and social life. I do not want to live a life of stress and overexertion like I usually do in the States. Here everything is so laid back. It's frustrating at times (when shops close because the workers are going home to eat lunch and take a siesta), but definitely something to be admired.
More to come soon! Lots more has/is happening, but it's beddy bye for me. Buenas noches todos
Welcome to my life: my new, adventurous, tranquil life in Espana. My new life comes complete with hours and hours of walking to where ever I want to go, which is just the way I like it! Who needs buses and taxis when I can get to where I'm going by walking at most 45 minutes. Yes, yes, 45 minutes seems like a lot, but when everything is so beauty I really rather prefer it.
I walk 40 minutes to my University everyday. I choose to walk through el Rio (the river). Don't worry, although there is an abundance of religious influence throughout the city it has not rubbed off on me so much so that I am able to walk on water or anything like that. El Rio used to be a river. It flooded in the 1960s. After much of the city incurred water damage city officials decided to reroute the river leaving behind a stretch of bare land. Now el Rio is a BEAUTIFUL park (how's that for a history lesson). There are various sitting areas, fountains, running/biking tracks, sculptures, benches to read (one of my favorites) or just people watch. I love this walk because I get to clear my head every morning. Yesterday my Spanish brother and I went for a lovely bike ride through part of it! Que divertido! I'm going to attempt waking up early tomorrow to go for my first run--since I've been here it's been too hot to run...which brings me to my next point--el calor (heat).
OK. So who is the biggest dork you know? Of course all should be answering "Morgan." Why is it that I am the silliest person you know? On second thought, don't answer that! I will tell you. Only I can suffer a severe case of sun poisoning/heat rash the third day I arrived in Valencia. Oh yes, that is right. Day three was spent on a beach and exploring an old castle in Pensicola. That was a day! I delayed the bus departure time because I (only I) would receive a humbled and VERY unexpected monthly visitor...I'm counting on all of you to clarify the ambiguity ;-) Upon returning from this trip I noticed my skin was quite red; but NO, that did not stop me from spending the next day at another beach sitting in the sun. Please keep in mind I put on sunscreen each time...when I returned home that day my prison time began. I had an entire body rash that itched. Oh, how it itched! I could not leave the house for leisurely strolls, which I wanted to do because the heat would make it unbearable; nevertheless, I could not miss the first day of school. On the first day, it must have been 90s or 100s I went to school wearing a cotton sweater--my skin could not tolerate exposure to the sun. I am happy to inform you that after a day of covering my body in anti-itching powder (provided by mi madre) and apply pure aloe vera, which was a whopping 12 euro for a 6 oz bottle and almost impossible to find, I am in the final stages of recovery! The Mediterranean sun is too hot and is out for too long--it mocks me. I miss/appreciate Wisconsin weather so much more now :-)
What more to say? How about a list of random things I would like to recap.
1) Coolest thing I've seen yet: A young woman walking a rabbit on a leash throughout el Rio!
2) First night of dancing: Yesterday. AWESOME. I am that crazy American girl that everyone is just in awe of because I don't stop. lol.
3) My level of class: Every student in the program got a free alcoholic beverage at the club last night. I tried it...I had like 3 sips poured it into another girl's glass, kept my cup the rest of the night and refilled it with water from the bathroom sink because I did not want to spend 2 euro on a bottle of water.
4) Simplicity is lovely: Second night I was here went out with my lovely freshman year RA, Rachel. We took the metro (my first time using it in Europe!!! Surprisingly very clean. Also, I love that they have digital signs telling when the next train will be there--sweet!) to the pizzaria where her boyfriend works. I had REAL Italian pizza because the owner is from Italy! Also tried Sangria for the first time...not bad, but not great. lol. Rachel's boyfriend took me for a ride on the back of his moped!!! My fantasy of riding through Europe on the back of a moped is complete. Thank you, Ruben :-)
5) My biggest culture shock: Being in a modern country. Having technology and the same luxuries of the U.S. I am used to third world countries where I don't know when I will be able to contact home. Here it is as easy as turning on the computer. I don't know what to do with myself...I'm accustomed to isolation. Hahahaha.
6) Greatest feeling: Speaking ONLY Spanish the first day I was here then having to write an e-mail in English and having great difficulties.
7) The superior goal for my stay here: Learn how to balance my life. School and social life. I do not want to live a life of stress and overexertion like I usually do in the States. Here everything is so laid back. It's frustrating at times (when shops close because the workers are going home to eat lunch and take a siesta), but definitely something to be admired.
More to come soon! Lots more has/is happening, but it's beddy bye for me. Buenas noches todos
Friday, August 13, 2010
Preparing for a new journey
Hi Friends and Family,
I've started this blog so all of you can follow me on my estimated 1o month journey throughout Spain and other countries I travel to when I am in Europe.
I have never done a blog before, I'm not quite sure what to it will transform into. I guess this blog is a whole new journey too. I ask that all of you be honest, patient, and open to whatever I post over the coming months.
Let's start!
Two days ago I received an email from my host mom. Her name is Blanca. She seemed very nice in her e-mail. I am so excited to meet her! My first semester will be in Valencia. I have some anxiety about traveling to Spain; I have to get off my plane and get my baggage at the La Guardia Airport in New York then travel to the JFK Airport where I will have to recheck all of my baggage and go through security. I have four hours to make it all happen. I don't think I will be relaxed until I am on my plane to Valencia. Any suggestions on how I might make this work would be appreciated!
Cheers!
Morgan
I've started this blog so all of you can follow me on my estimated 1o month journey throughout Spain and other countries I travel to when I am in Europe.
I have never done a blog before, I'm not quite sure what to it will transform into. I guess this blog is a whole new journey too. I ask that all of you be honest, patient, and open to whatever I post over the coming months.
Let's start!
Two days ago I received an email from my host mom. Her name is Blanca. She seemed very nice in her e-mail. I am so excited to meet her! My first semester will be in Valencia. I have some anxiety about traveling to Spain; I have to get off my plane and get my baggage at the La Guardia Airport in New York then travel to the JFK Airport where I will have to recheck all of my baggage and go through security. I have four hours to make it all happen. I don't think I will be relaxed until I am on my plane to Valencia. Any suggestions on how I might make this work would be appreciated!
Cheers!
Morgan
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