The church bells tolled this morning loudly through my window calling all the townspeople to worship. I counted the tolls and to my surprise realized that there were way to many. Figuring the bell toller was nursing a hangover, i forgave him and rolled over trying to get back in touch witht he blackness of my eyelids. The stresses, projects,and drama of this week fatigued me greatly and i begged myself to please allow for another moment of solitude before the beginng of a busy day. However once the light hit my pupils i was done for lacing up my sneakers to hit the pavement, a sunday morning ritual a cleanser from a weekend of late nights, dancing, and the occasional sangria festivities. As my feet hit the pavement, i watched the families scatter to and fro pushing their bundles of joy in overly expensive carriages. It amazes me how the children here dress, the baby buggies, and the general attention to detail when dressing children. I watched both the young and the old meander about the old cities, the old women clutched tightly to their sunkissed and wrinkled partners, decked out to the the extreme in their fur coats, bright red lipstick and matching hats. This is sunday in Spain, it is a day dedicated to families and they do indeed make that obvious with their glares as i run through the streets working out. The women look at me as to say ÿou go girl, while the men on the other hand are bewildered that i :
a: am not pushing a stroller
b: am in shape , unlike the other spanish women
c: am not clutched ever so tightly to a strapping young man that more or less would be in better shape than me
d: working out on a sunday and not at home preparing a lovely meal for my family. ( i was told the other day by an old shopkeeper that at my age, a healthy 23, i should be settled down by now).
Men tip their hats as i run by while others just stare in amazement. I asked a local friend why such the reactiont o which he cooly replied; oh men are smarter than women they shouldnt work out but cook and clean: i NEARLY CHOKED on my tapas, as i tried to clear my throat for air. AHEM it amazed me. This general mind frame in Spain i have been informed is a direct product of the Franco Era, a dodgy subject around here.
Needless to say as i ran, listening to the tripolar cd, recounting on my week of endless projects, classes, and teaching practicals. I was amazed to stop and think as i went to cross the street that i managed to get it all done. I smiled in my victory and reflected again. This week i taught the Elementary Evening class which were the most unbehaved gremlins ever as well as the Preintermediate class which proved to be a rather sophisticated bunch of unique personalities. To the extent that the other instructor and i went out for tapas with them and fought off their impending advances. He was being hit on my a busty overweight spanish woman who loved english men while i myself tried to save my honor from the grips of a local pilot in training whose good looks and game could easily be intoxicating for the inexperienced woman. We both i am happy to report escaped with our honor intact. Additionally this week we also had a series of projects due in addition to starting to think about job opportunities after the course ends. We were given a series of charts in addition to their hiring season and held private meetings to discuss our options or any other questions we might have. The thought of staying in Spain intoxicates me as i look into the very many possible next steps. I have had the help of a local man with many connections and we have discussed which ones would be the best fit for me, the most beneficial. Exploring my options puts me into a dreamlike state, as everything else tends to melt away as i daydream about staying in Europe. The decision wont come easy and is not a central focus as i have alot of work to do today, exams to pass before i can relinquish in this fantasy more. Until them satisfaction will come to me in the sheer possibility, a large bag of sweets from the local pastelleria, and a rendezvous with a local who may provide me with the answers i need.
xoxo
Worldy woman
Song of the day:
Stabilo
Everyday
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
El facil silencio
I awoke this morning to the sound of gushing water. Seeing as i just woke up my frist instinct was to head straight to the bathrrom upon hearing such a sound but instead i remained still. I opened my window just a crack which voluminized the sound of a terrential downpour. All in the monastery was quite not a noise aside from the water pouring in through our center courtyard opening. I left the security of my bed to witness such a celebration of water free flowing through the open aired roof as the other tenants huddled in their bed happy to have a morning which they could rest. This week has proved to be a difficult one as most of us have been pushed to inches, some centimeters, of our breaking point. The overwhelming work, multiple projects, and stresses of living with adverse individuals had played hard on all of us tenants and was clearly written on our sleep deprived, tired, and fragile faces. Yet in this new profession to which we are all striving for proper certification, this sometimes can be the life.
While the entirity of us march back and forth between projects a single thought flickers in the back of our overworked brains. " What will i do when the course is done". For some of us living in the monastery a clear answer can easily be provided. But those of us, myself included who have opportunities back in their home country as well as opportunities here are left to ponder this lurking question, the purple elephant in the room, when we have a freee moment away from making lesson plans and cutting out stast from construction paper. My biggest decision in all of this comes down to a single word to which i feel the average person, and boldly the average American lacks: happiness. I am not refering to happiness, but True happiness, the ability to be in contact with your soul and inner being and instead of finding it weighed down with the pressures of life, sadness, and societies norms, to be ignited in full flame. Since coming to Spain i have found that my inner fire, that had been burning so very brightly when i lived in Italy as well as my senior year of college came to dwindle with worry and the real world. My visit to Spain has rekindled the inner spirit and for that i am truly grateful and happy beyond to be expressed in simple English. As a great man once said " Often times in life our inner fire goes out and is extinguished. That is until we come into contact with certain individuals who reignite the inner spirit and for that we should truly be thankful."
xoxo
Worldly Woman
Song of the day
Song: Breathing
Artisit: Ingrid Michaelangelson
While the entirity of us march back and forth between projects a single thought flickers in the back of our overworked brains. " What will i do when the course is done". For some of us living in the monastery a clear answer can easily be provided. But those of us, myself included who have opportunities back in their home country as well as opportunities here are left to ponder this lurking question, the purple elephant in the room, when we have a freee moment away from making lesson plans and cutting out stast from construction paper. My biggest decision in all of this comes down to a single word to which i feel the average person, and boldly the average American lacks: happiness. I am not refering to happiness, but True happiness, the ability to be in contact with your soul and inner being and instead of finding it weighed down with the pressures of life, sadness, and societies norms, to be ignited in full flame. Since coming to Spain i have found that my inner fire, that had been burning so very brightly when i lived in Italy as well as my senior year of college came to dwindle with worry and the real world. My visit to Spain has rekindled the inner spirit and for that i am truly grateful and happy beyond to be expressed in simple English. As a great man once said " Often times in life our inner fire goes out and is extinguished. That is until we come into contact with certain individuals who reignite the inner spirit and for that we should truly be thankful."
xoxo
Worldly Woman
Song of the day
Song: Breathing
Artisit: Ingrid Michaelangelson
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
La cosa mas important en la vida.
I woke up this morning at 730, the longest i had slept in a while after an interesting evening in the city. Yesterday i taught the pre-intermediate class which went pretty well to the point that myself in addition to the other instructor were invited out for tapas. However given spanish custom and the difference between men and women in general in spain, tapas were not the only thing on the mind of our oh so innocent students. Keith, the other educator and myself were hit on the whole evening. He dealt with the advances of a large barely bilingual woman with large breasts while i fought off the advances of a Spanaird who refused to believe that i could bench given my slimmer frame. We spent the evening jabbing eachother in the legs are they became friendlier and friendlier and free drinks continued to land in our empty spaces on the table in addition to the piles of tapas, a nice absorbant for the alchohol being force fed. Needless to say we escaped unharmed, myself with my honor and the offer of three dates this week and keith with scratches clutching to my protected hand. We laughed into the night as we walked back to the residencia eager to tell the housemates of our savage students.
This morning i found myself with teh ability to sleep in which allowed me to go to the gym to get a much needed stress releasing workout in addition to a stop at the local grocery store for tonight´s dinner. A smile came across my face in the grocery store when an old feeble man helped me pick out some good apples and tipped his hat towards me in respect as i mangled from my run returned the smile gratefully. The remainder of my day got better to include dancing in the shower to the Eat Pray Love soundtrack which provided clairty on my imprending decision. I danced vibrantly as i watched the steam roll out the wooden window and blen into the view of the old Albazyin village. Happiness as the song played on .. DOg days are over, time to breathe, and be free oh free oh ahhhhhhh. I sang along. Today for lunch i found myself lost in a plate of homemade paella in good company with two fellow trainee. It was delcious as i tested my food boundaires trying mussels, squid, crawfish, and baby crabs the size of a silver dollar. Most of these new flavors danced on my pallet while the crunching of the bones and crawfish shell in my mouth did the exact opposite. Not to worry though a quick trip to Casa de pastelles solved this problem as i whisked off to phonology class, cake in hand with the intent of upon its completion to buy the 15 euro boots in town with Lindsey.
Today i can´t stop smiling and feeling the warmth all around me despite the impending weather and dark overcast skies. I am happy, i am laughing, i am carefree and am enjoying life. It took me three weeks to reach this state, but the best things in life i reckon are worth waiting for. :)
Besos a todos
Worldy Woman
Song of the day
: Dog Days are Over
This morning i found myself with teh ability to sleep in which allowed me to go to the gym to get a much needed stress releasing workout in addition to a stop at the local grocery store for tonight´s dinner. A smile came across my face in the grocery store when an old feeble man helped me pick out some good apples and tipped his hat towards me in respect as i mangled from my run returned the smile gratefully. The remainder of my day got better to include dancing in the shower to the Eat Pray Love soundtrack which provided clairty on my imprending decision. I danced vibrantly as i watched the steam roll out the wooden window and blen into the view of the old Albazyin village. Happiness as the song played on .. DOg days are over, time to breathe, and be free oh free oh ahhhhhhh. I sang along. Today for lunch i found myself lost in a plate of homemade paella in good company with two fellow trainee. It was delcious as i tested my food boundaires trying mussels, squid, crawfish, and baby crabs the size of a silver dollar. Most of these new flavors danced on my pallet while the crunching of the bones and crawfish shell in my mouth did the exact opposite. Not to worry though a quick trip to Casa de pastelles solved this problem as i whisked off to phonology class, cake in hand with the intent of upon its completion to buy the 15 euro boots in town with Lindsey.
Today i can´t stop smiling and feeling the warmth all around me despite the impending weather and dark overcast skies. I am happy, i am laughing, i am carefree and am enjoying life. It took me three weeks to reach this state, but the best things in life i reckon are worth waiting for. :)
Besos a todos
Worldy Woman
Song of the day
: Dog Days are Over
Sunday, January 23, 2011
como se siente depende del mente
The coldness creeps in through the small crack left in my window as the sounds of church bells toll in the distance in the monastery. All is quiet, all is calm. The coldness grips and clings to my bones, stealing my breath away as i watch the air turn to white in exhalation. Rest does not come easy to me as i creep lower under hiding beanth the hues of my orange blanket. The solidarity of the monastery as well as the room structure i have found key catalysts in my daily reflection. It is amazing that such silence can invoke in all of us a series of reflection as we try to rub the sleep from our exhausted eyes. I walk to the terrace to see the village blanketed in a cold front that chills me to the bones. I shiver as i wrap myself closer in my wool scarf, trying to conserve what body heat i may have left. I take a long sip of my dark Moorish coffee as i lift my head to the sky as in some hope that a sun beam will come down and warm me. I feel so alive yet so dead as i rest my fatigue in an old wooden chair. The Sierra Nevada isnt visible today as it too has become lost beneath the blanket and the cold. I feel my heart quicken as it tries to warm my body while a north wind blows and gently tosses my hair about my face, awakening the inner spirit. I draw my knees into my chest sipping my coffee i am lost in thought as i gaze at the Moorish arches and cobblestone streets.
I gaze out reflecting on the fragility of the architecture comparing it quietly to the human mind. The wind dances and carries a series of leaves on the cobblestones as my head races in the same matter, a series of thoughts and emotions. My eyes reveal contemplation to any bystander should they gaze long enough. I am wondering, weighing, wishing and searching for clarity. The old Albaczyin village provides a perfect escape to do just that. I smile relinquishing in the fact that i am in Spain, pursuing my dreams on my own and succeeding. My sense of inner strength and accomplishment warms me as a challenging wind blows.
A creak at the door produces a fellow trainee tired from previous nights activities who exclaims tidings of Good Morning and a comment on the weather. " There is a daze, you can't make out anything in the distance." To which i smile and reply, " No, no for the first time its all so clear."
I gaze out reflecting on the fragility of the architecture comparing it quietly to the human mind. The wind dances and carries a series of leaves on the cobblestones as my head races in the same matter, a series of thoughts and emotions. My eyes reveal contemplation to any bystander should they gaze long enough. I am wondering, weighing, wishing and searching for clarity. The old Albaczyin village provides a perfect escape to do just that. I smile relinquishing in the fact that i am in Spain, pursuing my dreams on my own and succeeding. My sense of inner strength and accomplishment warms me as a challenging wind blows.
A creak at the door produces a fellow trainee tired from previous nights activities who exclaims tidings of Good Morning and a comment on the weather. " There is a daze, you can't make out anything in the distance." To which i smile and reply, " No, no for the first time its all so clear."
Friday, January 21, 2011
TGIF
BEEP BEEP BEEP. The alarm goes off and i did not spring up from my bed as i normally do. Instead i rolled over as to verify such false statements. The morning has arrived and as i try to convince myself to leave the warmth of my bed, i can only pray and beg for an hour more. The week is coming to a close and everyone in the residencia is pleased to hear such news. The majority of the house went to the local bar to relax after such a stressful week and arrived home around 2 am dancing on the railings and under the influuence of the thing we crave most, some freedom and a little wine. The course as intense as it is, has proven to be beneficial which reflects in the successful passing of the two of my lesson plans. This evening i go before the board to discuss my progress and receive my notes and placements thus far. To take the edge off of such a confrontation i have accepted an invite to move my bom bom to the beat of Flamenco. Thats right this bristol blonde will be trying to master the steps and turns of Spain's most prized dance. Perhaps i will take a video and pictures for your enjoyment and comedic relief.
Tomorrow i plan to explore all that Granada has to offer, walking aimlessly from the time the sun comes up until the evening when we will meet up with a few of our friends to go dancing and put our moves to the test. Im looking forward to the freedom to window shop, drink some coffee, get lost in a suiza de chocolate and a good thought, and be bale to see Granada for the gem it really is.
5 Hours till freedom and ticking
Besos a todos
S
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uImsPI4aX0
Tomorrow i plan to explore all that Granada has to offer, walking aimlessly from the time the sun comes up until the evening when we will meet up with a few of our friends to go dancing and put our moves to the test. Im looking forward to the freedom to window shop, drink some coffee, get lost in a suiza de chocolate and a good thought, and be bale to see Granada for the gem it really is.
5 Hours till freedom and ticking
Besos a todos
S
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uImsPI4aX0
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
J is for Jueves
Buenas dias a todos! Gracias a dios que hoy esta jueves y tenemos una clase mas. This morning i have student teaching and will be with the Elementary class teaching them about famous people anf grammar tenses. I have quite the busy day today which is totally against the Spanish life style here. I will not be meandering to class at 12 like the toher but have been up since 7, javafied ( my new word), gone over my lesson plan, showered (in the arctic water, our furnace broke), and am listening to music. Today i teach from 9-11. I have a review session from 12-1, an ISP interview from 1-2, a 30 minute break, class from 3-4, and then i am done for the evening and will be able to rest the most overused part of my body.. my brain :) Tonight we will go out for tapas to celebrate the end to our busy day and perhaps have a potluck at the house.
Friday can not come soon enough as we are planning to go to a latin dance place to take a class or to in the art of dancing and seduction. I personally would not want to see half the men in our house advancing towards me in tight black pants and rose in mouth. I'm a hopeless romantic but we all have our standards. HA Additionally a few of the girls in the house will go shopping together this weekend to the Moroccan market as well as to the clothing district which boasts a 70% off rate :) A nice temptation for any stressed woman in dire need of a little fresh air, chocolate, and clearance deals.
I'm off to teach Elementary, it will be interesting to explain who Marilyn Monroe is and how she got to fame... Perhaps i should leave out the tidbit about the Kennedy family.
Have a great day!
xoxox
El rubio.
Song: What else is there
Artist: Royksopp
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3njX4nSO5U
Friday can not come soon enough as we are planning to go to a latin dance place to take a class or to in the art of dancing and seduction. I personally would not want to see half the men in our house advancing towards me in tight black pants and rose in mouth. I'm a hopeless romantic but we all have our standards. HA Additionally a few of the girls in the house will go shopping together this weekend to the Moroccan market as well as to the clothing district which boasts a 70% off rate :) A nice temptation for any stressed woman in dire need of a little fresh air, chocolate, and clearance deals.
I'm off to teach Elementary, it will be interesting to explain who Marilyn Monroe is and how she got to fame... Perhaps i should leave out the tidbit about the Kennedy family.
Have a great day!
xoxox
El rubio.
Song: What else is there
Artist: Royksopp
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3njX4nSO5U
And so it begins
Its the running of the bulls! This week has been utter and complete madness for us trainees here in Granada. The course has increased substantially as we are thrown into the deep end, doing student teaching, ISP project, MAC project, and observation classes. In addition this week we begin intense courses of grammar and the infamous job search. Needless to say most of us are dealing with our new fouind tasks by
a. making friends at the local pub
b. eating large ammounts of chocolate
c. screaming on the terrace, like in the movie "Garden State"
d. slowly organizing but beginning to twitch.
Yet its not something that college, rowing, and previous experience can't get you through, that and 1.25 Euro wine. ( such a fabulous selection here).
Last night i had my first teaching 10 Spanish beginner students, which was a small challenge as i wanted to clarify everything in Spanish. The class i felt went very well and given my feedback today, it was good i just needed to smile more as i was very direct, concrete, and concise with my teaching, a thing they dont see in many young trainees. Instead of being bubbly and losing control of the class, i was somehwat stern and clear. Which i think its a good thing unless you are referencing figures from World War II. Needless to say i teach again tomorrow morning at 9 am to Elementary and will receive my materials shortly to lesson plan.
Sinc ehaving moved to Spain, i have been very happy to be back in Europe and have started to compile a list of all things Spanish, to which i have the beginning:
1. Spanish women do not work out.
2. You cant flush anything, no toilet paper, NADA
3. When shopping dont put things back on the rack simply throw it at the sad people who are employed to do that for you.
4. Cobblestone are managable for morning runs, and the men will not outwardly cat call you.
5. Canned tuna may be cheap but will send you to the lew often.
6. When ordering tapas, do not get the cheese it tastes like old shoes,.
7. Sleeping in your jacket ids the trend in spain as the furnace breaks regularly due to delicate piping.
8. Old ladies wear fur jackets, walk in groups of 3, and dont consider passing them.. apparently its rude.
Buen Dia a todos!
Song: La camisa negra
Artist: Juanes
a. making friends at the local pub
b. eating large ammounts of chocolate
c. screaming on the terrace, like in the movie "Garden State"
d. slowly organizing but beginning to twitch.
Yet its not something that college, rowing, and previous experience can't get you through, that and 1.25 Euro wine. ( such a fabulous selection here).
Last night i had my first teaching 10 Spanish beginner students, which was a small challenge as i wanted to clarify everything in Spanish. The class i felt went very well and given my feedback today, it was good i just needed to smile more as i was very direct, concrete, and concise with my teaching, a thing they dont see in many young trainees. Instead of being bubbly and losing control of the class, i was somehwat stern and clear. Which i think its a good thing unless you are referencing figures from World War II. Needless to say i teach again tomorrow morning at 9 am to Elementary and will receive my materials shortly to lesson plan.
Sinc ehaving moved to Spain, i have been very happy to be back in Europe and have started to compile a list of all things Spanish, to which i have the beginning:
1. Spanish women do not work out.
2. You cant flush anything, no toilet paper, NADA
3. When shopping dont put things back on the rack simply throw it at the sad people who are employed to do that for you.
4. Cobblestone are managable for morning runs, and the men will not outwardly cat call you.
5. Canned tuna may be cheap but will send you to the lew often.
6. When ordering tapas, do not get the cheese it tastes like old shoes,.
7. Sleeping in your jacket ids the trend in spain as the furnace breaks regularly due to delicate piping.
8. Old ladies wear fur jackets, walk in groups of 3, and dont consider passing them.. apparently its rude.
Buen Dia a todos!
Song: La camisa negra
Artist: Juanes
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
1st Day of Teaching
Today is my frist day of teaching! I had been up late preparing my lesson and also woke up before the sun today to finish the lesson. To ease the tension i went for a run this morning only to find that living on a mountain can definently kick your a**. Needless to say i feel pretty prepared to teach the class, which will be a group of adults that are beginners. I observed the class previously in which they had difficulty pronouncing the word "fork".. it sounded like... well.. ya know. Anyway it should be very interesting to say the least! I heard a great song today when i was running that put a pep in my step, caused me to dance on the terrazza in the sunshine and in the kitchen while making lunch. Perhaps i will teach the song to the class tonight and will post it below for your enjoyment. The rest of day is spent doing lesson, teaching prep and then teaching tonight. Afterward i am going out for Tapas to hopefully celoebrate a successful completition of day 1 of teaching as the rest of my week will be very hectic. The things you are passionate about are always worth it in the end.
Buen dia a todos
El rubio en Espana
Worldly woman
Cancion del dia
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyOs50NE8u4
Have a great day everyone!
Buen dia a todos
El rubio en Espana
Worldly woman
Cancion del dia
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyOs50NE8u4
Have a great day everyone!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Sunday, January 16, 2011
El dia sagrado
My first week in Spain is officially complete. I awoke this morning to the sound of birds chirping outside my window and the pitter patter of passerbys running trying to make it to mass on time. The bell tolls in the tower calling all to prayer, a sense of calmness blankets the entire village as the sun shines brightly in the sky and creeps through my window. My room is dark, the large wooden shutters shut out the day and it is easy to see how the other residents in the program can sleep until the late afternoon. The monastery itself has a certain feeling as you walk along barefoot on the cold stone floors to the kitchen to get some liquid addiction and rub the tire from our eyes. The sun shines in the sky today as people below scatter about in their sunday best. I decided today that given my upbringing it is only appropriate to have a nice large family meal as a house or a group. If there is anything i have learned from the wonderful people in my family it is how to cook and also the simplicity of togetherness.
Living in Europe again reminds of how much i missed this place. The simplicity and appreciation of life is something i feel gets lost under the large pressure of industrialization, success, and status in the USA. Here in Europe people have a general love and appreciation for life, family, and their happiness. It is easy to become infatuated with such a lifestyle to become drunk off of it to which my head is now spinning. I can't help but feel the happiest i have been in a while only after a week here. I do not have a worry in my mind as i listen to spanish guitar and my feet dangle from the balcony, the sun kisses my face gently and i smile. The harmonious strings of the song Salento fill my ears as a light breeze blows the aroma of my strong coffee inviting me to take a sip. Peace at last, it has never felt so good.
Song: Salento
Artist: Rene Aubdry
Living in Europe again reminds of how much i missed this place. The simplicity and appreciation of life is something i feel gets lost under the large pressure of industrialization, success, and status in the USA. Here in Europe people have a general love and appreciation for life, family, and their happiness. It is easy to become infatuated with such a lifestyle to become drunk off of it to which my head is now spinning. I can't help but feel the happiest i have been in a while only after a week here. I do not have a worry in my mind as i listen to spanish guitar and my feet dangle from the balcony, the sun kisses my face gently and i smile. The harmonious strings of the song Salento fill my ears as a light breeze blows the aroma of my strong coffee inviting me to take a sip. Peace at last, it has never felt so good.
Song: Salento
Artist: Rene Aubdry
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Move like this
Its always difficult to live, let alone study in a city with such a rich culture, food, and people. It makes for those of us trying to get some form of education here either extremley difficult or nearly impossible. For the 12 other people that i live with, its clearly a combination of the two. To wake up every morning to see the sierra nevada in the distance and to the listen to the town come alive with street windows filled with discount sales, and the sweet smells of suizas de chocolate in the air, it is a difficult task. Needless to say work needs to get done, and despite my late evening and celebrations for my birthday i am awake at 9 am rip roaring and ready to go. I'll get my work done this morning on the terrace and drink my coffee, write my papers, bask in the southern spain sun and then reward myself with a little exploring.
I can't say that my other roomates have the same plan as i can clearly see one of them past out drunk on the couch in the monastery with spanish cheese puffs on his face. Ah yes a perfect example of a low tolerance.
I'm looking forward to take some time to myself to be able to go to the local music shop this afternoon and get some new music and some language books. Additionally due to the fact that January is the huge sale month in Spain and dresses and jeans are 9 euor everywhere, a trip down the shopping district might be on the list. Though the Spanish have been proven to be fairly hospitable, they are the messiest people when it comes to department stores. The department stores are an absolute MESS! In spain you dont put clothes back on the hanger after you wear them, instead you throw them at these sad sad souls that are paid to put clothes back on the hanger and fold them behind long tables... ALL DAY. If you have ever left your dog in the car and seen the look on its face... BINGO thats EXACTLY what they look like.
Tonight we will go to a flamenco club to learn some Spanish dance and see if we can move as well as they do. ( This ought to be interesting!)
Tomorrow i plan to go to the local market to get some fresh fruits and vegetables to have a nice family dinner as i promised a few individuals, who can neither boil water or cook pasta, to teach them to cook some simple staple dishes. Knowledge is power after all, i mean thats the reason we are all here on the course correct. Well maybe everyone except for cheese puff boy.
Besos y amor.
Wordly Woman
Song: Lo que me gusta a mi
Artist: Juanes
I can't say that my other roomates have the same plan as i can clearly see one of them past out drunk on the couch in the monastery with spanish cheese puffs on his face. Ah yes a perfect example of a low tolerance.
I'm looking forward to take some time to myself to be able to go to the local music shop this afternoon and get some new music and some language books. Additionally due to the fact that January is the huge sale month in Spain and dresses and jeans are 9 euor everywhere, a trip down the shopping district might be on the list. Though the Spanish have been proven to be fairly hospitable, they are the messiest people when it comes to department stores. The department stores are an absolute MESS! In spain you dont put clothes back on the hanger after you wear them, instead you throw them at these sad sad souls that are paid to put clothes back on the hanger and fold them behind long tables... ALL DAY. If you have ever left your dog in the car and seen the look on its face... BINGO thats EXACTLY what they look like.
Tonight we will go to a flamenco club to learn some Spanish dance and see if we can move as well as they do. ( This ought to be interesting!)
Tomorrow i plan to go to the local market to get some fresh fruits and vegetables to have a nice family dinner as i promised a few individuals, who can neither boil water or cook pasta, to teach them to cook some simple staple dishes. Knowledge is power after all, i mean thats the reason we are all here on the course correct. Well maybe everyone except for cheese puff boy.
Besos y amor.
Wordly Woman
Song: Lo que me gusta a mi
Artist: Juanes
Friday, January 14, 2011
Cobblestones and cat calls
The air was frigid this morning and the cobblestone streets were deserted. Despite the hour, the darkness still covered our mountain region which produced little life when i went for my run at 730 am. My feet hit the pavement in a steady pace carefully on the streets. The cobble stones here do not resemble those of Rome or even Florence but rather resemble something like pebbles in a variety of shapes and sizes. The brisk air felt amazing and the peace and quiet was welcoming after a late evening on the terrace with wine, friends, and spanish guitar. The city itself continues to amaze me as i run through the streets making my way down to Plaza Nueva and Via del Colon which is the city atmosphere and resembles a granite version of New York. Despite the darkness many people are scattering to and fro trying to make their connectors. All i can hear is the sound of Juanes and Glen Hansard as i dodge between the poles and the stares of individuals. Women in this country do NOT work out and to see a blonde in Ithaca Spandex tights, running nimbly shocks the men as the woman smile as if to encourage you further. Supression for females had plagued this region for years and you can still see its effects everywhere. The men however do not mock or cat call if anything they smile and say Buenos dias senora, aside from the one that commented on my backside as i ran back to the monastery.
Today we have classes scattered and have the morning to explore the city as all the women in the house search for hairdyers, we have been looking pretty rough the past few days due to electricity issues. Additionally this evening we have decided to go to a Tapa bar and then out dancing to celebrate the end of our first week and in anticipation for the portfolio work we will all be doing this weekend. I will take pictures today as i walk about the town and post them soon, so that you too may also see a slice of paradise.
xoxo
S
Song: Me gustas tu
Artist: Manu Chao
Today we have classes scattered and have the morning to explore the city as all the women in the house search for hairdyers, we have been looking pretty rough the past few days due to electricity issues. Additionally this evening we have decided to go to a Tapa bar and then out dancing to celebrate the end of our first week and in anticipation for the portfolio work we will all be doing this weekend. I will take pictures today as i walk about the town and post them soon, so that you too may also see a slice of paradise.
xoxo
S
Song: Me gustas tu
Artist: Manu Chao
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Dia 4
Hola a todos y buenos dias, gracias a dios hoy esta jueves porque podemos dormir a 12! Today we have the morning off and are able to sleep in and finally catch up on our jet lag, brain malfunctions and for some of us that have a sheer love for whiskey and sing arctic monkeys at 3 am on the balcony.. their hangovers. It is a chilly day here in Granada as i watch motorists ride buy with face masks, gloves, and stylish snowmobiling jackets. One might think that from the works of Don Quijote and infamous pictures that Granada would produce weather like conditions in the south of spain during January. That is incorrect, due to its location nestled between the beach and the Sierra Nevada the atmosphere here resembles that of New England although we are not buried in snow. In addition the stone structure of the Monastery walls and cool stone floors keep this place pretty chilly as we all have resorted to sleeping in layers, buyinghot water bottles, or venturing out in search of more blankets. I'm just happy nobody has resorted to body heat as these walls may be made of stone but are indeed paper thin, as in i can hear my fellow monk next door in the bathroom ( usually at 2:34, 7:00, and 10:00 p.m.) The kid drinks alot of water.
I am happy to report that as of now the battle with the bugs has produced a white flag on the side of the pesky creatures as the insecticida contra las hormigas and excessive scrubbing has warned them off. I can not say the same for the other residents who dealt with them inw hat seems to be a reinactment of the mexican jumping bean dance. Im just glad they wear shoes. Some students begin their teaching today as we are getting adjusted to the numerous assignments including: portfolio, job workshops, resume workshops, individual student projects, learning hungarian ( like i need another language), observations, night time practicals, and of course student teaching. This morning i will take the opportunity to venture to a few places a friend of mine had suggested and perhaps the morrocan market before returning to class prompty at 12 until 10 pm.
Until tomorrow, enjoy the video with a view from my terrace, it is where i shall go now to drink my coffee.
Buen dia a todos.
Worldy Woman
Song: Me fui
Artisit: Bebe
I am happy to report that as of now the battle with the bugs has produced a white flag on the side of the pesky creatures as the insecticida contra las hormigas and excessive scrubbing has warned them off. I can not say the same for the other residents who dealt with them inw hat seems to be a reinactment of the mexican jumping bean dance. Im just glad they wear shoes. Some students begin their teaching today as we are getting adjusted to the numerous assignments including: portfolio, job workshops, resume workshops, individual student projects, learning hungarian ( like i need another language), observations, night time practicals, and of course student teaching. This morning i will take the opportunity to venture to a few places a friend of mine had suggested and perhaps the morrocan market before returning to class prompty at 12 until 10 pm.
Until tomorrow, enjoy the video with a view from my terrace, it is where i shall go now to drink my coffee.
Buen dia a todos.
Worldy Woman
Song: Me fui
Artisit: Bebe
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Day 3
A chill is in the air as i roll out of the bed this morning. I am greeted pleasantly with views from the Alahambra as the cold creeps in through the monastery walls. All is silent and still as trainees begin to rub the sleep from their eyes in search of a liquid energy. The course thus far has been an eye opener for most and forced half of our group to make acquaintances at the local pub whihc in three days they are well known. Between the classes and observations that are required for such a course i find i thard to ventur eou tinto the city. The course itself is very strict with respects to dreess, projects, and teaching plansd but nevertheless willprovide me with great opportunities in return for dedication- Last night i found it easy to sleep as alocal woman advised me some relaxing herbs to seep in water. I drank it without a problem and finally awoke thismorning feeling refreshed and energized.
Today in our course we have a series of classes, observations, in addition to Hungarian lesson classes. They use theis technique to enforce and resinstitute how our students will feel learning a language. I think i might have room in my head for a 5th language, i guess time will tell. In addition to the classes today we will make a trip to the local market to find new supplies for our house as we all cook our own meals, do regular chores, clean the house ansd are responsible for its maintenance. It is like being on an episode of the real world, but in spain and with people over the age of 50.
The bell tolls and calls me back to class, a nice reminder that my day has only begun. I wonder what other treasures await me, as long as its not ants, a surprise test, or a pinching Spanish man, i think i can manage just fine.
Worldly woman
Artist: avett borthers
Song: The beach
Today in our course we have a series of classes, observations, in addition to Hungarian lesson classes. They use theis technique to enforce and resinstitute how our students will feel learning a language. I think i might have room in my head for a 5th language, i guess time will tell. In addition to the classes today we will make a trip to the local market to find new supplies for our house as we all cook our own meals, do regular chores, clean the house ansd are responsible for its maintenance. It is like being on an episode of the real world, but in spain and with people over the age of 50.
The bell tolls and calls me back to class, a nice reminder that my day has only begun. I wonder what other treasures await me, as long as its not ants, a surprise test, or a pinching Spanish man, i think i can manage just fine.
Worldly woman
Artist: avett borthers
Song: The beach
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Day 2
After two days without any form of internet whatsoever i am finally back and running! I am hapy to report that i survived my first two day of classes. The ocurse itself in addition to the program is pretty intense and will be very time consuming needless to say my entire house decided that we will celebrate my 23rd birthday on Friday. The other trainees are reallynice and sweet and tried to celebrate my birthday and posted cards all over my door in addition to a delicious piece of cake. Today we had aother session and it is very time consuming as we had classes this evening until about 9 p.m. I hope that this weekend i will be able to see the city and enjoy all that Granada has to offer and find my own private meat person, bread man, and of course wine store. Im looking forward to having a nice morning and being able to stop and smell the coffee and drink some nice cafe on the terrace in the sun.
In our program w ehave people from all over the world and it gives the course a nice variety. W ehave people from both the east coast and the west coast from the USA in addition to peole from Scotland and the UK. We all have so many different personalities which is nice and keeps the group interesting in addition to our wide range of ages. We all bring alot to thetable and will be bale to share alot with eachother.
Sorry to be short but im utterly exhausted and wil go into detail later now that we don thave to go to sketchy neighborhoods to find some WIFI.
Hugs and Kisses
Worldy Woman
In our program w ehave people from all over the world and it gives the course a nice variety. W ehave people from both the east coast and the west coast from the USA in addition to peole from Scotland and the UK. We all have so many different personalities which is nice and keeps the group interesting in addition to our wide range of ages. We all bring alot to thetable and will be bale to share alot with eachother.
Sorry to be short but im utterly exhausted and wil go into detail later now that we don thave to go to sketchy neighborhoods to find some WIFI.
Hugs and Kisses
Worldy Woman
Router DOWN!
Hi all, just a quick message as i am typing to you all from a very small house with limited internet connection in the south of Spain. There is no internet in my house let alone within a 5 mile radius. I hope that we can communicate soon and catch you up on all of my details! So much to tell since the course has started. Thank you all so much for the birthday wishes, ill read them soon.
Sincerely,
Stefania the bug killing christian.
Song: La tortura
Artist¨: Alejandro Sanz
Sincerely,
Stefania the bug killing christian.
Song: La tortura
Artist¨: Alejandro Sanz
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Residencia
The monastery as imentioned is old and has no fixed light fixtures and if there is, they are all on set timers so you will develop a need to feel comfortbale in the dark. (i can't imagine how much solitude they used to have here) Next door to us is a nunnery to which the legend goes, nobody has ever seen the nuns. They provide a baking service to which you drop your money on a lazy susan, it spins, fresh pastry appear, you write a note saying which you'd like, it spin all wrapped in a box. They dont speak, you never see their faces. Not far from where we are is a nice plaza that has some restaurants. Where i am situated is in albaziyn, the old part of the city with streets so thing cars BARELY pass through them. All is peaceful, allis calm here compared to the hustle and bustle of down below. Yesterday we walked roughly 3 miles to the grocery stores, as unlike Italian custom, supermarkets, restaurants, anything all shuts down for "comida", "siesta" y el dia sagrado. Nothing is open, which willprovide me with a good way to go explore.
There will be 12 of us in the course, 5 of which are already here from all parts of the world and both genders. When asked what inticed them to venture on their own we all seem to come up with the same answer " a change, freesom, ability to find myself". I guess we all share a common goal. The rest of the group will arive today and we have our first house meeting tonight to discuss rules, chores, and have a big meal together. The owners themselves are two brits who came here and never left, they are a comical pair to say the least. The other trainees do not speak much spanish at all let alone another language but i think we all deal witht the same surprises: 1. spanish people are very relaxed compared to italians, 2. the men are alot stockier here. 3. This place is old and you will have bugs and ants, 4. The supermarket provides you with strollers to put your groceries in and seeing large men with them will leave you in side stitches.
Thats all for now, the house is beginning to stir and im off to explore.
xoxo
Worldy woman
ps.
Given its a 500 year old monastery and everything has it quirks, i took the liberty of introducing them this morning to a little thing we call in spanish insecticido por los hornetos y otros insectos, I booked a private room thanks.
Steph 1
Bugs 0
knock on wood
I HAVE ARRIVED! I am happy to report that i have arrived to Granada Spain safe and sound and am moved into my place. Additionally my room is in an old nunnery in which my room is compact and i can touch both walls when i outstretch my hands! The flight was good, it was delayed an hour due tot he fact that mother nature had a serious snow storm! JFK to Madrid was good aside from the child that sat next to me and yacked everywhere on the decent into Madrid. Madrid the city was not what i expected. Also nobody warned me that the whole plane will scream VIVA ESPANA when the tires hit the ground. Needless to say the flight was packed and my first view of the city was between a very large womans butt and the puking child. I met up with the other trainee and we made it here to granada a short taxi ride later. The place im living is very old, archaic set inthe hills and the weather and view is beautiful. I can not wait to explore. Right now we are al going to go to the grocery store since it is closed on sundays! Can't believe i am finally here! Besos a todos!
Worldly woman
Song: Baila morena
Artist: Mana
ps. i killed two bugs
Worldly woman
Song: Baila morena
Artist: Mana
ps. i killed two bugs
Friday, January 7, 2011
TODAYS THE DAY!!!
TODAY IS THE DAY! IT IS FINALLY HERE! In less than 6 hours ( knock on wood, pray to God) i will on my plane to Granada Spain. In these final moments im feeling so excited and relaxed ( thanks to my mother and the eliptical at the gym) i will be able to relax soundly on the plane ride. I am anxious and look forward to meeting up with the other trainees in Madrid Spain and being able to finally arrive at the residencia in one piece! ( Mailing address to be available soon!) I guess now is my time to spread my wings, leave the nest and do a much needed soul searching! Heres to the future and new beginnings! Next post i hope will be from Granada Spain. Sending my love to all.
XOXO
World Traveler
Artist: Yasmin
Song: On my own.
XOXO
World Traveler
Artist: Yasmin
Song: On my own.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Uno.. Dos.. Tres... ESPANA!
Day before my big departure and im rushing to finish my last minute items! I can't believe that i depart tomorrow, this week has been such a whirlwind! However all positive things including an " aceptance" to the MAT program at CCSU in addition to a job offer and happiness with volunteering ahve made my week successful! It amazes me how sometimes good things come to those who wait or in my case .. put foot to... you know. Haha.
So much to do, so little time, but looking forward ot being able to kick up my feet after the following:
Finish packing
Making copies of every document i own that says im healthy, went to college and dont have rabbies.
Send out my other Grad Application to Stony Brook
Eat my weight in my aunt's taco dip.
Ready.. Set..... GO!
Band: Sick Puppies
Song: Change
( for those who don't know, the songs listed below correspond with those that fit my day and mood. I hope you enjoy them as much as i do!)
So much to do, so little time, but looking forward ot being able to kick up my feet after the following:
Finish packing
Making copies of every document i own that says im healthy, went to college and dont have rabbies.
Send out my other Grad Application to Stony Brook
Eat my weight in my aunt's taco dip.
Ready.. Set..... GO!
Band: Sick Puppies
Song: Change
( for those who don't know, the songs listed below correspond with those that fit my day and mood. I hope you enjoy them as much as i do!)
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
2 Days and Counting
You never understand the phrase " time flies" until you are:
1. Too big to wear overalls and get away with it.
2. Are over the age of 16
3. No longer play in the sandbox
4. Graduate college and join the adult world
5. Are moving out of the country in 2 days.
I am close to being all packed, stuffing the bare necessities into a small suitcase for easy transport when i arrive to Spain. It is the final countdown and i am finishing the last minute touches in addition to getting my Graduate Applications out, celebrating my birthday with my wonderful family and frineds, and preparing for the big move. Thank the lord for four things: coffee, good music, love and most importantly support. I have 3 interviews today and a schedule ofmeetings to finish my requirements for GRaduate School and tonight i decided to treat myself to some good polish food and a movie. Hey, work hard, play hard right. :)
Artist: Mumford & Sons
Song: the Cave
1. Too big to wear overalls and get away with it.
2. Are over the age of 16
3. No longer play in the sandbox
4. Graduate college and join the adult world
5. Are moving out of the country in 2 days.
I am close to being all packed, stuffing the bare necessities into a small suitcase for easy transport when i arrive to Spain. It is the final countdown and i am finishing the last minute touches in addition to getting my Graduate Applications out, celebrating my birthday with my wonderful family and frineds, and preparing for the big move. Thank the lord for four things: coffee, good music, love and most importantly support. I have 3 interviews today and a schedule ofmeetings to finish my requirements for GRaduate School and tonight i decided to treat myself to some good polish food and a movie. Hey, work hard, play hard right. :)
Artist: Mumford & Sons
Song: the Cave
Monday, January 3, 2011
5 days and counting!
I can not believe that I have 5 days left in the United Sattes! Where did the time go?! There is so much that i need to get done before i depart and my head is half lost in a whirlwind. but that is why God invented.. THE LIST! Womans best friend when it comes to organizational skills!
I need to:
1. Register with the local embassy
2. Confirms all flight and travel plans.
3. Practica mi espanol.
4. Get grad applications out. Have first cup of coffee
5. Pack
6. charge my international phone
7. Make copies of all of my identification documents.
8. Get a map of Granada.
9. Hook up my computer, test out my new camera, and charge my ipod.
10.Pack.
11. Have 2nd cup of coffee
12. Get a workout in.
13. Pick up Euros
14. Do predeparture information for the program
15. Stock up on toiletries.
16. Board the plan and bon voyage.
so much to do, so little time. Make that 3 coffees actually.
Song of the day: Mentre Tutto Scorre
Artist: Negramaro.
I need to:
1. Register with the local embassy
2. Confirms all flight and travel plans.
3. Practica mi espanol.
4. Get grad applications out. Have first cup of coffee
5. Pack
6. charge my international phone
7. Make copies of all of my identification documents.
8. Get a map of Granada.
9. Hook up my computer, test out my new camera, and charge my ipod.
10.Pack.
11. Have 2nd cup of coffee
12. Get a workout in.
13. Pick up Euros
14. Do predeparture information for the program
15. Stock up on toiletries.
16. Board the plan and bon voyage.
so much to do, so little time. Make that 3 coffees actually.
Song of the day: Mentre Tutto Scorre
Artist: Negramaro.
Your life is like a novel, so why not write one worth reading.
Greetings all. I decided to create a blog to track my adventures as i depart and move to Granada Spain. In this life opportunities like these get presented to us only so often and life is short so why not live it to the fullest. So in 5 days I will be leaving all i know behind to embark on a new adventure in a foreign country to become TEFL certified but also to grow as an individual. I can't wait for the adventures, stories, and experiences to come, and look forward to sharing them all with you.
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