It's The Final Countdown!

Somewhere between the chill of January and the blossoming warmth of April, time whisked into a blur here in Spain. I've been remiss in sharing my adventures here so with sincere apologies and just two months left of school, allow me to catch you up on where I've been, where I'm going, and how my seven months in Spain have been treating me!

This year has been a tapestry of experiences, weaving together moments of growth and unexpected challenges. Living abroad imbues a true sense of capability and independence. Yet, there are still challenges that may never be conquered such as feeling fluent in Spanish and the fourth graders. My days find rhythm in the structured cadence of school, while every moment beyond seems to dance to the day's whims. During the winter months, I cherished the simple joys of afternoons spent in bustling cafes where my friends and I would read and paint watercolors -- pursuits that college scarcely afforded time for. Now, in the spring, I am enjoying the sunny afternoons, admiring spring blossoms, and soaking in my life here as the end nears in sight.

Outside of school, I've continued playing water polo. I am fortunate to be a small part of this diverse and tight-knit team, a mosaic of seasoned players and enthusiastic newcomers (myself, not always enthusiastically). Despite their differences, the team's camaraderie is akin to family, an inspiring testament to the warmth and inclusivity I've encountered throughout my time in Spain. In May, the team is having a weekend retreat in a "Casa Rural" which is a common cabin getaway for friend groups and families to enjoy each other‘s company butttt mostly party together. Since the time change, where the sun sets at 9 I've enjoyed our 8-10pm practices 200x more.

Recently, I've also dedicated time to volunteer work, spending Thursday evenings with Maria Eugenia, an 86-year-old woman who lost her husband a few years ago. Our visits are typically a session of playing Spanish cards with her friends at the community center and have become a cherished ritual, offering glimpses into the life of a different Spanish generation and fostering genuine connection and friendship across ages.

Adding a dash of culinary flair to my routine, I've embarked on a Spanish cooking class at the community center. The class is taught by an established chef in La Rioja who is guiding us through a culinary tour of Spain. Last week we made Riojan artichokes two ways (fried and baked- both with jamón of course) and a honey-walnut milk pudding originally from Navarra. The class is a perfect way to savor my last months here and hone in on both my Spanish and cooking skills with locals and friends!

(They kindly welcomed my sister to class while she visited!)

Easter break brought a delightful interlude as my sister came out to visit! We met up in the Azores, a picturesque archipelago off the coast of Portugal. The islands have been described as the "Hawaii of Europe" and "if Ireland was an island" which should give you a sense of the lush greenery and stunning cliffsides. The islands exceeded our expectations boasting incredibly manicured parks, viewpoints, beaches, lakes, hikes, and natural hot springs. Did I mention the cows? They're everywhere chowing down on the endless fields of green grass and producing incredible dairy products (and burgers) to enjoy... Fear not, you’re still on an island so the seafood like fish, squid, and octopus still WOWs. Last, but never least, dessert is a hit in Portugal! There are all kinds of regional pastries and luckily the pastel de nata has found its way over from the mainland. Overall, the islands maintain a sense of pristine, untouched, nature and offer so much to do all while exuding a sense of serene seclusion.

Returning to Logrono, I relished the opportunity to share my adopted home with my sister! From day trips to Burgos and LaGuardia to nightly pinxto crawls on Laurel, the north of Spain has done it again! We topped off our time together in San Sebastian and Bilbao, we were delighted in their culture, scenery, and culinary delights. Although we could’ve stayed for the rest of our lives, we had an incredible three weeks together and are infinitely blessed to be great sisters and travel partners.

As I settle back into my routine, I’m filled with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude. With two months left of being in Logrono, I am determined to make the most of every day, savoring the simple joys of friendship, the outdoors, and, of course, sipping Rioja reds in the plaza.

Salud!