Hola
Ok, so Maribel is the chica that had been looking around for a talking companion. We met for the second time today.
Our intercambio actually works very well. We usually meet up at some specified place, then we will talk about what ever for two hours. One hour in English and one hour in Espanol. Sometimes its hard to keep the conversation going. If you have no reason to be talking or no information you need to talk about, it kindof makes everything you say unrelevant. So I jsut say everything taht is unrelevant. But it is really good practice for me and I am so lucky that someone is doing this for me, its great! I hope that i am helping her as well.
Today, it was nice outside so we just walked around the park. Actually, about an hour into it, she had mentioned that she had to go to the store to buy a present for a friend, so I opted to go with her. It felt better being productive and talking at the same time.
It was hard though, because it took her forever to decide on a gift, and I wanted to help but I don't know what her friend is like, and then I helped her finally decide but I think I helped her make the wrong decision and now I just dont know! sigh.
She is thirty two, has one older sister one older brother both married. She lived in England for two years working with an advertising company. After a while she completely hated it and moved back to Spain. She has been here for five months and is curently looking for a job. She had realize she doesn't like her line of work but is too old, and far along to change fields.
She perfers the outdoors and nature and loves the country. She dose not like to run, but is in a hiking club.
She wants to keep up her English.
Ok, well thats it for now, I don't know how many more times we will meet up before I leave but its been good so far.
layts
susie
Friday, February 29, 2008
Dirty Dancing Cubana Nights
Take any clip from the movie, Dirty Dancing Cubana Nights, and you would pretty much have my evening yesterday! I met Javi at the corner outside my house after his dance class and we went up to a Latin Disco in Madrid. (A, Madrid is so much cooler by car than by bus. And at night time it looks amazing!)
In the car he explained to me how Latin Dancing differs from the Spanish style. Apparently, Latins are more free with their bodies, more in the lower hips while Spaniards put more effort into technique and form.
We also talked a lot about the Cuban economy. I don't know alot about Cuba, but apparently I know even less than I thought I did after talking with him.
I had always pictured Cuba as a small, scary, dirty place, where everyone is running around scared and in fear of this oppressing dictator Fidel Castro. Death by violence is very possible and it would not be safe to go there.
When I told Javi this he just laughed. "No, Cuba is not Peligroso." he said, (no, he doesn't speak English) He went to Cuba last summer with a volunteer organization. he explained the Cuba economy to me as he saw it. (roughly translated) "There is not any money, very, very little. Trade is cut off from the United States so a lot of important products they don't have. For that they have to be very creative. For example, They do not have milk because they do not have cows, so do you know how they make cheese?" he asks, I didn't know so he continued, "They use the peel of fruit! And they make cheese! It is exactly like the cheese you would eat on a sandwich.
Everyone has what is necessary. They do not have a lot of money, but everything is free. They basic things that is, beer, chocolate, and things like that are not free but all of the basic needs are. Every citizen gets a card that says thier name and how big their family is. Depending on the size and their needs, they go to this store payed for by the government and pick up their things. Bread, medicine, toothpaste, it is all free. And everyone has it.
The Cubans are some of the happiest people. They do not have a lot but what they do have they share with everyone. When I left, I had one friend who did not have anything, hardly anything. But when I left he shared his (I didn't understood what it was his friend gave to him, but I think it was food or something, but you get the point of the story) with me. They are humble, but are always happy. Here, people have so much, but even with so little people in Cuba are happier.
They love to dance and smile and have fiestas. In the streets, they will carry a big stereo and play music. People will dance in the streets.
One time, I was up very early in the morning working on the school, and there was a man with his stereo who came by. Every moment is a party.
They are very clean people. Very clean clothes, hygiene, teeth. They do not have a lot of things but they always keep themselves very clean.
I was surprised by what Javi said. Through his interpretation it seemed that the Cuban governement was working well to provide the basic needs of the people. And maybe, if I went there, I wouldn't be gunned down as quickly as I thought.
We arrived to the place around 12. You actually had to pay to get in - 20 E for the both of us. Count this as my first Spanish date? It did include free drinks and food though...though we didn't eat any of the food, next time I wont eat so much before I come.
Salsa, marengue, Buscah (or some dance that starts with a B), cha-cha. We danced and danced. Javi showed me new moves every time. and yes, he did try to teach me to shake my hips correctly.
Towards the end of the night, however, I was getting more tired, and he was getting more affectionate. A, he started blowing on me then B, started ruffling my hair. O great. And then, here's the kicker, he said I had chocolate on my neck then tried to lick it off!
But if there's one thing I have learned at BYU it is to know when and how to say no. Sorry Javi, but I don't want to kiss you. (sometimes I am thankful for how blunt the language gap allows you to be)
After that we just made faces at each other while we were dancing. Sometimes he would get up real close, pucker, then flip away really fast. what a tease.
Anyway some things can only last so long, so by the end of the night we were were sitting down and he asks me why I don't want to kiss him.
If a guy ever asks you that, just be blunt about it, its the best way. I'm glad we were able ti talk about it actually it made us better friends.
I don't know you well enough. I said, if I kiss a guy I want to make sure that he is a good guy and someone I can trust.
You want to be friends first, hang out more, get to now each other by doing things together, then if things are good then you would kiss him.
yes. but you get to know someone by hanging out with them before you kiss them.
I wasn't surprised that things didn't go bad after that. Nope, things got better. They always do. Sometimes its hard to set lines and rules but if you do it will always help the relationship. We were both able to say what we wanted and would do. Communication is key.
After that I asked him if we could go, I was tired and done for the night.
He dropped me off, said he'd call me tonight. There is a single adults dance at the stake center in Madrid I invited him to. Still thinking if I want him to come though.
PS, on the way home we also talked about the other night and how I got a ride home with them and if I was thinking they were bad guys or something. lol, I thought it was so funny - like he could read my thoughts. Yes, I said, I was scared and I did not know if I could trust you. He said that Oscar had said I probably was thinking that. how brillant guys are.
In the car he explained to me how Latin Dancing differs from the Spanish style. Apparently, Latins are more free with their bodies, more in the lower hips while Spaniards put more effort into technique and form.
We also talked a lot about the Cuban economy. I don't know alot about Cuba, but apparently I know even less than I thought I did after talking with him.
I had always pictured Cuba as a small, scary, dirty place, where everyone is running around scared and in fear of this oppressing dictator Fidel Castro. Death by violence is very possible and it would not be safe to go there.
When I told Javi this he just laughed. "No, Cuba is not Peligroso." he said, (no, he doesn't speak English) He went to Cuba last summer with a volunteer organization. he explained the Cuba economy to me as he saw it. (roughly translated) "There is not any money, very, very little. Trade is cut off from the United States so a lot of important products they don't have. For that they have to be very creative. For example, They do not have milk because they do not have cows, so do you know how they make cheese?" he asks, I didn't know so he continued, "They use the peel of fruit! And they make cheese! It is exactly like the cheese you would eat on a sandwich.
Everyone has what is necessary. They do not have a lot of money, but everything is free. They basic things that is, beer, chocolate, and things like that are not free but all of the basic needs are. Every citizen gets a card that says thier name and how big their family is. Depending on the size and their needs, they go to this store payed for by the government and pick up their things. Bread, medicine, toothpaste, it is all free. And everyone has it.
The Cubans are some of the happiest people. They do not have a lot but what they do have they share with everyone. When I left, I had one friend who did not have anything, hardly anything. But when I left he shared his (I didn't understood what it was his friend gave to him, but I think it was food or something, but you get the point of the story) with me. They are humble, but are always happy. Here, people have so much, but even with so little people in Cuba are happier.
They love to dance and smile and have fiestas. In the streets, they will carry a big stereo and play music. People will dance in the streets.
One time, I was up very early in the morning working on the school, and there was a man with his stereo who came by. Every moment is a party.
They are very clean people. Very clean clothes, hygiene, teeth. They do not have a lot of things but they always keep themselves very clean.
I was surprised by what Javi said. Through his interpretation it seemed that the Cuban governement was working well to provide the basic needs of the people. And maybe, if I went there, I wouldn't be gunned down as quickly as I thought.
We arrived to the place around 12. You actually had to pay to get in - 20 E for the both of us. Count this as my first Spanish date? It did include free drinks and food though...though we didn't eat any of the food, next time I wont eat so much before I come.
Salsa, marengue, Buscah (or some dance that starts with a B), cha-cha. We danced and danced. Javi showed me new moves every time. and yes, he did try to teach me to shake my hips correctly.
Towards the end of the night, however, I was getting more tired, and he was getting more affectionate. A, he started blowing on me then B, started ruffling my hair. O great. And then, here's the kicker, he said I had chocolate on my neck then tried to lick it off!
But if there's one thing I have learned at BYU it is to know when and how to say no. Sorry Javi, but I don't want to kiss you. (sometimes I am thankful for how blunt the language gap allows you to be)
After that we just made faces at each other while we were dancing. Sometimes he would get up real close, pucker, then flip away really fast. what a tease.
Anyway some things can only last so long, so by the end of the night we were were sitting down and he asks me why I don't want to kiss him.
If a guy ever asks you that, just be blunt about it, its the best way. I'm glad we were able ti talk about it actually it made us better friends.
I don't know you well enough. I said, if I kiss a guy I want to make sure that he is a good guy and someone I can trust.
You want to be friends first, hang out more, get to now each other by doing things together, then if things are good then you would kiss him.
yes. but you get to know someone by hanging out with them before you kiss them.
I wasn't surprised that things didn't go bad after that. Nope, things got better. They always do. Sometimes its hard to set lines and rules but if you do it will always help the relationship. We were both able to say what we wanted and would do. Communication is key.
After that I asked him if we could go, I was tired and done for the night.
He dropped me off, said he'd call me tonight. There is a single adults dance at the stake center in Madrid I invited him to. Still thinking if I want him to come though.
PS, on the way home we also talked about the other night and how I got a ride home with them and if I was thinking they were bad guys or something. lol, I thought it was so funny - like he could read my thoughts. Yes, I said, I was scared and I did not know if I could trust you. He said that Oscar had said I probably was thinking that. how brillant guys are.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Charity, the two circles of
“Do what you will, there is going to be some benevolence, as well as some malice, in your patient’s soul. The great thing is to direct the malice to his immediate neighbors whom he meets every day and to thrust his benevolence out to the remote circumference, to people he does not know."
The Screwtape Letters, C. S. Lewis
This is what I see in my life sometimes, and one thing that I need to stay away from. Most of the time, its much funner and easier to serve someone you don't know, or to go somewhere big and far to do something big and great. I know that when I'm standing in the bus at the line, I always look around for that old woman I can say hi to or help to the bus. I want to find an old folks home to go volunteer at. And although those are great things, many times, I don't go out of my way to see if Keri, my companion in line with me, is having a good day. I don't invite others in my group to come with me to an activity I have found, or to accompany me to the old folks home.
Its hypocritical to be prejudiced in where you place your charity. I want to make sure that I can truly be a person of Christlike love. Help those close to me as well as those who are far away.
The Screwtape Letters, C. S. Lewis
This is what I see in my life sometimes, and one thing that I need to stay away from. Most of the time, its much funner and easier to serve someone you don't know, or to go somewhere big and far to do something big and great. I know that when I'm standing in the bus at the line, I always look around for that old woman I can say hi to or help to the bus. I want to find an old folks home to go volunteer at. And although those are great things, many times, I don't go out of my way to see if Keri, my companion in line with me, is having a good day. I don't invite others in my group to come with me to an activity I have found, or to accompany me to the old folks home.
Its hypocritical to be prejudiced in where you place your charity. I want to make sure that I can truly be a person of Christlike love. Help those close to me as well as those who are far away.
Monday, February 25, 2008
portion of letter to a friend, posted for a summary
my Spanish is slowly getting better, its a process but one that I am loving. I started taking Dance classes here. its kind of my own special little thing -
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Tutoring with Merlinda?
So, I called this girl today who had left a flyer up in the school asking for English tutoring lessons. Her name is Merlinda, i think, and we are meeting this Wednesday at the Plaza de Cervantes. I dont know anything about her, she sounded mid twenties on the phone, but I'm excited to help out and I think the conversations exchange will be good practice.
ps. this is what I have been looking for.
ps. this is what I have been looking for.
The Boda Hoy
grandmas,
great family
candy, food drinks, talked to Alberto and his wife for the first time since I've been here. Why was I so scared of them before? I thought they looked so old and scary. We talked for about ten minutes, they showed me all of their pictures from Seville. Alberto is like his parents, he likes to show and talk.
Julio, the tio of Encarne, was one of the first of the family that I met. Immediate love. I don't know what it is about him but I just became friends with him! and his wife! Abuelo (thats what he told me to call him) talked to me a lot. A few times I brought them chocolates from the tables. The old ladies loved it when I brought them chocolates. I talk so easy with old people, if only every one was so free and unrushed. If I talk to anyone else, I feel that I have to hurry with what I am saying as not to waste their time, and if I do say something it has to be for a reason. Old people don't care what you say so simple - whats your faovrite color- questions are just as good to them as any other.
I love joking with old ladies and having them love you.
Another friendship was made, I now have to Madrid go hang out with the great aunt. I would rather go pasear the day with her than than go on a tripe with the group.
Perti, Abuelo's wife, showed me the flamenco on our way to the car. She just stopped midway through the hall way and started pulling me around in these crazy dance moves. She had the flaying arms and everything. Funnest thing in my life. I thought we would all die laughing.
Again, my decision to take dancing lessons is still paying off. The number of times to has come up in conversations and helped form friendships.
I love life sometimes.
Baile Baile Baile
We had another day trip yesterday. We didn't return too late, around eight o'clock. After we ate, I went to Sarah's and Ericka's casa to watch a movie. It was an ice cream night- they brought the Helado and everyone else brought a topping. The ice cream was amazing.
When I got there I really wasn't feeling so hot. I haven't slept a lot the last couple nights, so my body was starting to feel it. Sarah gave me some asprin. What would have been best for me was if I had gone straight to bed after the movie, but ....
I had already made plans to meet Javi from my dance class at the club. And I made Oscar (my teacher) promise to save a dance for me when I came again this weekend. I couldn't back down?! And I really have been wanting to go, I don't have a lot of time left to go dancing, especially since my classes end soon and I don't know if I'm going to pay to continue or not.
I decided just to go, and If I still felt sick when I got there, I could jsut stay for a couple of songs then leave right away. Or so was the plan.
When I got there I was definitely out of place. American girl, jeans, long sleeve shirt, big frumpy coat. My hair was everywhere and I was only wearing eyeliner. In comparison to the GUAPAS that were elegantly dancing around me, I appeared like a child I am sure.
Even Osacr looked me up and down with a strange eye when he greeted me. But I didn't care, I was gald enough I was there. Those other girls didn't look so comfortable anyway so I wasn't jealous. Oscar was shocked that I was there alone and quickly pulled me over to another group of his friends to introduce me.
He also pulled me to the bar to get a drink, I think it would have been fine if I just asked for a coke but I didnt know what there was and I didnt know if this was going to be on his tab or mine so I just said no.
He was a little, "ok, ...if you're sure you don't want anything," He left me there to wait for a mereangue song that we could dance together.
Whew, great, at least if I stood there all by myself all night I would have at least one dance reserved.
I wasn't standing there long (although it seemed like it at the time, and i was trying so hard not to appear bored or alone - so every now and then I would clap my hands and kindof sway to the music like I was all into it. I don't appreciate pity stares.) before the guy from last class showed up. He arrived with a friend - he had called me around nine to see if I was still going to the club, I told him to meet there at 12:30. He was a little late, I was just relived I know had someone to stand by.
Thank goodness that at this point all of my pride was gone so I didn't have to put on a show for the Espanole. Probably had I been in better circumstances I would have acted a little more stand offish- requiring him to work for my conversation and attention. But at that point I was like -screw it- i am jsut going to have fun with this guy even if I do seem stupid, immature, or unattractive. (Remeber, I am dressed down and in comparsion ot the other ladies in the room I feel like I am twelve - Plus I later come to find that between Esponale and his friend Oscar they have more years than my father.) I asked them questions, I made jokes, I said I didn't understand if I didn't understnad. I'm sure I sounded and looked so stupid, but we actually had a blast! I juast acted totally cool and myself with them, and themselves in return. We just kept laughing the whole time! and I got to learn killer Dancing moves. Javi (the nombre de la Espanole) is very good at dancing. I mostly danced with him, and we usually just did merangue but we preacticed Salsa on the side. Oscar, the friend, was being a dancing bum and didn't dance at all the whole night! I don't know why because from what I did see from the his few swayes on the sidelines he had some killer moves. At one point when our connecting link, Javi, was out dancing with another girl, I crushed the wall of awkwardness by asking Oscar to show me a dance that he knew. He showed me the ... starts with a B. You stand facing together, right hands together. Both couple steps back on the right, then forward on the front while bringing the left hand up and together to push off for the next back step. Those are the basic steps and then you add in cool turns and twirls and it gets excited. I also showed them some country dancing skills as well as ballroom and swing. Yes, Javi and I did actually Waltz around the discoteca. And I was leading.
I saw a lot of cool dances. Did you know that they have Spanish line dances? I was surprised too . It was awesome what they did though - they worked off the typical box turn but at each vuelta some guy would yell out what dance move to do so every time it was different. My faovrite was when the men dropped to the floor to do push ups and the women stayed standing lassoing.
Javi did buy as all drinks at the beginning. I told them I didn't drink alcohol. They laughed when I asked for water. I ended up getting orange Fanta. I watched them open the bottle and pour it into my glass. In Javi and Oscars, the waitress added a little something special on the bottle, Javi stopped her before the third glass. I jsut had a little sip but then I left it on the table to go out to the dance. I've heard all of those horror storeis about people slipping stuff into your drink when you aren't there, so when I got back I was a little hesitant to drink it. I had a few sips but didn't finish it.
And ok, here is the sketchy part which I feel really stupiud about but I am still unsure about - a few hours into the night Oscar comes by again to say hi, chatting with the guys etc. He pulls us all over to the bar and hands us all a glass with some juice or something. I told him I don't drink alcohol, and they were all like its not alcohol, Oscar said that he dosent drink alcohol either - but its just lemon juice and something else - ok I said. I don't know why at this point I felt that I could trust what ever they say, but to a certain degree I do/did trust them and they are nice and dont need to slip alcohol into someones drink, right? Anyway, we toasted and I took a sip while the guys bottomed up. It tasted like rasberry fruit concentrate. I've never had beer, vodka, vine, or any other alcoholic beverage but it didn't seem like it tasted like any of those. I had Javi finish the rest of it for me.
When we started leaving though, I think they started joking about me haven drinken alcohol - I got mad because I didn't know if they were kidding or serious - I made Javi tell me the truth and promise me that he hadn't given me alcohol. Despite hes assurances I still wonder....
It was late and I lived far so Javi and Oscar gave me a ride home. lol, I guess I'm pretty lucky that they didn't try to kill me or something. But I find ppl are generally better than you think they are.
When I got there I really wasn't feeling so hot. I haven't slept a lot the last couple nights, so my body was starting to feel it. Sarah gave me some asprin. What would have been best for me was if I had gone straight to bed after the movie, but ....
I had already made plans to meet Javi from my dance class at the club. And I made Oscar (my teacher) promise to save a dance for me when I came again this weekend. I couldn't back down?! And I really have been wanting to go, I don't have a lot of time left to go dancing, especially since my classes end soon and I don't know if I'm going to pay to continue or not.
I decided just to go, and If I still felt sick when I got there, I could jsut stay for a couple of songs then leave right away. Or so was the plan.
When I got there I was definitely out of place. American girl, jeans, long sleeve shirt, big frumpy coat. My hair was everywhere and I was only wearing eyeliner. In comparison to the GUAPAS that were elegantly dancing around me, I appeared like a child I am sure.
Even Osacr looked me up and down with a strange eye when he greeted me. But I didn't care, I was gald enough I was there. Those other girls didn't look so comfortable anyway so I wasn't jealous. Oscar was shocked that I was there alone and quickly pulled me over to another group of his friends to introduce me.
He also pulled me to the bar to get a drink, I think it would have been fine if I just asked for a coke but I didnt know what there was and I didnt know if this was going to be on his tab or mine so I just said no.
He was a little, "ok, ...if you're sure you don't want anything," He left me there to wait for a mereangue song that we could dance together.
Whew, great, at least if I stood there all by myself all night I would have at least one dance reserved.
I wasn't standing there long (although it seemed like it at the time, and i was trying so hard not to appear bored or alone - so every now and then I would clap my hands and kindof sway to the music like I was all into it. I don't appreciate pity stares.) before the guy from last class showed up. He arrived with a friend - he had called me around nine to see if I was still going to the club, I told him to meet there at 12:30. He was a little late, I was just relived I know had someone to stand by.
Thank goodness that at this point all of my pride was gone so I didn't have to put on a show for the Espanole. Probably had I been in better circumstances I would have acted a little more stand offish- requiring him to work for my conversation and attention. But at that point I was like -screw it- i am jsut going to have fun with this guy even if I do seem stupid, immature, or unattractive. (Remeber, I am dressed down and in comparsion ot the other ladies in the room I feel like I am twelve - Plus I later come to find that between Esponale and his friend Oscar they have more years than my father.) I asked them questions, I made jokes, I said I didn't understand if I didn't understnad. I'm sure I sounded and looked so stupid, but we actually had a blast! I juast acted totally cool and myself with them, and themselves in return. We just kept laughing the whole time! and I got to learn killer Dancing moves. Javi (the nombre de la Espanole) is very good at dancing. I mostly danced with him, and we usually just did merangue but we preacticed Salsa on the side. Oscar, the friend, was being a dancing bum and didn't dance at all the whole night! I don't know why because from what I did see from the his few swayes on the sidelines he had some killer moves. At one point when our connecting link, Javi, was out dancing with another girl, I crushed the wall of awkwardness by asking Oscar to show me a dance that he knew. He showed me the ... starts with a B. You stand facing together, right hands together. Both couple steps back on the right, then forward on the front while bringing the left hand up and together to push off for the next back step. Those are the basic steps and then you add in cool turns and twirls and it gets excited. I also showed them some country dancing skills as well as ballroom and swing. Yes, Javi and I did actually Waltz around the discoteca. And I was leading.
I saw a lot of cool dances. Did you know that they have Spanish line dances? I was surprised too . It was awesome what they did though - they worked off the typical box turn but at each vuelta some guy would yell out what dance move to do so every time it was different. My faovrite was when the men dropped to the floor to do push ups and the women stayed standing lassoing.
Javi did buy as all drinks at the beginning. I told them I didn't drink alcohol. They laughed when I asked for water. I ended up getting orange Fanta. I watched them open the bottle and pour it into my glass. In Javi and Oscars, the waitress added a little something special on the bottle, Javi stopped her before the third glass. I jsut had a little sip but then I left it on the table to go out to the dance. I've heard all of those horror storeis about people slipping stuff into your drink when you aren't there, so when I got back I was a little hesitant to drink it. I had a few sips but didn't finish it.
And ok, here is the sketchy part which I feel really stupiud about but I am still unsure about - a few hours into the night Oscar comes by again to say hi, chatting with the guys etc. He pulls us all over to the bar and hands us all a glass with some juice or something. I told him I don't drink alcohol, and they were all like its not alcohol, Oscar said that he dosent drink alcohol either - but its just lemon juice and something else - ok I said. I don't know why at this point I felt that I could trust what ever they say, but to a certain degree I do/did trust them and they are nice and dont need to slip alcohol into someones drink, right? Anyway, we toasted and I took a sip while the guys bottomed up. It tasted like rasberry fruit concentrate. I've never had beer, vodka, vine, or any other alcoholic beverage but it didn't seem like it tasted like any of those. I had Javi finish the rest of it for me.
When we started leaving though, I think they started joking about me haven drinken alcohol - I got mad because I didn't know if they were kidding or serious - I made Javi tell me the truth and promise me that he hadn't given me alcohol. Despite hes assurances I still wonder....
It was late and I lived far so Javi and Oscar gave me a ride home. lol, I guess I'm pretty lucky that they didn't try to kill me or something. But I find ppl are generally better than you think they are.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
La Cumpleanos de Mi Madre
Yesterday was my madre's birthday. I was really excited. I wish I had started thinking of something to do before so I could have done something really cool, now my head is filling with ideas but. But nonetheless, I made her a birthday card. I don't ahve a lot with me so ... lol, I ended up folding a piece of computer paper in half, and wrote a cute message with blue pen. I tore up a red and blue valentine that I had and glued pieces of it on the front for confetti.
She wasn't up when we left for school (i learned later that was her birthday gift to herself) so I left it propped up on the counter so it would be the first thing seen when you enter the kitchen. When I came home it was hanging on the fridge.
She loved it, and has been showing everyone who has come over, sisters, mothers, friends.
There was nothing I could think of to buy so I decided to help her with a ll of the household chores. We cleaned the kitchen! ironed! folded the clothes! then after all the housework we both sat in the saloon doing our needle work. I will make the best little old spanish woman some day.
I had to leave for dance class at seven and didnt get back until after dinner. So I wasnt able to sing - maybe next week when we officially celebrate and have a tart.
She wasn't up when we left for school (i learned later that was her birthday gift to herself) so I left it propped up on the counter so it would be the first thing seen when you enter the kitchen. When I came home it was hanging on the fridge.
She loved it, and has been showing everyone who has come over, sisters, mothers, friends.
There was nothing I could think of to buy so I decided to help her with a ll of the household chores. We cleaned the kitchen! ironed! folded the clothes! then after all the housework we both sat in the saloon doing our needle work. I will make the best little old spanish woman some day.
I had to leave for dance class at seven and didnt get back until after dinner. So I wasnt able to sing - maybe next week when we officially celebrate and have a tart.
Partido de Futbol!
We're going to see a prof futbol game today! I am really excited. ITs not REAL Madrid (we're not that rich) but it is in the stadium so how cool will taht be! The team colors that I am rooting for are white, blue, and red. Good thing I brought my face paint from the U.S. with me. I knew it would come in handy. Also, before the game we are stopping for Doner Kebabs, I love life.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
La Feista Commenced!
Ok, So we were able to carry out the fiesta! Do you remember me asking my madre about it? At first I told her about twenty or fifteen people would come. Well, word ended up spreading to the whole group, and as it turned out no one had any other plans, so Susie and Keri's Valentines party became the thing to do on everyones planner. Yea, o no.
Once you included everyone from our group (plus the random Japonese roommates that people also invited who then also invited their Japones friends) we had over forty people come to the house. Encarne had people playing parchezi in the salon, I started a game of charades in the living room, and Keri and Laura held down the Kitchen area where people congregated around the snake table. (everyone was encouraged to bing a treat to share, Encarne also made bizchoco de mansana and served two boxes of juice and one box of milk)
Both Encarne and Angel seemed to be having a good time, at least I think so. I had expected them to kind of stay back out in the other areas of the house, but they stayed there in the middle of it al the whole time. Well, Angel mostly watched from the side, but Encarne was talking and serving and teaching all over teh place. I'm pretty sure she got on everyone who let an English word slip as well. If I ever said anything in English thta night, she would come over and hiss at me while poking me with her finger :espanol, espanol!: (she tries to encourage me and the others to speak Spanish ALL the time. She was shocked and disappointed when she found out we talked English amongst each other.
Honestly, I had a blast hosting the party. It was fun to have the other students over to show them my house and my padres. Everyone loved them! Just cus they were so cool and in the middle of things. But, I really wish I knew what Encarne and Angel thought though. They didn't say anthing about it once people left, although I tried to bring it up. "So, what did you guys think about the party?" "I think it went well, what about you all?"
Today though, Keri and I were leaving to go to Sara's house who is in are group to watch a movie.
Angel was like, :why dont you watch a movie here sometimes, we have those big speakers.:
"Yea, we can have another fiesta!" -Yo
"O, no more fiestas! Maybe six or eight others and then you two. There were forty people! you said, 20, maybe 15, mas o menos." - Encarne
"Exactly, MAS o menos. Just a grande Mas." - Yo, innocent awkward giggle - he he
They both laughed and Encarne, shook her head to the side, "Eres mala."
That has become my second name in this house. = )
Once you included everyone from our group (plus the random Japonese roommates that people also invited who then also invited their Japones friends) we had over forty people come to the house. Encarne had people playing parchezi in the salon, I started a game of charades in the living room, and Keri and Laura held down the Kitchen area where people congregated around the snake table. (everyone was encouraged to bing a treat to share, Encarne also made bizchoco de mansana and served two boxes of juice and one box of milk)
Both Encarne and Angel seemed to be having a good time, at least I think so. I had expected them to kind of stay back out in the other areas of the house, but they stayed there in the middle of it al the whole time. Well, Angel mostly watched from the side, but Encarne was talking and serving and teaching all over teh place. I'm pretty sure she got on everyone who let an English word slip as well. If I ever said anything in English thta night, she would come over and hiss at me while poking me with her finger :espanol, espanol!: (she tries to encourage me and the others to speak Spanish ALL the time. She was shocked and disappointed when she found out we talked English amongst each other.
Honestly, I had a blast hosting the party. It was fun to have the other students over to show them my house and my padres. Everyone loved them! Just cus they were so cool and in the middle of things. But, I really wish I knew what Encarne and Angel thought though. They didn't say anthing about it once people left, although I tried to bring it up. "So, what did you guys think about the party?" "I think it went well, what about you all?"
Today though, Keri and I were leaving to go to Sara's house who is in are group to watch a movie.
Angel was like, :why dont you watch a movie here sometimes, we have those big speakers.:
"Yea, we can have another fiesta!" -Yo
"O, no more fiestas! Maybe six or eight others and then you two. There were forty people! you said, 20, maybe 15, mas o menos." - Encarne
"Exactly, MAS o menos. Just a grande Mas." - Yo, innocent awkward giggle - he he
They both laughed and Encarne, shook her head to the side, "Eres mala."
That has become my second name in this house. = )
Segovia and Pardoza and the Lamb Testicle
We went on a day trip to Segovia. It was a nice day, we were all pleasantly surprised, although a little over dressed, since the Weatherman had forcasted snow and rain.
I didn't see as much of Segovia as I wanted. I blame that on not having a map though, I should have been more agressive in searching out the places I wanted to go though. For example, it would have been really fun to see the old Mint where some of the earliest coins (dating back to the Romans and through the 18th century) were made.
We did get some great sites though. Cinderellas castle for one, (don't worry I found my knight in shinging armor inside) and then the last gothic Cathedral built in Europe before teh Renaissance began. I liked this Cathedral in particular becasue the stone they used is a littler shade then the gloomy gray that the Toldeo and Seville Calthedrals had. It made the outside look a little more happy. Although the Cathedral did sport the flying buttresses, and pointed arches, you could see some of the rising Renaissance influences. For one, the shape is not shaped as a cross like the others. And the statues and decorations on the trimming were more curvy, less spiky and intimidating. Hopefully that description makes sense but its the best I can do.
After Segovia, the group went about an hour or so south to a small pueblo called Paradoza. (?) The structures, buildings, roads, haven't changed since Mediveal Times. It was .... empty. There aren't a lot of people who live there to begin with but on Fridays I guess its not the place to be. They say Saturdays people from Madrid come up.
Despite the lack of activity we found ways to intertain ourselves. There was a huge field infront of the castle. We played Castilos and Cadeabears (?)
(casltes and Beavers), Dum-da-Da-Da (which I have at last been able to pass on and enjoy once again! thank you girls camp!), Oggly-boogly, and of course, the animal game. Mid way through our games, this groupd of old people came and circled the park. I think it was town pasear hour. lol, I love Spain.
So, to end the celebrative eveing, we decided to treat ourselves to an athuentic Horno/Asado dinner. This area (segovia ish) is famous for their baked pig and lamb. They actually use a brick oven and cook the things whole. They serve them to you, and a group of four or five will share each animal. It actually is quite an expensive dish, but the program found a way to cover half of it. I tried not to think about the money. But it turned out to be an excellent Spanish feast.
So the waiters come and they place this large dish in the middle of te table, it has all of thise animal parts sticking out here and there. Everyone just grabs a fork and pulls out the part of the slaughtered closest to them. My nieghbor and I had the fortune to pull out the lower tail area. The lower area...was still intact. We both had exactly half of what I think must have been a spine, hip-leg, and one large baked testicle. At first I didn't know what it was. "What's this ball thing?" I pushed it around with my fork at first. It streched connected to an elasticy cord. "Oh, no."
OnceI realized what it was I knew it would happen. I had to eat. I didn't want to, and if given teh option before hand I would never have requested it. But here it was, on my plate. The culture, the opportunity, they new things. The whole day became built up to that moment. It was all or nothing.
Like a gumball at the beginning. Big and round it filled my mouth. First bite, your teeth bite into a dense rubbery outerlayer, the inside suave, soft creamy like - like blended cottage cheese.
AFter wards I downed my coke, bread, and had three more helpings of salad. Needlesstosay, I was done with the meat entres.
But! I overcome a new barrier in my life, and I feel that I have grown and entered a new level of living!
Goodnight Segovia! Goodnight Pardoza! I have met your cultural challenges and I ahve conquered!
I didn't see as much of Segovia as I wanted. I blame that on not having a map though, I should have been more agressive in searching out the places I wanted to go though. For example, it would have been really fun to see the old Mint where some of the earliest coins (dating back to the Romans and through the 18th century) were made.
We did get some great sites though. Cinderellas castle for one, (don't worry I found my knight in shinging armor inside) and then the last gothic Cathedral built in Europe before teh Renaissance began. I liked this Cathedral in particular becasue the stone they used is a littler shade then the gloomy gray that the Toldeo and Seville Calthedrals had. It made the outside look a little more happy. Although the Cathedral did sport the flying buttresses, and pointed arches, you could see some of the rising Renaissance influences. For one, the shape is not shaped as a cross like the others. And the statues and decorations on the trimming were more curvy, less spiky and intimidating. Hopefully that description makes sense but its the best I can do.
After Segovia, the group went about an hour or so south to a small pueblo called Paradoza. (?) The structures, buildings, roads, haven't changed since Mediveal Times. It was .... empty. There aren't a lot of people who live there to begin with but on Fridays I guess its not the place to be. They say Saturdays people from Madrid come up.
Despite the lack of activity we found ways to intertain ourselves. There was a huge field infront of the castle. We played Castilos and Cadeabears (?)
(casltes and Beavers), Dum-da-Da-Da (which I have at last been able to pass on and enjoy once again! thank you girls camp!), Oggly-boogly, and of course, the animal game. Mid way through our games, this groupd of old people came and circled the park. I think it was town pasear hour. lol, I love Spain.
So, to end the celebrative eveing, we decided to treat ourselves to an athuentic Horno/Asado dinner. This area (segovia ish) is famous for their baked pig and lamb. They actually use a brick oven and cook the things whole. They serve them to you, and a group of four or five will share each animal. It actually is quite an expensive dish, but the program found a way to cover half of it. I tried not to think about the money. But it turned out to be an excellent Spanish feast.
So the waiters come and they place this large dish in the middle of te table, it has all of thise animal parts sticking out here and there. Everyone just grabs a fork and pulls out the part of the slaughtered closest to them. My nieghbor and I had the fortune to pull out the lower tail area. The lower area...was still intact. We both had exactly half of what I think must have been a spine, hip-leg, and one large baked testicle. At first I didn't know what it was. "What's this ball thing?" I pushed it around with my fork at first. It streched connected to an elasticy cord. "Oh, no."
OnceI realized what it was I knew it would happen. I had to eat. I didn't want to, and if given teh option before hand I would never have requested it. But here it was, on my plate. The culture, the opportunity, they new things. The whole day became built up to that moment. It was all or nothing.
Like a gumball at the beginning. Big and round it filled my mouth. First bite, your teeth bite into a dense rubbery outerlayer, the inside suave, soft creamy like - like blended cottage cheese.
AFter wards I downed my coke, bread, and had three more helpings of salad. Needlesstosay, I was done with the meat entres.
But! I overcome a new barrier in my life, and I feel that I have grown and entered a new level of living!
Goodnight Segovia! Goodnight Pardoza! I have met your cultural challenges and I ahve conquered!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Fiesta Manana?
Tomorrow is Valentines day so I really want to have a party! Hanging out in Madrid would be cool, but its to cold to play in the park or anything. I asked mi Madre if I could have people over here. lol, I wish you had seen her face when I said about twenty. Nonetheless she said it would be fine. I hope I can tell people about it tomorrow and hopefully there will be some interest to come and party. But who can pass up valentine games?
Haciendo Puntos con mi Madre
Today my madre taught me how to knit! I bought a roll of yarn in Granada this weekend in anticipation of a lesson. I finally had a free afternoon today so I asked her if she had time to show me. She was more than happy to. I think she likes to teach me things, I hope so anyway because I ask her all the time.
The knitting skills? They are coming along, I have about seven rows so far - which no is not much - but I plan to have a beautiful bufando (scarf) soon, just wait.
The knitting skills? They are coming along, I have about seven rows so far - which no is not much - but I plan to have a beautiful bufando (scarf) soon, just wait.
Bailer?
I met this girl, Danille, from New Jersey at the Alcalingua (the University I attend). We became friends when I randomly went with her to the Peluqueria to get her hair dyed. ( I talked her into getting a purple tint. Call it vicariously living?) Anyway I'm glad that I went with her because today she invited me to go to a dnace class at this club with a couple of her girlfriends. It turned out to be really fun!
The class was in this random bar in Alcala. It was all empty except for about the fifteen people who showed up for the class. A woman, Jessica, from CA, has been taking classes there for the last few weeks and she is the one who lead us there. The class included us six American girls, five Spanish men, and Oscar, the teacher.
We began with simple basic steps. Most of the moves I already know from Socail 180 or just the country dances I've been to. Oscar commented on how well I followed. = )
The five Spanish men? yes they were definitely men. Ok, maybe just one seemed to be in his forties, that would be Alberto who has been taking classes there for a year and a half. He scolded me for moving my shoulders with my hips. "Just the legs!" He kept insisting.
Angel was maybe late twenties. Think of Antonio Vanderez twenty pounds heavier and week long hangover. Good dancer though, He told me to come back on Friday night to practice when the club is open. I might take him up on that.
The other three I don't remember their names. One in the brown was a terrible dancer! I couldn't believe he was native Spanish. The better of the last two had horrible BO that reaked from his body, but he was actually one of the best dancers and while I was dancing with him I weighed the costs of the smell with the great twirls.
Well I didn't learn a lot, but I had a lot of fun, Especially with the Spanish teacher and partners (I mean - it is Spain, what better place to learn the Marangue?) We talked to Oscar after wards about signing up. Its 25 Euro for a month (so 5 euro a class?) I really am tempted to do it but I'll give myself a week to think about it.
After class, Dani wanted me to go with her over to these guys place for a while. I was all about going with her until I decided las moment at the bus stop to go home. I fell bad for leaving her there by herself (although I really am glad I came home) and I think she was a little upset to. O well. I hope she invites me to another dance place tmw, maybe I should invite her to my valentines party? yes, I probably should. Even though I don't know how she'll fit in the group for games. fellowshipping right?
A Ver: before I end I have to write about this couple that I met today! It is Jessica and Jeremy. Of course I only met them for about twenty minutes but so far they have impressed my expectations. They have been married for about three years working professional jobs in LA. Sick of the traffic and pressured life, they on a whim decided to do something a little crazy before they started their family and really settled down. So they packed everything up and moved to Spain! They had a friend here so he was able to help them find a place and get set up with phones, internet, bank accounts, etc. They also signed up for their beginner Spanish classes at the local University. Jeremy has a job here as well, teaching English Classes at a small organization.
Pretty much I am in love with their adventures. On top of that they seem to be the nicest people ever. Dani and I didn't know how to get back to the train station so they happily showed us where to go making sure we got there ok, and offering their place if we ever needed anything.
I don't know if anything will come out of it, but I asked Jeremy about volunteering at his job sometime. He seemed like it might work and said he would talk to me about it later. - I don't want to get my hopes up to high, but that would pretty much be amazing if I could go and help out. Again, one of my biggest goals here is to get involved, and I can't think of a more perfect way to do it.
But anyway, it wouldn't hurt to keep your fingers crossed for me.
Thanks
The class was in this random bar in Alcala. It was all empty except for about the fifteen people who showed up for the class. A woman, Jessica, from CA, has been taking classes there for the last few weeks and she is the one who lead us there. The class included us six American girls, five Spanish men, and Oscar, the teacher.
We began with simple basic steps. Most of the moves I already know from Socail 180 or just the country dances I've been to. Oscar commented on how well I followed. = )
The five Spanish men? yes they were definitely men. Ok, maybe just one seemed to be in his forties, that would be Alberto who has been taking classes there for a year and a half. He scolded me for moving my shoulders with my hips. "Just the legs!" He kept insisting.
Angel was maybe late twenties. Think of Antonio Vanderez twenty pounds heavier and week long hangover. Good dancer though, He told me to come back on Friday night to practice when the club is open. I might take him up on that.
The other three I don't remember their names. One in the brown was a terrible dancer! I couldn't believe he was native Spanish. The better of the last two had horrible BO that reaked from his body, but he was actually one of the best dancers and while I was dancing with him I weighed the costs of the smell with the great twirls.
Well I didn't learn a lot, but I had a lot of fun, Especially with the Spanish teacher and partners (I mean - it is Spain, what better place to learn the Marangue?) We talked to Oscar after wards about signing up. Its 25 Euro for a month (so 5 euro a class?) I really am tempted to do it but I'll give myself a week to think about it.
After class, Dani wanted me to go with her over to these guys place for a while. I was all about going with her until I decided las moment at the bus stop to go home. I fell bad for leaving her there by herself (although I really am glad I came home) and I think she was a little upset to. O well. I hope she invites me to another dance place tmw, maybe I should invite her to my valentines party? yes, I probably should. Even though I don't know how she'll fit in the group for games. fellowshipping right?
A Ver: before I end I have to write about this couple that I met today! It is Jessica and Jeremy. Of course I only met them for about twenty minutes but so far they have impressed my expectations. They have been married for about three years working professional jobs in LA. Sick of the traffic and pressured life, they on a whim decided to do something a little crazy before they started their family and really settled down. So they packed everything up and moved to Spain! They had a friend here so he was able to help them find a place and get set up with phones, internet, bank accounts, etc. They also signed up for their beginner Spanish classes at the local University. Jeremy has a job here as well, teaching English Classes at a small organization.
Pretty much I am in love with their adventures. On top of that they seem to be the nicest people ever. Dani and I didn't know how to get back to the train station so they happily showed us where to go making sure we got there ok, and offering their place if we ever needed anything.
I don't know if anything will come out of it, but I asked Jeremy about volunteering at his job sometime. He seemed like it might work and said he would talk to me about it later. - I don't want to get my hopes up to high, but that would pretty much be amazing if I could go and help out. Again, one of my biggest goals here is to get involved, and I can't think of a more perfect way to do it.
But anyway, it wouldn't hurt to keep your fingers crossed for me.
Thanks
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Seville
Seville:
I saw it! and I loved it! If this place is so cool, I can't wait for what other areas! I dedcided that I am in love with Mudejar. Yes, a lot. It is definelty my favorite type of architecture. I think its because, I like the colors. I like that its smaller and more ....special when you take the time to look a it. and most of all I like that its geometric. Its shapes - all made out of shapes. Isn't that cool? I also had a great idea to complete the sourvinours of my trip - I want to buy a square tile peice in every place we go , to make a larger picture woith a ll of them. we'll see how it turns out. so far, i haven't gotten any and we have all ready been through two major places (toledo, and Merida) maybe I'll see some tmw?....
ok and ten bucks to rent a bike , what do you think?I really want to ...and probably will, becasue I'm crazy! woooo!! lol.
The cathedral was amazing, its the largest gothic cathedral in the world. And its not freezing like Toldeo was. We saw the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
I finally understand what flying ventrices are.
MUDEJAR - Gr
We walked along the river side of the Guadaliral ..??? We climbed upon Triana Bridge, whihc used to be called Isabel II.
WE saw a practice procession for Holy Week that takes place in Early April. Seville is renown throughout Spain and Europe for the processions that go on during that time. It was cool to see people practicing to walk in a pararde, I didn't know that much effort went into that.
But still I have to ask my self - what can I take from this, what is it going to help me learn? become? what now? sort of a thing... that I have to think a bout a little bit more.
I'll tell you how bike riding goes tomorrow. Callie, never found me so I might be going out a lone.
Over two thousand years old. Stands at the base of the Guadalquivir river (the only river port in the Iberian Peninsula). (Alamillo bridge, really want to see it) MAny old Roman structures remain such as the: aqueduct (ogeez really excited to see this one!) the Giralda. The bell tower of the Cathedral. One of the first most important symbols in the city. It is topped with a statue, known locally as El Giraldillo, representing Faith. The tower's interior was built with ramps rather than stairs, to allow the Muezzin and others to ride to the top. really big for its time. The Torre do Oro. Just a simple cylindrical tower. It has twelve sides, and the top of the dome is covered in gold. It was used as a prison during the middle ages.
Most excited to see: The Alcazar of Seville,
Mudejar styles: a mescla from :Jewish, Christian, and Muslim.
(The biggest difference between this style and others such as the Gothic, or Romanesque, is that it does not try to create new things, but simple takes other styles and reinvents or changes them)
*Uses cheap material elaborately worked, such as brick, tile, wood, and plaster
*geometric characters
*tile patterns on walls (its amazing with what you can do with jsut a few simple shapes)
*horse show arches, windows
*squares, block towers
Took
I saw it! and I loved it! If this place is so cool, I can't wait for what other areas! I dedcided that I am in love with Mudejar. Yes, a lot. It is definelty my favorite type of architecture. I think its because, I like the colors. I like that its smaller and more ....special when you take the time to look a it. and most of all I like that its geometric. Its shapes - all made out of shapes. Isn't that cool? I also had a great idea to complete the sourvinours of my trip - I want to buy a square tile peice in every place we go , to make a larger picture woith a ll of them. we'll see how it turns out. so far, i haven't gotten any and we have all ready been through two major places (toledo, and Merida) maybe I'll see some tmw?....
ok and ten bucks to rent a bike , what do you think?I really want to ...and probably will, becasue I'm crazy! woooo!! lol.
The cathedral was amazing, its the largest gothic cathedral in the world. And its not freezing like Toldeo was. We saw the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
I finally understand what flying ventrices are.
MUDEJAR - Gr
We walked along the river side of the Guadaliral ..??? We climbed upon Triana Bridge, whihc used to be called Isabel II.
WE saw a practice procession for Holy Week that takes place in Early April. Seville is renown throughout Spain and Europe for the processions that go on during that time. It was cool to see people practicing to walk in a pararde, I didn't know that much effort went into that.
But still I have to ask my self - what can I take from this, what is it going to help me learn? become? what now? sort of a thing... that I have to think a bout a little bit more.
I'll tell you how bike riding goes tomorrow. Callie, never found me so I might be going out a lone.
Over two thousand years old. Stands at the base of the Guadalquivir river (the only river port in the Iberian Peninsula). (Alamillo bridge, really want to see it) MAny old Roman structures remain such as the: aqueduct (ogeez really excited to see this one!) the Giralda. The bell tower of the Cathedral. One of the first most important symbols in the city. It is topped with a statue, known locally as El Giraldillo, representing Faith. The tower's interior was built with ramps rather than stairs, to allow the Muezzin and others to ride to the top. really big for its time. The Torre do Oro. Just a simple cylindrical tower. It has twelve sides, and the top of the dome is covered in gold. It was used as a prison during the middle ages.
Most excited to see: The Alcazar of Seville,
Mudejar styles: a mescla from :Jewish, Christian, and Muslim.
(The biggest difference between this style and others such as the Gothic, or Romanesque, is that it does not try to create new things, but simple takes other styles and reinvents or changes them)
*Uses cheap material elaborately worked, such as brick, tile, wood, and plaster
*geometric characters
*tile patterns on walls (its amazing with what you can do with jsut a few simple shapes)
*horse show arches, windows
*squares, block towers
Took
Monday, February 4, 2008
The up coming trip and sites
Ola!
It has been a while since I have written.
This next week we are going on our first five day trip. We leave tmw at 7:45 to board the bus, then are off to Andalucia, which is the territory that covers the southern tip of Spain. While we are there, we are going to visit some prime cities, including, Granada, Cordoba, Seville, and Magala. These were all cities that were inhabited by the Moors for hundreds of years.
Granada was the last city to be brought under Castilian rule, under the riegn of Ferdinand and Isabel in 1492. It has said to have been inhabited since "the dawn of history." (yes, wikipedia baby!) How many cities in America can say that? The first treaty drafted between Granada and the new controlling Castialan rule allowed the Muslims to stay practicing with their faith unmolested. With five years, however, the Inquisition was growing, and surrounding bishops were not happy with the slow conversion rate. Soon, forced baptisms and conversions saturated the city with Christians and Moriscos (converted Muslims.) Although a lot of the Muslim structures where destroyed after the conquest, what remains is the largest collection of Muslim artifacts in Europe. The fall of Granada signifies the end of the 800 year long presence of Muslims in the Iberian Peninsula. Most excited to see: the Alhambra First moorish citadel and place, Second additions by Carlos V in a renaissance style, third Philip II, Italianized it and added many rooms inside. Before it was referred to as "a pearl set in emeralds" the pictures show the white washed buildings surrounded by the deep forest green of the cushioning trees.
Cordoba: the once capital of Caliphate of Cordoba
Under Moorish rule, it became the center for economic, and social activity. It was at this time, the largest city in Europe and most likely the world.
Most excited to see: the Mezquita was the second largest masque in the world. Inside the Mezquita, Patio de Los Naranjos. I can't wait to smell it.
Seville: Over two thousand years old. Stands at the base of the Guadalquivir river (the only river port in the Iberian Peninsula). (Alamillo bridge, really want to see it) MAny old Roman structures remain such as the: aqueduct (ogeez really excited to see this one!) the Giralda. The bell tower of the Cathedral. One of the first most important symbols in the city. It is topped with a statue, known locally as El Giraldillo, representing Faith. The tower's interior was built with ramps rather than stairs, to allow the Muezzin and others to ride to the top. really big for its time. The Torre do Oro. Just a simple cylindrical tower. It has twelve sides, and the top of the dome is covered in gold. It was used as a prison during the middle ages.
Most excited to see: The Alcazar of Seville,
Mudejar styles: a mescla from :Jewish, Christian, and Muslim.
(The biggest difference between this style and others such as the Gothic, or Romanesque, is that it does not try to create new things, but simple takes other styles and reinvents or changes them)
*Uses cheap material elaborately worked, such as brick, tile, wood, and plaster
*geometric characters
*tile patterns on walls (its amazing with what you can do with jsut a few simple shapes)
*horse show arches, windows
*squares, block towers
*Yes! I did use Wikipedia! and if you find it useful, good!
It has been a while since I have written.
This next week we are going on our first five day trip. We leave tmw at 7:45 to board the bus, then are off to Andalucia, which is the territory that covers the southern tip of Spain. While we are there, we are going to visit some prime cities, including, Granada, Cordoba, Seville, and Magala. These were all cities that were inhabited by the Moors for hundreds of years.
Granada was the last city to be brought under Castilian rule, under the riegn of Ferdinand and Isabel in 1492. It has said to have been inhabited since "the dawn of history." (yes, wikipedia baby!) How many cities in America can say that? The first treaty drafted between Granada and the new controlling Castialan rule allowed the Muslims to stay practicing with their faith unmolested. With five years, however, the Inquisition was growing, and surrounding bishops were not happy with the slow conversion rate. Soon, forced baptisms and conversions saturated the city with Christians and Moriscos (converted Muslims.) Although a lot of the Muslim structures where destroyed after the conquest, what remains is the largest collection of Muslim artifacts in Europe. The fall of Granada signifies the end of the 800 year long presence of Muslims in the Iberian Peninsula. Most excited to see: the Alhambra First moorish citadel and place, Second additions by Carlos V in a renaissance style, third Philip II, Italianized it and added many rooms inside. Before it was referred to as "a pearl set in emeralds" the pictures show the white washed buildings surrounded by the deep forest green of the cushioning trees.
Cordoba: the once capital of Caliphate of Cordoba
Under Moorish rule, it became the center for economic, and social activity. It was at this time, the largest city in Europe and most likely the world.
Most excited to see: the Mezquita was the second largest masque in the world. Inside the Mezquita, Patio de Los Naranjos. I can't wait to smell it.
Seville: Over two thousand years old. Stands at the base of the Guadalquivir river (the only river port in the Iberian Peninsula). (Alamillo bridge, really want to see it) MAny old Roman structures remain such as the: aqueduct (ogeez really excited to see this one!) the Giralda. The bell tower of the Cathedral. One of the first most important symbols in the city. It is topped with a statue, known locally as El Giraldillo, representing Faith. The tower's interior was built with ramps rather than stairs, to allow the Muezzin and others to ride to the top. really big for its time. The Torre do Oro. Just a simple cylindrical tower. It has twelve sides, and the top of the dome is covered in gold. It was used as a prison during the middle ages.
Most excited to see: The Alcazar of Seville,
Mudejar styles: a mescla from :Jewish, Christian, and Muslim.
(The biggest difference between this style and others such as the Gothic, or Romanesque, is that it does not try to create new things, but simple takes other styles and reinvents or changes them)
*Uses cheap material elaborately worked, such as brick, tile, wood, and plaster
*geometric characters
*tile patterns on walls (its amazing with what you can do with jsut a few simple shapes)
*horse show arches, windows
*squares, block towers
*Yes! I did use Wikipedia! and if you find it useful, good!
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