I am still in disbelief that I am actually here, in Spain, living my dream that I've had for years. I began my classes, met some amazing people from all over (mostly the United States), and have been having the time of my life.
Last Wednesday, my wonderful friends, a group of students from Sewanee: The University of the South, went to visit the Prado Museum as part of the program. The things I laid my eyes on were so majestic and amazing that I could barely look away. In my Spanish classes at Manhattan, I have studied the art of Velazquez, El Greco, and even the medieval, super antique art. To see it in real life with my own eyes, and not on the page of a textbook, projector, or computer screen was surreal. Unfortunately, the Prado has a very strict no photography policy, so I could not take any pictures. But, I definitely will be going back!
After the museum visit, we made our way to a cooking class, where we learned how to make Spanish staples in the kitchen, like Tortilla de Patata, Paella, and Sangria. It was so much fun and a great bonding moment with the other students. We each worked as a team to make the paella, each of us prepping the different ingredients, like peppers, onions, chicken, calamari, and then we were shown how to finally cook the paella, in a giant, flat pan.
This might have been the highlight of the night, because the Paella, Tortilla, and Sangria were all so good I went back for seconds and even thirds. And not only that, but now I know how to make them all, and can cook a dinner for my host family :)
After the amazing meal, my new friends and I went to wander around the center of Madrid, and explored the gorgeous alleys and street corners full of life.
That next day was another great adventure, we went to visit Toledo, an amazing medieval town about an hour away from Madrid by bus. I have never seen anything like it in my life. The architecture, the river, the quiet yet lively atmosphere, was so special. It truly felt like I was in a fairy tale. We visited many different historical sites, like the Cathedral of Toledo, The Mosque, and two beautiful synagogues. This trip really showed me the religious diversity of Spain, and gave me an engaging history lesson that I will never forget. The small Mom and Pop shops were so sweet to see, and the sense of community was amazing. I loved Toledo and am so grateful for this whole experience. I am especially thankful to the Mark family for supporting me on this life changing journey :) I cannot wait to see what else this experience brings me!
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