Vale.

Right before take off in Dallas all the lights went out on the plane, great. So for an hour we sat as the mechanic fixed the power source that started up the engine. But after a bit we took off for the other side of the Atlantic and in less than 10 hours we were in Madrid. From there we had an hour long bus ride to Segovia. Finally, I made it! After many months of planning, a mountain of paperwork, Stephine helping pack my suitcase, Stephine helping unpack my suitcase at the airport (it weighed more than 50 lbs), and support from my family and friends. Segovia and I fell in love at first sight. The cobble streets, the buildings all notched together, people walking everywhere, and women of all ages in heels. This town is like out of a book, with chic fashion and brilliant sales till the end of February. My first pair of Spanish heels has been bought. Life is set at such a different pace here; the days are longer and slower. People take a nap in the middle of the day and have dinner at 10pm. Even all the stores close during siesta time. Another difference is the way people talk here and the way I do, everyone takes note of my accent and the culture is unlike than the one I have grown up in. The same word in Spanish has a different meaning here than at home, and they use the word vale in every sentence. At home I say it when speaking of the value of something, and here they use it as an affirmation of a statement. My host-lady is very sweet, and has made us very comfortable in her apartment; it seems that there are only apartment buildings in Segovia. Much to my mom’s delight, there is a church right down the street called Iglesia de Santa Isabel. My roommate Tressa and I share a bunk bed that is shorter than the bed I had in the dorms. There is a ton to learn here and I am ready to take it all in. Classes begin on Monday and it seems we have as many free days as we have days in class. Planning our adventures is going to be fun; so far St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland is on the agenda. I am so excited about anything and everything, I thank God for everyday here. I miss so much from home, one thing in particular, but 3 months will go by in a flash.

In the airport before leaving with the most beautiful family in the world.

In Madrid.

On top of Madrid.

My future husband, do not be surprised if I bring him home with me.