Day 46-Portugal

To start things off today, we got to enjoy a lovely breakfast on the roof of our hotel around 9:15!  We stocked up again so we wouldn't have to buy lunch, and it was quite good!  Then we headed out for a sangria cruise!  I just thought it was cool because they took us out into the ocean, let us jump off and swim around.  The water was so cold, and it was just a cold day in general.  I think because it was so windy and everything, we had to

sit on the boat with towels wrapped around us!  But I was not going to miss a chance to jump and dive into the water.  Toba had quite a fun time trying to throw fruit into our mouths too as we treaded around.  CHECK!  Then we took smaller boats to go around and look at the caves.  They were really cool to see, and it was just crazy to see how the light was reflected in certain parts of the water and literally looked like there was a light shining on it.  Our driver was really funny too because he kept trying to talk to us in English, but we had no idea what he was saying, except for, "LOOK!!!!!"  Sometimes we'd catch bits and pieces too, like there was a chinese face, Michael Jackson's face, a camel, King Kong, and an elephant all shaped in the caves.  Then we just spent some more time enjoying the sailboat, talking with the Andrews, an older guy I met named Ryan, and one of the guides, Manu.  I did not know him too well before coming, but I just love him!  He is SO funny and just easy to talk to!  Then we headed to the beach for the day!!  We of

course took some pictures, juggled the soccer ball around again, and then actually got to play a game with little nets.  It was so much fun!  Of course it was a little difficult with the sand, but we were all just laughing and having a good time, especially because they kept making a big deal about this kid, George, and how he was their MVP and doing everything.  I then spent a while talking with him which was sweet because after hearing he was a counselor, our conversation segwayed to  being Christians, how that plays out at Texas A & M, the Christian bubble, being a leader in his Christian frat and our struggles being here.  It was totally unexpected, yet great to be able to have that type of conversation with another believer.  Then I just got to enjoy laying out for a while and then finally decided to get in.  As I headed to the water, Manu made me try skim boarding (which I am SO afraid of after spraining my ankle).  I tried to tell him I was afraid, but he would not let off, so I finally gave in and just jumped off after like 2 seconds, but hey, I did it!  Then I SLOWLY waded in, and as cold as it was--I mean it kind of took my breath away--it felt good and was beautiful!  I could see the whole way down to my feet: that's my kind of water!  Manu joined me a few minutes later, and we got to talk about how he got involved in DiscoverSevilla and what he used to do and may do in the future.  It's just cool to get to know new people, and I can just tell he's got an interesting story.  Unfortunately, it was then about time to go, so we packed up, he let me try this delicious ice cream treat, and then we packed onto the buses.  We got back to the hotel with plenty of time, so I showered and then headed up to the pool, which was on the terrace because I wanted to read.  I started to pray and for some reason Manu was on my heart, and I kept thinking about what he would think if he knew I was a believer.  A big part of all of their jobs is basically to party with study abroad students, so it is VERY weird when there is someone who does not party like them.  Well of course who do I look over and see walking right in my direction on the roof: Manu!  He came over and asked what I was reading, and I said, "The Bible."  And he just looked and kind of laughed and was like, "Are you serious?"  I said yes and he asked to see it, then asked why I read it.  I tried to tell him that I like it and he asked what I believe.  I told him that God created the world, and Jesus came and died to forgive us of our sins.  He told me then that he thinks you just need to be a good person to everyone and that's good enough.  It stinks because he is a great person!!  He is SO kind and generous.  (A couple minutes later he asked me to go down to the pool stand and he kept trying to feed me).  He can also see a lot of the flaws in the church and religion, and I think that is a bit of a problem for him.  Afterwards I kept feeling like I had not done/said enough but then had to remember once again that it is not about me!!!  I need to do the planting but God will do the cultivating!  So we sat and he ate and told me some more about his past jobs and himself.
Then we headed out to what they used to think was "the end of the world."  We got to watch the sunset here, and it was so beautiful, but SOOO windy.  It's crazy that we left Sevilla, disgustingly hot, and now we're in Portugal in jeans and a fleece and could definitely use a blanket!  So we huddled and watch the sunset then headed into the city center for dinner.  Tonight we got to go to a more authentic Portuguese restaurant.  I got swordfish and potatoes and it was delicious!  The fish kind of reminded me of salmon, but nothing I have ever had!  We enjoyed that for a while and then headed to the bar to just talk and dance for a little while.  We were all kind of exhausted though, so we headed back around 1:30.  Ah I love it here! :)

Day 45-Ocupado...NO! Obrigada!!!

 I figured I should get up early again today so I could study some more and have time to shower.  My teacher made our exam start at 11 today, and told us that he would still go in at 10 if we wanted to review or ask questions.  Clearly, I decided to go in, and then we began at 11!  The test was definitely not as easy as the first, but it was not awful, so that's good.  I just still can't believe that's it for this class.  I had to say bye to some people too because we were leaving to go to Portugal, so that was the last time we were going to see some of the people who were leaving after session 2...that's so weird that some people we started with will be gone when we get back!  Anyway, I headed home to have some chicken and fries and then quickly finish packing and my diary.  I submitted it just as I needed to leave, then met Elise and headed to the bus!  ALL DONE with Tres Culturas!!!  On the bus we got to watch Cool Runnings, which was great because I've wanted to see it for a long time.  It's definitely a good movie!  Then I wrote some more and talked with Elise, Mary and Megan: I'm so glad they decided to come along too!  Then after about 3 hours and 15 minutes, we got to our hotel, and it had an amazing location!  It was literally overlooking the beach, had a pool on the roof, and the inside was nice too!  I stayed with Elise, so we changed quickly and headed down to the beach.  It was gorgeous!  It's so different from anywhere I have been because there are just these huge boulders jutting out of the water (which is gorgeous and clear)!  However, the water was COLD, but the sand felt so nice!  We took some pictures, tried to wade in a little, and then I started soccer juggling with some people.  We eventually started playing keep away, but it's a lot harder on the beach because it's so much harder to kick!  Everyone else went up to the hotel early, so I stayed down with three Andrews from Richmond and got to know them.  It's kind of cool being on a trip where we don't really know anyone except the three of us, so now we get the chance to be friendly!!
Afterwards we headed down to the center for dinner.  I walked with Toba, who is one of the guides, and he is kind of crazy!  But on the way down, we just got to talking and had kind of a heart to heart, where he started telling me about his past relationships and how he cannot get too attached to anyone now because people are hard to trust and they always end up leaving, which makes sense in his job (working with study abroad students).

 Anyway, they took us to this burger place that had the Toucan Burger, which is in the Top 50 burgers in the world, so of course I had to try it!  It was huge, but not a problem for me either.  It had the normal cheese, tomato, lettuce, and then bacon and pineapple!  It was really good and came with delicious fries and sangria too!  We got to sit with the Andrews again and get to know them a little better and just had a really good time!  We had some extra time until our next thing, so we walked back to the hotel.  The others wanted to go "pre-game" so I figured that was my cue to go get some much needed time in the Word!  I was SO tired though that I ended up falling asleep for like 20 minutes but luckily Elise came back to wake me up!  The plan for tonight was to go to a little discoteca.  It actually ended up being a lot of fun because we danced, had a good time watching this one  girl go crazy, and met a lot of new people.  One boy, Manny, from El Salvador, was a GREAT dancer, so I got him to show me some (I believe) Salsa moves, and it's so fun when you can dance with someone who knows what he's doing, even though I was confused!!  Then the rest of us just had a great time getting to know others and finally learning the Ai Se Eu Te Pego

dance.  I got to talk with Kevin for a while, who was really nice but kept getting more friendly as he kept drinking, so when he offered to walk me back, I knew I was definitely going with my girls.  Then we got back to the hotel and got to bed around 2:30!

Day 44-Estudiando y Hablando

Today I woke up to yet another fantastic surprise of a special song video from a friend.  I quickly watched it before I had to head off to school.  I was going in a little early to meet Tiffany because we wanted to get our next free weekend planned a bit.  We were trying to book our flight, but kept having trouble because the prices kept changing or denying us.  We ended up just going to class and then taking care of it during our break.  We officially booked our flight to go to Rome!!!! I can hardly believe it! :)  It should be fun too because we'll have a different group going then who I have spent a lot of time with, so I think that will be great!  At the end of class, we all got to go around and say something we have learned, which was actually kind of cool!  I can't believe tomorrow is our last day of this class though already.  Only one more class.....

Afterwards, I went home and had lunch with my señora and then worked on my diary assignment for class.  Then Alice wanted me to help her buying her flight, so we had to skype for about an hour for her to figure it out, but she should be good to go now too!  Then I went to meet Tiffany and Michelle at McDonald's (of all places) to study for our test.  We spent a good 2 and a half hours, but I just still do not feel great about this content.  It is just more complex than the first half, and there is not as much information, so I am concerned about what he is going to ask.  The one good thing is that he said it is the same setup as our first!  I guess we'll find out soon enough.  Then I headed home, and passed this random lady just floating in the air...?!?  Then time for dinner: some meatballs(ish) and potatoes.  Then I spent pretty much the rest of the evening talking!!!! (not too unusual for me!)  I got to skype with my mom and catch up on a ton of things and then with my sister!  Both were absolutely wonderful!  I attempted to work on my diary a little more than had to get to sleep around 2!  AH EXAM TOMORROW!!!!

Day 43-Jugamos a los bolos

 Today was another typical day of class then chicken, chorizo, chic pea, and vegetable soup for lunch.  Then I spent a while reading, until I had the most wonderful surprise of getting to skype with Kelsey-Lane and hearing what's been going on in her life and how the Lord is clearly working in both of us!
Then our class met for an activity to go bowling!  It was a lot of fun and of course they all got a kick out of my leg kick every time I roll the ball.  I was winning the whole time but ended up losing in the last frame by 2, which was a bummer cause the winner got a flag!

Then we had a long metro ride back and while on it, the two boys who had talked with me in Granada struck up conversation again.  They wanted to know about tattoos, the Old Testament, and homosexuality again.  I tried to explain how all sins separate us from God and so we all need God.  Even though they think good people should go to Heaven, I tried to explain that even just one sin cancels out all the good if we don't have a relationship with Christ and are forgiven.  We also talked about some of the problems with religion itself and how it's just important to have Jesus as our Savior.  Once again, I just couldn't believe God was opening these opportunities.  Then one kid tried to come and tell me how differently he would've answered some of their questions, but then later went on to tell me he didn't think God was fair, believe in all the Old Testament, or believe in Hell--so I just had to take his comment with a grain of salt.
Then it was time for the Semi Finals of the Euro Cup!  Spain was playing Portugal.  We tried to go to La Setas, but the line was so long, so we just ended up at a bar, which was fun cause I got to talk more with Tiffany as well.  Everyone wanted to leave though when regulation ended, but there was no way I was, so I just stayed and watched with some Spanish people, which was actually really exciting cause we won in PK's!!!  Then I headed home, finished Mockingjay :) around 2:30 and crashed!!

Day 42-OYE

 We had an excursion today, so our class went to a Castle that was used during the Inquisition.  We got little devices that gave us a tour in Spanish, so the whole thing was a little confusing but interesting.  It's kind of sad though to see that the people just killed and tortured others if they did not have the same catholic beliefs--it just doesn't seem right.  We got to see a little movie about how people just claimed some lady was a witch and she was killed!  We also saw some remains, which were cool.  Then our class sat outside for a little to recap.  Since we were so far from my house and my señora had given me a bocadillo because she's visiting her daughter who had surgery, I decided to go to Plaza de España to read.  On my way, I passed some tents, a bunch

of men with the same t-shirts and police cars and saw later on the news that it was a protest of ex-workers!  Then I got to the park and found a little bench by the water, ate and then I started to read Mockingjay for the next couple hours.  My friend lent it to me and she's leaving Saturday, so I need to finish soon!  Then after a crazy incident I headed home to read a little more.  Then we had a cultural activity, which was to Palacio Lebrija.  It

was neat to see because once again, the mosaics and details and everything were gorgeous--I was just so tired!  Then I went home and finally got to skype with Sonja!  It was wonderful to catch up with her!  Then I had dinner with my señora and then read for a couple more hours until I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer.  Once again, I am so into this book!

Day 41-Tiempo a relajarse

Today was an early morning because I am still wiped from our trip, so I decided today would be one of those not-really-doing-anything kind of days.  We had class, then I went and bought this mix of white and chocolate nutellas and some pretzel sticks, and I think this may be one of the greatest things created--so good!  Then I just spent some time catching up on things I needed to, listening to a Chan sermon, cleaning, finishing letters, and booking it to the Post Office.  I don't think my señora was too happy because she had just started dinner, but it's so hard to know since we eat at different times.  The post office closed in 40 minutes though and I really wanted to get there, so I just hurried then came back and enjoyed delicious tortilla.  Then I spent a while trying to figure out my flight plans for Germany and think I'm finally squared away even though it was more than I'd wanted.  At least I'm good to go!

Day 40-Adios Barcelona

Today was our last day in Barcelona, but we had done so much the last couple days that we honestly were not sure what was in store for today. We slept in til like 9:30 then read, grabbed some breakfast and checked out.  Then we just decided to look and see if there was anything else recommended to do, so I just my e-mail real quick and saw that I got a perfect on my test, which is just incredible to once again see how the Lord was sovereign over that and helped get me through what I thought might be almost impossible.  We finally decided just to walk La Rambla again and go from there.  The others were hungry, so we stopped for a little to get them something to eat.  I didn't want the whole day to feel like a waste, so I had looked up some things to see, and there were only like two more things I thought we should try to visit, and they were close so we just got to go see the outsides really quickly.  The first building was the Palau Guell, which was designed by Gaudi.  It was a huge, beautiful building mixed in with ordinary ones.

Then we headed over to the Placa Real, which was this big, beautiful setup, with the building, palm trees, and open space.  I thought it was a really cute area because there were people out and about, talking, eating, and shopping.  There were many little stands set up that seemed to have
collections of some sort.  Afterwards we just walked back on La Rambla and got some ice cream.  This time I tried Avellana, which is hazlenut, and nutella in a chocolate cone and it was SO delicious.  We sat and ate for a little then finally headed to the metro.  It was a good thing we left with some extra time because it ended up being more confusing than we had expected and had to ask for help with the metro and then how to get to our airport.  Once we arrived, that part was pretty easy and I just sat and wrote until boarding.  We finally got on, and I got a nice window seat and was able to sleep for a little bit.  Then we got back and Olivia and I took the bus back because it was cheaper but a bit of an adventure.  I finally got home around 8:30, had some dinner, and skyped my parents!!  I was so exhausted though, so I uploaded some pictures and then tried to get to bed a little bit after!  What a WONDERFUL WEEKEND!!! (ah but class should be interesting tomorrow...)

Day 39-Muchas sorpresas

We decided today would be a little bit more relaxed than the other days so we woke up, and I decided to go sit on the terrace to eat a little and read my Bible.  Then the others joined me and we left around 10:30 to head to the Contemporary Art Museum.  I don't think it was quite like what any of us were expecting.  The first section was all about this tube utopia the people in Spain tried to build, and it basically looked like a big hamster maze; it was cool though.  They showed them on videos, documents, and pictures.  The next section was just weird because it documented a prostitute and too many naked people.  The next section was all about a certain architect.  One of my favorites was a video they had produced, which discussed whether we should preserve remains that we find from our past or whether we should continue to develop more and more.  The last exhibition was of an artist, Reba McBride, who had built the Mae West in Germany.  We watched an odd documentary about that and saw some of her other work.  Afterwards, we decided to go to the famous Boqueria market, which was similar to yesterday but had so much more!  The girls all got food, and I decided to try a salmon
croqueta, and it was one of the best croquetas I have had yet!  It was so cool to see all the different foods and set ups, except for the different dead animals and pig foot I saw that made me want to gag.  Other than that, it was cool to see!  The others then needed to break but I was getting antsy to finally get to the beach!  We continued walking down the Rambla then and finally got to the part, where there are a bunch of different entertainers: like they paint themselves and take pictures with people to make money.  It's kind of funny, but I would not want to be a statue every single day.  I got my picture with a gold lady, but I was totally not expecting her to touch my head, so that gave me a slight spook.  Anyway, then we headed down to Barceloneta.  On our way, we stopped at a couple stands and all bought diademas, which are like headbands/scarves!  The lady tied it around my head, and it was quite an impulse
decision, but I love it and feel quite Spanish. :)  Then we made it to the beach, met some people, took some pics, were shocked at all the casual topless women, laughed for a long time about this little boy who "hace pipí en el agua," swam, and talked.  It was great except after about an hour and a half or so, we were all pretty chilly.  We decided to walk around for a little bit, found another working out place, where a bunch of guys were doing pull ups and stuff.  Of course I had to try one but just looked like an idiot!  Then we rinsed off, got complimented on my hair by a Brazilian man--these diademas must be working!, and decided to find a place for dinner.  We had asked a worker at our hostel for some recommendations, but we could not find any of them.  Then we realized the Spain game was on TV, so I really wanted to find a restaurant with the game.  On our walk, a boy was sitting outside of his house and threw a firecracker at Olivia's leg.  Needless to say
she was not very happy and just turned to him and was like, "DUDE!"  Haha, not sure that's the best way to approach the situation, but then we just kept joking with her cause she kept complaining how her leg hurt cause the boy was throwing fire at her--maybe because she's blonde?!  Today was also the Fiesta de San Juan, where the people of Barcelona basically has a lot of fires, fireworks, and a big party on the beach.  The people then go swimming at dawn the next morning.  We finally chose a little place that we had walked past that looked really good, and it was cheap and had a TV I could somewhat see.  I had a sweet ham sandwich that was so good.  The coolest part though was that Olivia struck up another conversation about my faith.  The one girl was Jewish and the other had been raised Catholic, so we had quite the interesting conversation.  They again asked me about homosexuals, abortion, what it means to have a relationship with Christ, why it is important to me, why I follow it so strictly, if I only follow it because of my parents, whether you still go to Heaven if there's one thing you don't believe about the Bible, what happens if you're sinning but you don't know it, and what is my biggest struggle. They sure kept the questions coming.  Shayna does not believe that people should be forcing religion on her, which I tried to say that I agree with because I don't think that's the way we are called to do it, but then she just did not think people should be following the Bible because times have changed, which that I do not agree with.  They also wanted to know the difference between the old and new testaments, so I tried to generally explain that when Christ came, He brought us the new covenant.  Ultimately I tried to explain that a lot of the things they believe about Christians--REAL Christians that is--are not true.  If we are living by the Bible and like Christ did, we should not be judgmental, but doing everything out of love.  I told them we are of course trying to spread the message and want everyone to know God, but a lot of that is done by the way we live our lives!  When explaining why I live it out, I was not quite sure what to say at first because that's such a loaded question.
What I know is that Christ gives me hope, love, joy, and peace.  He forgives me and gives me a purpose to my life!  I also tried to explain to them that we get so hung up on the little things, but I think what is really important is that God ultimately knows the true state of our heart and he knows our intentions!  Anyway, it was just cool to see God continuing to OPEN doors and to keep stirring in my friends' hearts.  Then we decided to grab some ice cream, and I think it may have been the best I have had so far in Spain!!!  Chocolate brownie and dulce de leche temptation: it really was incredible!
Then we headed back to the beach, so we could watch the fireworks and enjoy the celebration.  We had NO idea what we were about to get ourselves
into.  There were firecrackers and sparklers being
set off everywhere.  We finally found a spot on the beach, actually next to some Americans.  We could not believe how parents let their 4 year old run around with lighter setting off firecrackers.  There were literally fireworks going off in all directions as well and people drinking everywhere.  Drinking + Fire ≠ Good Combination.  I think we were all a little taken aback, but then I could not believe what happened.  I had put my backpack behind me so I could lay down to watch the fireworks.  Well, we sat up to take this picture, started laughing as we were looking at it, and then I turned around to grab my bag, and what do I see but about a 40 year old man and woman hunched down on top of my bag.  It was unzipped and my camera case was on the ground, which was the dead give away that they had been in my bag.  I am not sure my adrenaline or reactions have ever hit me that quick, but I was on my feet in an instant in their face yelling, "What are you doing?"  Somehow, I think I actually ended up scaring them, and they both just started shaking their heads and hands.  I eventually was like, "What did you take?"  Their response was the same, so the only thing I knew to do was to start going through the stuff in my bag to make sure.  I knew I had my camera and so when I found my purse with everything still in it, I figured I was okay.  I think they must have literally just sat down, opened it, and put their hands in when I turned around because the girls beside us kept saying that they saw them inside the bag feeling around.  Even though I thought I had everything that was there to begin with, I kept thinking I may have forgotten something, and the feeling of having someone in my bag was so unnerving.  Olivia was then like, "Why were you in her bag?"  And they were like "No..." like the didn't understand, so I got real close to the woman and was like "¿PORQUÉ?"  She literally looked at me and goes, "No entiendo."  And they ran away.  Really, you're going to answer me IN SPANISH and say you don't understand my Spanish question--that makes sense.  But anyway, I sat back down with my heart pounding and explained what happened to Lauren and Shayna because they were so confused since it happened so fast.  The really cool thing though was Shayna looked at me and said, "It's a good thing you have a really good relationship with Christ."  :)  Even though I'm pretty sure it was a joke, she clearly was still thinking and all I was thinking was that is such the truth.  I know there are so many people praying for me, and it was not just a coincidence that I turned around literally at just the right time.  I think all of us were just kind of shaken up, so we left shortly after, saw a firecracker get thrown into a porta-potty and start smoking and BOOKED it back to the hostel.  We finally got back around 2:00 and felt good to be safe and sound!

Day 38-Barcelona es increíble

We had a full day planned out for us today, so we woke up early, around 8, got ready and had some breakfast, which we loaded up on to hold us over for a while.  It was good too--juice, cereal, bread and nutella, and banana yogurt!  Then we went to our big bus stop and headed out for our total Tourist bus trip for the day.  We were able to get on and off whenever we wanted and we had headphones that talked as we rode around.  Our first stop was Montujic, which was sweet.  We took a cable car up to the top of a mountain and saw a military castle and some beautiful views of the city.  We smelled the ocean, which smelled 

like starch--it was the craziest smell--i think it made us all drool a little.  We rode around some more then got off at Port Vell.  This was a nice little area just to walk around, feel the breeze and see the boats.  The only bad thing was we got separated from Olivia and Shayna as we were walking around.  They had gone into this little shopping center, but we had no idea that they did, so Lauren and I walked around for a little and then thankfully found them.  Then we sat by the water for a little and enjoyed some colorful, sweet kettle corn.
Afterwards, we went to Parc de la Ciutadella.  It was a beautiful park, where tons of people were hanging out, eating reading, talking, and just having a good time.  There were a few buildings, some art, and gardens.  Near the middle was a big lake, where you could go boating, and then near it were a huge elephant statue and this amazing water fall/fountain creation.  Then we rode some more until we got to Barri Gotic, which was a big neighborhood that was very gothic styled.  We walked through a big market, saw a cathedral, and walked through some stores and streets.  Then we got back on the bus and decided to just spend some time riding around and listening to the stores
because as much as we wanted to see everything, it was just not possible to get off at every stop.  While we rode, we got to see a royal palace and the Barcelona Soccer Club/Stadium!
Then we headed to the Magic Fountain, but unfortunately water was not working at that time.  At least we got to see it though and got a much closer look at their Plaza de España.  Then we went to the 1992 Olympic Stadium, which I thought was really cool to see.  At this point it was about 7:50, and the last bus they sent out wast at 8, so we decided to catch it and take it to Port Olimpic.  It was a port over looking the beach, and we decided to get dinner on the ocean.  We got Seafood Paella, which is a

Spanish specialty.  We were so hungry, so we devoured the two dishes.  We had a great time just hanging out by the water, talking, and eating, but we were wiped once again, so we walked home, showered, and finally went to sleep around 2!  LOVING BARCELONA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

Day 37-¡Que día fantástico!

 Oh how this morning came way too fast!  I got up at 4, grabbed my stuff and went to meet the girls for a taxi.  I will say that was kind of creepy walking there because it was one of the first times that Seville has actually been kind of deserted.  We met and got our taxi, but luckily I asked Olivia if she had her passport and she just gave me a blank look and was like, "No..."  We didn't know why we needed one cause we're not leaving the country, but we all knew we needed them--don't know how she missed that.  Luckily, we were able to swing by her house to get it.  Then we got to the airport and checkin in and were through security by 5:15.  Our plane didn't leave til 8:05!  I knew that we were leaving way too early, but two of the girls were freaked out and thought we needed all that time.  We basically ended up just sitting there, trying but failing to sleep, so I wrote.  Then we boarded the plane and luckily got through without making sure our bags met the dimensions.  The flight had such pretty views!  I only slept like 15 minutes but still something!  We finally arrived and were so proud we did it and had no trouble!  I don't know why, it if was a lack of sleep or what, but I could just tell my attitude was not great.  I really wanted to be excited, so I knew it was something to take up with the Lord.  I had a lot on my mind, so I just had to ask him to take it from me, give me His joy and bless our weekend.  Oh how good and faithful our God is!
We figured out how to take the metro,  then arrived at our hostal.  We couldn't check in for a few hours, so we just went to the eating/hangout room and made our game plan. We decided to see Sagrada Familia.  I do not even have words for this place because it was SO incredible.  It was the work of Gaudi, and it's been worked on for 40+ years and still isn't finished.  This was his dream and we helped to keep it going!  At first we were just blown away by the building (it's a cathedral_ because it's amazing and so detailed.  Then we decided to go inside and it was an amazing decision.  There were so many things that blew us away: like the pillars, the stained glass windows, the crucifixion, the lighting...so much!  I was just so impressed with how much thought he put into it and how intentional everything was--from the way the pillars would best project the choir voices to the natural lighting that would shine from the holes in the ceiling.  There were also 2 facades: one of the birth and one of the death.  They were spectacular with so much detail.  On the outside, they even had these creatures that were running

away because of their close proximity to the saints.  It could also hold 1,000 people in the choir.  We got headphones that walked us through the tour, which is how we learned all of this.  I also got say the Lord's Prayer and spend some time praying.  Afterwards the girls were hungry, so we stopped at a restaurant .  Good thing my señora had given me a bocadillo that I'd devoured earlier.  Then we tried to get back to Urbany Hostal.  We got a little confused but made it back without too much trouble.  We decided it'd be a good idea to take like a 2 hour siesta and then we

 got up to go to Park Güell.  We figured out how to take a bus, but at one stop it turned off 3 times, wouldn't start, and then started chugging down the hill!  We got off that bus!!!  Luckily the park was only like 3 minutes from there.  It was such a neat park and Gaudi had really influenced it as well.  The landscaping was beautiful as well as intriguing architecture.  Then we got to the coolest part, which was a bunch of mosaic benches and lizard and these building that looked like gingerbread houses.  The sun was setting, so we decided to have a fun little photo shoot.  Then I found a Catalan restaurant in my brochure, so we

decided to find it, and we all absolutely loved it and got to try some unique dishes.  I had an apple stuffed with minced meat and pork, topped with a little basil, oil, and cheese.  It was very interesting and quite good!  I also tried a piece of duck from of the other's--big deal for me!  For dessert I tried a Catalan specialty, which was ricotta cheese and walnuts drizzle in honey.  Again, it was different but good.  they also brought us dessert wine that we shared and like threw back in your mouth, which the man explained after he saw me drinking from it...AWKWARD...but it was amazing!!!  Afterwards, we walked back to our hostal, got there around 1 and crashedddd!!!!

Day 36-Examen y Empacando

Well I decided to get up early again today so I could review the study guide I made and then
look over all my notes.  By the end, I felt like there was not much more I could do.  I then watched a quick video from a friend and headed off to meet Michelle for a last quick review.  We finally got the test and I could not believe how general the questions were and how easy it seemed.  Granted, once again, I knew everything but may not have portrayed it correctly or how he was expecting, so we'll see, but so good to have it done.  Then we had a break but then had to go back to class.  That hour was ROUGH because my brain was fried.  I don't do well with taking an exam and then trying to have class after--I just could not pay attention.  Then I met with

my tutor for the last time because she is going on vacations, so hopefully I will get a new one.  Then I went home for some lunch of little fishies with my señora.  It still makes me laugh when I look down and see bones and tails as the remains on my plate.  Who am I?!?                                     Then I had catch up time!  I got to skype with my mom and Conroy, which were wonderful!  Then Owen and I went and played soccer!  These guys are just way too good for me, but I have a lot of fun playing and I think they are warming up to me, especially after they got a good laugh when one guy pushed me and I literally ended up on the group in between his legs.  Matt, one guy from our group, is making a video for DiscoverSevilla, so he filmed interviews and us playing, so hopefully it's not all horrible footage...:)

After the game I met the girls I'm going to Barcelona with to chat for just a few minutes and then I headed home.  I know my señora does not like to be up late, so I tried to leave her a note to just leave food in the fridge, so she didn't have to wait up, but i wrote the note running out the door and didn't know how to properly say what I wanted.  When I got back, she was still up and in the kitchen and apparently didn't understand!  But she was nice enough to make me gazpacho and a grilled chorizo and cheese sandwich--SO DELICIOUS!!  And she made such cute fruit/coffee spread since I'm leaving so early in the morning.  Then I got to skype with my sis, pack up my stuff, and got to bed around 12:30.  Now I'm just hoping I wake up from like 5 alarms I have set tomorrow! 

Day 35-Estudiando y la película

Today we had class, which was pretty interesting because the first half we were split into 3 groups and all had different articles to read.  Then each group present our articles and discussed them--they were about mulisms and the burka and discrimination.  It was interesting to hear because they showed that girls are often kicked out of school for wearing the hijab and employers will give extra taxes.  They say it may hinder religious freedom and tolerance but isn't that exactly what they're doing by not allowing it?!  We also learned that the women often want to wear the burka because they see that as their form of identity and it's not just an evil ploy of the men.  Anyway, then we reviewed for our exam and then printed our boarding passes for Barcelona! Woo!

Then we had a cultural activity, which was to go to Casa Pilatos.  It was really cool to see, except that a lot of places are blending together, but Ángel was our guide again, and he came to me and said, "Make sure you never miss me!"  (Meaning to always go on his tours).  It was another beautiful palace, but the coolest part of the whole things was that "apparently" the pillar that Jesus held onto while He was beaten was there.  Ángel doesn't believe it's real, but whether it is or not, it was enough to see to make me catch my breath.  Actually seeing the pillar in front of me 

and being able to visualize Jesus's suffering and all that He did for me through that was quite humbling and emotional.

After the tour, I headed home to skype with Mags and then went to meet Tiffany to study for our exam tomorrow.  We also go to talking and she wants to go to a Bible Sutdy with me!  And if it's over our head, she wants to do our own!  Praise the Lord!)  We studied for a good like 2.5 hours and I felt so much better after and fell like I actually understand and know the information pretty well. Honestly, it is pretty interesting.  Some of the history is cool to know and to see how things have changed, but I especially like learning about the different parts of the religions.  

Then I had Juevo Flamenco back at my house with my señora, which is a special Andalusian dish--vegetables and potatoes in a tomato sauce with an egg on top, rather interesting. Then we met for a class activity, but hardly anyone showed because they wanted to study.  I felt like I had put in a good amount of study time over the last week, and I want all these experiences, so I went.  My guide knew how much I liked milkshakes, so since we had extra time, the group of us went and got some--chocolate strawberry!!!  Then we went to see a movie and it was really cool because it was like in the building but there was no roof and it played on a big projector.  It kind of felt like a drive-in.  They oddly enough showed To Kill a Mockingbird, which I've seen but I love that book!  I was hoping for a Spanish movie but it had Spanish subtitles, so it was kind of cool to follow along that way and to see some of the ways they translated phrases.  It's a long movie though, so it took a lot to stay awake, but then I got back a little after 1, tried to study for a few and just had to get some rest!

Day 34-Billetes y el concierto

So today we were back at it, heading to school in the morning and learning so much in class.  For some reason, this class is just quite difficult, and it just felt like it dragged on forever.  I think the fact that I knew my Penn State football tickets were looming over my head did not help either.  I just kept watching my clock to see when I should go because my plan was just to leave class five minutes early and hope he didn´t really care.  I was trying to brace myself incase I couldn´t get them because they are just tickets afterall, but I still REALLY wanted them!  My mom was going to try to get my tickets too, but as WONDERFUL as she is, the computer is by no means her area of expertise.  Luckily, with like 6 minutes to go in class, he started passing out papers and someone was going to present, so I made a quick escape.  I got down to the computer lab and there were 5 of us all trying to get tickets.  This was one of the most intense, adrenaline rush moments.  We were all so anxious to get them, but when we logged in, it kept saying there were no events.  At first we thought nothing of it, but when it hit 1:05, we started freaking out.  Luckily, my one friend on Facebook had posted a new link, so I got to that, and then posted it for the others.  We all finally got in, and I was the first one going through the steps.  I got to the last one, and the message, "There are no more tickets for this even," flashed on my screen.  My stomach turned as I yelled, followed by all the others yelling too, realizing they would not be able to get tickets either.  Then one girl said, "Oh well hey I just got them."  What??  So I checked my e-mail just in case, and I had a confirmation.  My emotions were going up and down like crazy.  Then I finally realized I had been locked out because my mom had gotten them for me!!!  (Clearly, she´s the best...with the help of my dad! :))  Then all the others got them too!  I think we were all shaking for like the next 15 minutes: quite the experience!  Then I went home for lunch with my senora: the delcious bean and rice chili-type soup.  Then I did some work to study for my exam, worked on some pictures, had dinner, and then got to skype with my mom!  Spain was playing Croatia tonight, so then I went and met Alice and her intercambio to watch some of the game at a bar because La Setas was crazy crowded (hopefully another night I´ll go). After halftime we had to leave because we were going to a concert in the gardens of the Alcazar.    

It was really cool!  We also met up with Jenna and spent some time walking around the gardens because it looked so beautiful and peaceful at night.  We learned some more Spanish and just enjoyed the atmosphere.  Then we sat down for the show!  It was a man and woman, and they sang in Portugese.  He played a couple guitars too.  It was so relaxing, but obviously we couldn't understand.  They spoke in Spanish and everyone kept laughing, but that was over our heads as well.  Even still, it was really nice to hear, especially sitting in the gardens, and we enjoyed it!

Afterwards, we walked home and Alice's intercambio told us that the girl was actually kind of offensive because she kept talking about politics!  Haha, we had no idea!!!  The only bad thing was that I was SOOO tired, but so I headed back and went to sleeeeeep!

Day 33-El monasterio y más vistas

We got up today around 9 for a delightful breakfast!  They had so many things again, like eggs, pastries, baconnn, bread, coffee, hot chocolate, juice, fruit, and we thoroughly enjoyed it.  Then there was an optional tour of a monastery, and it was one of my favorite things that I have seen.  It was so cool to see because I learned a lot, and the room where they had the services was simply SPECTACULAR.  I think my mouth hung open for a solid minute because I could not believe it.  It was baroque style and they said that they did not like to leave an inch uncovered.  There was so much gold too, so it made it shine!  There were some creepy pictures, that displayed the death and suffering of other monks (martyrs), which apparently were there to remind the monks of the cost of the faith.  We got to see where they kept the eucharist.  Plus, I remembered some of what Ángel had told me yesterday and he was really proud!  I also got to talk to some more girls about religion today, and one girl, Tiffany overheard us and said she wanted to go to a Bible study, so I am going to try to follow up with her for sure!!!!  Then we went back to the hotel to meet with the others and have lunch, 

 which was similar to yesterday but also some great pasta and I tried some mussels in their shells.  After lunch, we went to a neighborhood and walked around and learned that this here, the Pomegranate, is the symbol for Granada!  It was a cute neighborhood, but it was excruciatingly hot today!  We did get to see some cool views too, but yesterday was definitely a better overall tour.  Before leaving we also went to the Royal Chapel, where King Ferdinand and Isabel were buried, and we got to see their tombs.  Shortly after, we all boarded the bus to head home.  These trips are wonderful, but on the way home, I think we are usually all just pretty anxious to get back, especially knowing that we have class in the morning.  We made it home and I had dinner, noodle soup and tortilla, and told my señora about the trip.  Then I tried to get caught up on some things, quickly talked to my parents about football tickets (which I don't know what I'm going to do about), and then went to bed because I was SOO tired.  (But Elise just finished Mockingjay, so now I have it; this could be bad, might have to use some extreme self control!!!)

Day 32-Granada

 Today we left for Granada, which everyone just kept telling me I was going to love because it was so beautiful!!!!  Well, everything we have pretty much seen has been great, so I didn't really know what to expect, but we took off for our almost 3 hour bus ride around 8:30.  I couldn't sleep for some reason, but got to write some letters and get some things done.  Then we arrived and went to our hotel.  Once again, it was beautiful and we even had a pool!  We split into our rooms, and I stayed with Laura and Megan, who I don't know well, but got to know better and they're great!  After taking a quick siesta, we headed down for a buffet at our hotel, and it was amazing!  They had so much for us to choose from: paella, real squid (which I tried!), meat, fries, salad, ice cream, fruit, pudding, bread, guacamole, and so much more!  After lunch, where I got to talk with Alice and some of the sweet new girls, Alice and I headed to the pool.  That was quite the experience because Alice did not know how to swim.  She was absolutely petrified, and even in the areas where she would be able to stand, she held on to me the whole time.  After about 20 minutes, I finally got her to let me hold her as she kicked around.  Bless her heart; she at least tried, and we got her to blow some bubbles!  It felt so nice though!!!  Then we had to get out to get ready for the tour!  It was such a wonderful tour because we went to the Alhambra!  It was a big mosque in the past and had the saying,  "There is only one God, Allah, and Muhammad is his prophet" in Arabic all over the walls.  We got to see their praying rooms, royal

rooms, and so much more.  The details were amazing, and we saw some beautiful gardens once again.  This place had some of the most incredible views, as you can see in these pictures, that overlooked the city.  We went with Ángel again and he was great!  This tour was much more casual because we were able to just kind of walk around, take pictures, and take it all in.  We were

combined with the CIEE internship students, so we got to meet and talk with them too.  It was SOO hot though, which was ridiculous, but I still think
Granada is by far one of my favorite places in Spain!  Even the rest of the town was great because it was definitely a city, but yet it was very quaint and had little stores and restaurants all over.  Plus, it just seemed more peaceful, with rivers, and just a good atmosphere.  After the long (almost 3 hour) tour, we headed back to the hotel and swam for a little and then got ready for the evening.
      I decided I wanted to try to spend some time with some other students, so I want with my two roommates and some others to go get some tapas.  Apparently in Granada, if you buy a drink you get a free tapa to share at the table, so it was a very different idea than what we are used to, but it was really cool and so delicious!  We got watermelon mojitos and then they brought us big platters of food to share: first jamon and cheese bagel sandwiches, fries, and pasta salad.  The second one was basically scalloped potatoes and little tuna sandwiches.  We had to split our tables too because we had so many people, so I got to sit with Olivia, Megan, Kevin, and Yaniv.  Both the boys are new, so it was great to have the

opportunity to get to know them better.  Yaniv was born and lived 10 years in Israel, so he's got some cool experiences.  We just were talking, then started playing Never Have I Ever, and that led to what it usually does: people being shocked at things I haven't/don't do.  It was so crazy cool though how the Lord was working because basically after a few questions it just turned into a full hour of talking about my faith.  None of them are believers, and some seemed pretty opposed, but all VERY interested.  We talked about pretty much everything from abortion to homosexuality to how people hear about Christ on deserted islands to who goes to Heaven/Hell to why I do
or don't do certain things, and why most of them don't even interest me.  I tried to explain that God has given me life and my sole purpose is to glorify Him, and only those who have personal relationships with Christ, accept Him as Savior, believe He died and rose again to forgive us will go to Heaven.  It was an intense conversation, and I hope that I explained it in the most Christlike way and they did not feel judged, but ultimately I walked away praising God because I could not believe the opportunity that he just placed right into my lap.  No matter what they think of me, I felt that I did what the Lord commands, and He walked me through each step giving me verses.  He has just given me such a confidence that I want people to think I am crazy for Him!!!  I love how God works in us to give us His boldness.
      Afterwards, Ben, Olivia and I decided to go get the "best" ice cream in Granada, and got tarta de chocolate, which was basically a piece of chocolate ice cream cake in a cone--so good!  Then the three of us tried to walk to a discoteca that our friends from Sevilla had reccommended and said was free if you said their company name.  Well after walking a while and going to what we thought was slightly the boondocks, we found the club.  Right as we were about to get in, I see and hear my friend Connor yelling, "Megan!!!" over the balcony.  Apparently the club was charging 8 euros to get in, so they want next door and the lady who lived in the house asked them if they just wanted to hang out on her roof.  So they want up and were hanging out.  By the end, we had like 15-20 CIEE students up there, and it was really cool because we could see the whole Alhambra, and could hear the music from the club right above us.  We hung out there for a little while, and then Olivia and I took a taxi back home and called it a night.  I LOVE Granada!!!!