July 29th, 2011

Mis Cumpleaños!! It does not feel like my birthday today – it is very weird not waking up and being with my family. However, this is probably the only time I will spend my birthday in a foreign country so there is nothing to complain about!!

Today was our last day of Cursos Internacionales, so we said our goodbyes to Miriam and Dunia. In Andy’s class we discussed our final projects – they are going to be so sad! For mine, I am making a movie/slideshow about our time here in Salamanca. I cannot believe how time has flown by. It is incredible. I am excited to go home to see my family and friends (and to eat healthy meals again haha) but I also will be very sad to leave. I have gotten very comfortable living here. I know my way around and the people that I see everyday. I have found my niche in this new culture and I have a feeling when I return to the States I am going to experience culture shock again.

Anyways, back to my birthday festivities!! After my siesta, Jenna and I went for a run before my birthday dinner. Of course I took everybody to Devinos for Huevos Rotos con Ferinato!! My favorite!! We all had a blast and enjoyed a ton of food. There were fifteen of us and our bill was under 50 euros! I also am definitely going to miss the cheap food here.

After dinner we went to the plaza for frozen yogurt. At this heladeria they had every topping you could ever imagine – and of course I had them all. My favorite topping was the pistachio glaze. From here we all went out to Camelot. This has to be my favorite night out in Spain thus far… We all got up on the stage and danced the night away. But when the YMCA came on, everything changed. I literally felt like we were performing on stage and everyone was cheering us on. The entire club was our audience and they were taking pictures and doing the dance with us. It was a blast!!! Probably the closest I will ever be to a rock star.

I feel so lucky and blessed for the awesome time I am having here.

Mucha amor,

Katherina

July 28th, 2011

We have a new goal to achieve in Salamanca – eat at the Crossainteria. Apparently they are little warm, gooey, flakey pieces of heaven. And I haven’t been able to stop thinking about them. Apparently Mark and Sarah get one twice a day! I believe we are going every day we possible can next week because we don’t have class until 11:00 so I will update you on the savory sweets then.

So today was my birthday night! I am not really sure how it works when I am 6 hours ahead of my real birthday but I just see it as 6 extra hours of birthday celebrations! Sydney, Jenna and I met in the plaza and shared a pitcher of sangria at my favorite outdoor café. It was so fun just to sit and laugh with them. I feel so lucky to have had such a great group of kids on this trip. I have made so many best friends. They all are such a blast, but even more importantly everyone is very respecting of everyone else.

From there, well, lets just say we went to several more bars, ended up at Cubic to dance, and I got to bed by 4:00 a.m. Successful night.

Ciao!

Katherina

July 27th, 2011

You will be happy to know that I woke up in time for class today! Unfortunately not early enough to grab my café Americano from my amigo at Pan Cake though… No pasa nada. Oh good news! Choni bought new fruit! We now have pears and peaches! I tasted a pear last night and it was super soft unfortunately. However, I have been averaging about three peaches a day, they are so good!

Now that exams are over classes are super tough to get through. Miriam has been showing movies on Picasso and I think its safe to say more than half hour class slept through it.

At night I decided to just relax so Mena, Allie and I went to Café y Té to skype and get some work done. I headed home early so I could watch the movie I rented – Tangled! It was SO good! I highly recommend it, another Disney masterpiece.

Buenas noches!

Katherina

July 26th, 2011

Exams are done!!! However, they were completely different than I expected… Art History was a breeze (I already found out that I got an A) and Culture had quite a few curve balls. I still think I did alright on Culture I just know for sure I had no clue on some of the matching ones where we had to pair the province with their specialty food.

After class I came home for lunch and then went running with Jenna. At 8:00 our Foodie Practicum met for tapas!! This time tapas was right down the street from my house! We were divided into three teams and we were given 50 euros. Each team had to go to three tapas restaurants and record what was their favorite tapa/tapa bar. On my team we had Aaron, Linda, Sarah M. and Carla! Andy also may be considered an honorary member of our team because he ate at nearly every bar with us. Aaron was in charge of making a blog post, Sarah was in charge of the money, and the rest of us were supposed to take turns being the waitresses and ordering at every place.

At the first restaurant we stopped at I had salpicon mariscos (one of my favorite tapas), Sara had potatoe salad in pork rinds, and Linda had patatas bravas. Aaron tasted his favorite tapa so far in Spain – mushrooms and olives I think?? It was all mixed up in a type of gravy, very delicious. Carla, being the native Spaniard (from Extremadura to be exact), knew exactly what to order. She had the morcilla (blood sausage) and it was unbelievable. I know it sounds scary but it is so tender and scrumptious. Here I also had my first Caña con limon! It is beer from the tap mixed with fanta limon – so refreshing.

At the second restaurant Andy joined us. At this restaurant I was the waitress and ordered everybody’s drinks and tapas. I had the artichokes, Carla and Aaron had the tigres (croquetas with mussels), Linda had stuffed pepper and Sarah had mussels. Fabulosa.

At the third restaurant, Devinos, I am thrilled to announce that I tasted my favorite food in Spain thus far! It blew me out of the water people. The horrible part is that it is only served in Salamanca!!! It is called huevos rotos con ferinato (broken eggs with ferinato). Ferinato is this terrific meat from pigs blended with bread. It is then reformed into a sausage and sliced up. The meat is so soft and tender, not tough at all. They combine this, with sliced potatoes into a frying pan filled with olive oil. Then, they top it all off with an egg over easy. I think I died and went to heaven. We ordered two! I could have stayed there all night to stuff my face, which is why on Friday everyone is returning there to celebrate my birthday and eat more ferinato!

I had such a blast tonight. It was so awesome talking to Carla and Andy and learning about them. Carla’s Camino de Santiago that she took with her GIEU students is now on my bucket list. I also have Carla to thank for introducing me to ferinato – she says she always eats this on her last night in Spain before she heads back to the United States.

After Tapas we all went out for MaryCarina’s birthday! It is always bound to be a great night when everyone goes out. As it happens, we had so much fun we didn’t come home until 3:30… Nearly all of level B was out this late and honestly I am really looking forward to seeing everyone in class tomorrow looking like death haha.

Me encanta Salamanca!!

Katherina

July 25th, 2011

Happy Camino de Santiago! There are not a ton of festivities in Salamanca today, I guess the huge fiesta is up in Santiago, but during our run Sydney, Jenna and I saw some action in the Plaza. A fire truck was hoisting up a flag and weather vane of a black toro and a lot of the citizens were taking pictures and videotaping. A band of trumpets was playing and fire works were going off. Too our disappointment the fireworks weren’t actually colorful, and it was broad day light so they really were just loud booms, but it still reminded us of a sort of Fourth of July.

After lunch was study time. Our entire class met up at Café & Té and pushed through a four-hour study session for art history and culture. Slightly painful, but we had a lot of good laughs over the lunatic Salvador Dalí, not to mention all of the inside-jokes left over from the weekend (como un amante… jajaja).

I went home for dinner and then spent the rest of the night skyping my mom and studying for my exams.

Alright, gotta get some rest for my tests tomorrow! Wish me suerte!

Katherina

July 24th, 2011

Ahh Domingos en España – el mejor. (Ahh Sundays in Spain – the best). I think I slept in the latest today I have this whole trip. I could have slept later too but at 11:00 Sydney called me to go running haha. At 12:00 Sydney, Jenna and I went for a run and then afterwards I headed back for lunch. The plan for the day? Pool. What a great day to lounge and do nothing. Tomorrow is a national holiday in Spain – El Camino de Santiago – so we don’t have school! “Nothing to do, nowhere to be, a simple little kind of free” – John Mayer. I feel like I am getting really close to everybody here. I am learning so much about all the kids on our trip and everyone is such a blast.

I went home for dinner at 8:00 and then headed back to the Plaza to again sit and relax with everyone. Boy do the Spaniard know how to lead stress-free lives. Earlier we had decided at the pool that we were going to teach Jenna (the Jersey Shore native) how to play Euchre! Unfortunately we had no cards, but no worries, we made our own. Jenna lost interest pretty quickly but the rest of us had a fun time playing! Next time we are bringing real cards though… we were having some difficulties.

We ended the night with some scrumptious gelato. Ahh viva la vida en España. (That’s two song lyrics for ya in one journal entry!)

Con cariño,

Katherina

July 23rd, 2011

Today started at 6:25 a.m. (after several hits of the snooze). After breakfast I met Jenna to painfully trek the 2 miles to the bus stop. Somehow we were there early for once (usually I am the last one)! At 8:00 we departed for Segovia! We were all really excited, we knew it was going to be a great day – the bus was nearly filled with Michigan students.

Segovia is breathtaking. As soon as you drive up, the aqueduct makes you feel that you’ve stepped into a time machine. It dwarfs you and humbles you. No mortar was used to build it – they used keystones to support the arches. The Romans were geniuses. Our guide then led us to the Casa de los Picos. It is the palace of the fifteenth century and was home to the ruler of the city – Juan de la Hoz. The decided to decorate it with the curious design of diamond points. The house is located in a small plaza popularly known as the barrio de las brujas. During this time it was where the artesanos, obreros y moriscos lived. We also saw the statue of Juan Bravo, The convent of Corpus Christi, the neighborhood of the Canonjías, and of course the Catedral!

After our tour of Segovia we had a couple hours of free time before our next stop. Of course we had to go and get some of the best Cochinillo Asado (fried baby big) in Spain! The restaurant was great. It sits right below the aqueduct and has a ton of character. In Andy’s class we had seen a video of “On the Road Again” and the people had gone to this restaurant. The meat is so tender they slice it with a plate and serve it to you. And the skin! There are no words for how wonderful that fatty skin tastes…

After our lunch we took a short bus ride over to La Granja. I didn’t know we were going here, so this was a wonderful surprise. On the drive over we passed several fields filled with sunflowers. Everything was so green and covered in flowers I didn’t feel like we were in Spain anymore. Here we went to the spectacular palacio de la Granja of San Ildefonso. It has been compared to the palacio de Versalles if that says anything. Originally a summer getaway for the royal family, it is now host to a beautiful collection of tapestries, paintings, sculptures, and crystal chandeliers. My favorite part though was the gardens. I could have spent all day exploring them and taking pictures. Jordan, Katie, Addy and I all snuck into one of the fountains and waded around! The fountains and flowers go on forever, and the back of the palace is even more beautiful than the front.

We got back home to Salamanca a little after 9:00 and then we all met up in the plaza to go out. Time to bar hop. The first place we went to had an interesting drink – agua de Valencia. It is a liter of vodka, champagne and fanta. Don’t worry, Sydney and I shared a liter. Then we went somewhere where we got caramel shots (they taste like candy!) and free long Islands. Our next stop was the Chupiteria (Chupitas=shots in Spanish) and we all got the house drink! Okay listen to this – a wafer shot glass lined with chocolate, filled with coffee liquor, topped with whipped cream. It was like a dessert.

Another great day studying abroad!

Katherina

July 22nd, 2011

Ay yi yi, it is never easy to go to class after a night going out. We didn’t even stay out very late, but after a full week of class Fridays can be brutal, no matter what country you live in. After school I tried to go shopping (failed to buy anything, I’m so annoying) and headed straight home to eat and siesta for a good two hours. Apparently siesta naps are only supposed to be about a half hour and Americans that sleep longer are considered lazy but I really am over being judged.

After siesta a again roamed the streets shoe shopping (still nothing, I’m so obnoxious) and then headed to the gym. A lot of students left today to either go to Berlin, France, or Barcelona, so all of the Segovia kids (our trip tomorrow) decided to meet up for drinks. We went to Café Erasmus and all ordered something different. White Russians, margaritas, banana beer (it sounds weird but it is SO delicious), gin and tonic, and a beer-tasting tray were all ordered. Jenna and I shared some sangria. It was really fun to just relax and enjoy trying new drinks with friends. I’m going to miss casually sitting at bars when I go back to Ann Arbor so I better live it up!

Hasta mañana!

Katherina

July 21st, 2011

The Kabcenells picked the best day to come visit me!! Okay, I will start off from the beginning. I met them in the plaza at 9:30 and took them to the food market next to the plaza. Rhonda got some great shots of all the animal guts and Jim hardly complained at all! (Jim is trying this new approach to life – viewing the glass half full rather than half empty, so far it’s going pretty well).

After the market I showed them my daily walk to class and we ran into Andy. I introduced them and he said they could come to class with me for the field trip today!! Awesome!! We had a couple hours until class so we hiked to the top of the Catedral and then rewarded ourselves with some delicious churros con chocolate. Heavenly.

Before class we had to cross some items off their checklist. Rhonda needed new white shoes (Kip apparently likes to eat white patent leather sandals), safran, olive oil, and a backpack. I am proud to say we accomplished everything except for a leather backpack…

At 12:15 we headed to class and they got the chance to meet all of my friends. Our first stop on Andy’s adventure was Salamanca’s Museum of Modern Art. Unfortunately no cameras were allowed but the exhibit was very impressive. The windows and ceilings were all stained glass, giving the entire entrance a beautiful glow. My favorite room was the one with the life drawings. The sketches were stunning and so realistic. After the museum we walked over to the gardens. Who knew Salamanca had gardens?! Apparently they were right across the street from the Kabcenell’s hotel too! We got some great group shots and we learned about a really cool Salamanca tradition. There is a well in the middle of the gardens and couples from all over come to secure a padlock with their names carved into it as a symbol of their everlasting love.

To cap off our lovely day of class, Andy of course had to take us to tapas! We returned to Bambu – one of our favorites – and all enjoyed some tasty treats. After our snack the three of us walked across the river to a restaurant with one of the best views in Salamanca. The porch is outside next to the river with the Catedrales as a backdrop.

The K’s were nice enough to drop me back off at my house and I was able to show them where I live! It was so great to see them and sad to say goodbye. I had a blast showing off Salamanca to my friends! Hopefully I will see them up north in a couple weeks!

Paz y amor,

Katherina

July 20th, 2011

After dance today the Kabcenells arrived!! At 7:30 I met them underneath the clock in the Plaza Mayor and we headed out to Van Dyck to go Tapas hopping. We started off at Don Cochinillo for the best Cochinillo Asado (fried baby pig) in Salamanca. There we also got some Croquetas de Gambas and Salpicón Mariscos. Then we went to the next place and got queso de oveja (sheep cheese) and cotillado asado (ribs). Sabrosa. Our last place we went to I finally tried the cow tongue! It was actually really good. We also ordered a tortilla with cheese and zucchini in it. I ordered a Shandy for Jim (beer with lemon) a drink I definitely need to make back in the states.

After dinner we wandered back to the plaza and sat on the terrace while we watched the nightlife. On the other side of the plaza a band was playing which was the perfect soundtrack for the evening. It was so nice to be with my “pseudo parents” as Jim calls it. The last time I was in Europe with them was when I was thirteen! It was great to catch up and hear about their trip so far and tell them about my time here in Salamanca.

We walked back to see their hotel and on the way Jim treated us to some decadent gelato. I got yogurt with fruit and they got cheese with berries and lemon. Their hotel was so beautiful! It is right by the river and from their room they can see the tops of the Catedrals. They also had some of that acorn liquor in their room that we had some sips of… The United States really needs to get some of that stuff – it tastes like caramel.

I just got home and am meeting them tomorrow at 9:30 to go to the market! Gotta go to bed!

Buenas noches!

Katherina

July 19th, 2011

Let’s see… what did I do today… For breakfast I made myself some oatmeal with apple (have I mentioned that yet? I have been making my own breakfast since she isn’t here in the morning, the crackers with nutella just wasn’t cutting it).

Class was good, we have been learning about Dali in my art history class and about all of the Spanish holidays in my culture class. I really love the classes I get to take here. I feel like all of them are helping me become a little more Spanish and learn how to live here. A huge part of any culture is their customs and traditions, as well as their history, and I feel like I am just beginning to scratch the surface of these. Andy’s class is a ton of help for surviving study abroad. He puts together great activities for us to help us remember our time here and take notice of things we might have looked over. Our homework assignment for tonight is to keep an hourly account of every activity we do during the day and where it takes place, as well as what people we interact with.

After class I went home for lunch and we had a delicious been and noodle soup with sautéed zucchini. After a little siesta I went running and headed to Flamenco class! Only Charlotte, Allie and I were there today, but we learned the rest of the dance! I need to take pictures of it before it is over, but in case I don’t she took some today and said she was going to post them on facebook haha. I really hope I remember all the steps. When I got home from class I showed my Señora the dance and after I finished she said: “obviously it is prettier with the music.” So that says a lot about how good I am!

For dinner we had croquetas and empanadas – deliciosas. I went to the café to talk to my parents and call the Kabcenells about our plans for tomorrow! I cannot wait to see them! I need to plan out an itinerary for us. There is so much to see in so little time!

At about 11:30 a bunch of us all met in the Plaza Mayor to go out. Woowee it was a fun night. We started off at Irish Rover… I had one too many sangrias… and then we headed over to dance at Cubic. The BEST part of the night was going to Leonardo’s after – the only place to get drunk food in Salamanca. I didn’t have any money with me but Allie got a delicious bocadillo that she was nice enough to share with me. It was a baguette with bacon, ham, tomato and mayonnaise on it – all melted together. A whole lot better than the usual dry baguettes with slices of ham on them. Good lord. It was so scrumptious, and when you took a bite of it all the mayonnaise would get all over your hands and face. But it was definitely worth it.

I got home at about 3:30 but still managed to fit in about 6 hours of sleep, so not so bad.

Hasta mañana!

Katherina

July 18th, 2011

Home sweet home in Salamanca! It feels good to be back. Had a typical day today. Grabbed a peach on my way to class today from my friends in the fruteria next door and walked the scenic 1.5 miles to school. After class I headed home for lunch and a siesta before going for a long run by the river. I met up with my friends at dance class and finally think I have most of it memorized! I have a ton of work to catch up on tonight, and a ton of pictures to go through from Portugal! (I took three hundred… woops). On my way to go to the wifi café right now!

Besos y abrazos!

Katherina

July 17th, 2011

Today we woke up, chowed down during the breakfast buffet, and hopped on the bus at 8:00 to head home. On the way we stopped by an unbelievable medieval town and gothic catedral. I wish we could stay in Portugal longer! There are so many awesome cities!

The bus ride was a good 6 hours home so when I got home I just relaxed and watched the Bachelorette before I passed out.

Ta luego!

Katherina

P.S. My roommate Joshua had a wild weekend with that Russian girl. He is covered in hickeys! Hahah my señora and I were crying we were laughing so hard. And apparently on Saturday he hooked up with two French girls as well. And get this – the French girls are best friends and don’t know he hooked up with both of them. Whatta playa. The best part is that he weighs as much as me and has braces. Oh and the Russian girl is at least 6 foot. Alright that’s all folks.

July 16th, 2011

July 16^th, 2011

Desayuno. (Breakfast). Finally a real breakfast! We loaded up on oatmeal, scrambled eggs, fruit, and croissants before heading out today.

Well this shouldn’t be surprising to me, but nobody speaks Spanish here. I keep finding myself trying to speak Spanish and everyone continues to give me ridiculous looks that seem to say “I know you aren’t Spanish because of your ugly American accent, and I don’t speak Spanish anyways so what are you trying to do you stupid American?”

Moving on… So today we went to some beautiful Plazas in Lisboa and then at noon we headed to Cacais – the most beautiful town I have ever seen! To give you an idea, I took more than one hundred pictures here. It is going to take me a while to sort through those. The cliffs and bays filled with fishing boats were the perfect backdrop for the colorful buildings and flowers. It was a perfect day and everyone was having a great time. The girls and I hung out at the beach for hours. I’m sorry; I mean we hung out at the nude beach for hours. And I am proud to say the three of us went topless! I only lasted a couple minutes because then I over heard some girls say: “Are those girls from our program? Is this even a topless beach?” Oh well. People can judge if they want. Probably the only time in my life that will ever happen!

After the beach we roamed around and had yet again a delicious seafood dinner. I had a calamari and shrimp kebob. Perfecto. Probably the BEST part of the night was after when we went to a gelateria on our way to the metro. The most adorable Portuguese man in a fedora hat was behind the counter and he let us try every flavor! He said we were having an ice cream party! When we asked for his picture he went nuts, ran around the counter, and immediately started throwing out dozens of poses. When he asked if we wanted hat or no hat, we obviously answered hat – that was the best part about him! He wanted to put the giant ice cream statue on his head but he said it was too dirty.

The way home was chilly so the three of us wrapped our hotel towels around us and got plenty of stares haha. When we got back to the hotel we had another fun girls night and enjoyed the luxury of having wifi. I chatted with my Spanish friend Pachi and he wants to take me rock climbing!! Yikes! I’ll let you know if we go!

Ciao!

Katherina

July 15th, 2011

We’re in Lisbon Babaaayyy!!!!

Today was awesome. It started off with a 6 hour bus ride to Lisbon (and a 6 hour sleep that was much needed). When we arrived Emily and Sydney and I relaxed in our rooms for a couple of hours before we headed out for the tour. It is sooo nice to be at a hotel. We can shower as long and as often as we want, we can hang out with our friends in our rooms, and we have wifi!! Fabuloso.

As for the tour, I will have to put up pictures because there are no words to describe this place. It is breathtaking. It is so much different from Spain. Lisbon sits on the southeastern coast of Portugal and no matter where you are in the city the view is beautiful. Although I have never been to San Francisco, it reminds me of it. It is very hilly with bright yellow cable cars running up and down the streets. An enormous bridge stretches across to the other side of the bay and every building or apartment adds a different pop of turquoise or pink to the scenery. The cobble stone streets are charming as well. We passed an artist on the street selling watercolor paintings and I took a ton of pictures of them so hopefully I can recreate them when I get home!

For dinner, Sydney, Emily and I went to a restaurant on the main strip and sat outside. I ordered the Bacalao (codfish). Hands down the best fist I have ever had. Literally was caught earlier that day. We then took the subway back to our hotel where we finally got to have a girls’ night! Since we all live in separate houses in Salamanca we can never really just hang out and relax unless we are sitting in the plaza. I am so glad I am here in Portugal with these girls.

Hasta mañana!

Katherina

July 14th, 2011

Busy busy busy day today. Woke up, took my test (ehh I will let you know how it went when I get the grade), went biking, had dance class, went running with Jenna, went wine shopping with Jenna, packed for Portugal, and now I am here writing this as I wait to go out.

Yes, we are going out. And we are leaving at 7 a.m. to go to Portugal. Proobbably not the best idea but when in Spain right?! Not sure if I will get more than 3 hours of sleep tonight, but I plan on taking some Dramamine to knock me out on the 6 hour bus ride tomorrow. I just hope I wake up in time.

Please don’t judge me for those of you adults reading this.

Ciao!

July 13th, 2011

Wait. Espera. Hold the phone. We have to study on Study Abroad? How am I supposed to study when I’m living in a city that (somehow) runs on laziness and partying?? The biggest distraction in the world is literally just outside the door.

However, we being the Michigan students that we are, obviously studied for our Art History exam. We were making study guides, quizzing each other, and refilling our coffees religiously. We even attempted to make one of the cafes in the Plaza into the Ugli by pushing tables together. Of course, that is not acceptable in Spain like it is at Starbucks (which doesn’t exist in Europe by the way!?) and we consequently were yelled at by the waiters. Great.

What did we do? We went to McDonalds. Yes, I studied for my Art History exam with a statue of Ronald McDonald creepily watching me. It has free wifi though and for some reason it feels like a magic wardrobe I can walk into and pretend I am in America. I don’t pay for food when I use the bathroom or use the Internet. We just walk up stairs and feel at home for a little while. Although I don’t even remember the last time I was in a McDonalds in the United States so to say I feel at home is a bit of a stretch… at least the Spanish rules don’t seem as strict.

As much as I love Salamanca, I really miss being able to use Internet and go pee with out having to pay for something. And when I do pay for something and use the restroom it would be nice if just once there was some toilet paper in there. GAHHHH.

Okay got that out of my system. I really do love it here.

Wish me luck on my test!

Katherina

July 12th, 2011

Today something big happened… IT RAINED! I’m not sure if it counts if it rains during siesta though. It is kind of like the old saying – “if a tree falls down in the woods and nobody is there to hear it, does it make a sound”? With the rain came a very dramatic cold front. It got down to 49 degrees last night. Which did not exactly make for the best “going out” weather. Yet of course we had to because I have an exam on Thursday and I am waking up early to go to Portugal on Friday. Let’s just say I probably should have stayed in watched the Bachelorette… I don’t do well in cold weather.

It was still fun. We danced the night away. We even practiced some of the Flamenco moves we have been learning!

I really should start taking pictures of the meals my Señora has been making me. Today for lunch we had this delicious cold, seafood salad. It had crab, potatoes, red peppers, tomatoes, and onions. It was dressed in olive oil and vinegar – fantastic. And for dinner, she made us Gazpacho! I loveeee Gazpacho. When I get back to school I can see it becoming a staple during the first hot weeks of school. Muy refrescante.

Taluego! (The slang version of Hasta Luego – I’m catching on…)

Katherina

p.s. My señora gave me a bouquet of lavender today! Que dulce!

July 11th, 2011

Another week begins in Salamanca! Jenna and I woke up bright and early today to go for a run and catch up on each other’s weekends. She had just gotten back from Portugal and gave me the lo-down on what and what not to do. Her description of the beaches there sounds like pure paradise and I can’t wait to go!

After class today I decided to finally go out and buy my first pair of Spanish shoes! Success! After two hours of roaming I finally decided on a pair. Although the exchange rate kind of sucks, all of the shoes are still really cheap compared to America (my justification for purchases).

At 6:00 our first Flamenco class started! It was SO much fun. I’ll tell ya, all that twirling with our wrists is harder than you would think – I didn’t even know I had muscles there. We probably looked pretty goofy, not really knowing what way to shake our hips, but I had a great time nonetheless. Maybe we will get good enough so we can perform in the Plaza on the weekends!

For tonight I think I’ll head down to a café to get some Internet and download the Bachelorette (guilty pleasure). Hope you all are doing well back home.

Con cariño,

Katherina

P.S. Today is the anniversary of Spain winning The World Cup!!! WOOOO!!!

July 10th, 2011

People really take their Sundays seriously around here. And when I mean seriously, I mean they stay true to “The Lord’s Day.” After about two o’clock everything closes so being the American that I am I decided to get an early start.

I woke up early while Choni was at work so I could finally wash some of my clothes. I was kind of sneaky about it too because I didn’t want her to be upset that I used her sink. I hung them all up on the line and a half hour before she got home I moved them to my room so they could finish drying. It feels so good to have clean clothes!!

Sydney and I then went for a run down to the Sunday market. Of course we didn’t bring any money, so we didn’t stay long due to the painful temptations of cheap souvenirs. I then headed to the gym and picked up some snacks from the grocery store before heading home for lunch.

The rest of the day I spent in the Plaza talking to my family, which is always a treat. After dinner I walked through the park by my house and bought the Spanish Instyle and read it on a bench while I people watched. I wish I had had my camera because the most adorable group of old ladies was sitting on the bench in front of me. They all had on babushkas and were gossiping and laughing their heads off.

The movie I had rented, Just Go With It, finally had downloaded on my computer so I got to wind down with that – a little taste of home.

Miss you all!

Katherina

July 9th, 2011

A new piece of Spanish culture was revealed to me today. Upon walking to the Plaza at 6:00 a.m. to catch my bus for Toledo, I realized something: it is more dangerous to walk around Salamanca at 6:00 in the morning than in the middle of the night. I really should not be surprised. At 6:00 the only people who are on the streets are the drunken partiers that are either still bar hopping (I passed some club on the way to the plaza and they were bumping with bouncers still at the door) or those who are stumbling back home. I even saw our friend Pachi Gomez and his gang roaming around still.

As entertained as I was by the revelation, it made me kind of home sick. Although I believe the United States should take the time to relax a little, I really love the morning people. Back home, there is no question that if you wake up early you will see people getting their coffee, reading a newspaper, or standing in line for some delicious breakfast. Here, people don’t really get started until 10:00 – and they are considered “morning people”.

All right, back to Toledo. So after a very long 2-mile hike to the bus station, we began our three-hour tour to Toledo. Wow, it was definitely worth the trip. Toledo used to be the capital of Spain way back when during the medieval times. The walled city is surrounded by a moat and the beautiful Catedrals can be seen from miles away. The city is much different from Salamanca – all of the streets are very narrow and it does not have the larger city feel Salamanca has. We went to see some artwork by El Greco (as well as his tomb) and other famous artists (I should know what we saw but I am in a café at the plaza writing this and I don’t have my map with me!!). Saturday also must be the day to get married in Spain because we saw at least three weddings. Spain is a great place to get married outside because you would never have to worry about the rain or clouds! Shout out to Sara Stencel, possible destination wedding?

We must have walked at least 13 miles yesterday because when we got back on the bus we all passed out till we came home. Looking forward to a relaxing Sunday tomorrow.

Adios amigos!

Katherina

July 7th, 2011

Quote of the day: “Tapas ‘til I drapas” – Allie Eittman.

Today was a great day. It started off fairly chilly (the fluctuations in temperature are absurd) but the walk to class warmed me up. On the way to class I had to pick up a present for my “secret person” in Andy’s class. We are playing this mafia style game where we are given a person from our class and we need to deliver them presents throughout the course. The idea is to get to know people and buy them things they like and at the end of the month we all guess who our “secret person” was. So today I thought I would go pick up a magazine for her to read because she doesn’t have Internet. I went to the newsstand and asked for a Marie Claire – simple enough, right? Well apparently there was a special edition and he handed me this huge poster board with the magazine, a beach bag, and a pair of flip-flops all for only 4 euro! I decided to give my person the flip-flops and magazine and when I got home I surprised Choni with a new beach bag. I dropped off the goods at Monolo’s desk (the cute man who collects the presents) and headed to class.

Boy did we learn a lot in culture class today! Here is a list of several things you should know if you want to be more Spanish:

-They are often tardy

-They always talk fast with many gestures

-Siestas are only taken in small cities (thank goodness Salamanca has them)

-Breakfast is nearly non-existent and dinner is very light

-Paella is traditionally eaten on Sunday with families

-Spaniards never accept compliments, they are very humble

-A celebration is not considered a celebration with out wine

-A meal is not considered a meal without bread

-When it is your birthday, you treat everybody as a thank you for the gifts

-Spaniards always fight for the bill

-Olive oil is the base of every meal

-Spaniards have the second longest life expectancy next to Japan (with zero stress, miles of walking, wine, tapas, and siestas it is obvious why)

These are just several of the ones I found most interesting. We also picked up some good advice so we don’t look like complete fools everyday – always helpful.

After class I returned home to eat lunch with my three brothers. May I just say I hope I was not so goofy at 15. These boys are impossible (aside from the Parisian one, we’re good buds J). They always are debating over the most absurd things – the one sixteen year old was trying to convince me that Jorge Luis Borges never wrote poetry when I just completed a Borges Poetry class at U of M this past semester.

Finally, once rested from my siesta, I escaped the house for a little to go on a long run with Jenna. When I returned I ran into one of the boys and as we were walking home we heard sirens coming. At first we thought nothing of it until we saw the fire truck stop right in front of our apartment! Firemen (cute firemen) dashed out and ran up the stairs leaving us shocked and nervous about our Señora. Apparently it wasn’t on our floor and Choni wasn’t even home but it caused quite the hysterics.

For dinner I went out with a bunch of the girls for Jenna’s birthday. We went tapas hopping and had a blast. We ordered to pitchers of sangria at the first place and all shared some delicious pinchos (little tastes). We then meandered to an old favorite bar where we all got another drink and some delicious cuchinillo asado (baby pig – I know it sounds terrible but it might just be the most decadent thing I have every tasted – so much for being a vegetarian...) After dinner we stumbled back to the plaza from some dessert where we met the most adorable Brazilian girls! They were all between the ages of 13 and 16 and obsessed with Justin Bieber. I wanted to take some of them home with me. They all wanted to touch our hair and they were fawning over our blue eyes. At the same time we all looked at their olive skin with the same envy. One of the girls wanted all of our names so she could friend us on facebook! Maybe if I ever go to San Paolo I’ll have a place to stay!

Another wonderful day in Salamanca,

Katherina

July 6th, 2011

Wow. Where do I begin? I might have just had one of the best nights of my life. Today began as a typical day in Salamanca – we went to class, I took a siesta, and then went to my meeting for Flamenco dancing lessons (they start next week! Eek!) I then came home to shower because everyone from the foodie practicum was supposed to meet to go have a food and wine tasting at the professors “pent house” on the other side of campus.

It was amazing. They live on the fifth floor of an apartment building and have a huge terrace with a view of the Catedrals. The temperature was perfect and there was not a cloud in the sky. Andy had set out vino (wine), refrescos (soda drinks), jamón (ham), queso (cheese), salsichones (sausage), chorizo (more sausage), and atún (tuna) for us to try. (Little vocab lesson for everyone). The catch was, there were no labels on any of the food and drinks. We were given a paper and we had to compare them all listing them from best tasting to worst tasting. At the end he revealed what the most expensive items were and we discovered if they were the best tasting ones.

I have never had so much fun in my life. We all were having a blast, laughing and eating and drinking – what more can you ask for? Our professors are the best, after tonight I honestly am thinking about becoming a Spanish profesora! We learned so much about everyone tonight. One of the professors, Carla, just got back from a 39-day walk across Spain with her GIEU group. That is something I definitely would want to do. We learned that Linda has played the piano since she was 3, Sherri has the voice of Sara Barielles, Brandon is not afraid to go to the plaza with his retainer in… haha it was a ball. We listened to Spanish music and laughed till our sides felt they would fall off. We ended the night with a piece of dark chocolate covered almonds and Andy sent us all off with a bottle of wine for our Señoras! (Choni wants to drink it for my birthday!) I feel so lucky to be here with all of these people, everyone is so respectful of each other and very outgoing – we are like a family.

On my walk home I was trying to think of how I could describe in words what tonight was like, but I don’t think I am talented enough to translate it. I know I will remember it forever.

Buenas noches,

Katherina

July 5th, 2011

First day of school! I tell ya, I don’t mind going to school at all when our campus has one of the most beautiful backdrops in the world and all of our classes are about Spanish culture. ¿Qué fabulosa, no?

My first class is History of Spanish Art. My teacher is adorable, and wore the coolest purple espadrilles today (on my to-do list is buy copious amounts of Spanish shoes). We are going to learn about Picasso, Gaudi, Valázquez, Goya and Dalí. Painting is one of my favorite hobbies and I cannot wait to delve into the history behind these masterpieces.

My second class of the day has a view of the two Catedrals from the window. We over look all of the red Spanish roofs, so it doesn’t really matter what the content is about now does it? It is a Spanish culture class taught by this darling woman named Donia. I love this class because it is helping me to learn how to be a Spaniard! For instance, being five minutes late is very typical, as is eating Paella every Sunday night (this is my kind of country).

We end every day with Andy (the best!) in our Spain Survival Guide class. We have been practicing vocabulary para nuestras casas and figuring out how to get out of potential sticky situations (examples include clogging the toilet, walking in on your señora naked, waiters not giving you change etc.) Hopefully none of these things happen to me!

I love every minute of my experience here. I can tell we all are learning to speak Spanish so quickly. I like to compare it to a parallel universe, or a video game level that I have entered. All of a sudden I now can converse with millions of more people in the world. I can learn about how they live and share their lives with them. It is something I am having difficulty getting down on paper but I am extremely thankful for my time spent here.

Besos y abrazos familia y amigos,

Katherina

4th of July, 2011

Happy Fourth of July!!! This is my first year missing out on my favorite holiday. Not only are we missing it, but also we are in a country that obviously doesn’t celebrate it. (Don’t worry, I know that one year without the fourth is a small sacrifice for six weeks in Salamanca). This morning I told my Señora all about our family festivities and as I found myself in lack of anything red to wear she lent me two red hair ties for my braids! What a darling. My friend’s Señora even made them hamburgers with slices of watermelon!!

Naturally, after we all took our placement exams and registered for our excursions, we needed to have some sort of patriotic celebration. So what did we do? Go buy boxed sangria for 80 cents of course! Everyone hiked to the river and we spent the afternoon being lazy in the sun and admiring one of the most beautiful views of the city.

Oh fun fact about the night life here. While we were sitting in the plaza and a girl from the Irish Rover (hoppin club) came over to us and was handing out passes for free drinks. When we heard her American accent we asked her how she got this job. Apparently she had studied in Salamanca the past five years and now works here. When we asked her what her typical night was she reeled off this response as if it was nothing:

"So we stay at Rover until 1:00 am and then head to this place where there are free drinks until 4:00. From there we go to Cubic and dance until 6:00 when this bar opens that we go to before we head to class."

So interpret that as you wish. Possibly a bucket list item? I don't know if my body could handle that.

Anyways...We topped the night off with some decadent gelato and red white and blue apparel. BORN IN THE USA BABY!!! Gotta represent.

More adventuras for you tomorrow!

Katherina

July 3rd, 2011

Sometimes it gets really hot here (understatement of the year). Sometimes you get lost here (understatement of the century). And sometimes you get lost when it is really hot (you get the picture).

Today started out well with a trip to the Museo de Salamanca. We absorbed some Spanish history and got the chance to see some amazing artwork. By the time we left the museum it was around 11:00 and the temperatures had begun to rise… Currently there is quite a bit of construction in Spain and of course we ran into it, taking us nearly a mile off track, and subsequently lost in a foreign country without a clue in the world.

Famished to the point of seeing mirages, we bought a baguette for 70 cents (I know, right?!) and finally found El Rastro (the local market). It was so worth it! It was so colorful and full of vibrant clothing and jewelry. I purchased an F.C. Barcelona jersey that I can’t wait to rock when we play pick up soccer back home.

So when in Spain, do as the Spaniards, right? (It’s not the romans if you were wondering). Awesome. Perfect excuse to buy clothes and try to fit in. And if you want to fit in, buy harem pants a.k.a. Aladdin pants. SUCCESS! They are the most comfortable pantalones en el mundo, gente. I am currently wearing them right now as I am writing this. Bringing the trend to the U.S. get ready.

After the market I indulged in a 2 hour siesta *yawns * before heading out for a great run with Jenna. The bike paths here are awesome and we went for six hours along the river as we chatted about our days here.

Tomorrow is an early day so I am going to go watch the Bachelorette (I just downloaded it!!) while I sit in bed. Miss you all.

Besitos y Abrazos,

Katherina

July 2nd, 2011

Today started out with a long run with Jenna through the farm fields of Salamanca. Unfortunately, due to our excessive fun we had last night we didn’t get out early enough to beat the heat. This land is a desert and that’s all there is to it. Last night it had sprinkled a bit before going out and we all feared it would rain on us. When I asked my Señora about it she laughed hysterically – according to her it doesn’t rain here, ever. “The rain in Spain stays mainly in the plain” is not just a cute rhyme people.

After our steamy jog we met up with the girls to take some paddleboats out onto the river. Honestly no matter what you do here it is awesome because from nearly everywhere there is a view of the Catedral. Pedaling the boats really worked up an appetite and we relaxed at an outdoor bar beside the river and ordered some ensaladas mixtas. This is my favorite meal in Spain so far – lights and fresh. It contains lettuce, tuna, eggs, white asparagus, olives, onions, and tomatoes with a delicious olive oil dressing. Fun fact: Spain is the mecca of olive production. Italian olive oil? Made from Spanish olives. Go figure.

After lunch I went to McDonalds of all places (I don’t even go there in the States!) with some friends who were craving cheap ice cream and I was able to use the wifi. After a while we all headed back to dinner and we had the delicious vegetable salsa again. I asked Choni and she said that on Monday she will teach me how to make it!! I can’t wait to bring this recipe back home. For our Foodie practicum one of our assignments is to cook a meal for our family, I’ll have to whip up something good for her that’s hopefully par with her delicious cooking.

After dinner I finally got a chance to skype my family! It was so good to see their faces. At 10:30 I then left to meet people at the plaza for another magical night at the Jazz concert. We all ended up heading in early afterwards because tomorrow we plan on going to the market and some museums because we don’t have many weekends in Salamanca.

Hasta mañana!

Katherina

July 1st, 2011

If shopping in America makes you stress out, then being here would literally have you crawling in a corner and crying. The dollar is worth absolutely nothing here. Every euro is equivalent to about one dollar and forty cents. Thankfully, we are here during the month of repajos (sales)! Apparently twice a year, in January and July, Spanish stores mark everything down in order to help boost the economy. So now everything is about the regular price of things in America. Needless to say, we all celebrated the first week of classes this afternoon by shopping. (Don’t worry mom I only bought one dress for 19 euros).

After dinner we all went to the plaza to meet and go to a jazz concert. It was one of the most romantic scenes ever. The concert was in a church park and everyone was relaxing on the lawn enjoying the tunes. The most amazing part though was the Catedral in the background all lit up in the night sky. Breathtaking.

From there we ventured out to the bars where we met up with Allie’s local friend Pachi. And he definitely showed us a good time. We danced the night away until 4 am and when we left the locals called us “bebes” for leaving so early. They promised us one night soon we will see the sunrise in Salamanca. How in the world do they live like this? I’ll let you know soon.

Hasta luego,

Katherina

June 30th, 2011

Today began with the most amazing discovery! Jenna and I went on a run and found an outdoor gym that is basically a play scape for adults. I plan on returning to take pictures soon. I have never seen anything like it. There were rows of ellipticals and leg presses where you simply use your own weight as resistance. There were monkey bars and arm ergometers as well. To me it looked like a physical therapy facility! Apparently Pedro told us they are very common in Spain and are mostly for older people haha but the arm exercises and pull up bars were a great workout. (Good idea for a senior thesis on Physical Therapy eh???)

It is a good thing we ran today because I feel like all I have done is eat (although the ten miles we walk everyday hopefully cancels that out). In class we learned all about the different types of cheeses and were given some of the best cheeses in the world to taste while we watched “No Reservations.” We were then all treated to Tapas at a local bar that is upstairs in the Plaza Mayor where I enjoyed some delicious sangria and croquetas. Once I got home I then easily polished off some meat pasta before heading out to town again to watch a bull fight demonstration!

What an experience. None of us expected what happened at the demonstration. We were taken to an assisted living home where we sat in a circle with some senior citizens and waited to learn about this grand tradition. As a pleasant surprise, one of the most beautiful Spanish boys we have ever seen was the instructor. I don’t think a single one of us actually heard what he was saying because we were too busy looking at his butt in those slim jeans they wear. Without embarrassment we all lined up for pictures with him after the show.

For dinner Ben and I decided to go out to dinner and try something new. He had been craving pizza all week and I really have been craving vegetables. We had a blast. I learned so much about him and France. It definitely was a conversation I will never forget. After dinner we wandered back to the plaza where we spent time with his friends again and simply repeated last nights festivities. I’m saving my energy for all of the fiestas this weekend!!

Buenas noches,

Katherina