"Europa es Loca" --- ("Europe is crazy")

Wow... Where to begin...

I guess I will start with yesterday. FIrst off, I just want to make it known that international travelling is pretty RIDICULOUSLY slow! First stop was London and I must say sh** was hitting the fan there! Megan had problems going through security and was searched because she brought a HUMUNGO tub of peanut butter. But, we met our first friend who was the security man, he definitely knew how to woo the ladies with his accent. But, getting back the the chaos happening outside of the airport, It is as if they have never seen snow before! Megan and I were stuck IN the airplane for about a solid 3 hours while they de-iced the airplane. Meanwhile, the nice London bloke next to us was saying "I think that the airplane will be able to handle the snow, yes?" Let's just say that made me feel extremely comfortable about taking off during London's blizzard. Finally we took off to find out that we had to sprint off of the plane to go and make our connecting flight in Barcelona. Then we realized that while we are switching flights that we are also switching airlines which means our bags will most likely be lost (said the Barcelona ticket check-in man). Of to a great start in Europe! Megan and I, being the traditional "Americans" we are, then sprint through the airport as the Spaniards are walking slower than Grandma Jo for God sake!

We began searching up and down for our bags and miss our other flight due to the snow in London. We then had to hang out in the airport for another 5 hours while Megan slept the entire time I had to watch for our bags like a hawk! Although, I must say that I blend in with the slower, lazier style of the Spanish community here. So mom, as much as you say that I am pokey, it is now accepted and I feel at home! Hahaha.

So on with my long story... After we were stuck in Barcelona we finally arrive in Sevilla and had to find our bags! We did, on our own, and then found the Platteville woman waiting with a sign for us (thank God). We hopped in our 2 taxis and were on our way. Of course, my taxi driver did not speak a LICK of English but I surprised him with my Spanish he said. Meanwhile Megan, in the other taxi, tried to chat his ear off and he actually charged her more, maybe for her poor Spanish we think?

Then we met the senora, who tried to help carry the "maleta pequena" (small bag) and nearly flipped over the railing because it was so heavy! Hahaha. All I can say is this is the LAST time that I will pack heavy. I am now rethinking my packing choices as I can barely type from how sore my arms are today. 2-3 flights of marble stairs later, we were in her small little home. Very small, but very cute. The washer, dryer, sink, fridge, etc. was all together in the kitchen. She has a cute dog named Maya who is a little white snowball looking creature. She is a widow, has two sons and a grandchild. She is a lovely woman named Senora Aurora Martinez Raez. She was very excited to meet us, even though conversation is going to be quite difficult for a while. I tried to be the translator, and can honestly say I believe I succeeded as much as I could. She brought us up to our room and it is very simple. We have our own bathroom, two beds, closet, dresser, entire bookshelf, and then a walk out balcony that we can "get our tan on" as she said. Beautiful, yet quaint little town home.

As for today, I woke up 8:00 our time (1:00 yours). Showered and Senora Aurora made us jelly toast and hot chocolate for breakfast. After, she gave us a map and told us to go and find our institute! Megan and I were on our way... which way you ask? We had NO IDEA. So we were lost for most of the morning and arrived at the Institute 20 minutes late for our meeting. Whoops! But, I can honestly say we weren't near as embarrassing as the three sweaty girls who sprinted in late, at least we looked good doing it! :)

As for now, we have the day off so Megan and I are going to explore. Go back home for lunch, but then explore la ciudad de Seville (the city of Sevilla). I miss you all dearly and will unfortunately not be able to update this blog as much as I was hoping. We have no internet near home and no cell service. What will Pauline do when she gets here!? It is the question that remains a mystery.

I miss you all and love you all dearly! I look forward to sharing my trip and stories with you all!

Love your Sevillana,
Laurena

Phrase of the day: "¡Usted no sabe hasta que usted agarra un mapa y vaya!" --- Senora Aurora (You don't know until you grab a map and go