The Bright Side

Always look on the bright side of life

I've been in a funk. Don't get me wrong, I am still enjoying my time in Spain, but I find myself grumbling about work, about the weather, about the slightest inconvenciences (You mean I have to work a full four days instead of three? Ugh). I think this six-month winter is the culprit. I enjoy the cold and the change in temperature, but it's been gloomy since October. It rained constantly during the month of March, and I'm ready for sunny skies. This time two years ago I was sporting light sweaters and spending my free time in the park. Now, I'm still bundled under layers of wool while I look out my window and the ceaseless downpour. Maybe I should build an ark.

Whoops, there I go complaining in a post that supposed to be positive. Lately, I've been trying to combat my sour mood by reminding myself that good things are coming.

The Weather
I've admittedly become obsessed with the weather forecast as of late. I'm constantly hunting for the promise of sunny skies. I am ready for spring. Spain is a different country when the weather warms up. The winter hibernation ends. People flock to terraces to drink beer in the warm afternoon. Parks are filled with bikes, children playing, picnics, and overly-affectionate couples. I look around and everything is turning green. Flowers are blooming in the overgrown grass. I am finally starting to shed my winter coat, and this weekend promises sunshine and warm air. When the weather is nice, I can stroll around the city without worrying about ducking into some bar for shelter. Not to mention, my tiny apartment has a disproportionatly large terrace which is ideal for hanging out and enjoying a glass of wine. Fellow auxiliares, be prepared for an invite.

More of this, please

Travel

Ok, so I haven't actually got any big trips planned, and with the rising airline prices and lack of summer employment, it looks like I won't be going very far this year. BUT, I do have some pending trips up my sleeve. Álvaro and I bought a Groupon for a hotel and wine-tasting in La Rioja (Spain's "wine country"), and all that's left is to book the hotel. I'm really looking forward to exploring more of this country.

Also, in June I'll be making a second trip to Barcelona. After such a good experience with the high-speed trains, I realized that a day trip was actually possible. So, with my parents, we'll have a good twelve hours to explore the most interesting parts of the city. No luggage, no hotels. Just hop on the train and back.Which brings me to my next point....

My parents are visiting!!!!

Frankly, this subject could use some more exclamation points. I've actually been sitting on this piece of news since January. They'll be staying for two weeks, arrving in late May when the weather should be at its best (there I go with the weather again). Unfortunately, I'll still have to work but we'll have the afternoons and three-day weekends to spend together. My parents have never been to Europe, so I'm particularly proud that I've given them the excuse to come abroad. I can't wait to show them around. Also, they'll get to meet Álvaro's parents, which should be interesting, given that they don't speak Spanish (and his parents don't speak much English). Still, I haven't seen them since early September and I couldn't be happier.