Real Alcazar

Saturday January 26, 2008

Today we met up with our classmates at Real Alcazar, where the Spanish royal family used to live, and where they still do on occasion. We got in free with our student I.D.’s which was nice. The building was really cool but the part that impressed me the most was they numerous gardens that they had all within the royal walls. There were mazes, fountains, benches, palm trees, flowers, you name it and they had it. I took about 80 pictures, so needless to say it was a gorgeous place. I definitely plan on going back and taking advantage of the student price. After going through the Real Alcazar Allison and I headed home, looked at a few local artists drawings and paintings and stopped at a small bakery and had pastries on the way home. We came home to find out that Sam had made homemade salsa with all fresh ingredients for later in the evening, score! I’m glad that she likes cooking and that our host mom and sister are good at cooking because I for one am no Rachel Ray. After lunch we all took a quick siesta and then woke up to go shopping for a bit. I haven’t actually bought anything here yet that hasn’t been food or a necessity such as shampoo (and the occasional Coke). The sales are going to be ending soon so we thought we’d look around again and try and take advantage of the rebates. I was looking for a coat, jeans and something for my sister. I bought some cute skinny legged jeans, which all of the girls wear here, for pretty cheap. The coat search was unsuccessful and for Molly I found nothing. I think that I’m just too picky. There are lots of things that I’d like to buy but they either don’t fit or they are too expensive. Shopping here is just pretty depressing all together because I fell awkward and huge compared to all of the gorgeous Spanish girls. Not to mention that I stick out because of the blonde hair. Half of the time I don’t know if they stare because I’m blonde or just because they think I’m awkward looking. We came home and listened to some Dane Cook (a hilarious comedian) before dinner because Allison had never indulged and Sam and I thought that she was long overdue. Dinner was good as usual and for some reason I couldn’t stop eating. I had a bowl of soup, 2 pieces of pizza, oranges and some of Sam’s homemade salsa. Interesting combination, I know. After dinner Sam hopped in bed but Allison and I met up with five other girls from class at Republica to have a glass of wine and to talk for a bit. After about an hour and a half Allison and I decided to head home, while the others continued on their way. It was all in all a pretty low-key day and night. I think I am becoming more accustomed to living here. I feel like it has already been months. Today I was even asked by two sets of people (Spaniards) for directions, which was exciting and hopefully I did them justice. Tomorrow is a homework and family day so I should be off to bed, buenas noches!