Picnic in the Park

Hola mis amigos!

Today was another lovely day in España.  I had a relaxed breakfast this morning and then met Victoria at noon to go downtown.  We took the metro to Sol (the main plaza where most of my “Madrid” pictures are taken) and from there, we located the hotel where Dad, Maggie, and Michael will stay next week.  Seems to be on a quiet road a bit away from the main plaza, so it should be great!  After that, we continued downtown towards the Prado.  On our way, we passed a little band of about 8 or 9 guys playing, and they were good!  I could’ve listened to them play for a long time, but we had places to be and people to see!  We wandered around the Prado area and found the Botanical Gardens.  It costs 1,25   for students to get in though, so we decided to save that for another day.  Finally, we located Parque del Buen Retiro (or Retiro Park).  It is such a big park and very pretty, but I’m sure it’s even more gorgeous in spring and summer when everything is alive and blooming.  After a lot of walking, we found the boating lake and a huge statue.  I wish I could give more information about this, but I’ll have to do some research and get back to you all.  Anyway, we basked in the sunshine for a bit, then left the park to get some food.  We meandered until we found a convenience store, where we bought fresh bread, some cheese, chocolate chip cookies, and lemonade.  We then brought our treasures back to the park and had a little picnic.  It was so nice to be outside, by the water, and in the sun on such a glorious day.  Once our friends were finished with class, they met us in the park and we hung out in a grassy area near the lake.  Just like true Madrileños!  :)

Around 5:30, we hopped back on the metro to go home.  I stopped by the apartment quickly to grab my computer, and then Victoria, Megan, and I went to Victoria’s house for dinner and a movie night.  That was my first visit to Victoria’s apartment, and it is very nice.  Her señora, Gloria, is super sweet too!  She is a vegan, so there are no meat or animal products in the house.  I wasn’t sure what to expect for dinner, but I’m usually willing to try anything once!  Gloria made risotto with imitation lobster.  It was actually really good!  I cleared my plate.  And for dessert, we had papaya.  Yum.  After dinner, we decided on the classic She’s the Man for our movie night.  Lots of laughing and fun.  I am so glad to be forming such wonderful friendships here.  I was a little worried before coming to Spain that I would feel lonely and out of place, but that hasn’t happened at all.  Granted, I do miss everyone from home, but I am enjoying getting to know my new friends and strengthening these relationships!

Well, that’s all folks.  Good night and God bless.

Elizabeth