El Limonero

Eva's First Feria

2011-05-22T11:05:00.000+02:00

This Old Piso

2011-05-19T17:15:00.000+02:00

We've been living in our piso (flat, condo, apartment or whatever-you-call-it-in-English) for about five years now, three and a half as owners, and slowly but surely we are making some improvements on this early '60s masterpiece of Spanish architecture.

Our first remodel project was the bathroom, though I don't have before pics. Bruno and his Dad removed the bidet and changed out the pedestal sink and medicine cabinet for a vanity and large mirror. This past fall we had a shower door installed, and when my parents were here my Dad changed all the hardware for us and Mom hooked us up with new towels.

The most major change to date has been the kitchen remodel, thank goodness my Dad was here to help with that! In the "old kitchen" we had no counters (literally) and very limited cabinet space. On the other wall we had a folding table and an old dresser to keep our cookware in.


Before

During: this was my kitchen sink for a few days

During: the new floor installed by Bruno, his brother and two friends

A friend of ours actually gave us all the cabinets, the fridge, and a new washing machine which were only 3 years old from IKEA, because she was remodeling her new place. Bruno very creatively adapted those cabinets to our space, and with the help of his brother and my Dad, made custom counters to fit. (The ones from our friend's kitchen wouldn't work with our layout.)

After: New cabinets, dishwasher insalled next to the sink instead of in the laundry area, and full size fridge

My Dad helped Bruno finish the other wall of the kitchen.

Sancho in the new kitchen

We had changed the enclosure to the patio back in the fall as part of the kitchen project. You can kind of see what it looked like before behind Eva and me in this picture. There was a cracked window, and the other window's frame was warped and couldn't be closed properly. The door was also rusted and didn't close properly either. We had the whole enclosure replaced with the white aluminum enclosure you can see in the back of the new kitchen pics. (The real before and afters of the patio enclosure were lost in the Great Hard Drive Crash of '10.)

Now that spring is here, we've enclosed our area of our building's common courtyard to make a little garden/patio area. It's not quite finished yet, but it's a big improvement and has also kept out the neighbors' children and dog. The jury is still out on whether we will also put up an awning.

No blog post is complete without a picture of Eva, right?

Girls Weekend

2011-05-15T22:55:00.000+02:00


Eva in front of the new Riverwalk in our neighborhood

Bruno had to work all weekend (someone's got to), so Eva and I were on our own. Somehow we managed to meet up with friends both days, see a puppet show, go to a birthday party, be in a parade, see a bluegrass concert and go to a dog festival. Not bad for two days "work"!

Saturday morning we met up with Eva's best bud Ben (and his lovely parents) at the Alameda de Hércules to see puppet theater.

Eva in the Alameda

B & E

Saturday afternoon we checked out the new riverwalk and park. We crossed the new pedestrian bridge to the larger park across the river for Eva's friend's birthday party.

Eva in the new park


The view of our neighborhood from the new bridge

Eva and Abril, her friend from swim class

Back home over the bridge

This morning, Sunday, we headed out to the parks again and joined the official "first walk" parade across the new bridge (even though it had been open yesterday, too.) There was a marching band and everything.

The official "first walk"


"I'm with the band."

Over in the big park, we happened upon a bluegrass concert, then moved on to the Festival del Perro (dog festival) where we met up with my friend Rachel, her husband Ángel, and two of their six (!) dogs. Rachel volunteers for an organization called Galgos112, which helps rescue Greyhounds and other hunting dogs abandoned and otherwise mistreated by their owners. Eva loved seeing all the dogs and especially loved petting Rachel's dog Koa.

Eva, Ángel, and Koa

Rachel and Eva


Me, Eva, and Rachel

Eva and Sancho

2011-05-13T22:01:00.006+02:00

Eva adores our kitty, Sancho. He, however, is not quite so enamored. Here are a couple of pics from January and some from the other day.

Would you mind if I ate her?

Okay, then, I'll just take a nap.

Now that she's mobile, he knows he's in for it.

She'd better keep her distance.

I'm warning you.

Sancho no contento.

Our Winter Beach Getaway

2011-05-13T21:19:00.000+02:00

We celebrated my birthday at the end of February with a trip to the beach. We stayed at Islantilla on the Atlantic coast near the Portuguese border. It wasn't really beach weather (although it had been earlier in the week), but it was great to get away. The hotel was beautiful, right on the beach, and we had an awesome mini suite room.

Eva trying out her new big girl's carseat

Being a clown on the ride there

My beautiful girl with her bear from Great Auntie Bonnie and Great Uncle Ken

De paseo on the boardwalk with Papá

Sleeping Beauty


The view from our balcony

The loves of my life

Adoración total

Your Baby Might be Spanish if...

2011-05-13T20:47:00.000+02:00

Primera Primavera

2011-05-11T18:41:00.000+02:00

Spring has sprung in Sevilla, Easter and Feria have come and gone, and I am rather far behind on blog posts! This first year of Eva's life is going by so quickly, it's hard to keep up. There are so many "firsts" and milestones. Eva is now crawling and pulling up to a stand. She loves playing Pat-a-cake with her Grandma on Skype and doing the hand motions to the Spanish song Cinco Lobitos with anyone who is willing to sing it to her. Here are a few recent photos of our family.

Eva trying watermelon for the first time

Cuddling with her Papá

Mama and Eva

Eva's First Christmas

2011-05-11T17:10:00.000+02:00

Christmas 2010, New Year's 2010-2011 and Reyes 2011

Eva in her tacatá (walker), which was her big Christmas present

Christmas morning in our PJs

Eva with her Abuela Salud


Sancho looking dapper in his Christmas sweater

Eva and the beautiful stocking sent by Grandma and Grandpa


Eva and I opening her stocking

Eva and Mommy

New Year's Eve 2010

New Year's Day 2011

Ana, Eva, & Marta 01-01-11

Día de los Reyes (Epiphany)

Americanitas Baby Boom

2011-02-11T16:10:00.000+01:00

Hoye, William, Manuela, Sarah, Stacy, Eva, Benjamin, and Jennie - Alameda de Hércules, Sevilla - 10 February 2011

We are in the midst of a baby boom here in Spain. In the past 7 months, there have been four babies born within my group of friends, and two are on their way for Spring/Summer 2011. It's so great to have friends going through the same experiences at the same time, and I really hope that our children will be friends as they grow up. It's also nice to have someone to drink wine with at lunch on a Thursday. :-)

Eva and Hippo 7 Months

2011-02-10T18:27:00.000+01:00

There is so much I still need to catch up on here, but for now, I wanted to share this picture taken of Eva and Hippo yesterday. I can't believe how much she has grown and how fast the time has gone by.

February 9, 2011 - 7 months old

Compare to these ones:

August 23, 2010 - 7 weeks old

August 12, 2010 - 5 and 1/2 weeks old

July 11, 2010 - 6 days old

Looking for Snow

2011-01-17T14:05:00.000+01:00

It doesn't snow much here in Sevilla (I think it's happened twice in the last hundred years), so every winter Sevillanos flock to Granada and the Sierra Nevada to "look for snow". I'm not sure what it is they do once the snow is found, but if it's like most activities here, it probably involves a long lunch.

Well, Bruno and his brother had been working around the clock all November, so when there was a break, they booked a trip for all of us to go to Granada for a long weekend at the beginning of December. (The long weekend of the Immaculate Conception, to be exact. Ah, Spain.)

Here are some pictures of Eva, Marta and Ana where we stopped for lunch in the Sierra Nevada National Park.

We did see some snow-capped peaks in the distance, but the day we were supposed to drive up into the mountains, the roads were closed due to unfavorable weather. Meanwhile, in Granada capital, it was about 70 degrees, but we wore our winter gear anyway. We were on a snow expedition, after all.

Marta and Ana spent a fair share of the time arguing over who would sit next to Eva. I think, in the end, Ana won out.

Here are Bruno and Eva at a restaurant where we had a nice, long lunch with friends who live nearby.

Although we didn't make it up into the mountains, it was great to just get away from home for a couple of days and relax. Maybe next year I will find out what Sevillanos do when they find the snow.

Eva's First Halloween

2011-01-17T14:01:00.000+01:00

On Eva's first Halloween, we went to visit my friends at the Maria Zambrano School where I worked during the last four school years. It was so nice to see everyone and to show off Eva, too, of course. At home, we had a photo shoot. Thanks to Frances and the Ibadlit family for the adorable duck costume, to Aunt Dot for the farm blanket which served as a great backdrop, and to Jeff, Kim, Jay and Blair for the pumpkin props!

Meeting Grandma and Grandpa

2011-01-06T22:41:00.000+01:00

Well, we are now into 2011, but I am still trying to catch up on 2010. After Blair's visit, we had a visit from my Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Ken, which turned into a bit of a debacle, as poor Ken ended up in the hospital for a week! On the bright side, we got to spend some nice time with Bonnie, and she got to know Eva, and Ken was well enough upon discharge to climb the bell tower at the Cathedral. Unfortunately, I have no pictures of their visit, because they were lost when my computer crashed. Auntie Bonnie, if you read this and have any photos to share, I'd love to see them!

My parents arrived on the first of October, our 6th wedding anniversary! We were so busy with guests, though, that we completely forgot until my parents reminded us of the special date. We met them at the airport, and Eva gave them a huge smile as soon as she saw them, which was a really special moment.

We spent two great weeks just being together, taking some nice walks around Seville, and a side trip to the beach town of Cadiz. Again, all of my photos were lost, but luckily I had transfered them all to my Mom's computer, so it's just a question of getting them off Shutterfly to share here. But as there are nearly a thousand photos, it is taking me a while to get through them! Here is a slideshow of my favorites.

Click here to view these pictures larger

Happy Holidays 2010

2010-12-22T10:08:00.000+01:00

Eva's Official Birth Announcement

2010-12-22T10:05:00.000+01:00

Auntie Blair's Visit

2010-12-22T10:00:00.000+01:00

Blair, Eva and I in the Alameda de Hércules, Sevilla

In Spanish, the term for a female first cousin is prima hermana which literally means "cousin sister", and there could really be no better way for me to describe my cousin Blair. I was so happy to have her here for a visit this past September. Blair, her boyfriend Matt, and I took Eva all around Sevilla, and Bruno joined us for a trip to the Costa del Sol at the weekend. Here are some of the pictures from their visit.

At the beach in Torremolinos

Matt and Blair at Puerto Banus. Marbella

Bruno, Eva and I at Puerto Banus, Marbella

Eva and Papá relaxing in the hotel room

Our beautiful girl

We miss you, Auntie Blair!

At Long Last...

2010-12-15T13:56:00.005+01:00

...a blog update!

Wow, it has been a while since I've posted. In the three months that the blog has been quiet, life has been pretty busy. We had a great fall with lots of visits from American family, playdates with other babies here in Sevilla, Eva's first Halloween, and a fun trip to Granada with Bruno's family. Now we are getting ready for Eva's first Christmas, Epiphany, and 6 month birthday! It's crazy how fast time goes by.

Since there is so much to catch up on, I'm going to break it into several shorter posts. For now, enjoy these pictures of Miss Eva at 5 months old.

Eva and Hippo

2010-08-24T13:38:00.000+02:00

My Aunt Dot gave me a neat idea: take a picture of the baby with the same stuffed animal or toy every month or so to see how much she grows. Since Eva loves her Hippo, it seems like the logical choice for this little project. Here are the first three of the series.

August 23, 2010 - 7 weeks old

August 12, 2010 - 5 and 1/2 weeks old

July 11, 2010 - 6 days old

Daddy's Girl

2010-08-24T09:47:00.000+02:00

I posted a few months back about buying this little T-shirt for Bruno for Father's Day. I thought it was silly of me to buy the smallest size, but when we got Eva home from the hospital, we realized as tiny as the T was, she was tinier! She's been growing so fast, though, and now it's a perfect fit. These pictures were taken a little over a week ago when she was just about to turn 6 weeks old.

Here she looks like Mommy...

... but is this a Daddy face or what?

U-S-A, U-S-A!

2010-08-24T09:10:00.002+02:00

The American and Spanish national basketball teams played each other last Sunday in an exhibition game in anticipation of the upcoming World Cup of Basketball. The Spanish are the reigning world champions (I'll bet you didn't know that!) having won four years ago. I remember watching the games with Bruno when we first moved back to Spain. Boy, have things changed since then! Well, since Eva cheered for Spain in the World Cup of Soccer, I figured in this game she should root for the USA with me. The family rivalry was on! In the end, the USA ended up winning by just one point, which I attribute to having one extra little fan on their side.

(Thanks to my friend Tiffany for the cute onesie!)

Amigas

2010-08-24T08:55:00.000+02:00

We've been having a baby boom among our friends here, both the "Americanitas" and our Spanish friends. Selu is one of Bruno's best buddies from the neighborhood, so we were really happy to learn last fall that he and his wife Inma were expecting in July, too, because we knew we'd have another family to hang out with. Their little girl Lucía was born on the 27th of July, so she and Eva are just 3 weeks apart in age. We hope they will be good friends as they grow up. Here is a picture of Eva and Lucía meeting for the first time.


Lucía, 5 days old, and Eva, 27 days old - August 1, 2010

Eva's Gym

2010-08-13T14:25:00.000+02:00

Now that Eva is almost six weeks old and more aware of her surroundings, she is having a lot of fun with her "gym". (Thank you to my friends at María Zambrano School, especially Esther and Ana!) Here are a few pictures of Eva doing her "workout".

Playing with Papi

We keep the toy arch over her changing table to keep her entertained at diaper time.

Showing off her muscles in her Winne onesie from Bruno's cousin Adriana. ¡Gracias, prima!

Hi, Mr Penguin!

Eva still loves her Hippo

My Mini-Me

When She Smiles

2010-08-09T13:43:00.000+02:00


I absolutely love her when she smiles - Nine Days

Baby Eva is starting to smile! Well, she was smiling a little here and there since the day she was born, but now she has what I call "sincere" smiles. (Bruno made fun of me for calling it that, as if I were implying that she was being insincere before.) I just mean that it's completely different when she smiles now, because it's in reaction to outside stimuli, like when we talk to her or when she is playing with her toys. It is just so cute, and it makes us so happy to see her happy. Every day we are learning more about how much parents love their children, and it makes us appreciate our own parents more than ever, too. Now I know how right my parents were when they would tell me, "You'll understand when you have your own children."

Splish Splash

2010-08-08T23:25:00.000+02:00

Eva is starting to really enjoy her bathtime, so we finally felt relaxed enough ourselves to get some pictures.

¡Cumplemeses Feliz!

2010-08-05T16:55:00.000+02:00

The Spanish word for birthday is cumpleaños, which literally means "complete years". Today Eva is one month old, so I guess it's her first cumplemeses, or "complete months".

It's unbelievable how much she (and our lives) have changed in just one month. She now weighs 9 pounds, 13 ounces and can hold her head up and push up with her arms when she's on her tummy. She is alert and smiling more and more, and I am pretty sure she has started to "coo". Life with a newborn is tiring and challenging at times, but we are really enjoying her and are all too aware of how fast the time will go by.

"Enough with the pictures, Mommy, I'm hungry!"

We've had lots of visitors this month and are looking forward to more as friends from here come back from summer holidays and family and friends from home can "hop over the pond". We spent this morning visiting with my friends Mary Anne and Edwina over breakfast at our neighborhood café. It was so nice to get out a bit and catch up! And of course we are really looking forward to my parents being able to visit this fall; Eva wants to meet her Grandma and Grandpa!

Here are some more photos from Eva's one month "birthday". Thanks to Tiffany for her pretty outfit!

¡Olé!

Bruno's girls

"Mommy loves me"

"Ta-ta for now!"

Sancho's New Look

2010-07-30T14:09:00.000+02:00

We are not the only ones adapting to life with baby. Our "roommate" Sancho has to get used to a new lifestyle, too. So far, he is responding very well to Eva: curious but cautious.

Since it's been so hot here, Bruno decided to take Sancho to the groomer's for a good haircut, and we are all very happy with the results. Less hair means less vacuuming and kitty grooming time for us, and Sancho is cool as a cucumber with his crew cut. Here he is, a new man!

A bonus is that the haircut came with a new toy: Sancho doesn't recognize himself without all the fur, so he's been spending a lot of time stalking and fighting with his own mousey tail!

Abre los ojos

2010-07-29T18:59:00.000+02:00

Eva is spending more alert time each day and starting to really notice and interact with us and the world around her. I am hoping this time awake during the day will also translate to more sleep at night! Here are a couple of pictures taken today.

Wednesday Weigh-In aka Just My Luck

2010-07-28T18:43:00.000+02:00

Every Wednesday morning, we take Eva to the pharmacy at the end of our street to get weighed. The idea is to do it the same day and approximate time each week and on the same scale to keep tabs on her growth. They even have a little card that they fill out for you each time to keep track. So far she's been gaining great! Here she is on the scale last week.

Last night we didn't get much sleep (less than usual, even), so we were moving slow this morning. Tired as I was, though, I really didn't want to skip her weigh-in. Well, I finally got Eva and myself dressed, fed, and ready to go, and we headed out. I never realized what a process it would be just to get ready for the day and go out with the baby! Here she is in her stroller ready to go to the pharmacy.

Alas, just my luck, I forgot that I live in Spain where the pharmacy is closed on Sundays, Saturday afternoons in summer, and as it so happened, from the 28th of July till the 17th of August. All that effort for nothing. So we went back home, put on the AC and talked to Grandma and Grandpa on Skype. Oh, Spain.

Sleeping Beauty

2010-07-25T17:53:00.000+02:00

Like all babies, Eva spends a lot of her time sleeping; in fact, she is sleeping on my lap as I write this. Here are some of my favorite pics of my little sleepyhead snoozing.

With Daddy last Sunday morning

In her pretty dress given to her by Bruno's cousin Ducia

Smiling about a nice dream?

Same day, different outfit. This one was from her Great Auntie Sharon, thank you!

Another day, another nap. Cute outfit from Great Auntie Lele, thank you, too!

And her favorite: snuggled up with her Mama

Photo Booth

2010-07-23T19:36:00.007+02:00

Eva's first "Photo Booth" session on Mommy's MacBook.

First Walk to the Park

2010-07-18T16:00:00.011+02:00

Since Bruno's back to work, Eva and I usually take our daily walk with her Abuela Salud. Salud and I both love to walk and chat, so it's the perfect way to start off our mornings. These photos were taken last Friday, the 16th of July when Eva was 11 days old. We took our first walk to the Christopher Colombus monument park in our neighborhood and did a big loop it all the way to the Parque del Alamillo. This is my favorite walking route; we are so lucky to have great parks nearby.

This map shows our route, more or less. (We, of course, go through the parks, not around them.) If you zoom in, you can see the aerial view of the Colombus monument. There is a big project underway now to link these two parks with a pedestrian bridge across the river; we can't wait for it to be finished!

Ver mapa más grande

Eva in her stroller

Eva and me at the Colombus monument

Eva and Salud

Hello Darling

2010-07-18T07:56:00.009+02:00

Two of many photo shoots of Eva being pretty. Thanks to Rachel and Jess for the adorable onesies.

8 days old

10 days old

¡¡¡Viva España!!!

2010-07-18T07:51:00.005+02:00

On Eva's first night home, we watched the Spanish national football team beat Germany in their first ever FIFA World Cup semi-finals match. Needless to say, there was a lot of excitement and anticipation for the Final against Holland, which was the following Sunday. Here is 6-day-old Eva dressed up to watch the game at home as a family. (She did the #1 pose on her own!)

Eva loves to look at and listen to this musical hippo when she gets changed. Thanks Great Auntie Marie and Great Uncle Jim!

We ended up losing power halfway through the match and had to listen to the end on the radio (a story for another day), but we will always remember that Eva was born the year that Spain won the World Cup! ¡¡¡Viva España!!!

First Walk

2010-07-18T07:43:00.007+02:00

Little by little we are establishing a routine with Eva. One thing we try to get in every day is a walk, so she (and Mommy) can get a little fresh air. Since it's so hot here in summer, we have to get out early in the morning. Here are a couple of pictures from Eva's first walk with Mommy and Daddy at five days old.

The adorable pram sheet was a gift from our friends Selu and Inma, who are themselves expecting a little girl any day now. We think Eva and their Lucía will be great friends. ¡Gracias, chicos! ♥

Favorite Things

2010-07-18T07:26:00.012+02:00

This swing has been a lifesaver. Being a first time parent, you have no idea what products you really need, what you will actually use and what will just take up space. Well, this swing/bouncer was definitely a good investment. Eva loves it, and it gives me a place to put her while she sleeps so I can get a few things done.

Since so many of my friends are expecting now, here are a few other products I highly recommend to make life with baby a little easier.

First is the Itzbeen timer.
This little gadget has 4 timers to help you remember how long "itzbeen" since baby's last diaper change, feeding, and nap. The fourth timer is unspecified. I use it to time how long she is at each side when feeding. It also has a light which comes in handy when getting up for night time feedings.

An invaluable item for me so far has been the Boppy nursing pillow.

Everyone says, "you need a Boppy" and now I know why. I even took it with us on a shopping excursion the other day just in case. It is awesome for getting baby into a good nursing position. Thanks to the lovely Sarah and Maya who gave this to me at my shower!

The Boppy is also fun for photo shoots.

Well, fun for Mommy anyway.

Another "must" for nursing moms is Lanisoh ointment. As far as I know it's not available in stores in Spain. The website Indybel (a site that specializes in UK and US products for moms and babies in Spain) does carry it, but for now I am having Mom send it to me from the States. For you preggos out there, trust me, you want this stuff; it's worth its weight in gold!

Last but not least is the Béaba folding bathtub. This is a great item for people like us who live in a small apartment, especially since we don't have a bathtub ourselves. You found the E for Eva Eileen in this photo, now can you find the bathtub?

This little number can be set up right on the kitchen counter, then folded up and put away in baby's room when we're finished. Plus it's pretty!

We haven't used the recliner yet, but I think we will give it a try tonight and maybe get some bath pics.

Mommy friends, what items can you not live without?

Homecoming

2010-07-18T04:41:00.011+02:00

We spent two nights in the hospital. The first night Eli stayed over with me and Bruno, which was awesome. She was a tremendous help that first night and in the first few days. I don't know what I would have done without her.

On Wednesday, the 7th, we were discharged from the hospital. I couldn't wait to get home! Eva wore a gown and bonnet made for her by Eli's mom, Carmen. I don't have a lot of pictures of her in it yet, because the professional photographer who visits the hospital did a little shoot with her before we left. I should be seeing the proofs in a week or so, I can't wait!

Here are a couple of shots of Eva's photo shoot at the hospital.

When we got home, Eva's cousins Marta and Ana were eagerly waiting to meet her. Here they are with her in her nursery for the first time.

Wall art over Eva's crib, designed by Daddy

She looks so tiny in her crib!

We have been home now about a week and a half, and we are starting to get the hang of things. Eva is a great eater and sleeper, and little by little we are establishing a routine. We are really enjoying her.

Eva's Birth Story

2010-07-17T09:29:00.013+02:00

I had a feeling all day on the 4th that I would be going into labor that night. Around 8:30 pm Bruno and I went for a walk around the neighborhood, and I told him, "I think the baby is coming tomorrow." Little did I know that within 12 hours of saying that she would be born!

I started having some cramping when we went to bed, and I pretty much knew that things were getting started, but I decided to try to sleep as long as possible. I woke up around 4 am with contractions and got up. I didn't want to wake Bruno up yet, so I picked up a little around the house. Then around 5 I decided to try to go back to bed. Well, as soon as I did, another contraction came on, and I realized I should probably wake Bruno up.

Bruno got up and took a quick shower. Then we started timing contractions. I couldn't believe it when he told me "3 minutes". They were getting stronger and not showing any signs of slowing, so Bruno called his brother. They had been staying at Salud's house for the previous few days basically waiting for the "big event".

I felt a little silly heading to the hospital barely having labored at home, because my plan was to stay home as long as I could. Two hours did not seem like a very valient effort, but it did seem like it was really time to go. Pablo drove us to the hospital, and we got there about 6 am.

Before I could be admitted, they had to check me to be sure I was really in labor. I remember saying to the nurse, "Please just don't tell me I'm only at one centimeter!"
So she checked me and she said: How far do you think you are?
Me: I have no idea.
Nurse: You are only at about half a centimeter. Is this your first? (This question would be asked many times in our short hospital stint.)

I couldn't believe it. I was one of those women who goes rushing to the hospital at the first contraction only to find out she had indigestion or something. And if this wasn't the real deal, what in the heck was I in for later?!

They set me up on machines to monitor my contractions. Bruno couldn't be with me in that area of the maternity ward, so I was all alone with just one other woman in the room being monitored, but she was perfectly fine, sitting in a chair and just looked bored. I, on the other hand, was still having contractions fast and hard and was desperate for this monitoring to be finished.

When they finally came for me (no idea how long it was, felt like forever), they told me I was in pre-labor. (Important note: they didn't do another internal check for progress.) So they sent me back to the waiting room with Bruno and told me they would call me to be checked shortly.

No idea how long I was in that waiting room with Bruno, but it was miserable. I was sitting in a chair that didn't even recline, Bruno brought me another chair to put my feet up. The contractions were only getting closer together. It seemed like one hadn't finished when the next one was starting. Bruno wanted to call for someone to see me, but I didn't want him to leave me. Finally he did go back and tell them that I needed to be seen ASAP. I had to pee so we went to the restroom, and when I came out, another contraction came on and my body went into a squatting position.

Just then, we were called back to be examined again, so I had to get up. Once again, I had to go by myself. I sat at the nurse's desk and asked her if I was going to be admitted. Thank goodness she said I was and that if I wanted an epidural I could get one. I had had very mixed feelings about the epidural, but at that point, I would have taken anything!

So they took me to a laboring room and put me in a bed (about time!) and told me they were going to prep my epidural. I was left alone again for maybe a minute or two and could feel that my body wanted to push. I was trying not to, but it was impossible to resist the urge. Then the nurses were back and Bruno was there, too. (I think he had to come in through a different door or something.)

The nurses asked me if I felt like I needed to push. I said yes. One nurse did an internal check and says to the other "She's complete!"
I was like, "What does that mean? Am I in transition?"
The other nurse said, "No, no. You're done with that. You're ready to push! There is no time for the epidural, let's go." And they wheeled me right into the delivery room. Eva was born less than a half hour later at 8:50 am, and she was perfectly healthy. I was in total shock at how fast everything had gone, and I think Bruno was, too!

A funny side anecdote: They were supposed to get a bunch of information from us when I was admitted, but since there was no time, they decided to do it right in the delivery room while I was pushing! So I hear one of the nurses asking Bruno what the baby is going to be called, and I hear him saying Eva, then she asked for the last names. I didn't want him to forget, so I start saying, "Her middle name, her middle name!"
So Bruno tells the nurse it's Eva Eileen, and then (to make sure he got it right), he asks me to spell Eileen. Just imagine me trying to birth a baby and at the same time spelling out E-I-L-E-E-N. With all those vowels, it sounded like a breathing exercise! And all this in Spanish, too! Priceless.

Anyway, even though the circumstances were less than perfect, and I do think that the hospital personnel was rather negligent, I am so happy with the way everything went. I feel so blessed to have had such a quick and drug-free birth, which I think has also contributed to my excellent recovery and Eva's overall well-being, too. Not to mention, it makes for a great story.

Here are some photos from the hospital.

Right after delivery

In her bassinet in our hospital room

First smile

Eva and her Abuela Salud

Eva and Daddy

Our little family

Eva Eileen

2010-07-17T08:48:00.007+02:00

♥ Eva Eileen Limones MacDonald ♥
born Monday, July 5, 2010
at 8:50 am
weighing 7 pounds
measuring 19 inches

Countdown

2010-06-14T15:05:00.005+02:00

We have about two or three weeks until the baby is here; my official due date is the 1st, I'm kind of hoping for the 4th, but I guess it's really up to baby! I can't believe how fast (and relatively comfortably) this pregnancy has gone by. I finished work two weeks ago, so now I can focus on getting everything ready for baby. Still have a few odds and ends to take care of, but all in all, we are in good shape. I even managed to get a decent haircut, no small feat in Sevilla! Here are a few pics of me at 37.5 weeks and a few of the nursery, though not quite complete.

Bathroom mirror shots are always classy, haha

Baby's crib was a gift from Dot and John, bedding from Kim and Blair. Thank you! ♥

Wardrobe

Changing table

Well, that's it for now. Maybe the next post will have some baby pics!

PS In the last picture there is a clue to baby's name (now that we've finally decided). Anyone care to venture a guess?

Sneak Peak

2010-05-12T15:44:00.008+02:00

Besides the baby shower, my favorite part of Mom's visit was going for a 3D/4D ultrasound. It was so cool to get a little "sneak peak" of baby's face, see her heart beating, her little feet and hands, etc. It was especially nice that both grandmothers could be there to see it. Here are a few stills that we captured from the video. She's come a long way since her "first picture" back in December.

Ultrasound at 11 weeks (December 17, 2009)

3D Ultrasound at 32 weeks (May 6, 2010)

Feet and hand

Here is the complete video on Youtube

Who do you think she looks like?

Spring Fling V: En Casita (at home)

2010-05-12T13:50:00.006+02:00

When not wandering around the center, Mom and I spent some time at home cooking, playing with Sancho, and occasionally visiting with Bruno who was having a crazy week at work.

We spent one day making Marie's famous lemon biscotti, meatballs and sauce. Yum!

Yummy eggplant parmesan dinner that Mom prepared while Bruno and I were at work

Salud showing me places she'd been visiting in Valencia. (That blouse makes me look way bigger than I really am, for the record.)

Sancho on the washing machine, one of his favorite spots

Dozing Al Bundy style

Fighting with "Tiger"

Sancho post-fight

Spring Fling IV: De Paseo

2010-05-09T11:50:00.008+02:00

Well, as I said in the last post, my Mom got in to Seville just in time for the baby shower. It was a quick trip, but we had a lot of fun shopping, cooking, exploring a bit, and just being together.

Here are a few pictures from an afternoon spent de paseo (strolling) in the old city and the Barrio Santa Cruz

Plaza del Triunfo

The Giralda bell tower

Me in the entrance of San Marco, an Italian restaurant located in a 12th century Arab bathhouse

A pretty courtyard in the Barrio Santa Cruz

Mom in the tea room at Aire Sevilla, an old mansion turned into Arab style baths

Our Moroccan style tea set

Me with the giant Roman columns on Marmoles Street. These columns were part of a Roman temple and are over 260 feet tall.

The wrought iron cross at Plaza de Santa Cruz

The entrance of the Callejón del Agua, part of the old city walls

Judería Street

The Cathedral

French girls on a school trip in Mom's favorite plaza

Interior of a typical restaurant (Restaurante la Cueva)in Plaza Doña Elvira

Lunch in the center on Mom's last day

Spring Fling III: Baby Shower

2010-05-09T10:19:00.004+02:00

My Mom arrived Friday, the 30th of April, just in time for my baby shower the next evening. The baby shower was for both me and my friend Jennie who is due with a little boy just a week before me and was hosted by the party planner extraordinaire Sarah who is also expecting a little one the end of October. There must be something in the agua! We had a great time at the shower with all our Americana friends. My Aunt Sharon and Uncle Mike Skyped in from Florida which was very cool, too. I couldn't have asked for a nicer shower, so thanks to everyone near and far who participated. Here are some of the many photos.

Here is the whole group of Americanas plus our resident Brit, Edwina. (Left to right: Sarah, Mary Anne, me, Jennie, Alexis, Maya, Edwina, Rachel, and Hoye)

Alexis's parents were also visiting from New Jersey, so they joined us, too.

The food was awesome, Sarah and the girls really outdid themselves!

Maya was the official scribe, not an easy task considering she had to keep up with two of us opening all these presents!

Jennie and I opening our presents from each other

A beautiful afghan crocheted for baby by Linda D.

Adorable dress from Rachel

Sarah's kitty Loco liked the curly ribbons

Super soft hippo and never-ending bag of clothes sent by Marie and Jim J.

Beautiful fleece blanket made for baby by Dot

Cute socks that look like Mary Jane shoes sent from Lorna

The present opening seemed to go on forever. There is no doubt that the Limoncita is already a very loved, very fortunate little girl. I don't think I will be needing to buy her clothes for quite some time! Thanks again to everyone.

A few more pictures of the girls

Spring Fling II: Feria de Abril

2010-05-08T13:27:00.007+02:00

Two weeks after Holy Week is the April Fair. I was somehow able to squeeze into my flamenco dress from last year, so I put it on and headed to the Fair with friends from work. Here are a few pictures from our excursion, many of which I stole from my co-American at work, Francesca.

We all met up at the portada (entrance) which has a different design every year. This year it celebrated 100 years of aviation in Seville.

Here are a few pictures by the portada and outside Esther's caseta where we had lunch.

Mercedes, me, Genni, and Francesca

Here is the whole María Zambrano School group in the caseta

The four language assistants that the school has had over the past five years with Esther (l-r: me, Francesca, Esther, Genni, Antonietta)

Francesca dancing sevillanas with Mercedes

This is me with my friend Susana who I ran into by coincidence in the caseta.

Dot and John had been on the road between Holy Week and the Fair. They got back to Seville on the Wednesday evening. Bruno and I took them to the fair on Saturday which was a beautiful day and surprisingly not overly crowded. I only have a couple of photos. Maybe I will steal some of Dot and John's when they get them online.

Dot and me in front of the portada

Bruno and John playing carnival games

Dot and John were off to Barcelona the following Tuesday to continue their European adventure and we had a few days to get ready for a visit from my mom.

Spring Fling I: Semana Santa 2010

2010-05-07T10:11:00.015+02:00

The past six weeks have been crazy. Between 3 weeks of houseguests, 2 day-visits from former NAHS students, Holy Week, the April Fair, and my baby shower, we also managed to fit in completely redoing the guest room, painting and putting in new flooring in the baby's room, taking a prepared childbirth class, and, oh yeah, working. It's been nuts but a lot of fun. Now I'm looking forward to a little down time before baby gets here and we have to kiss relaxation goodbye.

It all started back at the end of March with a visit from my former student Ben who's studying abroad this semester in Florence. He and two friends from his program came to Seville part of their spring break and I got to show them around one day. We visited the Alcázar of Seville (old Moorish palace), the Plaza de España and the María Luisa Park. It was a really nice day and a real treat to get to catch up with Ben. Here's a photo of us taken at the Alcázar.

The following Tuesday my Aunt Dot and Uncle John arrived in Seville to spend Easter week. We spent the Wednesday morning in Triana with Salud and her friend Agu visiting the churches from which some of the Holy Week processions go out. Here are Dot and John after we crossed the "Cachorro" Bridge (named for one of the floats we were to visit) to the Triana side of the river.

Our first stop was the church of "El Cachorro" followed by the "Our Lady of the O" and my favorite, the "Esperanza of Triana". This post is going to be long enough without a lot of explanation, so if you want to learn more about Seville's Holy Week traditions, click here. Here are photos of the Esperanza of Triana (Our Lady of Hope) and the Cristo de las Tres Caídas, a float which represents the three falls of Christ. The Madonna figure dates from the early 1800s and the Christ from the early 1600s.

Close-up of the Cristo and Roman Centurion

That evening we set out to see the processions parade through the streets of the old city on their way to the Cathedral. We were lucky and found a couple of great viewing spots that were not too crowded. We saw the processions known as the 7 words of Christ and the Bakers (for the bakers' guild who started the brotherhood). The latter represents Christ's arrest in the garden and is one of the largest floats of the Holy Week processions. It is truly spectacular.

El Cristo de los Panaderos

A close-up of the figure of Judas Iscariot

We also went to see the Esperanza of Triana and the Macarena returning to their home churches on Good Friday morning after completing their hours long parade all night through the city. In Seville, there are two big rivalries: one between the football teams Sevilla and Betis and the other between these two Madonnas. Even though I now live in Macarena territory, I have to say I favor the Esperanza of Triana, because I lived in that area when I first came to study in Seville. La Limoncita started kicking up a storm as the procession passed by heading back over the river, so I think she is going to be a a little Trianera, too.

Nesting

2010-03-20T09:36:00.003+01:00

Maybe it's just the nice spring weather we've had the past few days, but I think I'm in nesting mode. Lately I can't sit still (or sleep) and all I can think about is organizing and cleaning! I wish this feeling would never end, I love having the extra energy (except at 3 AM).

Slowly but surely we're getting the house ready for baby. We've bought a playpen with bassinet attachment for her to sleep in our room for the first few months. I searched high and low in all the baby shops in Seville to find this model and in this color scheme. Finally bought the floor model at the only place that had it. It was worth the searching, I think!

Another thing I was losing sleep over was the baby carriage. There are so many options and it's so hard to know what is really necessary. Luckily my friend Lynnette was freeing up some storage space and offered me the travel system (among other great stuff) she used for her now 3-year-old son Andrew. This is a picture I found online of the same model in the same colours. Thanks, Lynnette, you are awesome!!!

This weekend and next, we are working on getting the guest room ready for Dot and John's Easter Week visit and hopefully getting the baby's room painted. Bruno also has a ton of work to do at Exclama, so we'll see what he has time and energy to get done.

Oh, and my first baby clothes purchase, a gift for Bruno for Spanish Father's Day which was yesterday (Saint Joseph's Day). He loved it! Can't wait to see it on our little lady!

El Limonero and La Limoncita

2010-02-15T17:32:00.011+01:00

With the impending arrival of our little one, I've decided that "Stacy & Bruno in Sevilla" no longer quite fits. Welcome to El Limonero, The Lemon Tree, a blog about our life in Sevilla as a family!

I'm now half-way through the pregnancy, and everything is going great. Last Thursday we went for my 20-week ultrasound and were able to see the baby's heart beating, little hands and feet, and lovely profile. We also found out that despite my "mother's intuition", El Limoncito is actually La Limoncita! Yes, we will be having a little girl and are thrilled.

I've started to feel her moving around, and sometimes she even kicks hard enough that Bruno can feel it from the outside. It's a truly amazing experience and we can't wait to meet her.

For now, we are starting to get her room ready. I like this nursery from IKEA and this bedding. Cute, right?
I'll post some pictures of the nursery when we get things set up, but that won't be for a while still.

And here's one final pic of me and my "bump" at 4.5 months. I took it myself with the webcam, so it's not the best quality. When I do a better bump photo shoot, I'll post more.

SIMOF 2010

2010-02-03T16:31:00.004+01:00

Last Friday evening I went to the SIMOF 2010 Expo with a group of women from the American Women's Club of Seville. It's an annual flamenco fashion expo complete with runway shows in anticipation of the upcoming Feria season. Here are some of my favorite photos from a local newspaper's website of the Loli Vera runway show that we caught. (Click here for the Diario de Sevilla's complete coverage of the expo, including lots of runway show pics.)

Here are the models all together at the end of the show. This photo gives you an overall feel for this collection's look.

These were a few of my favorite styles.

These last two were my absolute favorites.

With my growing baby bump, I'm not sure if I'll be dressing up this year or not, but after seeing all these gorgeous dresses, I am really tempted to find something in a nice stretchy material and not miss out on the fun. We'll see...

Happy Holidays 2009

2010-01-31T13:54:00.000+01:00

Last Day of Dave's Trip

2010-01-23T20:14:00.007+01:00

Dave's last day in Sevilla we spent doing a little souvenir shopping, lunch at Flaherty's Irish Pub, a tour of the newly renovated Church of el Salvador, and coffee at the Hotel Alfonso XIII. Not a bad way to top off the trip.

The main altar of el Salvador, known as Seville's "second cathedral"

Retablo (altarpiece) of Saints Justa and Rufina, patrons of Sevilla

"La Borriquita" represents Jesus entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. The sculpture dates from the 17th Century.

Lunch at Flaherty's

Me with my cerveza sin-alcohol (non-alcoholic beer)

Dave outside the Alfonso XIII Hotel

This is where we had our coffee. The hotel was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, and is an architectural gem.
Another photo from the hotel's website
Thanks, Dave, for coming to visit, we really enjoyed having you here!

Carmona

2010-01-23T12:24:00.011+01:00

We spent an evening and the following day with my sister-in-law and nieces in the town of Carmona, about 25 miles from Sevilla. It's another old Roman city that makes for a great day trip from Seville.

Dave with a Roman mosaic discovered during a construction project and moved to the city hall

Here are Eli, Marta, Ana and I having a coffee at the market plaza

Dave with the girls

Dave and Marta outside the market

The ruins of the old castle at sunset

The red moon rising over the vega

The girls playing Mario Kart with Uncle Bruno

While the girls were in school the next day, Eli gave us a tour of her town. Our first visit was the Alcázar Puerta de Sevilla (the fortress at the gate of the old road to Seville).

Here is a photo from the Andalusian region's tourism website that shows the whole fortress.

Dave in the fortress gate

View of the town

View of the vega

Eli and me

After the Alcázar we visited the Roman amphitheatre and necropolis, where we were lucky enough to have a guide take us on a private tour through parts that are not normally open to the public. The necropolis has over 900 family tombs that date from 200 BC to 400 AD.

Some school children on a field trip were reenacting a Roman religious ceremony

The ruins of the amphitheatre

Dave and Eli

Ancient frescos

Dave and Eli checking out the wall paintings

Dave and I reclining Roman-style as explained to us by our guide. This is where people would eat and drink when at the necropolis.

Roadtrip: Ronda-Costa del Sol-Gibraltar

2010-01-03T15:09:00.007+01:00

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Over the Halloween weekend, Dave, Bruno and I took a roadtrip to the white village of Ronda, the Costa del Sol, and finally Gibraltar. Here are some of the best pictures.

In Ronda

The town of Ronda sits on cliffs above a river gorge, and the views are incredible.

Dave and friend outside the bullring, the oldest in Spain still in use.

Ever the ladies man

After lunch in Ronda, we headed to Estepona, a town on the Costa del Sol, where we had reservations to spend the night. The hotel was really nice, I wish we could have spent the whole day at the pool. Dave did take a dip in the Med and in the pool in the morning before we checked out. Here are a few pics from out photo shoot at the hotel pool and beach. Hard to believe this was already the beginning of November!

Dave and I living the good life out on the balcony

View of the Med from our balcony

Photo shoot at the beach

Dave taking a dip

Dave pointing to Gibraltar in the distance

At the hotel pool

Soaking up the Andalusian sun

From Estepona we drove about an hour to Gibraltar. The weather took a turn for the worse, but luckily it only sprinkled a bit. And there were still plenty of monkies to be seen.

In Jolly Old Gibraltar

Dave was a little nervous to meet the apes

View from the cable car going up

View from the observatory

First monkey sighting

The Rock

Dave making friends

The view across the Strait of Gibraltar to Africa

Dave "touching" Africa

More Apes (Yeah, I know I'm corny.)

Two of a kind

Mama and baby

Chillin'

Catching a ride

After a great day of monkey-watching, we drove back to Seville. Here are some windmills we spotted on the way home.

Day Trip to Aracena

2009-12-02T16:36:00.009+01:00

Our next day trip was to the village of Aracena, just over an hour from Seville in the mountains of Huelva Province.

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Our first stop (after breakfast) was to the Cave of Wonders (Gruta de las Maravillas). That in itself was definitely worth the visit. It's breathtaking. No photography is allowed in the cave, but there are a few on their website. Here's Dave entering the cave, you can see he's already marvelled.

Outside the cave

At the cave museum (Bruno's company did all the printwork for the museum.)

After the cave, we went to the Museo del Jamón, or Ham Museum. Aracena and the surrounding area are known for the cured Iberian Ham. I never knew there was so much to know about ham!

We met up for lunch with an American friend of mine, Kate and her husband Iván who live in Aracena. Here's a picture from their wedding (complements of Facebook) since I flaked and didn't get a picture of us together in Aracena.
After lunch, Iván and Kate took us up to the castle for spectacular views of Aracena and its surroundings. Here is the castle taken from below.

And the views from above

Then we went for coffee at a hotel up on another high hill with views of the castle in the distance.

Aracena makes a really easy and fun day trip from Seville, and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who comes to visit. Thanks to Kate and Iván for showing us around!

Jerez de la Frontera

2009-11-23T13:31:00.004+01:00

On Friday, the 30th of October, we took a day trip with my mother-in-law, Salud, to Jerez de la Frontera. I'd never been, but my friend Dana went this summer and said it was worth a visit, so we decided to check it out. We were not disappointed. Famous for its horses and especially for sherry wine production, and just under an hour on the train from Sevilla, it's a perfect day trip. We explored the city center and visited the González-Byass bodega (winery), makers of Tío Pepe brand sherry, one of the best-known and widely exported sherry wines. Here are some of the photos of Jerez and of the Tío Pepe tour.

This giant statue greeted us outside the train station

The old city walls and the Alcázar, medieval Moorish fortress

The González-Byass Bodega and the Cathedral of Jerez

On the tour of the bodega we rode around in a little train like this one

At the Tío Pepe bodega

Nothing Dave likes better than posing with novelty decorations

Pretty scenery

The coopery

Barrels of aging sherry

Earthenware wine jugs outside one of the many dark rooms full of barrels of aging sherry

Whenever a celebrity visits the bodega, they sign a barrel. There are barrels signed by various heads of state, actors and actresses, authors, etc. This one was signed by Picasso, though not at the actual bodega, as he was in exile in France at the time.

After the tour there was a tasting in which I could of course not partake, and Salud not being much of a drinker, Dave had it all to himself. I don't think he minded.

Dave and I at the tasting

Dave and Salud at the park across from the bodega

We didn't have time to see the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art and its famous horse ballet (maybe next time), but we did spot these handsome fellows

We got back to Sevilla exhausted that evening, but we had to recharge our batteries for the next trip: the mountain village of Aracena.

Encore

2009-11-22T12:14:00.009+01:00

It's hard to believe it's already the end of November! The last couple of months have been busy. I got back to school and my private English lessons in early October, and then we had a great 2-week visit from my brother Dave the end of October through the beginning of November. Since there is nothing I like better than "stealing Dave's thunder" (see: our engagement story), it only seemed fitting that during his trip here I should discover that I'm expecting! Yes, if all goes well (keep your fingers crossed for us), Bruno and I are going to be parents the beginning of July. We are so excited. But this post isn't about baby news, it's about our awesome visit with Dave, so on to that...

The first couple of days we spent mostly near where we live, checking out our neighborhood park and its enormous monument to Christopher Colombus, the Alamillo park across the river, visits to Exclama! and to my school. Since I was the DP (designated photographer), there are not a lot of pictures of these first few days, because everything we were doing was "everyday stuff" for me. (One of these days I ought to put up some photos of our piso and barrio for those of you who've never been here.) Anyway, here are a few pictures in and around San Jerónimo.

The picture at the top is of the River Guadalquivir and San Jerónimo taken from the Alamillo Bridge. The building with the pointy roof is the 15th Century monastery on our street that the neighborhood is named after. Rumour has it that the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, would stop here to freshen up before making their official entrance into the city when visiting.

Here is Dave with the Colombus monument, given to the city of Seville from Russia as a gift commemorating the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America.

Here is Dave in the Alamillo park, just across the river. He's looking into the trees because we'd just seen "pargeons" which apparently can be found here and in other Spanish parks. Unfortunately I couldn't get a picture, but my Aunt Dot managed to a couple of years ago in Barcelona. I had never seen them before, how weird. (Check her photos here.)

The Alamillo Bridge taken from the park

The Alamillo Bridge taken from the bridge

Here's Dave visiting Bruno at work (and looking bad-ass on the company scooter)

And the boys at our place playing "Rock Band"

On the third day of the trip, we finally got into the center of Seville. We were mostly doing window shopping, since Dave had seen most of the sites just last summer. We did stop for a beer and 7up (guess who drank what) at the rooftop bar at the Hotel Doña María where we took this picture of the Cathedral of Seville's minaret. No trip to Seville is complete without at least one shot of the Giralda in all her glory.

We also spent one evening going to the Arab baths/spa at Aire de Sevilla which is always a real treat, followed by dinner in the Barrio Santa Cruz, the old, old city. Here is a promotional shot from Aire de Sevilla, highly recommended to anyone who comes to visit.

The next day we took a day trip with my mother-in-law, Salud, to the nearby city of Jerez de la Frontera. Stay tuned...

Our "Little" Wedding

2009-09-30T13:08:00.005+02:00

As many of you know, Bruno and I had two weddings. Sometimes I find myself saying "at our real wedding", but then I think about it and both were real. One was real in the sense that it was legally binding and marked the true beginning of our life together (just 2 weeks after Bruno arrived in the US). This was also the wedding that my two dear grandmothers were able to attend, so it makes it all the more "real" for that reason, too.

The other was also real, though, because it was when we were surrounded by all our closest friends and family. We were so blessed to have people from near and far be with us on our (second) big day. So, when I find myself referring to one wedding or the other, I've come to refer to them as our "little wedding" and "big wedding". They were both real.

Tomorrow marks the 5 year anniversary of our little wedding, the one most of you didn't see, because we didn't want to steal the thunder, per sé, of the big wedding. I'll always consider this our real anniversary (though I do get Bruno to take me out for both!), because, as I said above, it really does mark the beginning of our life together. It was an amazing day, one that I'll always treasure in my memory.

Bruno and I didn't want to make a "big deal" out of the whole thing, but between my mom insisting upon flowers and a nice dinner in Newburyport (by limo) and Lorraine, our dear friend and JP, knowing just the right words for a simple but meaningful ceremony, our "no big deal" wedding was just perfect.

I have more pictures, but I need to scan them, and that is a project for another day. Here are a few taken by Lorraine's husband, Frank.

Taking our vows

With Mom and Dad

Our first kiss as a married couple

These past five years have been like a miniature version of what I think our marriage will be: mostly good times with some not-so-good times. We've been through a lot and grown up a lot, and I just hope that the rest of our life together brings us as much happiness (in spite of hard times) as these first five years have.

Escapada

2009-08-10T12:25:00.009+02:00

Most Spaniards spend the month of August veraneando ("summering") at the beach, but with the business, we're not able to take that kind of time away. Luckily, we live close enough to both the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts to plan weekend escapadas (get-aways). This weekend's escapada was to Torremolinos on the Mediterranean Costa del Sol. We got a good last-minute deal on the hotel right on the boardwalk and with great views of the sea. The photo above was taken from our balcony where we had dinner and wine at night. Even the moon collaborated, rising orange and nearly full, just gorgeous.

We spent the mornings walking along the shore that stretches on for miles. The Costa del Sol is more popular with foreigners than with Spaniards, but I love seeing the mountains that line the coast, reminiscent of Southern California.

One of many amazing sand sculptures along the boardwalk

Of course, no trip to the beach would be complete without fresh seafood at a chiringuito (beach bar). We had a great lunch of salad, grilled sea bass, and espetos de sardinas (fresh sardines grilled in a spit made of an old fishing boat, very typical in this region).

(© All rights reserved by CBalanzá)

Back to Sevilla this morning, I am already dreaming of another escapada. Maybe Portugal...

Summer Potpourri

2009-07-24T15:47:00.010+02:00

It's been a great summer so far, starting off with a trip home to the States. At the Lake we caught up with all of the Quayside buddies. I finally got to try Jerry's famous margaritas after a fun day at the Weirs in Roy and Judy's boat.

Some bikes at the Weirs

The girls on Roy and Judy's gorgeous boat.

Dave, Jerry, and me at Roy and Judy's

Dad at the helm of After Six

Mom and Jerry making Margaritas

Back in Sevilla, we spent the 4th of July at our friends Sarah and Daniel's house with some of the other Americana crew. Thanks for a great time, Sarita!

Here is the hostess with her lovely American flag cake
Rachel, me, and Jennie (Jennie and I didn't realize we were supposed to be doing wind-blown fashion poses)

July 19th was our kitty Sancho's first birthday. Here he is as a baby and recently, so grown up!

I also started my driving lessons this month, and yesterday, after 3 weeks of practice, I took and passed the exam. I am so happy and relieved to have that task checked off my list! Here I am with the L plate that new drivers have to display for the first year of driving.
Bruno also had a good day yesterday, as he and his brother are now officially finished with their third business partner. For those who don't know the story, let's just say a huge burden has been lifted. So we have a lot to celebrate this weekend! ¡Salud!

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T10:53:00.003+02:00

Feria de Abril 2009

2009-05-03T16:16:00.006+02:00

After a very long delay, we finally got back to Sevilla on Friday evening, and the first thing we could see from the plane was the Portada (entrance) to the fair.

After resting all day Saturday, we mustered up the energy to hit the fair with Eli and Bruno's cousin Adriana.

Sunday we had a photo shoot in the neighborhood before Eli took the girls to the fair.

Ana was much more interested in the fountain than in looking at the camera.

Me and the girls

Me and Eli (photo taken by Marta)

Eli and the girls

Blitzreise nach Amerika

2009-05-03T11:37:00.005+02:00

We just got back from a short but really nice visit to the States. We were able to visit my family, catch up with some friends, and enjoy unusually warm New England spring.

We got into town late on Thursday evening, and on Friday my parents hosted some family and friends for a pizza party.

Here I am with Mom and Bruno enjoying some of her famous margaritas, yum!

Mom and Dad making the pizzas

Dave and Lisa had a blast preparing fancy cocktails with Bärenjäger honey liquor even though no one drank them.

Here's Jay and one of Dad's pizzas

Me, Blair, Jess, Dave, and Lisa

Jess and me at "Dave's Bar"

We spent the weekend on the Cape with my family and some of my parents friends from the Lake.

A perfect daffodil with typical Cape Cod shingles in the background.

Dave with various novelty decorations. Please vote for your favorite.

The whole family at lunch at Spanky's Clam Shack

Típico Americano

Can't get much more American than this:

Bruno, Dave, Mom, and me outside the JFK Museum in Hyannis

Saturday evening we had an amazing dinner with Judy, Roy, Linda, and Jerry at the Yarmouth House Restaurant. The food and service were outstanding, as was the company, of course!

Sunday we took a drive to Falmouth to see the progress of the work being done at my grandparents' house. The whole house was nearly destroyed when a pipe burst last winter, so it's great to see it getting back into shape.

View from the living room

View from the yard

Another pretty daffy

We spent Monday on a shopping excursion with my brother, followed by an indispensable lunch from Harrison's.

Another highlight of the trip was visiting with our friends Claudia and Luis, her mom, and their baby Lucas.

Me with Lucas, ¡qué bebé más guapo!

Before we knew it, it was our last night. The time flew by, but it was a lot of fun. See you in June, 279 Osgood!

Happy Easter 2009!

2009-04-12T19:26:00.017+02:00

As I mentioned in my last post, I've spent most of my break studying for my Spanish learner's permit exam. Sure, laugh, but do you know what this sign means?

What about this one?

Crazy Europeans. What I don't understand is why they make the test so hard if they all drive like maniacs anyway? Not to mention that they think it's perfectly acceptable to double park as long as they leave the car in neutral without the emergency brake so that those whom they've parked in can push it out of the way if need be.

Between study sessions, I was preparing for Easter dinner here. Bruno actually had a whole 4 days off, so he's been enjoying some well deserved rest and relaxation while I try to channel my inner Susie Homemaker.
Here are the Easter "baskets" (beach pails) I made for our nieces
and the girls collecting the candies that Uncle Bruno hid around the living room.

For lunch, I made Todd English's Asparagus Butter Risotto with Shrimp, which is always a hit. I love this dish for Easter because of its spring colors and the use of the in-season asparagus. Also because I know how to make it. (Pic from Mom's visit at Christmas)

For dessert, we had chick cupcakes complements of Martha Stewart. I dare say mine came out just as cute as hers. I was especially proud of myself for making my own frosting. Thanks, Martha.

Naturally, before eating the chicks I insisted on a photo shoot. Here are all of us with our chicks.

The picture of me was taken by Marta, not bad for a 6-year-old, right?

Tomorrow, back to work, but in just a week and a half we'll be off to America. Can't wait to stock up on Crisco, confectioner's sugar, and Craisins!

April in Seville

2009-04-04T10:45:00.006+02:00

It's that time of year again. The orange blossom and incense perfumed air vibrates from the eery pounding of drums and trumpets announcing the arrival of Spring in Seville. Though it may officially start in March, every good Sevillano knows that it's not Spring until Holy Week. The streets are abuzz with chatter of impending holidays that mean beach days for some, but for the for the capillitas, mean watching or marching in procession after procession of images parading from their home churches to the Cathedral and back. During Semana Santa, the streets of Sevilla take on a new life, an indescribable combination of Cruzcampo-infused revelry and the most reverent of solemnity.

After two weeks of work to rest and recover, the city makes another transformation. The processional marches and saetas are replaced with sevillanas, hooded tunics turned in for flamenco dresses and riding costumes, and religious floats make way for horse-drawn carriages on their way to the April Fair.
As for me, I'll be spending most of Easter week studying for my Spanish learner's permit exam (April 15th, wish me luck!) and getting ready for Easter at our house with Bruno's family.

Apart from the Fiestas de Primavera, Bruno and I are looking forward to spending a few days in Boston with my family, returning just in time to catch the last couple of days of the Feria. I'm especially looking forward to debuting my first flamenco dress of my very own made by Carmen,
Ellie's mom. (Photos to come!)

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter and looking forward to seeing some of you in just a few weeks!

Christmas 2008: Más vale tarde que nunca

2009-02-21T22:49:00.000+01:00

Now that it's almost the end of February, I guess it's about time I get some Christmas pictures up here! My best present was a visit from my Mom who stayed with us through New Year's. We lucked out with the weather and enjoyed lots of paseo (strolling) in the city center.

Christmas in Seville is a really pretty time of year; the orange tree-lined streets are lit up with white lights and full of people shopping, caroling, and eating roasted chestnuts. I'm not sure it can compete with a white New England Christmas, but as I've never been much for snow, I love it. Here are some of my favorite pictures from Mom's visit.

Mom with Eli, Marta, and Bruno on Christmas Day

Marta and Ana opening presents

Mom and Salud, las consuegras

Christmas Dinner (my "famous" Chicken Marbella, squash, and mandarin-cranberry salad) prepared by Mom and me

Mom with her Feliz Navidad stocking

Mom with her "grandcat", Sancho

Sancho-baby and me
Sancho under the Christmas tree

Visiting the Basilica of the Macarena

Christmas lights at La Campana

Christmas lights and guitarist at the Plaza del Duque

Bruno and I before lunch

Me with my new necklace and bracelet set from Mom and Dad

The Juan Luis Cayuela guitar shop where we had the pleasure of talking with the owner who has been making guitars for over 60 years and showed us some of his favorite pieces.

We spent a lot of time at the artesan fair in the Plaza Nueva. Here's a leather-goods booth where we bought some belts for Dad, Bruno, and Dave.

Mom in the Plaza Nueva under an orange tree

Art in the Street exhibit of Rodin sculptures

View of the Giralda minaret from the main avenue of the city center

The Nativity scene at the Town Hall

The old city walls at the entrance to the Santa Cruz quarter

Mom in a little square in Santa Cruz

A friend of my brother's

Mom and I at a café in the Plaza de San Francisco

The Arch-Bishop's Palace

La Puerta del Perdón, or the Gate of Forgiveness, at the Cathedral

One of the highlights of the visit was our trip to the Arab baths at Aire de Sevilla, one of my favorite places in Seville! Here is a picture of the main bath from their website, but it's something you really have to experience first person.

Town Hall and the Giralda minaret

Apart from enjoying the sights and sounds of the city center, we had a great time cooking, drinking wine, celebrating New Year's Eve Spanish style (eating 12 grapes for each strike of the clock at midnight), and just being together. What a fantastic Christmas present!

¡Feliz Navidad!

2008-12-07T21:50:00.002+01:00

(Click on image to expand)

Introducing Sancho Panza

2008-09-20T16:16:00.007+02:00

This is our new kitten, Sancho. He's eight weeks old and just came home today.

Here he is in his old home with his brother. They were both so cute, but we ended up with Sancho because he was friendlier.

The town where he was born is about an hour from Seville, but besides a lot of meowing, he did really well in the car. His birth name was Gargamel, like the villain from the Smurfs, but we settled on Sancho (after Don Quixote's famous sidekick) on the way home. Once we got home, he calmed down and explored and played a bit, ate, and fell asleep. As I write this he and Bruno are both out like lights.

Checking the place out...

Playing with the ball he brought with him from his old house

Getting too sleepy to play...

And, he's out.

We scooped him up and put him in his bed.

Ooh, he just woke up, gotta go. :-)

Wedding in Carmona

2008-08-28T15:16:00.004+02:00

Here are a few pictures from a beautiful wedding we attended this month in the Roman town of Carmona. The ceremony was at the Puerta de Sevilla (above), an old fortress-palace.

Here are the groom, Bruno's friend Alejandro, and his mom waiting for the arrival of his bride, María del Mar.
Once the bride arrived, we climbed several flights of stairs to the ceremony location overlooking the old town and surrounding countryside.
Los novios (the bride and groom) with his parents, two brothers, and their girlfriends after the ceremony.
The ceremony's backdrop Bruno and I with Carmona in the background.

Happy Times, Sad Times

2008-07-16T16:06:00.024+02:00

This summer started off with a great trip home to New England to see family and friends, followed up by an awesome visit here in Spain from my brother Dave.

Sadly, the day after Dave's departure, July 4, we lost Bruno's dad, Rafael. He was only 61 years old.

I'm so glad that I made the trip home and was able to see so many friends and family, because, as I have seen with the passing of my dear father-in-law, life is too short to not take advantage of every moment and be with the ones you love.

Here are some highlights of my time at home and Dave's time here.

Boston clock tower from where the expressway used to be

Celtics NBA Champions!

At the lake

Lynda, Dave, and Yvonne

Brad and Lisa at their house in Salem, NH

Visiting the Stevens-Coolidge Place gardens in North Andover with Marci

My 26-hour trip to NYC to visit Nikki, Scott and Tara. Here's Nikki in Central Park.

Me and Hello Kitty creepily squirting water from her eyes
Lunch with Tara in Manhattan
My best friend, Jess, and me at my parents' house.

Mom's flowers

On to España...

Dave in front of the Torre del Oro (Tower of Gold)

The closest we got to cycling was taking this photo

Dave and a Toro

Me at the Plaza de España

Me with Marta and Ana at our friends Selu and Inma's wedding

Dave and Ana

Me and my sister-in-law, Eli, aka La Guiri and La Gitana (the foreigner and the gypsy)
Dave, Bruno, Fran, and Rubén just before the latter two kidnapped Dave to the discoteca
Bruno and me

Our day trip to Córdoba

At the gardens of the Alcázar de Córdoba

Dave's last night in Sevilla at the Iguanas Ranas Mexican restaurant

For Mom

2008-05-11T09:37:00.004+02:00

Can't wait to see you in a few weeks!

Hiking in the Aracena Hills

2008-04-30T21:14:00.008+02:00

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I spent last Saturday hiking in Aracena, just over an hour from Sevilla, with a great group of people. The excursion was organized through the American Women's Club of Seville by Miriam, a Seville native who joined the society to keep up with her English. I rode to Aracena with her and a couple from California, Diane and Mitch, and their 10 year old son Montag. They've been spending the year here in Seville and learning Spanish. We were joined in Aracena by my friend Kate and her boyfriend Iván, who live in Aracena, as well as by some friends of Miriam's who have their weekend home there and a couple of ladies from the AWC. Kate is also from Boston and is actually a niece of my aunt Lele's brother, so it's really quite a coincidence that we both ended up living in the South of Spain and meeting here for the first time. We all had a great day on the trails around Aracena and Alájar. It was the first time I'd been in the area, and I was not disappointed. Here are some of the photos from my camera and Kate's, too.

(If you click on the bottom right it will take you to the Scrapblog site where you can see the pages in full screen.)

¡Felicidades, Sarita y Pepe!

2008-04-19T11:10:00.004+02:00

Today we're off to our friends Sarah and Pepe's wedding. Sarah was my first friend here in Sevilla, another Boston native married to a Sevillano. Like Bruno and me, they met when Sarah was studying here, spent some time in the States, had a "little wedding" in Marblehead, and now are going in for the big church wedding here in Sevilla. It should be a lot of fun, and I'll be sure to post pics! For now, here's the card I made for them with pics stolen from Sarah's blog.

Feria 2008

2008-04-15T23:03:00.005+02:00

After days and days of rain, the sun finally came out on Saturday. We put on our best gypsy clothes and headed to the April Fair with Eli, Marta, and Ana. Here are a few pictures.

Hybrid Holidays

2008-03-23T19:57:00.008+01:00

Well, this Easter post is long over due, but better late than never.

This year I experienced Seville's Holy Week processions for the first time. It's a little long to explain the whole thing, but basically there are a bunch of processions that parade huge floats with images of Jesus and Mary at different moments of the last week of His life from the churches where they are normally kept to the Cathedral and back. Everyone in Seville seems to have his favorite Virgen and favorite Cristo, and even people who are not classically religious are often very devoted followers of one or more of these images. As a non-Catholic, non-Sevillana, I think the best way to look at it is in a cultural light as to not get caught up in thinking about the many ways that the whole thing is not quite congruent with the true meaning of Easter and Christianity. But I digress... My mother-in-law and I went to see some of the processions on Tuesday evening, and even if you only see it as a cultural manifestation, it's truly majestic the way the images float seemingly effortlessly down the streets. People come from all over the world to see these processions, and the crowds are tremendous. My photos did not come out well in the dark, but here are a couple I've borrowed from the newspaper ABC to give you an idea. The first one is of the costaleros, the guys who carry the float, taking a break and the other is of the Macarena, the most popular of the Vírgenes setting out for the Cathedral.

The most important floats go out on Thursday night, so by Sunday most of Seville is Holy-weeked-out, so there's really no popular Easter Sunday tradition. That's perfect for me, because it means that I can do the local thing and see processions and then celebrate Easter "my way". :-)

We celebrated Easter Sunday American-style here at our place with Bruno's family. I had spent the better part of my vacation week searching for Easter essentials like food coloring and fake grass, so I was really pleased with the results. I don't like ham and am not even sure if the kind of ham we make for Easter can be found here, so I made shrimp- asparagus risotto in my huge paella pan, and it was a big hit with the in-laws. We also had mini-quiches, a braided Easter bread, deviled eggs, spinach salad with strawberries and mandarin oranges, and a pineapple upside-down cake for desert. After dinner we had an Easter egg hunt for Marta and Ana who were very cute looking for the chocolate eggs, though not thoroughly convinced that they had been hidden by a big rabbit. Anyway, I love that I can share my traditions with Bruno's family and especially that they humor me when I want to have "fiestas americanas".

Birthdays, birthdays, birthdays!

2008-03-10T19:22:00.009+01:00

This past Saturday we celebrated the birthday of our nieces, Marta and Ana, who turned 5 and 2 on the 6th of March. Same birthday, 3 years apart, incredible, right? They were so cute dressed alike! (Dressing children of different ages in the same outfit for special occasions or Sunday strolls is pretty typical here in Spain.) About eight of Marta's preschool friends also came to the party, so it was hard to get a good picture with all the running around. Of course, everyone had a good time and ate lots of princess cake. :-)

The other Pisces in the family, my father-in-law Rafael and I, celebrated our birthdays on the 25th and the 27th of February. For mine, Bruno and I went to our favorite Mexican restaurant, but at that point Bruno was coming down with the flu, so it was a quiet evening followed by a long weekend with beautiful weather that we couldn't enjoy because poor Bruno was sick in bed the whole time. Oh well, summer is right around the corner, and there will be plenty of opportunity to enjoy Sevilla's nightlife.

I felt really blessed on my birthday to hear from so many family and friends, so thanks to everyone who remembered me. My dear friend Sarah (another Pisces birthday girl!) included a special announcement in her greeting: she and her partner Marc are expecting a baby boy in June! Here is one of my favorite photos of the two of them taken back in 1999, the year they met. Boy, does time fly! I hope to be able to get up to Germany some time this year to visit with them and their little one. How exciting! Congratulations, Sarah and Marc!!!

Verano Azul en Febrero

2008-02-10T20:23:00.001+01:00

We spent the weekend in Nerja, a white village on the Mediterranean Coast which was the setting of a very popular TV series called Verano Azul (Blue Summer). My Aunt Sharon and Uncle Mike had recommended Nerja to us after having been there this past fall, and we were not disappointed. Though it's not quite beach season here yet, it was great weather for strolling along the beach and the town center.

View from the "Balcony of Europe"

Bruno and King Alfonso XII

The Balcony of Europe from Calahonda Beach
A little house built into the side of the cliff at Calahonda Beach
Just outside the town are the Caves of Nerja, which were also well worth the visit. Here is a photo I've borrowed from the internet, as mine simply didn't do the place justice. It's really breathtaking.
A little taste of "blue summer" in February was definitely good for the spirit!

November in Seville

2007-12-02T13:36:00.000+01:00

The highlight of November was a visit from my Aunt Sharon and Uncle Mike on the last legs of their six-week road trip through France and Spain. Once again, we lucked out with the weather, so we were able to enjoy a few sunny, mild November days together here in Seville. Here are a couple of pictures from the Plaza de España. We also visited the Reales Alcázares, my favorite tourist spot in the city and, of course, stopped in to the Alfonso XIII Hotel for delicious (and strong!) apple Martinis.

Bruno, unfortunately, was working for most of the time that Sharon and Mike were here, but we managed to get him out to dinner one night at our favorite Mexican place called Iguanas Ranas. Here's proof that Bruno was actually seen somewhere other than our house or his office.

I've really enjoyed being able to share my new hometown with so many family members over the past few months. Living far from home makes seeing family far less frequent, but the time that I've spent with my family visiting here has been an opportunity to go beyond holiday party catching up and chit-chat, a chance to really get to know one another on an adult level. It's been a great experience.

After Mike and Sharon's visit, November became a month all about work. Bruno's been incredibly busy, and I have, too. So much for working part-time! I have had to turn down work because my schedule is at full capacity. I am really thankful to have had such good luck in finding work here. I am still enjoying my job at the school as well as giving private English lessons to business people and to children. My schedule is a bit hectic, but it's a good opportunity for me to get to know different parts of the city and to build my resumé.

The end of November we celebrated Thanksgiving here at our place with Bruno's brother and family. Unfortunately the week of Thanksgiving we also lost Bruno's maternal grandmother Araceli to a heart attack, so our celebration was bitter-sweet. We all gave thanks for our health and for being together as well as for the fact that Araceli lived a long, healthy life and passed quickly and peacefully. She raised 10 children in post-Civil War Spain, one of the most difficult times in Spanish history, and lived to be 91 years old. She loved to take walks and to tell stories about her life. She was a strong believer in God, and I have no doubt that she is with Him now. In fact, on the way from the funeral home to her mass, there was a spectacular rainbow, and I am sure that this was her sign to us that she was alright.

Anyway, our Thankgiving was a success, and this weekend we had another little dinner party with some friends to decorate our Christmas tree. Lots of fun. Amidst all of my hostess duties, I forgot to take pictures both at Thanksgiving and at our Tree party, but here's a shot of the finished product (and me with my new haircut). What do you think?
Missing family events is one of the big downsides of living overseas, so I wanted to send out a "Congratulations" to my cousin Rebecca and her husband Erich who were married in October and to my uncle Jim and his wife Marie who were married last weekend.

Another congratulations to my cousin Sara who celebrated her Bat Mitzvah earlier this month and to my brother Dave who turned 25 this week!

Sara and my dad at her Bat Mitzvah. I love her gorgeous red hair!
Dave and his lovely girlfriend Kaitlin at Rebecca and Erich's wedding
¡Felicidades a todos! Congratulations to all!

Part V: Last days in Sevilla

2007-11-12T11:56:00.000+01:00

Once we were back from our weekend excursion, the rest of the time really went by fast. The troops took a day trip to Portugal, we visited Bruno's family camp, and went to Carmona to see Bruno's brother's family. Here's a few miscellaneous photos of the last days.

Lele and Mom at Sagres, Portugal

Lele and her brother's niece, Kate, in Aracena (a town Northwest of Sevilla). Small world!

En el campo

Dinner in San Jerónimo (our neighborhood)

On the way to Pablo and Eli's in Carmona

Marta and Ana opening with some presents from the USA

Dad trying out Pablo's bike

Mom, Salud, and Lele at Pablo and Eli's house

Me and my sister-in-law Eli
After a nice lunch in Carmona with the whole family, it was time to go to the airport. ¡Cómo vuela el tiempo! Time flies!

Part IV: Road Trip (Granada)

2007-11-11T20:13:00.000+01:00

Granada
The last stop on our road trip was Granada for a visit to the Generalife gardens of the Moorish palace the Alhambra.

Exhausted from all the walking, we got dinner at a little Italian place by our hotel, had a nightcap at the bar next door, and crashed for the night. The next morning we were "on the road again" back to Sevilla.

Part IV: Road Trip (Costa del Sol)

2007-11-11T18:50:00.000+01:00

Puerto Banús

From Gibraltar, we traveled East to the Costa del Sol. Our first stop was Puerto Banús, the harbor area of the very ritzy town of Marbella.

My dad's "next" car
After a drink at a little pub, we carried on to Torremolinos where we spent the night.

Torremolinos
We spent Sunday morning wandering around the boardwalk shops and along the beach in Torremolinos.

Richard pointing out the "Wei" not taken

Part IV: Road Trip (Gibraltar)

2007-11-11T15:33:00.000+01:00

At long last the next installment of my parents' visit: our weekend road trip to Gibraltar, the Costa del Sol, and Granada.

Gibraltar
Seeing the rock and the monkeys at Gibraltar was top on my dad's list, so we rented a car and headed South. I think we were all amazed at just how beautiful it was (and how big the monkeys were)! It was a perfectly clear day, and the Atlas mountains across the Strait of Gibraltar looked so close that Bruno couldn't believe we were actually seeing the North of Africa.

A view of "the Rock" from the Spanish side of the border

After walking across the border, it was just like being in England (but with sun!): a "bobby" directing traffic, red telephone booths, and (best of all) signs in English!
We managed to avoid any problems with the infamously agressive monkeys, though Richard did get chased by one for his ice cream.

The group by the ruins of an old fortress

Los monos

Part III: Sevilla with Salud

2007-10-15T16:29:00.000+02:00

Thursday morning while I worked, my mother-in-law, Salud, accompanied my family to the lovely Reales Alcázares, a Moorish fortress and palace, now the official residence of the Royal Family when they visit Sevilla.

Mom and Rick
Lele, Mom, and Salud in the gardens

Wei Dao praying? No, just looking into a grate.
Checking out the intricate carvings and tile work

Rick with the old city walls
Lunch at a popular tapas bar

Part II: First days in Sevilla

2007-10-14T12:12:00.000+02:00

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Tuesday afternoon we all flew together to Sevilla and were greeted at the airport by Bruno and his parents, Rafael and Salud. Once home, we enjoyed a typical Andalusian lunch prepared by Salud of tortilla de patatas, espinacas con garbanzos, and gazpacho. Yum! As it was pouring rain and everyone was a bit tired, we spent the evening at home relaxing and talking over a couple of bottles of Spanish wine.

Wednesday morning we headed downtown for a little sight-seeing and shopping, and despite the ominous looking clouds, we stayed dry! Here are my "troops" in front of my house (the arrow on the map above).

At the Torre del Oro on the Río Guadalquivir (or as Rick would call it, "the Guadal-quiver River")
Here's a few more good shots of the troops outside the Alfonso XIII Hotel.

After lunch at every American's favorite pub, Flaherty's, and a little more shopping, we headed home to get ready for an evening of flamenco at Casa Carmen.

Rafael, one of our two chauffeurs for the evening, at the window.
Los artistas at Casa Carmen were great, especially the singer. ¡Olé!
After the show, we went back to our neighborhood, San Jerónimo and stopped off for a quick beer with Rafael at the bar across the street. Here are the consuegros with their Cruzcampos.

¡Salud!

Mom, Dad, Lele, and Rick in Spain

2007-10-13T12:22:00.000+02:00

Part I: Barcelona

We've just had a great two-week visit from my parents, Laurie and Guy, and my aunt and uncle, Lele and Rick. We had a lot of laughs "marching" around the Iberian Peninsula, learning a little Spanish and "Portuguese" and, of course, seeing many monuments and famous places "illuminated at night". Here are some of the many highlights.

We all met in Barcelona on the 30th of September and found our hotel, Ally's Guesthouse, a really cute place in L'Eixample district of the city. Click here for a satelite view of where we stayed. The B&B is in the same building as the Clinica Figarola. The first evening we went to see the Font Màgic, the "Magic Fountain" at the foot of the Montjuïc hill. It's like fireworks but with water, all set to music. Spectacular.
Rick and Lele a.k.a Wei Dao and the Mrs. at the Magic Fountain

The next morning we walked from the hotel to the Sagrada Familia church, the architect Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece.
From the Sagrada Familia we hopped on the Bus Turistic and hopped off at the Park Güell, another of Gaudí's creations.
Dad and I with a dragon at the entrance of the park
From the Park Güell, we hopped back on the bus and rode through the Montjuïc area, home to the 1992 Olympics, and then down to the waterfront.

From the harbor we walked up the Rambla and headed back to the B&B. The next morning we took a little walk around the neighborhood, snapping a couple of photos of La Pedrera, another of Gaudí's famous buildings, and stopping in at some of the ultra-posh shops on the Passeig de Gracia, the Rodeo Drive of Barcelona.

That afternoon we said "adéu" to Barcelona and "hola" to Sevilla...

Birthday Bash at Babilonia

2007-09-16T18:11:00.000+02:00

Saturday night was our friends Carlos and Rocío's birthday celebration at "Babilonia". It was our first time out in forever, and it was a lot of fun. Not getting in until 5 (and we were the first to leave!) made for a very lazy Sunday, though! I don't know how our friends do it every weeekend!

Carlos, Fran, and Julia at Rubén's house before going out

Bruno and I at Babilonia

Los chicos (Rubén, Carlos, Bruno)

Las chicas (Me, Rocío, Julia)

Carlos's "birthday present": a photo to help in his online dating efforts!

¡Feliz cumpleaños, chicos! Feliz cumpleaños, too, to my best friend from home Jess. I miss you!

Algarve

2007-08-29T18:52:00.000+02:00

We just got back to Sevilla after a few days of sun, sand, and surf in the spectacular Algarve region of Portugal. Here's a link to the Google Map of the area we visited. Our hotel, the Romantik Natur (cheesy name, I know) is between the towns of Luz and Burgau and looks more like a housing development than a hotel. Here is a picture of our building. Our was the third balcony on the right.
The view from our balcony
After checking in on Sunday, we headed to Praia da Luz to check out the beach and the town. Very pretty but (as you can see in the photos) quite crowded.

Monday we headed to Sagres, the most South-western point in Europe, once believed to be the end of the Earth. Understandable.

After Sagres we decided to drive up the coast and see what we could find. We ended up at one of the most beautiful beaches we'd ever seen in a little town called Carrapateira. Absolutely pristine: soft sand, crystal clear water, very quiet. The photos do not begin to describe how beautiful this place is, but at least it gives a taste.

That evening we had our anniversary dinner at the Fortaleza da Luz Restaurant. We lucked out with a table overlooking the beach. Good food, great ambiance.
The next day we headed back to Carrapateira and explored the rocks and even found a cool cave.
Our holidays proved to be just what we needed: a romantic escape to a natural wonderland.

Visitors!

2007-06-30T22:52:00.000+02:00

The last couple of weeks have been a lot of fun, as we've had back-to-back visits from home. First, my friend/former student Marci and her sister Kim were in town for a few days on the tail end of their 3 week European backpacking adventure. Here we are at the gardens of the Reales Alcázares (above) and the Plaza de España (below).
Marci and Kim moved on to London, and my Aunt Dot and Uncle John arrived a few days later. They've been traveling around Europe since May and spent a week with us here in Sevilla. Here is a link to their travel blog. I had a lot of fun showing them around the city, though I learned I may have to take it a bit easier on the walking tours! After walking straight across the city one day from the Macarena Basilica to the María Luisa Park, we were all pretty exhausted!
One of the highlights from Dot and John's visit was an evening of flamenco music and dance at Casa Carmen, a tablao (flamenco club) that Bruno has been doing advertising work for. It has good atmosphere and is a lot less touristic than some of the other tablaos in Seville, i.e. there were no tourist buses emptying into the place. We sampled a pitcher of the famous Agua de Sevilla, a delicious mix of pineapple juice, cava (Spanish sparkling wine), a splash of whiskey, and a splash of cognac, topped off with whipped cream. Yum!
After the show we headed across the river to Triana for pescaíto frito (fried fish) at the Taberna Miami. Here is the famous Puente de Triana iluminated and John, Salud, and Dot as we crossed to the neighborhood with the most duende in Sevilla. (Though Bruno and now live in San Jerónimo, my heart will always have a special place for Triana.)

While Bruno took a well-deserved Sunday siesta, Dot, John, and I went to the campo with Salud, her sister Araceli, and Araceli's daughter Macarena. Here we are with sombreros to protect us from the Andalusian sun.

Here are a couple of photos at La Choza restaurant where Dot and John treated us to a great dinner. What nice guests!

Last Friday was Dot and John's last day in Seville, and after visiting Exclama! (Bruno's company), we all took a little siesta before getting to know Sevilla de noche (Sevilla at night) which Dot correctly appraised as even more beautiful than during the day. Before going to a concert at the gardens of the Reales Alcázares, we stopped for a drink at the open-air bar of the Alfonso XIII Hotel. Here we are: aren't we posh?
From there we went to the concert. It was a lovely evening, and the combination of fragrant jasmine, the warm summer breeze, and renaissance music in the gardens of this medieval Moorish palace transported us to another time. Really magical. Here we are in the gardens before the concert.

After the concert, Salud led us through the tiny, quiet streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz to the Cathedral, majestically iluminated.
We rounded out the evening with a delicious ice-cream at the Heladería Rayas, known and loved by all Sevillano ice-cream aficionados. The perfect ending to a perfect evening. I only hope that my visitors have enjoyed their time here as much as I have and that they leave Sevilla understanding why I love it so much here.