I'm like a bird

Tonight we went out for our usual once a week beer (or 2 or 3 times a week, but who's counting). We went downtown to one of our favorite bars and met up with some students for another school. It was cool to mingle with some new people (although I did almost get into a fight with a guy,long story) and drink some delicious Guinness.

About half-way through the night a band started to play. There some Sheryl Crow, some Jason Mraz and then they busted out an old school tune from my high school days. "I'm like a bird" by Nelly Furtado. I remember sitting alone in my room in high school daydreaming about what my life would be like when I grew up. I wanted to travel, meet amazing people and just fly away from the tiny little town I was in. 14 years later, I think I think the 16 year old version of me would be pretty proud.

There are still many places I want to see and many things I want to do. I think what motivates me now is the same driving force that fueled my daydreams as a teenager. I want to be free, uncontained...like a bird.

In my red high heels

I was feeling inspired this morning. Its Friday, it's sunny (even though its freezing outside) and I have the whole weekend ahead. It was time to break out my red heels.

I have had them tucked away in the back of my closet since I got here in July and for some reason this morning I felt like it was time. I think it is because I feel like I'm getting my mojo back. Feeling sexy in Spain probably has something to do with it.

I paired my fabulous shoes with a new black dress and a matching belt. I have to say I'm feeling fierce. I think this Friday-day is going to lead to a fun Friday night. I'll keep you posted ;)

The PPD has gotten me thinking...

Spanish food coma

I woke up this morning and was still in a Spanish food coma from last night, but I'm on vacation so that didn't stop me. Susan and I went to breakfast and then enjoyed a nice stroll around the park before our meeting. It is amazing how well maintained all of the historic landmarks are. The park had a beautiful monument overlooking a man-made lake. There were dogs playing in the park. It was quite picturesque. After our stroll we had our meeting and then shared lunch with our project sponsors. It was more sangria and tapas but I was not complaining. It was a wonderful meal and it was nice to learn from people that are actually working in the real world of hospitality. Alas, it had to end and we went to the airport and said goodbye to Madrid. What a great 3 days, I think I might have to come back ;)

Spain...the land of collective karoke

Close your eyes. Imagine you are in your favorite dive bar. Imagine that all that is playing on the jukebox is the awesome-st of 80s pop hits. Imagine a group of girls in the corner of the bar singing with their eyes closed and dancing like crazy. Now image that those girls are singing in Spanish. Now multiply them by 100. Now add in some Spanish boys. This was my night last night.

Best thing about Spain....everyone sings and dances like no one is watching. It is like a collective culture phenomena. They all know every single word and they throw their hands in the air and go for it. I was smiling from ear to ear and enjoying every minute of it.

Now keep in mind that this club was after the 3 hour dinner we had where we tasted the most amazing tapas and drank A LOT of wine. We are so lucky to have our very own Madrid native to show us around. Now it is off to breakfast and the hop-on-hop-off tour bus to see the sites. I can't wait to see what this day brings ;)

Sexy in Spain

I have only been in Spain for a few hours but I know one thing. I feel sexy in Spain ;). As soon as we checked into the hotel we decided to take a walk and the energy of this city is amazing. I can't help it. I feel my womanly power overwhelming me and I have to let it out. Dinner is in a couple of hours and I am already enjoying my complimentary wine in my room. Let's see where tonight and life leads me. Viva la España!

If you meet me halfway...

Thank goodness it's Friday. Even though it was a long day of classes there were some good moments. Of course, the Pizza and Beer Friday that is observed at lunch by most of our class was a plus. I was super observant and had 2 beers ;). After class the girls and I went shopping and bought snacks and wine for the evening. Since it is minus 14 degrees celsius we decided it was best to stay in. Once we got up to room 90, Charlotte started cooking potatoes and Cathy and I put out the snacks. It was great just sitting around and telling stories. One of our companions was a former flight attendant who had some hilarious stories about passengers and salacious activities that occurred in business class. At one point I tasted some delicious Parmesan that our friend brought back from Milan. I immediately exclaimed that I wanted to make the cheese my boyfriend and my French friend took me literally. It was hilarious. Sometimes it is just better to stay in enjoy great times with friends. As we were cleaning up we started singing this song for some reason. I think Fergie and I are having a thing this week.