Aranjuez Week 2

It’s hard to believe that we have already spent two weeks in Spain; we have done and seen so much in our short time here and the next two weeks are going to be just as eventful, I’m sure!

This last week, we spent a lot of time getting to know each other and Aranjuez better. We participated in a lot of the local festivities, thanks to el Festival de San Fernando, a seven-day long celebration here in town. There were various activities for each day of the festival, including concerts, dances, bullfights, fireworks, and so much more! We tried to partake in as many events as possible, but there was so much going on that we just couldn’t! Most of us did, however, get to see our first authentic, Spanish bullfight. It was so interesting to be a part of such a huge event; the Plaza de Toros was filled to the max with spectators! There were six bulls in total—which meant six bullfighters, each of whom were very talented, and muy guapo if I do say so myself! There were various elements that made up each bullfight as well—separate rolls that had specific orders and purposes. At the end of the fight, when the bull was finally defeated, the crowd would shout and cheer, and wave their handkerchiefs at the torero if they liked his performance; he would then walk all around the plaza as his fans showered him with flowers and other tokens…it was amazing!!!

Unfortunately, we did not get to do as much as we wanted because it has been raining so much here; I was told that it hasn’t rained this much in twenty years…I am so glad we brought the Indiana weather with us…not. Still, though, I think I can speak for all of us when I say we are having a blast!

Lately, I have been spending more time with my family. They are a very interesting group of people; I am learning a lot from them and having fun too! This past weekend, some of their cousins came into visit from Asturias, a northern region of Spain. They actually taught me a little regional tradition in which you hold a bottle of cidra (basically, alcoholic apple juice) from about a yard away from the glass, pour a little amount, and pass it to someone else…then, that person returns the favor…it was really cool to be a part of such a tradition!

Overall, it has been an exciting week, and there is only more to come! This week, we will embark on La Ruta de Don Quijote and enjoy another extended weekend; I can’t wait!!!

Until next time, ¡hasta luego!