¡Soy una Madrileña!

As life in Madrid settles into a routine, I'm beginning to feel as though I'm actually a part of my surroundings, instead of a complete tourista or a part of one of my own daydreams. We've now figured out the metro, and experienced each of our classes, which seem like they'll be very interesting. With each day, I learn more about Spain and its culture, as well as the city of Madrid.

Small things seem to trip us up most frequently as we try to explore and adjust to Madrid. For example, Emily and I often forget that all of the stores are closed from 2-5:30 or so, for afternoon siesta. As much as we're enjoying the built-in nap in our schedule, it can be frustrating when we want to grab groceries on the way home from classes.

Last Sunday, on our way to El Rastro, we had another adventure when the metro line we were on suddenly closed down between two stops without explanation. Three bus lines and another metro trip later, we made it to our destination. Not only are there cultural differences, but we also have the experience of living in an urban center for the first time. I've definitely gained some street smarts here in Madrid.
Our trip to El Rastro was great. It's the largest marketplace in Europe, and certainly lives up to its reputation. The booths and shops seemed to go on and on. We got some great souvenir ideas, and also managed to have some conversations with Spaniards. We also got our first authentic lunch at a Spanish cafe, including una bocadilla y copa (a cheap combination of a sub sandwich and beer).

Another adventure occurred when Isabel took us out for an evening of shopping and showing us around the neighborhood. We first went to a fruit market. The fresh fruit in Spain is remarkably cheap, and we eat a piece or two as part of each meal. It's usually given as dessert at dinnertime. Isabel, by the way, is an excellent cook, and we've certainly been enjoying our dinners. After visiting a few other shops, we headed over to Isabel's other daughter's house. Her granddaughter had just gotten a haircut, and is absolutely adorable. Once again, the family was fantastically friendly, and very helpful as we tried to introduce ourselves properly in Spanish.

Today is Thursday, and we're done with our first week of classes. Things are going very well, and I feel as though I'm absorbing more from classes and life in general than ever before. I'm taking an Ethics course and a Philosophy course to finish up my gen eds, and I'm enjoying each. They're very thought-provoking, and I'm encouraged by how much I can understand, even in my classes taught in Spanish. After we got home from school today, Isabel made us cafe con leche (a popular drink over here that's most like our lattes), and we sat for over an hour discussing classes, the sights of Madrid and Spain, and the news with her. It's amazing how quickly my confidence in the Spanish language is growing. Overall, I couldn't be happier with what I'm learning and experiencing. I can't wait to see how the rest of the semester unfolds as I continue to learn the history, culture, and language of these welcoming people.