Its been quite a ride here during the last month. I can't believe I have survived the past six months.
I feel like I am non-stop learning music (which is a joy, and a thrill) but on top of that traveling around to see the world.
Am I complaining? Not really. Am I bragging? Not trying to- but I realize that I am lucky to be where I am. Don't get me wrong, I do sacrifice a lot to be able to do this, but I am trying hard to appreciate every moment. (Even the bad ones, because lets be honest... there are bad ones too!)
So I did a similar trip to this five years ago. Wow. Time flies fast. Anyway, and I am very happy to confess that this time I feel much more like a "seasoned traveler." By that I mean that I am fluent now in French (which helps immensely with other languages!) and made it out of Barcelona with my bag!! Yay! It doesn't mean though that I don't make mistakes. I have a pretty good sense of direction, but when someone tells you in another language- go fifty meters, turn left at the pharmacy, go another fifty meters and its in front of the church... sometimes you get lost.
I will say, having spent a lot of time alone in the past month, I miss speaking in English. I miss the feeling of being completely understood and understand every nuance. I got to meet up with a close friend for three days and I was so overwhelmed that I could speak quickly, that I think I chatted her ear off! It was really nice, but now that she is gone, I miss having someone. Again, I am not complaining, but it was nice to have someone around that you knew and had a history with.
All that to be said, I am loving the new friends that I am making, trying new foods, and learning more about the languages I sing in. I love the cultural exchanges. I find myself having more in depth conversations with people in Italian than I ever thought was possible. My Spanish needs some work, but I will definitely be working on that!
Most memorable moments so far....
1. Singing for Natalie Dessay and Michel Plasson
2. Running on the beach in Barcelona
3. Eating my heart out in Irun, Spain
4. Watching the world cup in Madrid, with two Belgians, A Mexican, and two Koreans at an Irish Pub
5. Having the best meal of my life in Verona
Oh- did I mention? I am also training for a half marathon while here in Europe. I started back when I was in Vermont to train for it. Its been great because it allows me to eat what I want, and keeps me in shape, all while having a goal!
Eyes on the Prize!
Have a great evening.
