Knock Knock- Who’s There?- Opportunity!
The One
Nothing can explain the way I feel when I see the golden sun sweep over the heavy grape vines of October in California’s central coast. There aren’t words poetic enough to explain the tranquil beauty of the gorgeous Pacific waves crashing on our shores. No foreign place will ever make my heart sing the way it does when I wrap my arms around my best friend in our home town. So why am I getting on a jet plane in 17 days? More importantly, why are all my belongings in a suitcase?
Because I am moving to Madrid, Espana! (Spain, for all my white peeps out there) Why? Why not? I’ve never been an English teacher before. I’ve never lived in a city of 4 million people. I’ve never lived in a country where English was not the first language. I can guarantee I will learn something new every single day. I know it won’t be easy- I am prepared for it to be uncomfortable at first. I know there will be days when I want to curl up into a ball and hide in my flat and watch English television all day. I also know that I will be smarter and stronger at the end of this experience. Like my old friend Winston Churchill said “To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often”. (Not that perfection is what I am expecting of this experience, cause that would just be boring.)
When I close my eyes, I see the cobblestone streets of Madrid- I see people walking their dogs in the morning and rolling their shop doors shut in the afternoons for siesta, I see elderly couples holding hands in Retiro Park, and I see myself breaking my ankle wearing Euro shoes. (Seriously, how DO they do it?) I want that to be my reality, except for the ankle breaking thing.
So to all my dear friends and family on the Central Coast, THANK YOU for the hugely warm welcome home- I hope to return the favor to each one of you in my new home- Madrid! (okay, not EVERYONE is invited to Madrid, just the special people.) I know I’ve been slacking on the blog, but I kinda have been planning a trans continental move… so gimme a break. I promise many life updates and to keep the travel bug alive and well.
Wish me luck!
We’ll come and visit whether you like it or not! Have fun! – j
well bring the vino
Congrats! What a fantastic change! Madrid is so upbeat, so cosmopolitan and accepting – you’ll have a kick-ass time! Looking forward to your updates. And – enjoy the transition!
thanks so much Lena- I love Madrid! Its full of life!
Cool – I shall visit – been wanting to for a while – just not made it yet.
Can’t wait to see you on my turf! It’s just an overnight bus away… awesome!
Yay!!! I am so flipping excited for you. And me, cause I’m totally coming to visit. Wishing you the best!! xx
and THANK YOU so much woman for all your help! I can’t wait to host you in Madrid!
Going to miss you, although it seems I see and talk to you more via skype when you are traveling than I do in person when you are here. I look forward to hearing all about your new life and all the exciting, funny, ordinary, extraordinary experiences you will undoubtedly have. I love you much.
I know, Mom! Not havin a car really makes getting to visit people difficult… BUT I will be seeing much of you before and on thanksgiving!!! PS. CAn i request some English Muffin bread to pack with me??
Good luck on the move! I just did the same move from California to Madrid 3 months ago. You will love it!
Thanks Samantha! I am so glad you came across this blog- if you’re up for it, I’d love to have a meet up once I am living in the city. Where in Madrid do you live?
That is so cool! We look forward to hearing your updates. Take care and be safe. Is it up in the air how long you plan on staying?
hey Aunt Donna! thanks for chiming in~ I am signing a one year contract, so at least 365 days in one place! Which is saying something for me
xoxo
Brandy, Best wishes to you on your move. There is a beautiful world out there just waiting to embrace you. You have a wonderful, adventurous spirit which invites life experiences. I will continue to look forward to your posts. They always bring a smile. Que Sera…..
Have a great time in Madrid.. Have enjoyed following you on your travels. Looking forward to hearing of your further adventures (and remember there is a couch in Barbados with your name on it if you ever head this way.. Sarah/Sunniebgi (formally coconutcourtbgi.
WAY cool! Any chance you could share your mom’s English muffin bread recipe here before you go?
Be safe, and HAVE FUN!
Welcome to Europe! Have a great time in Madrid!
Love from me and the kids,
Eduarda