Just got back from a freezing cold walk in Villa, my town here. In case you're wondering, it's a great way to wake up and clear your mind all at the same time. I wandered through a barren courtyard of the town's castillo, glanced at pieces of beautifully shattered glass underneath the lamps of a nearby park, spotted a new cafe past the bars and children's centers, and was overcome by a feeling of yearning to learn and explore while I'm here. This time, I wish I had my camera. There were some sights today that I apparently felt mattered. While they were small, I felt it in my gut that they were important. It humbled me to think that I really don't know anything about this country, this city, this town. 

It's funny how much you reveal when you try to honestly explain the trip to another person. For me, that person was Mike, who came in with a group of 20 from Elon who were finishing up their winter term in Spain with a trip to the capital. He could tell I wasn't thrilled with the experience and trying to explain to him why, I found myself explaining the pressure we are putting on ourselves to constantly have that "amazing experience". We aren't visiting for 3 weeks; we are living here. It's different. He was highly discouraged that making Spanish friends is difficult and was seemingly determined to break that stereotype when and if he comes to Madrid for the semester. I guess my theory is if it happens, it happens. I will try, but trying too hard could seem incredibly superficial. I just want to be happy with the friends I have. One thing I mentioned many times was that I believe that it can only get better for me here. There is nothing superficial about that statement.

On a lighter, more pulsing beat note, a group of us experienced the discoteca legend known as El Kapital last night. While the entrance fee was an expense I'd rather not disclose (we thought we were getting in free but apparently "stupid Americans" don't make the cut), it was truly epic. The foundation of the place was a techno heaven, complete with incredible lights, a cold air sprayer thing out of the ceiling (which made me feel like Marlyn Monroe with her flowing dress during song changes) and burlesque techno hotties on stage. Another dance floor featured the purely American sounds of 50 Cent, Jay-Z and others. Of course that was my dance floor to own and Josue's new dancing classroom, but we won't go there. Reggaeton was another floor up, followed by a mini-movie theater for those simply seeking a make-out session or a place to sleep. The top floor was a unbelievably classy terrace with pillowed seats surrounding the fountain with palms in the middle and a bartender who made our free drink worth it. All in all, a fantastic night that should have ended with churros and chocolate at 7:30 AM (when we got home) but didn't because it was Sunday and who the hell opens their cafe on a Sunday morning for loud and obnoxious 20-somethings? If you find out, let me know.

Tomorrow classes begin. I don't have a notebook to write in. I'm petrified that the amount of work will obliterate any hopes of traveling in the future. I hope we all make friends.