Nerja, Spain

This past weekend marks one of the many (independent) trips that we shall encounter over the next coming months, and our first excursion was to Nerja, Spain. Nerja is located along the Costa del Sol, in the province of Málaga. Located only two hours south of Granada, we were beach ready and lookin' to soak up the sun. It was a quick trip, marked by a much needed sunburn.  We arrived Friday morning and were welcomed to Hostal Azahara, a small hostal that was a ten minute walk to the Mediterranean and city center.  The weather was beautiful, Floridaesque, with a salty breeze and palm trees as decor.  It is a tourist city, many of which are retired Brits or young, vacationing families and or honeymooners.  Our trip comprised of beach bummin', good eatin', and cave tourin'.  Nerja is famous for La Cueva de Nerja (Caves of Nerja), stretching for almost 5 km, they are a main attraction in Spain.  The cave is divided into two main parts, one of which is used as a natural amphitheater, the other located in the upper gallery is not available for public viewing.  It was a side adventure that ended with cerveza and the sunset. This was Saturday evening, after a relaxing day at the beach.  Sunday was our day of departure, but not until 5 p.m., so again, we spent our day relaxing by the beach with brief attempts of entrance into the Mediterranean Sea, but the freezing temperature allowed for only knee deep depths. We left satisfied and a wee bit tanner than before, and began conversations of our next trip to Barcelona!!!

                                              

                                  Niña in the park 

Las Cuevas 

T

Pathway to the beach 

He was such a charmer 

Three little birdies' beds

So many kitties 

As he waited patiently for his owner... 

He discovered any easy way to get a better view 

Sunset and Cerveza 

peep the pink panties 

Viajes!!

To travel is a gift indeed, a luxury that should be savored by all.  Fortunately, our location in Europe has provided many opportunities for us to travel on a somewhat inexpensive budget.  We have booked a trip for almost every weekend following today... Nerja, Barcelona, Sevilla, Valencia, Portugal, Canary Islands, and possibly a few others. This week has flown by, and I am beginning to think that the coming weeks will  come and go right in front of my eyes, but hey, isn't the expression "Time flys by when you are having fun?" I yet again fought a horrendous cold that left me bitter and angry, all were to avoid entering into my path of coughs and snotty nose. I remained indoors last weekend, and sullenly watched Alex as she primped and prepped for the weekends festivities.  I spent my time reading, and finishing the book that Momma sent to me, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.  It was a thrilling tale of murder and revenge, and helped in distracting me from the uncomfortable feelings of sickness.  As the weekend trailed away and the week entered, I began to feel much better, the medicine definitely helped.  I have forgotten to mention that I  had my first encounter with Granada's healthcare last week, it has proven to be successful. They have me prescribed to ibuprofeno, can't forget the "o," that you dissolve into water. YUCK! It is an awful menta flavored drink that makes me squeamish and gag each time I swallow. Thankfully, I am no longer in need of such an unpleasant mixture.

The school days are quick, maybe the in between naps help too? It is already Thursday, and tomorrow we leave for Nerja, Spain! It was a spontaneous decision that we settled on yesterday afternoon after discovering the cheap price for transportation and a quaint hostal by the name of Azahara, which Dad informed me means "rose." I shall report back to you folks on the adventures I discover ...

Hostal Azahara: stolen from the web

El Rey de la Casa

The King's Castle, it's a wiggle of a squeeze to sit in their comfortably 

Yes, I wear Burberry 

The epitome of lounging, letting it all hang out.

Momma

As we all know, yesterday was valentine's day, the most overrated holiday of all time, but somehow this year managed to be the best yet! With a six hour time difference, I wake early enough before school to check my email/facebook, 3 a.m. Louisville time, and to my surprise I was greeted by a wonderfully lovely message from my darling Chris, it was a fantastic way to start my day, knowing how much someone loves me even when we are miles apart.  Granada swarmed with red, white, and pink, and couples to match... barf. On my way home from school, I decided to stop by the local supermarket and purchase a chocolate con leche candy bar. I ate the entire thing, with a little help from Alex. My valentine's day was complete, or so I thought.  This morning I arrived home, after class, around 11:30 and was again greeted by a wonderful surprise! The postwoman turned to me, assuming I was American, and said "Natalia?" "Sí," I gleefully replied, and she handed me a nice sized package.  I knew immediately it was from good ole' momma, and I smiled from ear to ear.  I secretly wished it had clothes inside, but I was being greedy. I showed momma Luz and she was happy to know that I have such a wonderful Mother at home, and wanted me to send her besos from Spain.  She knew how happy I was and made me promise not to cry, and I surprisingly succeeded. Inside I discovered the Goodfellas movie, a book, candy, a note and my necklace from Leila, and a note from momma with a picture of Scoobs and Santa! It was wonderful.  I do have the most generous, thoughtful Momma anyone could ask for.  I am always amazed at the kind deeds she does for others, and the concern she has for not only myself, but my friends as well.  She has taught me in this way for many years, and I see it coming to life, as I catch myself doing and or saying things that I have heard or seen her say in the past.  I would be mortified to have strolled with her in public during my younger, much more immature years, but today I can proudly hold her hand as we walk into Oxmoor Mall.  I'll laugh with her rather than at her as she does the "twist" or "bump" on the dance floor.  I can come to her with tears and laughter, knowing that we share many traits and that she is the only person  I can truly go to in times of despair.  My mom has taught me many things of the years, whether conscious or not, and I am so appreciative for her warmth and kindness.  I love you Momma, thanks for always being there for me.

Alhambra

Palacio de Carlos V

Well hey down there! 

Ancient Arab baths 

Palacio de Carlos V 

Architecture 

Patio de Arrayanes 

Seven heavens 

Patio de la Acequia