Albaycin

Friday the fourth, and fighting this earnnoying ear ache... just 

Las Bolsas 

when you think the sniffles have left, they appear in your ear.  "Que?" now resonates in one ear and out to the public's, pero está bien. <-- These phrases are set to prepare you fellow readers for my return, when I only speak español.  The sniffles and sneezes have kept me indoors away from all activities outside our scheduled program, providing me with too much time to think.  My thoughts range, bueno y malo, longing for the attention I receive in the states... I am reminded that my trip has only just begun and adjustments are difficult, so many days and splendors I have yet to encounter in spoiled excitement.  One, which I have already greeted, and with quite awe and delight I might add... The Albaycin (pronounced Al-by-scene). ¡Qué bonito! You know when you find yourself in a certain situation where the atmosphere and scenery is too beautiful to capture, even with that fabulous expensive camera your family just recently purchased for you for your 21st birthday? ... Well I sure found mine, the Albaycin.  To those of you who do not know about the Albaycin, totally not in a condescending way, it is the Arab community residing in the city of Granada, famous for its view of the Alhambra, while retaining its Moorish past.  The journey begins and continues to follow a pattern of winding cobbled roads, as the adventure only heightens in your inclination.  We are greeted by vendors, with assorted goodies, that at the time, I regretfully resisted, knowing I would soon return to purchase muchos regalos.  I wished so badly that my Dad was with me, so that I could proudly show off his arabic skills and handsome good looks (He'll appreciate that).  It was a piece of home that I have been missing, and I look forward to several more ventures and picnics to the area.  Along the way, we spot architectural adornments that Mom would die for and hookahs that Leila would think are "tight." Dogs without leashes, many who followed leisurely behind their owners, wishing Scoobs was here to cuddle with me at night, and quiet conversations in both Arabic and Spanish. The sun slowly set, as the shadows lingered amongst the Moorish homes, ah to be in good health.  At the top, we were greeted by the Gypsy Kings! jaja only kidding, it was a slightly smaller less organized group of Spaniards, nonetheless with the same intentions as any artist. 

It was and will continue to remain a sight never completed in words nor pictures, not even in dreams.  At first, I was hesitant to post a picture of what I believe to be a small piece of heaven's cake, but what the hey!

Amongst the crowd were fellow onlookers, several of which were homeless, quite a few tourists, and a painter. 

El Pintor  

 I wished this language was easy, desiring to hold conversations of consistency and fluidity.  Alex and I found ourselves in discussion con un hombre pobre (poor man) about the use of marijuana, as we watched his friend being questioned by the police for smoking the illegal substance. Only few words were exchanged, no es justo (it's not fair) and la policía were common, as we sat and shook our heads as if it were second nature.  Though unable to comprehend more than half of what was exchanged we felt a slight accomplishment in our ability to stir up a conversation that found its way into the ears of other onlookers.   

Alex y yo

A girl, my age and her dog, Aca, chimed in and in turn conjured up questions as to where we were from and how our time in Granada was so far.  Aca, a one year old quarrelsome pup was one of many that I found myself taking pictures of and relentlessly chasing down with my camera in one hand while the other extend in hopes of a quick beso and or hug.  I even found a Dalmatian, reminding me of Ali, our deceased Dalmatian who found its way into our home before I was out o' the womb.  

So many perros roam the streets, many strolling behind their owners, several mirroring their age. Dogs are tied outside of clothing stores on lamp posts or sitting on the ledges of restaurant windows, patiently waiting for their master to retrieve them and return a la casa.  We too returned home and were greeted by Luz and a new bedroom (the old one which the American boys had just left).  We now have a view, and an opportunity to spy on our neighbors across the way.  "Tengo una sorpresa para ti,"(I have a surprise for you) she said.  We followed her to the hallway and into the elevator to the thirteenth floor of her building... we were welcomed by the nightlight of Granada, a 360 degree view of what we shall call home for the next four months. 

I am so blessed to have found a city that shares my love and passion for the Arab and Spanish culture, and even more so to have first and foremost my family's love and support, and my friends encouragement and excitement en mi viaje. Thank you all, again.