Adapting

A year ago I was writing about adapting to the local culture, but now it is time to readjust to life in Claremont.

Some parts are easier than others.

• It was great to out for dinner and have as much ice water as we want included in the price of dinner.
• I can turn a knob on the stove and flame appears, no match necessary.
• I don't have to look at my watch before going to a store. Most likely if I am awake, the store is open.
• I can enjoy fresh air while hanging laundry since my neighbors don't smoke.
• I don't have to plan what I am going to say before I go to the store/library/other.
• I can chat with the friendly people working at the grocery store.
• Each day a newspaper in English is delivered to the house.
• Having a car and knowing how to get places.

On the other hand I miss

• the immersion, the differences, the newness of everything. I suppose that would have worn off.
• the break from fund raising
• inexpensive and effective public transportation
• the solitude of my running routes
• digestive biscuits
• festivals!

It is good to unpack and get rid of things we should have not saved in the first place and savor some of the things we did save. It is good to go to the library and run into friends. It is good to cycle to the pool and swim with friends.

I am grateful for the chance to learn to love where I am.

Hidden treasures

Actually, it isn't so hidden because I found it when we were in Sant Cugat in December 2015, but my Spanish teacher recommended a visit so I made my way over there one day about three months ago.

This little church, also called a hermitage, was built recently but it was
mentioned as early as the 10th century, according to information from the city.

I don't know why there were flowers on the windows.

These tiles are on the side of the church and I came up with two different translations.

1) Please, ask yourself good beggars
or
2) Discover yourself a good beginner

and pray to the Holy Christ of Lloseres to give us a constant well and Heaven at dying hours.

Carrer de Llaceres is a relatively wide street and has a real bike lane. The houses lining it are beautiful, but are mostly hidden away.  Here are a few pictures.

This one has some sort of day care on the property.

This is my favorite, but I could not really capture it.
You can see other people's pictures here and here.

Even though I had been there for I hadn't really paid attention. I appreciated the reminder to get out and see the city.