peñiscola!

Yesterday I went on one of the school's first of 3 planned trips for the program.  We all met up at the Valencia soccer stadium and took about a 2 hour bus ride to arrive at the most beautiful beach I've ever seen.  Next to the beach is an ancient castle atop a hill surrounded by an old city.

After lounging around the beach for a couple hours we hiked to the top of the castle with the 2 professor's on the trip.  The view was absolutely breathtaking.


Everyone in the program is getting along really well and we're all getting to know each other better each day and with each outing.  My madre was telling me that it's uncommon how close we are and how big our groups are when we go out at night.  This was very comforting and I already know it's going to be an amazing semester!  Luckily the people from the same schools (UVA, Virginia Tech, Richmond, MSU, and a couple others) aren't very clicky and we can all bond and mix together well.

I have a great relationship with my madre already!  We've even gotten to the point where we hug and do the European double-kiss when I leave or get in.  My language skills have definitely helped and allowed us to break down barriers and talk about everything from her favorite places in Spain, to her family, to everything about my program.  I was surprised to hear that other students in the program don't have as great a relationship, but many of them aren't able to have fluid conversations, and don't get past what foods they like to eat.

Anywho--
Last night many of us in the group went out to a couple bars and a discoteca (basically a dancing club).  That was the first night I've stayed out until the sun came up.  Spain is such a fun atmosphere, everyone's so much nicer and more relaxed!
one of the main sayings here is no pasa nada, they say it for just about everything.  It means "it's alright, nothings wrong".  For instance, my madre says it if I apologize for waking up a little late or if anyone is worried about something-- the Spaniard's usual response will be "oo esta bien, no pasa nada" with a smile =)

I've gotta go though, Dan will be waiting outside for me in a couple minutes to head to the beach.
Que tengan buenos dias! I hope you all have a great day!
XO