Barca and beyond

"It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see." - Henry David Thoreau

I recently spent a great weekend in Barcelona. The weather was gorgeous, the people were lively, the culture was vibrant, and the food was amazing. I enjoyed every second exploring the Sagarda Familia, Parc Guell, Gothic quarter, the beach, and walking down the main street, the Ramblas. We tried the most amazing food while we were there- even waited 2 hours in the line for Bo-D-B's, this amazing sandwich shop. Totally worth the wait. Although I could've done without the group of American girls behind us who were trying to cut and order in front of us... they should've gone home, as my friend Jen likes to say.

One of the best parts of the weekend was it was Maria's birthday, and we got to spend it together in Spain! How legit is that. :) The friends that travel together, stay together ya know?

Definitely one for the books. Since coming home it's been a whirlwind of school and reality, and most recently, partying it up for St. Patrick's day. Apparently I live under a rock, because I was not aware how huge St. Patrick's day was in the US, let alone in Europe. Apparently the US does it bigger though... ironic. Either way, after a nice lunch at the Blue Lady Pub with Michaela and Alyssa, we ended up making dinner later that night- green soup and some mint and pistachio ice cream thing for dessert... it was great. Then we trekked over to Morrison's Pub in Cannes, a popular sport in general, even more so on St. Patty's day. They even shut down the street so the party could spill outside of the pub. I tried Kilkenny, some Irish beer that was equivalent to Guinness in color, and taste. Needless to say, I didn't even finish one. I'm beginning to realize I may be more of a Vanilla Dr. Pepper, Lemonade girl than a beer, wine drinker. But hey, think of all the calories and money I'll save! Either way, it was a fun experience- there was a live band, a DJ and so we just had a good time in our free hats- as seen below. :)

(from left to right, Alyssa, Michaela and me!) 

We finally made it home after an hour in the rain trying to hail a cab... it was a Sunday night to be fair but we were mildly angry by the time one finally came. Either way, we made it home, and it was a good story to tell. This whole experience of being in Europe has really opened my eyes to new cultures and new people. I love every minute of the time I get to spend here, the things I get to do, and the places I get to visit. Just the other day I was running and I came across this beautiful scene...

Breathtaking. The contrast of the clouds as a storm rolled in, with the beautiful sunlight hitting the blue water- it truly stopped me in my tracks. It looks fake, and I can't believe that's my reality. But I don't stop and enjoy it enough! It's like the quote says. It's not what I look at every day, it's what I truly see. As my time here in France starts winding to a close, I don't wanna merely look at France, I want to SEE. I want to see the ocean as new every day. I want to see my school as an opportunity to learn and grow. I want to see my friends as the blessings they are. I don't want to leave and close my eyes and not remember the little things. Those are the things that add up to the best memories. The best stories, and the sweetest times. I am so blessed, and I hope that we will all remember that no matter where we are, it's a choice to look, but it's also a choice to see. 

Bon Soir!

Jackie