Category: EUROPE

 

So begins Muharram. So begins our conquest of the Americas. So begins the goodbyes to Oceania, Asia, and now Europe. A day of packing, which by now, does not take long fofr us. I tried to take photos of all of Viena’s and Ezra’s artwork. The one photo I did not take was Viena’s big picture of the Eiffel Tower. They recycle cardboard here so I was able to pickup some thin big oversized ieces of cardboard that worked great for art projects. Cardboard art. They tried to do some cardboard art furing the peotry fest at the Conde Duque, but it was all organized wrong. We went to the Conde Duque library one last time. So quiet, so clean. It is as if I could spend a season or a year in there. It has been on of the few places where Ezra respects the silence – partly because he is so interested in all of the books. We continued on packing our bags. I prepared the last of our food. My plan was to be haeding to the Metro before dark. We caught the Plaza de Espana Metro with our 8 bags. Seemed like more stuff than when we arrived. The packing was cleaner – I even packed the red sled we found on the playground.What is a sled doing in the middle of Spain anyway. The winds were blowing. Say goodbye to the narrow streets. Today was colder than before we went to Paris. Paris gave us a sense of the coming winter – but no winter for us this year. We were on the Metro by 7pm Nuevo Minesterio to Terminal 4. At T4, they changed Ezra’s seat to be with us (oh well). We could not sit in an exit row. Checked the bags all the way to Rio de Janerio. Our last meal in Madrid, in Europe was at McDonalds. We took another subway to the T4 satellite Terminal. I love Madrid Airport – Just give yourself enough time. The greatest thing for Ezra and Viena was the motorcycle ride toy right in front of our waiting gte.They rode on the motorcycle (without paying) for hours – since we were 2 hours early. Happiness, relief came when we finally boarded the jet. Children helped us to board priority – there is a benefit to traveling with children. No Ryan Air. Everyone has their own TV on the planeWe asked another favor for a seat change and was rewarded. Midnight Flight arriving Early in the morning.

We did not do too much. This was our rest day. We packed for our long voyage to the New World. We are leaving the civilized culture of Europe and heading for the civilized culture of Brasil. Will they be similar? How much will Brasil have changed since we last were there 11 years ago? What will I miss from Spain, from Madrid. I will miss the playgrounds most of all, and I will miss the fact that Dwana feels very comfortable venturing outside by herself and with Ezra and Viena. I will miss this nice cool weather. I am sure we are heading back into hotter climates like what we encountered around the equator. And I will miss the bread.

Ezra is so LOUD

The Small Muscles in his Ears

Are Not Functioning

We took the red sled to the playground and had a wonderful time. We walked to the North in the city to see what we would find. We found a big playground park soccer filed area. There were fountains and gardens and lots of people enjoying this sunny beautiful Sunday. We found the BIG CARREFOUR store and a street that was closed to cars and everyone playing in the street. A good last day before Paris

Sometimes a Leopard

Does Not Need To Change Their Spots

Only Location

We stayed close to the neighborhood, only venturing to the nearby playground across the street. The clouds in the sky were nice autumn clouds, but the shadows foretold winters coming.They have recycling stations right across the street and many other locations along the city streets.

In This Modern World

What Happens In Alaska

Is Heard In Madrid

We walked to visit the Conde Duque library and Ezra and I also visited the remote control store. I really enjoy reading the Tin Tin comics of old.

The Evening Begins

Spaniards Around a Table

Drinks Smiles Food Laughs Time

Well, my back – left side seems to be throw out – chasing Ezra and Viena on the playground. Oh well. At least I was having fun, well kinda fun. The playground was the one across avenida albierto – and we went by the remote control everything place warehouse store that makes Ezra smile a big smile. The had remote control everything from Dogs to cars to drones. So much eye-candy. Ezra did pretty good about not touching things and just watching and looking in amazement. Of course, he wanted to go back in the afternoon. The day was cloudy and rainy. Everyone was cold, but me. I cannot afford to be cold. Ezra and Viena played well on the playground. We came home to watch AFN. Alaska Federation of Natives. I went for a walk to the library and museum. I looked at a couple of National Geographic and took a trip through China by myself. Such a different – by myself. Interesting, when I went to the library without everyone – the children’s section was full of kids. Interesting. I took some photos and went grocery shopping. I can feel Spain slipping away as we prepare for Paris and South America. Ezra and Viena had a difficult time at bedtime – what else is new.

Viena and I

Rollerblading in the Park

Ezra Coughed at Home

Viena and I went rollerblading at the soccer field, while Ezra stayed home with a cough. Ezra has had a cold the last 2 days. Viena has been on a soccer KICK lately, so she really did not roller-blade at the park. Adding soccer goals to the basketball courts is a nice addition. We have not seen too many people playing basketball. Soccer is the sport and the players, even on at the park move so fast – amazingly fast. We had the park all to ourselves. I asked her if she wanted to go to the library, but she wanted to go home. Once at home, I went on a run to the University. I have not been very adventuresome on my runs, like when we were in Thailand. Here, there is only city to discover, pr uncover. – I am not going to get lost in the city. I was able to run 15 300’s at a sub 70, which was my goal. Now what. Keep it up. I am glad th track is around. They played beach volleyball, but in groups – so it is not worth my time. And then the 3k run home.

Sweaters Scarves Hats Gloves

This is Not the Spain I Know

When the West Winds Blow

We had a late night soccer session at the park. We played in the area that the older gentlemen use for Bocci Balls. Not too many people at the park – only a few amorous couples, that seemed to be in competition. There were also some dog owners and 15 guys playing pickup court soccer. I thought when we moved here that I might have played a game of pickup soccer, but the guys are all too good. Too fast. Too skilled. But however, against Ezra and Viena, I still have a chance. We alternated between soccer and the playground. Viena and Ezra loves these baby swings which allow them to safely experience the gravity drop like a roller coaster. This was our second time to the playground to play soccer today. We came once in the morning. We have been staying close to home – for no reason at all. We went to the library after and had a good quiet time looking a Spanish Children’s books.

A Parade of Toys

Opens a Little Boys Mind

Possibilities

We walked to Corte Inglés in the morning – quite an experience. The store is kinda like a museum for the children – because we do not buy anything. Dwana was going to buy some items, but then I showed her how to save $50 and then she did not want to buy any of the items. I guess we all shop for different reasons. Regardless, we made it home. Dwana took Ezra and Viena to the playground and I started transferring files and baking up all the photos. I was going to go on a run, but my legs still were sore from yesterday. Then I called in to Alaska to have a teacher/parent conference for Mylon. He is fulfilling all the requirements but his teachers all said he could do more if he wanted. Oh well, I guess I feel the same way. They say he is behaving well and has a good attitude and is helping a 3rd grader out with math. I wonder the things that will make a difference. I spoke with Ira late into the night about all that is going on in his life. He has been one of the many people in our lives that has had life-changing events happen while we are travelling around the world. he sounded better. He sounded good, and he mentioned that he had processed lots of things. Glad to be able to talk to him, and I am glad I am where I am. I do not wish Mylon or anyone to walk down Ira’s path, but I will not be surprised. I see similarities in both of them. Late in the night, Dwana and I watched a live webcast of the Alaska Youth and Elder Conference. They spoke dormant-sleeping languages. I did not sleep well. I have not slept well the last couple of nights – no dreams, just restlessness. Spanish nights – no more.

The Best Slide in Town

At Plaza de Espana

Ezra Verified

What did we do today. We ran into some hooligan antics – our first time since we started this around the world voyage. Pretty Good string of days we had going on. But a Sunday morning on the playground, and a gang of Oliver Twist kids showing up led to Ezra’s two big metal trucks being missing. Through so high levels investigative work, Dwana and I discovered that the kingpin of the group – a 9-9 year old boy had them in his pocket. He lied to us, but we were able to recover both cars without much roughing up of the subject. The morning on the playground – a new playground across the street was wonderful. The playground was shaded, but eventually the sun topped the buildings and let the sun beams through.We walked down through the Conde Duque and made a small visit to China. The poetry Slam was finished. The library was closed. We walked down the street to the Plaza de Espana and enjoyed the afternoon sunshine. Viena and Ezra played on their favorite slide. Wedding couples come down to the fountain to take photos. Ezra threw a rock and it ricocheted of the grass and almost hit an unsuspecting Spaniard who was not happy. Ezra is always walking this fine line of doing something inappropriate or not listening. $ years Old. Travelling the world. The day was wonderfully sunny and beautiful. When we came home, I went on a run to the Madrid University. I love running around their 300 meter track. The day by this time had turned into overcast. No rugby game today, only a bunch of volleyball players determined to find out who has the court. I ran 15 laps of 300’s. 4500 meters at a 70 second split with 50 seconds of rest. I almost completed it but had a collapse on the final lap. So I ended up running 5 more. I guess my body is starting to adapt. The run home was good. I passed a group of college students celebrating the beginning of the semester all dressed up in the park. The Spaniards are always ready to protest or party here in Madrid.

Who Threw The First Punch

In  The Endless Pillow Fight

Nadie Sabe

Ira gave us his frustration scale reading. We all could benefit from this type of training, especially the children. What is the healthy recommended allowance of anger? Does playing sports help or hurt this healthy level? I figured out why so many Spaniards smoke, beside the fact that they are addicted. The fact is that the smoke smell covers up the urine odor that is prevalent throughout the streets of the city of Madrid – especially pungent in the morning. We did so much today in so little time – just by venturing outside. Ezra was in a big pillow fight in the museum. No one wanted to go to China again. We visited the things just right outside our door, then we walked to the DUSDE market in the Dos de Mayo Plaza. Not too many cool things. The children enjoyed the playground, but the scent from no bathrooms around stopped my excitement. Now, we are back a t home and Dwana made some Nachos – ready and hot. Hopefully the rest of the day will go as smooth. Maybe, I will go on another run. Went on a run and watched a rugby game. The rains fell in Spain. The kids had fun at the playground.

Full Moon Rising

High Above Conde Duque

Only For Our Eyes

This has been an interesting week in the sense that my outside activity has dwindles to almost nothing. Viena has been put on neighborhood arrest. Finally after a week, she shows no signs of afternoon lethargy. I have bee spending more time around the wired connection trying to learn Spanish, update friends and plan the remainder of our trip. Over 200 days. Over 2/3 Almost. Since we could not be gone exactly a year with the ticket. You must use the ticket in a year – 365 days from the date of purchase – so we have until Feb 23rd. Amazing, we were able to make this leap of faith around the world. Say, what did we do on Day 202. We went to a small playground near a church. . Then we went and even she did not want any part of China today. We sat in the library and read Spanish books. One other little boy was there but we usually have the Children’s Library to ourselves. Outside in the plaza area had big air-bags floating around – like double the size of a king sized mattress bag – for the poetry slam. Ezra and Viena loved the playfulness of the big bags being blown by the breeze in the boundaries of the plaza. Ezra complained that all the poetry slammer spoke too loud. I had to agree. They had to loud to talk over all the others. We stayed until night fell. Ezra and Viena were both entertained enough – and the almost full moon appeared. I tried to take the photos I wanted.

No Queria Ir

Por La Calles De Madrid

Otros No Dejan

Ezra and Viena and Dwana must have went outside 3 or 4 times to go to the market or playground or library. I stayed close to home with either Ezra of Viena (whichever one did not want to go outside). Viena or Ezra would usually stay and draw a picture on the huge cardboard surfaces I found in the discard pile, or they would color a picture. Viena was still on observation for afternoon stomach illness shutdown. Today she passed. She only had a small 15 minute span of sorts feeling tingle. Last night was Ezra’s night – and Today was Viena’s night. She stayed up until 1AM talking to people on Skype. I tried going to bed before midnight, but could not. Our place is quiet if the neighbor is not watching movies, but something about the Spanish air makes noise carry. You don’t hear the rumbles of cars on the street, you only hear the Spanish conversations muffled being bounced through the narrow city streets, travelling, looking for a window to go into – from all over the plazas.

Every 16 Days

Ezra Hosts A Late-Talk-Show

Tonight Was His Night

Viena again had a case of the 4pm afternoon stomach flu blues, but today we were smart enough not to be half-way across town and needing to talk a metro to come home. We were actually already at home and like clockwork, her demeanor changed and she became helpless and needed her stomach rubbed or back rubbed until she finally fell asleep and then she would only wake up to go through the same routine again. She finally fell asleep a second time around 10pm. Interestingly enough, Ezra’s nighttime energy has doubled. It is as if they have switched places. Ezra talks non-stop from around 9pm until 11pm, even after Dwana tried reading to him for an hour from 8-9pm. something about the waxing moon of Madrid has Ezra amped and Dragons and Dragon school and dragons and skateboards. I tried learning some Spanish, but the best teachers are outside. Today, we did go to the Conde Duque Biblioteca in the morning – right down the street. Viena and I went out earlier and encountered mist on our way for morning bread.

We Walked Across Town

We Ran Out Of Energy

Caught The Metro Home

Not fazed by Viena needing to be carried home through the street of Madris, we once again headed off into the city 0 our goal – a second hand clothing store near El Retiro park. Viena seemed to be walking OK in the morning. Ezra was the one dragging us down causing us to almost turn around be roe we started. We went a different way that took us past a church in an interesting plaza. The Corte Ingles store on Gran Via is our Landmark for Plaza del Sol. Lots of people out and now Ezra was skipping and running. We discovered the clothing store on Calle de Atoch and then continued onto Parque El Retiro. I wanted to see the falling angel statue. We walked past all the booksellers. this is where things started to break down. The time was 4PM and we did make it to a playground in Retiro Park, and Ezra found some energy to play with some Danish boys on Autumn break. Viena’s condition kept going downhill and she ended up leaving some lunch over behind the park bench. She said she felt better, but she was not going to be able to walk the 4km back home. I ended up carrying her to the nearest Metro – our first Madrid Metro – and luckily the Metro was heading right back towards our place. Another mule-carry-Viena down Calle de Palma and we were safe and sound at home.

A Super-Girl Owned

A Playground Built For Giants

But Could Not Walk Home

We ate a small breakfast and Dwana packed a lunch and off we went upon the streets of Madrid. We just assume that the weather will be walking . Rarely do I dress depending on the climate. So far in Madrid we have had simply beautiful weather. So out the door and a quick stop into the Conde Duque to loo a t books. It is so great that this library is so close. We continued across Calle Princesa and towards the Gardens of the Palace, but we could not find the gate to enter, so we kept walking until another park appeared. This park was across the river and mostly concrete. A few bikers but not many people. No other children at the playground. The playground was great – tightrope walking spiderweb nets. you could go from one end of the playground to the other without touching the ground. Viena was loving it. But, then her tummy-ache appeared again and left her unable to walk. We tried some chocolate and churros, but that did not work. We found the one bridge that crosses over the Metro Tracks and into PArque Oeste. We finally made it home and Viena crashed out – plum worn out, I guess. Ezra and I went to the playground. I watched some boys play marbles and Ezra was thrilled that a boy shared his motorcycle with him. Ezra has a play monster named Kayu. I am not sure where he finds these names – I wanted to name him Freddie.

Picnic In The Park

On The Day The Earth Evolved

The Ship Sailed From Spain

Viena was feeling a little better, but we still did not do much. Probably our laziest Sunday in a long time. Dwana did some laundry. We actually have a clothes-line here on the 4th floor. The clothes dry fast in this dry climate. I found some kids songs to sing-s-long to. Ezra and Viena played well today. Every time we go to the playground, the first thing Ezra does is to look at all the other kids toys to see what he can go and play with. He is doing well with this, not with the Spanish language, but maybe because we interact with with more children because of the playground I can see that he is picking up some of the Spanish phrases. Ezra and I went and played on the playground in the afternoon, while Viena and Dwana took a nap. There were only a few children on the playground and a group of guys/girls had set up a volleyball net with a ping pong net and some hazard tape – pretty ingenious. I am going to start travelling with a ping pong net next time. One set of children were a Swedish-Spanish mix. Tack! she said. Some day Europe will be the melting pot.

Pain In The Belly

Keeps Us Inside All Day Long

Babe Sonja Visits

Viena has a stomach ache. We were going to try and meet back up with Marcus and AnnaStina and BabySonja at Retiro Park, but we ended up staying home and doing some watchful waiting. When it was determined that Viena was down for the day, Ezra and I went on a walk to Corte Inglés to register for the Madrid 10K and check out all the 3rd floor toys.The 10K race was postponed so I could not register, but the toys were still on the 3rd floor and I think that Ezra played with all of them. The Spanish celebrate Columbus Day today, so most stores were closed. We did sneak out in the morning and have a great picnic near the playground at the end of the street near CarreFour Express. We have never seen a big CarreFour, only Express. At Corte Inglés, we went to he book store and a clown musician showed up which Ezra loved. We had been playing with Legos, but he was excited to receive a free show in Spanish. unfortunately, we missed Baby Sonja who stopped by.

Remember The Moon

Cause All Kids Can Go To Sleep

Come Here Lil Hamster

We walked over to meet Baby Sonja, Marcus and AnnaStina. Amazingly, I think Baby Sonja recognized Viena. They were inseparable the rest of the day. We tried to find some green space outside the Museum of Natural History, but very little. We walked down Campellas to the Plaza Colon and played in the playground that I owned and stubbed my toe – I dd not own it today. Viena and Sonja owned the playground. Marcus, AnnaStina and BabySonja are friends from Maui days and have been the only familiar people we have seen (except Jared). Good to have a nice conversation in Swedish, I mean English. We arrived home late, but what is late these days.

At Six Bright Light Streams

Shadows Stretching To Be Real

On Plaza Del Sol

Well, I went to sleep at 2:30 a.m. this morning and I was still be hearing sounds of people outside. I’m not sure why the late Spanish energy is here. We went on a wonderful afternoon evening walk to the Park de Retiro past Plaza Del Sol. Just when you think you are not surrounded by people, the people appear. Not many children out and not many playgrounds on this walk. Lots of shop to shop. Some street performers at Plaza del Sol. You could pose with Mickey Mouse for a photo fee. Easy enough business opportunity. The guys supporting themselves with platforms are interesting to Ezra. The walk around with Retiro Park was nice and relaxing and Vienna and Ezra could almost feel like they were on an actual forest walk with all the different paths to walk on. We found some water ponds with ducks and the pillars in front of the boat pond. The sun’s rays were brilliant and warm, very welcoming. These same rays guided us back to Plaza del Sol as the Sun shines right down the street in the evening. By this time Ezra was fading, but we all made it home and even had time to play at the local playground with our 1€ rubber band helicopters. A good walk. A good day. We picnicked along the way.

Biblioteca

The Kids Were Quiet For Hours

Right Next To Our Place

Nice day to be in Madrid. Viena and I brought home some fresh bread from the panadaria for breakfast. This morning Viena is glad she is wearing a sweater. We walked to the playground and then onto the neat new library close by – Conde Duque. They have a nice clean empty children’s section – empty of people and lots of children’s book. The library must be new. Ezra and Viena entertained themselves with books for at least an hour. They miss the non digital book, regardless of the language. Dwana had packed a picnic so we walked to the park towards Gran Via, and sat next to a cafe and the main road. We saw a father and son here yesterday with their homemade sandwiches and leeks. To eat at most restaurants is at least 10€ or $15 so we bring our lunch wherever we go. Not many children out in the early afternoon. We saw a newborn with lots of Spanish hair. He will find out how it is to grow up in Spain in the year 2013. Today with sunny and clear with wonderful weather. I have heard about the hot Spanish summer. I am glad we are here in the fall. I went on a run to the University of Madrid. They have a beach volleyball net in the middle of their running track. They have a climbing wall outdoors and not many students around the campus. Ezra, Viena and I walked to buy 1€ fresh blended fruit fruit drinks from the open market. Ezra cut his finger and out drain his energy. A peaceful day in Madrid, let the night begin.

University

Almost Oldest In The World

Students Still Smiling

We all walked in the late afternoon University Mayor Madrid Campus about 2 kilometers away. I thought this might be a bit far for Ezra in the late afternoon, but he did fine. We cut through Parque Oeste with Ezra. Ezra and I were hiding behind the different trees and Dwana and Viena were trying to find us. Viena did not really like this game. I am not sure why? Not too many people in the park or on the campus. I wonder if school is in session. Nice big campus with nice dorms. Ezra played in the sand why I ran around the track. Students were rock climbing and playing volleyball. I did not see anyone studying. A group of runners were running around the 300 meter track. Ezra and I joined them. Ezra really love running around the track. I thought he would give up or take a shortcut through the grass, but he wanted to keep running on the track. I just kept thinking that we have to walk home the 2 kilometers. At 7:30 p.m. the sun was still up, but low in the sky and groups of people were still showing up to enjoy the evening activities. Evening in Spain begins round 8 and continues until midnight. The walk home was slow but interesting with other people walking around. By now we are all quite familiar with the streets around our place. I found a supermarket close by to buy dinner.

Travelers Like Us

Searching For Significance

Led by Paper Maps

 
We now have all of our passports with VISAS ready to enter Brazil. Yippee! Westward we will move. Today Ezra was entirely too loud for apartment living. I’m not sure what some of the neighbors think, but I heard some windows closed. That is why one of my strategies has been to rise early and begin our adventure before Ezra realizes he’s awake and hungry. The only place we see Spanish children is on the playground. Like most cities big downtown areas have no houses or yards so everyone plays in the playgrounds, not even on the sidewalks. So this has been what I have observed. The kids in Asia – Southeast Asia played wherever they could and their parents were nowhere to be found. They played in the streets, hillside, railroad tracks. Here in Madrid, they have so many designated play areas for kids that they do not need to use their imagination to play. I guess in Southeast Asia the kids had to first imagine they were in another place, a playground of sorts, and then play begins. And they had a yard or land to create their own space. Here in Madrid they play soccer, or have the Boy Scouts, or they go to music lessons after school. Everything you would expect – interesting. I went on a run to grab everyone’s passport. Thankfully, they all came back stamped with a visa for Brazil. My run took me again to the University of Madrid and then somewhere near the US Embassy. I thought I would never find the US embassy. The playground was really crowded at the happy hour of the playground 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Viena and I decided to walk back and hang out and read. I even was able to read her a little Spanish book. In hindsight, we should have planned to stay the winter here in Madrid. I like it here in Madrid. The prices and the people. Dwana went out on her own with children, a First in months. Viena even knows her way around.

If You Did Not Know

Viena Loves Little Babies

Who Speak Only Smiles

We tried to go on a walk early to explore every street and park and playground of Madrid, but Ezra was being a crab so we did not go because who wants to escort a crabby 4-year-old boy around Madrid if you do not need to. So, we sat at home as the children bounced off the walls – back and forth, back and forth. Eventually we snuck out and left the crab at home and went to the Palacio del MAdrid, right next to the Plaza Espana. The entrance fee for the main palance is 10€, but free during the weekday afternoon if you are European. Oh well, we could see most of the palace from the outside. We walked around the palace and Jardin and discovered some interesting parking space attendants. The parking is so jammed packed that guys would stand waiting for someone to leave and then stand in the open spot to direct the next person to park and then ask for a tip. Interesting. We found a playground with a sliver of afternoon sun. We had a wonderful picnic. Viena had pre-packed some sandwiches. We saw more tourists than usual around the palace, with lots of big double-decker-convertible buses going by with older tourists. They were filming a commercials with tall models on the front steps of the palace – palace princesses from another time. They also had a playground, of course. Lot of children were playing on this bright sunny Sunday. Viena and I had to run back to rescue Ezra’s buried monster truck. Nothing left behind. No clouds. Pure sun today, but a sense of Fall in the air. We walked around the palace grounds back to the Plaza Espana, where Ezra discovered the best slide of all near the fountain. Ezra was showing signs of tiredness through the day, but slides and playgrounds kept him going. All the late Madrid nights are catching up with him – I know they are catching up with me. We arrived home at 7:15 p.m – and the Madrid Sun was still shining. I decided to go on a late quick run. I ran to the College in 20 minutes and was prepared to run home, but low and behold, the sand volleyball court for being used. After running a couple of laps around the track I went over and played my first game of volleyball in a long while. The sand felt good. The sand must be imported from the Sahara Desert. Madrianos play until the sky black. I left with a little orange fill in the sky. Iran along the cayenne pepper and say so. The streets are becoming very fun in familiar. Madrid, especially this part, is a very fun city to run around in. I will have to think about this more. I spent time to deciding upon Paris and locations in Brazil. go go go go go go go.

I Was Born In Spain

And Given A Pelota

You Asked Me How Why?

Spain has caught up with us. We now go to bed late and wake up late. “I can’t because I’m too tired” – Ezra. The playground is most alive with people at 7pm – which has usually been our bedtime – but now, it is just the beginning of our night and evening. We have never seen so many parents and children at the playground on our travels. Mostly children age 7 or younger. Mostly Ezra’s age. Viena is usually one of the bigger children. Even the little babes who barely know how to walk – know how to kick a soccer ball. We walked up the street one block to the Museo ABC – a converted brewery factory, but now an architectural artistic wonder. This is a very good part of town for us to stay – playgrounds abound. I went for a run to the University of Madrid through Parque Oeste. The amount of green space in their city center is amazing. Where we are does not feel like a city at all. The streets are very walk-able. There are lots of trails and very few people enjoying the park on a beautiful Saturday. Makes you wonder? Why? What do people do? very few bicycles here. What do people do? I did not see anyone else running through the park. What do the people do? I did not see too many people at the University. The students must be on break. Great skies. Madrid is not like Rome. Madrid is not like Vienna. Madrid is Madrid.

Narrow City Streets

Ruins Transformed into Playgrounds

Green Grass Made For Fun

Park Benches at Playgrounds

Littered With Last Night’s Luau

Who Sleeps Here Tonight?

What? Today We Walk

Not Through The Crowded City

Just To The Playground

We went to Corte Inglés, the big shopping center 10 blocks away from our place. Easy to walk to. We found the 3rd floor which has all the toys and just let Viena and Ezra play for hours. They have not seen a toy store area like this in a long time. They were pretty good when we had to go. We have really done a number on consumerism. We did buy Dwana, Viena and I some needed clothes. I bought some running shoes – not the ones priced at 169€ (200 USD) but 20€ (30 USD). Most of the shoes are around 100€. Not for my feet. So I went for a run when we arrived back at the apartment. I thought these cheap shoes might give me a blister but so far, so good. It felt good to go on a real run, with real running shoes. I have not done any real running since Borneo. Borneo, oh Borneo cough, cough, cough,cough. we saw a flyer for a kid’s movie. It took 5 guys in suits to make the remote control work. By the time we arrive home 8pm. Time for dinner. I guess. These late night starts take some getting used to . We have not seen the moon in a long time. Walked through the Conde Duque. Saw some protesters. Friday must be protest day.

A Nameless Nube
Transforms At The End Of The Day
While Bird And I Watch

The day of Visas. A complete day. This is why you would pay someone to acquire VISA’s for you. An all-day affair … with children in-tow. We accomplished our goal. Everyone is passport-less except me. Hopefully, we will pick up the passports plus a Brasilian Visa tomorrow. The fees were outrageous. The highest we have seen – only because America charges so many fees for entering tourists from South America. We have only been in Madrid for one week, but our early morning activities and routines have halted and disappeared. We were lucky to be out of the door by 8:30am this morning. the good thing is that our apartment location allows us to walk to the Brasilian consulate. We had a morning snack at another little cafe named after Viena. Spain also only uses 1 “N” from VIENA – just like a little girl I know. We had all the correct paperwork minus photos with a white background. I have been carrying around those photos – we have been sticking them on postcards – thinking we could use them when the time was right – wrong. We had to have new photos taken at the 2 Euro each in the Colon Metro Photo-booth. On the walk back we stopped by a playground. A nice one for bigger kids. I owed this playground when we played tag until I broke my toe trying to run up the slide chasing Viena. The bigger you are, the harder you kick your toe. I will survive. Ezra and Viena loved the playground after 2 hours sitting waiting for Visa’s. Oh – the paperwork. Before you travel the world, ask yourself – are you good at paperwork. Hopefully you are. We will find out soon if I am good at paperwork. The playground at Mayo Plaza had a strange vibe during the siesta hour. Grocery shopping and Skype calls to home.

A Television
Speaks Nonsense Through Our Window
The Clock Strikes Midnight

We woke up late. Made breakfast even later. Nice to have the apartment and kitchen. Ezra and Viena have enjoyed the new toys at the $1.00 store. Ezra was bummed because all of the games and videos were erased from the Kindle. I still do not know how he did that. We went to the baby playground real close to our place. A guy earlier had given Ezra a little truck but later in the day, the truck was gone. Lots of children out from the school. I ran to the Brasilian Consulate later in the day and made it back before dark.

Autumn Happens Once
A Spanish Leaf Falls From The Clouds
Into My Embrace

A day. A day. The first of October. We walked past the park of the pyramids and the playground with the dizzy chair. A chair like they should have in every house. Ezra seemed to be just waking up all day long. A day of playgrounds. I guess. So far that has been what has separated Madrid from the other places we have been. They have playgrounds and you see the parents with the children out in the plazas and playgrounds. We must have visited at least 10 different playgrounds on our morning and afternoon walks. In this part of the city (Bernardo and Princesa), they have placed little playgrounds wherever they can – even between buildings. Still no public bathrooms. We live on a street called Calle de las Palmas – which must have been all palm trees at some point, but now is only buildings and small shops and businesses that have a garage door and about 200 square feet for their operations. They also have a music school on the street , so I like seeing all the people carrying their guitars, violins, and other instruments down the street. We walked past Cafe Viena. We took a tour of the Pyramids. In the evening, we walked to the Plaza de Mayo and played. Lots of people and children and families out. The daylight is similar to Alaska here in that the evening energy carries you way past 7:00 (our normal bedtime). We arrived home around 8:00. Bedtime is 10:00pm when in Spain. Haiku’s. Autumn happens once – A Spanish Leaf falls from the clouds – Into my embrace. A Television – Speaks nonsense through our window – the clock strikes midnight. In Spanish culture – Greetings and salutations – Abound everywhere. Travelers like us – Searching for significance – Led by paper maps. Narrow city streets – Ruins transformed into playgrounds – green grass made for fun. Shhhhhh! Can you listen – to the morning of Madrid – Everyone Sleeps In. Fresh bread smell from the – local panaderia – Ezra says I’m hungry. Soccer Spain style – Involves fitness and footwork – strong kicks and strong smiles. Protest in the street – Taxi stopped meter going – Time for us to leave (vamonos family). If you did not know – Viena loves little babes – who speaks only smiles. Park benches at playgrounds – littered with last nights luau – who sleeps here tonight? What! Today we walk – not through the crowded city – just to the playground? University – almost oldest in the world – students still smiling. Biblioteca – the kids were quiet for hours – right next to our place. how I wish I knew – Everything I could do to – make here feel better. Every 16 days – Ezra is a talk-a-lot – tonight was his night. A parade of toys – open a little boys mind – possibilities. Sweaters scarcves Hats Gloves -this is not the Spain I know – when the West wind blows. Ezra is so loud – the small muscles in his ears – are not functioning. I was born in Spain – and given a pelota – you ask me how? At 6 bright light streams – shadows stretching to be real – down Plaza del Sol. A nameless deep cloud – transforms at the end of day – while bird and I watch. A full moon rising – high above Conde Duque – only for our eyes. Viena and I – rollerblading in the park – Ezra coughed at home. The evening begins – Spaniard around a table – drinks, food, smiles, laugh, time. No quiero ir – por la calles de Madrid – Deixa otros ir. I this modern world – what happens in Alaska – is heard in Madrid. Sometimes a leopard – does not need to change his spots – only his location.

In Spanish Culture
Greetings and Salutations
Abound Everywhere

The last day of September. Amazing that we began this month in Sri Lanka watching elephants, and now we are in the city of Madrid enjoying the sounds of Spanish being spoken on every corner. I enjoy just sitting next to Spanish parents at the playground and listening in on their conversation – not that I understand any of it, but I am pretending I am just a small toddler without words – listening and learning to speak my first words. I met a gut from Pampalona on the playground with his daughter. hopefully we can meet some Spaniards while we are here. We spent time at both playgrounds nearby. We had the playground to ourselves this morning. The school next door dismissed at noon and all the toddlers were freed and came and played this afternoon. The rains started, then the sun appeared. At 7:00pm, the Sun was still bright and we walked and played at the other playground. Ezra almost fell asleep – but I did not want him to have a siesta. Tried downloading some Spanish language applications to supplement my learning.

Fresh Bread Smells From The
Local Panaderia
Ezra Says I’m Hungry

Sunday. Woke up and purchased some bread at the local panaderia – 2 blocks away. Everything we need is only a couple of blocks away. We can walk everywhere. The Metro stop is a couple of blocks away as well. We stayed around the house most of the day. I did make a trip to the farmers market and purchased some fresh fruits and vegetables. The fish market even sold eels and fruit juice for 1 Euro. At the playground, people and children are enjoying the park – old and young – boys and girls – men and women. They have a small soccer field the size of a basketball court. A pick-up game is going on of co-ed soccer – mostly girls – seemed to be easily organized. The park was dirty and filled with lots of bottles and trash from the night before. Madrid does have a smell of urine in the morning. The Spanish culture seems more social and fun of recreating than Rome and Vienna. Lots of big dogs enjoying the playground. The older people were playing a game with silver Bocci Calls. The weather has been overcast with slight rain and colder than imagined. Enough is enough.

Shhhhhh! Can You Listen?
To The Mornings of Madrid
Everyone Sleeps In

Today. Last night, Madrid was awake until all hours of the night. Who knows what time we arose? The grocery store showed that the prices are almost half of Rome and Vienna for most things. That feel good. We took a walk to Parque Oeste – Park of the West. We walked past the fish and meat and vegetable markets and Plaza Espana. Parque Oeste had a view over the est part of the city. The playground was still in shade. People seem to wake up later here. That was the interestingly eerie happening. The early morning around 7 or 8 O Clock was so quiet like you would expect in the middle of the night – zero sounds or people or cars or activity. The sunset is finished around 9pm. the

Protest In The Streets

Taxi Stopped Meter Going

Time For Us To Leave

Well, we arrived in Madrid Spain after a Metro Ride a bus Ride a Jet ride and a Taxi ride. We were greeted in Madrid by a parade of protesters that clogged traffic in the downtown area, marching for women’s rights. Never saw something like that in Asia or the Middle East. One day. One day. Our place is nice but the bathtub situation keeps downsizing, along with the height of the ceiling.
Ezra has had some funny comments in Rome – assisted by the statues, and churches, and Mother Mary. “Mother Mary, where are you?” Äaah!, Mother Mary scares me” SO many churches in Rome. I am so glad we took our time in Rome and did not try to visit other parts of Italy on this trip. When in Rome – Stay in Rome. Our places to stay worked out perfectly. We were able to walk around everywhere. I learned a little Italian as well. The language is fun to listen to compared to some of the other languages we have heard on this trip. Italians are beautiful and everywhere you look people are dressed nice and looking sharp. So different than our A-round-the -world clothes. I am not going to miss saying “Prego!” to Dwana every time she thanks me for something. “Thanks for the ice cream Foley.” – “Prego.” Ezra has had the most difficult time separating from toy and souvenirs and treats on the streets. “This is not a fun day!” _Ezra. He is getting better. We took the Cipro Metro and arrived at Termini station like Romans. The Terravision Bus was soon to arrive and Viola! here we are at Fiumicino Airport at the McDonalds next to a hidden playset overlooking the landing strip runway. Quite nice for McDonalds. The plan is to take a taxi from the Madrid airport to our new place. Bye Bye Rome. Hello Madrid. Rome has been o nice of a stop. I have never visited a city with so many tourists and so many historical sights. I think we did a great job of walking through the city using Google Maps and seeing as many of the free sights in Rome that you can see. Fountain de Trevi. Piazza de Navona. Pantheon. Keyhole. Acqua Paulo. St Peters Cathedral. Ruins after ruins after ruins after ruins. Cathedral. Basilica. Church. Everyone but me has a slight cold and sneezes, but nothing to hold us back. Cold over fever anytime. The short pop over to Vienna was just right. The weather has been perfect with a touch of blue skies, white clouds and even some raindrops to play in. What will I remember the most – the streets, small and narrow; the Colosseum – big yet small in Rome, picturesque and historical; the markets- fresh, colorful, noisy.