Between U.S.A. and Spain.

CAVEMEN EDIBLE MUSH.

 

The weather was changing. Gloomy days, rain, and chilly winds... 

All the  cavemen of Rock-o-Villas were tired of their damp caves.

They constantly scratched their heads, while asking themselves,

what was happening to their world...Was the sun gone forever? Will

it ever stop raining? When would they be able to go out of the caves

and look for edible sides? All they had left in their rock coolers was meat

room the last dinosaur hunt, and little else! 

 

Their brains were hurting from so much thinking! Even worse, signs

of cave fever were starting to show....particularly at the Ugah's cave!                         

Ugah-woman, was stone bored of eating T-Rex steaks. She went to 

the kitchen area, grabbed a bat swatter and went straight to 

Ugah-man, who was taking a nap on a giant sloth rug. Ugah-woman

did not hesitate, she lifted the hand holding the bat swatter and 

let him have it. He sat up covering his face...and yelled, "Are you

loosing your pebbles?" She replied angrily, "You wear the mammoth

skins around here...you get something else to eat with the meat,

or there won't be any 'nocturnal predator pretending' for you!".

 

Ugah-man pulled his tangled hair, hit his chest with his fists

several times, and kicked their giant,  pet armadillo. A large slate 

plate flew straight to his head, knocking him to his knees.

Ugah-woman said  scornfully, "I told you to treat "Madillo" like part

of the family!!" He growled at her...

 

Ugah-man took off  in the rain. No luck. All the the no-meat edibles

were rotten from the water...He headed back home empty handed, and

fearing Ugah-woman. This was one soaking wet, miserable caveman.

 

As soon as he entered their cave, Ugah-woman asked if he had found

something. He shook his head. She growled and kicked him. He kicked

back. She jumped on him and bit him. He bit back. In a split second

they were wrestling on the floor...The commotion was such, that

one of the cave walls gave in and they stopped the fight to see

what had happened. They went over the rumbled rocks, and into 

the new open space. Ugah-woman said, "Hmmmm, I like...we

needed a new room! This rocks, Ugah-man!". He scratched his 

head, and said, "But, look...we need to clean up! What is that

strange stuff all over the floor?" 

Ugah-woman picked one up, and pressed it between her fingers.

It became mush. "I don't know..looks edible to me!". Ugah-man,

thrilled said, "You mean...we have a whole room of edible mush!" 

They looked at each other lovingly and said together, "We will

call the new edible  mushroom!!!" 

 

Ugah-woman  heated Extra Virgin Mammoth Oil in a pan. Then dded

the clean mushroom caps. 

Ugah-man added the salt and pepper...

She looked around and found 2 garlic cloves. He smashed 

them with his hand. In went the garlic!

Then...some  aged, white, foot stomped, grape nectar. It was

all stirred with a twig.  Ugah-woman thought it looked good, and put

on a plate. However, Ugah-man, who was still  searching for things

to add to the pan, found an onion. He loved  onions!

Ugah woman added  a little more oil to the pan...put the chopped

onion in, and said, "Babysaurus, get those T-Rex steaks going on the

hot rocks...this is almost done!" 

When the onions were soft, she added the mushrooms in the pan again.

He brought her some edible weeds growing outside the cave...

The weeds were chopped finely with her saber tooth knife...

Remembering she had some butter from the last time they churned

Yak milk, she added some, and saw it melt. Ugah-woman loved how

it smelled!

 

Ugah-man, let out a loud "Two T-Rex steaks coming up!!".

Ugah-woman, responded happily, "Lots of mushrooms as a side! "

 

The mushroom and steak dinner was so satisfying  that after dinner

the Ugah's sat quietly ...lovingly...by the cave's fire place. "Ugah-babe

tomorrow we will tell everyone  to look for rooms full of mush in their

caves". He grunted and held her hand. 

Later that night, Ugah-man was given the ok for...

"nocturnal predator pretending".....

WEEK 35

Oct. 21-27

 

SANDRA AND ALONSO IN SPAIN.

MARICELA AND THE TWINS.

COUSINS...

 

 

It has been a long week for me...with Sandra and Alonso in Spain,

I try to do as much as I can, but I feel I don't make much progress.

I won't complain...part of not accomplishing my mega long "to do"

list has been my own choosing. After all, when Sandra and Alonso, 

come back...I will go back to my regular routine, and...have less 

time. But, that's O.K. 

 

One good thing this week has been going back to writing 

Food Stories. I have started a second blog within this one, where

I will only post my recipes. That will give me the "feel" of my cook

book. I have to believe this will happen. I don't know how...but, 

I want to believe it will become a book. 

 

An even better thing that has happened to me has been spending

some time with Maricela, a young Mexican mom, who has given 

birth to premature twin girls. Without any family, except her husband

and her daughter Violeta. I volunteered to help her out, with the

house, the kids, anything! Oddly enough...she is the one helping me.

All she wants is conversation...a relaxed moment to share with

someone.

Amazing. I guess that's what I needed too. 

And....how can I resist spending time with these tiny girls!!

 

Later on this week I will share what made me smile...Sandra's

photos in Spain. Beautiful! However, no photo anywhere is better than

what you are about to see. How well my grandsons, Alonso  and 

Gabriel, are getting along...It seems they adore each other!

 

Oh Boy! Was I glad I wasn't there...lol! 

 

FATAL ATTRACTION PASSION.

                                                               

                              ***

It's one word Wednesday  at JillsyGirl, where everyone is invited

to participate with a post inpired by one given word each week.

This week's word? Passion. I thought of many passions. I choose one. 

Thank you Jillsy! This was fun!

                                                                           ***    

 Dedicated to all who love with...PASSION...

 

From the moment I set eyes on  you...I desired you intensely. What

strong attraction. Your soft, silky skin called my name. I wanted to

hold you...to caress you ...OH!! What irrational desire to make you mine!

This...was fatal attraction!!

I stood still, admiring your beauty. Should I dare to take you home

with me, or not? My adrenaline was rising...I was loosing control...

All I could think about was you....you...you!!  In a frenzy, blinded by 

my passion, I dared to do it. Not caring whether you would love me

back or not, I reached out to you, and held you tight against my

heart. I said, "I love you...you belong with me"...as I put you in a bag. 

I then took you home with me. 

 

Once home, I took you out of the bag. You laid there...on my kitchen

counter. Oh, the joy!! You were about to be mine forever!! Searching

around the drawers frantically, I found the perfect knife.

Then... passion took over!

I sliced you...not too thick ...not too thin... 

 

 

Next, to keep your beautiful color...and take away any  bitterness

you might have, I bathed you salted water.

 

Back to the bag you went...but, this time with flour to seal your

natural juiciness...

 

Next, I took 3 or 4 eggs, I can't remember...my mind was racing.

I added some salt and beat them well. I thought of adding

some parsley, even some garlic. But, no! Not this time!

You went in. First one side...

 

Then the other...Now, I started heating some delicious 

olive oil in a pan to fry you in.

 

You went in. First one side....

 

 

Then the other....until, all the slices were delicioulsly golden! 

It was time for you and me, baby. You and me! 

I let loose my passion...and ate

the whole eggplant!

*Note* This eggplant is a great side for any pasta dish, or you

can put in in a baking dish, cover it with your favorite tomato sauce, 

sprinkle with Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and bake until  golden

Also, try it in layers, in a lasagna, replacing the noodles with it!

                                      Yum, yum!!!!

 

 

TOO MANY COOKS AND ONE CHICKEN STEW. A RECIPE.

 

Dedicated to my niece Monica, whom I love dearly. You asked 

me for a chicken recipe...you got it!!

 

   BASED ON A TRUE STORY

 

Cuba, 1947. Three brothers, Gabriel, Alfonso, and Emilio, arrive in the island. 

These young Spanish comedians had a contract for 6 months at the local

television station in La Habana. Their show was such a success, and  were so

loved by the Cuban people, they stayed 13 years...and who knows...they would

have stayed longer if it was not for Fidel Castro taking over the Island.

 

That was the "true story"...the rest was inspired by their insane

descendants!

 

But, let's go back in time!

Before Fidel Castro...ruined everything... for everyone.

These fun loving Spaniards, the Aragons, and their families soon

adapted  to the warm climate, the friendly people, and the Cuban

culture...

They were a very large family, with an even larger appetite for good

food. The women loved to cook, and although they felt passionate

about Spanish food, they also loved the delicious Cuban gastronomy.

One day, Monica Aragon, had friends coming over for dinner. She knew

she wanted to serve chicken. After all...who doesn't like chicken?

But...she didn't know if to cook it with Spanish flavors...or  Cuban.

She looked in her pantry. Hmmmm....she had potatoes, onions, garlic,

green pepper, bay leaves, celery, raisins, and Spanish olives.  Could she

actually use all those ingredients? Nah, olives and raisins, didn't sound

too good. She decided to make  baked chicken the Spanish way, Cuban

white rice, and plantains. Perfect! A little of both countries!

She took  the chicken, sprinkled sat and pepper all over, and was about

to rub it with garlic, when she heard someone at the door. She went 

to see who it was.When she opened the door, she said to herself,

Oh, not the milkman!, It's going to take forever, he tries to sell me

more than milk always...

Meantime, her Aunt Maribel, came into the kitchen through the back

door...

"Ay chica, I zee many ingredientz...it muzt be a stew. I will surprize

herr", and startz it fur herr!". She cut the chicken, added salt and

pepper, browned it in olive oil, and when she was ready to add the

garlic...she remembered she had a lunch date with,Ricky Ricardo, a

great conga player. She left in a hurry.

Monica, finally got away from the milk man, who tried also selling her

papayas, eggs, and a pig! She shut the door, the phone rang. It was

her mother. As she spoke to her, Mayte, her sister, came down the

stairs, said "Hola!", and headed to the kitchen. Monica covering the

phone with one hand, said in an alarmed tone, " Mom says dad is

acting like a clown and wants to join a circus!!! Mayte, please, add

the pepper, the onions, and the garlic, to the roasting pan and put

the chicken in the oven, please!!  We got company tonight!" She 

continued calming her mother....

 

Mayte, was looking  at the browned chicken in the pan. Why did

her sister ask her to put in the over? Suddenly, her boyfriend, a

handsome Cuban boy, Andy Garcia, popped his  head through the

kitchen's window, and said to Mayte. "Hola baby, You know...the day

is as beautiful as you...want to come with me to the beach?". She

responded giggling,  "Yes, mi amor, give me a minute, and I will be

right out!"

Mayte had to rush! She put the onion, 1/2 the green pepper, and 2 cloves

of garlic in the blender for a few seconds, poured the mix in the pan, 

By the time Monica finished talking to her mom, she had a headache.

She remembered she was out of aspirin, so she went to her next door

neighbor, Maria,  to see if she had any. Maria, who was the neighborhood

gossiper, insisted she come in for "a moment". Meanwhile, her

Aunt Cary, who was going through a break up, and had been drinking

many ...many ...Mojitos, dropped by for a visit....

The front door was open. Cary, walking in zig zag, entered the

living room, laughed ....then,  called out at the top of her lungs,

"Moni...ca...hic...Moni...hic...caaaaaaaaa! Werrr, ar..hic...uuuuuu?

hmmmm...hic...plobba...hic...bly in der kit..hic..chennnn", and she

stumbled into the empty kitchen. She saw the pan, and said...

"Que es esto? Chic..hic..ken?  Poor...hic...lonely...hic..zing! She

added to the pan, everything in sight! The olives, raisins, celery,

carrots, went in the pan!

She saw spices in little jars. " Now,my little chick..hic...ennn, you willll,

you willll...beee delectalabable!" and she added oregano, cumin, and

a couple of bay leaves. Dizzy..she sat on a chair and fell asleep with her

head tilted back, her arms dangling, and her legs opened wide.

Monica, who returned home with an even worse headache, from

Maria's gossiping, went directly to the kitchen for a glass of water to

take her hard earned aspirins....She opened the door, screamed and 

nearly fainted at the sight of her Aunt. Cary, opened her big, blue

eyes, and said with a creepy smile, "Moni..hic..caaaaaa!". She fell 

asleep again.

Monica dragged an open legged  Aunt Cary, as she could, toward the 

living room. There was a knock at the door. Out of breath she said,

"Whhh....hoo is it?". A voice replied, "Your cousin Mayra!". Monica, asked

her to come in..."Help! Help me with Aunt Cary, let's take her upstairs,

please! Mayra agreed.  One grabbed her legs, the  other, the hands,

and slowly, clumsily, dragged her upstairs. Getting Cary in bed, was

no easy chore either...Monica, called Cary's sister, Juani, to come

pick her up.

Meantime...cousin Ana, came in the house. She smelled the aroma

coming from the kitchen. Food was her passion....immediately, she 

forgot what she was there for. Straight to the kitchen she went!

Ana, saw the pan with the chicken on the stove, and  thought...

Well, that chicken looks dry!! Something is missing. Aaahhh, no color!

She added 1/2 a cup of tomato sauce, a  good splash of white wine,

and about 3/4 cup water. Ana, brought everything to a boil... waited

a couple of minutes, then... lowered the heat, so it would slowly simmer.

The back kitchen door opened once more. Nela, Monica's sister, had

brought some orange juice Monica asked her for earlier that day. 

They both said "Hola! Cousin!" and hugged. 

 

Wondering where Monica was, they went on her search, finding

her upstairs with Mayra, and an opened legged Aunt Cary on the bed.

Monica proceded to tell them what had happened. 

Downstairs...Aunt Juani, came in to see what was going on with 

her sister. She called out, "Girls, I am here". From upstairs, Ana replied,

"Aunt  Juani, check that chicken in the kitchen, before you come up,

please!" Juani, did just that. But, she thought it needed something

else...so, she added a couple of potatoes cut in chunks. Stews should

have potatoes! Looking good, she thought, and went upstairs. Monica

asked, "Is the chicken baked? Is it looking good?" 

 

"Baked chicken?". They all cried out, even Cary...hic.

Monica, wanted to add a touch of her own...green peas.

The chicken with white, and fried plantains was a success

that evening!

 

 

I close my eyes and see...

 

It's Saturday. I am off. After a full morning of organazing, cleaning,

and shooting photos for "Food Stories", I am ready to do something

else. It's a beautiful day. My open windows are letting in a soft breeze.

I sit down on the sofa, and rest my head back on a large pillow. I close

my eyes and see...

  

 

Yes, I see myself living the happy moments I spent with my husband

in Spain. If only I could go back to Rabanal del Camino with him again.

His little home town, in the Region of Leon, captivated me.

 

 

I see myself walking the old streets with Pepe...

 

Admiring the work involved in these  stone walls...

 

 

and finding out there was a street with his last name...Moran.

 Discovering with him such rustic decor...

 

 
 
                              walking inviting paths.... 

  I see pretty flowers... 

  

 And....the windows I fell inlove with...

  

 

 

 I see...and feel the relaxed atmosphere at Pepe's cousin's

pilgrimage stop...what a great place!

 

 

 

 

I could see myself happy with a business like this...away from it all.

And, how could I forget our walk to the river!

 

 
 

But, best of all ...I see my husband open the door to his

grandmother's century old house.It has been closed for so many 

years. What a moment for him...what a moment for me...

 

 

I have to open my eyes now....Do I really have to? Can't I stay with

you Pepe? 

                                 I LOVE YOU
 

                                                                                                                                                                       

                                                                                                                                                     

WEEK 34

Oct. 14-20

                                                                    * Note *

Last week's post actually ended with the start of week 34. After all,

I arrived from Spain, and Sandra was leaving to Spain...It only seemed

logical to bind those 8 days together...at that time.

However, I will post those paragraphs again for the sake of 

chronological order...

(I made some changes in them too)

                                                                                                                           

                                          daDay 1 of week 34

Thursday, morning went by fast. There was some space left in one of 

Sandra's  suitcases. I filled it up with as many of Mayra's belongings 

as I could. (When Mayra moved to Spain she left boxes of dvds, books,

and home decoration with us). Around 2:30 P.M. we left for the airport.

As I am saying, "Finally! You know we are running late", Sandra says,

"Yes, but I need to stop at WalMart". I didn't want to argue anymore.

All I said was, "You sure it's that important?". She answered, "Very!". 

I drove to WalMart and, bit my tongue. Parked the car, and she ran

into the store.  About 20 minutes later she came out in a hurry with

a small bag in her hand. She opened it as I took off ready to hit 

I-85. She took a nail clipper out of the bag, and asked, "Will they

consider this a weapon at the airport?" She proceeded to fix a broken

nail...

We made it just in time. Sandra and an unsuspecting Alonso, were

about to leave in what I hope is a life changing trip for Sandra. We 

moved to Georgia when she was 12 years old, and she has been back

twice before. However, this time she has to make up her mind

if she wants to stay in the U.S. when I leave...or, move back with us.

Now, it was time hug, kiss, and wish them a great flight...

 

I am hoping to clean...do laundry...write some recipes...and have

a garage sale next week. We'll see. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

So how did the rest of the week go?

 

It's been very interesting. Next morning, Sandra called to say

she made it well, and she had a good flight, although she stressed

out at take off, when Alonso started screaming, and squirming in his

seat...

                                             At home.

I have caught up with all the laundry, put in order every kitchen

cabinet and drawers, cleaned celing fans, floors, gone through a box

of bills, cooked for my food stories...

My friend's husband returned my lawnmower. It couldn't be fixed...

 

I  miss my husband more and more, with each phone conversation, 

with each day that passes by...and, I am trying not to feel down,

but...I am. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROAMING BUFFALO RUB

 

 

The full moon reflected it's beauty on Lake Karikaquaw. A member

of the Kickapoo tribe, Wanna Man In Her Tepee, sighed looking 

at the silver reflection on the still waters. She thought of the man

she loved for so long in silence, Keeper of the Flame. If only his

big, brown eyes would notice her, but...HOW? He only had eyes for

She Who Has Big Breasts! She wished upon a falling star that she

might find a way into his heart, then got up from the soft, moonlit

grass, and headed back to her lonely tepee.

 

The next morning, Chief Don't Ruffle My Feathers, gathered his

people. He  announced that his son, Wild Hunter, had captured

during the night a strange white man. The Chief made a signal with 

his hand, and let out a loud grunt. Out of his tepee, Wild Hunter, 

brought forward, with hands and ankles tied with deer skin, a chubby,

little, old man with a look of panic on his face.

Chief said, "Silence!", and asked his Co-Chief ...Visions After Smoking

to speak. 

He said, "How".

Everyone answered in a chorus, "How!!".

Visions After Smoking just stood there. Blank. Chief Don't Ruffle

My Feathers smacked him on the head.

"Ouch! I had a vision..................."

Everyone was waiting eagerly, watching his rolling eyes.

The Chief, smacked him on the head again.

"Ouch! I had a vision.......a vision....a vision...."

Chief Don't Ruffle My Feathers' feathers were getting ruffled... He

raised his hand, and was ready to smack him a third time when

Visions After Smoking, opened his eyes wide and said:

"We do not kill the dude. We must learn from him, for more dudes

are coming! Ummmm...Ummmm....wait! The purple, laughing

squirrel in the sky says Wanna Man In Her Tepee must learn

the pale dude's language! Let it be so....Peace and Love." 

Everyone applauded.

Wanna Man In Her Tepee's jaw dropped. What had she done to 

deserve this! But, she had to do...what she had to do. Maybe this new

venture would keep her from daydreaming with Keeper Of The Flame.

Everyday from then on, she spent trying to communicate with the little

old man. 

His name was Antonio Banderitas, He did nothing to run away, and

was friendly. He also observed how Wanna, as he called her, looked

with love at Keeper Of The Flame. He was a romantic at heart,

and wanted to help her. He planted an herb garden with seeds he

had kept in his pocket, as he was the cook of a Spanish expedition. 

When the time came, he called Wanna, and took her to the garden.

 

Months went by....and they learned each other's language.

"I have seen how you look at Keeper Of The Flame. I want to help

you win his heart." He said softly, with a Spanish accent. 

"My heart belongs to him! But, he does not know I exist...and...two

warriors, Dances With Dogs and He Who Has Teeth Like Beaver, have

showed interest in me! I must settle for one...and forget about my

true love!".

"Child! Never settle for a man you don't love!" He took a basket, 

and started placing the fresh herbs, and garlic in it.

"Come now, I must show you!" 

(This is oregano, cumin, garlic, black pepper...and, chicken

bouillion. And, yes, they are dried. Just for the purpose of the story

you can imagine them fresh!)

Antonio, mashed all the ingredients well, then added olive oil.(When

Wild Hunter captured him he was cooking and did not let go of his

 precious olive oil.) He blended everything well and made a paste.

 

He bought a nice roaming buffalo leg at the local meat market 

tepee, and had it ready.(You can use pork, like I do...who has

an oven for a buffalo leg!)

He rubbed the herbs and spices all over the meat....

He cut some slits on the buffalo, and rubbed in the herbs and

spices...

 

Then, he added carrots, onions, and green pepper...to the pan.

 

Antonio, added plenty of water to the pan, and covered it well...then

he put it in an enormous oven! 

"Wanna, this rub will be the key to Keeper Of The Flame's heart! You

will conquer him...forever ...with your cooking!". He said with a big smile.

 

All the men of the tribe wanted to taste the roast...but, she said it was

only for her true love, and handed a plate to Keeper Of The Flame.

 

The rest is history...they were happily married for many, many, many

silver moons...

                   =====================

Recently, a drawing of Wanna Man In Her Tepee, on her wedding day..

has been recovered from an old Indian site. I will share it with you!

The way to a man's heart is

through his stomach!!

 

 

WEEK 33

 

I AM BACK HOME.

I AM BACK TO WORK.

I AM BACK TO A MESS.

 

Week 33 started on a Thursday. Not just any Thursday, mind you. It

 was the Thursday after my arrival in Atlanta. I sat in the living room

with a cup of coffee in my hand. My body here. My mind in Spain. Now, 

it was  all about waiting. Waiting for February, so I could see my

husband again. But, I needed to get going...pick up my room,take out

my clothes from the suitcases, see what else had to be done around

the house. Make a list of what I needed to do during this week. Not

that I wanted to do any of that. I was beat, physically from the the

lack of sleep, the 10 hour flight, the two hours and a half of waiting

for Sandra at the airport, the two hour drive  home and, emotionally 

because I missed my husband already.

Thank God, I decided to take one more vacation day to rest and settle

back in my home... Although, settling in ... was more unsettling

than anything. My daughter Sandra, tried as best as she could to

deal with the house by herself. Except, that...well...when I asked

her about certain things that were supposed to have gotten done...

she forgot, didn't know about it, or simply wasn't going to deal with

that "stuff". I especially liked what she did with some of my plants.

There is no need to water them anymore. Now I have low maintenance

dried arrangements.

 

On the other hand, my lawn had grown green, tall, and wild.  I had

to avoid the windows in order not to stress out. I decided to go

downstairs. The couple that had been renting the  "apartment"

had moved out without notice last week and I wanted to check

if it was as bad as Sandra told me over the phone. It was. I wanted

to cry. I looked at the filthy kitchen cabinets, the dirty tile floors, the

nasty carpet in the bedroom. I ran out and locked the door. Forget

that today! I was so glad I had little Alonso to brighten up my day.

Otherwise, I would  have locked myself in my bedroom.

As for the rest of the week. On Friday 8th, I went back to work, and

would not have another day off until Thursday 14th. It was nice to

work again,except for the Arctic temperature in my department, and 

of course...the pain in my legs from standing up eight hours.

In the evenings I took care  of Alonso, whom I enjoyed tremendously

since I had missed him so while I was away. On the other hand....

I certainly did not miss Sandra's procrastinating... For weeks she

knew she needed to get a second suitcase, but she didn't show

up with it until Wednesday evening. Her flight was next day. Our

differences in ways of handling matters, and our nerves lead to a lock

of horns I'd rather forget, but can't right now because I am still hurt. 

                              FIRST DAY OF WEEK 34

 Thursday morning went by fast. There was some space left in one of 

the suitcases, and I filled it up with as many of Mayra's belongings 

as I could. (When Mayra moved to Spain she left boxes of dvds, books,

and home decoration with us). Around 2:30 P.M. we left for the airport.

We made it just in time. Sandra and an unsuspecting Alonso, were

about to leave in what I hope is a life changing trip for Sandra. We 

moved to Georgia when she was 12 years old, and she has been back

twice before. However, this time she has to make up her mind

if she wants to stay in the U.S. when I leave...or move back with us.

Now, it was time hug, kiss, and wish them a great flight...

 

I am hoping to clean...do laundry...write some recipes...and have

a garage sale next week. We'll see. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MASTER OF MY DOMAIN

My son's Artwork...

Christopher Alvarez Aragon, you are an amazing artist...

I knew it since you were 4 years old, and painted the hallways

of our home with crayons...

MASTER OF MY DOMAIN, is my son's blog. Check it out,

and enjoy his artwork!!!

          http://www.rolling-walrus.blogspot.com/ . 

WEEK 32

Week 32

 

On Thursday, October 7th, a day after arriving in Atlanta, I am back to

my weekly count. So far 32 weeks since Pepe left to Spain. How many

more? Only God knows...

Meantime I will blog, and I will write new recipes...in hopes of 

publishing my zany cookbook. The day before I left Spain, I made

a huge bowl of rice pudding for Raul, my son-in-law. Come to think 

of it PSYCHIATRIC WARD RICE PUDDING is the perfect recipe

to remember my family with! There is never a dull moment when

we get together....

 

Tomorrow Thursday 14th, will make 33 weeks...I will tell about my

first week back home, and what I am hoping to accomplish in the 

next few weeks....

IN SPAIN. DAY 23. TIME TO SAY GOODBYE.

 

DAY 23

OCTOBER 6

 

It was 6 A.M. when the phone rang. As requested, a hotel clerk, was

letting us know it was time to "rise and shine". In our case...

it was more like  "rise and cry". Because, that is exactly what we did.

Knowing this would be the last time we would be together as a

couple, until next February. We stayed a litter longer in bed....just

embracing...

 After getting ready, we went to Mayra's to say goodbye. Her house

was still....quiet....Raul and the kids, asleep. It was better that

way. It was already hard enough to say goodbye to Mayra. I wondered,

when would be the next time we would be together...

 

Pepe started the car. I started sobbing. My forehead started pounding.

Pepe sat there...looking helpless not knowing how to console me.

Fearing a migraine I asked Pepe, not to move the car, and went back

to Mayra's so I could take something for my nerves. Thank goodness

my Doctor had prescribed a medication in case of an anxiety attack.

I kept it in case of an emergency...This was the time to take it, I

really needed to calm down...

 

Pill in hand, I got out of the car and walked toward Mayra's building.

I didn't want Mayra to see me like that, so I blew my nose, wiped

my tears, and pretended to be better than I was. I pressed the 

main door's intercom, there was a "buzz", and I opened the main

door to the hallway. Down the hallway I saw her open her door and 

pop her head out, looking worried. I put on a funny Cuban accent, 

the one we always use to fool around, and said " Ay, chica!!! I am

back!!!". We both laughed...I asked her for a glass of water to take

that pill, and gave her one more hug.

 

We were quiet in the car during the ride to Barajas Airport, in Madrid.

Traffic as always, was bad. The line at Delta, even worse. Seeing

the clock ticking, terrible. Saying goodbye, horrendously painful. 

 

Delta flight 109 to Atlanta, Georgia, took off right on time at 11:30 A.M. 

on the dot. As I peeked out the window I thought about everyone I 

was leaving behind. I thought about everyone I would be seeing 

when I arrived. I closed my eyes, rested my head against the

window, and thought about how well I named this blog. Yes, I 

couldn't have chosen better....Between U.S.A. and Spain. 

 

 

IN SPAIN. DAY 22. MY LAST DAY....

 

DAY 22 

OCTOBER  5

 

  
 

I could write so  much about this day....and, post so many photos.

However, I need to simplify. Time is of the essence. I am actually

in the U.S., and I am finding difficult to catch up with my day by day

stay in Spain....Yet, this is how our day turned out...

It's Tuesday. Pepe and I decided last night to do one more trip. I 

choose the great city of TOLEDO! It's only 45 minutes away from

Mayra's home...Why not!

 

 We had a great time...bought some souvenirs...and I, of course 

took photos.

 

  
 

Although....I wish...I really wish...I had a good camera to capture

these fantastic sights. Oh, well....it is, what it is...and now I will post

some photos so all can see the beauty of this city!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 During our visit, I noticed the amount of tourist, and guided tours!

I wondered....if I could become a guide tour.

 

Hmmmmm....I would like that too. I love to learn...and love to talk....

and, I speak English. When I get back home I MUST google this line

of work!!!

 

Before leaving Toledo, Pepe and I, sat at the main plaza and had

some ice cream while we people watched.

 

 

 
  
   
Oh....how I love to do that. Although, it seems...Pepe was

actually observing me while I observed people! He surprised me when

he said, " I love the way your white hair looks...it makes you such

an interesting woman". Oh, Lord!!! Please,  I thought it was wonderful...

but, I cracked up laughing!!!!!!

 

 

Before we left we bought Mayra her favorite sweets from Toledo, and

took one more look at the impressive city. I love Toledo...

 

 

 
  

Who woudn't fall in love with Toledo! Any street you walk through is

magnificent!

  

Once home, I gave Mayra her sweets, and a necklace I bought for her.

She is always so thankful, even for little things. She ended up crying

and hugging me....she is so emotional. I wonder who she took after....

 

I love you Mayra....you are so special to me. Thank you for all the

love you have always given us! Thank you for taking care of your

dad for me....

  

In the kitchen, as Mayra and I engaged in conversation, little Gabriel

seeing that we were distracted made this big, big, mess!

 

Now, It was time to finish packing....and enjoy our last night with

Mayra, Raul, Alberto, and Gabriel. But,  before I left I wanted to make

the rice pudding that Raul loves so much...so he would have a sweet

memory of his mother in law...he, he, he....and for dinner the cod

fritters Mayra loves....

Oh, and a super fun photo shoot with Alberto!!!
 

 
  

Altogether, I  sure had a full day! I am very, very, happy to have

been with my husband...with my family and friends!!! I love

you!!!!! All of you!!!!!

 

Later that night, Pepe and I, stayed at the other hotel in town,

"Las Estrellas", which means The Stars, Sigh....Sigh.....Sigh.........

If I  had to give this night a name it would be "Love and Tears".

And, that's all....I can't write anymore....I am not feeling well...

I can't see  anything from  the tears, anyway.

 

 

 

IN SPAIN. DAY 21.

 

DAY 21

OCTOBER 4

 

Last night I took a sleeping pill. I didn't want to stay up during

the night thinking. I really needed to ensure some sleep. Too much

going on...I have only 2 days until I leave Spain, and head back to

U.S.A. I also didn't want to think about the funeral, and how sad 

Belen must have been feeling. I know well how it feels. It was 

better to sleep.

 

However, this morning it was time to be there for Belen. My husband, 

who only needed to receive a shipment of products at work, came over

at 10 A.M. Maribel, Juanca, Pepe, and  I, had breakfast at a cafeteria

close to their home before heading to the 11 A.M. funeral Mass.

How sad to see Belen, and her brothers say goodbye to their mom...

 

After the Mass, Pepe and I,  needed to go to a nearby shopping center

to buy our son Christopher a book he had asked for. While there

we got a call from my nieces that they were taking Belen and her

sister, to lunch and asked us to join them at at "Jardin Pizza" ,

in Majadahonda.

 

It was a very nice lunch. I knew this would the last time I would

be seeing my nieces, and most likely my sisters too...But, we 

didn't really say goodbyes. We avoided that. Except with  Belen, 

who kept hugging me, and telling me how glad she was to have 

had us in such a hard moment. I was glad to be there too...she is

a great person....and has such a great heart! 

 

Later that day, Pepe and I, wanted to check out one more town

close to Brunete, the one we would like to live in, since we were

told house prices were good. Ah, we did....the town was cute, and

loved the country view from the road, going to Quijorna, but...the

curves and more curves, ahhhhhhh...no, thanks!

 

Since Quijorna was only 10 minutes from my sister Cary's home

I figured we could go and have coffee with them. It was nice

to be at her house again, and have a more intimate time with 

her and her boyfriend. When it was time to leave, they gave

me a box with two excellent white wines and four  fantastic bottles

of the most exquisite virgin olive oil! 

 

This time....Cary and I, said goodbye...until the next trip!

 

IN SPAIN. DAY 20. ADRI'S BIRTHDAY...

 

DAY 20

OCTOBER 3

 

It's Sunday...and the day started out wonderfully, with Raul

bringing churros, porras and that great, hot, thick, Spanish chocolate

I talked about in an earlier blog.(I made sure I took photos so I could

post them with this blog. However, for some reason I am not able

to download the photos....)

 

During breakfast we talked about my niece Adriana's birthday. She

turns 25 today, and we...of course, have been invited to her home

in Alcorcon. Another family get together, except this time it's a smaller

group...more on "our" side of the family and Adri's in-laws. 

 

Later on we had a nice lunch at home, and played with the kids. 

When it was time we went to Adri's. Alberto, as always went with 

Pepe and me, in our car. He loves Yayo's car...I love talking with him

during the rides.

 

What was promising to be a great birthday party for my niece, turned

out a very sad occasion. A couple of minutes after our arrival, we were

told that Belen had just called to inform them her mother, who had

 been sick for some time,  had just passed away. Belen...Belen...I

have known her since she was 15 years old. More than the friend

of my nieces, she is part of my family! We were in shock...and 

would be going to the funeral home as soon as Belen called to let

us know she was there. 

 

Feeling terrible for my niece, we tried to pep up for her and, as hard

as it was, put aside for the moment what we would be facing later on

that evening. We put a happy face, and kept our sadness tucked in

our hearts.  Adriana, got to blow the candles of her chocolate cake,

and open her presents surrounded by her family clapping and cheering

for her. After all...she was turning 25, and she deserved to enjoy

her birthday.

 

When we were having coffee, Belen called. She was at the funeral 

home. It was time to go. And, so we did....all of us,except Mayra and

Raul who had the kids,  left at the same time to be with Belen, in such a

hard moment...

 

Unbelievable as it seems....Pepe and I found ourselves once more

at the funeral home, next to the cemetery in Alcorcon. The same

one we had been at for Marian, two weeks ago. I couldn't help but

think, that in 3 days it would be October 6th. On that day, and at

that same place, eight years ago...we gathered when my mom

passed away....

 

We stayed nearly until midnight with Belen. My husband needed to 

work the next morning, so he left...and I slept over at my sister Maribel's 

so we could go to the funeral the next day.

 

In life you never know how a day is going to end....

IN SPAIN. DAY 19.

DAY 19

OCTOBER 2

 

We had a blast at Pili's home. The company was fantastic,

the food was awesome....but, the laughter was the best!!!

 

It is well known that a picture says a million words....therefore,

with the next picture you will get an idea of our fun day at my

cousin Pili's!!!!!!!

 

 

What an awesome family I have...and all

so beautiful!!!!!!!!!

 

After a great afternoon at Pili's we were heading home, when Raul had a

great idea...a sunset walk by "The Towers" in Madrid. When Raul and

Mayra moved to Spain, his first job was at these beautiful, modern, towers.

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

IN SPAIN. DAY 18.

 

DAY 18

OCTOBER 1

 

 Today was just an easy going day. I cooked the black beans

and the picadillo for tomorrow's lunch at Pili's home. The rest

of the day, I enjoyed being at home with Mayra and the kids.

 

In the evening Pepe came home from work, but he was exhausted...

it was time to spend an evening at home and relax....we have 

been running around for days and our bodies are feeling it! 

IN SPAIN. DAY 17.

 

DAY 17

SEPTEMBER 30

 

A few days ago my cousin, Pili,  invited my sisters and I, plus our husbands, children,

and grandchildren,  to her flat in Madrid next Saturday. Each family's will be bringing

a Cuban dish. I love Cuban food...yum, yum...But, I love even more the idea of

spending some time with my cousin, who is very special to me. I am very excited also,

to get to know her daughter Vir, whom I haven't seen since she was a child, her family,

and to see again my dear Uncle Emilio and Aunt Rita!

 

I  was assinged "Picadillo". A very flavorful, ground beef stew. Cary, brings 

white rice, Maribel the black beans, Aunt Rita.... the yuca with mojo, Pili the

avocado salad, plantains, and the guayaba desserts. I can see my plate already!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

                                          Later on this afternoon.... 

Wow, my  sister, Maribel,  today has been diagnosed  with bronchitis. My sister,

Cary, is also with a bad cold...(she is convinced that  Maribel passed her "germs"

on to her, during last Saturday's get together). So far I am safe. That's a first

for me, because I have ALWAYS come down with colds during my trips to Spain. 

 

So....there has been some changes.  Let me tell you...Maribel was bringing

the black beans. Right? Notice I said WAS. Due to being so sick, the black beans

were re-assigned to Cary,  along with the white rice that goes with it. But, Cary

has called me just know, and....sounds terrible from her cold! I mean real sick, and

it is Thursday.  That means  the beans would have to left soaking tonight in order

to cook them tomorrow, Friday.  I felt terrible, and  didn't want her to have to drive

all the way to  Maribel's....when you have a cold, it takes away your will to do 

anything!

 

Result of the conversation: I said, " Relax, and stop worrying about the beans! I

will swing by Maribel's and pick them up. O.K." Cary thanked me as she coughed and

blew her nose....

 

Next thing my husband heard was,  " Honey...we have to go to Alcorcon, and

pick up a bag of black beans". He asked why not buy some in the super market

2 blocks away. I said, "Because, these black beans are special to my cousin

Pili...she brought them from Miami, and they are supposed to be the best.

AND, because if it makes her happy....that's what we will do". 

 

I picked up my purse....and we went out the door. On our way we stopped

at  McDonald's  to eat, since I didn't want Maribel cooking for us, feeling

the way she was. 

 

Picking up those beans gave me a great excuse to spend a little more time

with Maribel and her boyfriend, Juanca.  As always the conversations were

fun and we laughed a lot....so much as a matter of fact, I remembered the 

to ask for the black beans as we were about to open the elevator door!

 

There was silence at Mayra's home when Pepe opened the door. Everyone was

sleeping. I tip toed to the kitchen.....looked for a bowl....poured the black beans

in it....rinsed them well under water...I poured enough water to let them soak

and double their size during the night...and, set the bowl on the kitchen counter.

 

As I turned off the kitchen light ....I said, " Good night my little black beans. I will 

cook you tomorrow, and you will be delicious..."

IN SPAIN. DAY 16.

 

DAY 16

SEPTEMBER 29

 

Back in Ciempozuelos....

 

AHhhhhhhhhhhggggggghhhhhhhhh!!!! As Sylvester Stallone once said,

in Rambo, "I can't feel my legs". How much did we walk in the past 3 days?

Who knows! All I know is it was wonderful.....magical....and, would do it all over

again!!! 

Yesterday alone, we went from Santa Colomba de Somoza, to Rabanal. In 

Rabanal, we had coffee with his family at the pilgrim's rest stop, and chatted. 

Oh, I met the nicest young man from Australia, who had finished his Pilgrim

walk to Santiago and was going back home. I could see myself running a business

like this. After all...with my English I could talk to most tourist, and I could run

the restaurant....because I can cook too! This would be a nice way of living....

While we had coffee with Pepe's cousins, we were given the keys to Pepe's

grandmother's house, and was that an adventure! The century old house has

been closed for years...and it's falling apart. No electricity, so the light through

 the cracked wood  windows, and Pepe's lighter were our guide! Afterward, the walk

to the river, and wonderful lunch with Pepe's cousin and uncles. 

After lunch, we took off to Astorga, once more...what's another 20 Km? I bought

souvenirs and bars of their famous chocolate. Do you know that centuries ago,

when Spain conquered Mexico, Spaniards, brought cocoa from Mexico, to Spain?

The Aztec's most precious drink, became so popular in Spain, that  later on in time

in Astorga, the first factory was created to make chocolate bars? Amazing, ha?

 

After buying our souvenirs, we went back home, arriving just in time for dinner

with Mayra and Raul. We talked, and shared our experiences, then...we crawled

to bed! 

 

So, today...I have been trying to take it easy, even though, I have had to keep

walking...stiff as a pole... around town with Mayra. How can I just stay home while

she's out and about town doing groceries, picking up the kids, etc.  Oh, one of 

our stops was to see Raul's grandmother, whom I love, and lives in town! What

a nice visit we had! 

 

After, picking up the kids from school, and day care.... I couldn't move anymore.

Pepe got home from work around 6 P.M and we just stayed home! 

 

OUR LEGS...OUR LEGS....WE CAN'T FEEL OUR LEGS!!!!!!!!

 

IN SPAIN. DAY 15. A WALK TO THE RIVER...

 

DAY 15

SEPTEMBER 28

 

Casa Pepa in Santa Colomba de Somoza.

                                            www.casapepa.com

 

I slept like a baby last night! What a cozy room. What

an awesome bed. Pepe and I, were in heaven. If only we

could stay there a few more days...We vowed to return again

some day...But, now it was time to get going. Breakfast was

 included with the stay, therefore...yum, yum, yum....I was

dying to have some fantastic coffee, and  see "Casa Pepa", 

with the morning light!!! Hmmmmm.....I must take the

camera with me!

                             Check out the key!!!

 

Looks nice already, ha?

 

 All authentic.....

 

take a look at this!!!

 

We must come back...

 

After a great breakfast, and a nice chat with the owner, Pepa,

Pepe and I, headed once again to Rabanal del Camino. This

time his Aunt and cousin were there. They gave us the key to

Pepe´s grandmother´s old  house. That in itself was worth

the trip to Leon. When I go back to Georgia I will post those

photos. But, today I will post the walk to the river. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Two fifty year old, feeling like they were sixteen, decided

to take a walk to the river....

I said, "Pepe, please take me to the river were you went to swim

when you  were a kid!".

He said, "Juani... it´s about a 2 Km walk downhill.  That´s easy...

but, then we must come up hill.....Are you sure?"

We start our journey. Right outside the town...

somewhere down there, we own some land...

Pepe said, "From here, it´s all down hill...hurry!"

I said, "Yes, baby, but ...I am in awe. Let me  stop and

admire this sight!!! What is this surreal ocean like path, we

are standing on?" 

-"Straw", he replied. 

 

I said, "Pepe...in case we get lost...are these edible?"

 

Pepe replied, "No, but these are!"

Pepe said with excitment, Ah, getting closer...but, we need

to reach the area where the tall, Black Poplars are!
 

 

 

 

 

 

There was magic in the air, as the 

soft breeze, made the leaves of the 

tall Poplars whisper ...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Juani, I got a stick for you ...

it will help you walk this

area!"

 

"Cool!!! I always wanted to 

do this...I feel like a native

of this slopes", I said while

I jumped up and down, like

a child....

 

 

 

- And this was the mill, Juani. There were two, actually. People

from town would come down from town to make flour from

their wheat. 

-What a sight it must have been, Pepe!

I closed my eyes, took a deep breath of the wonderful, fresh,

mountain air, and imagined what life most have been like back

when Rabanal was still a busy town, full of life.... 

"Look, Juani, right here was my favorite spot...but the river

was wider then...."

Still a pretty sight...but, I can imagine it even more beautiful 32

years ago....

 

So peaceful...

Awwww....I said, do we really have to go back. YOU DO know

how to go back, right Pepe?

 

Gasp..."Pepe! We are lost....aren´t we?"

 

"Juani, I found the way!!! I can see the town

from here, yay!!!"

 

Then we heard a tractor...and found the path to town!

 

                     ALL IS WELL ....THAT ENDS WELL

As we walked back, I said, "I got a little worried back there, honey,....

Thank goodness there are no wolves in the area any more!"

Pepe replied, "Well....there are no more wolves, because there are

 hardly any sheep in the area...But, what I was worried about, and didn´t

tell you is ...there are plenty of...WILD BOARS!" 

IN SPAIN. DAY 14. PART 2...Rabanal del Camino!

 

DAY 14 

PART 2. PLEASE READ PART 1 FIRST!

IN SPAIN. DAY 14. More of Leon, and Astorga. PART 1

 

How exciting to share such a special moment with Pepe....After 32  years,

he was visiting the little town where he spent the happiest summers of  his

childhood,  swimming in the river....climbing the hills ...taking the family´s

sheep out to pasture...playing  the bells of the old church on Sundays...

 

 

Leaving EL Ganso...in about 6 Km, we will be in Rabanal!

 

 

The church outside the town welcomes us...

 

AHA! Main street...the place we were looking for!

As you go into town, Pepe´s cousin, Pilar,

has a rest stop for pilgrims. This used

to be their home. Well, still is but it

has been transformed into a business.

 

Look what a relaxed atmosphere....

They didn´t have to go shopping for decorations....they owned 

everything....

And in Georgia they think Hydrangeas are from the South...lol!!!

Money from all parts of the world left by pilgrims...I could buy an

airplane ticket with that!!!!! lol....

 

The walk I was waiting for!!!!!!

 

wow!

 

Window...I love you. Can I take you home with me?

my....my....

The 13th century church my husband went to.

I imagined my husband, as a 10 year old, running up these stairs to ring 

the bells on Sunday....

 

Pear trees everywhere.....

 

 
Apples too.....

I couldn´t believe when walking outside the town, Pepe, recognized the 

voices of a couple walking far away from us. When Pepe approached them

the couples are the parents of a childhood friend of Pepe´s. Right on this

field they played soccer! Country folks...are the best! 

Finding out what´s behind....

Being me....

 My favorite street!!!!!!!!!!

The Iron Cross, is about 5 miles from Rabanal.My husband has a photo at this

iron cross when he was 18 years old.Pilgrims leave a rock with their name or

an object ....

 

I kid you not...see?

Leaving our names....

On the way back to town...I had to stop and talk to the cows....

 

From the Iron Cross back to town. This is is Aunt Sinda´s house....

Love it....

That evening, we left Rabanal, and went to the next town 6 Km away.

We stayed at a Rural House called Casa Pepa. I WAS IN HEAVEN.

We had a grea dinner and then the room.....AHHHHHHHH.....the room!!!

Nothing is fake...all is solid...and for real...

I loved the window....

A thick, 100%  wool curtain covered the massive, wood door. Very typical of the

region. See the beds? Not fancy...however, they were the best bed I have slept in...

the covers are so  different from the States, which are usually so plush, and soft.

But, I wish....I wish you could feel the country comfort...the pillows...the soft

linen...the impeccable Spanish tile floors....the feel of the room! How clean...

no carpet odors...no odors stuck to the sheet rock... no need of air fresheners....

no need for air condition...just REAL  freshness!!!

The bathroom was AWESOME!!! Darn I was so excited I moved the camera!!!

In the morning we planned to go back to Rabanal del Camino, to check

out Pepe´s  grandmother´ s house, the land Pepe inherited from

his father...and a walk to the river....

 

IN SPAIN. DAY 14. More of Leon, and Astorga. PART 1.

DAY 14

SEPTEMBER 27

 

Before left to see the city of Astorga, I had to see some more

of Leon. 

 

Hmmmm....I want to see soooo many places!

 

Today is about walking the narrower streets!

LOL!!! You really have to know how to drive in Spain!!!

No 16 year old getS a driver license...it´s a tough thing

to get! 

 

What a cool street...

 

 

YIKES!!! Incredible....

 

Aha! We found La Virgen del Mercado, a 12th century church of 

Romanesque style, that I could not leave without seeing!. Romanesque

style lasted from the 9th century A.D. until the 12th century A.D.

 

I wondered about life in the 12th Century....the people that built this

church...that walked these streets...

 

 The plaza where the church is....

 

 How lovely....

 

 Curious me....

 Stone markings from the builders....

 I wish!!! lol!!!

 And of course....a coffe break before we go to Astorga!

 

Anywhere you go ... there is great coffee!

We leave Leon, the capital of the region of LEON. Now, we have

69 kilometers to go... and we will be in Astorga!

 In Astorga , (another city of Leon)...we parked our car by this quaint park...

 A statue in honor of  Our Mother Mary....

Throughout Leon, there are many places where people doing the Pilgrimage

to Santiago, can rest.  One day ....Pepe and I,  hope to do this ancient route.

Check out this web:

 León -- Pilgrimage to Santiago stages

 

  

People doing the Pilmigrage can rest in these houses for about 5 Euros a day.

Bagpacks say: Pilgrim ...come in and rest!

"Just and old door"....

 

 Architect? GAUDI!!! Awesome, like everything he designed....

 AHHHHHHH!!!!

 

 And...the Cathedral of Astorga, from the right side....

 

 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

 I wish I could  capture more detail....

 

 Wish I could have seen it from the inside....

 

 The carvings are amazing!!!

 

 Check out the door....

 

 

It was such a beautiful day, that we decided to do a picnic at a park

close to the Cathedral.....THIS IS LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  What a perfect day..... what a nice lunch!!!

 

 Dessert, anyone?

 Thirsty....come and drink!

 

 And now....off to Pepe´s  ancestors town!!! 

 

The way of Santiago....After "El Ganso¨

comes: RABANAL DEL CAMINO, Pepe´s

little old town. 

 

Pilgrims, this way to El Ganso. NO CARS ALLOWED on this road!

IN SPAIN. DAY 13. ROAD TRIP!

 

DAY 13

SEPTEMBER 26

 

Part 1:  The trip.

Last week while watching television, I saw the Cathedral of Leon. 

My heart pounded when I saw how majestic it was.There was

celestial bliss as the sunshine trasspassed the jaw dropping

stain glass windows!!! With eyes wide open, and excitment

in my voice, I exclaimed, "Pepe, I must see it, I simply must

 see it,and from there we go to you rhome town of Rabanal del

Camino!".My husband said, we would go anywhere I desired,

so..on Sunday morning off we went!

 

 Let´s go to LEON!

Only one stop to have breakfast....

 

And...some lottery. If we don´t win anything, at least it´s 

a nice keepsake of the Region of Leon!

 

We later stopped once more to strectch our legs...I wondered

about this land. How would the city be?

 

Oh, wow! As we entered the city of Leon, this fountain welcomed

us!

 

We found our hotel quickly. This was our view.

 

Part 2: The walk.

 

First photo....Isn´t it just beautiful? Wait until you see the

rest. I actually took 1,200 photos this trip...No, I won´t post

all!

 

 

 Walking up this street we will get to the Cathedral.

Let´s see some of what´s on our way....

 

What a building....

 
 

 what about this one!

 

 

 What an unusual balcony...I love it!

 

 

 I have never seen geraniums this large!

 

 

 Oh, how I love fountains!

  

This walk is getting better and better....hmmmmm....

 

What a nice plaza!!!

 

 a closer look at the balconies...

 

 Nice leg.....

 

There was an exposition to raise money for the miners. Leon is well

known for its mines.

 

Miners showing how they work the opening of mines...

What a lovely building.....

 

 

 

 

 

How beautiful...and there

is a little train that gives

a tour. Next time I will

ride on it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Getting closer...I can imagine these outside cafes will be bursting

in the afternoon!

 The flowers in the balconies were amazing....

 I can see the Cathedral at the end of the street!

 

I´m in love with the light fixtures....

 

Part 3: The Cathedral 

 

 OH MY!!! OH MY!!!  YOU HAVE TO BE HERE TO SEE THIS !!!

 

 BREATHTAKING....

 

 WHAT CAN I SAY....

 

 ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS.

 

 AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!

 

 OOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

 

 CONSIDERED ONE OF THE BEST STAIN GLASS WINDOWS IN THE WORLD!

 

Have you ever read the book "Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett?

It makes you appreciate even more when you see this beauty.

 

 

  But, let´s push this door and go in...

 

It was very dark...but I am glad at least I can show a few photos!

This is the main ALTAR.

 The detail!!! So many centuries ago....and still standing!

 

This is ART!!!

AWESOME!!!!!!!! I am not saying anything else...just admire!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Look at the heighth!!!

This is a window on the side....

Now this is the main one!!!

Check out the detail...you can stand for hours admiring, and observing the 

changes in color as the sun iluminates it!

 

Part 4: The walk back.

 

 

See? Everyone is out and about in the aftenoon!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What a pleasant atmosphere!

 

 

 

Incredible the amount of people walking....WHO NEEDS A CAR!

 

 

 

I have fallen in love with this

city, and have left part of my 

heart in the Cathedral. Tomorrow

we will walk around other parts

of Leon, and then go to the 

city of ASTORGA.