Aug 2008

This is a great city. We arrived last night.

After, leaving malaga, we travelled to Ronda- this is described as a white town. The town is one of a few in the mountains. Joe did a great job manuevering all the twists and turns- even with a camera in his hand. Ronda is a great place to visit. Nice views and we went to the bullfight museum. We left and went through more mountains and these white towns. It is amazing to imagine anyone getting there to live and build without these new roads.

The roads here are awesome. All new and without traffic. A great decision to drive Spain.

We are staying in a beautiful hotel. The Hotel Alfonso XIII. It is a reored palaceJin the heart of Sevilla. Two nights were needed in one place. There are great little winding roads and fantastic gardens, palaces, squares ect.

Today Joe and I separated- I'm a morning person and wanted to take pictures before everyone started for the day. In Spain, 10 am is early. After walking and exploring the area, went to the pool and siesta. I'm a big fan of this custom.

Tonight dinner and on road to Portugal. We planned a coastal route to Lisbon. J

Have no idea if this will work out.

I started my trip on a nice relaxing schedulez- after i figured out compression bags. I spent the mornimg bondimg with Sadie and Simon. I had an emergency run to the Vet due to Simon the day before I left. The big monster received a nasty bee sting in his eye. A session of adult water with Jeffrey made me forget my stress.

I thought the fun started when I thought my flight was at 2:25pm- I was wrong it was 12:25 pm and I was off running. Yes my luggage was hwavy just over 70 pound max.

Made my plane with starbucks too. Arrived in Mizmi and my brother was comfy in Admirals club. We had a great flight. The Madrid airport was so impressive and added to the excitement.

After the car servive dropped us off the real fun started. As we checked into the hotel, someone ran in and stole our czmera bad and backpack. It was worse for Joe- computer, phone, travel documents and camera. I lost 2 cameras and 2 lenses. I planned this trip for the pictures. The theft happened within seconds at the hotel desk. Worst nightmare came true and so sad because th crime is impacting this great city. A morning on the phone and afternoon in police station and replacimg what we could.

We managed to go on a scheduled tour to the Prado, a chocolate shop and old quarter. Our guide was great and we had a posotive experience.

Funny how timr flies- 24hours latwr and I'm in the south of Spain.We picked up rental car early and drove through La Mancha. I wanted to tour vineyards and not as expected. I would book a guided tour for wines in the future. We passed on Granada, Cordba and Toledo. Next trip.

Tomorrow a day in the sun and off to Cadiz area. J

Where to start....after stressing about packing...I thought everything was under control. I was in for a surprise.

When I arrived to check in....my flight ws 12:25 0m and not the 2:25 pm I had in my mind. Luggage was 71 pounds- 70 max. Removed a book. Ran to the gate and here I am in Miami.

Joe made himself home in the admirals club. I guess this what to expect- the unexpected and very excited about that. J