The Fall in Barcelona

Final Fireworks at La Merce

My friend Jordi recently told me that for him, the major sign of the beginning of the Fall is the last firework rocket that explodes at the final event of La Merce, the major festival in Barcelona that ended this year last Wednesday, Sept 24.  I was able to see these fireworks from the rooftop of a friend who hosted a party at his house.

Last week we had a few days of rain and after that the weather definitely changed. Although it's still very mild here, it's definitely not as hot or as humid. It's quite beautiful and the air feels fresh and clean. Everytime I walk outside I feel grateful having this amazing opportunity to live here.

Classes started

My Spanish class actually started on Thursday. I think the teacher is very good. However the class is

Barcelona Official Language School Entrance

large and although I only have one day to go on, I feel my speaking skills are a little more advanced than most in the class. Tuesday is my teacher's office day (a half hour). I'm going to set up an appointment to find out if there is an opportunity to move someone if they feel he or she is more advanced than the placement test determined. We'll see.  I know I'll still learn a lot in this class, regardless.

Shambhala Activities

A few weeks ago I was asked by the Shambhala group here to lead a particular practice which I have done in the US. It involves reading a 14 page text. However, here this text is in Spanish rather than in English, which makes sense, but for me involves a lot more concentration and effort. So I practiced with the text for about a week and led the session, which I believe turned out well.

This Sunday I went to Penedés, a town southwest of Barcelona and famous for its vineyards and wines, to participate in a program that began on Friday evening. There is a Shambhala group in Penedés so I had the opportunity to meet many of them for the first time.  I received a very warm welcome and became acquainted with some of the member of the Penedés group.

Second housewarming party

On Tuesday I host my second housewarming party. This time it's only 9 of us so we can all sit around the table. It will be more relaxed andI will be serving more appropriate portions of food (I had way too much food the last time). This group is my Tuesday night dinner group which we meet every Tuesday at 9:30 pm for dinner.