Despite the masses, I went for a short run before attending the IES students' final flamenco performance at el Colegio Ave María Casa Madre. The choreography was reminiscent from my class's performance four years ago, but it was very well executed. I also enjoyed seeing my professor, Maria. Delia and Laura attended as well, as Meghan and Reinie were among the dancers.
It just so happened to be Delia's birthday on Saturday, so I joined them for lunch after the performance. Delia's long-term boyfriend, José, also came for lunch. He hasn't changed a bit--just as comical as I remember.
After a lot of seafood and birthday cake, I left to meet Trini for the sunset at my favorite spot in Granada--el mirador de San Miguel Alto. Sitting high above the city, the views from the top are unparalleled. This same spot was where Delia married her ex-husband, Roberto, many years ago.
On Sunday morning, I went for my long weekly run on a trail that follows el Río Geníl.
The afternoon was spent with Trini and her parents at their apartment in the city. Against my will, Trini insisted that her mom prepare a vegetarian meal because I do not have a big liking for meat or seafood. Every time that I thought lunch was over, her mom brought out more delicious food. The elaborate meal included two salads (one with lettuce and vegetables, and the other with roasted red pepper and cooked egg), paella with chicken, peanuts and olives, breads, and red wine. And for dessert, coffee with sweets--specifically one of the traditional Christmas treats, "mantecado" (the other being turrón). I quite enjoyed mantecado, which reminded me of Argentine mantecol. After so much food, I craved nothing more than a Spanish siesta.
Trini's parents are extremely warm and kind. While her father is slightly more reserved, her mother is loud and out-going. Previously busy and hard-working market owners, they are now enjoying the relaxed, retired lifestyle. I much enjoyed their company, and was grateful for the invitation.
That night, I attended the IES Open Mic event at la Expositiva near Plaza Nueva, where the students performed various acts from singing and dancing to poetry and comedy.
As my first week in Spain comes to a close, I take a moment to reflect on a few changes that I've noted from the Granada that I remember four years ago...
-The bright Christmas decorations adorning the city center
-Warmer weather
-Slight changes in fashion trends
-More bikers and runners
-More tourists
-More cell phone use
-New bus system
-A turnover in shops, bars, and restaurants
-More metropolitan culture, such as yogurt and sushi eateries, as well as "to-go" food and drinks
-Less unemployment, but more homeless
