Hello everyone! I´m writing this from an internet cafe in the heart of Madrid. A neat city... not distinct so much in the architecture realm, but more in the cultural realm. I´ll explain...
But first, the Jack Johnson concert in Barcelona was amazing! A crazy crowd of about 15,000 made it even more fun. Mason Jennings was also a real treat! He even encored with Jack.
A short night´s sleep later we got up to catch a morning train to Madrid. A short 3 hours later (Max train speed of 300 km/hr or 180 mph) we had arrived. It´s interesting how you get off the train having no idea of where you are and then around 3 hours later after you´ve looked at maps and have your bearings, you can make your way around most of the city just fine! It happens every time!
I haven´t found anything particularly unique about Madrid (just by observation) except for the culture. We timed our arrival here to match the date of the Eurocup playoffs. Now we might think that the Superbowl is a big deal... it´s not. The Superbowl is child´s play. About 4 hours before the game it started to go off. Horns honking, people shouting "España! España!" It was nuts. Brian and I were planning on watching the game in a sports bar of some kind to get some of the energy. But on our way back to the hostel after some exploring, we noticed a mass exodus of people heading down the street all singing the national anthem. We abandoned our original idea and followed the crowd. That took us to a square set up with huge TVs and lights where about 10,000 redshirted people gathered to watch the game. It was NUTS. I can´t even describe the energy. Brian and I stayed in the back part of the square to avoid any mobs that might have formed. Spain won 0-1 and the party began. ALL night long, horns were honking, people filled the streets, firecrackers went off, people singing. I have never in my life seen this kind of patriotism and love for one´s country. Everyone was united last night. Nothing else mattered to them. Brian and I left as soon as we could to avoid the M80s and the champagne (I still got hit with some champagne). What a memorable experience!
Tonight we have a night trian from Madrid to Lisbon, Portugal. We arrive tomorrow morning and aren´t sure how long we´ll be there. But probably for a day or two. Sorry for the long post. Just had to describe that game!
The Lord has been so faithful to us in keeping us and our stuff safe and in providing the perfect places to stay. Really, we´ve had no big hiccups yet, which has been a huge blessing. All praise to God for His Word and faithfulness to us!
Next stop: Lisbon! Until then, adios! And thanks so much for your prayers!
Laundry time! Sure makes you appreciate washer machines...
...and driers.
The crowds of people gathered to watch the Eurocup final! Germany vs. Spain!
3 comments:
You guys are having so much fun!!! I feel like I can feel the energy you guys experienced just from your picture! Nice beards! I'm praying for you all the time, Austin! Have fun in Portugal!
Austin,
Mom and I just read your blog entry. We're typing from the Mount Hermon Central Grounds with wireless connectivity. We miss you this summer while vacationing here (our first ever without you at some point in time during our traditional week-long stay). Weather is fabulous, and Mount Hermon is as serene and beautiful as you might imagine. The girls are taking to childcare very well, and Barret's pretty connected with the High School group (riding his new longboard to and from events). He's filling in where you left off with his love of music and guitar playing during our down times. Annie's a good goofball as a Daycamp Counselor, as you might imagine.
So happy for you, Son. We love you more than ever, and pray for you often (Mom and I spent some time last night praying specifically for you, your trip, your passion for Jesus, and your future).
Thanks for calling; it meant the world to me (us).
Be safe, walk with Jesus, bask in His beauty and expand the Kingdom.
Love you,
Dad (and Mom)
Austin!
It's great to see your blog. At work, two of my deskmates are from Romania and Peru, and there's a Swede in the next cubicle, so I was able to follow the entire cup on the net. These guys are soccer crazy. Glad to see you were in Spain for the final.
I just got to meet your new baby sister last weekend. Lisa and the kids were out of town, so they still have to meet her. Blessings on the rest of your trip.
Steve
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