Final week in Granada

It’s a bittersweet feeling to leave Granada. On one hand the kids are looking forward to being reunited with family and Tahoe friends, one the other, they are sad to be leaving their new friends. Both children have integrated well into their school and their sports teams. When I see how sad they are to be leaving Jose Hurtado, I think back to how scared they were on the first day of school. How far they both have come!  It’s been an emotional week with many farewells: their coaches, friends and teachers. Zoe’s swim teammates signed a Spanish Flag for her. Her class made a book with farewell notes. JT’s class also made a farewell note.

We’ve squeezed lots of shopping and visiting into our last week and crossed many items off of our "before I leave" list. We saved one special experience for last: Tom and I made a trip to the Arab baths. In the midst of all of last minutes errands it was a thoroughly relaxing interlude. One arrives, and is shown the 3 bathing pools, freezing cold, temperate and warm. There is also a steam shower and 15 minute massage. They also serve a lightly sweetened tea. One has a period of 90 to enjoy these delights. The setting itself is unusual, lovely tiles, warm floors, tranquil music. This time of year, they are quiet.

Over the past 3 months we’ve seen much of Andalucía and Madrid.  While we have enjoyed each place, each trip has reinforced what a great choice Granada has been for our family. The culture, the weather, the people the ability to learn Spanish have all been great. By living in Granada, we’ve experienced all of the benefits of big city living with none of the usual downsides. Granada is clean, safe, affordable, and friendly.  Access to nature is a bike ride away. The kids are begging us to schedule a trip to return within the next 18 months.  I hope their enthusiasm and their rich experiences remain with them far into the future.