Que tal?! Today was the first day of class, and I only had one: Arte del Prado. As you can imagine, it is an art class specific to the three most famous Spanish artists and their works in the Prado Museum. Every Thursday we go to the museum and get to observe the paintings that we study. How about that for interactive learning?! Although I know nothing about art and lack a creative bone in my body, I'm looking forward to taking this class and becoming a more cultured individual :)
I absolutely love our professor, the super fast Spanish speaking Marisa Marina. She is so hyper-active and fun that--before I knew it--two hours had flown by, and we were already finished with class and on our way to the metro. Oh, but first we made a little stop at a pasteleria (pastry shop) and bought a berlinesa which is basically creamy custard sandwiched between two donuts. Um, yum. Worth the five pounds I gained from each bite.

After we arrived home and had lunch (spicy meatballs and rice), Erin and I made the trek to El Parque del Retiro, Madrid's beautiful public park full of shady pathways, fountains, ancient statues, palaces, and pavilions. It was one of the most gorgeous things I had ever seen. My favorite place was the Parterre, one of the few surviving corners of the original palace gardens. It was so elegant. I was also amazed by the breath-taking Rosaleda or rose garden. Que linda!!!!


Tonight: much needed rest. Hasta luego!

What I learned today: paint is made from huevo y yeso, eggs and the stuff used to make a cast. Gracias art class!