Week 6

We have reached the end of our journey. The kids have enjoyed the summer immensely. They have grown in many ways and will return to the US with a new perspective. They will never forget this experience and they are sad to leave Ciudad Real. I am sure that many of them will return in the future, but the magic of this summer can never be repeated.

This past week we went to the Corrida de toros in Manzanares which was an interesting cultural experience for them. Many said it was good to see once but that they would probably not go to see another bullfight. Tuesday evening we went to Almagro for the Corral de Comedias. Almagro is a lovely little town. We arrived early, took a short walk, ate sandwiches in the Plaza Mayor and went to see El condenado por desconfiado by Tirso de Molina. This is a traditional play from the 17th century. We had discussed the plot in class so the kids had general understanding. It was presented in old Spanish and was therefore a challenge to understand. The production was well done and I think that most of them enjoyed the experience.

Last night was the Farewell show. The kids presented two short plays and sang several Spanish songs for the host families. There were quite a few tears at the end of the program and there will be many more on Tuesday morning as we leave Ciudad Real.

It has been an amazing summer and I am lucky to have had the opportunity to spend it with a wonderful group of people.

Fourth of July

The kids sang the national anthem for the host families.

More photos

Futbol

I have neglected the blog this past week. Our Fourth of July fiesta was a success. The families all brought traditional Spanish foods and everyone seemed to have a good time. The next day was the quarterfinal Spain/Paraguay game. In the end, most of the kids watched the game with family and friends. A few of us went to the movie theater and watched the game in 3D. It was fun, but watching a game in 3D was a bit difficult because you have to constantly move your head with the ball. The next game against Germany was on July 7 and many of the students went to the Plaza Mayor in Ciudad Real. As you might imagine, the World Cup has been a main topic of conversation. Last night, for the final game everyone went to the Plaza Mayor again. There was a huge television at the far end of the plaza and it was full of people, a big street party. It was steamy, sweaty and smelly - not really my idea of fun. The kids, however, really enjoyed themselves. After the game, many of them jumped in the fountain at the other end of the Plaza Mayor. Being here during the World Cup has been quite an experience.