in transit

So many small and big events almost toppled our departure today. Basically everything but the weather! Surely not the first time that I had to cross my fingers that we'd actually take off. In October, there was Covid and we almost had to stay home. In January, it was the snowstorm and we almost had to stay home. Travel, in the age of the unexpected! But, no matter. We did take off. Much to her delight and my relief.

Of course, I had the usual morning at the farmette. It's sunny but cold! Below freezing! 

A warm breakfast is a lovely way to get ready for a departure.

(goofy faces, warm hearts)

Sigh... See you soon Ed.

And then I am at the airport and there I meet Snowdrop and we are off!

Where to? Well, Atlanta first. 

And after? In part, it was the girl's choice. She'd asked last year -- could we go to Spain? I think it was the language thing. She knows a few Spanish words and I can see there is that real longing to be able to say something that belongs to the place you're visiting. I was rooting for southern Europe, if only because when you live in Wisconsin, March can be fierce! A few days in a warmer place can be restorative. When she asked for Spain, I gave her a big smile and a nod.

I can't say that we'll be doing a typical "first trip to Spain." When Ed and I used to travel to this country, we'd always start with Barcelona. It was close to Sorede in Southern France (where we spent many, many June weeks) and, too, it was part of Catalonia. Spanish, but not really. Spectacular countryside, lovely people, great food.

Snowdrop and I are not going to Barcelona. 

I don't think it's an enjoyable place for a child her age. Crowds of tourists, late nights, hard to get a real feel for it. No, not Barcelona. Instead, I wanted to replicate parts of a trip that Ed I did exactly a dozen years ago -- to Andalucia. It is, in fact, my very favorite region of Spain. In the far south, it gives us a shot at good weather. More importantly, it has a beautiful vibe and a fascinating history. I'm hoping she'll like it!

But first, we fly to Madrid, where we will spend almost no time at all. The spring break isn't that long. If we're going to go all the way south, let's at least get a real taste for that region, rather than spreading ourselves too thin. But, tomorrow evening, I should write from Madrid.

buenas noches!