#week 1 down

[thesargasmicgoddess]

Last semester of PhD coursework has commenced! 🎉🎓

[bearlyholdingittogether]

Not to be one of those people but I've started running again this week

[chalkrevelations]

Final (knock wood) semester of this go-’round has started, and the syllabus is terrifying, especially in light of also still carrying a full-time job. (I am particularly bitter about our lack of decent healthcare options in the US right now, as I’d hoped to be able to just focus on school this last semester, but I need the insurance coverage through my current job.) I’m also already panicked about getting in enough clinical hours during the first 8 weeks, based on my preceptor’s schedule and the weather.

Which is to say, I’m likely to drop off the face of the earth again for a bit. Queue is set, so there should still be some posts, but @ or message me if there’s something you really think I should know or see.

Catch y’all on the flip.

[gentlewordonthewind-blog]

Working out has definitely helped my state of mind.

[littlemissmvixen]

Where adventures begin

I survived the first week at my new job. A job where I am treated like a human, where my input is appreciated. It's nice. Life has a funny way of saving you just at the last minute.

[shaking-off-the-bad-blood]

Now I know why they call it a "health kick". Because it kicks your butt.

[njgrayabroad]

Aug. 22: Valencia

Current location: Avenida Abrantes 88, “where the blog posts happen”

On today’s day-trip beyond Madrid, I checked off a bucket list item: I got to see the Mediterranean Sea! And swim in it! It was a beautiful beach day outing, culminating in a Seafood Paella and drinks by the seaside. Popular, gorgeous, warm. Quintessential study abroad story.

And now I can totally understand why the Mediterranean has been subject of such symbolism and praise: the water on Valencia’s coast is buoyant, mellow, and warm (unlike the Pacific Ocean tides that I’ve hopped in before). Felt like magic for a natural area to be so soft and comforting. (Though the sea-salt in my nose didn’t always feel so great, heehee. Refreshing.)

Overall, It’s been a great first week. And spent independently of our program, too! I’ve been so happy to travel with multiple brains that can help navigate, consult, and organize. We’ve become rockstars of the Metro (Madrid’s subway) and the Renfe Train station. Jasmmine, Rachel, Alan, Yoselyn, Dana, and I have really jelled as a group this week. (Example 255: We find ourselves walking in formation a lot.) It’ll be fun to work with them in the classroom setting and have fun around León for the next few weeks.

In other news, this is our last night in Madrid! Tomorrow we’ll say goodbye to Abrantes and take our things to the Chamartín Tren Station, board another 150+ mph high-speed train through the mountains, and make it to León to rendezvous with Professor Hicks, our host families, and another student-friend when she arrives in the evening.

Hard to believe this trip has only just begun when we’ve done so much in the first week alone! Can’t wait to see what the next set brings.

Love, Natalie