When I was studying in Ecuador during my senior year in college, my host father told me I had "patas calientes" (translation: "hot hooves"). It's an expression that means one is always on the go and does many activities in one day. The Convivencia group from Merrimack College has LOTS of energy, and particularly yesterday, explored Madrid with "patas calientes". We began our morning at the Prado museum, and the students, who had studied Spanish Art with Dr. Nancy Kay and Dr. Lynn McGovern, were able to appreciate famous works of art such as "Las Meninas" (Velazquez) and "3 de mayo" (Goya). Afterwards, some of us leisurely walked through the Botanical Gardens while others enjoyed a picnic in Parque Retiro. Following a short rest, we saw the Templo Debod (a temple given to Spain from Egypt) and Las Ventas (where the bullfights take place).
We were graciously invited to meet with Allen Solomont, the U.S. Ambassador to Spain. He was very kind and told us about his experience living in Spain (he moved here one year ago) and working in the Foreign Service. The students shared what they have learned about Convivencia and intercultural dialogue, and Ambassador Solomont responded that he would like to fulfill similar objectives during his tenure. He sends his best regards to Dr. Padraic O'Hare and Dr. Charlie Tontar, old time friends from his years living in Massachusetts.
After visiting the U.S. Embassy, Rafael Soto '05, another Merrimack alumnus living in Madrid, joined us for tapas in Plaza Santa Ana. We concluded the evening by attending a flamenco show at Casa Patas. Flamenco, traditional music and dance from the southern region of Spain, stimulates lots of energy and emotion. The students LOVED it!
Anyone reading this blog will see that this post is one day late, and it's not due to the fact we are on Spanish time. On the contrary, we maximized our day by savoring each moment, embracing every opportunity, and exploring with "patas calientes".
No comments:
Post a Comment