Well, I completely fouled up the plan for yesterday! We didn´t go to the pool (that´s today!) but rather to the Prado Museum in the afternoon. The Prado is a huge museum that houses Spanish art up to the end of the ninteenth century ending with Francisco de Goya. In the museum the boys saw the"big three" Spanish painters, El Greco, Velazquez and Goya, but also works by Murrillo, Ribeira, Fra Angelico, El Bosco and a special exhibit of Sorrolla. We spent about two hours there and I will return, taking anyone who wants to go with me. They get an explanation of the art, and although many of the students are overwhelmed (read bored) by staring at paintings by old masters, they do get a sense of appreciation for the art. Many of them have seen pictures of the artwork in classes and it is really wonderful for them to see the work in reality.
Today is the feast day of Saint John, a very important feast day here in Spain. The fiesta began last night at midnight with fires, queimada, fireworks and general celebration. Ted and Max went with their Señora to a celebration where she jumped over the fire (they graciously declined) and tasted the quemada - a blue, flaming drink typical of the celebration.
I watched fireworks from my window at midnight - they were occurring all over the city. It was impossible to sleep when they were everywhere, but watching from my high window was quite enjoyable. I´ve learned a new way to keep in touch with my niños - I´ve learned how to text on my Spanish phone!
Today is the swimming pool... and it is still hot!