A Journey: Beautiful Madrid

Sitting inside a loud but cozy cafe next to the royal palace, which I got to by taking a leisurely stroll with my friend Sean from the auxiliares program I almost did. Trying to still get used to the fact that my typical Sunday may include such things as taking a walk to the royal palace what with its pretty manicured gardens and statues of kings in front. Today it actually drizzled on our walk and while we were having brunch at a yummy Peruvian restaurant with some of Sean's friends. It's a welcome rain after many days of dry heat, but not so convenient for my poorly-planned sundress. So I'm at a warm cafe having mint tea, listening to Spanish conversation and doing my homework.
In other news, I found a place to live! After many disappointing visits to apartments I finally got a really good feeling from one place. It's wedged into a corner of the Argüelles neighborhood, surrounded by a park, and within a 5min walk of the Egyptian temple from where I'll be watching many gorgeous Madrid sunsets. The apartment is currently occupied by two really sweet El Salvadorians and one Italian whom I haven't met, all around my age. It's a nice size (by European standards at least), has good light, aaand my room has an extra fold out bed! So no one has an excuse not to visit me! (Flight price and lack of vacation time do not count as excuses.) I'll be putting up an online calendar for you to fill in your time slot.
Anyway, I'm really really happy I found an apartment finally and didn't settle. I feel like I can relax a little more now. The class is only halfway done though, and it's quite a bit of work. I taught two classes last week and apparently I am strict over-correcting teacher lady. Note to self: chill out, be nice!
Next up, get iPhone to work, learn Spanish. Love everyone, miss you all!