Mi Familia

June 13, 2013

We have been eagerly awaiting my Aunt and Uncles arrival in Spain!  They have given us the best wedding present; allowing us to stay in their gorgeous villa for 3 months. It has been a once in a lifetime experience and a honeymoon we will never forget.  We have become familiar with Calpe and are adjusting to the Spanish way of life quite nicely.  Being that my Aunt is a native we knew that once they were here we would be shown a more intimate side of Spanish culture. 

On the first day of their arrival they invited us to a traditional late Spanish lunch-served at 3pm- at one of their favorite restaurants.  As we looked for parking in the old town Aunt Maria quickly pointed out a back alley lot, where we ended up getting to park for free because of her connections with locals. As we approached our destinations she was greeted with open arms by the owner of the family run business.  This was our first time sharing a meal with someone who spoke Spanish, let alone being friends with owners. We were ushered into the back dining area dangling above or head were rows and rows of vintage wine bottles.  From floor to ceiling the walls were covered in hand painted Spanish tiles. Aunt Maria told us that we were sitting in what used to be a traditional Spanish home that was converted in to a restaurant years ago.  Speaking the language beautifully, Aunt Maria took control of ordering for everyone. By Spanish law restaurants must offer two specialty menus each day that include three courses and one beverage.   We started with a round of beers and tapas which included homemade potato salad, baby prawn, and pan fried lamb chops.  For the main course we were served pallaea made of pork and vegetables with a complimentary bottle of roija – red Spanish wine. For dessert we had the choice between pudding sprinkled with cinnamon and a cookie or watermelon, I had the pudding it was delicious.    

After leaving with our bellies full we headed back to the villa for afternoon swim.  I sat in the sun the rest of the day getting to know my second cousin Gabrielle, whom I had never met.  We shared stories of our childhood and talked about each other’s dreams and ambitions. At 26 years old I find it disheartening that I still have so many family members close to my age that I have never met.  Gabrielle told me about her siblings and what it was like to travel throughout Europe; I took notes on every suggestion she made.  Even though our visit was short we planned to meet up again in London where she will do an internship for part of the summer.

 

Life is full of surprises!  I look forward to each new day with excitement and anticipation. I am thrilled to have a chance to visit with my Aunt and Uncle. I plan on soaking up all their stories and truly expressing appreciation for having family like them.

With family in mind; Father’s Day is Sunday!! Don’t forget to tell your fathers, father-in-laws, or anyone who has been like a father to you just how much you love and value having them in your life.  Let them know how often you think of them by taking the time to give them a call or by going and spending some time with them.  Happy Father’s Day Diddy & John!