The Castle Hotel (a paradore) in Zafra

The Castle Hotel (a paradore) in Zafra

I miss you Spain! I really do. I know, I know…I told you I would return and spend time with you in 2013. That obviously did not happen. Yet we both know, that I will be back soon. On certain days, a blue sky will evoke feelings I felt when living in your beautiful, ancient land. Drinking heady, red wine and nibbling on delicious goat cheese, awakens for me the joys of taking time to relax and savor life. It seems that everywhere I look and wherever I am, you show up. Or perhaps it’s because you’re so much a part of me. Yeah, you’re in my blood…yet it goes deeper than that.

The magic of castles stirs in me still and any glimpse of flowers and vines embracing balconies and buildings, excites me as if I’m transported back. Are there things that remind you of me, Spain? Perhaps your residents who became my friends or my own mother, who lives in your beautiful countryside?

Plaza Fontan in Oviedo

Plaza Fontan in Oviedo

With Guitar luthier, Valeriano Bernal, in Algodonales

With Guitar luthier, Valeriano Bernal, in Algodonales

Sounds of Spanish guitar and flamenco music move my feet and body to dance with you in spirit. Words of your romantic language come flowing out when I feel passionate and fiery (which is frequent for any Latina). I love talking about you to anyone who will listen; friends and family know they’ll get an earful anytime I relate again the wonderful history you hold, not just for the world at large, but especially for my own family. That is something that I fondly value between us…that gift of heritage, rich and lovingly courageous, that has you with me wherever I am and in the midst of what I am experiencing…even when I am not physically standing on your precious soil.

Yes, I can not only hear you calling me back, I feel you drawing me back. Because for some wonderful reason, Spain, you like having me among your people, at home in your lands. I get the feeling that through me, you’re bringing others to visit and call you home as well. I hope so, because next time I come, I won’t be alone. Sure, you can enlist me to share your magic and beauty with others. I am honored and excited and feel like it brings out who I really am. Thanks for being patient about my return and for understanding that I have the entire world to see and many lands and people to experience. I appreciate how you share me with Denver, my other home. You know me well and how I’m made to travel and to not just be in one place. That’s why you stay always in my heart and keep me in yours. Here’s to more times together in 2014! Hasta luego, mi amor, Espana!

The beach of Rota

The beach of Rota

Family in Tuna with the bust of our ancestor, General Riego.

Family in Tuna with the bust of our ancestor, General Del Riego.

Enjoying vino y jamon in Oviedo

Enjoying vino y jamon in Oviedo

A view of Aracena, from it's hilltop cathedral and castle ruins.

A view of Aracena, from it’s hilltop cathedral and castle ruins.

The Alhambra in Granada

The Alhambra in Granada

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