Thank You and Thank You

In the Basque Country, us newcomers (and monoliguists) have it a bit difficult. The people here operate in two languages-Euskara and Spanish. The first being the preferred but most difficult choice. For now we are focusing on learning Spanish, however, trying to be mindful to use the little Basque that we do know-first.
The other day as we were leaving la fruiteria (can you guess?-fruit store) Gerald invented a new way of saying "thank you".
-Eskerrik Asko is how you say "thank you" in Basque.
-Gracias is how you say "thank you" in spanish.
-Eskerrikacias is how Gerald says "thank you" in both languages at the same time.

*I don't recommend you try it. You might get a strange look.

A couple of cool guys in Basque Country!

Mi Padre

Today is my Dad's Birthday. Here are all the reasons I love my dad:
-He taught me all about the Beattles and why they were musical masterminds.
-I am NEVER bored when I am around my dad.
-He went to Woodstock AND gave Jimi Hendrix water on stage...and doesn't think it was a big deal.
-He let me listen to "The Doors", even though he detested Jim Morisson and his music.
-There is always music when my dad is around.
-He wrote a well-known song in the 80's and I have never heard him tell anyone. (You are My Hiding Place)
-He would spend time with me everynight while growing up, asking me questions and listening to me.
-He trusts me.
-He would give the shirt off his back to anyone who asked.
-He doesn't care about money or material things.
-My kids often admit to me that he is their favorite person.
-He will spend hours playing with his grandkids.
-My son is just like him.
Dad, I could go on and on and on...this is just scratching the surface for all the reasons I love you..but most of all-because you have demonstrated the love of a father and point me continually to the True Father.
I love you! Happy Birthday

There's Something About That Smell...

There is something about the way this city smells. And I am absolutely addicted to it! It is hard to describe, and you really have to experience it to know what I am talking about and not think I am absolutely crazy. But, it is a mix of diesel, cigarette smoke, a detergent (I think) called "WIPP," ocean air, chorizo, and other good foods. I never thought I would enjoy the smell of cigarettes and diesel, but the combo makes this city so...Europe! And I LOVE IT! Come and smell for yourselves!

Me...And A Handsome Local

Santo Thomas Day

Today we experienced a favorite fiesta in this city. The kids got dressed up in the traditional Basque dress and we walked to the center of town to join the festivities. They sell chorizo (if you haven't tried it...you are missing out!) and lots of local handmade goodies. I bought a Pastel Basco (a basque cake that is out of this world!) and Turron (a spanish christmas treat). The crowd was enormous. I think the whole city squeezed into two city blocks, but we managed our way through and had a great day.

Santo Thomas Day

Sometimes a Snuggle is All You Need!

A Good Thing!

My special "girls" sent us a package of some of our most favorite things. Included was Stumptown Coffee. I am convinced it is the best coffee in the world. We have been enjoying every sip and feeling the love.

Another Good Thing

Near our apartment is a little shop that sells fish soup. Fresh fish soup, made in house. It is filled with lots of little goodies from the nearby sea. Tonight we noticed some little octopus legs along with a few other unknowns. We are feeling healthy and a little more like locals. Especially when our son begs for an extra piece of octopus.

A Basquey Christmas

The kids participated in a live reading of The Nativity Story at the fellowship we have once a month. It looked a bit different this year with the traditional Basque hats. The kids had a lot of fun and little Miriam sure enjoyed getting to play the part of Mary. She sat as still as a statue for the 15 minutes or so.

This is a sign painted on a mountain. I see it often hanging out of windows of apartments. I found out that it means "Basque prisoners to Basque country." Apparently, the Spanish government sends the prisoners to far away places throughout Spain, which makes it difficult for family members to visit them. It goes against a law/agreement that stands in Spain or Europe (not sure) that allows prisoners to be imprisoned near their homes. It is an injustice to the people of the Basque country and a cause for more frustration.

Some Pictures of Basque Country

This past week the kids had 2 days off of school for a "fiesta." I LOVE it when my kids don't have to go to school-this was such a treat for me. The English teacher at the children's school took us on a little outing of a Basque coastal town. We had an incredible day seeing sights, and eating at a very "Basque" restaurant.

I Asked Simon To Set The Table...

And this is what I got!!! This kid sure knows how to do it right! (I lit the candles.)

Christmas Time!!!

Signs of Settling

Here are a few of the things that tell me our family is adjusting to our new life:
1. When the lights in public bathrooms or hallways (set on one minute timers) shut off and we are left in complete darkness the-kids no longer scream. They hardly seem to notice.
2. When we see the large pig legs (in the shops and the cafes) or the complete carcasses of animals (eyes included) hanging in the grocery, we don't stare (or make other obnoxious noises) any more.
3. When Miriam asks what things are called, she doesn't want the answer in english.
4. When I order coffee after a meal out, and it comes 30 minutes later, I am less annoyed.
5. I've stopped converting the euro into the dollar. (it's too depressing!)
6. I wonder if I ever used to be able to communicate effectively with retailers.
7. Mickey Mouse doesn't speak english, and we are okay with that.