Hello, friends!
I’m pleased to report that we’re finding a routine now that school is in session here in Madrid. Todd usually walks S to school in the morning, and I pick her after lunch and recess at 3:00. Next month the children will return for classes from 3:00-5:00 in the afternoon, but this month is a little shorter so they can adjust to the school schedule.
The shorter days have been helpful, since S comes home completely exhausted at the end of the day. It’s hard work to learn a new language, and she’s doing great! Lunch at school is optional but it’s quite a treat. It includes a three-course meal eaten at small tables of four children each. The lunch ladies come around and help the smaller children and make sure everyone is eating enough. Everything is fresh and healthy, and S (who is a picky eater) has enjoyed all the dishes. After an hour to eat lunch (!) the children have an hour for recess before classes resume at 3:00. It’s a long day, but it’s so civilized! I just hope we can squeeze ballet and violin classes into the schedule at some point without feeling overly busy. Right now we’re focusing on the language, and we’ll add extra-curricular activities in a month or two. The children are delighted to have an American in class and are eager to speak English with her, and the teacher has even started to give S personal Spanish lessons to help her progress more rapidly.
Last Sunday we watched the Vuelta a España, which is the Spanish equivalent of the Tour de France, pass through Madrid on the last leg of the three-week race. The course ran just a couple of blocks from our apartment.
I thought of Shelley as we watched the bikers fly past us; it was really impressive to witness their speed in person. Todd and S both shot a fun video, if you’re interested.
How are you doing? Getting settled into a workable routine? I hope so!
Pinterest picks
Hey, look! A plaid dress at Madewell to inspire your next Gallery Dress. (Thanks to our friend Callie for the link.)
And here’s the bag I’d want to carry with that Gallery Dress. This darling shape may just have to inspire a new handbag!
A lovely polka dotted Carousel Dress to inspire your weekend sewing plans.
Such a simple, spare decor. Since we took very few things along with us on this move, I’m finding that living with less stuff really is pleasant. And it’s surprising how little we’ve found we really need! I’ll talk more about that soon.
Your daily chuckle.
Weekend reading/watching
- As a designer and small business owner, I often struggle with self promotion and with not feeling gross about doing it. This article has given me food for thought. What are your thoughts about it? What’s OK and what’s tacky?
- Very much related to 1. above, are these Instagram rules. I approve.
- (Video and article) In India, the ancient art of Rogan as a technique for textile decor has all but disappeared. This man has dedicated himself to practicing it and the results are stunning.
- Don’t miss this inspiring Dutch husband-and-wife design team and their colorful home.
- Vaccination via fungus inhalation? Amazing idea: half art and half science.
Have a terrific weekend! Any sewing plans?