Philadelphia Freedom

Wow, what a trip. Christmas 2008 was one of the best I can remember. Pat and I were together, with all of our family at home in the states. It really doesn't get much better than that! It was a quick trip home, about 6 days, but well worth the trip. We really didn't have any down time, and it went by so quick, but we enjoyed every moment. One of the best things, is we are from the same town, so its so easy to spend time with both our families. 

On Christmas day, we first went to my parents and opened gifts and had breakfast. Then we went to mass,and after mass our nephew Matty was baptized.  It was really nice to be able to be there for it. Pat is the godfather, so it was extra special for him. Overall it was just so nice to be with family. Also it was great catching up with our friends...my girls night out was especially fun, and there are lots of pics to show it. Yeah for margaritas!

Sometime during the few days we were home Pat found out it was a good possibility we were leaving Santiago, and moving to Tenerife. I had mixed emotions, cause for the first time in 2 years, I was doing my own thing. But of course, the main reason we are in Spain is because of basketball, and the move was great for Pat. When we found out definitely we were leaving we were both really excited, and looking forward to another new adventure. We made great friends, there, and we will miss them a lot, especially Xavi and Jess, but well see them again. And i know I am gonna miss my biweekly trips to hang out with Amber in Lugo, but Im just gonna do that all summer long in Philly, in her new house with the big pool, haha. 

So on the 28th, we left Philly together and flew into madrid, and then we split up. Pat went directly to Tenerife, and I went to Santiago to pack up all our things. Jess came over and cooked dinner and helped pack, she is a lifesaver! The next day, Xavi picked me and all the luggage up, took me to their house to have lunch. After an amazing meal, I went to the airport and was off. A few delays later, one vomiting kid, and a baby screaming in my ear the entire flight, I made it to Tenerife late last night. It was a flight Id like to forget. Oh and the best part was attempting to park in our apartment garage last night. There is a lift for the cars, like an elevator that takes you down the levels to park. Well it took us to the wring level, and wouldn't let us out. So we were stuck in the garage, and had to park in someone's spot, but luckily a teammate this morning helped him get out. Never will I ever park in the garage. It is the smallest thing I've ever seen...I would kill our car for sure!

When I arrived to Tenerife Pat was waiting for me, it was so good to see him. It had only been a day, but i already missed him so much. Anyway Tenerife is absolutely beautiful, we woke up to sun for the first time in a while. Our apartment is very small, but we love it!! Def and upgrade. He likes the team, and the club, it seems great. When Pat arrived, they had him go directly to the doctors, had a full exam and blood work, so his health is good, I love when he gets all checked up!! 

Other than unpacking, this morning has been very lazy for me. Pat only has one practice today, and has off tomorrow, so it will be a nice few days!

We miss you all already, and cant wait to see everyone soon!

No Internet

Well this has to be quick, cause my computer is about to die. I am at an internet cafe right now, because we don't have internet in our house. Of course this happens to be when Pat leaves for an away game, so I am at home bored out of my mind. Anyway I will write more later and fill you all out on the fun details of the week, like no internet, our coach being fired, and more fun things like that. What a week its been. We miss everyone so much, and cant wait to see you all in like 4 days. Okay i am going home now to recharge my computer. This sucks!

Amanda

BOWLING

Well this weekend was pretty fun, minus the loss on friday. Pat didn't get home until 6 in the morning on saturday, so we both slept in pretty late. The best part of his late arrival was that at 6 am, he comes in the house ( I heard him come in the house, but I really wasn't awake).  So the next thing I know, he is in the bed with buffalo pretzels, that my mom had just sent us, with a beer, watching tv. I didn't know whether to laugh or be mad, cause it was funny, but i was sleeping so whatever. Anyway we both got to bed soon after and the next morning, I was just laughing about it, who does that at 630 in the morning?

So Saturday night we had plans with a few guys on the team to go bowling. There were 6 of us, and we decided to do Americans vs. Europeans, and of course it was no contest. We crushed them,  there was never any hope for them! Anyway it was a fun night. What is hilarious about it is that we didnt go bowling until after midnight, and by the time we got home it was almost 3. Im still not totally used to doing everything so late here, I mean I like it, but its still really weird. Anyway after bowling the guys went out to the bars in the city, but Pat and I went home. 

Sunday was nice we met up with 2 guys from the team, Xavi, one of the players, who Pat is very good friends with, and one of the managers. The manager basically gave us a tour of Santiago, and although we had gone around plenty of times before, he told us about all the history and some of the tales, which was pretty cool. My favorite part was he took us to this coffee shop, that is a starbucks kind of place, with big togo coffee cups. I was never so excited. It isn't very common to get coffee to go, but now I know where to find it! 

Anyway that was our night, oh and for the hundredth time last night, Pat and I made this new dessert, nutella cheesecake. It is his absolute favorite, and so now we always have it in the house. Which isn't so good for me, cause I am always eating it too! Oh well. 

Well I think that is all for now. I have off of school today because here in Spain, the Immaculate Conception is a national holiday!! Woo hoo  Virgin Mary, thank you! 

Oh and by the way, a typical night in the picture above... never leave home without an umbrella, its always necessary!!

Another Friday Night...but not alone

Well tonight, was another loss. Okay I said it, so now its done. Pat played really well though, scoring 20 points. Not sure what is going on, cause he is the leading scorer on the team, but his coach is not starting him. Boy would I like to give that man a piece of my mind, but I'll stay cool, for the sake of Pat. 

On a better note, I went grocery shopping today and stocked up on some wine, so I was all ready for my Friday night alone. As some of you may know, when Pat leaves, I have been hanging out at home, drinking wine, which helps pass the time much easier, and quicker. And I was already to continue that streak. However, I met up with Irene, a girlfriend of one of Pat's teammates. She's my age, and she is really cool, we get along great. So I went out to get a bit to eat and drink with her, and we had a great time. She also helps me practice my spanish, so that can never be bad...cause I need all the help I can get. But speaking of my spanish, I managed to find the post office today, and send a package and spoke all in spanish, and everybody understood what I was saying, small miracle. i felt the the king, or queen, of the world.

As far as school is going, I've been having a good time, but I am really excited that I dont have school monday. It is a holiday monday, actually as well as sat, so everything is totally closed for 3 days. Kind of sucks, but I like the idea that the people here dont live to work, rather work to live. They really enjoy their free time, and spend more time with their family and friends! I love it! I wish the states could adopt the siesta, because spending time in the middle of the day at home along with a quick nap in the afternoon is just what the doctor ordered. 

And the countdown continues...16 days until we get home. 

The little things

So its been, well awhile.  Sometimes it is just so hard to write, when we keep losing. Its pretty depressing, but now I am over it, so I can continue. This past week, surprise, we lost again. It was so painful to watch, because at half time we were up by 11, but when the 2nd half came, and the genius coach decided to switch things up and not start or play Pat. So we lost by about 10...smart move. So that was not so fun, but afterward, we went out to dinner with a few of the players, and had a great dinner. So the night was fine. 

Over the weekend, Pat and I caught up on some much needed sleep. Poor Pat still wakes up every morning to take me to school, and then comes back home for about an hour until he goes to practice. Actually now that I am writing this, I realize that he actually probably loves taking me because he has an hour at home all by himself! He doesn't have to hear me, or do anything I ask or anything... just relax. Wow, now I shouldn't feel so bad for him waking up early. 

So as all my family members know, and many of my friends, there really isn't much else I hate more than being cold, and it doesn't take much to get me cold, other than being cold and wet. So when I say I think God is playing a little joke on me by moving me to Santiago, Spain, I am so not kidding. I don't remember a day in the past 2 months, that I have woken up to sun. It is never ending rain here, and I hate ever part of it. When I do take the bus, walking to and from school, in the pouring rain is not fun. But a quickshout out to my mom, who just went me wellies (cute rainboots), it wont be as awful walking around in the rain, thanks mom you are the best!  Also it is so cold and humid, that even when the rain gives up for an hour, you feel wet and freezing. Needless to say I'd take the weather in Sevilla and Alicante any day over this mess. 

However, as I was thinking about my life this year as compared to last, I realized how happy I am now, compared to how lost and unhappy I was last year (even with the weather). It was such a long and difficult transition, first from moving away from home for the first time, to moving to a new city mid season. What a year, but I got through it because of Pat, after all he is the best husband. However, I think this year both of us are happier because I actually have a life of my own. My entire day does not depend and revolve around him, like last year, so its definitely better now. 

Speaking of better now, as I continue teaching english classes, to the 2 cutest 12 and 13 year old brother and sister, I know that although I do not miss the emergency room at abington, I do miss working, and having a purpose when I wake up. I think work is really important for me, and my mental health. Also it is beneficial for my pocket! I haven't been paid for work in almost a year and a half, and even though it will not get the bills paid, when I did get paid, I was so excited! Needless to say, when Pat leaves tomorrow for his road trip, I will be going shopping, and spending every cent I made, haha. 

Oh and last thing, last week was thanksgiving, and even though they don't celebrate it over here, we were thinking about everyone, and wishing we could have spent the holiday with you. We are so thankful to have the best family and friends anyone could ask for, and we can't wait to see you in 3 weeks during Christmas. Oh and I just wanted to say that I did not cook, rather I turned the oven on, and popped a pizza in and that was our thanksgiving meal, I rationalized it by telling myself and Pat how many calories we saved, hahaha, and then realizing that Pat needs those extra calories, so maybe next time.

Well this week has been about the same, school, teaching and intercambio for me, and practice, practice, practice for him. Hopefully I will be able to write after Friday and say we won, I think we will win, as long as this coach plays Pat.

oh and a side note, my husband, is seriously the cutest man ever. Last night, just as we were getting ready for bed Pat starting humming our favorite song, the song our videographer put a video together with, and he turns to me and said, lets put on our wedding video. I was like, what? who are you? it was so cute...i guess its just the little things

Long Time Away

Well it has been quite a while since I blogged last, but things have been a little crazy. Pat and I both have been so busy, and traveled a bit this past weekend. We woke up Saturday morning and decided to drive to Porto, Portugal, and boy was it a good idea. Pat booked a great hotel, very romantic with champagne and grapes. Once we got there, we took a cruise through Porto, which was supposed to serve port wine, but somehow we didn't get it. Anyway it was a great little cruise. Afterward, we walked through the town, and found one of the many little outside restaurant/bar, to have some port wine. So we ordered a red and a white, and after tasting them both, i decided i would never taste them again. Since living in Spain, Ive drank more wine than ever, and I love it, but that port wine is nasty! Pat didn't have a problem with it though, he drank both glasses pretty quickly. So after hanging on the port, in porto, drinking port wine (haha) we went back to the hotel to shower and get ready for a good night out. We went to an amazing restaurant, where Pat ate his first steak since being in Spain, so he was in heaven. We left Porto the next morning, and after only 2 hours of driving, we were back at home. We will def be back there again. We are planning our next trip to Lisbon, which is only another 2 hours south of Porto. 

Besides our little trip to Portugal, things have been about the same. With a little luck, Pat and his team will start winning some games! Its been a little depressing, because they are always so close, but in the end it never really goes our way. Pat is traveling to an away game right now, and they play tomorrow at 7:00 tomorrow, so with a little luck, we will pull this one out. 

As for me, its been a little hectic with teaching 2 times a week, and meeting with Yolanda 2 times a week and then school. Don't get me wrong I love being busy, its quite a change from last year, and now when I think about it, I cant think of not being busy. Its much, much better. Snd now, because I get a pay check, although extremely small, I can say I have a job!! woo hoo its amazing to have a job again, haha. And quite a bit less stressful then working in the emergency trauma center at abington

Well, thats about it for now...oh I have to say I am really sad because Amber has left, and normally when Pat is gone, I drive to her house and spend the night. So its really sad without her, I cant wait for her to come back!

OH yeah, and incase anyone forgot, we will be home in about 4 weeks!!

Teaching English

Well it's only Tuesday, but it feels like Friday. This week has been so crazy, I feel like I totally have a life again, haha. I began teaching english yesterday with 2 siblings, a girl and a boy, 12 and 13, and i was so surprised at how well they spoke english. They need some help with pronunciation and speaking more. I think its going to go really well, as I will be having classes with them for at least the next month...until we come home for XMAS.

Yesterday I also had an intercambio session.  It was the second time, and I will meet up with her again on Thursday.  It went really well, Yolanda is so great, I really enjoy hanging out with her. 

I haven't been able to cook this week, which is nice; however, tomorrow I'll get back in the kitchen and cook. It's more relaxing to eat at home, so tomorrow will be nice.

Pat leaves Thursday for a game, and I think I am going to drive to Lugo, and hang out with Amber. Bill also has an away game, so Amber and I should have a good time hanging out!

Well thats about it for now, Ill let you know how the rest of the week goes!

Intercambio

Well today was a really good day in spanish class. We are learning some new things, and I feel like I am understanding everything a little better now. Today, after class, was my first day with an intercambio, I met with a girl named Yolanda. She is from Spain, has been learning english, but needs to practice speaking more,  so we talked for about an hour in english. After speaking english we talked for another hour in spanish. Basically the purpose is for both of us to practice speaking the language. Although I am in classes 5 days a week, most of the time is spent learning the grammer, and doing a lot of writing exercises.  Although I can understand a lot more, I still am very uncomfortable speaking in public, so this is going to be great for me.  Yolanda has been studying english for many years, and is in the same situation that I am in.  Pat also came today, after his practice. He wasn't there while we were speaking english, but came in time for the spanish part. He also liked it, and without having classes, he is so good, and understands and speaks very well. Sometimes I get mad, because I am in school 20 hours a week, and he is just about as good as I am. Not fair, but its okay, we make a good team.

Lastly, today I booked classes to teach english to 2 kids, ages 12 and 13, 2 times a week. I am pretty excited about it! I am a little nervous because I really have no idea what to expect, and I do not know what level they are speaking. I am meeting with them on Monday at 7:00, and it will be for an hour and a half. Also on Monday I am meeting with Yolanda again.  I am beginning to become busy, which is pretty fun because for the first time since being overseas, I feel like I actually have my own life, how crazy!

Well thats about it, Pat has a game tomorrow, so how about we all pray together. He is playing the top team in the league, Alicante (our team from last year). Alicante is undefeated this year, so with Pat playing great, and a little luck, we will give them their first loss!

Hot Water

Well this is a great week, I am now taking hot showers! Our water finally is fixed and boy is life so much more enjoyable! Anyway besides the water, nothing else too exciting is going on this week. I'm continuing classes, and although they are hard, I think little by little I'm starting to get it.   Im going to start teaching english classes, I am just waiting to here from the president of the school. 

Pat has a game coming up, tomorrow, and I am so excited. We have to win, and I know we will. Thats about it for now.

Weekend Visit

Well this weekend had a few ups and a few downs! Pat left early thursday morning, about 4 am for a road trip to La Palma, in the canary islands. He played Friday night, and lost. It was a close game, but in the end, it wasn't our game. 

Friday I decided to drive to Lugo, and stay the night at Amber and Bills and go to Bills game Saturday. I hate staying here by myself, so more or less, i called up Amber to see what they were doing, and decided to go. It was so much fun, and Im so happy I went. Thank goodness for our GPS because it has made me so much more adventurous. Last year, I would have never driven anywhere by myself, but this year, its so easy, and the GPS gets you to exactly where you want to go. Before I left Friday, the internet went down in our apartment. Initially I thought the team didn't pay the internet bill, so i walked down to the shopping area, and the internet wouldn't work there either. So later, after i got to Amber's, we found out it all of northwest Spain's, also known as Galicia, internet had gone out for 6 hours. Totally crazy. I cant imagine what i would have done, all alone in my apartment, with out internet, sad but true, a lot of my free time revolves around the internet. 

Well thats about all for now, we are really looking forward to this weeks game, a must win game, so until then practice and school for us, and not too much more.

We Won...Finally!!

Wow, I forgot how exciting it is to win. After loosing the first 3 games, this win was extra exciting! Pat played great again, scoring 17 points, and we won by about 15. Also exciting, was Bill and Amber decided last minute to come to the game, so it was great to hang out and watch the game with them. Afterward, we went out to dinner, and then they had to go because Bill was leaving the next morning for Alicante. He is playing Alicante Sunday, actually thats today. Anyway after we said goodbye to Amber and Bill, Pat and I went out with most of his teammates, and some girlfriends, and had a great time. We usually go to this one specific bar first, more relaxed feel, laid back, i think it is Brazilian. They have this drink that is 6 euros, and its basically a frozen drink with sugar, crushed lemon and some type of liquor. Its delicious and tastes like a slushy, but its small and 6 euros, so usually i have 1 or 2 and then switch up drinks. After we went to a club more hyped up lots of dancing. It was so much fun. Pat was like Amanda lets go, are you ready, and I was like i don't want to but, we did leave. After we got in the car i looked at the clock and it was already 5:00 in the morning. I couldn't believe how late it was, the night just went so fast, i guess thats what happens when you win and we were all in such good moods!!

This morning was great! Last night I  made an egg casserole, which Pat loves. We cooked it this morning, I made some home fries and we had lots of orange juice, and of course awesome coffee that Pat brewed! So needless to say it was a great morning and an awesome weekend. Then Pat had to go to practice.

Well thats all i have for now, another week of practices, and for me school, so im already looking forward to next weekend!

Another Game

Well I havent written in a while, Ive been a bit busy with school, and cooking, and some other stuff, nothing too exciting! Anyway last week was great! I turned 25 and it was a great day. Last week Pat played Lugo, and I went to see the game, and met Amber there. Amber is Bill Phillips wife, who plays for Lugo. Shes also the person who started Basketwives.com. Anyway it was a great visit, we went out to dinner after the game, and it was a lot of fun. The game was great, very exciting. Pat played amazing, but we lost by 2 points!

This week has gone by so quickly! Already another game! We are playing VIC tonight, and I know Pat is going to play well and we are going to win! Hopefully we will go out and have a good time after the win. 

Well thats about it for now.

Amanda

Weekend Off

It's so exciting when Pat has a home game because he always has off for the entire weekend after. Normally his home games are on Friday night at 9:00, so we go out to eat after and go out to the clubs after that. But the best part is Saturday and Sunday. This past weekend was fun. Pat played a great game Friday night, scoring 20 points, however, our team lost. It was a close game, we just couldn't pull it out. We are looking forward to the first win, but enjoying the great games he has been playing. 

Yesterday, we decided to go on a little trip to A Coruna. It is a city about 45 minutes north of Santiago, on the ocean. It was a beautiful day, and the views of the city were beautiful. We went to the famous lighthouse, which was huge, and was built on top of a very large hill, so from there, you could see so much of the city, and it also overlooked the ocean. It was awesome. We also walked around the city for a little while, they have a port with tons of boats, and lots of restaurants. We found this amazing little restaurant, and had a huge lunch at about 4:00. We had the best roasted red peppers, (besides of course my dads), and fish and shrimp, that both looked like it had come right out of the ocean, heads and tails and all

After cleaning them up, they were so delicious!

Today, we are just going to hang out, relax, and enjoys the day off, for the most part. Pat is going to go to the gym and lift for a little while, and Im going to make a french toast casserole, so we will see how that goes!

Hair!!

Well I have to say I am a very happy girl. One of the things that gives me the biggest problems when living overseas, is that Courtney is not here to do my hair! As a blonde, my hair needs upkeep. I like to get highlights, without the fear my hair will turn orange, or fall out.  And as some of you may know, last year, when i got my hair "trimmed" I came home crying with what looked like the beginnings of a mullet. Not kidding, I came home crying to Pat, who then was so scared, but trimmed my hair anyway. He did such a good job, he was the best! 

Anyway, now that I know a little bit more spanish, I had the courage to go to the hair salon and ask for a trim and some highlights. Well, although its not quite as good as when Courtney does it, I am very happy! So now I dont have to worry about hair anymore!

Aside from that, today was great. During spanish class, the teacher had us walk to the outdoor market, and ask questions to the workers about the produce, meat and fish. It was a really cool experience, the market was amazing. The people there, were generally all nice, and so happy to help. 

On a totally different subject, Pat has a game tonight. It is his first home game, and he's been even quieter than usual, so I know he is nervous. He will do great, I know it. The game is at 900 tonight, and then we will go out to eat after, and then go to the bars. Its gonna be a great night!

MVP

Wow what an exciting morning. First, Pat got home pretty early, about 12:30 which was so nice. I made a big brunch for us, broccoli, mushroom and onion strata, with potatoes, which he loved! Then we were surfing the internet a little, and found out that Pat had been awarded MVP of the first week for Leb Oro! How awesome, his first game! We know there are many good things to come this season, but what an honor the first week! We are headed off to the Cathedral for mass, so we are pretty excited to see the inside. We'll let you know how it is!

First Game

Well tonight was Pat's first game, away at the Canary Islands. He arrived yesterday evening to the island, after a very long day of travel. He left the house at 8:45am, and didnt get in until after 6pm. Unfortunately, they lost the game tonight. It was a close game, basically the whole game, we were actually winning by ten late in the 3rd. Pat had an amazing first showing, with 26 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Its a pity they lost, but he did everything he could. 

He comes home tomorrow morning, which is pretty exciting cause we will have the whole day to spend together. Usually, whenever any teams fly to the Canaries, it's an entire day of travel; however, the team was lucky to have found a direct flight!

I'm so excited to have him back, cause I must say it has been very boring here without him. Yesterday I was at school, and went out for a drink after with a few friends, but since then, I've been on my own. Gets a little boring, but thankfully we have Slingbox, which is really a miracle!

Well hopefully next game will have a better ending, but I am so happy for Pat, he played so great!

Presentation Game

Well last night was a fun night! Pat and his team had the presentation game, which they won. There was a pretty good crowd, and Pat played really well! He had 16 or 18 points, and hit a big three at the end put put our team up, we wound up winning by three! The other team, Leon, was pretty good, so it was a great game.

After the game, the whole team went out to eat dinner together, and then we went to a lounge bar and then a club after. We wound up staying out a little later than we wanted, 4:30, but we were still two of the first few to leave. They stay out here so late until like 7 or 730. Its just crazy. So today we relaxed and enjoyed Pats day off. 

Pat starts up again tomorrow morning for his first practice, and then has another practice in the evening. I start up school tomorrow morning again, and let me just say that showering with freezing cold water is not fun! We told the management our hot water is messed up, so hopefully we will get that fixed soon. Until then, Pat and I will just freeze!

Amanda

Finally, a car!!

So we finally have a car. Its actually pretty big, and very nice. I dont think I will be driving it anytime soon though, cause parallel parking here is ridiculous! The spots are so small, its just crazy. Today went by so fast its just crazy. After class today, Pat met me in the city to have lunch. We found a really nice place, right in the center of the city, and had really good seafood, or actually shellfish. This region of Spain is well known for their seafood and shellfish, and this restaurant certainly did not disappoint. 

After lunch, we DROVE to the grocery store, which was so exciting. We could get whatever we wanted, because we could put them in the trunk and drive home. No walking! The grocery store was great, and we bought some really good wine and while making dinner, we drank the bottle. Pat has a game tomorrow, but he will be fine, it will have worn off by then, haha. 

Well nothing else too exciting today, Ill let you know how tomorrows presentation game goes!

Amanda

Patrick's Birthday!

Well today is Pat's 26th birthday. He is officially old. I thought 25 was old, but I changed my mind! Anyway, it was a nice day for Pat. He slept in, I went to school, and then we had lunch together. After lunch, we took a nap, and then he went to another scrimmage. So we really didnt get to spend much time together, but were making it up on Friday. He has off Friday, so we are going to meet in the city, at this really nice seafood place, have lunch and then hang out in the city. We are both really excited for that.

One thing that is really different in Spain, is that if it is your birthday, you have to bring things in. We were first clued into it last year. It was one of the spanish players birthdays, and he took the enitre team and spouses out to a really nice dinner. It was great, and he paid for it all. A little crazy, but that is what they do. So the team was asking Pat what he is doing, so now on Saturday, we are going to bring a bunch of stuff in. The team was asking if I am baking, well, I said its not my birthday, haha. Im actually baking cookies for Pat right now. I have to try and figure out what I want to bake for the team. I dont have any cake mix, so Im going to have to be creative.

Anyway, today was another day at school. At least it didnt rain. Yesterday, I was finished class, and was walking to the bus station, which is a 10 min walk, and it was down pouring. Even though I had an umbrella, i was soaked up to my knees, literally, and so hot from  trying to walk so fast. Then I got on the bus finally, after missing the first one (I saw it pulling away as i was running up the hill), and there were so many people on it, and the men smell so bad, and people are holding on to the rails, cause there were no seats left, and I had this mans armpit in my face. Needless to say, Im glad that day is over, haha.

On to better news, we looked at 2 more apartments yesterday and we really loved one of them.. It won't be done construction for 10 days, but Im pretty sure, this time, they said we could get it.  And we are supposed to get our car tomorrow, so we will see.

Well see ya soon

Amanda

First day of school

Well today was my first day of spanish class. Well I didn't exactly learn anything though. I had to initially take a placement test, which was written and oral, and then wait around for about an hour and a half for the tour of the school. The cool thing about taking classes at the University is you are allowed to use everything the school offers, so the gym, the pool, the internet and computers. They have a few cafes and a cafeteria right next to where my classes are. I met a few nice people, a few from the states, one from England and a few from Germany. Everyone was pretty nice. We were all placed in classes, and there are only 4 or 5 in my class which is so great. The less amount of people, the better, cause it is easier to learn, and its quicker to learn lessons. 

I woke up this morning, and Patrick, who is the sweetest husband ever, woke up with me and made me coffee. It was really nice cause he didn't have practice until 1130, and didn't have to get up. I think he was a bit nervous for me to take the bus by myself, but i made it just fine. I also found that where my bus stop is in the city, there are great clothing and shoe stores, so when I have time to kill, I will definitely be hanging out there!

Pat had a long practice this morning, and he has another practice now. The team added another scrimmage this week, so now he has a scrimmage Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. The scrimmage on Saturday is the presentation to the fans. It should be fun, with a good attendance, we will see. 

Well we still don't have a car, internet, and haven't heard anything with a new apartment, so after 2 weeks being here, we are still in the exact same position we were in. The good thing is we have learned that nothing gets done like it does in the US, so we are not upset, just excited for all this stuff to get going. Well let you know when anything does happen...until then

Amanda

Well another day. Its an awesome day, cause its Sunday, and its Pats day off!! Days off are the best, but they don't come very often. This weekend went pretty well. Pat won the first game, but last night they lost to Breogan. Pat played against his old teammate from St. Joe's, Bill Phillips. It was so great to see him, its amazing how seeing a familiar face, can make you feel so much closer to home! Pat played really well last night, scoring 20 points. They lost by a good amount, the second quarter was pretty bad, but they came back within 9 points in the third, but could never pull it out. We play Breogan again in a few weeks, I'm so excited cause I will get to see Amber, Bills wife!

As for today, it went by really quick but we had a great day. We got to know the bus system here, which is so easy. WE took a bus to the University, where I will begin spanish classes tomorrow. I bought a bus pass, so I am all set for this week and school to start. I can officially navigate the city, without having to drive, because that is never good for anyone. I hopefully will not crash another car overseas!

Other than that, we just took it easy, watching some tv, and studying a little to try to remember some of the spanish we learned last year. It does come back pretty fast, but there is so much to learn.

well, until tomorrow

amanda

Another Day

Well its been a good last few days. Yesterday Pat and I finally got a bank account, so that means we are able to do so many more things. For one I was able to finally get a gym membership. It was nice, and I actually enjoyed working out, which is something that doesn't happen very often. Also, today, I was able to sign up for spanish classes at santiago university. I am excited to go, but school is every weekday for a little over 4 hours. It takes a lot of time up, which is good, and i can learn the language, another good thing. Also it will allow me to meet more people, and get out of the house. Hopefully I will meet a girl, my age, that likes to shop, without children. That would be my perfect scenario. 

Pat has been having long 2 a day practices. He leaves at 10:30 am, and doesn't get home until like 3 or 3:30 in the afternoon. Then he has another practice at 6:30, and doesn't get home until 9:30. We only live 3 minutes from the gym, so there is no travel time in there. He is really tired, and hungary a lot. I feel bad, but tomorrow he only has one practice. After practice tomorrow, our plan is to cab it to the city, look around, find my school, and then have a nice dinner. So Im very excited for tomorrow.

Other than that nothing too exciting here. Still no internet at home, so I've been coming to the cafe alot, and am currently overcaffeinated!

well until tomorrow

amanda

First Scrimmage

Well last night was Pats first scrimmage with his new team! It went great! Pat knew all the plays, and looked great out there. He had 18 points, some rebounds and a few assists. I found a bunch of articles in the paper of him, which is exciting! I cant understand everything they were saying, but there were big pictures. A friend of Pats on the team, Xavi, had a brother in town, so I drove with him. It took about one and a half hours to get there. His brother spoke pretty good english, so it was a good ride. 

We still do not have internet, so both Pat and I are sitting in a cafe, drinking coffee and talking on skype. Its actually really nice and relaxing, cause no one comes out on Sundays, so we are really the only ones here. 

Tomorrow the team is going to take us to look at new apartments, so we are pretty excited about that! Ours isnt too bad right now, but it's always good to have options. 

Well thats about it for now!

Amanda

Seeing the City

Well last night was the first night we've gotten away from the hotel and been to the city. Let me first start by saying how amazing and beautiful this city is! One of Pat's team mates, Charles, drove us around and took us to a really nice italian restaurant. The restaurant was in a really old building, in the middle of the city. We sat upstairs, and there were huge windows that looked out to the center of the courtyard, where many people were sitting, eating and hanging out. It was really cool. Charles was on the team last year, so he was immediately spotted by the waitress, and from there on we had really good service. 

We walked around the city after enjoying a really good meal. The city is so old and beautiful. We just stood and looked at St. James Cathedral for a while. Its absolutely breathtaking. I cannot wait to go to church there. We continued to walk around after, where we saw many pilgrims. The pilgrims walk all throughout northern spain, and usually can be spotted with walking sticks.  We were lucky enough to catch 2 fun things while out at night. First there was this group of men signing mostly a cappella, but sometimes with a drum of guitar, with a huge audience just watching, laughing and listening. Apparently they sign funny songs, and make fun of other cultures, but we couldn't really understand much, so we just were laughing at how everyone else was cracking up hysterically.  Next we saw a huge concert, with many hippies with dreads smoking joints, right outside the cathedral. they were all dancing and swaying while smoking and listening to the music. It was hilarious. 

So thats about it. It was a great night and ill be sure to post some pictures from last night!

amanda

Arriving in Santiago

Well we arrived to Santiago around 4:00pm yesterday. It was a very long 2 flights. we first flew in to Dublin which took about five and a half hours, and neither of us could fall asleep. Then we had a 3 hour layover and flew into Santiago. The trainer picked us up, in a car that was too small, so we had to use a taxi for half our luggage. From what we have seen so far, Santiago is very beautiful. The weather and area is much different than southern spain.  It gets much colder and rains a lot in the winter, but it is so green and full of hills, very pretty!

When we arrived yesterday, they gave Pat about an hour to relax before they made him do a full practice. I felt so bad for him, because he was exhausted! I went with him, saw the gym and watched practice. The gym is really nice and a good size. Pat picked up the plays quickly, and shot well. I on the other hand was playing with the GM's eight year old daughter the whole time. She is very cute, loves music and was quizzing me on everyone from madonna to high school musical. She's funny, and speaks a little english, so we were teaching each other! Its probably better to just play with her all day, than pay for spanish lessons at the University of Santiago. Pat has one practice Friday so we are going to do a little exploring, and then sign up for spanish classes. Also at they have a "regular people" gym at the facility where Pats plays, so i am going to sign up there.

We are currently staying in a hotel, and are supposed to move to our apartment tomorrow, but nothing is ever on time, so i expect we will be in the hotel at least for a few more nights.  The hotel is in a great location. We are right in the center of the city, in the center of a bug shopping center. Awesome location, and we were told that our apartment is very close to the hotel, so my fingers are crossed. I went, by myself (wow) for a walk today around the shopping center. Its really nice, and has so many different kinds of stores. I also went to the grocery store to buy Pat bread and peanut butter, and they were all out of PB. I can't believe it. We brought a whole suitcase of food, but did not bring PB cause i knew they had it here. Hopefully they will stock up soon, and I'll just buy like 5 jars. 

Well thats about it for now, talk to everyone soon

amanda

oh the last thing Pats new team is called Beirasar Rosalia.  You can visit the teams website at cbirosalia.com. 

Visiting our nephew

Well we just got back last night from an awesome trip to Charlotte. We were able to see our new nephew Matthew Jr.. He is the cutest little baby, we didn't want to leave! We decided last minute to drive Thursday afternoon, and come back home Saturday. It was a quick trip, but worth every minute. We love holding him, and hugging him! We won't see him for a while, so we are really gonna miss the little guy!

On another note, we are leaving for Santiago, Spain, tomorrow night. We fly through Dublin, which is different, but it should be a good flight. Hopefully we will have internet right away, but most likely it will take some time for the team to get it connected. We may be in a hotel initially, and they are going to allow us to look at a few different apartments. Im really happy about that cause i will be scoping out the insect situation!

The Uncertainty

Well this is the life when you play basketball in Europe. I have realized that no matter what, nothing is ever going to go exactly as planned. Pat and I were supposed to leave Sat the 16th, for Santiago. As we were packing up the car with our luggage, Pat gets a call from his agent. Stop the packing, hold up, we don't have airline tickets, he says. All I was thinking was this has to be a joke. Well, it wasn't. The team only reserved the flights, never ordered or confirmed them. So now we are just hanging out, waiting for the team to let us know when we are actually going to be flying over to Spain.  Although its very nice to have a few extra days in the good old USA, its a little frustrating. You get in the mindset that you are leaving and won't be back, and now we have to do it all over again. 

Other than that, this weekend was great! We got to go to Justin and Stephanie's wedding, and it was so much fun. We got to spend time with great friends, eat, drink and dance a lot. It doesn't get too much better than that. Pat was the best man, and had a great speech prepared for the best man toast, it was so great. Everyone was coming up to him, saying what a great job he did. WE wish the night didnt have to end, but it did. But we have lots of pictures to remember the great night with!

Pat and I are just going to enjoy the next few days, and hopefully we will be off in no time!

Summer living

Well, it has definitely been a fun and exciting summer so far! Patrick just got back from playing with the 76ers in the Vegas summer league. He arrived this morning at 6:30, and I was never so happy to be up that early in the morning! He was away for 2 weeks, which has been the longest we've been apart since we were married. We have just found out that he is leaving at 8:00 tomorrow morning to play with the Nets for the Utah summer league. Even though I am very excited that he is going there, I wish he could be home just a little longer. We also recently found out that he received a great offer in 2nd division Spain, so that was very exciting news! We are really looking forward to seeing what the rest of the summer brings, so we will keep you posted!