Dear Spain,

I remember how scared I was of starting our relationship. I didn't know if we'd go well together, and prayed that the language barrier wouldn't be so much of an issue. I knew that I would eventually improve my communication skills, but it was quite tough at first and it took a few weeks before I was comfortable being with you.

You weren't slow in opening up to me, that's for sure! Loud, colourful and full of zest, you took my hand and led me from city to city, zipping this way and that, showing me beautiful churches, old monuments, and gorgeous beaches. Thanks for reminding me to take my camera, by the way. You know how forgetful I can sometimes be.

You're quite amazing, you know that? Yeah, you're something of a macho and you really SHOULD stop smoking like a chimney, but I loved you nonetheless and wouldn't have changed you for the world. I'm glad you got rid of your mullet after the summer of '05...although lately it has been slowly growing back. Chop it off for good, ok? Miss France is starting to gag...

However, all good things come to an end. I can't be with you anymore. It was really fun while it lasted and I'll never, ever forget you, but I have to leave. It's not your fault, trust me. I just have to go back to climb up that ladder called life.

I know, I know...it's...painful. There's no easy way to say it. It's now or never, I guess.

I don't have much time left and it's better to end it now than to wait at the last possible moment and let it be even more painful.

There aren't many bad things I can say about you. It seems like the longer we were together, the more I fell in love with you. Damn you for introducing me to chorizo, chistorra, tortilla...and how on earth did you manage to make me love olives? You're quite the little devil, aren't you?

Don't worry. I'm not saying that we'll lose touch and that this is the end, forever. One never knows what the future holds and someday I'll come back to visit you and we'll toast the event with a Cruzcampo Caña and a nice bowl of fresh, green olives. You'll blow smoke in my face and forget to apologize to me when your feet bump into mine under the table, but I won't care.

Living in your surroundings was one of the best things that happened to me. Wow, do you ever have heat over there. I'll miss those 200 plus days of sun...any chance of leaving me a bit in my suitcases for when I move back to the land of poutine?

Ok, so I'll end this here. It's not a final goodbye, but it is goodbye.

I guess I don't have to say that I'll shed a tear at the airport.

Side Note:
Thanks Guys: Gavin, Dearbhla, Caspar, Kevin, Iñigo, Aloha, Donna, Theresa, Belén, Abel, Mercedes, Angel, Carmen, Mónica, Inma, Juan Fran, Lloic, Roberto, Vince, Kelly, Katie, Jason, Randy, etc..."Rock On." You guys made my last 2 years incredible.

I'd also like to thank my friends and loved ones back in Canada...thanks for not forgetting about me, guys. Your emails, postcards, letters meant the world to me.

I'm now off to Rome. Exciting times are ahead.

I'll be home soon, everyone.

(kiss kiss on both cheeks)

Heidi xoxo

Bohemian Like You

HAPPY 2ND SPANISH ANNIVERSARY, CHIQUITITA!
Exactly 2 years ago, I set foot on hot, spanish soil. Excitement and fear were in my bones, but I was prepared to make the most of my time here. And boy, did I ever. There are too many great memories that I experienced, too many great people that I met here. I'm glad that I also kept a paper journal to record all of my weekly doings.
I feel so...blessed. Happy. I'll leave Spain with a big fat smile on my face (and probably a sad tear or two) knowing that my stay here was a success.
These experiences made me realize that I've changed in many good ways. I'm much stronger mentally (perhaps even physically from lifting all of those disgustingly heavy suitcases?) and know that I can make it on my own. Being away from all those you really love gives one time to think, and yes...it was hard in the beginning, but it always is a bit, ain't it? Then it gets easier.
I want to say thank you to my friends and loved ones who read this blog. I'm glad I kept close contact with all of you...thanks for the post cards, the letters, the emails, etc...it was appreciated.
Oh, the Knoo wants me to let you all know that she says hi. Ok, ok...now get off my lap, Knoo.
Today I'm celebrating with the kids the last day of school...bought some little cakes, sweets, kinder chocolate...they should be happy.
I know I am.
xoxoxoxoxo H

Lisbon: A Plethora of Pictures

One of my favourite pics, oddly enough.

Apparently, the whole world loves insults.

Comments? I had a fabulous time in Lisbon and really enjoyed the food as well.

I've been crazy busy at work, which explains my lack of writing a novel here, like I usually do.
2 more weeks of work left!

Can't believe it.

H xoxoxox