So Thursday I went to orientation again. Almost being late and nearly sprinting through the rain was incredibly worth it for a 5 minute presentation on safety at the university. Bottom line: just don't be stupid. Afterwards we were introduced briefly to all the individuals that would be working with us at ICADE in the business department. We then had time to speak to each of these people individually. Still though, no real opportunities to make friends.

After this we went to the basement where I figured out my email, username, password, etc. Although I'm still not sure if the email will work. I then made about 5 more copies of my passport as that's just like cocaine to these people. Note: the printers are impossible. You must ask at least 2 people for help and ruin their printing experiences. But they were both extremely nice.

After this we went to Tim's apartment where we had delicious pasta that I inhaled to get back to my room on time to go to the bank. I had met my landlord on Wednesday and he had to be paid! But the bank was closed and I was late anyway. Beware the 6 line on the metro and Tim's apartment entrance-- both like to detain you.

So I got groceries and just hung out until later that night when we went to a club. Arielle slept over and the next day we awoke-- very late mind you-- and got coffee, juice, and a panini. I discovered that I made the 4th highest (out of 6 levels) in my Spanish proficiency test! I am officially "vantage or intermediate". I'm actually thrilled.

We were going to go to Palacio Real but instead went to Reina Sofia, an amazing modern art museum. We met Tim, Maggie, and some of Tim's roommates there and poked around discussing various pieces. I had been shaking with excitement because my guidebook told me something very interesting: Reina Sofia is the home of Pablo's Guernica. This immense piece honestly choked me up. Having studied it I was able to discuss various aspects and what it means. Arielle read the overview sheet and shed even more light onto the painting. Truly an awesome work.

We searched for my favorite Picasso, something I know as The Blue Woman aaaaand I was wrong. It's actually called Blue Nude. And it doesn't live at the Reina Sofia apparently. I was displeased, but nothing could ruin unbelievable art in front of me.

We left the museum and went out for a light dinner and sangria. I tried shrimp eggs, oxtail, and manchego cheese. All actually very delicious. I'm really trying here to handle the seafood. So far, so good-ish.

We then went back to my apartment and hung out until we left for a house party in the suburbs. It was all very American. I made friends with someone from Scotland and then took a cab home. I stayed up watching things on my computer and got up very late today. I've finally showered, cleaned up, and had something to eat. Soon enough though, Arielle and I are heading over to Maggie's to make dinner and maybe watch a movie. Just a nice, easy night :)

Pictures of Guernica and Reina Sofia to come

Things I learned today:

1. I don't know if I could ever suck the brains out of a shrimp. But I heard it's the best.

2. I bought really cheap cookies but I looooooove them

3. The milk I bought is funny tasting. Apparently not all things cheap are tasty.

4. My protective keychain from my brother almost got me arrested at the art museum. That was terrifying. Luckily what appeared on the x-ray couldn't be found in my purse. The most distressing thing is that they thought I would cut pieces of art. I was appalled.

5. Pasta carbonara made by my roommate is unbelievable.