Highlights, thoughts, and observations from week one

I'm coming up on my first full week in Spain. You know what that means (well actually you probably don't). What that means is that it's time for an update. Going to try to keep up with this thing this year.

• Work will be more challenging this year, but that's a good thing. Last year I wasn't asked to plan much outside of class. It was nice not having "homework," but I think I would have gotten more out of it had I been a larger part of the preparation. This year I can already tell the expectations will be higher. Also, I get to help out with bilingual Geography and History classes. Score.
• Apartment found! I'll be moving in on Friday at the latest as the landlord has some last minute shuffling to take of. I'll be rooming with an English guy and a Spanish girl. The place has a great feel. It's open, spacious, and well-lit. Fortunately Spanish apartments always come completely furnished so at the most I may have to buy some bed sheets. Another bonus: Heat is included in my already cheap rent. So unlike last year, I won't be using the "can I see my breath test" to decide whether to turn on my heat.
• It's nice to be in a city. Ok, so Valladolid (around 300,000 strong) isn't a major metropolitan area or anything. However, compared to my living situation last year (2,500 people), everyday here seems like a gift. I can be anonymous yet I can still run into people I know. I can walk anywhere I need to be in 25 minutes or less. There is a university which means the local "scenery" is never lacking. I can catch some of the world's best soccer teams right here in town. And the best part? I don't feel like I'll go insane if I don't get out of town on the weekend, and that alone is enough to keep me happy.