Ugh.... rain

Our third straight day of rain.

Today we took a bus tour of Madrid. We had anticipated it being an open-topped double decker, so we were a bit apprehensive. We were grateful to see a ginormous tour bus! Our tour guide, Anna, lulled us with her raspy smoker voice as she described the sights of the city. Mostly telling us about the parks, gardens, monuments and government buildings. It wasn't the most exciting outing, but we feel like we got the basics.

At least seven or eight times during the tour Anna pointed out to us quaint public squares and parks - "that are lined with cafes and benches that are perfect during the spring and summer - but not now." Great. So for now we are stuck with the tiny, crowded, smokey cafes that have raw meat and fish hanging in the corners. Interestingly, we've discovered that every restaurant offers a variety. No matter the atmosphere, they all offer food, smoothies, beer, hard liquor, wine, tapas, fresh squeezed OJ, pastries, cappuccino, and ice cream.

This afternoon we continued our shopping adventures in the rain. This time we took our umbrellas - much better. Eventually, it paid off - Allison found the perfect boots! Be sure to ask her about them upon our return. I also found a pair, so it was a successful day.

To escape from the rain again today we stopped in Starbucks and found comfy seats right next to the window. We had the perfect view to watch all the passers-by in "times square" below as their umbrellas whipped and flipped in the wind and rain. Ugh. We sat there and enjoyed reading our books for about an hour. A young college guy from Ireland joined us and we ended up chatting with him for about another hour. We talked politics, education, fashion, taxes, travel... it was quite fun!

After dinner tonight we found the best pastry place and savored an amazing caramel tart and a chocolate one too! Paired with hot coffee and great conversation - it was the perfect way to end our rainy day in Madrid.

Tomorrow we jump the train again to Seville. After our 40-something degrees today, we think the 67 and sunny prediction for Seville tomorrow sounds like a little piece of heaven. We can't wait!