It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas?

Yeah, I suppose.

The storefronts are brimming with Christmas decor, the city's busiest streets and plazas are draped with lights. I've even been hearing American Christmas music in the grocery store. It does look a lot like Christmas, however, I'm still waiting for it all to feel like Christmas. My trip to the states is coming up quick, yet the closer it gets the more impatient I find myself. The truth is, it's just not going to feel like Christmas until I'm home, surrounded by the warmth of my family and, of course, that California sun. 19 days and counting (believe me, I'm counting). Until then, I bring you some photos of the Christmas happenings here in Madrid.
First, Christmas cards made by the second graders at my school...

Beer cap ornaments? Only in Spain...

And now, some of the light displays throughout the city...

Plaza Mayor Christmas Boutique

Giant Christmas tree in Sol...can you tell I'm cold?

I still find myself struggling with this whole wishing time away thing, which I suppose is normal? I know it has a lot to do with my decision to come here in spite of being in a new, fantastic, relationship. Making the decision to do the long distance thing was easy. After falling so in love with Donny, it didn't make sense to try anything else. Long distance itself, however, is very hard. I keep reminding myself that this distance thing isn't forever. I believe that only the truest love could last over long distance, and so far we're making it happen. It isn't easy, and it's not fun, but in the end it will be incredibly rewarding. Being with Donny gives me more great things to look forward to. When my time in Madrid has ended, and I pack my things to come home, I'll be coming back to something and someone very special. And finally, without the 9 hour time difference, countless Skype dates, and digital love letters, Donny and I will get to start our future together. Another wonderful adventure, imagine the blogs about that will come then!

It's so easy to complain, and I find myself doing it way too much here. I miss my family, my boyfriend, English, warm weather, blahblahblah. But, honestly, I've got it so good. I'm healthy and blessed with love and friends and opportunity. I have a roof over my head, and warm clothes, and a bed to sleep in at night. I get to travel. I get to see my entire family for Christmas. I am incredibly lucky.