I am reacclimating, slow but sure, after almost two weeks in Spain, which is 9 time zones ahead of Pacific Time. While I’m still dragging just a bit, I can now see the end in sight regarding my jet lag.

This trip may have been our best yet. Our guide, Christopher, was sensitive, knowledgeable, and forward-thinking. He and I worked very well together, resulting in a relaxed, well-organized trip. My husband, Ray, served as the “sweeper” on our walking tours, making sure folks at the back of the line felt cared for and safe. Alessandro from Custom Italy did his part to ensure all details were in place, providing a seamless travel experience.

Our writing group met daily for an hour, during which time we wrote and also shared. This year was unique because we included several men who wished to join. Since we are usually an all-women writing group, this addition felt slightly different. However, the men who participated were sensitive and safe, and we all quickly bonded. Before the end of the trip, we had the chance to get to know each other very well through our writing. I was very happy to facilitate such an open and talented group of writers.

Besides all the sightseeing and writing, I had the unique opportunity to host a book reading and signing at the Come In English Bookshop in Barcelona. There, I read excerpts from my novel, answered questions, and signed books for over 25 people. A dream come true!

I am feeling exceedingly grateful for the opportunity to travel and write in such a scenic and welcoming country as Spain with a group of generous and kind fellow travelers. I now have happy memories that I’ll enjoy revisiting for years to come.

Thank you, Story Circle Network, for once again sponsoring such a lovely European experience. Our fourth international trip since 2019 was a tremendous success. Now it’s time to think about where we hope to go next!

Here’s to travel, writing, and the making of new friends.

A few photos along the way:

Our group in front of the Royal Palace in Madrid

Guernica at the Reina Sophia Museum in Madrid

The Prado Art Museum

The Royal Palace in Madrid

1/2 of our Group at a Tapas Tour (the other half were at a different restaurant)

Todedo

Avila

The Roman Aqueduct at Segovia

Barcelona: La Sagrada Familia Cathedral

Barcelona: Park Guell

Rest Stop at Park Guell

Girona

Greek and Roman archaeological site on the Mediterranean near France

Montserrat

The Basilica at Montserrat

Barcelona’s “Come In” English Bookshop

That’s me reading excerpts from Hope in a Time of Dying to 25 people in Barcelona