Matador Muerte
This picture is hanging proudly in the house of our senora. I had walked past it several times and paid little attention to the actual picture. Once I realized that it was a painting of a matador that was literally being speared by the horn of the bull I was very surprised. Of course, it is common knowledge that compared with the "politically correct" culture of the United States, Spanish culuture is much more frank. This carries over also in the concepts of censorship. Not necessarily in the political concept but what is culturally accepted. In movies or on tv, in plays or in advertisements violent, sexual, or other scenes aren't as graphic as those not only in Spain but in Europe as a whole. Nevertheless, my American mindeset was shocked when I saw that the death of the matador rather than simply the arena of the game was a proud work of art.

La Catedral
The cathedral, por supuesto, is an important part of the heritage of Segovia. It is a powerful image and a reflection of the commonly catholic culture of the region and the country. The family I am living with here in Segovia has already talked about hour important Catholicism is to their culture and also to their family. The community which I live in, in Kentucky is very small. The religious diversity is limiited between the Church of Christ and Baptists. As a result, I have never attended a catholic church. If I have the opportunity to attend a service, I think I would be able to learn a lot about Spainsh tradition and culture. I do know that the regionalism is strong within the country of Spain. However, to some extent the tradition of the catholic church seems to carry through. As I learn more of Spain and travel more through the country I hope to see if the church is cohesive as I assume right now.

The Aqueduct

The family I am living with lives almost right next to the Roman aqueduct. Of course it is amazing to see something still functioning and in such amazing condition after nearly 2000 years. Furthermore, as I travel through the city it is possible to see other examples of the aqueduct. As I was running along a ditch or canal I saw several places which appeared to be fountains for the water in various places throughout the city. Last year I was able to see the Roman Baths in Bath, England. The experience of seeing this as well, from the same time period, speaks volumes of the success of the Romans!
On a lighter note... the aqueduct has also served as a great point of reference so that I can find my way through the city. I have been surprised also with the ease in which I have learned my way through the city and its tiny streets. Having such an iconic starting point has definitely been a help.

Crosses on the Hill
I saw these crosses outside the central plaza and I thought the plain landscape and the striking crosses was a tranquil image...
The first day in Spain it snowed quite a bit. The snow seen on this hill was a new experience for me; of course, I had seen snow but rarely so abundant. The snow seemed to fall in small sphere rather that the splash of wet, white flakes that I was accustomed to. Also I was surprised when my senora insisted that I take an umbrella with me - I had never seen someone use an umbrella for snow!