WHAT A GREAT DAY

So I ended up going kayaking with just me and my host dad Fernando. As we walked over to the 'club' (basically just a gym), he was giving me a lot of pointers (not much of which I could understand.. but I would learn soon enough).

Gosh, I wish I had pictures. It felt AWESOME. He set up my kayak and... well first of all, I TOTALLY did not know or forgot that kayaks have a little stick in front for steering?!?!! I thought it was just, paddle on one side, paddle on the other... So basically, this was a full body work out... steer with the feet, row with the arms... there was only ONE time I almost tipped the boat over. He told me that the more narrow boats tip more easily, but the wider ones are more stable (and go more slowly). Obviously I had a wide one.

At first it was difficult maneuvering both the feet and the arms, but pretty soon I was doing well! I kept spilling water on myself from lifting the oars, but that combined with the BREEZE made it SOOO refreshing... I went from a little after Puente de San Telmo, ALL THE WAY Puente de la Barqueta and back again!!!! Let me show you how far that is:

THAT IS PRETTY FREAKIN LEJO FOR A FIRST TIMER

I was able to see so much of the city from the river, it was gorgeous.. I saw PATOS Y GONSOS, Y UNA TORTUGA. AND I GOT A NICE TAN. Adding to my Cadiz beach tan :D

When we came back, WE ATE PAELLA FOR LUNCH. And it was FARRRR more delicious than the paella I had at that Spanish restaurant Uncle Rich and Aunt Marlene took us to before I left.. It was so good. But then I was tired and full and I took an hour nap (the first siesta in a week!)

I still have to write my paper (only 1.5 pages but STIIIIILLLL.. it seems to be harder to write that much in another language..) and later I'm meeting mis amigos to plan VIAJES a MARRUECOS Y GIBRALTAR ETC.

And then I will skype my familia! UN DIA FANTASTICO INDEED.