Home Sweet Home

Hello everyone in TV land!

I'm happy to say that I blogging this from a real computer at my Katy-home in Katy, Texas. (Hopefully I won't have as many typos thanks to autocorrect and lack of sleep)

It's good to be home. Our travel schedule on the way back was pretty tough.We had wake-up calls at 6 AM and left the hotel by 7 to head to the airport. Our flight left around 10 am to Barcelona, then a 2 pm flight to Miami. After 10 hours on the second plane we dealt with customs (which was pretty simple) and after a 3 our layover, flew to Houston. At this point we had been up for over 24 hours with plane-sleep. I got to see Rio on the long flight, and we were fed well, aside from the fact that most of the food was ham and cheese sandwiches. My dad picked up me up at the airport so I wouldn't endure the bus ride back to San Antonio and we went home to Katy so I could see Momma.

It's so nice to be "home" even though I'm still not in Austin. I showed them some of my souveniers and shared some stories and the gifts I had brought them. I said hi to the dogs and cats and then somehow made it upstairs to sleep for over 10 hours. I got up today and had eggs and refried beans for breakfast (YES!!!) and went to the gym for a proper workout. Lunch was a huge salad with greens. Oh, how I missed my spinach and broccoli.

What a trip. I am glad to be taking the rest of the week off to get back to my life. Laundry, cleaning my apartment, grocery shopping, etc. is a must. Life is going to come back to me like a slap in the face with a busy week of 20-somethings events and starting work again on Monday. The trip was the perfect amount of time. I was able to completely let go (and let God) of everything and focus on His call. I will appreciate everything that I have now and know what I can live without. I will be more patient, tolerant and see God in more things than ever. I won't miss the bread, the walking or my luggage, but I will miss the spirit, the Malagenos and the freedom.

I'm inspired now to continue to travel around the world. I think I'll mainly want to go on Catholic pilgrimages or vacations. I might even consider a work camp or a mission trip. I want to learn more languages and about more cultures. I realized that my geography stinks. I want to read more and do less. I hope my life doesn't come back and whisk me away so quickly that I'll forget to stop and thank God for everything He has done for me, my family and my friends.

While WYD may be over, I know it's only the beginning.

Last day in paradise

Today was our last day in Madrid. We woke up in these awesome personal full size beds well rested for the first time in two weeks.

We had a breakfast buffet at the hotel that was like heaven. We have been used to a juice box, a Cola Cao (chocolate milk drink) and a prepackaged pastry full of preservatives for the last few days. This buffet had an array of fruits like kiwi, watermelon, dewmelon, oranges and more, cereals and granola, milk, yogurt, peach, pineapple and mixed fruit juices, breads, jams, olive oil and tomato salsa, meats, cheeses, eggs and sausages and of course, fresh coffee. It was amazing! This hotel continued to rock our world.

We spent our day shopping and looking at the modern art in the Reina Sofia museum. I was most happy to see more Picasso, including the Guernica. We had a really late lunch of pizza and headed back by 6 to take a power nap until 8:30 or so. Ashley was still tired, so I went to the lobby and chatted with a few people and listened to their stories. We had a meeting at ten, took some pictures and I passed on dinner since it was already 11 and I went up to join Ashley in packing al of the stuff we had obtained in Spain.

I'm sure I'll reflect on many things in future blogs, but as I am leaving Spain I know that part of me is thinking about how it is all over. But then I feel a wave of joy and hope and realize that the trip might be over, but that everything else is just beginning. I have much more to take home than souvenirs. There are lessons that were learned and experiences I will never forget. I hope that I can continue to recognize God working in my life in everything that I do and that I will see Him in others. I practiced my tolerance, patience and strength. I prayed a lot and have answers to some of my concerns and more things to discern. I have grown in my faith due to the challenges (physical and spiritual) and hope that I can keep the fire burning.

With God's help, I know I can.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

The Vigil Mass

When I left off, we were taking a power nap around midnight. At one AM we got up and packed up to try and venture to the other side. We walked 3 miles in the dark with dozens of other pilgrims to attempt to get to our rightful section.

When we arrive there are dozens of cops and people at the gate. They stopped letting people in. We were really upset and so were plenty of people. They were not letting anyone in for anything -- no bathrooms either. People who had left couldn't even get back in to their families, car keys, stuff or children. Minors got separated from their groups and it was chaos as it was after 2 am and most of us had been without a proper lunch or dinner. Ashley went to wait with the stuff on the rocky hill with the other rejected pilgrims while I waited in a small mob to get some food. They were bringing trucks of boxes of the pilgrim's meals up to the gate to let us pick up with our coupons. I started talkin to a guy from Poland with long dreads and a nice young man from South Africa. We expressed our frustrations with the system. Apparently sections G, H, and J were for the locals and the pilgrims were "inside" the hill barrier in C-F. They made a HUGE mistake by not checking our badges and let in locals into he wrong sections so there was no room for us. Also our food was inside, not out where thousands of people were misplaced. There were two million people there! As I was talking, the South African grabbed my meal tickets. I freaked out at first like a WWII person with ration tickets, but then he explained his buddy was in line and would get my bags for me. It was super nice of him. Once we got our food, his friend told me that being inside wasn't very great because many of the people were being disrespectful to tue event and partying-- not caring who was on and at the alter! He also said girls were dressed like prostitutes (how good -- a man who knows modest is best!) and that people were drinking and playing music. I'm glad that at least we had quiet time during adoration.

I went back and Ashley and I went to bed around 3 am on some rocky ground. We got up around 7 to find out that we could still not get in. Instead of waiting, (we both still had to go to the bathroom) we walked back the three miles with all of our stuff plus our food and found a spot near a large TV screen at least. We waited, ate some food and went to the lovely portapotties.

Mass was amazing. It was in multiple languages and over two million people were there. The communions song was Here I Am, Lord and it was so magnificient. After the long day and night that we had, the Mass with the Pope was the peace and healing that we needed. While here wasn't enough communion for everyone, the spiritual communion was sufficient. My favorite part was everyone saying the Our Father together with the Holy Father in dozens of languages. We are all one Church!

After that we knew that all of our suffering was worth it. We felt like real pilgrims and thought about how it must be in other countries. Or how it was at Pentacost, or during a medieval passage. We thought we had rights. A right to get into our section. A right for our food and bathroom access. A right to do what we wanted. We were kicked out. Moved. Told no and not given a reason. Other people got what we deserved and what we expected. We were very disappointed to be denied what we felt were our rights. It was humbling and surreal to feel like we were less than human. We had no control and had no say. It was an eye opening experience and I'll never forget it. Now I might understand how others feel and how it is to be on the outside. It was living the Litany of Humility to the extreme.

Going back to town was a mess too. We waited a bit and then walked 4-5 miles to a metro stop and waited in a huge crowd for our turn to get smashed and squished into a metro and get back home. We then had to get all of our luggage (heavy!) and walk to the hotel.

What a 180! The hotel is so nice! We walked in to a nice lobby and onto elevators that looked down into an atrium. Our first thoughts were that we each had a bed, multiple plugs, hot water and a TV. And we could control the air conditioner. The balcony had a beautiful view of the city and we had a huge mirror. It was amazing to lay on a bed and have clean bodies! We dressed up in dresses and went with our gang to have mass again with the Bishop since we didn't all get communion. After that Ashley and I went to find a nice Italian place for dinner and got gelato. It was such a nice evening after such a moving experience.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Praying for rain

Continued from earlier... (if this posts out of order, please read other one first!)

It's 11:37pm and I'm sitting on our makeshift bed. When I left off we finally arrived to Cuatro Vientros. We are in E7 but due to some circumstances our section and the other sections on the inside were filled up with the wrong people. We waited around for a bit and camped out. We finally got some water and we felt better. We made some friends, traded stuff and waited. Eventually they told us to go set up in G and wait. Also, we couldn't get to the food sections where they take our coupons, so a few moms bought some overpriced sandwiches for us. It helped but it was still a small meal for all the energy that we had spent.

This is when it gets good. After all the heat, dehydration and sunburn, we notice storm clouds coming. The lightning was beautiful and magical until it got closer and brighter. We immediately shoved all of our stuff and ourselves to the middle of our tarp and went for cover. It rained for about 20 minutes and we huddled while praying a rosary. We seemed to have adopted a man from Kenya and his young son who had come with out a group. The child was squeezed in next to me so I put my arm around him and he tried to pray with us in his very best English. It was a magnificent yet scary moment.

After the rain cleared we got up and Ashley and I ventured to get information. We walked over towards the huge line of portapotties and got perfect timing to see the Pope lead adoration. We felt so graced and it was a moment I'll never forget. As we kneeled in the dirt on our flip flops, we thought of the long day we'd had, our futures and how spoiled and
fortunate we really are. We met some people and found out that we might not get to get to our section tonight, but we might try here in a bit after Ashley takes a power nap. People are leaving. Some are sleeping. Others are singing, banging drums and dancing. I hear tambourines, drums, chants and chatter.

This has been the toughest day that I can remember. It beats teaching Drum Corps or and camping trip. We tested our teamwork and our patience. We have felt true thirst and true hunger. We have walked until we could go no
more and then went more. We welcomed new people and witnessed the Pope in Adoration. The rain cooled us down and got rid of the dry dusty atmosphere and sent a fresh breeze.

Tomorrow after mass we flip our trip over and stay in a hotel. A bed, a hog shower and privacy. Many things we can take for granted. Hopefully we can get in dresses and enjoy our last night in Spain in style at a nice restaurant and celebrate all of the gifts God has given us.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

The Ultimate Challenge

Here I am writing from Cuatro Vientros on a tarp in the middle of at least a million people, probably up to 2.

This is a combination of Woodstock, the Quidditch World Cup, ACL times 50, or some futuristic war refugee camp. We walked over 13 miles with about 15-20 pounds of luggage on our backs. We are here to camp out and see the Pope, if we can and have mass with him tomorrow morning.

My feet are disgusting. I can't name a body part that doesn't hurt. We were supposed to be fed by 4 and it's almost 8 and we have only had breakfast and assorted nuts. We are tired, sweaty, burned and fatigued. We walked for over 6 hours in the heat of the day. Even though our group of 21 that wanted to walk the whole entire way almost didn't make it, we made it here together. We had to stop a few times and we suffered some minor injuries but I know none of us would change anything.

God came to our rescue many times. There were no water stops that we found along the way, but the good people of Spain were pouring buckets, emptying water bottles and spray hoses out of their windows to douse us with water. We came across a few fountains on the way and we soaked our bandanas and other people jumped in. It was a relief. There were times when we were too tired to say anything, but we were able to pray the Divine Mercy and a rosary to offer up our suffering for the intentions that we brought with us from our family and friends. Everytime someone needed water, a snack, a break, pain meds or help, we were there to help each other. We sang songs and smiled a people along the way. After a while it got too crowded and we had to hold hands and go single file through the huge crowds. It was fun to see smiles from people as we passed and hear shouts of "USA!" and "Deep in the Heart of Texas". We waved at the locals and yelled out countries that we passed. One time I heard a group of Koreans singing a beautiful song and it moved me to tears.

Just seeing the huge amount of people here all saying the same thing in different ways is overwhelming. You see hundreds of flags in every direction. You hear songs and chants from all over the world. It's so unifying.

More later from the final mass...

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Rapping for the Pope

On Friday, we got up as usual with our annoying voice and music. "Goood morning! Evreebody git ah-up!"

We made Texas bracelets to trade in the hallway while we charged our camera batteries. Did I mention we have one outlet for 30 people in our room? It's a mess.

We decided to go to Catechesis in another part of town so we could be closer to our buddy's performance. Joe Melendrez and some others had a stage set up right across from where the Pope was staying and had a Catholic rap show scheduled. We went to Catechesis for a bit and then ventured to get some breakfast and coffee. We found a cute shop nearby and I got cafe con leche, Ashley got hot chocolate and we both got amazing ham, cheese and egg sandwiches. It was much better then our morning pastry! We met some girls from Ireland and enjoyed talking about our homes. I got a little lephrechan key chain!

When we got over to the performance area, there were many policemen and cars. We've been yelling like Bon Qui Qui, "suh-curity!" There were also a group of young boys dressed and acting as a mini Swiss guard outside the Pope's hotel. We were shuffled around a lot by the guards on where we could stand to see the show. We met some French people and a whole lot of people from Los Angeles. We hung out here for a few hours for the show and danced around in the heat of the day with anticipation that the Pope would drive in. After a good deal of pushing and crowding (and waiting) the Pope came home from lunch and we got to see him! He was in an unmarked car but he did drive right by us. We shortly after saw the Pope Mobile too! How fun.

We spent the rest of the day shopping and decided to go by the Sports Complex where the English speaking events were. We found out that they were filming the Way of he Cross, an artistic representation of all the stations of the cross. We knew we didn't want to face the huge crowds to see the ceremony in person, but we caught the latter portion of the Way and enjoyed seeing the Pope up close and on the big screen, not to mention the artwork for each stations. The official WYD cross was carried by different groups from station to station and they represented their countries and their struggles. For example one group had suffered from drug addictions and another was made up of pilgrims from Japan and Haiti, since they represent the suffering from natural disasters. The program ended with a speech from the Pope.

It was a nice way to end the busy day. I'm beginning to reflect a lot on how fortunate we are to have the lives we have.

You are blessed and loved.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

The Art of Crowd Control

On Thursday we went on our backpack free day. After a bit of Catechesis, we went to try and join a ProLife Flash Mob. We didn't find it, but we found some nice Irish people also here for the dance. Since it was a bust, we joined some Brazilians for a group dance. :D it was fun and in a circle that kept adding new people. Then we went to the Prado museum to see art by Raphael, Goya, El Greco, Velasquez, Rembrant and more. We rented the audio four guides and enjoyed some special exhibits based on Christ. It was amazing! I realized how much I enjoy museums and bcos j should go to the ones in Austin.

After that we ventured to the park (Berlin). We hung out in the grass for a bit and watched boys play with soccer balls and kids climb a jungle gym. Old ladies were chattering as parents took some time away from the park on some benches. It was a nice moment.

After we went by the Lifeteen XLT event for a little while. When we were getting on our way back to get some food, the metros were POURING out Italians and other CL (Communion and Liberation) members to a party. It was probably over a thousand people passing by us in a matter of minutes.

The metros are also filled to the brim. Pilgrims are everywhere. It's like as busy as Times Square at New Year's on every corner and in every store and pouring in and out of the Metro! Luckily Ashley and I travel in a party of two instead of 15, so its not bad to get through a group of people. We still get smashed in the Metro trains and have had our share of smelling body odor!

That's the last thing I will miss when I return.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Meeting people and trading things

Today Ashley and I did a much better job at displaying our American pride. By now, everyone walks around waving flags, wearing tshirts and carrying other things that represent their countries such as hats, bracelets or blow up kangaroos. (love those Aussies!)

When you run into people sometimes you say hi and acknowledge if you actually recognize their flag, or ask where they are from. We've been handing out cards left and right and sometimes we are able to trade items such as bracelets, key chains, bandanas or hats. Today was our best day yet -- we were able to meet some nice Irish girls, ate lunch with some Aussie ladies and talked to many Italians throughout the day. We got items from Holland, Taiwan, Italy, Kuwait and more! Tomorrow is supposed to be the best time to trade so I'm going to take all of my stuff and see what I can trade and who we can meet.

The coolest thing about meeting fellow Catholics from around the globe is finding out that sometimes we have similar sentiments about our countries and our government. No rights for the unborn, tryin to equalize everyone and broken promises. It's easier to be a Catholic in the United states than other countries and it's good to be able to recognize it and appreciate the liberty we have. It's also fun to deal with language barriers and listen to each other share stories and experiences.

It's nice to see that we trade more than just trinkets.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Demonstrations

I did a lot of different things today including the ProLife conference, a long stroll down Gran Via, plus seeing the Palacio Real and the Cathedral. The biggest ordeal were the anti-Catholic demonstrations at the Puerta del Sol. We came up from the Metro at night and there were huge areas of the streets blocked off by a dozen police vans and tens of cops. Apparently there were some upset Spanish people marching in protest against us Catholics doting signs that talk bad about the pope -- about him being anti-condoms and not having to pay for this event while their taxes are rising. What they don't realize is how much we love their country and how much money we are putting into their economy. I saw people carrying mean signs on the Metro and I peeled anti-Catholic stickers off walls and street signs. Someone told Ashley to "Go Home" since she was wearing a pilgrim's backpack.

Don't worry! There were so many police men there and we were well surrounded by other Catholic pilgrims. We also think that the enemy is hopping mad but we are glad God showed us the demonstations so we know what is going on. I feel proud to be here in Madrid with a million fellow Catholics. It's so powerful to see Our Church represented in dozens of languages and cultures. No other denomination could hold an event like this. We are strong and we are full of faith. No paper sign is going to worry us because God is in control.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Choosing Wisely

World Youth Day might be for the young at heart, but it's not for the weak. We have already had a number of people in our group be sick or get hurt. Last night was the Opening Mass with the Cardinal of the Archdiocese of Madrid. Think Catholic mosh pit for a mile. Everyone was pushing and smashing up on people. It was pretty intense. Ashley and I had to evacuate through some Germans, more Italians (they are everywhere!) and some people from Africa. I heard later that a few people had fainted. It was chaos!

You have to choose very wisely. While I would love to be drinking wine around the clock, I know I would be hurting myself the next day. We are woken up at 7am by music and Father Eddie talking. They played songs like Ghostbusters and Eye of the Tiger. We get to bed around 1am if we are lucky, usually 1:30am. We take showers that are ice cold and can't even stand it long enough to properly wash he conditioner out of our hair! We walk in the heat, all
over, with stuffed backpacks and sweat. Have I mentioned that I love it all? It's strengthening to suffer a bit. it's comforting to know that you're not alone. Plus, we know it's only temporary. Before long we'll realize we're home and it is all over. "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger."

Therefore, we've been having to take special care of our bodies. I try to stretch at night and we try to pick healthy foods. We have meal tickets that get us meals at marked restaurants around town. We just had a great meal -- a tuna sandwich on fresh grain bread, an orange juice with Matcha and a rooibos tea. Yum! Our breakfasts have been more meager than we were used to -- a chocolate filled croissant, orange juice box and Cola Cao, like Yoohoo. My multivitamin and Emergen-C packets are probably he only things keeping me moving after being exhausted. That and cafe con leche. :)

Stay hydrated!

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Viva la Vida!

Hello from the official Viva la Vida Prolife Conference! We are here with people from all over the world talking about their prolife movements in Ireland, Canada, Australia, Spain, the US and more. We had mass with Father Stan Fortuna (go google him, he's a great speaker and talented rapper and jazz musician) and have various talks by organizations. Even Lila Rose is speaking later -- she sat behind us in mass. :)

It's interesting to see that the issue of rights for the unborn are a world wide problem -- even in countries where abortion is still illegal. McKenna is here too and we have been telling people about Heroic Media and our work doing mass media. We got some neat swag and information about other groups that really involve youth and young adults in defending life from conception to natural death, and creating a culture of life. Closely related are an awareness of chastity and loving our neighbors, especially disabled, young and very old. I hope to grab a few shirts and we'll see what people say about them in Austin. So inspiring and energizing.

Check out the prolife conference online for more information on the event.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Welcome to Madrid!

After a long bus ride, we got to Madrid around 7:30 pm on Monday night. We got to our school and waited around for a while. Some of the boys played a pickup game of soccer with some Spaniards and we snacked and waited. We were subjected to an icebreaker and a load of announcements. Eventually we got our assignments and Ashley and I headed to the gym and set up shop in the dance studio. We had to venture on our own for dinner, so we had some amazing pizza and glasses of much needed wine. We ran (literally) back to the school and we all had to be subjected to the showers. Imagine a courtyard with a bunch of hoses connected to shower spouts. Then add some cheap plastic curtains with Coca-Cola on them around the square. That's it! We had to get in with our bathing suits to shower in ice cold water. Since Ashley and I had done some sprints beforehand, (and possibly due to the glass of wine) we though the showers were not that bad. I was thankful we had showers at all, plus, scalding showers are much worse!

We went to bed around one and got some decent sleep. We tackle Madrid in the morning! I'm looking forward to seeing the city and everything WYD has to offer.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

EPCOT, Catholic style

Here I am in Madrid's Parque de Buen Retiro looking up at some trees after a half day of exploring the city on our first full blown WYD. I've clocked in 5.25 miles so far and it's only 4 pm.

I feel like I'm at EPCOT. Everywhere we look we see groups carrying flags from all over. I hear voices cheering, singing and talking in every language. Big groups, small groups and religious people left and right. It's overwhelming!

We started in Plaza del Sol and walked around in the general direction of the Parque. We saw many things and talked to people from all over! We then took a tour of the familia Segrada by the late Gaudi.

After lunch of pork, potatos, a side salad and tiramisu we visited the vocational fair, saw 200 concessionals and stopped by adoration. Now it's nap time!

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Saying Adios

Saying goodbye is really hard. We left Malaga this morning with full stomachs, warm hugs and happy hearts all while trying to hold back tears. (and failing miserably) You might think it's strange, but everyone got so close and comfortable with our families that we were all crying when we left Malaga. Ashley and I said goodbye to Ester (we thought it was Estelle!) and the kiddos this morning after one more good breakfast, a good shower and a strong cup of espresso. Angel (age9) gave us pictures that he drew for us and we took some family pictures. We got to mass really late, but we were there to listen to the communion songs. We teared up more when we realized we were singing "One Bread, One Body". It may have been the lyrics, or just hearing a familiar tune, that it felt like home.

"One Bread, One body, one Lord of all. One cup of blesssing which we bless. And we, though many, throughout the earth, we are One body in this one Lord."

We are both contagious criers, so we kept telling each other to stop it. :)

During mass, our coordinator made some announcements and we thanked our host families. I cant even describe the huge amount of sacrificial love that we experienced in a matter of days. What was amazing to hear was that the families were thanking us for allowing them to be Christ to us. Wow. If we were not already crying, we all felt tons of emotions at that comment. We said our goodbyes and Teto told us that the reason that Ester didn't drop us off was because she's super emotional and didn't want to break down. I'm sure if she was there we all would have bawled like babies. She is such a sweetie. (muy amable)

It is such a powerful feeling to accept such hospitality. I've been reflecting on how this community just opened their homes and their hearts to us pilgrims and took such good care of us. They fed us so well, if not too much, and made sure we had a great time. They were so accommodating and kind. I felt loved from the start -- before they even knew me. It's such a parallel to how we should be to our fellow man.

I hope that I can someday return the favor, or pay it forward. I am going to miss my host family! Ashley and I are convinced that we got the best family! Both Teto and Ester were so animated, goofy and hysterical. We had such a good time getting to know each other and sharing stories and showing pictures. I got their address so I can send them Texas postcards.

Now we are on the bus back to Madrid. We anticipate traffic, as many pilgrims will be traveling today. I'm not sure what to expect tonight, but I think we are staying in a school.

Goodbye Malaga! I hope I can come back someday. The real pilgrimage begins today. No more privacy, hospitality or feasting. I'll need to tolerate more. It will be hotter. It will be crowded. I'm not sure how to prepare for this, so I'll have to keep the faith. Luckily, I have plenty of that (and am actively working on more).

A Madrid!

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Last day in Malaga

Today is our last day in Malaga! Triste! (Sad!)

We went to mass this morning at ten as usual. It always actually starts at 10:15 or so, Spanish time. :D

After mass we went to the beach! We got some chairs under a sombrilla (sun umbrella) and got just enough sun and some dips into the cold and super salty Mediterranean sea. The beach was very crowded and we saw people of every shape, age and size from old lady, topless women, Men's Health magazine wannabes and little naked kids. It was very hot -- especially the sand! Hot tamale! Celeste, Michelle, Ashley and I then took our things I search of two important things: shade and ice cream. We found a gelato place and camped for a while and ate lunch too. We walked around a bit in a park and found some fun exercise gadgets and had a good time entertaining ourselves. After he beach we came home for siesta. We took showers, did laundry, Ashley packed and we got ready to go to another party.

We went and joined up with about 5-6 dioceses and prayed evening vespers in this huge concrete courtyard. Each country had a ten minute show to put on so we saw Flamenco from Spain and some guitar dudes, Argentina did a bunch of classic partner country dances and tango. When they played the flamenco music many of us got up to dance along with some friendly Spanish ladies. We had dinner (classic Spanish food - salad, gazpacho, tortilla and empanada with bread) and then Texas had to represent. We have a talented young pilgrim who led us in a hip hop for the Blessed Virgin Mary. We got the crowd really going! I heard the video is up in the archdiocese of SA's site. We also did Copperhead Row to get everyone to line dance with us country style. (most know it is not my favorite line dance by far, but it was neat to have our culture out here and enjoyed by others.

It was neat to hang out more with our entire SA group for once since they had split us up. We realized that our last night in Malaga was well spent in prayer and fellowship.

Tomorrow we travel to Madrid. It is beginning soon.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

The Malaga Feria (Fair)

Every August in Malaga, they have a huge fair/Carnival. After our huge assembly last night we went to the much anticipated fair. Apparently, the fair gathers over a million people, including tourists in one week. The fair itself was essentially a huge carnival complete with two ferris wheels, tons of juegos mechanicos or rides, ice cream, churros, other food, stuff for the kids and classic games where people pay money to fail at some ridiculous tossing game to try win a cheap prize. The fair also had streets with small casitas with live music and people dancing and eating with families. There were also shops selling dresses, toys and other things. it was super crowded and we had to split up our huge group and Ashley and I went exploring.

The fun thing about the fair is the culture behind it. Like Octoberfest or Wurstfest, many people, especially children dressed up in traditional Spanish Flamenco clothes. Little boys are running around like mini-matadors and the girls have long earrings, ruffled dresses of all colors and tacones (heels). The fair can be too much of a party however and many people drink all day and all night. Also, you can't help but notice a large number of women dressed up like they are going to a club. Teto (host dad) said people hook up often during the vacation month of August. It was a bit sad to witness such desperateness.

We braved the crowed and walked around to see all of the rides. You would not believe the lack of security on some of these rides! Some kids would be standing up on a spinning ride wiu no seatbelts! One rocking pirate ships had two cages with kids just throw in, and countless others were just nauseating to look at! Ashley and I went for the more fame yet always impressive ferris wheel to see the whole fair and take pictures. We sat with some friendly malagenos.

We walked around and saw all of us pretty lights around until we got picked up at 1:30am, after sharing a chocolate dipped, cream filled churro!

fbt&<3

Sabrina

The Catholic Olympics

It's Saturday night, and for the first time we get to gather with all of the peregrinos (pilgrims) from all of the Days in the Diocese participants. We met up with our group and went to his huge concrete outdoor auditorium. We sat up near the top and the entire place was full of people literally from all over the world. We were waving flags, singing and chanting "USA". We met people from Amarillo, TX who sang Deep in the Heart of Texas and other English chants with us.

We had a normal sack dinner of a tuna bocadillo, a ham and cheese one, yogurt, water and a coke. We ran around a bit and met some Canadians and danced around with a conga line. There were groups from Argentina, Italy, Iraq, South Africa, Congo, Australia, France, Chile, Venezuelans, and more! We had about 6,000 people there! There was a mass like service with the Bishop of Malaga and countless other bishops and priests in 4-5 languages. Then a group from each continent sang a song. Canada represented Americas and sang a Matt Maher song (Our Father!) and Congo got us all on our feet with their rhythmic African Beats. Italy and Australia represented Europe and 'Oceana' respectively and Iraq did Asia. It was amazing to be shouting and dancing with people from all over the world, flags of every color, snapping pictures and asking questions. Everyone was so happy to be friends and we had a great time.

I have never been with so many people from literally all over the world before. And to think, this is probably only 2% of what Madrid is going to be like! It makes me excited. To know that there are this many young Catholics that are on fire for God is awe-inspiring. It just bewilders me that we all have this important thing in common, and that it unites us worldwide, no matter what language and culture boundaries may arise. Our host mother, Estelle, was sharing how she feels that we should be helping the poor and hungry. Even if you don't know that person in Africa, you should help them because they are a person too. It's amazing to reflect on that and remember our callings as Catholics.

Amazing.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

The Feast of the Midday meal

As you might know, the main meal in Spain is lunch which begins around 2 pm. Luckily, we got to come home today after a tour of other parishes to eat with our host family.

We got picked up by another Antonio (he jokingly called himself the taxi driver) and went back to meet Rosario and her baby daughter, Maria. We had nothing short of a small feast. We poured tall cool glasses of Tinto de Verano, and started off with salad, bread, cheeses and my love, gazpacho. After that we had some paella, Spanish tortilla, veggie quiche and empanada de Galicia. Spanish tortilla is usually eggs and potato and baked like a quiche. He empanada was a pastry filled win tomato sauce, tuna and other spices. Woo! Then Estelle fried up some chicken patties that were flavored with herbs, some sausages, and her favorite, morcillo -- blood sausage. We also tried little round pasties filled with something similar to coleslaw. Somehow we managed to finish the meal with a serving of watermelon and dewmelon. We were stuffed and enjoyed a nice siesta after that escapade! I know with all the waking we do we must burn it off.

Are you hungry now?

fbt&<3

Sabrina

I would walk 500 miles...

It's 11:30 pm and the night is young. We are sitting at a very fancy park by the water waiting to watch the midnight firework show that celebrates the beginning of the Malaga Fair. We are very tired from our first full day in Spain. He pedometer reads almost 9 miles today. I guess it's pretty accurate.

After lunch at at small park we went on a number of tours all around town. First we went to the Malaga Cathedral. It was huge! So breathtaking. I heard that we get 3 special graces for visiting a new church, so I was happy to pray for 3 intentions. We then took a loooong walk to the Alcala, and old Moorish fort/castle. It was a great place to see the entire city and take great pictures. We then went to see Picasso's home where he was born! It was small and we saw some o this work and childhood photos. We spent some free time walking around Malaga and had some vino tinto de verano (red wine with Sprite or Fanta). We gathered up, and sang our way to this huge park by the pier. Ashley and a new friend, Elizabeth and I had tla wild goose chase to find a bathroom. 25 minutes and over a mile later, we found relief in an overcrowded McDonald's. Now we wait for the fireworks.

My reflections lately have been as follows:

Trusting God can be tough. Right now, we don't have copies of the schedule, and we don't really know what to expect or what we're doing. It can be really frustrating! However, I do know that I will be fed (very well), I have plenty to do, and that I'm taken care of. I have no work, few chores and little to worry about. I just get to enjoy life and hang on for the ride. If only I can master this! Since God has it all in control, I have nothing to worry about. I hope to be able to figure out how to master this worry-free lifestyle and bring it back to apply it to my life. It doesn't take much to realize that his stress and worry-free life is much better when we give God the reins and let Him take charge.

I also have witnessed tons of hospitality with my host family. They are so kind, generous and welcoming. I am glad to be getting to know them. They met when they were 15 at a church group in Malaga and were friends for years before they got together. It is super cute to see them together, and while they said there was no initial spark, they are obviously that much in love. It just reminds me how much love and trust is in the world. You just have to look. They are so kind and accommodating. I know that their children are witnessing their service and will learn a lot from them. It's a really neat situation.

It's almost firework time! Tomorrow we get to go to the fair, and Sunday we get to go to the beach! It's going to be amazing!!! I would like to say that I miss home, but I'm enjoying it so much over here. I miss the people though. Thinking of you!

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Austin Texas Girls Road Show

Good morning and afternoon from Malaga. We are beginning the day with mass at Santa Ana and doing some icebreaker activities with pilgrims from Malaga, Argentina, and a handful from Ecuador. Each place introduced themselves and shared a video and some information about their groups. We didn't have anything prepared, so we sang Deep in the Heart of Texas, Lord I Lift Your Name On High and Every Move I Make. Everyone got such a kick out of our cowboy hats! We got assaulted by paparazzi. I think 30 people took our pictures with the Texas flag, plus many people wanted pictures with us or with our hats. We were glad we decided to bring them his morning!

We slept very well last night and tried to nurse our extremely swollen ankles. (cankles) Breakfast was superb. Bread with butter and jelly, or olive oil and more jamon Serrano. We also tried this pork fat spread, which reminded me of chorizo grease. (fatty and so good) I had espresso with milk and learned that in Malaga they have different names for various amounts of milk to espresso. In other parts of Spain you just get cafe con leche. In Malaga, you can specify and the barista will know!

Back to now, we are listening to music by a group of Malagenos. It's great to such culture. We saw a classic north Argentinean dance, and clapped along. We are hoping to show off our two-stepping and line dancing later.

So hungry for lunch! Our host momma set us up with lunch and dinner to go in our knapsacks. Lunch is salad and friend chicken pieces, fruit and crackers. Dinner is a number of things including 2 bocadillos (sandwiches), yogurt, cookies, and other snacks. It's a small feast.

We're going to the center of the city today to see the sights, and more of the area. At nigth we'll see the huge firework show for the kickoff of the fair at midnight. They love to stay up late!

Until next time,

fbt&<3

Sabrina

A dip in the Mediterranean

Hello from Malaga, Spain! We finished off our grueling travel schedule with a 6 hour bus ride from Madrid to Malaga. We stopped halfway at this cafeteria place to eat lunch. I paid ten euro for their meal deal which was a salad, (typical spanish mix of iceberg lettuce, tuna, boiled egg, tomato, corn and carrots) fish with mixed veggies and rice pudding. I'm not eating a lot of bread here...

When we got to Malaga around 7 pm we were matched up with our host families over chips, soda and beer. Ashley and I went him with Estelle and her precious 3 boys, Angel, Lucas and Guillermo. Angel is 9 and likes basketball, geography and cheese pizza. Lucas is feeling sick so he's pretty quiet. Guillermo is just adorable with his baby blue framed glasses. He reminds me of Ralphie. Their home is small but super cute. We felt so welcomed! They have our blow up beds in this laundry room with huge windows and a cool breeze. It's beautiful.

We went to mass at 9 pm with the other half of the group and then came back to have a breathtaking dinner on their outdoor terrace with Teto, her husband. We had vino tinto de verano (red wine and lime or fruit soda) along with fresh Manchego like cheeses (local), jamon serrano, chorizo and other dry hams, salad with eggs, cheese and nuts, bread, and tomatoes and onions with balsamic vinegar and olive oil and guacamole. Dessert was insisted, and we had Greek yogurt with chocolate chips and walnut ice cream. After that we took a late walk at midnight with Estelle and Angel to the beach and we dipped into the Mediterranean sea! What a first day.

I think the most impressive thing is the hospitality we have felt from he beginning. Also, we have a lot of trust to just ge into a car of a stranger and go stay with them. It's a big step to take to just keep the faith and see the Good in people. Big day tomorrow!

God is so good to us!

fbt&<3

Sabrina

A Texan in Madrid

We made it! We landed around 8:00 am after a nice long slightly sleepless flight. Ashley and I got a few hours in here and there between being woken up by being uncomfortable. Our breakfast was yummy. Little ham and cheese croissants, pineapple juice, a little muffin, a tropical fruit cup and coffee. We wanted to take the Iberia blanket, but we weren't supposed to.

Already in the airport we've seen groups from Venezuela and Monterrey, Mexico. The Mexicans had green shirts, full size sombreros and a huge flag. It's interesting to reflect on how every place is going to have it's identity. As Texans, (note, not really Americans) we are hamming up the howdy, our cowboy hats and our Texas flags. I think to some extent all of the people here are going to be more proud of their country (or state) than they ever have been at home. I've always been proud to be a Texan, but it's going to be taken to a new level here when that's the first thing people want to know about you. It's probably going to be more of my identity than I realized. Manners, greetings, warmth, gratitude and hospitality make Texas proud, so I hope I can exhibit these qualities here and help others realize we are more than cowboys and breakfast tacos.

fbt&<3

Sabrina

Leaving on a Jet Plane

Here we are on the big 'ol plane to Spain! There are 8 people in each row and what seems like 50 rows. A friend traded with me so I could sit with Ashley. I found out right before we boarded that my Mom's surgery went swimmingly. Praise God! It was the perfect news before I turned off my phone. We also met a group of Texans from Victoria and observed a loud pack of Puerto Ricans sing some culture chant in the airport. "This doesn't sound like Jesus music," Ashley said. They are all on the plane with us. There are at least 8 priests on the plane, so we felt safe.

We took off close to an hour late. I dozed while we waited, woke up for take off and then dozed again before the food came.

We both picked "beef" and got a delicious meal! Cold mixed veggies with tuna, stew meat cooked in a Marsala sauce with mushrooms, peas, carrots and potatoes, and bread, butter and a hunk of cheese. We devoured it. Ashley doesn't even like tomatoes or mushrooms, but happily ate them. She said it's true when your parents say, "if you're hungry, you'll eat anything."

Dessert was a yummy square of cherry cheesecake with coffee. (Ashley had tea.) So full! Now it's bed time. While it's 6:45 pm in Austin, it's past our bedtime in Spain -- 1:41 am.
Goodnight! See you in Spain.

fbt&<3
Sabrina

A gentle rain

Hello from Miami!

We were able to use our layover time to have a tour of Miami, mass at St. Michael the Archangel parish, and had lunch. When we got on the bus they had little gift bags for us with a cookie and a little Cuban ham sandwich. It was amazing and evident that God provides and loves us. He tour of Miami was nice. We saw the rich rich areas like Fischer Island and the poor areas like Little Haiti and other Latin neighborhoods. We even saw Versace's mansion where he was shot! We got to the church and Ashley and I had enough time to pray a rosary for our special intentions. The Holy Spirit was with us in the grotto. As we began he Glorious Mysteries, a cool breeze was blowing on us and swirling around the tree needles. The garden around Mary was lovely and the fountain was bubbling holy water. The breeze picked up as we prayed and it began to rain. At first they were little drops -- quite refreshing. It's been so long since we've seen, heard, smelled and felt rain. It was peaceful and lovely. It started to rain harder and by the fufu mystery, it was steady. I could tell that Ashley didn't want to stop either and we finished the rosary in the glorious rain. It was just amazing. We stood in the back of mass since we were all wet. Just a little taste of the glory of Our Lord. It was a special moment.

We are going back to MIA for our flight soon. We'll be on our way to Madrid tonight, and once we arrive Thursday morning, we get on yet another bus to Malaga. Longest travel of my life! We are going on 2-3 hours of plane sleep since I got up on Tuesday morning.

Prayers ascending for you all.

Sent from my awesome ipod

On the road...

Well, the trip has began. I am writing this from the floor of the Houston airport at 3:30am. Ashley and I are making Texas bracelets while we wait for our time to check in. We left San Antonio around 10pm and got to Houston at 2am after a pit stop at Buckee's. (I got coffee) We found out that whilst in Miami we are going to be picked up and taken on a small tour of the city, attend a noon mass and have lunch at a neighboring Diocese where a friend of one of our priest companions (maybe Bishop Cantu?) lives. Much better than a boring old 7 hour layover!

They are playing the Black Eyed Peas... I gotta feeling... That this trip's gonna be the best trip...

So far Ashley and I have been catching up in life on the bus. It's neat to already see how parallel our lives are right now, even with different lives. I'm looking forward to see how God is going to use this trip to get us closer to Him and to each other.

I've been up for almost 20 hours now and fading fast. Must stay awake... See y'all in Miami!

Sabrina
fbt&<3

We Are More

TODAY!

Hooray! Today Today Today!

I realized my entry last night was a bunch of random thoughts. Before I apologize to a WYSIWYG, I have to mention that if you know me at all, you'll know that I'm a bit random in nature. I'm going a million miles an hour and in a million directions.

Yesterday and today I feel like a wrapped up a lot of things. I got things set up for the 20-Somethings (emails, who's helping me out when I'm gone, etc.) and gave people a million and one hugs last night at Adoration. Anna visted me this morning at 6:30 AM and brought me tacos! I was sleepy and surprised. It was good to see her before she begins her next book in life. I cried over some Rudy's tacos with her and went back to bed for a little while longer.

After running some last minute errands, I went to crank out work at the office and set up everything to function while I'm gone. I put up my away message for the work email and sent all of my almost finished projects to awesome people who can see them through. After lots of hugs and a hectic last-minute-everything, I ran out the door to do a couple of additional last minute errands and to come home to repack and clean as much as I can. Don't you like to come home to a clean apartment?

Step by step, day by day the stresses get lifted. I trust that everything is being left in good hands. I know I'm going to be missed and I likewise will be missing a lot of people! There are some people that I see and talk to everyday that will be on my mind a lot. I laugh sometimes to myself because I feel like I'm being so dramatic, but leaving a lot of things that you're responsible for for 2.5 weeks without much communication is a big deal to me. I skipped out of the office light as a feather and full of hope and joy.

Life is full of little things that make you smile. I feel loved by God so much! I joke that Jesus is taking me on a getaway vacation. (Isn't He the best?) And I know that he loves me through all of my friends and family -- and I hope they feel His love from me too. It's neat to feel so connected to everyone through this great Mystery of life. It's just a peaceful feeling.

It's hard to let go of worries, but if you can, it's amazing. It's honestly like flying. Maybe that's why we like driving fast, roller coasters and water park slides. We almost lose control for a bit and just think about the fun ride we're on. We don't dwell on the "what ifs" and just go for it. We still take precautions and stay on track. But when God is driving, you know you're going somewhere good, so you should sit back and relax.

It begins in 45 minutes.

fbt&<3

Tomorrow...or Today

Yup. I leave tomorrow. I can't believe it's finally here.

It's 1:30 AM in Austin, Texas and I just now am done with packing. I still have to toss a few things in and out tomorrow, but I think I have most of it done. I always think I'm packing light until I throw everything into the bag. Oh well. It'll work out.

I got a watch to wear and I set it to go back and forth between Spain time and Texas time. It's 8:35 now in Spain. They are probably getting up and preparing for the day. I hope the jetlag isn't too bad. I know when I get there I am going to be super pumped.

We found out a couple of last minute things this past week. First off, I'm happy to announce that we get to stay in host families in Malaga! I'm looking forward to meeting some people who are kind enough to welcome us into their homes.

Second, my friend and coworker in Dallas, McKenna is going too! We're going to hand out cards about Heroic Media to people we meet in hopes they can spread the good news of our work with others. She struck gold and will get to be on stage for the closing mass...with...the...POPE. I can't wait to hear about her trip when we get back.

On August 17th, Wednesday, Ashley and I will be attending the World Youth Day Pro-Life conference! I'm stoked. There will be speakers, events, concerts and more. I'm really looking forward to seeing the Prolife movement from the other parts of the world. I believe this event is actually put on by the Irish. Sounds great to me! :)

Tomorrow I leave for San Antonio at 7 PM. We get on a bus to Houston and head out at 9:45 PM. We'll get to the Houston airport around 1 AM and check in for our international flight. We head to Miami at 6 AM and endure a 7 hour layover before we flight out at 5:00 PM, Miami Time. We'll get to Madrid at what is their 7:30 AM and then head south to Malaga. What a trip. I wonder how much sleep I am going to get!

This past weekend we had a retreat with the Catholic 20-Somethings Ministry that I am a part of. We got to dig deep into the Lord's Prayer, the Our Father. It was such a good time with good friends and really relaxed me. I had an anxious 2 weeks before this trip and I think I'm finally calming down from being stressed to getting really excited about the trip. I don't mean to be dramatic, but I feel that this trip is going to really change my life. I'm not sure how, but I know it's going to be good.

fbt&<3

One week and counting

That's right. I've been counting down for over a year and it's finally down to one week left. I guess technically by now in one week my trip will have begun, and we will be pulling into Houston Inter Continental Airport to prepare for a flight to Miami...

One week. I will do my best not to be dramatic, but I truly feel like God wants me to really earn this escape. Not a vacation, and not a break, but more of an escape. I will be traveling nonstop, sleeping on a floor somewhere, eating whatever I am fed and walking a lot in the sun. Sounds incredible, right? Pretty much like my time in Drum Corps -- everything is taken care of, so just focus on the main idea.

My main idea is going to be living out each day for God, His plan and His purpose. Shouldn't we be living like that now? Oh yes, but with our crazed maxed out and stressful lives, it's hard to focus on what God is telling us.

The reasons that I am calling my pilgrimage an escape is based on the list of major responsibilities that I have to focus on in this last week. In no particular order: we are transitioning our entire website and all social networks over this week and Monday, we are leading a retreat for fellow young adult Catholics all weekend, I have 2 freelance graphic design jobs with Monday deadlines, and some family health issues. I have no free evenings left between the retreat and ministry commitments and I can't seem to sleep at night. Whew! All of these things are good (except for the sleeping part) and I am luckily not spiritually stressed. I might be in denial, but he symptoms show that my body is stressed! Because of all of this, I am looking forward to my escape, and the accompanying challenge of returning with God as the center of my universe and keeping Him there as I adjust back to my work overflowing with responsibilities. I think it will be hard, but nothing is impossible with God.

I have an extra massage scheduled already.

Sabrina
fbt&<3