We are family

"We're a family." Those are the words my Senora kept repeating to my parents when they came over for the first time. "We're all a big family."

It's pretty amazing how God brings people from all over the world together and makes them one family in His name. How blessed we are to be part of such a big family. And I am extremely blessed to be part of a big family here as well. It was so fun to get to introduce my new family here to my parents. We had a great night where they spoiled us with lots of delicious Spanish food. We sat around the big table and ate and talked and laughed for hours. It was, however, a bit difficult at times considering I was the only person in a group of ten that could speak Spanish and English. Lets just say I got lots of practice translating that night.

 My two moms meeting for the first time. I am so spoiled to have both of these amazing women in my life.

Everyone (minus me) all together and ready to eat lots of tapas.

Besides meeting my family, my parents also got to meet some of my friends from the program. We had a great time sharing stories and of course...eating more tapas.

After meeting my friends and family here, we spent the rest of the time exploring Sevilla. I wanted to show my parents some of my favorite parts of the city. I took them to the Cathedral, the "setas", the bull fighting arena,  the Alcazar, Plaza de Espana, along the river, and a few other places in between. We had a busy few days, but it was so nice to finally show my parents where I have been living the last month and a half.

 My mom and I in the Alcazar. It's a big palace in Sevilla and it has tons of beautiful gardens and historic buildings.

 In the bull fighting arena. I think it was probably best we went when there wasn't a fight going on. :)

 On top of the "setas." We went at sunset so we could see the city during the day and night. It was a beautiful view.

My dad and I enjoying some crepes and frozen yogurt. I obviously had to show them the best places in Sevilla to eat dessert. :)

Family. I am so blessed for my family, my new family here, the amazing family I get to marry into in a few short months, the many friends who have become more like family over the years, and the huge family of believers. I would not be enjoying this semester nearly as much without all of you. Thank you for your love, support, and prayers.

Love,

jana

P.S. After sharing Sevilla with my parents, we headed off to Rome for the weekend. I'll post more on that soon!