Today was my last day of travelling alone. I’m delighted that Martha and two of our friends will be joining me tomorrow, but I have mixed feelings about having to look and smell acceptable for eight consecutive days. I prepared for the occasion by taking a shower, which I hope they notice and appreciate.
I swung by the big Barcelona market, the Boqueria, to pick up some supplies for the chicas. As a place that is not for the squeamish, I thought I’d spare our vegetarian, animal-loving friends who are visiting here for the first time from having to witness the carnage that is Spanish food.
Depending on who you are, this could look like dinner or the makings of nightmares.
This one, pretty much just nightmares.
Sometimes a nice, fresh ham cone just calls out to you. Myself, I just had a cup of cut-up fresh fruit.
We’re going to spend a few days here together and then leave for the Mediterranean coast, but we’ll be back in time for the biggest night of the Mercé, Barcelona’s annual festival celebrating music, performing arts and bad judgment, including the Carrefoc, where people gather at one of Barcelona’s main avenues to get sprayed with huge spark shooters held (actually “aimed”) by people dressed up as devils. As the program says, “make sure to bring long-sleeved clothing, head protection and goggles or glasses. Make sure your clothing is made with a non-flammable material. Sparkers are often deliberately sprayed into the crowd and you will need this protection to prevent any possible burns.” Quoting from the first entry on the FAQ page for the Carrefoc, “Q: It looks an exciting event but is it safe to have fireworks sprayed into the crowds of spectators? A: You have raised a good point. . . “
And that’s only the beginning. I can’t wait.
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