Six

This year, our anniversary trip was planned by Garrick. We hauled all of our camping gear with us to Scotland and had yet to use it, so he decided to try 'wild' camping as it's called in the UK (camping where there is no official site). We love the Fife Coastal Path and thought it would be the best place to go. Garrick did all the preparing and packing and just helped me get my pack on when it was time to leave.

It was in the low twenties when we left our flat. The East Sands looked more like a beach in Barcelona. We headed up the path and stopped at the first beach we came upon as it was the perfect place to pitch our tent. We exercised good communication skills learned over six years of marriage, and successfully set up our campsite. Then, the clouds and on-and-off rain rolled in. Still, we had a blast.

For dinner, Garrick prepared rolls with meat and cheese and wrapped them in foil to heat over the fire. We read, searched for sea glass, took in the stunning views, drank nice wine, and enjoyed good conversation. Every so often, we'd hide out in our tent and play cribbage while we waited for a rain shower to pass. 

We fell asleep after we heard the church bells chime 10pm. We woke several times in the night because of waves crashing, rain hitting the tent, and wind. At about 5am, we packed up and headed home to our bed. After we woke up, Garrick went out and brought back vanilla lattes from Taste, which we enjoyed with croissants. Good man. Despite the rough nights sleep, we'd go again in a heartbeat!

When we got married at twenty, we both were aware of how young we were. So, we decided to grow up together. And I think we've done a good job of that. Garrick is a supportive and loving husband who can meet me in my greatest joys and sorrows. I am so proud of his hard work and pursuit of his passions. He also possesses the ability to make me laugh, always. Here's to many more adventurous years together, Mr Allen! You are my home.

Barcelona {2/2}

Even though the locals wear scarves and boots in 70 degree weather, we contentedly wore t-shirts for optimal vitamin D absorption. (Garrick tans, I freckle.) We walked most places, but when our feet couldn't take another step, a metro stop was always nearby. Parks and plazas are around every corner, and so we took many impromptu breaks during the day. Often we'd find ourselves in line for gelato or a pastry. By the end of our time in Barcelona, we concluded it was a smaller, more casual version of Paris. Here is the rest of our time spent in the city:

Montjuic:

This hill is home to the Olympic Village, the National Museum of Catalan Art, the Magic Fountain, and also many beautiful parks and gardens. We spent time taking in the views of the city, enjoyed the art museum, and also joined the crowds for the weekly Magic Fountain show.  

Park Guell:

This park, designed by Gaudi in the early 1900's, is situated on El Carmel. It was actually home to Gaudi and his family for a short period of time. We arrived early in the day and waited in the long line for our tickets. When it's sunny and warm, lines don't matter. We hiked, watched pigeons fight over a baguette, and managed to find a spot to sit on the famous curved bench overlooking the city. Again, we were in awe of Gaudi's imagination. 

Gothic Quarter:

This is the old city of Barcelona. The streets are made for wanderers. Some highlights are the Cathedral and Placa Reial. The buildings are very close together and filled with black iron balconies, plants, and laundry. We also stumbled upon a few markets. 

La Pedrera:

This modernist building was Gaudi's last work and built for a wealthy married couple. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage sight in 1984. Unfortunately, the outside was under construction during our visit, so we were only able to see the inside and the rooftop. Still amazing!

La Barceloneta:

This is the area near the beach. Christopher Columbus point to the New World and palm trees line the streets. We walked along the beach were surprised to find sea glass!

That's all from Barcelona - next stops, Montserrat and Girona!