This was taken when we first got to the city. I was just so happy to be in sunshine.
Sangria and trashy magazine- classy pre-dinner combo.
Before Spain, I had a girls night. Unfortunately, I won't see my dear Hannah (at left) til September. Realizing that turned that giant grin into a sad sad frown.
Before the bar there was a clothing swap at my flat.
And before the swap, there was pancake making... and it was good.

Munching on mango in Parc Guell- a giant rambling park in the North of the city.
Andrew in front of some cheery wall art.
I just liked the way this looked- neat lighting.
Oooh such exciting foods at the big market- twinned with Borough Market in London! We generally got lunch stuff here for picnics.

Gaudis famous masterpiece... it does look pretty cool (we also saw his first architectural exploit- lamposts in a square).

Looking into one of my favourite squares
The oldest church in Barcelona- nicely off the tourist track.
Of course we had to hit up the beach- the topless beach.
From bed, to balcony...

Andrew relaxing in the garden at breakfast- Fruit and Fibre and yummy soy milk from a local shop served us well.

Back from the continent!

We just got back from a quick getaway to Barcelona- a getaway in celebration that our marriage is almost officially one year old! The weather was amazing- 32 degrees-ish and NOT A CLOUD IN THE SKY for 3 days (maybe this is more exciting for someone living in England- but I was amazed). Our hostel was so perfect for us- outside of the city in a really authentically Catalan neighbourhood (no tourists, apart from the handful at the hostel- and lots of local kids playing on the streets)- the quietest hostel I've ever stayed in- seriously woke up to sounds of birds.. and only birds. And there was a garden and our own big balcony... it just was the ideal setting. Barcelona as a city was lovely. I loved the many little gothic streets for pedestrians only, the little boutiques, the numerous courtyards that we would just stumble upon that were usually full of public art or old fountains, and some damn fine vegan food as well.
Now I have a week left in dear ol' Exeter til I cross the Atlantic for a summer in my old hood of London Ontario... and lots of visiting Toronto as well of course! Hillside! Woot woot!
Now, time to post Barcelona photos to make everyone jealous--- mostly people who live here under the present drizzle and chill.
xxxx

Woe is me, I forget how to rotate pictures. Sorry for any neck-strain caused!

Loving the butterscotch brownies and peanut butter apple bars- ready to blow some bake sale minds.
The bake sale inspired us to make our own cake just for kicks- lime coconut goodness with dried papaya.
Andrew's very minty cupcakes- which vow to take over the world.
Tom and Chris- Green soc. presidents- lean green baking machines
Lime and coconut- a tangy combo with mojitos (and this picture also showcases my subtle cake glaze and sprinkles which is actually the reason I'm posting it).

Dartmoor hiking- why its great to go to uni. in the country!

There aren't enough shots of the two of us in our collection so... us. On the bus home.
What a view, what an apple...
Emma and Steph- lovely photography, Tom.
Tom gives his choice of route thumbs up.

Some serious Pooh Sticks action