I can’t even begin to express how difficult it’s been for me to live without certain things while being here in Spain….cell phone, internet, fast food…yes, it’s hard. I thought I really was going to have a nervous breakdown when I had to go without texting and emailing….but that was last month.

This month, I’ve come to realize, you don’t need those things to keep you entertained or to keep you happy. Material things will come and go in life…they are not permanent. But enjoying what you have and appreciating what you’re given…that’s most important. Believe me, I don’t miss anything on Facebook and it’s definitely a safety factor that I no longer text and walk at the same time (you could get swiped here in the streets of Madrid lol).

I have a newfound appreciation for walking down the street and taking in all the sights, all the views, all the people, and all that’s going on around me. I enjoy going home and sharing a conversation with my Spanish family about my day, not running to my computer to check for the latest Facebook update.

Partaking in this experience is definitely what you make. Complaining, moping, and whining definitely leads to a deadend. I refuse to spend my time here like that! I’ve learned you really can live…even without it all.