My Easter weekend was quiet. And with extra days off from school and choir, it was restful and “tranquiló.”

I did a progress test for my Spanish proficiency to update my Student Visa. They want me to demonstrate that I am in fact attending classes and am a serious student. So I sent that to my attorney for processing. To be honest, it didn’t show much progress. But I’m not being deterred. I’m actually starting to notice a growing confidence, small though it is.

One of the things I’ve done for several years is occasionally host “Couchsurfers.” Couchsurfers.com matches travelers looking for a free place to stay with hosts who welcome them. There’s a process for being verified and reviews are very important. When I was in Denver, it gave me opportunity to meet people from around the US and from around the world.

Now that I’m settled in my apartment, last weekend I updated my profile to invite travelers. I immediately heard from a young man from Belarus and his traveling companion, a young lady from Japan. Both have very good reviews. So they stayed with me Tuesday night. Kirill is a wonderful conversationalist. Nomi was much more quiet. He’s curious and polite and having finished college is using his time traveling and exploring with no definite plans. I applaud his courage.

After they left on Wednesday, it occurred to me that while I love having company and meeting new people, the experience didn’t have as much value for me as it would have in Denver. Everyday, I’m in class with people from Russia, Japan, Germany, Italy, Malaysia and Hungary…and of course many other countries. I decided I’ll keep my profile active. But I will be very selective about who I welcome. If their profile shows more life experience, more to broaden my curiosity, and of course lots of wonderful references, I may welcome them. Else, my guest room is open for you. Just let me know when you’re coming. So far, I have one confirmed guest coming in August and “intentions” expressed from several others.

Friday night, I met my friends Martin, and Rafa for drinks and dinner.

My friend David arrived later. I met David a month or so ago when he was here in Valencia. David is from the UK and lives in Altea, a couple hours from Valencia. So he stayed in my guest room for the weekend.

On Saturday, David and went to Port Saplaya, a small man-made town just outside of Valencia. It’s a little like Venice Italy, with canals and boat docks.

Saturday afternoon, I had my MRI scheduled. So I had pictures taken of my ankle. It’s slowly getting better…very slowly. A follow up x-ray is scheduled for Tuesday evening.

Saturday night, David and I went to a gay bar for drinks and then to a Morrocan restaurant for dinner.

On Sunday I met Daniel for lunch. It was a more expensive restaurant but really delicious.

Afterwards, we went for a drink. And Ivan joined us.

Monday is another holiday in Valencia. It’s another feast day. This time, for St Vincent Ferrer.

It’s supposed to be warm today. And with no classes, I’m going to the beach.

Have a great week.