14 June 2026

Just a short update this week.

The big news is that I finally got some clarity from my attorney.

Here’s what he tells me:

My application has been submitted, for Arriego Social, basically Rootedness Residency (based on having lived here for more than two years). It’s similar to the non-lucrative visa that I had been pursuing.

My student status has been cancelled.

I cannot leave the country while the application is being processed. Currently, the process is taking four to five months.

During the application process, I can move freely within Spain, and my status is “applicant” (not legal – not illegal).

So, I’ll plan some travel around Spain and enjoy the many sights. Watch for updates here!

My friend Francesco returned home to Venice, Italy today. It was fun having him here. Four weeks was a lot, even with his great cooking! And I’ll miss having him around.

On a cultural note, last night was an evening of such beauty that I was moved to tears.

We went to a choir concert. We met with some friends (other further members of my old choir) beforehand, including one of the singers. I learned that the members of this choir get the music about two to three weeks before a concert and have to learn it before they rehearse and then perform it. This is another level of musicianship.

Friends in Denver know the beauty that is created by St Martin’s Chamber Choir. I served on their board some years ago. Several singers are friends of mine. SMCC is Colorado’s only professional choir. Each singer is a trained musician and their work shows a level of musicality and beauty that is transcendent.

Last night, we attended a concert by two choirs. One, Incantus, was very good. The other was Amalthea Chamber Choir. Twenty people, dressed in black, each one a soloist in his or her own right. When they sang, I could “see” SMCC. When they moved around the church to circle the audience, we literally could hear both the individual voices and the collective whole. The blend of voices, the clarity, the dynamics of controlled and trained singers provided a moment of such incredible excellence that I had to wipe tears from my eyes.

From the first work to the last, I was spellbound.

I often say that the main thing I miss by living here is my friends and loved ones. Last night, I was reminded that I also miss some incredibly talented musical experiences. And the reminder was like getting a surprise visit from one of my favorite music groups. Thank you Amalthea. And to my friends at SMCC, you are missed and you are loved.

Have a great week and please know how much I appreciate you reading this blog and staying in touch.