June 17th, I received the notification and paperwork stating that I will be teaching in the city of Barbera del Valles, a city that's about 10.5 miles from the center of Barcelona [, the city]. I am ecstatic and I will definitely be taking this job. Everyone in my life is pretty much on board with this decision except for a few family members who fear that I may end up in a compromised position because of Spain's financial situation.

I understand the risks of picking up and moving to a country which is on the verge of bankruptcy. I also understand that I'm never going to be in this position again - no strings, only having myself to take care of - so it would be foolish to pass up this opportunity. I'm young and either way, I see this as an opportunity to learn and to grow. One of my favorite quotes, by Gustave Flaubert, says this, "Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world". I need to travel so that I can become a more humble person. I need to travel so that I can be better at loving people and identifying with people. I need to travel so that I can find my purpose in this life and share it with others. I am content, don't get me wrong. I will always be in this state of contentment, no matter the weather. Experience is what I crave, however, and this is what I want.

I called a friend in Barcelona and he's already sending me links to look for apartments and shared housing; we've calculated that I can live in the city and take a 20 minute bus/train to work. Now it's time to budget. I'm considering a second job until September since I will only be accruing 700 euros / month.

Take a look at the school in which I'll be working: http://www.xtec.cat/centres/a8028229/

I'm in love with these kids already.