First trip without kids, Canary Islands

Our friend Vivienne invited us to run a race with her in January, so why not.  But, we decided to leave our kids at home with an amazing lady, Heather.  We really can't thank her enough, it was a much needed break for both of us.  We did go to run a half marathon, which we did, but not very well.  We were also able to meet a friend of a friend, that is now a friend!  Tina and Rafa were amazing and so welcoming to us.  Rafa is Spanish, and Tina is American, living there with their 4 kids!  The fed us, made sure we had plenty of water, let us borrow their scooter, and cheered us on along the race!  We enjoyed exploring the island on our own and with an amazing guide, Tina.  Thanks for everything!

Madrid with Nina, Poppop and Aunt Sheila

So after New Years, we headed up to Madrid on the train for a few days.  The train was exciting for the kids, we even go to sit in first class!   I think the kids favorite part of the time there was the street performers of all kinds.  But they really loved the bubble blowing ones!  Our apartment was right off one of the main plazas, the Puerto de Sol.  It is a very busy plaza, with lots of entertainment, including lots of cartoon characters!  It was also very loud, all night long...thankful for ear plugs!  We visited the Palace and the huge Retiro Park!  It was a very nice little getaway.

Beautiful Plaza de Mayor

Puerto de Sol, from our apartment window!

Kids being silly!

San Miguel Mercado

Kind of creepy, all the characters withtheir heads off, especially for someone who has worked at Disney!

0km mark, center of Spain