What is joy?

There are many reasons to be cynical in this world. Receiving a costume from your favorite movie and tv show is not one of them. See for yourself. 

But for those of who believe the world to be full of fakers, frauds, cheats, and con artists, it’s hard to refute. But then again, I’m sure these gentlemen are only selling the finest crafted, authentic luxury goods.

La Mallorquina. If it is not the best bakery in the Puerto del Sol district, then slap me silly and call me Cletus. 

I mean, any place that ties up their legendary chocolate croissants with wrapping paper and twine must know they can back up any pretensions. 

Today, 29-August, is Nora’s birthday. Interesting tradition Spain has. The birthday person treats their celebration guests. Uh, yeah. Nora invited us to a really nice seafood restaurant, La Maruca. 

Of course, we went. Wouldn’t want to disappoint anyone on their birthday, would we?

It was either that or this really obscure Latin American establishment. 

Random Tip: do not let the buskers see you take a photo of them. Why? A person in their koala costume could follow you. 

Be sneaky and get the Transformers as they look the other way. 

Madrid’s Prado Museum is one of the world’s great collections of classical art. You know what you learn pretty quick? Renaissance artists do love Jesus. Innocent baby Jesus. Dying on the cross Jesus. Floating in the sky Jesus. 

 

I took this one of Sandra and Andrea before I learned photography was not allowed. There was a really interesting one by Spanish painter Velazquez.

Before I read what it was, my title for the piece was “A Raven brings a Quarter Pounder”.