It’s a bittersweet time in the palace this week. Most us are beginning to think more and more about getting to reunite with family and friends yet feel guilty because we don’t want this amazing trip to be coming to a close. Thankfully, our administrators know what they are doing and have made sure that we have many more adventures ahead of us.
Today we traveled to the local olive oil press and had the opportunity to tour the facility as well as watch the entire pressing process. We even got to purchase some of the olive oil and we then found out later that they had pressed this batch just for us—talk about feeling special! This trip of course wasn’t just a time placeholder. Academics are always first priority here but it wasn’t hard to gather knowledge from this adventure – all we had to do is look around. We learned that it takes roughly 20 pounds of olives to make only one liter of olive oil, which from the picture below, looks like it takes a lot of picking and patience. We also learned that there are two different ways to retrieve the oil from the olives. There is a hot press (modern) and a cold press (original). Of course, the more modern technique is quicker and more productive but the cold press is the way to go for the best oil which) makes sense- they don’t call it an oldie but goodie for nothing.
This weekend is also full of adventures for a few other girls and me because we are making a trip across borders to Barcelona, Spain. We have little planned for this trip and are looking forward to just exploring the city. We do however plan to stroll down Las Ramblas and visit the beach- even if it’s a bit chilly. We aren’t the only group of girls traveling and looking for just a bit more adventure. There is a small group of ladies making their way to the romantic spot of Paris, France. They plan on dining under the twinkling lights of the Eiffel tower, locking in their love on the famous lock bridge, and visiting the notable flower markets. I hope they take good notes because Paris is next on my list of last minute adventures.
Although home is creeping into our minds more and more each passing day, it’s no secret that this group of girls isn’t phased and plan on taking every single opportunity for one last trip!
Ciao Ciao,
Emma Callicoat

Just a barrel full of olives!