Tiers of bicycle parking, Centraal Station, Amsterdam.
This week David and I are in Amsterdam. When I woke up this morning, I didn't imagine a totally unexpected opportunity would come my way - and I'd seize it! Yes! Sometimes one has to leap! Consequently, I'll be spending the month of July in Sevilla, Spain, working on photographic essays.
Now those who know me will say that me + Sevilla in July is hardly an ideal formula. And they'd be right. I dislike hot, humid weather and avoid it, whenever possible. The fiery summer heat is why - after studying Spanish in 2006 in Sevilla - I decided I could never live there long-term. But when an opportunity to spend July in the city's famous Santa Cruz barrio practically fell into my lap, I knew it would be crazy to let something like 40 degrees Celsius temperatures stop me.
After all, air-conditioned museums, churches, restaurants and department stores can help make the heat tolerable. And the best time to shoot photos is early in the morning or in the evening. So, for a few weeks, I shall adapt to a climate that normally wreaks havoc with my sinuses. I can take trains to Cordoba, Granada and Madrid. My husband will come to Sevilla for visits or meet me in Madrid, one of our favourite cities.
Meanwhile, I won't be accessing a computer again until Friday, when we're back in Paris. Hope you have a terrific week ahead! And should a marvelous opportunity come your way, consider taking a risk. You never know what wonders may await.
so excited for you! can't wait to hear more...
x
Posted by: leonie wise | 22 May 2010 at 11:38
Ticker tape parade for YOU!!
Posted by: Swirly | 21 May 2010 at 06:28
Go for it girl! It can't be that much hotter thanit get here in SW Florida in July ! Ugh! ..But I am moving again..heh heh
Posted by: pam aries | 21 May 2010 at 03:18
You'll be fine! Being up & out early on summer mornings in Sevilla is always so lovely - as is staying out late enjoying a cold drink on a terrazza (sleep? you can catch up after lunch).
You can also take a train to Cádiz, which is one of my favourite day-trip destinations.
Really looking forward to meeting you!
Posted by: azahar | 20 May 2010 at 09:47
If I can ever be paid to take pictures I will consider my life a success! I am jealous and proud of you, my friend.
Posted by: Donna | 20 May 2010 at 06:46
First...I LOVE this photo of the bike commuters in Amsterdam
AND
what a fantastic opportunity to be on a photo assignment in Sevilla. I adore this city.
x..x
Posted by: Stephanie | 19 May 2010 at 23:20
All I could think of was, is it really four years since you were in Sevilla?? Time flies.
xxoo
Posted by: Colette | 19 May 2010 at 21:22
I'm already eeing gorgeous burnt shades of orange and gold in my mind..very excited about your assignment. Congratulations, and when all else fails, do enjoy a slow, cold drink, essential in those temps.
Posted by: Natalie | 19 May 2010 at 11:54
Oh, Tara. July?! I would faint periodically and have to be resusitated with Sangria.
This is all very exciting. I can't WAIT for your Amsterdam photos! When you get this comment, send them right over to me, stat!
Chris
p.s. Or, I'll just wait patiently, like all your other fans.
Posted by: Chris | 17 May 2010 at 21:34
Oh Tara, I know how you feel about the heat and humidity! I can't wait to visit Spain but not in the warmer months! I cannot operate in the heat. You're right though, to pass that opportunity up would be crazy. I'm excited for you, can't wait for the pictures!
Posted by: Elizabeth Rhiannon | 17 May 2010 at 18:48
Yes, I would love to seize a month in Seville or somewhere exotic like it. I hope you time in Amsterdam is fruitful. Have a very good week.
Posted by: Marilyn | 17 May 2010 at 18:31
Hi Tara,
Regina here, for ExpatWomen.com.
I would like to personally invite you to list your blog on our Expat Women Blog Directory (www.expatwomen.com/expatblog/) so that other women can read about and learn from your expat experiences.
Many thanks in advance for your contribution and keep up your great blog!
Regina
Posted by: Expat Women | 17 May 2010 at 10:34
Great advice...something I already like to do. :)
Glad you jumped on the chance to getaway from the usual, and spice up your July.
Talk with you soon, enjoy Amsterdam! xoxo
Posted by: Gillian | 17 May 2010 at 04:04
I know exactly what you mean about heat and humidity - I'm still coming to terms with GA! So happy for you that you were in the right place at the right time to catch such a plum job! Best wishes!
Posted by: Barbara | 17 May 2010 at 01:21
I too would seize the day like that, but I haven't gotten any such offers, Tara!
Posted by: RD | 17 May 2010 at 00:13
very sound advice...and sevilla will be wonderful! i can't wait to see the photos you take!
Posted by: julochka | 16 May 2010 at 22:08
What a wonderful opportunity, I hope you can manage the climate
Posted by: Crafty Green poet | 16 May 2010 at 20:01
How wonderful! I too hate the heat and humidity, but I know it will be a wonderful and memorable stay. Enjoy! Oooooof! Look at all those bikes. I couldn't believe it when we were there. You really have to watch out for them. What a fabulous city, Amsterdam!
Posted by: Rosemary Antoshak | 16 May 2010 at 19:15