May 10, 2011

Today is Mother's Day in Mexico so we are remembering all our friends and family who are mothers in Mexico for today; and those who celebrated on Sunday.  Hope you got to rest and enjoy! Tonight Mario and Mario will take Laura and me to dinner and whether they know it or now, we will be celebrating!

This morning we went to the Picasso Museum and spent a few hours there.  There is a permanent exhibit with some of his very early work, but also important pieces from the turn of the century and his blue period.  There is some of his very late work there, as well as ceramic pieces.  I thought his very early work which he signed P. Ruiz-Picasso was very interesting.   It was well worth the visit.

The museum is in the middle of the Gothic neighborhood and it has a fantastic atmosphere, but you have to be careful.  There are many tourist and many pickpockets.  Mario and I averted one when we saw one woman give the signal to a guy and when he started to follow us, Mario turned around and looked right at him a couple of times.  We had both seen the "sign." After a couple of menancing looks from the big guy, this guy just walked quickly ahead of us.  Of course, I was saying, "Mother Mary, keep us safe."  I know those people are busy, Mom,  but this was an emergency.  

We went to the Cathedral which is only open from 1-5 and got there in good time to really explore all the art and architecture dating back to the 1200's.  We even got to go up on the roof for our 6 Euro (each) ticket.  Mario got some beautiful shots.

Finally, we went down to the seafood market "La Boqueria" down by Las Ramblas.  It was still early and daylight so we were okay.  There is a wonderful display of seafood, fruit, vegetables and sweets.
After walking so much, I insisted we take a taxi back to get a shower and change before dinner.  So, see you all tomorrow.  We are flying to Bilbao in the morning.