Earlier today, I traveled to Miami to pick up my Spanish visa. I seriously didn’t know what to expect, but what I got was a super-cool sticker that indicates that I have a visa. Funnily enough, there is another (and better) picture of me on the visa than on the passport. (Let me tell you, when I go to renew my passport, I am going to take the photo process well into my own hands!) There is also foil engraving and other official-looking writing on the visa, and I also received a notice that I have 30 days upon entering Spain to register with the local police as a citizen.
Getting a visa apparently also takes a village, and I couldn’t have gotten this far without support from my friends and family. From Michael listening to my stress-induced rants to Melina helping me with translations, and Elaine notarizing everything in sight, there are so many people who have encouraged me and bolstered my determination to make this adventure come true.
In the next two weeks, I have to finish packing all of the effects of my life, spend a little time with some family and friends, sell my car, and submit my PhD prospectus. Only a few things to do, I suppose!