Being in Barcelona is like re-reading a favorite book or re-watching a favorite movie: No matter how many times you do it, you keep finding more and more things to enjoy about it and notice things you've never noticed previously.

As I look back on Saturday, we actually did many things, although the day seemed perfectly relaxed and easy. The highlight for me (and I think for my cohorts, as well) was our visit to the Casa Batlló, another apartment building which is a creation of Gaudi's. We had't been there before, so when Becky suggested it, we were all in. With due respect to my previous accolades about the miracle of online booking, somehow, this fell one through the cracks and we didn't have tickets. No worries. We can stand on a (not terribly long) line to buy them. As Becky stood in line, she decided she would have none of it. She took out her phone, bought the tickets online (as opposed to on line) and we proceeded to march right up to the entrance. Very cool....at least for us. I don't know how the others on the line felt about it.

The price of admission included an audio guide...and this was so high tech and well-done. It made the aspects of the building come alive, with just the right level of detail and enthusiasm. The use of color, light and form create a structure you'll never see replicated. Nothing was left to chance and it is truly unique.....a feel good, often whimsical experience.

Eventually, the topic of dinner came up. One can't starve in Barcelona but we were looking for something special in which to celebrate our Captain's birthday. (Yes, for those of you who keep track, it isn't for a few days, but Becky and Dave will be going on a pre-planned trip for a few days, and by the time we rejoin them, Ken's birthday ship will have sailed...so to speak.

Becky suggested taking a taxi to the Barri Gòtic, the Old Town...and after not quickly finding something in TripAdvisor, the bible of restaurant-goers, Becky asked the driver for a suggestion. This could go either way. He could have taken us to his brother-in-law's mediocre over-priced restaurant....or he could give us the benefit of local knowledge. The latter was the case (even if it is owned by his brother-in-law...nah, not really). Each tapas dish was superb, and different from what we have been eating. (In case you are planning a trip here, the name of the restaurant is Set de Gòtic. It's located on a tiny little quiet street in the Old Town, and we would never have stumbled on it on our own). We even sang the birthday songs to Ken, and the whole restaurant joined in. Nice! Another memorable birthday celebration to add to our list.

I couldn't find a pic which would adequately portray the wonder and awe of Casa Battló, so I suggest, if you're interested, you google it. Instead, I'm posting this (yes, admittedly cheesy and touristy) pic of the four of us....which we bought in exchange for our first born child....but the money goes for a good cause: the upkeep and preservation of this magnificent building.