Well here I am in Girona, Spain while I should be up in Holland racing Amstel Gold tomorrow.  I am sure most of you know by now that the volcanic ash from Iceland has disrupted much of European travel, and caused headaches all over the world.  I have never been sideline from a race because of a volcano, but I guess there is a first time for everything.  So instead of traveling north today, I headed out for another long training ride, hoping that I will get to race Fleche Wallone next Wednesday.  It is difficult to get motivated when everything is up in the air at the moment. It looks like the only Amstel I will be doing is a couple Amstel beers while I watch the race tomorrow on TV.

Being stuck in Girona on a Saturday isn’t all that bad.  Saturday is “market day” here in town, mainly on la ramblas, the main shopping street.  Vendors come from all over the area to set up their tents and sell all types off goods from purses to cheese.  There is even a stand for nameplates for children (see picture), and for some reason I find it interesting to read all of the Catalan names. This Saturday is extra special as it marks the start of Sant Joan, a weeklong festival here in Catalunya.  I am not sure the exact meaning of Sant Joan, or any other of the many holidays here, but from what I gather the men are suppose to buy the women roses and in return they receive a book.  More importantly, it is just a week of celebrating, eating, drinking, enjoying the outdoors and, of course, making a lot of noise.  Here are some pictures from my walk down la ramblas today.