This morning my narrow pedestrian alley below my tiny balcony was humming with passersby by 9:00. I finally got up around 11, and went out into the street right away. The crowds have continued until now, 1 pm. The Virgen has just returned from the entire night of being carried around the city. I went to the foot of my street and tried to get a glimpse of her among the throng that filled the entire street for blocks, and the Plaza behind me. I wandered back and forth; every alleyway leading onto Calle Pureza was crammed with people hoping to see the paso as it passed. I settled for glimpses from a distance, and then went to have breakfast at a sunny bar on Rodrigo de Triana (same street where I go to school). The bar was crammed of course, with people doing the same thing as me. I stood at a table outside and looked at the tropical plants and geraniums on some particularly beautiful balconies. The various processions winding up for today were being broadcast on the TV in the bar, and being watched by Pepa and the boys when I got home.

The alley smells strongly of urine - no surprise with people having to wait hours in crowds. I heard a couple of saetas on TV and now I have to go to work (just here in my room). As an aside - I think I understand what stitches are for, as my finger is still bleeding at times, a whole week after cutting it.