Trading spit may not be the most romantic descriptor for the romantic greeting that lovers share on the streets of Barcelona, but it captures an earthiness that puts more than lip gloss into the gestures, images, food and buildings.  The coupling of history, geography, sociology and physicality creates a symbol-rich environment to shatter the norms of restraint with creativity.  The spires of the Gaudi designed cathedral tower over the city of Barcelona as evidence of aesthetic and engineering giftedness.  The main entrance is being completed in accordance with the original design.  The communal steadfastness underscores a commitment to faith, art and tourism — not all inclusive.

Flagging the balcony as the column rises in the background captures the juxtaposition of the flares of war and the tides of shalom.  This 1917 painting by Picasso is part of the leading collection of his work displayed in the Picasso Museum.  This collection reflects a rootedness and a communal steadfastness to faith, art and tourism — a monument to the roots of aesthetic coupling.

The climb up the hill, without escalators, was worth every muscle stretching step.  At the pinnacle, Guell Park, one of the living masterpieces of architect Antoni Gaudi.  This heritage site has an understated way of dwarfing the temporary glitz of the collage of Disneyland.  The colour, the living gardens and the playfulness at every turn has taken this park and made it a visitor magnet.

Hanging like smoked ham the peppers colour the olive and cheese display.  The prominent food groups on display in every “mercato” bear witness to the underlying nourishment delivered on every street, passage way and plaza. This is where living in Barcelona comes full circle.  The lips savoring the romantic, the edible and the beautiful are a composite of a way of life that attracts attention.  Often sinking the spirit of living.