Ah, the afternoon siesta

Upon first glance, the city of Toledo, Spain conjures up images of medieval times and Spain's legendary character, Don Quixote. Turrets on the famous Alcázar palace and high brick walls designed to ward off intruders complete the historic landscape.\nWalking down the city's cobblestone streets feels like a trip back in time, destroyed only by the Fiats and Seats speeding down small alleyways and narrowly missing the numerous pedestrians wandering the city. \nCloset-set buildings with intricate iron-work balconies frame the exterior of every window. Dogs wander carefree through the streets, as did the tour group until some of them stepped in the presents the dogs so freely left on the sidewalks. Works of art by the famous painter El Greco attract tourists from around the world.\nToledo is the type of city that could inspire anyone with its serenity and incredible views. It is surrounded on three sides by the River Tajo. \nThe timeless beauty of hand-crafted work has withstood centuries of battles, yet preserves the relaxed Spanish attitude -- summed up perfectly by one of the city's many street performers.\nAs the tour group entered la Plaza de la Cathedral, a lone musician stood in the center playing "Let it Be" by the Beatles. Unlike America, time is not of the essence here. People take two or three hours for lunch, while businesses routinely close in the afternoon for large family meals and an afternoon siesta. Americans call this a bad business tactic, closing in the middle of the day, but hey, who am I to argue with when discussing afternoon naps? Give me my pillow and blanket, and I am as happy as a Spaniard in a winery.\nPeople take time to smell the roses in Retiro Park. They sit in little coffee shops after work to discuss life, politics and sports. Rushing from place to place is not the life. Instead, people enjoy the city's ambiance. Of course, the ambiance includes chocolate con churros, which is like a cup of hot chocolate, pudding and big Cinnamon Twists from Taco Bell, only much better.\nLife is no longer one hectic race, but a relaxed stroll through the trials and tribulations of everyday occurrences. Let life be. It makes it a lot more fun to live.