The traveling contingent of "Mums of Alums" finally realized their visit to Spain during Spring Break 2009.  Their planning for this trip began in December of 2000, but world events intervened and postponed the group's adventure.

Joining Villa teachers Connie Schmollinger and Brian Welch were Anne Weidman, Maureen Herr, Pat Azar, Pam Hobelman, Suzanne Weiss, Ellen Gray, and Kathi Gaffney.  The core of this traveling group bonded during work on the class quilt for the Class of 1998 but has expanded to include "Sisters of Mums of Alums" and "Alums" and "Cousins of Husbands of Mums of Alums."  This group has also toured Italy (1998) and Germany/Austria (2000). 

In preparation for this tour, the group began their "homework" in September 2008; they attended "class" with Dr. Schmollinger and Mr. Welch each month to learn about the architectural styles and Moorish influence in Andalusia, the Christian Reconquest, and contributions of the Moorish culture to Southern Spain.  Through slide shows, a reading list, and film suggestions, the group was well prepared for their March 2009 departure.

After landing in Madrid, the travelers boarded their coach, which would deliver them to each of their locations: Toledo, Granada, Ronda, Seville, and Cordoba before the group boarded the fast train, the AVE, to return to Madrid.  In each city, a local guide gave them the overview of the city and took them to the most significant cathedrals, palaces, and museums.  While enroute to Seville, the coach whisked the travelers to Portugal for an afternoon in a picturesque fishing village and sun-drenched time on a sandy beach fronting the eastern edge of the Atlantic Ocean. 

With tips for great restaurants and excellent shopping advice, these Villa Mums of Alums and Alums thoroughly enjoyed their travels.