Things I'll be watching

For those of you who aren't following European politics closely, here is an article that will give you a snapshot of the current happenings in Spanish politics: http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/politics/2011/09/08/spanish-senate-approves-constitutional-cap-on-deficit/

As it points out, elections are going to be held early this year according to Prime Minister Zapatero and his party's wish that reforms be enacted more quickly. I believe he and his party are pushing the elections up for two reasons: First, a genuine concern for the state of the Spanish economy, which is in shambles, and the sentiment of the public which is extremely unhappy with its governing body much like elsewhere in Europe. Second, despite not running for reelection, Zapatero and his party may believe that pushing through austerity measures and constitutional reforms like the one mentioned above right before the election cycle, combined with the fear and uncertainty rocking European and American markets, may take some of the wind out of the sails of the Populist Party which is currently leading the November polls. These are just some thoughts on the whole thing. I really lucked out, coming over during what will certainly be an important election cycle, both for Spain and for the rest of the European Union.

Finally, just a thought: I exchanged some cash for Euros two days ago, and for those of you who haven't handled any Euros, guess what image recurs on their bills..........not presidents or famous Europeans or anything like that. The recurring image is (I think) Roman aqueducts. Think about it.