Why I spent 30 hours in Spain - The Ultimate Family Surprise

In just 30 hours in Spain, I experienced the kind of moments we spend a lifetime trying to hold onto. A spontaneous flight, a surprise reunion, and a final match that meant everything. This wasn’t just travel. It was a reminder of why being present matters most. There are moments in life you plan for… and others that ask you to leap without hesitation. This was one of those moments.

The Pull of Spain and the Game We Love

Every year, XR Soccer brings select youth players from the United States to compete in the Mundialito tournament in Cambrils, Spain. It’s not just a tournament. It’s an experience layered with culture, growth, and connection.

Previously, our elder son had the opportunity to play in this tournament in 2022 and 2023. From the very first trip, Spain became more than a destination. It became part of our family’s story. However, this year looked different. With one son now committed to the Rapids Academy, our schedules collided. One of us had to stay back in the U.S. And this time, it was me.

Following From Afar

Each day, more updates came in from Spain; Another win. Another advancement. Another step closer. And with every message, the distance felt heavier. As a mother, and as someone who deeply values capturing these moments. I could feel time passing without me in it.

Then came the message: They had the final group-stage win. They were playing for first place in Spain. If they won, this would be a first in XR Soccer history, at Mundialito.

The Decision That Changed Everything

I messaged out oldest, "do you want to go to Spain?" At first he thought I was joking. He finally replied, if you pinky promise this isn't a lie. I'll go!" Within minutes, I was searching flights. If I left within two hours, we could land in Barcelona, Spain by morning. We'd arrive just in time.

This wasn’t practical. It wasn’t planned. But it was clear in my heart, I had to be there. I booked the tickets. I packed in a rush, and we headed to the airport. Without telling our family we were coming!

We traveled overnight. The long flight. A last-minute cab from Barcelona to Cambrils, Spain. And then… we were there. Knocking at their hotel door. The surprise. The moment. That alone was worth the entire journey.

Photography Is About Presence

As a photographer, I’ve always believed that the most powerful images come from presence, not necessasrily perfection. Spain gave me exactly that. Chatting in the morning light by the pool. All the unfiltered laughter between teammates. As well as the anticipation before the final match.

No staged sessions. This isn't about curated settings. It's just real, moments. And exactly the kind that matter most.

The Final Match in Spain

XR Soccer vs CF Reus. This was an incredibly hard match. An extremly worthy opponent. And a moment years in the making. While the final score didn’t fall in our favor, something deeper unfolded.

Watching my son stand with his team, receiving their second-place trophy in Spain. On the stage surrounded by teammates from different countries, speaking different languages. Yet they were united in effort and heart. It was their story.

The Beauty of Connection Beyond Language

What makes this experience in Spain so unique is what happens off the field. XR Soccer intentionally blends U.S. players with local Spanish athletes, creating teams that must learn to communicate, adapt, and trust without a shared language. And yet, they do.

Through:

• Shared meals in lively Spanish plazas
• Late-night conversations using Google Translate
• Pickup games in open squares after dinner

They build something lasting. As a photographer, these are the moments I would chase every time!

30 Hours in Spain. A Lifetime Captured.

In total, we spent just 30 hours in Spain. Thirty hours that held; A spontaneous leap of faith. Followed by a once-in-a-lifetime surprise. Seeing that championship match are memories I would never trade. It was never about the length of the the trip. But about choosing to be there and showing up.

If you’re standing on the edge of a decision and wondering if something is worth it, this is your reminder. Go! Take the trip, and show up to be present. Whether it’s Spain or somewhere closer to home, the moments that matter most rarely come with perfect timing.

But they do ask for your presence. And the only real regret? Is wondering what it would have felt like if you hadn't gone!

A Note From Behind the Lens

These are the moments I hold onto. All the in-between, the unplanned, the deeply personal pieces of your story. If you find yourself wanting to remember your own moments this way. With honesty, beauty, and without pressure to be anything other than present. I would love to document that for you.

Because the images we value most aren’t just seen. They’re felt, long after the moment has passed.

Check out more of my work here!