My Senora, Senora Augustina or Tina, was as always quite forthcoming about life in Spain. Like most of the people I have met here, she is always happy to answer the host of questions that arise when an ignorant American comes to a very different country. As a side note, it was very nice to find that the people here tend to be quite pleasant and helpful, especially compared to the people in many American cities.
Anyway, Tina does her food shopping in a supermercado three or four times a week. She goes shopping whenever there is something she needs, and she goes with only that specific thing in mind. For example, when I mentioned I liked fruit, she went to the supermercado to buy some to have at the apartment for me and the rest of the household. She has noticed significant increases in the cost of food, mentioning that every week the prices of everything get higher. One specific example she gave was oil whose cost has apparently doubled in recent months. As far as cooking is concerned, she spends anywhere from an hour to two hours preparing for lunch and dinner. Breakfast does not involve any cooking. So, she spends anywhere from two to four hours cooking every day. Her favorite foods are paella, tortilla, and embutido.
You obviously live with a very thoughtful woman. The fact that she bought fruit after you mentioned liking it was very nice of her. I hope your conversations continue over the lunch/dinner table as you continue to learn about Spain, it's food and culture!
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