Merry Christmas!!!

We had an awesome Christmas in Santiago!! I will let the pictures do the talking.


Christmas party at orphanage:
Aaron's "Company Christmas party"
Christmas Eve Service
Cookies, puzzle, opening gifts on Christmas morning

BBQ cookout and swimming - Christmas day

Orphanage I volunteer at ("Baby house") in the afternoon

Dinner with our friends visiting

Great day!

Muchas Gracias

Yay, I'm done with classes! Here's my little speech (in Spanish of course) accepting my "diploma"

:-)

So proud!

Vamos CATOLICA!

Saturday, December 5, 2009

10:00 am

I receive an email from Diego (Director of Curriculum at our school and new friend) that has several recommendations for the game we’re going to that night. It’s the Division 1 finals for the professional soccer league in Chile and game 1 of the 2 game Championship. The teams are “Catolica” (who we are cheering for) vs “Colo Colo” – both bitter enemies.

He recommends the following:

1) Don’t eat much during the day as the bathrooms will be filthy with human waste and you’ll have to tippy toe through waste covered floors by game time (gets worse as the clock tics). Holes in the ground will be the only form of toilets so #2 is out of the question (no t.p. too).

2) For Jen’s sake, it’s best not to wear shorts due to whistles, comments, gestures etc. from fans on both sides.

3) No valuables: wallets, purses, much money, cameras or anything else someone may want as it will be a full house and lots of muggings and pick-pockets happen at these intense matches. Do bring an ID though. He also says to be on the look out for safety as Colo Colo fans are pretty ruthless (although both teams have the fanatics).

4) Wearing a hat could be good idea for extra protection as many items (including rocks) can be thrown into the crowds from opposing teams.

5) We need to meet 4 hours early to make our way towards the stadium for extra safety before too many “Colo Colo” fans are there waiting and ready to ambush.

The list went on with several other precautions, but he did ensure the police will be 3 x of what it is normally.

2:40

Jenny and I arrive at “Los Leones” metro stop (subway) to meet Diego, his girlfriend Fannie, Cristian, and another guy from Germany. Diego again reinforces what he said about the bathrooms and asks us use the restroom.

3:20

We arrive at our desired bus stop a few blocks away from the subway. A large group of about 40 Catolica “fanatics” are approaching from the opposite direction. They are cheering and chanting different “Catolica” cheers and walking down the middle of the street causing traffic to stop before them. Most are drinking alcohol while others are throwing the empties wherever they please. They arrive to the stop we are waiting at along with about 8-10 other people and completely take over the area shouting and singing at the top of their lungs. They turn the back of the actual bus stop into a large drum and pound on it as hard as they can and scare off many of the bystanders. The others waiting at the stop along with us quickly leave the area and begin walking towards the next stop to get away from any potential danger.

3:30

We arrive at the next stop just in time as we see a bus approaching. We line up single file in preparation to board. The bus nears to 100 yards away and we begin hearing the loud chanting again. It pulls up to stop with the doors stuck open as so many fanatics are smashed into the bus rocking it back and forth, drinking, cheering and singing loudly. It moves on as no one at this stop wants or attempts to ride the bus. As it drives off graffiti paper is thrown out the side windows along with a beer can or two. A few minutes later another bus arrives without the fans and we board.

4:00

We exit the bus at a small park with about 300 or so Catolica fans already gathering. The plan is to wait until the Carabineros de Chile (armored police that look like commandos) clear a path. They will then herd us to the stadium. They do this to try and maintain peace as well as protect both the mass of fans that are gathering for each team. They’re anticipating Colo Colo fans to be hiding outside the stadium waiting to attack Catolica (us) on the parade there. Immediate retaliation is also definite and the Carabineros hope to control it as best they can. The Carabineros look like they are ready for battle. They have armor covering their entire body along with bullet proof vests, helmets, face guards, shields, guns, and night sticks in hand.

Everyone in the park is getting riled up with each passing minute. The strength and energy of the crowd increases as the number continues to grow. Club flags are everywhere representing not only Catolica, but signaling the several different neighborhoods of the Catolica fans. We begin to see allied battles of songs and chants from each neighborhood (fun to see the pride of each neighborhood). After a few songs and chants are finished all the fans of Catolica join in together and the energy explodes! It is quite impressive to observe.

As we near the departure time to parade towards the stadium small groups of people encircle individuals to keep them from the view of the Carabineros. We watch them wrap around their mid sections (like diapers) illegal club banners, flags and club paraphernalia – then pulling their pants up and over to hide. I now see how the fanatics get so many different types of flares, smoke grenades and all sorts of objects and weapons into the games.

5:30

It’s time to march for the stadium. The route has been set up by the Carabineros and they’re ready to proceed with the escort. The crowd (at least 6,000 strong now) begins to move in a massive horde down a side street toward the stadium. Huge drums are pounded in unison as we march creating more excitement and energy. Several more songs are echoed along with the beat of the drums. The adrenaline is definitely flowing. My body is now one giant goose bump and feels stronger than ever before. I am walking with Jenny’s right hand clasped in my left. I have my right arm free for any impulsive needs that arise. I begin to wonder if it’s a game we are heading to or the battle field as every step I take meets the ground simultaneously with each beat of the drum. I presume the majority believe we are actually heading to war.

The Carabineros are spread out sporadically on both sides of us. They have their night sticks in hand ready to club whoever dares to act disorderly or instigate anything. Every 30 seconds another person is belted across the back with a night stick. If they open their mouths to lip off or say anything they receive another blow to the upper arm (police brutality in my opinion for sure). Just keep moving – that’s all they want! Some may need the correction and repercussions given to them, but for the most part the police are abusing their power. They use their nightsticks on anyone they choose – it seems for no apparent reason in some cases. I was quite disturbed with some of the abuse I saw from the Carabineros.

Again, I do realize many of these “fanatics” with no brains for safety or consequences deserve what is handed to them. For example, we are crossing a small intersection in a neighborhood where several Colo Colo fans are hiding about 40 yards down a side street. They jump out and begin cursing at us, making gestures, and to my disbelief begin launching rocks into this mass of Catolica fans – rocks the size of plums and racquet balls. Instantaneously several Catolica fanatics start heaving rocks in return and a few burst from the mass of people and begin running towards them to inflict some sort of torture. They don’t even make it 10 yards outside the parade of people when they’re violently struck by nightsticks. WOW – some of those blows had to hurt – so much for going to the game ‘smarties’ – now you get to go to jail and miss it all together. So in essence – they deserve what is handed them.

The Carabineros are relentless in these types of situations. Anything you do out of the ordinary – you’re going to jail. Adding to the list of ‘smarties’ – as a few of these brainless fanatics are roughly dragged to the armored vehicles (to be hauled off) a whole barrage of stones come flying towards the Carabineros from the Catolica fans just ahead of us! Jenny and I had to literally duck out of the way of one stone with it drilling the guy behind us in the noggin! Man – that had to hurt! Glad it wasn’t Jenny or I though! HA!!

6:15

We enter the gates to a completely packed stadium with all the fans jumping up and down roaring! Only one section is reserved for the Catolica fans as game 1 is in Colo Colo’s stadium. There are about 10,000 fans for Catolica total (now that we arrive) and 30,000 Colo Colo fans. Huge flags are waving all throughout the crowd along with thousands of pom poms. Chants are thundering through the stadium from the home crowd. Streamers are thrown from the stands every few minutes to compensate for their short life creating a beautiful effect as they float slowly through the sky to the field. It’s absolutely the most intense environment I have ever witnessed for a sporting event – let alone almost anything!

The stadium is set up so there is no possible way for the fans of each team to come in contact. Barb wire, tall fences and locked gates block any possible opening or route. What’s hilarious is watching the actions of both teams’ fans towards one another in areas where they can’t physically touch each other. Colo Colo has one section near the walkway of the entrance for Catolica and also the bathrooms for the opposing team. The only thing separating the two fans is a thick fence. For about fifteen minutes Jen and I watched them both dual in chants towards each other, curse, spit and make every type of obscene gesture imaginable until the Carabineros finally broke it up by clubbing some Catolica fans on the back to get them moving. It was actually quite entertaining, but probably more repulsive to see the display of actions occurring before us.

The game ended in a 2-2 tie with some awesome goals! We were definitely alert the entire time as rocks were bombing in from the sections surrounding us. Jenny and I were actually unlucky and VERY lucky at the same time as one of the rocks skimmed the side of her head and then hit me on the right side of my back. If the rock would have actually hit her directly without grazing her it would have been a serious injury. I’m not sure that I would have ever felt so helpless before had it hit her square. I may have gone to KILL one of the Colo Colo fans even though I would have never known who it actually was! I actually wanted to attack them anyway as it came within the VICINITY of my hunny bunny!!

9:45

We begin to exit the stadium after an hour wait. The entire stadium has been completely emptied except for the Catolica fans. We are literally locked in our section unable to exit until the Carabineros deem its safe enough to let us leave and confirm most the Colo Colo fans have left the area. When the gates finally open the impatience of the crowd is at its highest level and the mass of fans begin to push hoping to expedite the exit. The force is so strong it nearly crushes the several hundred in front (including us) against the iron fences. One of the scarier moments I’ve had – again feeling completely helpless.

Exiting the gates we find not only the Carabineros ready to escort us again, but about 50 Carabineros on horses as well. The horses are dressed in matching armor of the Carabineros riding them – Probably the toughest, coolest, most intimidating looking horses I’ve ever seen! I sure wish I had my camera to show you this site. They formed a line for about 50 yards that we walked along – it was amazing! I have never seen such a security force first hand.

10:20

The last thing we encountered was at the metro about a mile away from the stadium. Near the station 50-80 Catolica fans started whistling loudly and running from the station towards us. Diego immediately said “run” and turned to run towards the next station. Apparently a mob from Colo Colo was waiting to attack the Catolica fans arriving at the metro. The whistles were warnings to everyone! It was another blood pumping experience for the night. Within 30-45 seconds the area was covered with Carabineros and the regular Policia.

10:40

Homeward bound… needless to say by the time we got on the metro heading to our apartment we were completely exhausted. It was an 8 hour experience with no food or water to help re-energize.

Despite all we saw along with the enormous smoke grenades, flares and fireworks after the goals and waves of people nearly crushing us a few times – it wasn’t enough to keep me away as I’m going to game 2 of the Championship tomorrow. I’m definitely anticipating it to be much crazier as this is the Final game of the season and the game that determines the Champion. Whatever team loses – the fans will be sure to go after the others!

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas!

You’re on Vacation for 8 MONTHS???!!!?????!!!

You’re on Vacation for 8 MONTHS???!!!?????!!!
Well, technically, one year. Yes, it is true that I will be unemployed for one year. WOW… Yippee!!!!.... no work….. PARTY….. lucky!!..... BLISS…... Vacation. These are the thoughts that I’m sure people have as soon as we tell them we are traveling around South America for 8 months. These are the same thoughts I had when we were deciding to go on this adventure (in addition to many others like being scared, nervous, feeling blessed and anxious). At first we had to figure out all the difficult technicalities such as Where do our dogs go? What do we do with the house? What is our budget? Do we keep our cars? What about our jobs? What will we do when we get back? etc. However, after getting all of that taken care of these feelings of excitement poured in even more. I remember the last day of “work” for me (I worked as a nanny this summer), and I had an overwhelming feeling of accomplishment, excitement, and joy. With the exception of leaving the dogs behind, the decision to leave really could not have been easier. It just seemed to be right, and where God was leading us. This opportunity was once-in-a-lifetime, and the thought of pressing pause on life and going on this adventure was one of pure joy.

AA and I got married July 16, 2009. Following the wedding we had a one-week honeymoon on a Caribbean cruise. Then we returned to Colorado, moved out of our houses and finished our jobs, and then August 24, 2009 we loaded up the 4-runner and began our journey cross-country. So we really have not experienced a “normal” life since we got married. We have not lived together in our own house because as soon as we returned from the honeymoon we moved out of our houses and lived with AA’s parents for several weeks.

Today is November 28, almost 3 months to the day since we left Colorado. We still have 75% of the trip ahead of us to look forward to :-). We have spent the last three months seeing new places, learning a new language, meeting new people, experiencing new adventures, discovering different cultures, and doing some pretty unbelievable things. Of course – cause that’s what vacation is all about, right!!??!! Despite the good times we are having, I have to say that I think it’s impossible to be in full-time vacation mode for one year, or even for one month. Because even though you are traveling, not working, and have freedom, life still does exist. The realities of everyday life are still encountered, even though you are transplanted into a different place. I think my expectations were to be in “vacation mode” for the entire year. I didn’t anticipate the realities and challenges that this trip would also provide. I am now realizing that the expectation I had was unrealistic. In addition to the stresses associated with traveling (where will we go, how will we get there, how long will we stay, what will we do everyday, where will we eat, are we on our budget, etc.) we are also adjusting to the stresses of the first year of marriage (learning how to communicate, becoming acquainted with one another’s each and every good and bad habit, learning how to compromise, agreeing on money, forming a Godly relationship, etc.). We spend most hours of the day together which is great, but can also be overwhelming at times. This is all a big adjustment for us both, and change can be difficult. So, my expectations have been slightly revised. Of course I want to make the most out of this awesome time in my life. We have so much to be thankful for and so much to look forward to as well. My husband and I are learning how to accommodate each other’s needs, how to understand each other, and how to be loving partners to each other. I look at this time as an “immersion experience” we are being immersed into a new culture, new language, and new relationship with each other. We are and will continue to share countless amazing adventures and make great memories, but also difficult patches are to be expected. The overall result of building this foundation for our relationship and for our outlook on life and goals and dreams will serve us well in the future. To acknowledge that every day may not feel like a "vacation" has helped me to appreciate things even more. I am really looking forward to the next 9 months of "vacation" and everything that comes along with it.

Santiago

We have been in Santiago, Chile now for about a week and a half. We spent the first week with my parents – my mom has been living here, teaching English for the past several months, and my dad flew in to travel with her for a couple of weeks. It was really great to spend some time with family. On the bus ride from Mendoza, Argentina to Santiago we were delayed several hours due to problems at customs and also a flat tire. We were originally scheduled to arrive in Santiago at 4:30. My mom gave me directions to her apartment and the plan was for me to call her when the bus arrived and they would meet us at the metro station by her apartment. AA and I were sitting on the bus as it pulled into Santiago – the time was 7:30, 3 hours later than expected. He looked out the window and said – “Jen, isn’t that your mom?” I look out the window and sure enough there is my mom (and later I see my dad too) patiently waiting for us to arrive on the only CATA bus coming from Mendoza.


It was a rather cold day, so after waiting over two hours for us and freezing they decided to get some coffee at a café and that’s when we saw them. It was a great feeling! Unfortunately on the metro from the bus station to my mom’s apartment her purse got stolen. Not a good way to start the trip.

Since my mom was still working, the rest of us went to Valpariso and Vina del Mar - Chilean beachtowns on the Pacific ocean - for a daytrip. We did lots of walking and exploring while there. We saw what appeared to be an awesome fresh meat, fruit, and vegetable market. It looked amazing! Other than that we spent most of our time walking along the beach and enjoying the nice weather.



We also did some sightseeing in Santiago - we took the fenicular up the "hill" to get a birds eye view of the city. It was very peaceful and beautiful at the top looking down over the city.



My parents have left now to travel Southern Chile - Patagonia - before returning home. AA and I have the fortunate task of holding down the fort here :-)


From what I have seen so far I am in love with Santiago! It is a perfect size city for me and it just has a great welcoming feel. My mom is living in a very nice part of town called Providencia. The streets are all lined with huge trees, beautiful flower gardens can be found at nearly every door, the city is very clean, big sidewalks, and just very comfortable. It’s hard to put my finger exactly on what it is that I like here so much, but regardless it feels like home. The only negatives I’ve found so far are that the people are very difficult to understand – they speak very fast Spanish with a lot of slang and also cut off the endings of their words – and that it is expensive here – about the same prices as in the states.


I think that Aaron and I have decided to stay here for at least two months, maybe three. We will spend Thanksgiving, Christmas, and new years here and the major summer months. Aaron has found an internship that he is hoping will work out – he will be working in sales/marketing for a language school. This works out well because we will get free classes in exchange for his work. So starting Thursday we will be back in Spanish classes again – yay!!! The classes will be in the mornings, and he will work in the afternoons. I hope to do some volunteer work at an orphanage in addition to some odds and ends at a church here. We feel like many things are falling into place for us here and it’s really working out well.

Missing you all lots (including Booker, Kahlua, Hunie, and Rook)!!!!
xoxoxoxoxo

My Grandma

Today is the memorial for my Grandma Boyd that passed away a couple weeks ago. It has been difficult to be in S. America and away from my family at this time of sadness. She was an awesome woman and I will always miss her. I wanted to share a poem I wrote for her and that will be shared at her memorial. My Grandma always loved to play with my 4 little nephews and try to get them to clap their hands (as they are very young). She would always clap her hands in unison with the 3 words "clap your hands" - it was the cutest thing. I love you Grandma:


Grandma
Clap your hands
Clap your hands
Always there
Full of heart
Cheerful and bright
Ready to love

Warm and gentle
Kind and humorous
Sometimes pitching in surprisingly
Filling hearts with fun laughter and joy
Adorable - so very adorable
Thank you for your constant love and interest

Candy
Candy by the door
Candy before you leave
Be sure to grab a piece on your way out
Mmm... I'll take a toffee or cinnamon one
Maybe two
Thanks Grandma

Clap your hands
Clap your hands
Tender and precious
Mindful of our well being
Always sure to ask
and lately, ask again, and maybe even again
Such great moments and memories now to cherish
Reflecting on the smiles you created

I am warm now Grandma
Warmer than before
No need to worry
I feel your love and embrace
I love you Grandma

Thank you
For always being there
I will always clap my hands for you
Clap your hands
Clap your hands

In memory of my wonderful Grandma
who has always been around
and who I will always love
Clap your hands
Clap your hands

Your grandson,
Aaron

Fun Times!

Salinas Grandes, Northern Argentina
(Great salt flats)

Memories

Turns out that a lot of blogging gets done on our bus journeys – watch the video for a tour.



We ended up getting plenty of company on the bus shortly after the video – but it was fun being the only ones on the bus while it lasted. Now the sun is setting, AA is napping (for the second time today), and a movie is playing. The movies are all in English with Spanish subtitles. This particular bus ride is 22 hours, after just finishing a 7 hour bus ride leaving Brazil and returning to Argentina. I have spent the last hour gazing out the window and reminiscing on life. Out of the blue I realized that I am 28 years old, no longer a little girl, and life is passing by – way too quickly! Too often we go through the motions of life and forget to pay attention to the fact that we are living life. The last hour I have been reliving the past 28 years and I’m dumbfounded that I’m not that tall, gangly 5th grader anymore that is standing in the cafeteria and nervous about starting middle school. Here are some of the other fond memories/emotions that I can distinctly remember as if it was yesterday that they occured. Maybe some of you who have been by my side through these times will get a giggle out of them. It is funny what our brain chooses to remember.

Mike, Chris, and Tom Ackerman have stolen my Barbie and ripped off her head. They have climbed up the tree in front of the house and are taunting me. I am standing below, crying, thinking they are so mean.

Christine Amerman and I are determined that Spotty, the cat, will fit into my doll clothes.

I wanted to wear my white, MC Hammer pants EVERYDAY in 5th grade. My mom told me I wore them too much but I was hoping Rusty Moore would notice how good I looked and ask me to be his girlfriend. (He never did)

Mrs. Jones made me stay after school to practice writing my r’s in cursive.

We ate a grilled chicken sandwich, French fries, a nutter-butter, and Hawaiian punch every day for lunch at Lakeview middle school. And we all weighed nothing…???....

My mom picked me up from track practice after school, and we were rushing to get me to ballet on time. I am changing from my sweaty uniform into ballet tights in the back seat of the car and begging my mom to let me skip ballet.

Meagan, Katharyne, Jolie and I are in the back seat of the caravan, driving to Virginia and seeing who can fit the most pixie sticks in their mouth. So much laughter!

The feelings of being in love for the first time in high school, followed by the tremendous low of breaking up.

Being so nervous before the water polo game at Lake Brantley.

Feeling so much gratitude and love at my surprise 16th birthday party in Miami.

The feeling in my stomach on graduation day when the commencement song started playing. And realizing the impact of change seeing tears in my mom’s eyes.

Waving good-bye to my family when they dropped me off in Colorado for college. Felt so many different emotions that I didn’t know what I was feeling.

The overwhelming pride I felt when I read the letter saying I would graduate from CSU magna-cum-laude. (If you know the secret….shhhh)

The very nervous anticipation of interviewing and landing my first job.

The heartache of divorce and its consequences.

Feeling an intense sense of accomplishment when I crossed the finish line in 3 hrs, 40 min, and 47 seconds.

The pure humility and overwhelming emotion of letting God back in.

The joy of a happy heart jumping up and down in my chest wanting more, more, more.

It has been fun to think back and feel the joys and pains of living my life. It would be great to appreciate these emotions as we are in the moment. Instead I know that I rush through them and hurry on to the next task. Hopefully you’ll stop today and press pause on your life. Live, feel, embrace.

Holy Macaco!

JenA and I were excited to go for our usual camina (walk) for the day now that we were in beautiful, Maringa, Brazil and had a new, large park to explore. Not that we believed a walk around the park here would be any different. The walking trail of “Parque do Inga” consists of a large circular path (3200 meters round) and encompasses a thick green jungle of Brazilian trees, bushes and plants (turned out to be a great place for Jenny to run each day). A tall fence lines the walking trail to keep the jungle area separate and to help maintain the habitat.

The park was designed so that every 800 meters or so had little exercise areas with the equipment provided by the city. You can do sit-ups, pull ups, curls, rows, and get some cardio by using the gliders provided or mosey around all the usual equipment for a well rounded workout. The funny thing to me was there was not really any weight associated with these exercise machines – it was mainly just the motion (which I guess is better than nothing). I definitely liked the concept and so did the people as the areas were always in use.


Another interesting experience at the park was a little stand along the path selling fresh coconut water. It was so fun to see! We ordered ourselves a couple glasses and the guy chopped off the top of the coconut and placed it upside-down letting the water leak through a small filtration system right into our cups. Mmm… it was so tasty and refreshing in the humidity of the day and so different from the norm of the parks in the U.S.


I do have to say the best part of the park (or surprise I should say) is what we encountered further down the path. We were walking along chatting when we heard ruffling above us in the trees. It sounded as if it was coming right at us. Sure enough - out of the thick green foliage popped a little “Macaco” (ma kah coe) jumping and swinging ever so easily in our direction until it let go of the last vine and plopped itself right on top of the wooden fence post just in front of us. Jen and I looked at each other with huge smiles and amazement! We both have never had this happen before and have never been this close to a monkey – not even at the zoo. This little guy was so curious and had no hesitation in coming up close to us in plain view – he must have recognized we were foreigners – and within seconds his entire family joined him in observing us.


Little did I know 4 years later from eating frango lasagna (chicken lasagna) with Guilherme and Lucia (both from Brazil) at their apartment in Denver that I would be sleeping in his old room at his family’s house in Maringa. Oh the treasure and unknown of friendships and what’s to come…

At that time the 3 of us sat around the dinner table trying to communicate - with them speaking hardly any English and me speaking no Portuguese. After a couple years of solid friendship and many fun experiences together we taught each other a good amount of each other’s language.

Now sitting here in Maringa after spending the last 5 days with his family (who speak very little English) makes me treasure the friendship even more, the little Portuguese I learned from him and the common bond his family and I immediately shared upon arrival. It only took about 1 day for my memory to come back and to understand much of what was being spoken to me. It was so exciting and fun to understand Portuguese as not many people do. It was also encouraging to see the Brazilian’s we met impressed with the amount of knowledge and understanding I had for their language. I only wish Guilherme himself could have been here too (he’s in Australia).


Guilherme’s parents (Valdir and Luci) made us lunch and dinner each day and we all (his brother Rafael too) sat around the table enjoying ourselves trying to communicate every time. Each day got more comfortable and fun as we shared many laughs in trying. It was déjà vu from 4 years ago in the opposite setting (me being in Brazil this time). They also took us around town each day to show us the city, where my good friend Gui grew up, and the famous “Catedral” downtown which can be seen from anywhere in the city. It makes for a “bom vista” (great view) from their balcony and has a design in which neither Jen nor I have ever seen.


A fond memory I will have as well is when Valdir wanted to show me how to make Brazil’s most famous drink – the Caipirinha. He took me one morning to his mother’s house where she had a lime tree in the back yard. We picked several nice, fresh green limes and headed back to his house. After slicing up all the limes and some fresh pineapple, we mixed them together in a glass mug and took a mashing tool (not sure of the name) and mashed the fruit together until the cup was 1/3 full of fresh juices. We then put in spoonful of sugar and topped off the mug with ice cubes and “Ypioca” liquor. MY GOODNESS – fresh Caipirinha’s are soooo good! We have an awesome video of it that Jen took too – best part is that it was only noon as Jen shows when the drinks began.



We also experienced their daily life of “O Clube” (the club) they belong to and go to each day for a variety of different activities. The club has soccer fields, futsal courts, tennis courts, volleyball courts, pools, bocha (a different form of bowling and shuffleboard mixed), a gym, bar/ cafeteria area, several areas for dancing, playing cards, playgrounds for children, sauna’s, hot tubs, showers and pretty much anything else you can think of that’s related. They have a variety of leagues for each sport as well which seem to be quite competitive – especially futebol (soccer in Portuguese)! I actually played for Valdir (Guilherme’s dad) as he’s injured. It was much more than what I thought I was getting into. Let’s just say after the 40 minutes of drills before the game (he had me do to warm up) I was absolutely exhausted as I have not truly played soccer in 12 years! Once that was done I was laughing to myself that I had to actually go out and play a game now! As ugly as it may have been I did manage to score a goal and save face! 

Another key area of their club is for the Sunday rituals of “Churrasco” which we got to attend. The “Churrasco” is what the Brazilian’s call their bbq’s - definitely something you must attend at some point if the opportunity presents itself! I could not stop myself from eating each time they came by with a different skewer of meat fresh from the grill.




When we finished I went and passed out from food coma!  I believe maybe all the “Skol cerveja” (Brazilian beer) they kept pouring me may have added to the coma as well… luckily later Valdir took me to his good friend Ronaldo’s “Panificadora e Confeitaria” (bakery and coffee shop) for some good café to wake up!



What a good experience and memory to have heard and listened to Guilherme’s numerous stories about Maringa, Brazil and now to have actually lived the culture and some of the traditions he always mentioned. His family is awesome and made Jen and I feel at home.


I believe it may have been a bit overwhelming for Jen as she doesn’t speak any Portuguese and has never actually even heard the language spoken - other than a few phrases from me in the past and some songs. Five days of not really being able to communicate is definitely tough! She has learned an impressive amount over the last week and I’m proud of the courage she showed in trying. It was a great snap shot for our return to Brazil in February for 2 months. Now back to the Spanish speaking countries for awhile…

Tchau,

AA

Oi

We are on a bus right now, leaving Iguazu Falls and going to Maringa which is in Parana, Brazil. I should be studying right now – learning some of the Portuguese basics, but just like my students I’d much rather procrastinate when possible. We are so relieved to be in Brazil. It was a massive headache getting the visa to come here, and we were very nervous because we had only 90 days after the date of issue of the visa to use it. If we did not enter Brazil within 90 days (of August) then it would no longer be valid. But luckily everything worked out without too much difficulty and now as I type I am looking out the window at the beautiful countryside of Brazil. I feel a sense of culture-shock for the second time now. Argentina was the first time, but after 6 weeks there I got used to it and thanks to our great Spanish classes we know enough Spanish to say what we need to. But then we cross the border into Brazil and we’re back to ground zero. The currency here is called reais and the language is Portuguese. I got overwhelmed at the bus station, so many differences already. I went to use the bathroom and you must pay (they even have a security guard there), and then I went to the ATM to get some reais out (I can’t even pronounce the word reais yet), and I ended up doing a cash advance on my credit card, which I don’t know what that means but I’m pretty positive it involves extra fees, and then I went to buy some food for the 7 hour bus ride, but they make you order first in a separate area from the food, and then go pick it up. I barely know how to say hi in Portuguese (Oi), much less how to order us food (without just pointing to it). So I went back to AA, frustrated, and told him it was his job to get us some food. And that is why I should be studying Portuguese right now :-)

We are going to Maringa in order to meet the family of AA’s good friend Gui. We decided to go there now, instead of in February when we will be living in Brazil, because 1) we needed to get the visas stamped and 2) it’s pretty close to Iguazu Falls. The (long distance) buses here are awesome. Our last trip ended up being 20 hours on the bus, and it flew by and we were very comfortable. They served us a hot dinner and breakfast, played several movies (in English), and we had no problem sleeping. Today’s trip should go just as well and Gui’s mom and dad will be waiting for us at the bus station when we arrive. We are excited to meet his family and explore his hometown. We have no idea how long we’ll stay or what exactly we’ll do, but that’s the fun in being a vagabond, right??!!??!

It’s amusing to look out the window and watch all the small towns go by, imagining how different their lives must be. It makes me wonder and question what we really need in life to live and be happy. After observing for awhile I have noticed that I do not need a (clothes) dryer. I’m pretty sure hardly anybody in South America has a dryer – you see clothes hanging out to dry in practically every house. Washers, yes I do need a washer because doing it by hand was too much, haha, but a dryer I can probably do without. Cars – not needed here. As long as you have legs to walk and maybe a bike then that’s all you really need. The public transportation here is great and most of these towns are so small that you can walk from one end to another. Front porch – definitely needed here. Along with some friends or family to pass the time with while sitting on your porch, drinking mate, watching the clothes dry and world pass by. TV – I think that one is still a personal preference. I am surprised how many Direct TV dishes I see here, and big satellite dishes, but many people also do without. I could go either way. I guess basically for everybody, no matter where you are on this Earth, it comes down to having a roof over your head, food, friends and family, and a purpose in life. As I sit here and watch the towns go by I can’t help but to contemplate how different, but yet the same, my life is from these Brazilians.



I guess for me one of the difficulties I face while traveling is identifying what my purpose is. When I’m settled at home it’s easier to identify: to teach kids, contribute to society, be a good example of Christ, take care of my dogs, pay the bills, etc. Here it is harder for me because my purposes are to travel, explore, and grow. It helped in Buenos Aires when we were taking classes, because then I could identify my purpose as learning a new language. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel brainwashed to believe that tangible purposes hold more worth than intangible ones. I often overlook the main purpose of the trip – to press pause on life and fill up on God. Working towards God everyday is an invaluable and rewarding experience in itself. On top of that I feel so blessed to have this time to really learn who I am and who I want to be. AA and I are learning how to be partners to each other and how to provide what the other needs. A seed is being planted in my brain that perhaps the intangibles actually have more meaning.

Que Bueno

Our first experience to surfing ended up being 5 nights in Devoto (deh-boh-toh). That is a barrio about an hour outside downtown Buenos Aires. Not surfing in the way we initially think of surfing, but “Couch Surfing.” If you are not familiar with it a quick explanation of couch surfing is a network and website in which you create a profile and post it for other travelers to view in search for a place to stay or “couch surf.” Everyone with a profile is required to give certain information and whatever background info they want as well as list whether they have a floor, couch or bed to host. Surfers and hosts are in all parts of the world. You do need to have a few other “couch surfers” validate you to prove you’re not a lunatic before you can really get started. It is an excellent way to meet locals and learn more about their city, country and culture. Just be sure to not overstay your welcome and be sure to return the favor when you are home from your travels and someone is passing through.

Stepping off the subte (subway) and walking down the street to the isquina of Corrientes and Leandro N. Alem, Jen and I could feel the adrenaline start to pump and the nerves become more prevalent. We thought to ourselves, “Was this going to be a good experience? Awkward? Uncomfortable? Awesome? What if these guys are loco and want to kidnap us or try to harm us?” We had no idea who or what these people were really about and had just exchanged a few emails and one brief phone call. They seemed nice. After all, they said they were going to make us “home made pizza” that night.

We stood on the corner of the intersection studying several bystanders for the girlfriend of the couple’s house we were going to be staying at. It was nearly 5:30 and downtown BsAs was alive with the workday coming to an end. Hundreds of people determined to get home were racing in every direction to try and catch the next taxi, colectivo, or subte. I don’t believe anyone near to us missed the opportunity to curiously eye us both from head to toe. I’m not sure why as we couldn’t have stood out - Jenny and her two bags she travels with; one small backpack which carries both our necessities and then pulling her large bag behind on rollers (also transforms into an actual backpack, but is too heavy for her). Then me - wearing shorts, a t-shirt, my large red backpack, and to top it off my signature upside-down, backwards, visor!! Oh the wonders of what these “Portenos” thought as they walked by us! 

Scoping out the crowd for any possible matches of who we dreamed up emerged a very pleasant looking, bonita chica, with long hair wearing a light black coat and scarf. She began waving happily and smiled a warm comforting smile as she approached. I looked to “mi amor” Jen and I could see in her eyes she was already feeling much more secure. The person we had been waiting for arrived and did not even remotely resemble what the two of us wondrously imagined. We were greeted with “Hola, como estan?” and then she gave us each the customary Argentina kiss on our cheek. It was a refreshing feeling.


Waiting for the train to Devoto at Retiro station we were becoming somewhat anxious from the growing crowd gathering around the platform. It was our first time to ride a train here in BsAs and we quickly realized it was going to be quite adventurous. People were escaping the huge mass forming by jumping off the platform onto the rock where the tracks lie and crossing over to the other side to make boarding less of a competition for the approaching train. I looked over to Natalia after I realized what was happening in nervous anticipation of possibly not being able to board with our large backpacks. As we made eye contact I could see in her eyes she was thinking the same. Natalia told us when we got there it was the busiest time of the day besides morning as thousands of people use the train each day to make their commute to and from work downtown.

The train began to slow and before I even had the thought of boarding (because of the speed it still had) people in front of us and to the side of us began jumping into the stairwells of each car nearly being knocked violently back to the platform. All to ensure they had a spot on the train. Jen and I looked at each other in awe and then to Natalia. She glanced back at us speaking with her eyes that it was now or never. We knew exactly what we had to do next and that’s when the adrenaline pumped full force. Following Natalia’s lead, Jen tossed her big bag into the next stairwell simultaneously as we both quickly jumped from the platform.

As we road the rails the extremity became known when we saw people literally on the outside of the train holding on as it whistled down the tracks. They were packed in the stairwells with a few only having half of their foot on the bottom stair while gripping the handle bars (for boarding) to keep from falling off! I couldn’t comprehend that this one departure time was more important than waiting 60 minutes for the next train. One slip and that was it!


Staring out the windows wondering what was to come and thrilled with all the adventure so far (I speak for myself here) I began to witness the poorest areas I may have ever seen in my life. Passing by what must have been the slums of Buenos Aires. I could not believe my eyes. There were blocks and blocks and blocks of housing made from old pallets, plastic, scrap metal, tree branches, anything you could find along side the train tracks. Clothes lines were tied from the make shift roofs of these throw together shed houses to the fences that divided these communities from the tracks. Sheds in the U.S. are complete luxury compared to what was before my eyes. Huge bond fires of what looked to be trash and whatever could possibly burn were every few hundred feet with several people standing around them. A family outside their front doorway – as there was no door – sitting on buckets and old broken, thrown away chairs they must have discovered while eating from tables made from scrap pieces of wood and metal. It seemed as though they were content and enjoying the nice afternoon and didn’t even notice a train flying by less than 40 yards away. I fought back sorrow as I saw kids standing around wearing only old, dirty, raggedy underwear and filthy from head to toe. Wow, these people didn’t have electricity, running water, bathrooms or let alone ANYTHING really. All the housing was like a large Lego city made from trash and old junk connected from one home to the other as one long constant maze of a scrap city.

Several miles up the tracks from this community I peered out to see yet another city formed in the ruins of old brick buildings from 1 to 3 stories high. The poor inhabited these ruins and made homes out of them. Many of the small brick buildings had only few walls left and were hardly standing. The residents reinforced them with old boards wedged up from the ground at an angle. Windows were what came out of the large holes in the brick walls and sloped plastic tarps were used as roofs. Patios were created out of the floors where the brick only went up a couple feet.

In the middle of the ciudad de ruins must have been the nicest place to live. It was rectangular in shape and 3 floors up. The floor must have been designed into 2 identical squares side by side. The square and end wall on the 3rd floor facing me was no longer there – the brick remaining along that edge fluctuated between 1 and 2 feet tall. The roof of that half was no longer there as well. The family had made it into there patio/ deck and had strung a close line across attached to each of the two good walls. The mother was hanging clothes to dry and two small children were playing next to her. I could tell behind them in the other half of the rectangular floor must have been their one room of shelter. For what I had just been viewing for the last several minutes I thought this place actually looked quite comfortable and homey. They even had a good view!


That night around 10 pm sitting in the living room of the 1 bedroom apartment playing with Tobias (their 8 week old Golden Retriever) and growing hungrier by the minute the sound of a key jiggling the lock drew our attention and in walked Natalia’s boyfriend. It was a fun moment as the four of us were now together and it seemed all were at ease – especially Natalia now that Guido was home.

“You hungry?” he asked with a big friendly smile. Jen and I replied with smiles, a friendly nod and broken Spanish. Within a few minutes Guido was busy in the kitchen rolling out fresh dough for homemade pizza.


Little did Jen or I know that couch surfing could actually be the means for lifelong friends. I don’t think the thought ever even crossed our minds that we could become such good friends with people who agreed to host us. On the flip side – I’m not sure they had that thought surface either. The dynamic that grew among the 4 of us over the course of the next 5 days was simply incredible! It truly only took about one night for us all to click and feel extremely comfortable with each other. Jen and I both couldn’t believe the generosity, respect and trust they showed to us instantly. The first two nights they insisted we sleep in their room as they wanted to sleep in the living room on the loveseat. They claimed it was normal for them from watching movies late anyways. Despite our efforts of declining the offer they prevailed with every excuse imaginable and we finally had to accept. One of the days we came to the apartment early afternoon while they were still at work to find $50 pesos on the table with a note from them telling us to go buy ourselves some lunch. The generosity just kept coming...

In the short stay with Guido and Natalia we created many fun and meaningful memories. We had dinner each night, breakfast a few days, drank “Mate” several times (the cultural and traditional herbal tea of Argentina) which is something you do with family and friends – some days – for hours at a time.


We got a glimpse of their weekly routines by seeing Natalia come home from hockey practice one night with a friend and hanging out for a bit; taking a taxi across town one sunny afternoon to see Guido’s outdoor “futbol” game where he scored 3 goals because of excellent footwork.

We enjoyed a Saturday night with dinner at a restaurant on a rooftop patio followed by a few fun competitions of tennis at an arcade! Sat around and ate “helado” (ice-cream) I believe every five minutes!  They do love their ice-cream! We also went and saw Guido play in a “Baby” (bah-bee) tournament (5 v 5 soccer). It’s played on concrete with goals that are 7x10 and with a smaller, dense, soccer ball so it doesn’t bounce uncontrollably. It’s amazing to watch as it’s fast paced and has numerous goals and fancy footwork. For those of you who are familiar with futsal – it’s practically the same thing.


I was even lucky enough to experience a night out with Guido and his friends when he took me to an “Asado” (grill out), for one of his friend’s birthdays (Jen had movie night with Natalia). What a great time! Two friends of his picked us up and from that moment on I mainly sat back and just observed the conversations, games, laughs and stories while eating several selections of tasty meat! They honestly spoke SO fast it all sounded as if it was only a couple words with each sentence (maybe the alcohol got their blood flowing quicker)!  Guido took me under his wing and translated the whole time and was sure to introduce me to everyone. Each of his friends individually came up to greet me with the Argentine kiss on the side of the cheek. I truly felt honored.


It was an amazing experience to be in a room with people from a totally different culture celebrating, laughing, playing cards, drinking, telling stories and overall having a great time while all at the same time I really didn’t understand a word. I laughed a ton and just felt great to be able to see all of them in their element. They were really curious of me as I noticed all of them staring at me periodically throughout the night. A few would come up and try to talk with me – thank goodness we had Guido to translate!

Something very meaningful Jen and I got to do for them was add a painting to their back patio wall. It has become a wall of happiness for them and is now one large mural from different friends and family who have left their mark. We both new right away the marking we wanted to leave – the triangle. 1) God at the top with Guido and Natalia on each side – we believe the closer we get to Him the closer we’ll get to each other and the triangle is a perfect symbol of that. We saw the love in Guido and Natalia as a couple and wish only the best for their relationship and wanted to share a belief of ours. 2) We also wanted to represent where we are from – the United States of America. 3) We wanted to share the best definition for Love. It turned out great and we really enjoyed painting it!


We are happy to have left them something from our hearts they can view for years to come. Hopefully we will see them in Denver one day and can return the hospitality, respect, and graciousness they showed us.

Today we depart from Buenos Aires after 6 weeks here and are heading to Iguazu Falls. It’s been incredible and the Spanish is slowly improving.

Chau – AA