This past week my family from the U.S. came to visit me, and although it was full of some unexpected hiccups, it was amazing to show them the city I have come to know and love. As I have said in past posts, I have made a home here. At first I found myself in disbelief that my real family was finally seeing what I have been living. Likewise, now that they have returned home, they can have a visual of the city, my home, and a sense of my day-to-day.
One of my favorite moments of the week was having my real family meet my host family. It amazed me how much joy it brought me and also made me realize just how close I have become with my host family. I truly consider them to be an extension of the family I have. It was the best of both worlds. There was so much love in the room.... I was grinning ear to ear!
It was interesting to me that the first thing my host mom asked was if my family saw a difference in me. I did not really see that much of a difference in myself until they came. I have been taking for granted how well I know the city now and my ability to navigate without my guidebook or maps. Also, just the rhythm of life and living within this culture happened quite naturally for me. Of course I knew it would be different for my family, but I don't think I realized just how much I have come to embrace and live in the lifestyle here. I felt so blessed to be able to share what I have learned with my family and have a greater appreciation for just how much I have changed, in little and big ways.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sunday, October 14, 2012
My Argentina
The way in which I have become familiar with Argentina is very unique to who I am and it is equivalent to no other study abroad student's experience. This is something I love and treasure. We are all living in the same city, doing pretty much the "same" things, but when I really think about it we each are learning and internalizing the city through the scope of our own reality.
There have been many things my friends have called to my attention, that I was completely unaware of and likewise the reverse. One thing in particular I had heard before traveling here was argentine women were strong and independent, but my mind never ventured to what exactly that might mean. It was not until earlier last week on my walk to the Subte when I suddenly realized something about the women in not only my life, but in the lives of my friends as well. As I have mentioned we are staying with host family's and out of the five girls I am friends with, all of us live with single women, most with children. I am certain that this is not some rare coincidence. I have talked with others who live with one woman or a woman with her children. There are of course a good amount too with families, Dad included, but this phenomenon really struck me.
Also, on the flip side I have noticed the way men interact not only with one another, but with women, and with children here. It is so refreshing to see men openly giving love. I feel so many times at home there is not the openness to love freely on a day to day basis, especially between men. I understand that culturally Argentine's are more affectionate and outwardly apparent, but for me it is something a little deeper than that. I think it is something very interesting to observe as a foreigner. At first I thought to myself no that's not true, but throughout my time here I keep finding myself saying, "Wow, look at the way that man is with his child, or look at the care and attention he is paying to that women." To me, if you take notice, something is different than the norm you are used to.
I simply wanted to share this, and try to stray away from giving my opinion because it is just observation. Something that shook up my reality. I also didn't want to forget these sentiments that I once felt. In a way this blog is going to be my time capsule of events, memories, and reflections.
Un besooooooooo
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
So, its been a while....
Yes it has been a month. Or maybe more. I realize my enthusiasm at the start was very ambitious and now am going to try and take a different approach to this blog. With the remaining two months that I have I am going to blog about one thing perhaps every few days that shocks me, inspires me, astounds me, calls me to reflect, or something I just find funny in the city. I think this is more realistic than reviewing my days. Most times I can't even remember what day it is, let alone the sequence of events.
That being said I have traveled much since my last blog (Mendoza y Jujuy) and I find this country so varied. The Andes literally took my breathe away and to have the opportunity to see them in various parts of Argentina has been a gift.
Also, my spanish has reached a new level and I finally feel like my hard work is paying off. Light bulbs have been going off for the past week or two and it has to be one of the most exciting things that has happened to me here. To maneuver in the language and attain a level of auto-correction is a small accomplishment, but a rewarding one.
My host sister and I have also been able to get to know each other better and I love just sitting at the table doing homework with her. I feel I can really call her a sister.
Hopefully this new agreement with myself will hold true and I will write more frequently.
That being said I have traveled much since my last blog (Mendoza y Jujuy) and I find this country so varied. The Andes literally took my breathe away and to have the opportunity to see them in various parts of Argentina has been a gift.
Also, my spanish has reached a new level and I finally feel like my hard work is paying off. Light bulbs have been going off for the past week or two and it has to be one of the most exciting things that has happened to me here. To maneuver in the language and attain a level of auto-correction is a small accomplishment, but a rewarding one.
My host sister and I have also been able to get to know each other better and I love just sitting at the table doing homework with her. I feel I can really call her a sister.
Hopefully this new agreement with myself will hold true and I will write more frequently.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
First Day of Spring
Yesterday marked the first day of spring here in Buenos Aires and it was a beautifully refreshing day. The previous week was full of rain, a little bit of hail, and grey engulfed the city. Yesterday was also "Dia de los estudiantes" so students were off from school and everyone was outside enjoying the day. My friend and I spent the day in Palermo eating, shopping, and laughing. I am so blessed to have made friends here who I can consider family. It astounds me.
The past few weeks have been full of adventure. We went to Mendoza last weekend and it was the most breathtaking experience. I have always been in awe of nature, but the Andes actually took my breath away. I am sure I sounded like a broken record to my friends, but I couldn't help from saying, "This is unlike anything I have ever seen....guys are you looking at this?!"
When we are on the bus to Mendoza we spent the night on the bus and as we looked out the window all of our jaws dropped. The stars looked like they were under a magnifying glass. We so badly wished we could have gotten out of the bus to take in the night's sky completely, but we were perfectly satisfied to press our faces against the window to gaze upon the stars.
Mendoza was the perfect change of pace. It is still a city. It still has colectivos and somewhat busy streets, but life is slower. We were able to walk leisurely down the street and loosen up our up-tight Buenos Aires ways. From wine tours, to amazing food, to new friends the weekend was perfect from start to finish.
The past few weeks have been full of adventure. We went to Mendoza last weekend and it was the most breathtaking experience. I have always been in awe of nature, but the Andes actually took my breath away. I am sure I sounded like a broken record to my friends, but I couldn't help from saying, "This is unlike anything I have ever seen....guys are you looking at this?!"
When we are on the bus to Mendoza we spent the night on the bus and as we looked out the window all of our jaws dropped. The stars looked like they were under a magnifying glass. We so badly wished we could have gotten out of the bus to take in the night's sky completely, but we were perfectly satisfied to press our faces against the window to gaze upon the stars.
Mendoza was the perfect change of pace. It is still a city. It still has colectivos and somewhat busy streets, but life is slower. We were able to walk leisurely down the street and loosen up our up-tight Buenos Aires ways. From wine tours, to amazing food, to new friends the weekend was perfect from start to finish.
Monday, September 10, 2012
A New Normal
As per usual time has slipped out of my finger tips and I have been remiss in my blogging duties. So much has happened in these past few weeks I feel like it has been a lifetime since I let my fingers loose on my keyboard. From Tigre, to Colonia, Uruguay, to the many new friends I have made these past two weeks have be packed with tremendous experiences. Along with them came some high high's and some low points. The emotional roller-coaster of study abroad can be difficult, but with it comes a profound independence.
I was speaking with my host family at dinner last night and we were talking about how much I have grown in these two months. My host mother said that my family not even recognize me. And to be honest, in some ways that is very true. The experiences I have had here, the things I have done, the people I have met, and the personal obstacles I have overcome can never be put into words. My time here in BsAs thus far has been anything from a stereotypical American study abroad experience and I have worked hard to stay out of my comfort zone. That being said, as I continually challenge myself, I am changing at a rapid speed. My spanish has finally seen some substantial improvement and little by little my confidence is increased as well.
This past Sunday my friends and I went Konex, an old factory that is now similar to a convention center. There are various experiences, shows, etc that are put on there - some free some not. We took part in Un Dialogo en la Oscuridad. In this simulation we embarked on an hour long journey completely in the dark. The idea is to experience what life is like for a blind person living in Buenos Aires. We went to the park, crossed a busy street, went to a Kiosko and the market, and even took a boat ride. As we went through it was the most terrifying, wonderful experience. It is possible to have your eyes WIDE OPEN but pitch blackness surrounds you. You are given a long stick to feel around an help you, but that did not prevent me from running into walls, trees, and even a car. The last stop on the tour is a cafe. There we sat with our guide Lily and talked with her about her experiences as a blind woman working and living in BsAs. It was so incredible. There we were sitting in the dark, sharing in her life quite literally. At then end we were able to see her as we approached the light and it was a weird sensation. During the tour our other senses had become so hieghtened. I began to recognize the sent of my friends and sense when things were in front of me. I couldn't help but feel so blessed to have the gift of sight. We were blind for one hour. We pushed pause on our "real" lives for a short time. Lily has a different normal. A normal that she has learned to accept and overcome. Each one of us left with a new appreciation and admiration for Lily and all those without sight.
We are always creating new "normals" for ourselves. Why? Because normal is comfortable. Being ok with not being ok is something that I have always hoped to be ok with. Follow me? I believe my time so far in BsAs has shown me that nothing is normal for too long. We are constantly creating new norms for ourselves. For example, my morning routine here, what I do everyday, where I decide to eat, all these things are done with a normalcy in mind. Life is truly lived when I stray away from the "normal cafe" or the "normal walk home from the Subte." When I consciously, and even many times unconsciously, decide to create change I have had the most profound, unique experiences.
In fact, having made Argentine friends helps keep this exciting. I am amazed at the warmth of the people here. Some people argue that Argentines are cold and proud, but I would have to disagree. Even the other people from other parts of South America have commented on how different BsAs is from other cities in Latin America. And yes, of course it is different, but I have felt so much warmth from so many. The Argentine's I have met have patiently, kindly, and loving become not only my friend, but almost like family. I know that if I were to call one of them at anytime they would be willing to come to my side. This almost instantaneous closeness is something I have never experienced before. The are also so willing to listen to my awful Spanish as I attempt to carry on a conversation (probably sounding like a 7 year old!).
More to come soon!
Besos :)
I was speaking with my host family at dinner last night and we were talking about how much I have grown in these two months. My host mother said that my family not even recognize me. And to be honest, in some ways that is very true. The experiences I have had here, the things I have done, the people I have met, and the personal obstacles I have overcome can never be put into words. My time here in BsAs thus far has been anything from a stereotypical American study abroad experience and I have worked hard to stay out of my comfort zone. That being said, as I continually challenge myself, I am changing at a rapid speed. My spanish has finally seen some substantial improvement and little by little my confidence is increased as well.
This past Sunday my friends and I went Konex, an old factory that is now similar to a convention center. There are various experiences, shows, etc that are put on there - some free some not. We took part in Un Dialogo en la Oscuridad. In this simulation we embarked on an hour long journey completely in the dark. The idea is to experience what life is like for a blind person living in Buenos Aires. We went to the park, crossed a busy street, went to a Kiosko and the market, and even took a boat ride. As we went through it was the most terrifying, wonderful experience. It is possible to have your eyes WIDE OPEN but pitch blackness surrounds you. You are given a long stick to feel around an help you, but that did not prevent me from running into walls, trees, and even a car. The last stop on the tour is a cafe. There we sat with our guide Lily and talked with her about her experiences as a blind woman working and living in BsAs. It was so incredible. There we were sitting in the dark, sharing in her life quite literally. At then end we were able to see her as we approached the light and it was a weird sensation. During the tour our other senses had become so hieghtened. I began to recognize the sent of my friends and sense when things were in front of me. I couldn't help but feel so blessed to have the gift of sight. We were blind for one hour. We pushed pause on our "real" lives for a short time. Lily has a different normal. A normal that she has learned to accept and overcome. Each one of us left with a new appreciation and admiration for Lily and all those without sight.
We are always creating new "normals" for ourselves. Why? Because normal is comfortable. Being ok with not being ok is something that I have always hoped to be ok with. Follow me? I believe my time so far in BsAs has shown me that nothing is normal for too long. We are constantly creating new norms for ourselves. For example, my morning routine here, what I do everyday, where I decide to eat, all these things are done with a normalcy in mind. Life is truly lived when I stray away from the "normal cafe" or the "normal walk home from the Subte." When I consciously, and even many times unconsciously, decide to create change I have had the most profound, unique experiences.
In fact, having made Argentine friends helps keep this exciting. I am amazed at the warmth of the people here. Some people argue that Argentines are cold and proud, but I would have to disagree. Even the other people from other parts of South America have commented on how different BsAs is from other cities in Latin America. And yes, of course it is different, but I have felt so much warmth from so many. The Argentine's I have met have patiently, kindly, and loving become not only my friend, but almost like family. I know that if I were to call one of them at anytime they would be willing to come to my side. This almost instantaneous closeness is something I have never experienced before. The are also so willing to listen to my awful Spanish as I attempt to carry on a conversation (probably sounding like a 7 year old!).
More to come soon!
Besos :)
Thursday, August 30, 2012
An inward glance
As August comes to a close, I can't help but think back the past few weeks and compare them to what I would be doing if I was back in the states. My classmates at home are back at school, moving into their apartments, and beginning the semester. Here, school is already well underway and there was no grand move in for the year. Just me in my quaint, perfect little room in Palermo. There is something about not having an excess of things that I love. I don't have a booming wardrobe full of shoes, bags, and clothes. I don't have my usual cosmetics, laundry routine, or general things I deemed "necessary." Here, I have what I need, I buy what I need to replace, and that is all. There is something so liberating about having just what you need. You are no longer consumed with what you can have, could buy, or should get.
That being said, the people here, as I have sensed thus far and it is not to say all people are like this, but they do not look at you with judgmental eyes. I feel a sense of acceptance here that I have never felt before. A comfortability in my own skin that I have been unable to find in the states. I feel this also with the other students from the U.S. that are here. We are all here to learn, to grow, and experience this city. Therefore, there is no need for excess emotions (aka dramatic situations). They have not happened after six week and fingers crossed we will remain free of them.
I can feel, day by day, myself adapting a little here and there. From what I say, to what I wear, to what I think, to my overall state of mind it is evident the Argentines are rubbing off on me....and I don't mind :)
That being said, the people here, as I have sensed thus far and it is not to say all people are like this, but they do not look at you with judgmental eyes. I feel a sense of acceptance here that I have never felt before. A comfortability in my own skin that I have been unable to find in the states. I feel this also with the other students from the U.S. that are here. We are all here to learn, to grow, and experience this city. Therefore, there is no need for excess emotions (aka dramatic situations). They have not happened after six week and fingers crossed we will remain free of them.
I can feel, day by day, myself adapting a little here and there. From what I say, to what I wear, to what I think, to my overall state of mind it is evident the Argentines are rubbing off on me....and I don't mind :)
Sunday, August 26, 2012
New York, New York
This post is long overdue and I cannot believe so much time has passed in between posts, but my life here in Buenos Aires went from busy to hectic to warp speed. I was skyping with my family and I said to them, "I miss myself!" I was going from class to class, from one part of the city to the next, that by the time I would arrive home, eat, catch up with my host family, I couldn't keep my eyes open. So much has happened that I will not rehash every detail, but I will mention a few of my favorite things we have done these past two weeks. And I promise myself, and all those loyal followers (especially you Mr. Arrow) that I will be more diligent.
Some stories....
The other day (no I realize it was about two weeks ago) I had finished class for the day and decided to make the long trek home. The Subte was still out of commission, so to the buses I went. Passing line after line I made the executive decision to walk home. I had never done this before, but on this particular day I knew I would make it home faster walking than waiting for a colectivo. I began to walk, map in hand, and put on my headphones as usual. I love walking through the city with my own personal soundtrack. Some days it is upbeat, others low key, and some days a shuffle. This particular day I just hit play and listened to whatever song came on. I reached Santa Fe (a large street, well-known, which stretches pretty far). I knew I still had about 20 to 25 minutes to go, but I trudged on. As I walked the theme song from New York, New York came on by Frank Sinatra. I couldn't help but start to smile as I listened intently to each sweetly sung word. I realize now the people I passed on the street must have thought I was crazy. Literally.
New York, New York
I want to wake up in that city That never sleeps And find I'm king of the hill Top of the list Head of the heap King of the hill
These are little town blues
They have all melted away
I am about to make a brand new start of it
Right there in old New York
Buenos Aires, Argentina has become my New York, New York. It was an overwhelming feeling as I walked home. A feeling of complete contentment, a feeling of comfortability, a feeling of falling in love, and a feeling great awe and thanksgiving for where I was. Everyday as I step out into this city I am aware of what an incredible gift I have been given.
That being said my friends and I have now become well acquainted with navigating the city and decided we needed a day of fresh, so we headed to Tigre! A 45 minute train ride from the city we found ourselves in the quaintest little town located on a beautiful river. We made a beautiful day for ourselves. The weather as well was picturesque. Clear skies, sun, and HEAT! For the first time we peeled off our jackets and were comfortable in T-shirts. We had a great lunch, I ordered Sorrentinos which were scrumptious as usual and we laughed, drank, and ate for three hours! After we did some walking and took a boat tour. A series of rivers connects this town and river side houses line the series of canals. Afterward we went to the art museum and admired the architecture. The building itself was breathtaking and we honestly had more fun on the huge terrace then pondering the paintings inside. After a full day we headed home, sun kissed and relaxed.
More stories to come! Its 2 am here and I have to catch up on homework tomorrow, so off to bed I go. Buenas noches a todos. Besitos :)
Some stories....
The other day (no I realize it was about two weeks ago) I had finished class for the day and decided to make the long trek home. The Subte was still out of commission, so to the buses I went. Passing line after line I made the executive decision to walk home. I had never done this before, but on this particular day I knew I would make it home faster walking than waiting for a colectivo. I began to walk, map in hand, and put on my headphones as usual. I love walking through the city with my own personal soundtrack. Some days it is upbeat, others low key, and some days a shuffle. This particular day I just hit play and listened to whatever song came on. I reached Santa Fe (a large street, well-known, which stretches pretty far). I knew I still had about 20 to 25 minutes to go, but I trudged on. As I walked the theme song from New York, New York came on by Frank Sinatra. I couldn't help but start to smile as I listened intently to each sweetly sung word. I realize now the people I passed on the street must have thought I was crazy. Literally.
New York, New York
I want to wake up in that city That never sleeps And find I'm king of the hill Top of the list Head of the heap King of the hill
These are little town blues
They have all melted away
I am about to make a brand new start of it
Right there in old New York
Buenos Aires, Argentina has become my New York, New York. It was an overwhelming feeling as I walked home. A feeling of complete contentment, a feeling of comfortability, a feeling of falling in love, and a feeling great awe and thanksgiving for where I was. Everyday as I step out into this city I am aware of what an incredible gift I have been given.
That being said my friends and I have now become well acquainted with navigating the city and decided we needed a day of fresh, so we headed to Tigre! A 45 minute train ride from the city we found ourselves in the quaintest little town located on a beautiful river. We made a beautiful day for ourselves. The weather as well was picturesque. Clear skies, sun, and HEAT! For the first time we peeled off our jackets and were comfortable in T-shirts. We had a great lunch, I ordered Sorrentinos which were scrumptious as usual and we laughed, drank, and ate for three hours! After we did some walking and took a boat tour. A series of rivers connects this town and river side houses line the series of canals. Afterward we went to the art museum and admired the architecture. The building itself was breathtaking and we honestly had more fun on the huge terrace then pondering the paintings inside. After a full day we headed home, sun kissed and relaxed.
More stories to come! Its 2 am here and I have to catch up on homework tomorrow, so off to bed I go. Buenas noches a todos. Besitos :)
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