So I’ll begin on Sunday evening after my usual massive feast of arroz con pollo no podemos olvidar las papas =) and 2 hour nap… sounds a bit ruff I know. I went to Chosica again with my sister for mass, but when we got there we pulled a George Henry (Told mom we were going but instead went out to eat) Met up with Roxanna, my cuñada, (sister in law) and the amigos of my older brother (who lives in Spain for work… very common here, at least from what I’ve heard) and we went to get some chelas (beers/cervezas) and to karaoke. I wanted to leave at about 11ish but I def don’t think Consuelo wanted me to ruin her time… as the hour hand clicked to 2 am and my eyes were burning a hole through her head, she and I decided it was time to go. No really, if looks could kill, I think I’d be up for murder in Peru. And I know most of you are saying, why didn’t you just leave or just tell her you need to go, that would be the American thing/obvious way to go about this situation, but you all have filters my friends. ((If the Corps had any one word as its slogan I would go with Filters. If I had a penny for everytime someone mentioned that word in training, I could double my salary. =) YAY 16 soles a day…no really, my salary is 8 soles a day in training which is mas o menos $2.50. Sweet, right?)) Back to the story though, an American woman on a bus travelling home anytime past 10 is never a good idea, never. Also, I did tell her, but to her and her friends, time is irrelevant, especially because she doesn’t get up in the mornings/afternoon until 1ish, where as I have to get up at 6:30. So upon leaving I pulled out the “act like a 5 yr old, silent treatment card” …I think she got the hint that this was not acceptable for me for next time. But all is well in the Pastor household, I just mentioned something to her on Monday about it and she understood. This week was probably the fastest one, it flew by. I can’t believe I’ve been here three weeks. School is the same almost everyday, we get tested again on Thursday for language skills, so we’ll see if I learned anything. Personally, I think they’re asking a bit much… lol just kidding.
All during training, we have these notebooks and one of them is dedicated to “Our Favorite Person.” About twice a week, we add onto the story about the person, whether it’s made-up or real. Everyone picked someone very close to them, a best friend, a parent, an ex-boy/girl friend, a bf/gf, a grandparent, do you get where I’m going with this?? Well, the next day when we read our paragraphs, or our teacher did, everyone got a good laugh from my person, and who did I pick you ask?? Mr. JT, yes, I did write about Justin Timberlake. (Pause…I know you all are dying laughing) Hey, what can I say, the man is amazing, I mean I write about him and I travelling and him calling me, working out together. I guess its pretty pathetic on paper, but I mean you can take me out of the states and put me in this amazing selfless organization and hope I can do something, but you can never take away my childlike adoration and love for *NSync and JT… the best. I’m still convinced that on his next world tour he’ll come to Peru. I mean, I even thought about writing to his fan club to put in a request for him to hold a concert here. Naturally, I did no such thing, but the thought def has passed across my mind a few times…
So on to more serious and thought provoking topics, like having volunteers throughout Peru, come to our sessions to talk about their experiences and communities. It’s been a great resource and learning tool for me and I’m sure for all the other aspirantes to have them come. We’ve learned about making soy milk and peanut butter, received cooked books, how to disinfect our water, vegetables and meat, the best way to travel to our sites and when, what medicines work for what and what not to do in certain situations, we learned its better to lie and tell the person we are going to the party and then not go, so you don’t hurt their feelings. Also, they won’t notice that you didn’t show up =)
On Thursday we went to a Institute 20 minutes away from the center. It is very similar to a Vo-Tech school in the states. I believe that’s what we call them at least. They had three majors or concentrations there, mechanics, nursing, computers. The place was really small; the students ranged from ages of 15 to a student in my group who is 42 yrs old. The variety was helpful though, because we worked on a marketing plan with them and the experience of others worked with the creativity of the younger students. Most of the groups decided on food or artisan stands. I was in a group with 2 other business aspirantes, Ken and Chris. Our group decided to do a typing service, since we mostly had computer students. Sometimes I just get so frustrated with the seemingly lack of innovation. I mean what seems so obvious to me, isn’t to others. For instance, we had 8 groups and there were about 3 volunteers with each group of 5 students; the assignment was to come up with a business and then do a FODA for our business. My problem with these groups was that each one wanted to do a restaurant. How is that feasible?? When on every corner is another freakin restaurant, with the same food. When I say same I mean exactly down to the prices. So odd, it’s like putting in another bodega in town. My town has about 10 bodegas for a population similar to Sea Isle in winter minus 200. And again, they all sell the same exact thing. It’s just their culture. And though I’m weeks into it, still baffled. The more I think about it, I really want to help them create a service that is a need for people, not so much a store of convenience for them. I know, who am I to say these bold statements about their culture, and you’re right, I need to really assess what’s going on in their culture before I diagnosis it. Well, back to the assignment. So initially my group was gung-ho about starting a food business. So naturally, I pointed out the non-obvious fact that every group was doing either food or artisan products and shouldn’t we think of something else. I asked them what their skills were and think of a business using utilizing them. It quickly occurred to them that they knew how to do accounting and how to use computers. Therefore the group came up with the idea of having a typing service for local businesses to bring their books and they would type them up for a fee. I think they did a great job. I was just happy that I wasn’t do an “Original Peruvian Food” restaurant.
Later that night, I was laying in my bed and I heard this noise, it was def something alive and moving in my room. I actually was like maybe I imagined this, unfortunately I didn’t. But I’ve come to terms with the fact that when you hear a noise sometimes its better not to find out what it is… Plus the fact that I think I killed a whole family of these massive locus bugs that Peru has (mix between a grasshopper and death) therefore I think the distance relative is coming for me… yes at night I do make these stories up in my head. In the end I saw a figure moving in my trash bag… so I ran over tied the bag shut and just hoped whatever it was will die. Here’s hoping.
Friday was a fun day at the center; we did a lot of activities and games, for more team unity. After, I went with a few people for Pizza and beer. Good taste of home. And just like the price of pizza is rising at home, it’s rising here. It wasn’t cheap! And I finished off dinner with my FAV snack… beso de moza. It is a marshmallow on top of a graham cracker then covered in chocolate, basically a pre-made smore and positively amazing.
Saturday all of the aspirantes went to the University of Agraria in Lima. There we learned how to start our own garden and what types of fruits and vegetables we can grow and where they will thrive. We also learned the different techniques for planting seeds, also, how to transplant. I have a few pics of me from the Univ. up, in them I am planting Crispy Lettuce…Not really sure what made it so crispy haha yes, I’m that corny. After, a few of us headed out to Surco, a district of Lima. There we ate at, where else, but TGIFridays. Where, surprisingly they all spoke English! We ate at Jockey Plaza, what we call a Mall. This is a huuuuge mall,I think it’s even bigger than KOP. But we just ate and hung out. PS that area is loaded. The house are huge and people are dressed head to toe designer. I was eating with Shannon, Sophie, Jon, and Ken. We made a pact that every year (well, the next two) we will meet up on the 28th of Junio have dinner and celebrate “American Day.” Ha It just occurred to me that only an American would be conceited enough to create American Day. We headed home in a taxi and jammed out to the American music, the taxista had satellite radio, go figure. When I got back, the Corazon de Jesus fiesta was going on. I wish I took a pic to show you, but basically there was a huge, huge, huge statute that had fire works shooting off of it and in the end we lit it on fire. It was insane.
Today, Sunday, I was supposed to go to Chosica again for Ceviche but I gave up I don’t feel like moving, only sleeping. I’mconstantly exhausted. I beginning to hate the feeling. Oh yeh I went on a run today. I was going to run on the school rec field like I usually do, but the boys were playing futbol and wouldn’t let me on it. So I ran at the lower level on this area that I will just label, a dirt patch. If you could see this, I think you would die…lol It was more of a work-out to dodge the dog-poop and random massive rocks that the running was!! Dad, I kept thinking of you and your “affection” for dogs, you would of died, really you would of. I would challenge any animal lover to spend a few weeks in Peru and I promise you, you will leave hating those awful animals called dogs. I know, I didn’t like in America that much so why did I think it would get worse, no idea. But it is worse now, and God forgive me for saying this, most of the time, even when they aren’t bothering me, I still want to throw stones at them =) Although my “track” wasn’t that good the view was amazing. Because, I live on a mountain, I was looking down on the whole town, so cool. Well, I do have more to write, however I think my fingers are cramped. So… Chaufis! MUAH! Xoxo
ekh
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Me and Ken at the Ag University... go figure... I learned how to keep a gardin.. though I do have a bit of experience (veggie garden at the shore... missing dads tomatoes!!!) Here Ii´m planting lettuce after this we went into the fields and hoed... is that how I should spell it lol... again go figure ha
Pics below are...
Frist is a group photo of the SBD (small business development group in front of a place we went for a charla.. basically a ¨talk¨for lack of a better word...regarding small business opportunities for associations aroudn Lima. Basically for corporations to produce there products using local labor or obras de manos
Second... is in front of a house of another aspirante (trainee) for her bday... I´m in purple.. obvio
Third... I foudn another dead animal lol also that is mas o menos a life gaurd tower
Frist is a group photo of the SBD (small business development group in front of a place we went for a charla.. basically a ¨talk¨for lack of a better word...regarding small business opportunities for associations aroudn Lima. Basically for corporations to produce there products using local labor or obras de manos
Second... is in front of a house of another aspirante (trainee) for her bday... I´m in purple.. obvio
Third... I foudn another dead animal lol also that is mas o menos a life gaurd tower
Friday, June 27, 2008
…continue
I forgot to mention that I did also make something else for my family…Thanksgiving sweet potatoes!!! They were delicioso!! I had to call mom in order to remember the very simple directions…but I just wanted to make sure!!! I’ve been getting everyone’s letters thank you sooo much!! As far as other things go… I have a language test next week to see where I move to next, like to a different level… Jueves I have a field trip to a local institute where we will be teaching basic business and marketing skills to a class and then running a semi-simulation on a product. But as always the directions are pretty vague so I guess I’ll know what’s going on, when it’s going on.
I forgot to mention that I did also make something else for my family…Thanksgiving sweet potatoes!!! They were delicioso!! I had to call mom in order to remember the very simple directions…but I just wanted to make sure!!! I’ve been getting everyone’s letters thank you sooo much!! As far as other things go… I have a language test next week to see where I move to next, like to a different level… Jueves I have a field trip to a local institute where we will be teaching basic business and marketing skills to a class and then running a semi-simulation on a product. But as always the directions are pretty vague so I guess I’ll know what’s going on, when it’s going on.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
25 Junio 2008
Sorry I haven´t written in a while, Ive been busy catching up on emails, rest, and homework!!! I went to Lima this weekend and had some great ceviche (The Peruvian national dish bascally). It is raw fish cooked in lime juice... my dish was with a salsa rosa much like the same we use over pasta or my fav tortellini (mom don´t kill me if I misspelled that!!) Then on Sunday I did homework all day a little exercise and then I went to Church and to Chosica a town nearby and went out on the town with my sister and my brothers friends. Which makes me feel home, the whole hanging out with your brothers friends! (btw: oh how I miss hanging out with brenton and georgie and their friends!!) You all would have a ball here! This week has gone by liek a blur. Yesterday we had a field trip to Ventanilla (a local beach town). Basically the SBD group went to assess the community and types of organizaciones it had as well as its municipalidad. That was great and then we got the chance to walk on the beach which I love. These are the pictures I am trying to upload now but to no avail. Soo frustrating that this internet is soo slow it takes forever to upload one pic!! Then today I basically went to language class, my professor fractured his leg so he wasn´t there but we merged with another class. Then in the afternoon we had a marketing strategy project for liek an hour. That was interesting because we basically were told the strategies we use in the US were def not going to work here and we had to think small, simple, and little start up costs. So there goes the mass producing and packaging as well as exportation lol... Tonight, I bought some ground beef adn a type of chili mix and made my favorite meal for my family (more or less) believe it or not Peru does not have kidney beans que lastima!! Okay well my time is up.. I will go home and write more in-detail save on a disk and up-load tomorrow!!
xoxo ekh
Sorry I haven´t written in a while, Ive been busy catching up on emails, rest, and homework!!! I went to Lima this weekend and had some great ceviche (The Peruvian national dish bascally). It is raw fish cooked in lime juice... my dish was with a salsa rosa much like the same we use over pasta or my fav tortellini (mom don´t kill me if I misspelled that!!) Then on Sunday I did homework all day a little exercise and then I went to Church and to Chosica a town nearby and went out on the town with my sister and my brothers friends. Which makes me feel home, the whole hanging out with your brothers friends! (btw: oh how I miss hanging out with brenton and georgie and their friends!!) You all would have a ball here! This week has gone by liek a blur. Yesterday we had a field trip to Ventanilla (a local beach town). Basically the SBD group went to assess the community and types of organizaciones it had as well as its municipalidad. That was great and then we got the chance to walk on the beach which I love. These are the pictures I am trying to upload now but to no avail. Soo frustrating that this internet is soo slow it takes forever to upload one pic!! Then today I basically went to language class, my professor fractured his leg so he wasn´t there but we merged with another class. Then in the afternoon we had a marketing strategy project for liek an hour. That was interesting because we basically were told the strategies we use in the US were def not going to work here and we had to think small, simple, and little start up costs. So there goes the mass producing and packaging as well as exportation lol... Tonight, I bought some ground beef adn a type of chili mix and made my favorite meal for my family (more or less) believe it or not Peru does not have kidney beans que lastima!! Okay well my time is up.. I will go home and write more in-detail save on a disk and up-load tomorrow!!
xoxo ekh
Friday, June 20, 2008
Two posts, One day... niice
I figured I would say hello again, because of the multiple (cough cough) emails I have received requesting that I update my old blog (mind you-4 days old info). Okay well what has gone on since what Monday or Tuesday did that entry end?? Classes are increasing in interest and fun everyday. We get to do these FODAs (SWOT) and analyses of the neighborhood we live in. Which is cool, because we came up with some excellent ideas... basicalmente puting weakness with opportunities to formulate a project to do for the next three months! Oh so also pretty cool is the fact that me get to go to another department (state) for a week and do a business simulation with a local business school. We´ll be working with 20-25 year olds, teaching them marketing, finance, accounting, project planning and organization, formulated creative business opportunities, and execution. So that will be in mid-July! Que mas...
Oh it was another person´s birthday last night so we all went to his house (coincidentally I live 2 house down..literally down hill ha.. from him). Yeh, I´m really corny sorry. So that was a lot of fun because it was a chance for all of us to get together! But the cool thing about my town is that when we all get together we bring our brothers and sisters so we (gringos) have to speak spanish the whole time. So it´s just better than falling into english anytime you´re around eachother.
Sorry about my grammar and spelling, most of the time, I´m writing this in a quick second because time on the computer is little and expensive. Plus the fact that everytime I have to go on I have about 100 things to do so I really don´t look forward to it.
Oh, I´m running for secretary of my group, not of like Peru 11, but for the general assembly during our time in training. So maybe I´ll win, I mean with only two weeks in, it´s kind of like a popularity contest. Oh man, now that I told you I´m going to feel like an even bigger loser if I lose!!
Okay my minutes are up... Love you all
ekh xoxo
A view from the top of the mountain..
I ran up the mountain sunday morning to take this picture..
One of the only mornings there was no neblina.. (massive fog)
I haev a video too.. but I haven´t figured out how to upload it
16 Junio 2008
16 Junio 2008
Bueno!
Okay so I think I know where I left off…Saturday right? Okay well if not, I am about to tell you about it anyway and skip the other stuff! Oh wait I went to a fiesta on Friday night, it was the 24th bday of one of the girls in my group. Okay so Saturday I did my homework (tarea) in the morning and then in the afternoon my sister (Consuelo) took me to Chosica to buy a HolaPeru! Card so I can call mis padres and also to buy some copies of the photos I’ve taken to mail back (and keep for myself). I decided I’m going to wait till I can fill up a cd and then mail that home that way I have them all saved on my comp, my external hard drive and sent home in a hard copy jic (just in case). This girl came in to talk to us and told us about her laptop getting stolen at an artisan’s fair and she lost 6000 pics. I would die, as most of you know I live with a camera attached to my eye. Oh, and while I was in Chosica I had a Churro (deep fried sugared donut thing with carmel con leche in the center!!!!) I know I’m not supposed to eat of the street but I couldn’t resist!! Could you?
So despues eso I came back and watched the Peru vs Columbia game on tv with my family. (It was a tie 1-1) I don’t know if you Americans know but the tourney for the world cup is in progress and a very big thing down here. Also, I finally got to talk to the fam <33 Brent way to be with the Holaaaa ME LLAMO BRENT… youre insane and were a bit drunk lol Georgie it was great talking to you too!! I miss lacosta happy hour!! Mom and Dad don’t worry about the number I think I figured it out, I’ll email you later. I bet you all had a great skimmer weekend/father’s day!!
So speaking of which, Father’s Day, I called dad in the morning and then climbed up my mountain to read and write in my journal. I took a video of the view I will attempt to have the patience to DL when I upload this to the internet. (I am breathing heavily bc I just ran up the mountain so don’t mind that too much) After the mountain I laid out on my roof and continued to read the book Aunt Kathy gave to me the day before I left Eat Pray Love, I highly recommend this book (para las mujeres). Oh greatest story ever. So in the towns in Peru they have trucks and cars that drive up and down the mountain with fresh products that aren’t available in the local bodegas, like fruits, potatoes, and ….fish. It hadn’t occurred to me yet what they were for because I didn’t listen to the message. Then on Sunday my mom walked to one of the screaming cars and bought something. The guy went to the truck and proceeded to cut the fish up right in his trunk and gave the pieces in a bad to my mom. And my thought process, allrriight looks like I’m eating that for lunch hahaa… It was a type of white fish used in a traditional Peruvian dish called escabeche. Muy delicioso! After lunch, I slept for a bit then got ready to go to church with my sister. We went to mass at 7 in Chosica. There are a few things I found weird, The people don’t dress up here, everyone was in jeans… of course I wore kakis, a blouse, and blazer. Also, I didn’t receive because here you need to confess before you receive. And personally I think I need to learn the language a little bit better before I start whipping out my dictionary to try to tell my sins. Haha. Oh que mas… oh after we just hung out with Consuelo’s boyfriend Martin in town… And I ate cow’s heart… yep, off the street. No worries, I’m still kicking. (Aunt Ba I can see you dying right now haha) I figured it can’t be bad to have two hearts in you... there’s no such thing as too much love… haha After this, la cuñada de Consuelo met up with us with 2 of her guy friends and we went out to a bar then a karaoke bar. Yeh… I sang… badly… As it was getting later and later, of course I was like “don’t be a puss liz, stay out, don’t look like a nerd.” So I lasted till about 2 and then I told Consuelo I needed to go since I had to get up at 6:30 and she didn’t have to till 1. So we left I fell into a deep sleep and woke up to a nice hot shower!!
School was excellent. I’m really having a much better time adjusting than I had expected. However I’m very wary of the let down that is bound to happen. Everything is on a bell-curve here and I’m thinking I’m at the top… Hopefully I can plateau for a few weeks at this level... or a couple years lol!! I really do love it here and all the people in my barrio are becoming close friends. Also, I had an interview with my APCD today (basically mi jefe) about where I want to be located and what amenities I want. Like bathroom inside or outside, toilet or latrine… 20 min from a city or 10 hours ya know the basics lol. So I told him what I felt and that I would like not to fall into my poop in the middle of the night if IWas walking outside. Electricity is a must, internet... not so much. If I’m not an hour from the city I would like an hour from another volunteer. I would like a more open minded community because I am a woman with a very strong personality and I wouldn’t deal too well with really negative reactions to women in power. However this is extremely rare and not prevalent through out Peru. I asked for a hot climate either desert or coastal, however if they felt I would do better somewhere else; feel free to approach me with the option. I mean I don’t think they actually care that much but who knows well see I just know I can’t be in a rain and cold site, winter depression hits hard.
Also we had this challenge today where they gave us 8 ingredients; Potatoes, Tomatoes, Onions, Eggs, Salt, Oregano, Lime, and Sugar
I was able to create 3 meals 3 drinks and 1 dessert! Chevere, no? Its all those days of watching top chef lol!!
All for now…
Bueno!
Okay so I think I know where I left off…Saturday right? Okay well if not, I am about to tell you about it anyway and skip the other stuff! Oh wait I went to a fiesta on Friday night, it was the 24th bday of one of the girls in my group. Okay so Saturday I did my homework (tarea) in the morning and then in the afternoon my sister (Consuelo) took me to Chosica to buy a HolaPeru! Card so I can call mis padres and also to buy some copies of the photos I’ve taken to mail back (and keep for myself). I decided I’m going to wait till I can fill up a cd and then mail that home that way I have them all saved on my comp, my external hard drive and sent home in a hard copy jic (just in case). This girl came in to talk to us and told us about her laptop getting stolen at an artisan’s fair and she lost 6000 pics. I would die, as most of you know I live with a camera attached to my eye. Oh, and while I was in Chosica I had a Churro (deep fried sugared donut thing with carmel con leche in the center!!!!) I know I’m not supposed to eat of the street but I couldn’t resist!! Could you?
So despues eso I came back and watched the Peru vs Columbia game on tv with my family. (It was a tie 1-1) I don’t know if you Americans know but the tourney for the world cup is in progress and a very big thing down here. Also, I finally got to talk to the fam <33 Brent way to be with the Holaaaa ME LLAMO BRENT… youre insane and were a bit drunk lol Georgie it was great talking to you too!! I miss lacosta happy hour!! Mom and Dad don’t worry about the number I think I figured it out, I’ll email you later. I bet you all had a great skimmer weekend/father’s day!!
So speaking of which, Father’s Day, I called dad in the morning and then climbed up my mountain to read and write in my journal. I took a video of the view I will attempt to have the patience to DL when I upload this to the internet. (I am breathing heavily bc I just ran up the mountain so don’t mind that too much) After the mountain I laid out on my roof and continued to read the book Aunt Kathy gave to me the day before I left Eat Pray Love, I highly recommend this book (para las mujeres). Oh greatest story ever. So in the towns in Peru they have trucks and cars that drive up and down the mountain with fresh products that aren’t available in the local bodegas, like fruits, potatoes, and ….fish. It hadn’t occurred to me yet what they were for because I didn’t listen to the message. Then on Sunday my mom walked to one of the screaming cars and bought something. The guy went to the truck and proceeded to cut the fish up right in his trunk and gave the pieces in a bad to my mom. And my thought process, allrriight looks like I’m eating that for lunch hahaa… It was a type of white fish used in a traditional Peruvian dish called escabeche. Muy delicioso! After lunch, I slept for a bit then got ready to go to church with my sister. We went to mass at 7 in Chosica. There are a few things I found weird, The people don’t dress up here, everyone was in jeans… of course I wore kakis, a blouse, and blazer. Also, I didn’t receive because here you need to confess before you receive. And personally I think I need to learn the language a little bit better before I start whipping out my dictionary to try to tell my sins. Haha. Oh que mas… oh after we just hung out with Consuelo’s boyfriend Martin in town… And I ate cow’s heart… yep, off the street. No worries, I’m still kicking. (Aunt Ba I can see you dying right now haha) I figured it can’t be bad to have two hearts in you... there’s no such thing as too much love… haha After this, la cuñada de Consuelo met up with us with 2 of her guy friends and we went out to a bar then a karaoke bar. Yeh… I sang… badly… As it was getting later and later, of course I was like “don’t be a puss liz, stay out, don’t look like a nerd.” So I lasted till about 2 and then I told Consuelo I needed to go since I had to get up at 6:30 and she didn’t have to till 1. So we left I fell into a deep sleep and woke up to a nice hot shower!!
School was excellent. I’m really having a much better time adjusting than I had expected. However I’m very wary of the let down that is bound to happen. Everything is on a bell-curve here and I’m thinking I’m at the top… Hopefully I can plateau for a few weeks at this level... or a couple years lol!! I really do love it here and all the people in my barrio are becoming close friends. Also, I had an interview with my APCD today (basically mi jefe) about where I want to be located and what amenities I want. Like bathroom inside or outside, toilet or latrine… 20 min from a city or 10 hours ya know the basics lol. So I told him what I felt and that I would like not to fall into my poop in the middle of the night if IWas walking outside. Electricity is a must, internet... not so much. If I’m not an hour from the city I would like an hour from another volunteer. I would like a more open minded community because I am a woman with a very strong personality and I wouldn’t deal too well with really negative reactions to women in power. However this is extremely rare and not prevalent through out Peru. I asked for a hot climate either desert or coastal, however if they felt I would do better somewhere else; feel free to approach me with the option. I mean I don’t think they actually care that much but who knows well see I just know I can’t be in a rain and cold site, winter depression hits hard.
Also we had this challenge today where they gave us 8 ingredients; Potatoes, Tomatoes, Onions, Eggs, Salt, Oregano, Lime, and Sugar
I was able to create 3 meals 3 drinks and 1 dessert! Chevere, no? Its all those days of watching top chef lol!!
All for now…
Friday, June 13, 2008
12 Junio 2008
12 Junio 2008
Hello to all!!
Mom, I got your email and don’t worry I am fine! I hope the past two entries held you all over for a tad. I thought it was a bit extensive (and really self-centered) but I figured I owed many of you at least some description of my day-to-day activity. It is 8:15 on Thursday night and believe it or not, I am tired againn. I swear it just won’t stop. We had Mission Impossible today in Chosica. (A near-by city to where I live) We had to identify the differences between formal and informal markets (mercados abiertos y cerrados). After determining the main differences, my partner and I had to come up with a business combining the best of all and most importantly ensure that the business was self-sustainable. This is a key word or the main theme in the PCT language. SELF SUSTAINABILITY. Que mas…
When I came home, I tried to call a few people but the lines in my town are broken. Therefore when I head to el centro tomorrow (Today by the time I post this) I will call a few ppl. Oh lol, when I was leaving the internet café on my street I had the little kids running at me yelling GRINGA GRINGA (kinda cute bc it was in a sing-songy way) For all you ppl who don’t know… Americans are gringos. This stems from when Americans had green uniforms and would go into different countries in Latin/South America the people would yell Green Go! Meaning- Go Home! Therefore, we now have the fond reference of gringo. (Gringa for las mujeres)
Oh, I really want to show you where I live, like my town and my house, but I don’t know whether or not it is rude to walk around my house videotaping. I’m trying to find a time where no one is home, but they’re always home when I am. Que Lastima! I do have a few pics of my room and my town that I have figured out how to DL onto my external hard drive (thanks Geo and Brent). Now, the mission is to find an internet café with enough speed to DL my pics and not take an hour.
Hasta Manana… Descanse Bien.
E
Hello to all!!
Mom, I got your email and don’t worry I am fine! I hope the past two entries held you all over for a tad. I thought it was a bit extensive (and really self-centered) but I figured I owed many of you at least some description of my day-to-day activity. It is 8:15 on Thursday night and believe it or not, I am tired againn. I swear it just won’t stop. We had Mission Impossible today in Chosica. (A near-by city to where I live) We had to identify the differences between formal and informal markets (mercados abiertos y cerrados). After determining the main differences, my partner and I had to come up with a business combining the best of all and most importantly ensure that the business was self-sustainable. This is a key word or the main theme in the PCT language. SELF SUSTAINABILITY. Que mas…
When I came home, I tried to call a few people but the lines in my town are broken. Therefore when I head to el centro tomorrow (Today by the time I post this) I will call a few ppl. Oh lol, when I was leaving the internet café on my street I had the little kids running at me yelling GRINGA GRINGA (kinda cute bc it was in a sing-songy way) For all you ppl who don’t know… Americans are gringos. This stems from when Americans had green uniforms and would go into different countries in Latin/South America the people would yell Green Go! Meaning- Go Home! Therefore, we now have the fond reference of gringo. (Gringa for las mujeres)
Oh, I really want to show you where I live, like my town and my house, but I don’t know whether or not it is rude to walk around my house videotaping. I’m trying to find a time where no one is home, but they’re always home when I am. Que Lastima! I do have a few pics of my room and my town that I have figured out how to DL onto my external hard drive (thanks Geo and Brent). Now, the mission is to find an internet café with enough speed to DL my pics and not take an hour.
Hasta Manana… Descanse Bien.
E
Thursday, June 12, 2008
11 Junio
11 June 2008
So, I guess I will pick up where I left off. The second day of training began exactly like the previous, except after we first met, we were separated into our language groups. My placement along with many other people was a huge shock. All of us thought we were better than we were. This was however to be expected, I only had a minor and haven’t taken a class in 2 years. Still, my advice to future generations, don’t take a language unless you plan on pursuing it your whole life and becoming fluent. And, to become fluent you must live in a different country, with the language, for at least 6 months. It is a waste of money and time for people to receive a minor. This is my view only.
Okay so after language, we met with our business trainers, Denny and Alfredo. This was exciting, but again we always learn about what we are going to learn about. Entiendes? Yes, so it’s just understanding more and more about the system. We also did FODA which is basically SWOT in Spanish. And I felt really proud because they asked about Matrices and I knew about them and was asked to explain them. (Sometimes I just feel with all the talent and experience in the room, I am almost not worthy, however these little moments may seem like nothing for others, but ensures me that I am here for a reason) After the session, I received 5 books and 2 folders that I will eventually have to memorize…ridic.. So after class we all decided to go to a local bar to share a drink for Matt because it was his birthday. We were supposed to go to a near by town at Matt’s house for his party, but after I had dinner, I passed out for 2 hours. (Not from drinking, from exhaustion) When I woke up, my friends Alex and Sophie were here, waiting to leave, talking to my mom. We all had an intense discussion about the politics and Peru, many of you know it has been shaky in the past. And by the past, I mean 7 years ago. It’s just amazing the spirit of Peru although they’ve been through so much. Okay so back to the night, since I passed out, obviously I didn’t go and neither did the people in my town. I then went straight to bed. The next day, when I woke up, was the first day I felt like I wasn’t about to die from exhaustion. I finally had energy. This day each person had to go to the town of a person in their language group. Mine was in a town 5 minutes away in a combi (mini-bus).
The hill I had to walk up was absurd. No really, awful. I thought I was going to fall backwards at one point. And this may sound gross, but I sweat more than I thought one person could for simply walking up a hill. I have those pictures too, that I took at the top of the hill, once downloaded I will share with you! Class was good, I feel so smart because I know the answers. So, I think I got my wish to be in a lower class to build up my Spanish. However, I don’t think the people in my group like that the teacher always asks me and I answer all the time. Oh well. Then I ate my lunch; rice (always a staple in lunch), more rice, green beans, carrots, more rice, and carne. Not to sure what kind… After lunch I jumped on the combi to al centro. There I met up with all the other business volunteers and talked about the 3 objectivos of small business as well as the differences between formal and informal business structures. This would help us see the differences and capitalize on the benefits of being either or. Then since we were done early headed outside and taught everyone to play leapfrog…we did that for a bit. Also, I played a little futbol during break, yours truly scored 2 goals. (In your face Brenton) So after a nice game of leapfrog... my team won, we were given our next assignment, Mission Impossible, we have to go to a different town and find certain things (My group is about mercados) and answer questions about our specific tema. Then we have to formulate a business plan and the pair who comes up with the best idea gets a metal. I will let you know.
After this I headed to a nice internet café. It was much nicer than in my pueblo, however this place was more expensive. (Therefore, mine’s better) After this I came home to do my homework with my mom and talk with her. Three of the guys in my town came to get me for futbol. (Tom, I decided I am a la U. fan) I played for about an hour and then came home for dinner….Brace yourself… spaghetti and meatballs. Que chevere?! But, wait for it….my meatball had a bone…and something that looked like it wasn’t supposed to be there as well. But it was delicious. Now I am sitting watching television, which is family time here. I need to film my house so you all can see how cozy it is. Okay well, I need to do a few other ejerciscios (Mom, I am strengthening my knees and no they have not been bothering me and no, I don’t know what type of meat that was and would rather not know)
Que mas….. nada
Buenas noches, Descansan bien.
So, I guess I will pick up where I left off. The second day of training began exactly like the previous, except after we first met, we were separated into our language groups. My placement along with many other people was a huge shock. All of us thought we were better than we were. This was however to be expected, I only had a minor and haven’t taken a class in 2 years. Still, my advice to future generations, don’t take a language unless you plan on pursuing it your whole life and becoming fluent. And, to become fluent you must live in a different country, with the language, for at least 6 months. It is a waste of money and time for people to receive a minor. This is my view only.
Okay so after language, we met with our business trainers, Denny and Alfredo. This was exciting, but again we always learn about what we are going to learn about. Entiendes? Yes, so it’s just understanding more and more about the system. We also did FODA which is basically SWOT in Spanish. And I felt really proud because they asked about Matrices and I knew about them and was asked to explain them. (Sometimes I just feel with all the talent and experience in the room, I am almost not worthy, however these little moments may seem like nothing for others, but ensures me that I am here for a reason) After the session, I received 5 books and 2 folders that I will eventually have to memorize…ridic.. So after class we all decided to go to a local bar to share a drink for Matt because it was his birthday. We were supposed to go to a near by town at Matt’s house for his party, but after I had dinner, I passed out for 2 hours. (Not from drinking, from exhaustion) When I woke up, my friends Alex and Sophie were here, waiting to leave, talking to my mom. We all had an intense discussion about the politics and Peru, many of you know it has been shaky in the past. And by the past, I mean 7 years ago. It’s just amazing the spirit of Peru although they’ve been through so much. Okay so back to the night, since I passed out, obviously I didn’t go and neither did the people in my town. I then went straight to bed. The next day, when I woke up, was the first day I felt like I wasn’t about to die from exhaustion. I finally had energy. This day each person had to go to the town of a person in their language group. Mine was in a town 5 minutes away in a combi (mini-bus).
The hill I had to walk up was absurd. No really, awful. I thought I was going to fall backwards at one point. And this may sound gross, but I sweat more than I thought one person could for simply walking up a hill. I have those pictures too, that I took at the top of the hill, once downloaded I will share with you! Class was good, I feel so smart because I know the answers. So, I think I got my wish to be in a lower class to build up my Spanish. However, I don’t think the people in my group like that the teacher always asks me and I answer all the time. Oh well. Then I ate my lunch; rice (always a staple in lunch), more rice, green beans, carrots, more rice, and carne. Not to sure what kind… After lunch I jumped on the combi to al centro. There I met up with all the other business volunteers and talked about the 3 objectivos of small business as well as the differences between formal and informal business structures. This would help us see the differences and capitalize on the benefits of being either or. Then since we were done early headed outside and taught everyone to play leapfrog…we did that for a bit. Also, I played a little futbol during break, yours truly scored 2 goals. (In your face Brenton) So after a nice game of leapfrog... my team won, we were given our next assignment, Mission Impossible, we have to go to a different town and find certain things (My group is about mercados) and answer questions about our specific tema. Then we have to formulate a business plan and the pair who comes up with the best idea gets a metal. I will let you know.
After this I headed to a nice internet café. It was much nicer than in my pueblo, however this place was more expensive. (Therefore, mine’s better) After this I came home to do my homework with my mom and talk with her. Three of the guys in my town came to get me for futbol. (Tom, I decided I am a la U. fan) I played for about an hour and then came home for dinner….Brace yourself… spaghetti and meatballs. Que chevere?! But, wait for it….my meatball had a bone…and something that looked like it wasn’t supposed to be there as well. But it was delicious. Now I am sitting watching television, which is family time here. I need to film my house so you all can see how cozy it is. Okay well, I need to do a few other ejerciscios (Mom, I am strengthening my knees and no they have not been bothering me and no, I don’t know what type of meat that was and would rather not know)
Que mas….. nada
Buenas noches, Descansan bien.
9 Junio 2008
9 June 2008
It’s around 11 o’clock and I just returned home from a party next door. Two Canadian girls came back to see a host mom they stayed with for 10 days, 5 years ago. They were here to help paint a school in my barrio. It is amazing that within 2 hours the entire community managed to stop by, sip on a pisco, and dance a bit. This is one of the many differences between here and the states.
Okay, so I will begin my journey, not in Miami, but in Chacalacaya. Here we stayed in what the other PCTs and I call the “compound.” The “compound” had very nice rooms, hot water, and good food. We all laughed at how we were being slowly immersed into the way we would be living for the next couple of years. (Miami, the compound, nice house, el campo) We had a lot of fun/bonding there as well as got to meet all the people who will be our “bosses.” One of the kids even got spit on by a llama.
On the second day, we left and headed to the PCT headquarters. Here we were briefed about health and language before they introduced us to our host families. I was told about my family a mom and 2 children 19 and 17. However, when “my family” showed up, I had a mom 2 little siblings and a dad. So me, being a recent student, didn’t think twice about questioning my professors. Turns out, my inclinations were right, I was sent home with the wrong family. Luckily, the two families lived close to each other and knew other (another great thing about their culture). I eventually met my family and all was forgotten. I didn’t have a moment to breathe, because right away mi mama wanted to take me to her neighbors where a fellow PCT, Mark was. We found 2 other PCTs, Alex and Vince there with their families! So up the street we walked (my house is in the middle of the hill, but closer than others to the bottom) gathering more PCTs and their families as we went! They took us up a hill (large hill, I live in the mountains) and at the top was a futbol field. Their field is about 9 squares of concrete with goalposts, no nets. Here we all played together for a bit, with a water bottle and eventually a ball, then on the way back they showed up their water purifying system, which everyone in town is really proud of. After this, though I felt like it was 9, it was only 4!! We decided to go to Chosica to the carnival. The carnival had all sorts of different rides, games, food, and small trinkets. I also saw el Cristo Blanco, which has underneath a Cathedral. Oh, my family is Catholic and I will be attending mass at 8 on Sundays. However, if I understood mi mama correctly we walked outside onto the street and watch the procession… Que chevere?! At around 7ish we came home and had dinner, (arroz con pollo) rice and chicken. I tried to stay up in the living room to watch Peru versus Mexico futbol game (Mexico dominated) but was too tired. I went to bed and passed out. The next morning my mom took me to the bus to meet the rest of my group. We all took the bus to the center together. The rest of this day is boring, besides meeting another volunteer who talked about diarrhea and how we all will get it. Surprisingly enough (or not) one of the volunteers already did. He ate food from the carnival en la noche pasada. (Which we are strictly told not to do) Also, we did have one girl pass out from the vaccinations we received. Also, we did receive our medkits, which are loaded to the brim… I’m still not quite sure how I’m fitting it with my things… yet to be determined. When I got home, I headed to the Lovandoria (I don’t think that’s quite how you spell it) where I could call home and go on the internet. But when I say this place has 3 phone booths and 6 computers, do not think spacious. I’m talking like half the size of a small bedroom in the states. I can’t compare anything exactly, but I will measure it next time! The town here is beautiful, la vista is beautiful. Hopefully, I will get my pics up soon so you all can see for yourself. The people here are so nice and so grateful for us to come to Peru, it’s remarkable.
I also should mention, I am one of the 2 PCTs that live in a house with running hot water. Yay me! However, this can only mean bad things for my future house, no?
Okay, well I need to sleep.
I hope this was enough details for you to hold you off for a little bit!!
It’s around 11 o’clock and I just returned home from a party next door. Two Canadian girls came back to see a host mom they stayed with for 10 days, 5 years ago. They were here to help paint a school in my barrio. It is amazing that within 2 hours the entire community managed to stop by, sip on a pisco, and dance a bit. This is one of the many differences between here and the states.
Okay, so I will begin my journey, not in Miami, but in Chacalacaya. Here we stayed in what the other PCTs and I call the “compound.” The “compound” had very nice rooms, hot water, and good food. We all laughed at how we were being slowly immersed into the way we would be living for the next couple of years. (Miami, the compound, nice house, el campo) We had a lot of fun/bonding there as well as got to meet all the people who will be our “bosses.” One of the kids even got spit on by a llama.
On the second day, we left and headed to the PCT headquarters. Here we were briefed about health and language before they introduced us to our host families. I was told about my family a mom and 2 children 19 and 17. However, when “my family” showed up, I had a mom 2 little siblings and a dad. So me, being a recent student, didn’t think twice about questioning my professors. Turns out, my inclinations were right, I was sent home with the wrong family. Luckily, the two families lived close to each other and knew other (another great thing about their culture). I eventually met my family and all was forgotten. I didn’t have a moment to breathe, because right away mi mama wanted to take me to her neighbors where a fellow PCT, Mark was. We found 2 other PCTs, Alex and Vince there with their families! So up the street we walked (my house is in the middle of the hill, but closer than others to the bottom) gathering more PCTs and their families as we went! They took us up a hill (large hill, I live in the mountains) and at the top was a futbol field. Their field is about 9 squares of concrete with goalposts, no nets. Here we all played together for a bit, with a water bottle and eventually a ball, then on the way back they showed up their water purifying system, which everyone in town is really proud of. After this, though I felt like it was 9, it was only 4!! We decided to go to Chosica to the carnival. The carnival had all sorts of different rides, games, food, and small trinkets. I also saw el Cristo Blanco, which has underneath a Cathedral. Oh, my family is Catholic and I will be attending mass at 8 on Sundays. However, if I understood mi mama correctly we walked outside onto the street and watch the procession… Que chevere?! At around 7ish we came home and had dinner, (arroz con pollo) rice and chicken. I tried to stay up in the living room to watch Peru versus Mexico futbol game (Mexico dominated) but was too tired. I went to bed and passed out. The next morning my mom took me to the bus to meet the rest of my group. We all took the bus to the center together. The rest of this day is boring, besides meeting another volunteer who talked about diarrhea and how we all will get it. Surprisingly enough (or not) one of the volunteers already did. He ate food from the carnival en la noche pasada. (Which we are strictly told not to do) Also, we did have one girl pass out from the vaccinations we received. Also, we did receive our medkits, which are loaded to the brim… I’m still not quite sure how I’m fitting it with my things… yet to be determined. When I got home, I headed to the Lovandoria (I don’t think that’s quite how you spell it) where I could call home and go on the internet. But when I say this place has 3 phone booths and 6 computers, do not think spacious. I’m talking like half the size of a small bedroom in the states. I can’t compare anything exactly, but I will measure it next time! The town here is beautiful, la vista is beautiful. Hopefully, I will get my pics up soon so you all can see for yourself. The people here are so nice and so grateful for us to come to Peru, it’s remarkable.
I also should mention, I am one of the 2 PCTs that live in a house with running hot water. Yay me! However, this can only mean bad things for my future house, no?
Okay, well I need to sleep.
I hope this was enough details for you to hold you off for a little bit!!
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Training Day 3, 1st in Peru
Hola mi familia y mis amigos!
Everything an everyone is great. No none of us are hippies and what som of you call tree huggers, we are all intelligent individuals hoping to make a difference. I move into my host family"s house toay. Forgot to tell the lady that I did not want a dog in my house/around my stuff... Bet I get the biggst and smelliest dog ever.
What is new, everything!!! But thats the best part!! I have taken a few pics but i can"t download them onto the internet till I get Wireless service... which is consideably hard to come by right now at this complex. I"m assuming I will get to an internet cafe sometime this week as well as a place to get a phone card.
Also, the whole staff here makes you feel like you can and will achieve so much. (that calms any worries I have had) They asked me where I wanted I sai that I didn{t knwo specifically but def not where it rains 90% of the time. Perferably the northern part of Peru and either coastal or sierra... I will not know for 7 more weeks. Okay I have to go, I sent some of you an email to let you know I"m safe, happy, and healthy. And miss you all!!
xoxo ekh
PS I"v been using quotation marks for the apostrophe bc I have not figured it out yet on thes keyboards lol
PEACE
Everything an everyone is great. No none of us are hippies and what som of you call tree huggers, we are all intelligent individuals hoping to make a difference. I move into my host family"s house toay. Forgot to tell the lady that I did not want a dog in my house/around my stuff... Bet I get the biggst and smelliest dog ever.
What is new, everything!!! But thats the best part!! I have taken a few pics but i can"t download them onto the internet till I get Wireless service... which is consideably hard to come by right now at this complex. I"m assuming I will get to an internet cafe sometime this week as well as a place to get a phone card.
Also, the whole staff here makes you feel like you can and will achieve so much. (that calms any worries I have had) They asked me where I wanted I sai that I didn{t knwo specifically but def not where it rains 90% of the time. Perferably the northern part of Peru and either coastal or sierra... I will not know for 7 more weeks. Okay I have to go, I sent some of you an email to let you know I"m safe, happy, and healthy. And miss you all!!
xoxo ekh
PS I"v been using quotation marks for the apostrophe bc I have not figured it out yet on thes keyboards lol
PEACE
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Second Dayy
Hey everyone,
I had a great day, long, but great.
Mom said goodbye early this afternoon and I went out to lunch with a bunch of volunteers. We had work shops all day so im basically exhausted and am looking forward to sleep.. Guess I have to come back another time to experience the whole Miami South Beach scene. So tomorrow I'm off at noonish. I'll talk as soon as I can to all of you. Also, I will try to post some pics within the next few days. Okay, I'm tired and trying to do 100 things :)
xoxo
I had a great day, long, but great.
Mom said goodbye early this afternoon and I went out to lunch with a bunch of volunteers. We had work shops all day so im basically exhausted and am looking forward to sleep.. Guess I have to come back another time to experience the whole Miami South Beach scene. So tomorrow I'm off at noonish. I'll talk as soon as I can to all of you. Also, I will try to post some pics within the next few days. Okay, I'm tired and trying to do 100 things :)
xoxo
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Bienvenido a Miami
Hola!! Ya llegamos a Miami! El tiempo es perfecto! Mucho de sol y calor.
Mom and I went out to this amazing Italia (GEORGE HENRY) restaurante this evening. It was quite fascinating, because in Miami English is the second language. Us north easterners are so used to hearing Spanish spoken, to avoid being understood, that now hearing solamente espanol in order to be understood is amazing. When we walked into Caffe Abbretuccci, the host asked us (in Spanish) the name our reservation was under, and immediately (being so brilliant) I understood answered Hutchinson. Mom was like, "What Elizabeth, did he speak English, because I missed that." Pretty cool. So by the end of la noche mama was truly convinced that instead of Peru I should hang out in Miami for 2 years.
The flight was awful, hence the fact that I never fly AA. It took from 11:30 till 3:30 for the flight to take off and land, on a supposed 2 hour flight. grrr! However, since it's my first time I'll let it slide. As Grandma B just said on Tuesday, the first time it happens you don't know better, the second time, beat them. (Though she was talking about something completely different.) I'll let you all (the 5 ppl reading this) determine that.
I want to say thank you for all the love and the support all of you have shown me via text, calls, and emails. Thank you:
First and foremost my family; Dad, Mom, Georgie, Brenton, and Grant
Also of course: Grandma H & Grandma B, Aunt Ba, Uncle Col, Aunt Marge, Aunt Kathy, Aunt Sue, Aunt Mo, Aunt Fran, Uncle Doug
Meggggers 4L, Maaaac, JLo, Mei Martin, and Lisey for stopping by <333
Roomies; Dana, Nique, Kep and Chlo (DKEC)
Frankie, Johnny & Holly, Meg McLaughlin, AJ, Aunt Diane
y por supuesto Tom my Peruvian guide
Sorry I'm naming ppl, I just went through the list of the past few days. I know there are 100 more of you that have been there for me and supported me, know that I love and appreciate all of you!!
Okay loves, buenas noches! (I have to get up at 6:30)
PS: Hopefully, by the end of this you all will learn at unas pocas palabras en espanol.
Mom and I went out to this amazing Italia (GEORGE HENRY) restaurante this evening. It was quite fascinating, because in Miami English is the second language. Us north easterners are so used to hearing Spanish spoken, to avoid being understood, that now hearing solamente espanol in order to be understood is amazing. When we walked into Caffe Abbretuccci, the host asked us (in Spanish) the name our reservation was under, and immediately (being so brilliant) I understood answered Hutchinson. Mom was like, "What Elizabeth, did he speak English, because I missed that." Pretty cool. So by the end of la noche mama was truly convinced that instead of Peru I should hang out in Miami for 2 years.
The flight was awful, hence the fact that I never fly AA. It took from 11:30 till 3:30 for the flight to take off and land, on a supposed 2 hour flight. grrr! However, since it's my first time I'll let it slide. As Grandma B just said on Tuesday, the first time it happens you don't know better, the second time, beat them. (Though she was talking about something completely different.) I'll let you all (the 5 ppl reading this) determine that.
I want to say thank you for all the love and the support all of you have shown me via text, calls, and emails. Thank you:
First and foremost my family; Dad, Mom, Georgie, Brenton, and Grant
Also of course: Grandma H & Grandma B, Aunt Ba, Uncle Col, Aunt Marge, Aunt Kathy, Aunt Sue, Aunt Mo, Aunt Fran, Uncle Doug
Meggggers 4L, Maaaac, JLo, Mei Martin, and Lisey for stopping by <333
Roomies; Dana, Nique, Kep and Chlo (DKEC)
Frankie, Johnny & Holly, Meg McLaughlin, AJ, Aunt Diane
y por supuesto Tom my Peruvian guide
Sorry I'm naming ppl, I just went through the list of the past few days. I know there are 100 more of you that have been there for me and supported me, know that I love and appreciate all of you!!
Okay loves, buenas noches! (I have to get up at 6:30)
PS: Hopefully, by the end of this you all will learn at unas pocas palabras en espanol.
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