I know I have neglected this blog in the last two weeks but for some reason, it is so hard for me to update it while I'm in the states. I need to finish up my trip and let you know what has been going on since I arrived in OKC Dec. 13! But today is not the day! Today is the day to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! SO!
Merry Christmas!
This year I am celebrating at my Mom's house. My sister and brother-in-law are here and we are having a wonderful time. I am currently looking out over the beautiful swamp lake (oxymoron?) of Bisteneau. I hope everyone is having/had a wonderful Christmas!
Take care and continue living the adventure!
Viva la Vida!
liz
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Oh, the weather outside is frightful!
So I'm closing in on my last few days in Guatemala and all the news I have received from home is that it's COLD! I found myself singing 'Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful' the other day as I walked down the street in shorts and a T-shirt and I thought to myself, wait a second, I can't sing this here. The weather is beautiful! So, all I can say is that I'm ready for some time by a fire with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate or coffee! Um...sounds nice! I hope the snow stays around until I get home!
Cory got in Monday night and we have had a great time thus far! We went to the hot springs yesterday which is always a fun trip considering you have to take a chicken bus and a private truck to get there. The ride is beautiful and through the cloud forest. Below are pictures from the day (thanks Cory for letting me use your pics)! Enjoy!
Also, we are attending a soccer game tonight. It's the finals so it should be fun! I'm not sure what the plan is for the rest of the week but I know it will be full of adventure! What a way to end my trip!
Hope you all are doing well!
Viva la Vida!
Liz
Me in the back of the truck on our way to Fuentes Georginas
Cory and I with Santa Maria (the volcano) in the background
In the Hot Springs.
The Cloud Forest
Working the fields.
An incredible meal of ceviche!
Playlist:
The whole Snow Patrol CD (Eyes Open)
Cory got in Monday night and we have had a great time thus far! We went to the hot springs yesterday which is always a fun trip considering you have to take a chicken bus and a private truck to get there. The ride is beautiful and through the cloud forest. Below are pictures from the day (thanks Cory for letting me use your pics)! Enjoy!
Also, we are attending a soccer game tonight. It's the finals so it should be fun! I'm not sure what the plan is for the rest of the week but I know it will be full of adventure! What a way to end my trip!
Hope you all are doing well!
Viva la Vida!
Liz
Me in the back of the truck on our way to Fuentes Georginas
Cory and I with Santa Maria (the volcano) in the background
In the Hot Springs.
The Cloud Forest
Working the fields. 
An incredible meal of ceviche!Playlist:
The whole Snow Patrol CD (Eyes Open)
Monday, December 8, 2008
Thoughts for the day
- Sam Bradford is legit.
- The GRE is going to be tougher than I thought. But, according to the Princeton Review book, there is a 4 week study plan. This is good news for me!
- I am looking forward to my trip to Fuentes Georginas this week.
- I think I may live with one of my good friends down here when I return. I really like living with Letty but I don't like always having to check in. I mean, I'm 25, I haven't had to do that since I was 17.
- Dec. 7 is a day when everyone is Xela burns trash in the streets. I don't know why they do this but it is totally acceptable.
- Cory comes today. That will be fun to have another friend in Xela.
- I have laid out the last two mornings. Will this be possible once I return to Enid? I'm thinking the answer is no!
- I have gotten a lot of entertainment from this site lately. Sorry if it offends anyone!
- I'm looking forward to a large Diet Coke from Sonic and a party burrito from Bueno!
- I have had Corn Flakes for breakfast the last two mornings. And with that, I have come to appreciate powered milk. Last year, you couldn't get me to touch the stuff but after my experience the last two mornings, I think I like it.
Playlist:
Ahora Es by Wisin & Yandel
I'm Done by Jo Dee Messina
Many the Miles by Sarah Bareilles
Maria by Stephen Kellog and The Sixers
Thursday, December 4, 2008
A Bit of a Blunder
This post won't be long but I promise that it will be entertaining!
Yesterday, I sat at my favorite coffee shop that I frequent daily. I came at my normal time and ordered a mochachino. I sat and procrastinated longer than I normally do while searching for a flight home (more on this later) and I realized that I had been sitting there for a good hour and a half and I should probably order something else. I knew that another coffee drink would be a bad idea so I ventured for a smoothie instead. The girl walked up and we proceeded to have this conversation:
chica- "algo mas?"
me-"si, quiero un smoothie"
chica-"que tipo?"
me-"um, gustaria Mora"
chica-"ah, lo siento, no queremos a hora. Hay Fresa, pina, mango, banano"
me-"Yo quiero pene."
chica-"Pene? (followed by a lot of laughter)o pina?"
me (me, realizing my mistake that I just ordered a penis smoothie instead of a pinapple smoothie turned red immediatly red)-"si, pina esta bien y mas mejor (yes, pineapple is good and much better)"
Needless to say, I was quite embarrassed but thankful that it wasn't the cute owner who was taking my order! After I spent the next ten minutes laughing to myself and sharing my palabra problema with whoever was online (thanks Emily and Cory for laughing with me!) my friend Randi showed up and I was still red. After telling her the story, we both exploded into laughed one more time!
On another note, I finally booked my flight and I decided to come home Dec. 13. My friend, Cory, is coming down next week and we will be flying home on the same flight next Saturday. I figured that since all my other friends would be in the middle of finals the next week they wouldn't be much fun and I wasn't planning on studying that week anyway! So, get ready, 10 days and I'll be home!
Viva la vida!
Liz
Playlist:
Open Your Eyes by Snow Patrol
Another Sliver of Eternity by So Long Goodbyes
Cowboy Bill by Garth Brooks
Leave the Pieces by The Wreckers
Yesterday, I sat at my favorite coffee shop that I frequent daily. I came at my normal time and ordered a mochachino. I sat and procrastinated longer than I normally do while searching for a flight home (more on this later) and I realized that I had been sitting there for a good hour and a half and I should probably order something else. I knew that another coffee drink would be a bad idea so I ventured for a smoothie instead. The girl walked up and we proceeded to have this conversation:
chica- "algo mas?"
me-"si, quiero un smoothie"
chica-"que tipo?"
me-"um, gustaria Mora"
chica-"ah, lo siento, no queremos a hora. Hay Fresa, pina, mango, banano"
me-"Yo quiero pene."
chica-"Pene? (followed by a lot of laughter)o pina?"
me (me, realizing my mistake that I just ordered a penis smoothie instead of a pinapple smoothie turned red immediatly red)-"si, pina esta bien y mas mejor (yes, pineapple is good and much better)"
Needless to say, I was quite embarrassed but thankful that it wasn't the cute owner who was taking my order! After I spent the next ten minutes laughing to myself and sharing my palabra problema with whoever was online (thanks Emily and Cory for laughing with me!) my friend Randi showed up and I was still red. After telling her the story, we both exploded into laughed one more time!
On another note, I finally booked my flight and I decided to come home Dec. 13. My friend, Cory, is coming down next week and we will be flying home on the same flight next Saturday. I figured that since all my other friends would be in the middle of finals the next week they wouldn't be much fun and I wasn't planning on studying that week anyway! So, get ready, 10 days and I'll be home!
Viva la vida!
Liz
Playlist:
Open Your Eyes by Snow Patrol
Another Sliver of Eternity by So Long Goodbyes
Cowboy Bill by Garth Brooks
Leave the Pieces by The Wreckers
Monday, December 1, 2008
A vacation from vacation: Thanksgiving at the Sweet River
I spent my Thanksgiving very differently than I have in the past. This year, I was in Rio Dulce (the sweet river) with my friends. This was the first major holiday that I have been away from my family but I was very happy to be with my close friends that are like family to me!
Carrie and I arrived in Rio on Wednesday. It was a long day (we left Xela at 4:00am) but totally worth it. Once we got there, we called for the Lancha (a boat taxi) from our hotel to come pick us up. We settled into our bungalow and headed for the restaurant for drinks and dinner.
We were exhausted from the day of traveling and I was in bed with the lights off before 8:00! About 15 minutes after I went to bed, Carrie and I were awakened by the voices of three men how had wandered down our dock to our bungalow. Because I had been asleep for 15 minutes already, I assured Carrie that the men that were outside our door were only there because they were on a scavenger hunt (I come up with some pretty crazy things when I'm asleep). I could see the guys and I could tell that they weren't going to try to get in, they were just curious what was down there...anyway, they wandered off only to come back two more times (once to pee off the dock, the other time, I have no idea). Needless to say, we were happy to wake up in the morning and everything was still intact (don't worry mom and dad, it wasn't really dangerous, more entertaining because we were in a big cabin by ourselves. We were locked in so it was okay).
McNabb and Jason came on Thursday and we, of course, were very happy to see them!
We were all pleasantly surprised to see that our hotel was going to be serving Thanksgiving dinner (turkey, dressing, veggies, cranberry sauce, and pie) and enjoyed our first night together in the restaurant laughing and carrying on.
We had three more friends join us on Friday on their way back from Tikal and the seven of us had a wonderful time laying out, jumping off the platform above the marina, kayaking, visiting castles, eating, napping, working puzzles, and just being together.
I was reminded during this vacation that sometimes it's best to get away and do nothing. Unfortunately, I came down with something on Saturday that knocked me out of comission all day. I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to travel home but I woke up Sunday and felt so much better.
There are so many details that I didn't include in the post because I don't feel like I could do it justice. This was a wonderful vacation that I'm so thankful for. I was listening to Jimmy Buffett's 'Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes' and the lyrics fit this trip so well:
'I took off for a weekend last month
Just to try and recall the whole year
All of the faces and all of the places
Wonderin' where they all disappeared
I didnt ponder the question too long
I was hungry and went out for a bite
Ran into a chum with a bottle of rum
And we wound up drinkin all night
Its these changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes
Nothing remains quite the same
With all of our running and all of our cunning
If we couldnt laugh we would all go insane'
A few other things:
Liz
(sorry, no playlist today. I forgot my headphones and I'm at a cafe...)
Carrie and I arrived in Rio on Wednesday. It was a long day (we left Xela at 4:00am) but totally worth it. Once we got there, we called for the Lancha (a boat taxi) from our hotel to come pick us up. We settled into our bungalow and headed for the restaurant for drinks and dinner.
We were exhausted from the day of traveling and I was in bed with the lights off before 8:00! About 15 minutes after I went to bed, Carrie and I were awakened by the voices of three men how had wandered down our dock to our bungalow. Because I had been asleep for 15 minutes already, I assured Carrie that the men that were outside our door were only there because they were on a scavenger hunt (I come up with some pretty crazy things when I'm asleep). I could see the guys and I could tell that they weren't going to try to get in, they were just curious what was down there...anyway, they wandered off only to come back two more times (once to pee off the dock, the other time, I have no idea). Needless to say, we were happy to wake up in the morning and everything was still intact (don't worry mom and dad, it wasn't really dangerous, more entertaining because we were in a big cabin by ourselves. We were locked in so it was okay).McNabb and Jason came on Thursday and we, of course, were very happy to see them!
We were all pleasantly surprised to see that our hotel was going to be serving Thanksgiving dinner (turkey, dressing, veggies, cranberry sauce, and pie) and enjoyed our first night together in the restaurant laughing and carrying on.We had three more friends join us on Friday on their way back from Tikal and the seven of us had a wonderful time laying out, jumping off the platform above the marina, kayaking, visiting castles, eating, napping, working puzzles, and just being together.
I was reminded during this vacation that sometimes it's best to get away and do nothing. Unfortunately, I came down with something on Saturday that knocked me out of comission all day. I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to travel home but I woke up Sunday and felt so much better.There are so many details that I didn't include in the post because I don't feel like I could do it justice. This was a wonderful vacation that I'm so thankful for. I was listening to Jimmy Buffett's 'Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes' and the lyrics fit this trip so well:
'I took off for a weekend last month
Just to try and recall the whole year
All of the faces and all of the places
Wonderin' where they all disappeared
I didnt ponder the question too long
I was hungry and went out for a bite
Ran into a chum with a bottle of rum
And we wound up drinkin all night
Its these changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes
Nothing remains quite the same
With all of our running and all of our cunning
If we couldnt laugh we would all go insane'
A few other things:
- I have decided to come back and teach for three months this spring. I will be teaching Middle School Math and Bible while the current teacher is out on Maternity leave.
- I am coming home Dec. 18 and will be in the states until mid-Feb.
- I am considering moving to Wyoming this summer!
- I have started looking at Masters' programs in the areas of Internation Studies/NGO administration. This could potentially include a Peace Corp stint!
- My avacado guy is back (I think I may have already included this but I'm super stoked about it!)
- And lastly, BOOMER SOONER! Way to go Sooners! I know that there is controversey in the BCS but this year it happened to fall in our favor!
Liz
(sorry, no playlist today. I forgot my headphones and I'm at a cafe...)
Monday, November 24, 2008
A change of plans.
The weekend has come and gone and I am still in Xela. As you may remember, my friend, Carrie, and I were suppose to take off yesterday and head north. After an entertaining twist of events, we headed back to the boys house, rang the door bell, and re-situated ourselves back in our room.
It all started Sunday morning with a cup of coffee from McDonald's (they have really good coffee down here) and me procrastinating (that's not like me at all, is it?) Our shuttle to Antigua was picking us up at 2:00 so we could spend the night there and then head to Sumec Champey the next day (an 8 hour bus trip). Our bus driver showed up at 2:15 and we headed out of town. We quickly made friends with the two other travelers in the shuttle and agreed that the trip was much safer than in a chicken bus. Carrie and I were both 'patched' (motion sickness+Guatemalan roads=a disastrous road trip, however, with the patch, things are a little better). We were on the outskirts of town when we pulled into the middle lane of the five lane road and stopped. Our driver had received a phone call and from what I could tell, he had just been told that we needed to pick up a few more people. I clarified and he said yes, that is what we were going to do. We turned around (in the middle of the road) and headed back into Xela. We made a few turns and ended up at Linea Dorada (one of the four first-class bus stations in town). Our driver (I'll call him Pedro) then told us that we were going to take a taxi to Antigua because he had to take all of the people at the bus station to Guatemala City. The four of us were a little confused by the situation because we had paid for a shuttle and that's what we expected. At this point, one of the other travelers asked Pedro if he would wait until out taxi came before he left for Guate and he said he would. Shortly after he unloaded our backpacks, he started the shuttle and drove off. So, here we were, four female travelers left on the side of the road, waiting for a taxi. It was close to 3:00 now and at the same time Carrie and I looked at each other with the same look in our eyes. We were both questioning our decision to go. A taxi driver walked over to us and asked if we needed a cab and I told him to hold on a minute. Carrie and I took about 12 seconds to decide that this trip was starting off in the wrong manner and we headed over to a local taxi and had him take us back to our 'home' from the last week. When I asked what was going on with all the people at the bus station he said that the bus wasn't able to come because of all the construction on the road. He said that traffic was backed up and at that point, we both knew that we made the right decision.
We weren't able to get a refund for the shuttle but we did work out a deal that the company would pay for our bus to Rio Dulce (the sweet river) on Wednesday. We will miss out on the beginning of our trip but considering that both of us gets so sick, we figured it would be more fun to hang out with friends for the rest of the week than make ourselves spend so much time on a mountainous road with our heads out the window!
When we arrived back at the house, we were welcomed back with open arms but decided to make dinner to make sure they wouldn't mind us staying a few more nights. We cooked a great meal and headed to bed early. We will be in Xela until Wednesday morning (we leave on the 4am bus) and I will return on Sunday. Unfortunately, Carrie has to go back to the states on Sunday but I will have two more weeks here before I continue on to my next stop!
It's been wonderful having an old friend here to experience this city with and laugh at the random things that happen every day. Just today, we were enjoying our morning Diet Cokes in McDonald's and a Guatemalan girl was sitting behind me. After about 15 minutes, she turned around and asked if I would be willing to give her English classes. At first, I was a little hesitant because I didn't want to over commit my time here but after talking to her for 10 minutes, I decided that she was pretty interesting and we are going to meet up next week to get coffee. We worked out a deal that if I speak to her for 30 minutes in English, we will spend the next 30 minutes speaking Spanish. I'll give an update on how that goes next week!
Viva La Vida!
Liz
Oh, my avocado guy is back! I have eaten the most wonderful aquacartes since his return! I wish I could bring some back for all of you!
Playlist:
Beautiful Day by U2
Portions of Foxes by Rilo Kiley
Beautiful by So Long Goodbyes
Island Girl by Elton John
Furry Sings the Blues by Joni Mitchell
Sideways by Citizen Cope
Growing Older But Not Up by Jimmy Buffett
Love Story by Taylor Swift
Hips Don't Lie by Shikira
It all started Sunday morning with a cup of coffee from McDonald's (they have really good coffee down here) and me procrastinating (that's not like me at all, is it?) Our shuttle to Antigua was picking us up at 2:00 so we could spend the night there and then head to Sumec Champey the next day (an 8 hour bus trip). Our bus driver showed up at 2:15 and we headed out of town. We quickly made friends with the two other travelers in the shuttle and agreed that the trip was much safer than in a chicken bus. Carrie and I were both 'patched' (motion sickness+Guatemalan roads=a disastrous road trip, however, with the patch, things are a little better). We were on the outskirts of town when we pulled into the middle lane of the five lane road and stopped. Our driver had received a phone call and from what I could tell, he had just been told that we needed to pick up a few more people. I clarified and he said yes, that is what we were going to do. We turned around (in the middle of the road) and headed back into Xela. We made a few turns and ended up at Linea Dorada (one of the four first-class bus stations in town). Our driver (I'll call him Pedro) then told us that we were going to take a taxi to Antigua because he had to take all of the people at the bus station to Guatemala City. The four of us were a little confused by the situation because we had paid for a shuttle and that's what we expected. At this point, one of the other travelers asked Pedro if he would wait until out taxi came before he left for Guate and he said he would. Shortly after he unloaded our backpacks, he started the shuttle and drove off. So, here we were, four female travelers left on the side of the road, waiting for a taxi. It was close to 3:00 now and at the same time Carrie and I looked at each other with the same look in our eyes. We were both questioning our decision to go. A taxi driver walked over to us and asked if we needed a cab and I told him to hold on a minute. Carrie and I took about 12 seconds to decide that this trip was starting off in the wrong manner and we headed over to a local taxi and had him take us back to our 'home' from the last week. When I asked what was going on with all the people at the bus station he said that the bus wasn't able to come because of all the construction on the road. He said that traffic was backed up and at that point, we both knew that we made the right decision.
We weren't able to get a refund for the shuttle but we did work out a deal that the company would pay for our bus to Rio Dulce (the sweet river) on Wednesday. We will miss out on the beginning of our trip but considering that both of us gets so sick, we figured it would be more fun to hang out with friends for the rest of the week than make ourselves spend so much time on a mountainous road with our heads out the window!
When we arrived back at the house, we were welcomed back with open arms but decided to make dinner to make sure they wouldn't mind us staying a few more nights. We cooked a great meal and headed to bed early. We will be in Xela until Wednesday morning (we leave on the 4am bus) and I will return on Sunday. Unfortunately, Carrie has to go back to the states on Sunday but I will have two more weeks here before I continue on to my next stop!
It's been wonderful having an old friend here to experience this city with and laugh at the random things that happen every day. Just today, we were enjoying our morning Diet Cokes in McDonald's and a Guatemalan girl was sitting behind me. After about 15 minutes, she turned around and asked if I would be willing to give her English classes. At first, I was a little hesitant because I didn't want to over commit my time here but after talking to her for 10 minutes, I decided that she was pretty interesting and we are going to meet up next week to get coffee. We worked out a deal that if I speak to her for 30 minutes in English, we will spend the next 30 minutes speaking Spanish. I'll give an update on how that goes next week!
Viva La Vida!
Liz
Oh, my avocado guy is back! I have eaten the most wonderful aquacartes since his return! I wish I could bring some back for all of you!
Playlist:
Beautiful Day by U2
Portions of Foxes by Rilo Kiley
Beautiful by So Long Goodbyes
Island Girl by Elton John
Furry Sings the Blues by Joni Mitchell
Sideways by Citizen Cope
Growing Older But Not Up by Jimmy Buffett
Love Story by Taylor Swift
Hips Don't Lie by Shikira
Monday, November 17, 2008
A few more pictures
My Spanish teacher Kenia and I at the school
The precious daughter of the director. She is half Dutch half Guatemalan!Fin de Samana, amigos, y clase de ingles!
This weekend has been the most relaxing that I have had since I have been here. It was wonderful! Friday was my last day of Spanish class for a couple weeks and I really enjoyed my teacher this week. We became friends and she is hilarious! Friday night I hung out with friends and ate with them. Saturday, we got up and headed to the Schnyders. They are pregnant and Danielle has started 'nesting'. Tony, her husband, had the project of painting the bathroom and we all decided that it is much more fun to paint with friends so we all chipped in (pictures below!) Carrie, an old friend from camp, arrived that night. We (a bunch of my friends and I) spent the day on Saturday watching The Office. We are in the middle of a marathon and watched 20 episodes. It was A LOT of TV but it was a great day! I can't describe how blessed I feel to have this group of friends down here. It is very unique. Carrie and I are staying with McNabb and Jason this week since there other roommate is out of town. Sunday, we woke up and just talked for awhile before heading out on a walk with the dog, lunch at Wendy's, and an afternoon filled with football. We had a cookout last night at the girls house with lots of great food. Today, I started teaching! Yes, that's right, somehow I got lucky enough to get a paying job teaching English at my Spanish school. I am only teaching three days this week but it's fun! The guy I'm teaching is probably 45 or 50. He is getting his Masters' right and he is an Environment Engineer. Carrie and I are plannin on a few day trips this week before heading out in the country side next week! We are planning on going to Semac Champey and Rio Dulce so both places should be very interesting! I'm excited to see an area of Guatemala that I have yet to see!
That's about it with me this weekend! Not too much excitement but I have had a very nice weekend and I can't believe that I have almost been here for three weeks! The time flies here! I hope that everyone state-side is having a wonderful November and if I don't update before everyone takes off for Thanksgiving, travel safely and enjoy the time with family! I know I will be missing mine next week! Love to you all!
Viva La Vida!
Liz
Salsa Dancing (for those of you wondering what it's like)
Tony and I painting the bathroom Thunder Blue!
Danielle was attempting to get as much fresh air as possible! This is where they live!
Painting...
McNabb, Tony, and I before the painting begun, notice how all of our shirts are still white!
Playlist:
Bailamos by Enrique Iglesias
La Bumba by Los Lobos
Square One by Coldplay
Mexico by James Taylor
It wasn't Me by Jenny Lewis with The Watson Twins
Renaissance by Matt Kearney
Wink by Neal McCoy
Sweet Southern Comfort by Buddy Jewel
Unto You by Shane and Shane
Hello Darlin' by Conway Twitty
Have You Got It In You by Imogen Heap
Dogs by Damien Rice
That's about it with me this weekend! Not too much excitement but I have had a very nice weekend and I can't believe that I have almost been here for three weeks! The time flies here! I hope that everyone state-side is having a wonderful November and if I don't update before everyone takes off for Thanksgiving, travel safely and enjoy the time with family! I know I will be missing mine next week! Love to you all!
Viva La Vida!
Liz
(Pictures below!)
Salsa Dancing (for those of you wondering what it's like)
Tony and I painting the bathroom Thunder Blue!
Danielle was attempting to get as much fresh air as possible! This is where they live!
Painting...
McNabb, Tony, and I before the painting begun, notice how all of our shirts are still white!Playlist:
Bailamos by Enrique Iglesias
La Bumba by Los Lobos
Square One by Coldplay
Mexico by James Taylor
It wasn't Me by Jenny Lewis with The Watson Twins
Renaissance by Matt Kearney
Wink by Neal McCoy
Sweet Southern Comfort by Buddy Jewel
Unto You by Shane and Shane
Hello Darlin' by Conway Twitty
Have You Got It In You by Imogen Heap
Dogs by Damien Rice
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Salsa
written Wednesday night (late!):
I had quite the experience tonight. It stated out very innocent with a dance class at the school. I was a little nervous about it being so late (it started at 8) because I would have to walk home by myself after 9. When I arrived, I saw one other girl and thought that this whole experience would be quite embarrassing. I had never actually been Salsa Dancing and I knew my novice status would shine quite brightly. I had spent the afternoon at my favorite coffee shop (once again) and then met Randi for dinner. I walked with her back down the hill and we headed out separate ways. I was very set on NOT going dancing at a club after the class so I intentionally wore the same thrift store T-shirt that I had been wearing all day that I had bought the weekend before that has the letter “XFL” across the chest (that was a long sentence. Sorry for the poor structure). Anyway, I walked into the school and saw the director and he greeted me and introduced me to his friends who were there to dance also. Soon, the room filled with the other girls (all of the Holland girls) and they separated us into beginners and advanced. To start off, it was just one other girl and I who were the beginners. Soon, all of the other men jumped in with the beginner class and we were following the 1-2-3, 5-6-7 step pattern. We added turns and different directions and I was please with my progress for the evening. We finally paired off and I danced with my teacher from last week, Juilo (sidenote: He is a wonderful guy, a great teacher, and probably weights a buck 10.) We danced until we got some of the basic steps down and as the hour closed in on the lesson, all I could think about was my charming bed (hard, a little lumpy, and not too comfortable, but I like it all the same). After I grabbed a glass a water (you work up quite a sweat) I gathered my things and headed for the door. I didn’t get two steps when I was bombarded with the question of where I was going. I was going home, of course! Well, it didn’t take long for 4 Guatemalan men and two Dutch girls to convince me otherwise. I was going dancing, ‘XFL’ shirt and all!
We arrived at La Parunda, paid the two dollar entry fee, and made out way to a table in the back. There were Salsa lesson’s going on in the form of a line dance and the Dutch language filled my head. It didn’t take long before a few of us were back on the dance floor practicing the moves we just learned. We soon returned to our seats as a few of the ‘experts’ were showing all of the Spanish school students how this was really done. (Sidenote: This place was FULL of gringos. I think there was a representive from every Spanish school in Xela and considering there are more than 20 schools here, that’s a lot of non-Guatemalans). Soon, the ‘experts’ left the floor and it was open to all the newbies. Well, the men from our school didn’t hesitate too long before coming over and covering the first shift of dancing. At this point, there is a nervous stirring in my stomach as I have flashbacks to junior high wondering if I am ever going to make it out on the dance floor. There is a fear that resides deep inside me that only shows up at times like this. Here I am, in my chacos, hair pulled up in a pony tail, jeans and my thrift store t-shirt (which at this point, I was wondering what the XFL stood for and I prayed that it wasn’t anything offensive or promiscuous).
It wasn’t long before I was out on the dance floor with a man who has 10 years on me with a name I can’t pronounce. Luckily, I have spent my fair share of hours in country dance halls and I know all the fancy spins (they are no different in Salsa, just a different basic rhythm to follow, that happens to be very fast). I picked it up very easily and my partner was pleased with my ability to get around on the dance floor. Yes, there were times that I missed a step or spun the wrong direction, but it again shows me that there are many other ways to communicate without using words. I ended up staying until 12:30. All of the Holland girls had left and the men of the school had ‘rescued’ from all the Dutch and expected me to speak to them in English. As much as I appreciated the gesture of making sure I was having fun, I really didn’t mind not having to speak at all. For the next 45 minutes, they made jokes about how strong I was (I’m glad they realized I could break them in half) and spoke very slowly so I could understand.
It ended up being quite an evening (and a late one at that) and one that I won’t forget anytime soon. One of the men walked with me to get a cab and even made sure that I made it to my house. My only fear is that my telephone will ring soon (the guy ended up getting my number, ‘just in case something happens’) and the only thing that will be spoken on the other end will be Spanish. (update, I have had two unknown numbers call but I'm scared to answer because I don't want to sumble through my Spanish...let's see how long I can avoid this!)
A few other things:
While at school today, Letty and I were talking with another teacher and student and somehow the conversation turned to my legs. They went on and on about how big they were and how I shouldn't wear shorts (in a joking way) on the street because they would be a distraction. What they don't realize is that in the US it is not okay to talk about how I would 'snap a Guatemalans neck with those legs' or describe them like the trunks of arbols (trees). Oh, the life in a different culture! They just don't understand that I am a Cromwell!!!
I had quite the experience tonight. It stated out very innocent with a dance class at the school. I was a little nervous about it being so late (it started at 8) because I would have to walk home by myself after 9. When I arrived, I saw one other girl and thought that this whole experience would be quite embarrassing. I had never actually been Salsa Dancing and I knew my novice status would shine quite brightly. I had spent the afternoon at my favorite coffee shop (once again) and then met Randi for dinner. I walked with her back down the hill and we headed out separate ways. I was very set on NOT going dancing at a club after the class so I intentionally wore the same thrift store T-shirt that I had been wearing all day that I had bought the weekend before that has the letter “XFL” across the chest (that was a long sentence. Sorry for the poor structure). Anyway, I walked into the school and saw the director and he greeted me and introduced me to his friends who were there to dance also. Soon, the room filled with the other girls (all of the Holland girls) and they separated us into beginners and advanced. To start off, it was just one other girl and I who were the beginners. Soon, all of the other men jumped in with the beginner class and we were following the 1-2-3, 5-6-7 step pattern. We added turns and different directions and I was please with my progress for the evening. We finally paired off and I danced with my teacher from last week, Juilo (sidenote: He is a wonderful guy, a great teacher, and probably weights a buck 10.) We danced until we got some of the basic steps down and as the hour closed in on the lesson, all I could think about was my charming bed (hard, a little lumpy, and not too comfortable, but I like it all the same). After I grabbed a glass a water (you work up quite a sweat) I gathered my things and headed for the door. I didn’t get two steps when I was bombarded with the question of where I was going. I was going home, of course! Well, it didn’t take long for 4 Guatemalan men and two Dutch girls to convince me otherwise. I was going dancing, ‘XFL’ shirt and all!
We arrived at La Parunda, paid the two dollar entry fee, and made out way to a table in the back. There were Salsa lesson’s going on in the form of a line dance and the Dutch language filled my head. It didn’t take long before a few of us were back on the dance floor practicing the moves we just learned. We soon returned to our seats as a few of the ‘experts’ were showing all of the Spanish school students how this was really done. (Sidenote: This place was FULL of gringos. I think there was a representive from every Spanish school in Xela and considering there are more than 20 schools here, that’s a lot of non-Guatemalans). Soon, the ‘experts’ left the floor and it was open to all the newbies. Well, the men from our school didn’t hesitate too long before coming over and covering the first shift of dancing. At this point, there is a nervous stirring in my stomach as I have flashbacks to junior high wondering if I am ever going to make it out on the dance floor. There is a fear that resides deep inside me that only shows up at times like this. Here I am, in my chacos, hair pulled up in a pony tail, jeans and my thrift store t-shirt (which at this point, I was wondering what the XFL stood for and I prayed that it wasn’t anything offensive or promiscuous).
It wasn’t long before I was out on the dance floor with a man who has 10 years on me with a name I can’t pronounce. Luckily, I have spent my fair share of hours in country dance halls and I know all the fancy spins (they are no different in Salsa, just a different basic rhythm to follow, that happens to be very fast). I picked it up very easily and my partner was pleased with my ability to get around on the dance floor. Yes, there were times that I missed a step or spun the wrong direction, but it again shows me that there are many other ways to communicate without using words. I ended up staying until 12:30. All of the Holland girls had left and the men of the school had ‘rescued’ from all the Dutch and expected me to speak to them in English. As much as I appreciated the gesture of making sure I was having fun, I really didn’t mind not having to speak at all. For the next 45 minutes, they made jokes about how strong I was (I’m glad they realized I could break them in half) and spoke very slowly so I could understand.
It ended up being quite an evening (and a late one at that) and one that I won’t forget anytime soon. One of the men walked with me to get a cab and even made sure that I made it to my house. My only fear is that my telephone will ring soon (the guy ended up getting my number, ‘just in case something happens’) and the only thing that will be spoken on the other end will be Spanish. (update, I have had two unknown numbers call but I'm scared to answer because I don't want to sumble through my Spanish...let's see how long I can avoid this!)
A few other things:
While at school today, Letty and I were talking with another teacher and student and somehow the conversation turned to my legs. They went on and on about how big they were and how I shouldn't wear shorts (in a joking way) on the street because they would be a distraction. What they don't realize is that in the US it is not okay to talk about how I would 'snap a Guatemalans neck with those legs' or describe them like the trunks of arbols (trees). Oh, the life in a different culture! They just don't understand that I am a Cromwell!!!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
A few things I forgot to include in my 'random' blog:
- I made friends with two indigenous girls in the park Saturday night. Their names are Maria and Alli. They are probably 8 and 9. I like them a lot.
- I was walking down the road today and two boys (6 and 8) were passing a clothing store and grabbed the mannequin's arm. It fell off and all three of us laughed. I helped put the arm back on.
- I met three travelers this weekend. One is traveling for a year and making his way South. I want to be friends with him.
- It's okay to park on sidewalks here, actually, it's what you are suppose to do.
Monday, November 10, 2008
The blog of randomness:
This dog lives on my new street. He doesn't have a name yet but he will soon! Any suggestions are welcome!
Perrito! This dog was my favorite last year. He often wore a green sweatshirt when it was cold outside. I greet this dog everytime I see it with, "Hola Perrito, como estas?" I like him a lot.
One view of my room. Sorry it's mess but I wanted to show it to you all anyway!
Another view of my room. It's small but it is sufficient.
I walk down this street almost everyday. Just thought you would like to see where I spend my days...
Playlist:
Rest of my Life by Rilo Kelley
Buffalo Soldier by Bob Marley
Track 10 by Pulp
I'm Done by Jo Dee Messina
I'm Yours by Jason Mraz
- I felt my first earthquake since I got back this weekend. Pretty exciting!
- Perrito (my favorite dog from last spring) was thought to be gone, but returned this weekend. (pictured below!)
- I have to pour a bucket of water down the toilet for it to flush.
- I often get words mixed up in Spanish, making my teachers laugh when I use anos instead of años ('anus' instead of 'years').
- The guy I bought avocados from last year isn't around any more. This makes me sad.
- I was at a Flaminco dance recital Saturday night and some of the older students from IAS were in the balcony throwing stuff. I was lucky to get two pieces of gum in my hair. I wasn't happy about this.
- I am only the third American to be a student at my Spanish school in three years (most are Dutch).
- I was happy to see that my shower was plastic instead of metal this year, thus minimizing the 'shock' value! (I was shocked a lot last year in the shower due to the eletric heating method. They would have live wires in the shower to heat the water with a metal shower head. Anytime you would accidently touch the shower head, you would get shocked. Interesting by true!)
- I have eaten more hotdogs in the last week than I have in the last two years!
- Couples think it is okay to make out in coffee shops, on the streets, on the bus, ect. (not okay with me!)
- Most dogs are kept on the roof of the houses here.
- Life is interesting here. You should come check it out!!!
(some random pictures to go along with the random posting!)
This dog lives on my new street. He doesn't have a name yet but he will soon! Any suggestions are welcome!
Perrito! This dog was my favorite last year. He often wore a green sweatshirt when it was cold outside. I greet this dog everytime I see it with, "Hola Perrito, como estas?" I like him a lot.
One view of my room. Sorry it's mess but I wanted to show it to you all anyway!
Another view of my room. It's small but it is sufficient.
I walk down this street almost everyday. Just thought you would like to see where I spend my days...Playlist:
Rest of my Life by Rilo Kelley
Buffalo Soldier by Bob Marley
Track 10 by Pulp
I'm Done by Jo Dee Messina
I'm Yours by Jason Mraz
Saturday, November 8, 2008
La Boda en Guatemala!
Last night I experienced something that I never have before (and I'm not sure I want to again); a wedding that last 5 1/2 hours! It was the wedding of Jackie, the daughter of the lady I live with. I was honored that I was invited and felt that it was important that I go. And, seeing a wedding in another culture is always fun! I'll try to fill you in on the highlights!
The wedding was slated to start at 4:00. I left the house at 3:40 to walk to Woon Kook (yes, that is correct, the wedding was in a Chinese restaurant). When I left, the bride was still at the house was getting ready. I headed to the local textile store to pick up a present and then headed to my destination. Usually, I like to get to weddings at least 10-15 minutes early but I figured that I could get there at 4 and be okay considering Latin time...so, I arrived at 4 and was surprised to see that I was one of seven people there (the other six were the family of the groom!) Luckily, I knew one of the ladies there (we worked together at the school last spring). I found a seat and prepared myself for the akward Spanish conversations that I knew would take place due to my novice experience with the language (conversationally). The bride and her mother finally arrive at 4:15. By this time, I was starting to wonder if anyone would notice if I slipped out and left. I was starting to feel really uncomfortable and this whole process of waiting for the wedding to begin was wearing on me. Everything got underway at 4:45 and I was a little confused by what was going on. The bride was in a red dress and from what I could tell, there was nothing about God being mentioned (this family is very religious). After about 20-30 minutes, everyone clapped and people started lining up to sign a piece of paper that was on the table that the bride and groom were sitting at. I figured this was the marriage lisense and the 'witnesses' were signing it as well. I didn't realize that half the guest felt like they needed to sign it as well. I was happy to see that the sun was still up and I would be able to meet up with my friends for the normal Friday night routine. After everyone sat down, the guy who was MCing the whole process said that we would have a 20 minutes 'cafeito' break and then continue. What? Continue? There's more? I looked at Vero (the lady from school) and she just smiled. She walked over after the couple left and told me that there were two parts to Guatemalan weddings. We had just had the civil wedding and now it was time for the religous wedding. Okay, this is my time to split, I thought. I looked for my getaway path and low and behold, the director of my spanish school walks in. He walks right up to me and starts talking to me. Crap! I'm caught. Needless to say, I stayed for the second part of the wedding (where the room transformed from lots of red to lots of white, including the dress the bride was wearing) as well and tried my best to enjoy it. I understood part of what was being said but didn't get it all. We finished with the ceremony parts at 6:45ish and it was already dark. I was going to have to stay until the end because I didn't want to walk by myself in that part of town. Over the next 3 hours, I stumbled through numerous conversations, ate Chinese food, particiapated in the bouquet toss (which was actually tossed 4 times...don't ask me why, I couldn't figure it out!), and took a few pictures that I will include at the end of this entry! It was a night that I will never forget!
By the time I got home, I was ready to collapse into bed. As I was getting ready to turn in for the night, I received a message from McNabb saying that they were going to have a Hookah night. I gladly accepted the invitation, packed a small bag, and headed over. I finished off a long day of Spanish hanging out with great friends and getting the best night sleep I had in a long time (McNabb's roommate was out of town so I just stayed there so I wouldn't have to walk home).
Today I went to Minerva Market with Lorrie and Randi. They discovered earlier this year that they have super cheap clothes at the Pacas (Thrift stores) out there. I found four things that I couldn't pass up! And to think that they were only 1 Q (about $0.13) each!
There is a dance recital that I am attending this evening. It will be similar to the one that I went to last spring with lots of Flamico dancing and big dresses! After that, I'm planning on meeting up with two girls that I have met in my school who are from Belgium. It should be interesting!
Viva la Vida!
Liz
Letty and my housemate!
Letty's feet were hurting and I am never without my Chaco's so I let her borrow them!
The Bride and Groom with friends
My housemate and Jackie, the bride
Playlist:
Love Will Tear Us Apart by Joy Division
Dreadful Selfish Crime by Robert Earl Keen
Love You Out Loud by Rascal Flats
Over My Head by The Fray (thinking of you Shenoldy!)
Mansturd Roof by Vampire Weekend
This is How We Do by The Game
The Little Things by Colbie Caillat
Always on His Mind by Misty Edwards
They Outside by Taylor Swift
I think We're Alone Now by Tiffany
The wedding was slated to start at 4:00. I left the house at 3:40 to walk to Woon Kook (yes, that is correct, the wedding was in a Chinese restaurant). When I left, the bride was still at the house was getting ready. I headed to the local textile store to pick up a present and then headed to my destination. Usually, I like to get to weddings at least 10-15 minutes early but I figured that I could get there at 4 and be okay considering Latin time...so, I arrived at 4 and was surprised to see that I was one of seven people there (the other six were the family of the groom!) Luckily, I knew one of the ladies there (we worked together at the school last spring). I found a seat and prepared myself for the akward Spanish conversations that I knew would take place due to my novice experience with the language (conversationally). The bride and her mother finally arrive at 4:15. By this time, I was starting to wonder if anyone would notice if I slipped out and left. I was starting to feel really uncomfortable and this whole process of waiting for the wedding to begin was wearing on me. Everything got underway at 4:45 and I was a little confused by what was going on. The bride was in a red dress and from what I could tell, there was nothing about God being mentioned (this family is very religious). After about 20-30 minutes, everyone clapped and people started lining up to sign a piece of paper that was on the table that the bride and groom were sitting at. I figured this was the marriage lisense and the 'witnesses' were signing it as well. I didn't realize that half the guest felt like they needed to sign it as well. I was happy to see that the sun was still up and I would be able to meet up with my friends for the normal Friday night routine. After everyone sat down, the guy who was MCing the whole process said that we would have a 20 minutes 'cafeito' break and then continue. What? Continue? There's more? I looked at Vero (the lady from school) and she just smiled. She walked over after the couple left and told me that there were two parts to Guatemalan weddings. We had just had the civil wedding and now it was time for the religous wedding. Okay, this is my time to split, I thought. I looked for my getaway path and low and behold, the director of my spanish school walks in. He walks right up to me and starts talking to me. Crap! I'm caught. Needless to say, I stayed for the second part of the wedding (where the room transformed from lots of red to lots of white, including the dress the bride was wearing) as well and tried my best to enjoy it. I understood part of what was being said but didn't get it all. We finished with the ceremony parts at 6:45ish and it was already dark. I was going to have to stay until the end because I didn't want to walk by myself in that part of town. Over the next 3 hours, I stumbled through numerous conversations, ate Chinese food, particiapated in the bouquet toss (which was actually tossed 4 times...don't ask me why, I couldn't figure it out!), and took a few pictures that I will include at the end of this entry! It was a night that I will never forget!
By the time I got home, I was ready to collapse into bed. As I was getting ready to turn in for the night, I received a message from McNabb saying that they were going to have a Hookah night. I gladly accepted the invitation, packed a small bag, and headed over. I finished off a long day of Spanish hanging out with great friends and getting the best night sleep I had in a long time (McNabb's roommate was out of town so I just stayed there so I wouldn't have to walk home).
Today I went to Minerva Market with Lorrie and Randi. They discovered earlier this year that they have super cheap clothes at the Pacas (Thrift stores) out there. I found four things that I couldn't pass up! And to think that they were only 1 Q (about $0.13) each!
There is a dance recital that I am attending this evening. It will be similar to the one that I went to last spring with lots of Flamico dancing and big dresses! After that, I'm planning on meeting up with two girls that I have met in my school who are from Belgium. It should be interesting!
Viva la Vida!
Liz
Letty and my housemate!
Letty's feet were hurting and I am never without my Chaco's so I let her borrow them!
The Bride and Groom with friends
My housemate and Jackie, the bridePlaylist:
Love Will Tear Us Apart by Joy Division
Dreadful Selfish Crime by Robert Earl Keen
Love You Out Loud by Rascal Flats
Over My Head by The Fray (thinking of you Shenoldy!)
Mansturd Roof by Vampire Weekend
This is How We Do by The Game
The Little Things by Colbie Caillat
Always on His Mind by Misty Edwards
They Outside by Taylor Swift
I think We're Alone Now by Tiffany
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Mid-week update
Four days of Spanish school behind me and one more for this week! My spanish is coming along better than I thought at this point but I did get a little frustrated today because I wasn't following my teacher very well. Oh well, such is life!
I have been spending my mornings (8-1) in school followed by lunch at 2 and then heading to a one of Xela's many charming coffee shops for the afternoon to do homework. I will be in Spanish school again next week and then I will take a two week break while my friend Carrie is here.
Since I haven't given many details about living with a family, I figured I would take a little time and do that! First of all, it's only Spanish, a tiempo! Right now, it's Letty (the house mom), her daughter (Jackie) who is getting married tomorrow, and another boarder (I can't remember her name!). They are all wonderful and help me with my Spanish. I feel bad that they have to speak so slowly and they often find me day dreaming because my brain hurts from concentrating so hard on the conversation. I have been surprised that I haven't eaten any black refried beans yet! I have had many servings of mystery meat (a substance that is similar to bologna) and a lot of tortillas! We have coffee and tea at every meal and it's normal for me to eat a sandwich for breakfast. Also, this is the first time in my life that I have been told that I eat like a bird. It's not like I don't like the food I'm being served (I really do, it taste good) I'm just not getting huge servings. When I told her I don't eat huge servings, she replied with, "But you are very big, you need to eat more." Ah, the honesty that comes along with Guatemalans!
My room is small and dark but it's somewhat charming. I live on the third floor and the bathroom up there doesn't always work. I have to take a shower early in the morning (burrrrr) and I have to pour a bucket of water in the toilet for it to flush. Like I said, quite charming!
On another note, I realized that I didn't bring any DVD's with me so I headed to the Democracia. I went to the same DVD stand that I went to so many times last spring and asked for Blackjack 21. After looking for a little while, we found it and I responded with the normal, "diez, verdad?" He looked at me and said, "No, quince." At this point, I again told him my offer and he refused it once again. It's not like I can't spend the extra 5 Q (about 70 cents), it's about principle at this point. I put the DVD down and walked away. He practically ran me down and sold me the DVD for 10 Q. Victory! Yes! This is just a small example of a culture where everything is negotiable. And I love it! There are so many unspoken variables in this culture, it's just finding the ones that you can cash in on.
Well, I know this was short but I just wanted to check in. I will try to include some pictures in the next post of my room and host family. I am attending the wedding tomorrow so that will be fun to go to a Guatemalan wedding. It's at a Chinese restuarant! You know there will be some good stories after that!
Viva la Vida!
Liz
Playlist:
Let Him Fly by Patty Griffin
Waiting for the Sun to Shine by Lee Ann Womack
You Don't Look the Same When You Are Leaving by Stephen Kellogg
Wedding Dress by Derek Webb
I have been spending my mornings (8-1) in school followed by lunch at 2 and then heading to a one of Xela's many charming coffee shops for the afternoon to do homework. I will be in Spanish school again next week and then I will take a two week break while my friend Carrie is here.
Since I haven't given many details about living with a family, I figured I would take a little time and do that! First of all, it's only Spanish, a tiempo! Right now, it's Letty (the house mom), her daughter (Jackie) who is getting married tomorrow, and another boarder (I can't remember her name!). They are all wonderful and help me with my Spanish. I feel bad that they have to speak so slowly and they often find me day dreaming because my brain hurts from concentrating so hard on the conversation. I have been surprised that I haven't eaten any black refried beans yet! I have had many servings of mystery meat (a substance that is similar to bologna) and a lot of tortillas! We have coffee and tea at every meal and it's normal for me to eat a sandwich for breakfast. Also, this is the first time in my life that I have been told that I eat like a bird. It's not like I don't like the food I'm being served (I really do, it taste good) I'm just not getting huge servings. When I told her I don't eat huge servings, she replied with, "But you are very big, you need to eat more." Ah, the honesty that comes along with Guatemalans!
My room is small and dark but it's somewhat charming. I live on the third floor and the bathroom up there doesn't always work. I have to take a shower early in the morning (burrrrr) and I have to pour a bucket of water in the toilet for it to flush. Like I said, quite charming!
On another note, I realized that I didn't bring any DVD's with me so I headed to the Democracia. I went to the same DVD stand that I went to so many times last spring and asked for Blackjack 21. After looking for a little while, we found it and I responded with the normal, "diez, verdad?" He looked at me and said, "No, quince." At this point, I again told him my offer and he refused it once again. It's not like I can't spend the extra 5 Q (about 70 cents), it's about principle at this point. I put the DVD down and walked away. He practically ran me down and sold me the DVD for 10 Q. Victory! Yes! This is just a small example of a culture where everything is negotiable. And I love it! There are so many unspoken variables in this culture, it's just finding the ones that you can cash in on.
Well, I know this was short but I just wanted to check in. I will try to include some pictures in the next post of my room and host family. I am attending the wedding tomorrow so that will be fun to go to a Guatemalan wedding. It's at a Chinese restuarant! You know there will be some good stories after that!
Viva la Vida!
Liz
Playlist:
Let Him Fly by Patty Griffin
Waiting for the Sun to Shine by Lee Ann Womack
You Don't Look the Same When You Are Leaving by Stephen Kellogg
Wedding Dress by Derek Webb
Monday, November 3, 2008
Halloween Weekend
I have been back in Guatemala for five days now and it feels like I never left. There are new people and a few new places, but for the most part, things are the same as when I left them. There are some changes in how I am approaching this time. I am not teaching so that allows me to go to Spanish school. I am living with a lady and her daughter (who is getting married this week). And, I’m avoiding American food and sugar because I would rather not gain 20 pounds again this time around!
We celebrated Halloween in style Friday night. Halloween isn’t actually a big deal down here. The big thing is Day of the Dead. Randi (one of girls who is still down here from last year) and I went to Todos Santos with the boys Saturday. It was a four hour drive on a long, mountainous, bumpy road. The thing about Todos Santos is that they have horse races on Nov. 1 (Day of the Dead) every year. These aren’t normal horse races because first of all, there is no track. And secondly, the jockey is extremely drunk. So, with those two factors, you can only imagine how entertaining it is! Three of the guys I was with (Pedro, Coco, and Josh) decided that they wanted to ride the horses so they went and talked to the owners and low and behold if not all three of them got to ride. It was very comical! After awhile, Randi and I decided that we were going to go for a walk and as we approached the hill that we parked on, we saw a group of men around Pedro’s car. It took a second to realize that they were moving his car. I didn’t see a tow truck so I couldn’t figure out how they were doing it. That is when I noticed that none of the wheels were on the ground. These men (about 20 of them) were CARRYING his car!!! Needless to say, we called Pedro and he ran right over. The mayor was there and was trying to convince the police to give him a ticket but somehow, we lucked out and we came across the only honest cops in Guatemala. They didn't want to give Pedro a ticket because if they gave him a ticket, they would have to give everyone a ticket! We were very relieved! We ended up leaving shortly after that because we didn’t want the townspeople (who were still upset that we didn't get a ticket) to do anything to his car. It was quite a day!
Sunday was a pretty laid back day. I got a new phone and hung out with friends. I moved into my host family’s house. My room is an average size with a bed, desk, and shelves. It is in a great location so I’m really happy about that. My host mom’s name is Letty and she calls me Betty (it’s the Guatemalan nickname for Elizabeth). I am anxious to see how this turns out! Until then!
Today was my first day of Spanish school and it went well. My teacher is a guy about my age and he likes to laugh at all the things that I mix up...like, To slap vs. To Pay....What's up vs. What World...I already have homework so I should probably get going on that! I will keep you all updated! Below are some pictures from Halloween and this weekend!
Viva La Vida!
The girls on Halloween (Randi, Me, Danielle, and Lorrie)
Randi and I
The races at Todos Santos
Pedro's car being carried! It's not very clear but it's there, I promise!
Playlist:
Because you Loved Me by Celine Dion
Ironic by Alanis Morissette
Summer Love by Justin Timberlake
L.E.S. Artistes by Santogold
I’m Your Man by Michael Buble
We celebrated Halloween in style Friday night. Halloween isn’t actually a big deal down here. The big thing is Day of the Dead. Randi (one of girls who is still down here from last year) and I went to Todos Santos with the boys Saturday. It was a four hour drive on a long, mountainous, bumpy road. The thing about Todos Santos is that they have horse races on Nov. 1 (Day of the Dead) every year. These aren’t normal horse races because first of all, there is no track. And secondly, the jockey is extremely drunk. So, with those two factors, you can only imagine how entertaining it is! Three of the guys I was with (Pedro, Coco, and Josh) decided that they wanted to ride the horses so they went and talked to the owners and low and behold if not all three of them got to ride. It was very comical! After awhile, Randi and I decided that we were going to go for a walk and as we approached the hill that we parked on, we saw a group of men around Pedro’s car. It took a second to realize that they were moving his car. I didn’t see a tow truck so I couldn’t figure out how they were doing it. That is when I noticed that none of the wheels were on the ground. These men (about 20 of them) were CARRYING his car!!! Needless to say, we called Pedro and he ran right over. The mayor was there and was trying to convince the police to give him a ticket but somehow, we lucked out and we came across the only honest cops in Guatemala. They didn't want to give Pedro a ticket because if they gave him a ticket, they would have to give everyone a ticket! We were very relieved! We ended up leaving shortly after that because we didn’t want the townspeople (who were still upset that we didn't get a ticket) to do anything to his car. It was quite a day!
Sunday was a pretty laid back day. I got a new phone and hung out with friends. I moved into my host family’s house. My room is an average size with a bed, desk, and shelves. It is in a great location so I’m really happy about that. My host mom’s name is Letty and she calls me Betty (it’s the Guatemalan nickname for Elizabeth). I am anxious to see how this turns out! Until then!
Today was my first day of Spanish school and it went well. My teacher is a guy about my age and he likes to laugh at all the things that I mix up...like, To slap vs. To Pay....What's up vs. What World...I already have homework so I should probably get going on that! I will keep you all updated! Below are some pictures from Halloween and this weekend!
Viva La Vida!
The girls on Halloween (Randi, Me, Danielle, and Lorrie)
Randi and I
The races at Todos Santos
Pedro's car being carried! It's not very clear but it's there, I promise!Playlist:
Because you Loved Me by Celine Dion
Ironic by Alanis Morissette
Summer Love by Justin Timberlake
L.E.S. Artistes by Santogold
I’m Your Man by Michael Buble
Friday, October 31, 2008
"Welcome Back," Guatemala said!
Back in my favorite cafe, writing this blog! I wish you all could experience this incredible place with me!"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."
Well, I'm here. It was a long hard trip but I finally made it in Wednesday night. I will try to describe my trip but I don't think I could ever do it justice. There is one thing that is for sure, Guatemala greeted me in fashion!
I started out in DC Wednesday morning at the airport at 5:45am. I had my backpack packed and I was ready to start this adventure. I checked in and headed to my gate. My first flight was wonderful. I slept most of the way and woke up in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. I had about an hour before my flight left for Guatemala City so I made a few last minute phone calls to say 'see ya later' and headed to my gate. I was immediately reminded of Guatemala because instead of forming a nice line and being orderly, everyone was standing very close to each other in a big herd. We were boarding by zones and I was in Zone One. I was quick to remember that I needed to push my way through the herd, otherwise, I wouldn't get through. So, as I pushed my way to the front with many 'perdons' and 'lo seintos', my heart was awakened once more to these beautiful people (it helps that I could see all of them since I'm a head taller than most of them!) I found my seat and conveniently stored my carry on in the compartment above me and settled in for the 2 1/2 hour flight. As we were pushing away from the gate, my stomach suddenly growled. I had forgotten to eat. In most situations, this would be fine. I could pick something up at the airport, on the plane, or on the way to my next destination. Well, the Guatemala airport doesn't have the best food selection. The airlines charge for all drinks and food (at least Spirit Air does) and since I'm being thrifty, I'm not going to spend 3 dollars on a bag of chips. And I had to get to the bus station as quickly as possible when I had passed immigration and customs. So, I was out of luck. I was sitting next to a pair of sisters and they were heading down for a mission trip and had lots of breakfast bars and they gave me one (thank God!). I eagerly ate it and fell asleep.
As we approached Guate, I could see 3 volcanoes and the mountain range was so green. I could tell that the rainy season was good to Central America. We landed at 11:35am and I jumped up out of my seat and walked briskly to immigration. I was happy to see that I was one of the first ones there and didn't have to wait. Everything was looking great for me to make the 12:30 bus to Xela. I would arrive around 5 and I could see everyone, have dinner, and play a game of cards. Well, that was the plan, and as most of you know that have been following my journey over the last year, my plans don't always work.
I didn't get my back until 12:15 and I still needed to get cash. I decided to give up on the early bus and just take a 2:30 bus. My friends were expecting me but I figured I would arrive in Guatemalan fashion and be a few hours late.
Well, the bus did leave at 2:30 but it wasn't totally full so the driver proceeded to drive around the City until the bus was full. My head was started to hurt due to not having my daily diet coke (yes, I've become one of those, dang it!) so I figured the best way to fight it off was to try to sleep. We finally filled the bus and headed out on the Guatemalan portion of the Pan-American highway. We were cruising along nicely (and by nicely I mean, we were taking corners at a speed that I wouldn't travel in my Honda Accord, and we were in a big charter bus!) and making good time. I was feeling okay by this time (thanks to the motion sickness patch that is ever so faithful!) and I could see the improvements that had been made on the highway. We passed beautiful fields that were growing huge vegetables in very straight rows. We passed land slides that had been cleaned up and we continued to pick people up and drop them off along this mountainous road. At five o'clock, we had made it far enough on the road that the pavement had run out and we were now on a dirt road. The traffic in front of us was stopped. I was okay with this for the first 20-30 minutes. You can always expect this to happen because of the construction. But when this turned into an hour, I was starting to get restless. We had traveled 1/2 mile in an hour. I was tempted to get my backpack, and start walking. I was starting to feel sick but was trying to fight it off due to the lack of bathroom on this bus. We continued this way for a total of 2 1/2 hours. The only way I can describe it is like this, A dirt road+burning rubber+violent brakes+Charter buses acting like off road vehicles+crazy driving+an ambulance or two+chicken buses cutting people off+Liz getting carsick=trip from hell.
I finally arrived in Xela at 9:30pm. I was close enough to walk to Michael's house (where I was suppose to meet everyone at 5) so I headed there to check in. I'm sure I had a nice greenish tint to my face when I got there but I was still fighting off getting sick (you know, to avoid the whole, hey, it's great to see you, can I go puke in your bathroom?) I ended up heading down to the girls' apartment and ran into a friend on the way down the hill (again, afraid that I was going to get sick in front of him, on the street, like all the drunks often do) and quickly headed on my way. I got to the girls house and was introduced to all the new girls and quickly headed to bed. I changed clothes, arranged my stuff, and brushed my teeth. I couldn't hold out any longer. I finally got sick and immediately felt so much better. I figured it was the perfect way to end this 'perfect' day. This is the same way that I arrived in Xela last January so I felt it was appropriate and even though I felt horrible, it was somewhat familiar.
I went up to the school yesterday and saw the rest of the staff and my incredible kiddos! They have all grown so much and their English has improved tremendously. I couldn't believe it! When I first saw them in the morning, they were really shy and just stared at me, but as the day went on, they got used to the idea that I was back.
We went to dinner last night with my close friends (The Macy's, The Schyder's, Randi, and Tank) and it was great to catch up with everyone. Everyone but Tank was here last year ( I know him from camp) so it was fun hearing stories and looking back at last spring. After dinner, Tank and I walked around for a little bit in search of an open ATM and an open grocery store. It's amazing what you take for granted in the states. He walked me back to the house and I headed to bed. I decided not to get up and go to the school today. I wanted to fill everyone in on what was going on so far and I need to enroll in Spanish school. I have found a lady to live with for the next two weeks. Her daughter is getting married this weekend and she doesn't want to be lonely so I will have the whole upstairs to myself and I will be in the Democracia (the vegetable market). The house is only a 2 minute walk to McNabb's and The Macy's so I will be close to everyone!
I hope everyone has a wonderful Halloween. There is a big gathering tonight so I'm sure I will have updates about that in a few days! Keep in touch!
Viva La Vida!
Liz
Playlist:
Friends in Low Places by Garth Brooks
Crazy by Pat Green
Forgiven by Alanis Morissette
Piano Man by Elton John
All You Need Is Love by Lynden David Hall
Kiss Kiss by Chris Brown
Suffer By Among The Ashes
Stollen Car by Patty Griffin
Fireworks by Neighborhood
Summer Lovin' by Grease cast
Every Day by Rascal Flat
Yeah! by Usher
He Said She Said by Joe Purdy
High and Dry by Radiohead
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Inspiration in the Capital
I left Oklahoma on Thursday. As this (obviously) is saddening, I have had a wonderful time in DC.
The first morning I was here, we went to the Library of Congress and took a private tour. I wasn't too excited about getting up early the first morning of my vacation (especially after a long day traveling the day before) but I was pleasantly surprised at what awaited me in this national treasure! I learned that this library has two copies of every book that has been published in the USA. Yes, that's right, two of each! That's a lot of book! Anyway, as I was listening to our french tour guide, I got a little distracted and my mind started wandering (as it often does) and I came to the conclusion that all the knowledge 
in the USA is contained within these walls (twice over)! I was very impressed by this and I can't wait until I can go back and get my library card and go study in the most magnificent readying room I have ever seen (http://www.nikonians.org/html/resources/reference_library/pix/library_of_congress_reading.jpg). I hope that you all get the chance to see this beautiful place sometime and will take the time to soak in all the details that have gone into it!
I have been to DC quite a bit in the last few years considering Emily and Charlie have been up here. I have seen the Smithsonian's and lounged on the national mall but there is something that we did today that I have never done. One of Emily's friends was running in the Marine Corps
Marathon and since it was such a nice day, we thought we would go check out the run and cheer her on. We got there early and little did I know the impact that these runners would have on me. There were booths set up and the community had really come out to support these runners but all I could see were these people that were giving it their all. Each one of them had put so much time and energy into training and there was a reason and story behind each runner. People ran by with loved ones pictures, veterans carried flags and had names of their buddies on their shirts that hadn't made it home, couples ran by hand in hand, best friends encouraged each other, and one guy even came by on a skate board. He wasn't standing on the skate board, mind you, because he didn't have any legs. This man was sitting on the skate board and propelling himself forward by pushing off the cement with his hands...for 26.2 miles! These things brought tears to my eyes. We stayed and cheered for the runners for 2 hours and my family had to practically drag me away. I was totally tranfixed with the idea of helping and cheering for all these people who were totally vunerable to all of us in their blood, sweat and tears. The least I could do was yell for them and ring my handy cow bell!
We complain about being tired and busy but we have been given so much more than what we use. So, with this, I encourage you to do something today that you wouldn't normally do.
I have two more days in the US before I head out for Guatemala on Wednesday. I am looking forward to spending these days in DC exploring the city a little more but I am ready to get back down there. I have already been thinking about all the things that I have forgotten that I miss (ex. adventures on chicken buses, Perrito and all the other streets dogs, and my favorite street vendor, Pollo Tobi!) I will keep you up to date and you may even get one more blog before I leave the states! Keep in touch!
Viva La Vida,
Liz
(This was a squirrel we saw eating a pumpkin. I have never seen this before and I hope that this little guy doesn't share this knowledge with his squirrely friends...needless to say, I thought it was pretty funny and I hope you guys enjoy it as well!)
Storypeople.com story:
"We lay there & looked up at the night sky & she told me about stars called blue squares & red swirls & I told her I'd never heard of them. Of course not, she said, the really important stuff they never tell you. You have to imagine it on your own."
Playlist:
The Tree Song by Bebo Norman
Me and Mrs. Jones by Michael Buble
Your Smiling Face by James Taylor
Pearls on a String by Ryan Adams
First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes
Sideways by Citizen Cope
God Put A Smile Upon Your Face by Coldplay
The first morning I was here, we went to the Library of Congress and took a private tour. I wasn't too excited about getting up early the first morning of my vacation (especially after a long day traveling the day before) but I was pleasantly surprised at what awaited me in this national treasure! I learned that this library has two copies of every book that has been published in the USA. Yes, that's right, two of each! That's a lot of book! Anyway, as I was listening to our french tour guide, I got a little distracted and my mind started wandering (as it often does) and I came to the conclusion that all the knowledge 
in the USA is contained within these walls (twice over)! I was very impressed by this and I can't wait until I can go back and get my library card and go study in the most magnificent readying room I have ever seen (http://www.nikonians.org/html/resources/reference_library/pix/library_of_congress_reading.jpg). I hope that you all get the chance to see this beautiful place sometime and will take the time to soak in all the details that have gone into it!I have been to DC quite a bit in the last few years considering Emily and Charlie have been up here. I have seen the Smithsonian's and lounged on the national mall but there is something that we did today that I have never done. One of Emily's friends was running in the Marine Corps
Marathon and since it was such a nice day, we thought we would go check out the run and cheer her on. We got there early and little did I know the impact that these runners would have on me. There were booths set up and the community had really come out to support these runners but all I could see were these people that were giving it their all. Each one of them had put so much time and energy into training and there was a reason and story behind each runner. People ran by with loved ones pictures, veterans carried flags and had names of their buddies on their shirts that hadn't made it home, couples ran by hand in hand, best friends encouraged each other, and one guy even came by on a skate board. He wasn't standing on the skate board, mind you, because he didn't have any legs. This man was sitting on the skate board and propelling himself forward by pushing off the cement with his hands...for 26.2 miles! These things brought tears to my eyes. We stayed and cheered for the runners for 2 hours and my family had to practically drag me away. I was totally tranfixed with the idea of helping and cheering for all these people who were totally vunerable to all of us in their blood, sweat and tears. The least I could do was yell for them and ring my handy cow bell!We complain about being tired and busy but we have been given so much more than what we use. So, with this, I encourage you to do something today that you wouldn't normally do.
I have two more days in the US before I head out for Guatemala on Wednesday. I am looking forward to spending these days in DC exploring the city a little more but I am ready to get back down there. I have already been thinking about all the things that I have forgotten that I miss (ex. adventures on chicken buses, Perrito and all the other streets dogs, and my favorite street vendor, Pollo Tobi!) I will keep you up to date and you may even get one more blog before I leave the states! Keep in touch!
Viva La Vida,
Liz
(This was a squirrel we saw eating a pumpkin. I have never seen this before and I hope that this little guy doesn't share this knowledge with his squirrely friends...needless to say, I thought it was pretty funny and I hope you guys enjoy it as well!)
Storypeople.com story:
"We lay there & looked up at the night sky & she told me about stars called blue squares & red swirls & I told her I'd never heard of them. Of course not, she said, the really important stuff they never tell you. You have to imagine it on your own."
Playlist:
The Tree Song by Bebo Norman
Me and Mrs. Jones by Michael Buble
Your Smiling Face by James Taylor
Pearls on a String by Ryan Adams
First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes
Sideways by Citizen Cope
God Put A Smile Upon Your Face by Coldplay
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
preparation
I would like to start by apologizing because after my last post, I realized that I had forgotten about my playlist so without saying anything else, the playlist has returned and I am currently listening to 'All My Ex's Live In Texas'...the full list will be at the bottom of the post.
Well, the preparation has started. I am starting to get 'my affairs in order' as some would say. I wouldn't put it that way because I think it sounds like I'm cheating on my husband (which I don't have) or being promiscuous or something (which I'm not being). But anyway, that's what I have been doing recently. I am starting to make the rounds to see my good friends for another round of 'see ya laters' and checking the travel websites one more time for travel advisories (yes, I am one of those that plays it safe). I have also been doing a little research as to what Spanish school I will attend. I have decided that I will stay in Xela for Spanish school due to rule of elimination. My choices were Xela, Antigua, San Pedro (Lago de Atitlan), or a small village. Antigua is the center of all that is tourist so I figured that wouldn't be good for the cultural experience. San Pedro is beautiful but supposedly, it is at one of those energy spots on earth so there are all sorts of new age things that go on. Emily (my sister) found this picture online and warned me that if I go to San Pedro, I may come home with a boyfriend that looks like this http://blogs.knoxnews.com/knx/brown/archives/JoeyIsrael.gif. You must understand, I have nothing against dreadlocks or bearded men but I would rather experience Guatemala for what it is worth. I can get all the dreads and beards in the USA. And for the village, I think it would be a great oppurtunity to have total and complete immersion but the thought of potentially being the only gringa around makes me a little nervous. Thus, I decided on staying in Xela. I am really happy about this. I will be able to see my friends that are down there a little more even though I am going to try to branch out some as well. I feel like Xela is the perfect combination of all the things I am looking for. I looked at a few schools today (http://www.xelapages.com/juansisay/ and http://www.sakribal.com/). The first one has a volunteer oppurtunity that looks especially inviting. If I bring some medical supplies as a donation, I will be able to stand in on a surgical procedure. Pretty cool, right? Needless to say, I'm pretty pumped about it. After reading that, however, it made me realize even more how much I DON'T want to have surgery in Guatemala so if you all could do me a favor and send up a prayer for my health while I am there, I would greatly appreciate it!
I would love to hear about what is going on with all of you so please don't hesitate to send an email (liz.cromwell@gmail.com) with an update of you and your family!
Vive La Vida!
Liz
P.S. I have a new favorite wedsite. It is www.storypeople.com. I am going to include a snipit from this website from now on when I think about it! Here's the first one:
"Leaning out as far as she can, hoping she'll fall soon, so she can stop worrying about whether it will happen or not."
Playlist:
All my ex's Live in Texas by George Straight
Jump (for my love) by The Pointer Sisters
Uptown Girl by Billy Joel
Something More by Jenny Owens
Redneck Woman by Gretchen Wilson
Train Under Water by Bright Eyes
Shake your Bon Bon by Ricky Martin
Fake Plastic Trees by Radiohead
Well, the preparation has started. I am starting to get 'my affairs in order' as some would say. I wouldn't put it that way because I think it sounds like I'm cheating on my husband (which I don't have) or being promiscuous or something (which I'm not being). But anyway, that's what I have been doing recently. I am starting to make the rounds to see my good friends for another round of 'see ya laters' and checking the travel websites one more time for travel advisories (yes, I am one of those that plays it safe). I have also been doing a little research as to what Spanish school I will attend. I have decided that I will stay in Xela for Spanish school due to rule of elimination. My choices were Xela, Antigua, San Pedro (Lago de Atitlan), or a small village. Antigua is the center of all that is tourist so I figured that wouldn't be good for the cultural experience. San Pedro is beautiful but supposedly, it is at one of those energy spots on earth so there are all sorts of new age things that go on. Emily (my sister) found this picture online and warned me that if I go to San Pedro, I may come home with a boyfriend that looks like this http://blogs.knoxnews.com/knx/brown/archives/JoeyIsrael.gif. You must understand, I have nothing against dreadlocks or bearded men but I would rather experience Guatemala for what it is worth. I can get all the dreads and beards in the USA. And for the village, I think it would be a great oppurtunity to have total and complete immersion but the thought of potentially being the only gringa around makes me a little nervous. Thus, I decided on staying in Xela. I am really happy about this. I will be able to see my friends that are down there a little more even though I am going to try to branch out some as well. I feel like Xela is the perfect combination of all the things I am looking for. I looked at a few schools today (http://www.xelapages.com/juansisay/ and http://www.sakribal.com/). The first one has a volunteer oppurtunity that looks especially inviting. If I bring some medical supplies as a donation, I will be able to stand in on a surgical procedure. Pretty cool, right? Needless to say, I'm pretty pumped about it. After reading that, however, it made me realize even more how much I DON'T want to have surgery in Guatemala so if you all could do me a favor and send up a prayer for my health while I am there, I would greatly appreciate it!
I would love to hear about what is going on with all of you so please don't hesitate to send an email (liz.cromwell@gmail.com) with an update of you and your family!
Vive La Vida!
Liz
P.S. I have a new favorite wedsite. It is www.storypeople.com. I am going to include a snipit from this website from now on when I think about it! Here's the first one:
"Leaning out as far as she can, hoping she'll fall soon, so she can stop worrying about whether it will happen or not."
Playlist:
All my ex's Live in Texas by George Straight
Jump (for my love) by The Pointer Sisters
Uptown Girl by Billy Joel
Something More by Jenny Owens
Redneck Woman by Gretchen Wilson
Train Under Water by Bright Eyes
Shake your Bon Bon by Ricky Martin
Fake Plastic Trees by Radiohead
Thursday, October 2, 2008
It's official!
Well, it's official! I have finally bought my ticket to return to Central America! My time in Enid has been wonderful and filled with many friends, great family, and extraordinary memories from the last four months but the time has come for me to return to Latin America! I will be heading out October 23 to spend some time with my sister in DC before I leave from there the 29th! At this point, I have only bought a one way ticket (this doesn't mean that I'm never coming back), so I'm not sure when I will return. I have a few different options so we will see how they play out. When I get down there, I am planning on going and visiting friends in Xela (this is where I spent the spring of 2008) and then attending Spanish school somewhere in Guatemala! I have a friend that will be joining me to travel for a few weeks in Guatemala so we will be together for Thanksgiving with the other teachers from IAS and then I am planning on heading to Costa Rica or South America. My plans are up in the air but that's the only way to do it down there because plans are going to change anyway. So, that's what's going on with me.
The time that I have been back in the states has been wonderful. I was able to visit my mom in Louisiana with some great friends. I was also able to see my Texas 'family' a couple times. I spent two weeks in DC with Emily and Charlie, and a week in Wyoming and Colorado. I have had time to process and to evaluate what I want to do and what I have been doing since I graduated in December of 2005. I didn't realize how I hadn't taken the time to slow down and look at my life. It has been so refreshing! I have even had time to get bored! In this bordem, I have started looking at what will be after my travels and as I discussed this issue with a friend, the advice that I received was figure it out when I'm in Guatemala! Ha! I don't know if I can do that or not but what I do know is that I will be moving to DC when I return and then to Wyoming after that! (More details on those moves later)
I hope that all of you are doing well! Please keep me updated with your lives and be looking for more updates more regularly now that I will be back on the road!
Liz
Saturday, June 28, 2008
I have officially been back in the good 'ol USA for three weeks now and it is finally starting to feel more 'normal'. I have had a busy three weeks as I have seen a bunch of different friends. I am still trying to figure out what is next but I am leaning towards traveling and taking some more time away. I have had lots of time to process and I have realized how little time I had allowed for this in the past months. Once I get something figured out for sure, I will fill everyone in. If anyone is interested in meeting me along the traveling road, please let me know! 
I'm sorry I haven't kept everyone updated but I have had some fun adventures since I have been back so I will write about those soon! The picture to the left is a teaser to what is to come! I'll give you a hint that it happened in Louisiana!
I hope you all are having a great summer!
I'm sorry I haven't kept everyone updated but I have had some fun adventures since I have been back so I will write about those soon! The picture to the left is a teaser to what is to come! I'll give you a hint that it happened in Louisiana!
I hope you all are having a great summer!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Last night in Guate!
I just wanted to let everyone know that I will be home tomorrow, Thursday June 5. I made it to Guatemala City and I'm currently at a bed and breakfast. I will wake up tomorrow and head to the airport! I will arrive in Oklahoma City around 7:30!
I'm looking forward to seeing everyone! I will continue to blog so check in periodically for my next adventures!
liz
I'm looking forward to seeing everyone! I will continue to blog so check in periodically for my next adventures!
liz
Monday, June 2, 2008
The end has come...
I'm back at the new coffee shop that has been a constant in my daily schedule this last week. My classroom is closed for the summer and all my paperwork is done. My kids left last Wednesday with a smile on their faces, waving and saying "See you tomorrow, Miss Crom-Well (that's how they pronounce it) not understanding that I may never see them again. Most of my friends left yesterday and I sit listening to the rain pound the roof. This place is very different after my obligations at IAS are over.I sit here a little choked up and glassy eyed as I think back on this semester. I couldn't have asked for a better way to start 2008 and I pray that what is ahead will be as rewarding as what I have experienced over the last five months. I know that with each different season we have friends that come and go and as the over-used quote says, "will leave footprints on your heart" but I know that the impact that these people have had on me will effect me daily from this moment on. A few things I have learned and will always remember about these wonderful people:
Carrie M.-A little southern charm never did anyone harm (potentially...haha). I have loved spending this spring with you and I feel so incredibly blessed to know you in another capacity outside of camp. You are apart of some of my absolute favorite memories over the years. I'm looking forward to traveling with you for many more years and road tripping with you this summer! (p.s. no one can pull off white trash like you and I! )
Soups-You are one of the most loyal people I know. You love people so well and it was obvious in the way your kids responded to your leaving. I would have never expected to be living with you at this point in my life but the amount I have learned from you is immeasurable. You have been a constant encouragement to me over the last seven years and always remember I love you, BAAAABBBBYYYY! haha!!!
Randi-Five months isn't a very long time in the grand sense of things but to see how you have made your way into my life and become a very dear friend in that amount of time is shocking. I have enjoyed 'living' with you and our many Caurtito afternoons. You have challenged me spiritually, intellectually, and well, with your mad dance moves! I'm looking forward to hashing out episodes of LOST with you and maybe we can even squeeze another showing of Step Up 2 in there somewhere! I'm going to miss you and keep those Pac boys in line for me! No way, Jose. Ha!
McNabb-From the 'erosion' method to 'just five more minutes' it is obvious that you are a quality time person and I'm so blessed to call you one of my best guy friends. You finally 'eroded' me down and got me to come to Guatemala and I hope that our paths will continue to cross throughout the years and that we have many more adventures ahead of us. You are an incredible guy! Snoop Dogg anyone?!?
The Macy's-From the green mohawk so many years ago to Flo Rida's Low, you both have been great friends to me and I will continue making you be my friend! Thanks for always looking out and being so including in all that you do! I love you guys and wish you the best in the rest of your stint at IAS!
The Schnyders'-Thanks for being such a wonderful example of what a marriage should look like that has a wonderful balance of being involved in the social community and having 'date nights' (whatever those might consist of...haha)! I am thankful for the time spent with you both and thanks again for teaching us hand and foot! It was a wonderful procrastination tool!Well, as you can see below, it took me quite awhile to write this blog but due to the tropical storm that decided to grace us with it's presences, my plans have changed and Emily and I are cancelling our weekend trip so I will be back in the states this Thursday! I'm excited to be heading back but as you can tell, this semester has been wonderful and it's hard to leave such a wonderful place and such dear friends!
For all of you that are in Oklahoma, I will be there this weekend! Love you all and I'm looking forward to spending time with all of you!
Vive La Vida!
Liz
Playlist:
A Country Boy Can Survive by Hank
Holy Water by Big and Rich
When All is Said and Done by Tyrone Wells
Jump (for my love) by The Pointer Sisters
Always a Women to Me by Billy Joel
Love Will Tear Us Apart by Joy Division
Intanbul (Not Constaninople) by They Might Be Giants
Writing to Reach You by Travis
The Long Way Home by Norah Jones
The Trouble With Love Is by Kelly Clarkson
Red Dirt Road by Brooks and Dun
Between the Lines by Sara Bareilles
My Oh My by David Gray
Bad by Micheal Jackson
Stay Beautiful by Taylor Swift
Angel by Aerosmith
Til Kingdom Come by Coldplay
Dig by Jars of Clay
Changes in Latitudes by Jimmy Buffett
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