Thursday, August 20, 2009
Home sweet home :)
I arrived in Houston this morning around 6 a.m. My mom and John walked up just as I walked through customs. I have since enjoyed changing into clean clothes, a cup of ice-cold sweet tea, catching up with my family, and just enjoying being warm and summer!! I hadn't realized how much I missed Texas and everything that comes with it :)
Sunday, August 16, 2009
So close
to being home!
Here´s my thought - if I was staying longer, I wouldn´t mind it at all. But since I´m going home...I´m really excited!! I´ve also gotten really bad about keeping my daily journal....so the last blog installment (which should come tomorrow or Tues) will be weak sauce.
I´ve been hanging out with a new group of peeps this weekend. Saturday, we went to Tigre and it was BEAUTIFUL. As I sat on the top deck of the boat (we toured the delta) in my DRESS and soaked in the SUN....it was heavenly.
Last night, I also went out for Indian food with some friends. If you know me, the fact that I was excited to try Indian food and not fearful of what it might be like is a big deal! I got a little nervous when ordering, but when my food came - chicken korma - it was amazing!! Definitely a fan.
Today was brought in with rain and cold again. I slept in, then actually worked on some homework I´ve been meaning to do all summer. I went by the Recoleta market in the afternoon, but it was weird because only about half of the vendors showed up. I think I´m good on souveneirs, save one or two things I´m going to pick up at the store....aka food, because that has seriously been one of the best parts of Buenos Aires for me. Tomorrow is the feriado for San Martin, a favorite hero of the people. He liberated Argentina, as well as Chile and I think Paraguay from Spain. I don´t really have any plans, except to work on my memory book. It´s currently just a drawer full of trash that I need to convert into my book.
Tuesday I´m going to try to find some boots, as well as my last class with Maricel, as well as picking up the rest of my payment from Language Roots.
And then Wednesday will just be last errands and my final class at San Tarsicio! Whew...three months as of today.....three days left as of today. Cool.
Here´s my thought - if I was staying longer, I wouldn´t mind it at all. But since I´m going home...I´m really excited!! I´ve also gotten really bad about keeping my daily journal....so the last blog installment (which should come tomorrow or Tues) will be weak sauce.
I´ve been hanging out with a new group of peeps this weekend. Saturday, we went to Tigre and it was BEAUTIFUL. As I sat on the top deck of the boat (we toured the delta) in my DRESS and soaked in the SUN....it was heavenly.
Last night, I also went out for Indian food with some friends. If you know me, the fact that I was excited to try Indian food and not fearful of what it might be like is a big deal! I got a little nervous when ordering, but when my food came - chicken korma - it was amazing!! Definitely a fan.
Today was brought in with rain and cold again. I slept in, then actually worked on some homework I´ve been meaning to do all summer. I went by the Recoleta market in the afternoon, but it was weird because only about half of the vendors showed up. I think I´m good on souveneirs, save one or two things I´m going to pick up at the store....aka food, because that has seriously been one of the best parts of Buenos Aires for me. Tomorrow is the feriado for San Martin, a favorite hero of the people. He liberated Argentina, as well as Chile and I think Paraguay from Spain. I don´t really have any plans, except to work on my memory book. It´s currently just a drawer full of trash that I need to convert into my book.
Tuesday I´m going to try to find some boots, as well as my last class with Maricel, as well as picking up the rest of my payment from Language Roots.
And then Wednesday will just be last errands and my final class at San Tarsicio! Whew...three months as of today.....three days left as of today. Cool.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Discrimination Lesson :)
I taught my own lesson at San Tarsicio today! It was about discrimination, and it went SO well. I started off with a little game, where about 5 of the 15 kids had stickers. I asked them ¨questions¨, and the kids with stickers got them all right, and the kids wo were either asked unfairly or not given enough time, or something like that. Oh, and if you won you didn´t have homework, so they were into it. Some of the kids got SO frustrated, and then we started talking about the game. Pues, first I told them that whether or not you won didn´t mean you had homework.
We talked for a few minutes before it clicked, and one of the girls was like, It´s like discrimination! And it just flew from there. I also played the John Mayer song ...waiting on the world to change....at the end, for a little listening practice. They loved it, and we played it one last time and everyone sang along. It was a moment to be treasured.
It´s funny, because this morning I observed in another high school, and it was one of those experiences that made me ok with never setting foot in a high school again. The kids were in control of the classroom, so much time was wasted, they were so disrespectful....it was a quilombo. (argentine slang for huge mess). I was more than ready to get out of there.
But then my kids were great. They still like to talk and interrupt each other, but I´ll take that over the other stuff any day. During the break, instead of going to the teacher´s lounge like I normally do, I just chilled with them and showed them my music and pictures. One girl kept exclaiming - look, it´s americans! to which I replied -- i´m an American too, you know. It was funny. And they all exclaimed when I showed them pictures of the A&M football field. It´s great. I love their wonder.
I still have my last (for real this time) class at Quilmes tomorrow, and then my class with Maricel. But go me, I already made the lesson plans, so really, my work here is done. Aside from getting the final souveneirs and getting my plata exchanged, I´m just chillin´for the last 5 days. sweet. I think now I´m going to go to the Lenguas Vivas library. No tengo ganas de ir....I´m SO tired of the subte, but I need to at least check it out.
I can´t believe that this time next week I will be home! It feels a little surreal...
We talked for a few minutes before it clicked, and one of the girls was like, It´s like discrimination! And it just flew from there. I also played the John Mayer song ...waiting on the world to change....at the end, for a little listening practice. They loved it, and we played it one last time and everyone sang along. It was a moment to be treasured.
It´s funny, because this morning I observed in another high school, and it was one of those experiences that made me ok with never setting foot in a high school again. The kids were in control of the classroom, so much time was wasted, they were so disrespectful....it was a quilombo. (argentine slang for huge mess). I was more than ready to get out of there.
But then my kids were great. They still like to talk and interrupt each other, but I´ll take that over the other stuff any day. During the break, instead of going to the teacher´s lounge like I normally do, I just chilled with them and showed them my music and pictures. One girl kept exclaiming - look, it´s americans! to which I replied -- i´m an American too, you know. It was funny. And they all exclaimed when I showed them pictures of the A&M football field. It´s great. I love their wonder.
I still have my last (for real this time) class at Quilmes tomorrow, and then my class with Maricel. But go me, I already made the lesson plans, so really, my work here is done. Aside from getting the final souveneirs and getting my plata exchanged, I´m just chillin´for the last 5 days. sweet. I think now I´m going to go to the Lenguas Vivas library. No tengo ganas de ir....I´m SO tired of the subte, but I need to at least check it out.
I can´t believe that this time next week I will be home! It feels a little surreal...
Monday, August 10, 2009
Dia del Nino
Sunday, August 9th
Needless to say, I didn’t do much today. It was Dia del Nino, so Maria Laura bought some facturas for breakfast. I enjoyed my standard two pieces of toast, as well as a yummy biscuit filled with dulce de lecho and some churros…which I dipped in dulce de leche.
I pittered around the house all afternoon, as well as napped. At 5, I headed to mass at my church, which requires a longer walk but was so worth it. After mass, I just came home and set up my appointments for this week. I don’t really have lesson plans because I only have two students left – Maricel y Patricia. With Maricel, we’re just finishing the conditionals. We’ll review the first two today, and then maybe start the 3rd. With Patricia, I just need to touch up one of my articles, as well as I think we’ll briefly review some of the simpler tenses just to perfect a few rules she has forgotten.
The thing that’s making me nervous this week is my class about discrimination with the high school kids. Obviously I have to make it fun, interesting, and of course, educational. I’m supposed to meet with Paz tomorrow to work on it though. Jon leaves tomorrow, after which I don’t really have anyone who I hang out with here anymore, until Lia gets back from her trip around Friday. I’m not worried though – if I play my cards right I should be observing in a school or in a library every day. I emailed two more teachers, and so I’m going to get two more high school observations (….3 total), but one of them is at the ‘premiere’ high school in Buenos Aires. The only school I haven’t been able to get inside is a public high school, but I at least have an idea of them from the Ministry people. They’re basically understaffed and underfunded. Go figure.
Needless to say, I didn’t do much today. It was Dia del Nino, so Maria Laura bought some facturas for breakfast. I enjoyed my standard two pieces of toast, as well as a yummy biscuit filled with dulce de lecho and some churros…which I dipped in dulce de leche.
I pittered around the house all afternoon, as well as napped. At 5, I headed to mass at my church, which requires a longer walk but was so worth it. After mass, I just came home and set up my appointments for this week. I don’t really have lesson plans because I only have two students left – Maricel y Patricia. With Maricel, we’re just finishing the conditionals. We’ll review the first two today, and then maybe start the 3rd. With Patricia, I just need to touch up one of my articles, as well as I think we’ll briefly review some of the simpler tenses just to perfect a few rules she has forgotten.
The thing that’s making me nervous this week is my class about discrimination with the high school kids. Obviously I have to make it fun, interesting, and of course, educational. I’m supposed to meet with Paz tomorrow to work on it though. Jon leaves tomorrow, after which I don’t really have anyone who I hang out with here anymore, until Lia gets back from her trip around Friday. I’m not worried though – if I play my cards right I should be observing in a school or in a library every day. I emailed two more teachers, and so I’m going to get two more high school observations (….3 total), but one of them is at the ‘premiere’ high school in Buenos Aires. The only school I haven’t been able to get inside is a public high school, but I at least have an idea of them from the Ministry people. They’re basically understaffed and underfunded. Go figure.
Chinatown
Saturday, August 9th
Tomorrow is Dia de los Ninos. Two weeks ago was dia de amigos, and a few weeks back was dia de abuelos. They’re really big about people days here. It’s a good emphasis, but I think that, like Valentine’s Day, it’s become an industry to encourage economic purchases. Anyways, Maria Laura and Martin were taking Lu today to buy a bike for children’s day. She has been really excited about her bici all week, and I joke with her that she’s going to get a pink one because she hates that color.
I did the general morning routine – reading, bathing, computer emails, etc. I waited until they left before leisurely making my breakfast and a mate cocido. I really like mate, and I wish I drank it more, but it’s kind of messy. If you see me back in the States and you want to try it, ask me and we can make some, I’m bringing back some yerba mate. Inside joke: church John told the customs officials he had “yerba”, which by itself means drugs. Don’t forget to say yerba mate!
At 1, I met up with Jon at the subte station. I was really glad we subte’d because with him around I felt more comfortable about taking pictures. A large part of my trip has involved travelling on the subte, and I didn’t have any pics to document it. I was still really discreet, but I got a few pictures. Also, it’s amazing how different the Pueyyredon stop, which is more downtown, is from say the Olleros stop, which is in Belgrano. Obviously it was added later, and as such it’s bigger, brighter, and just better. There’s also an ad which I LOVE which used to be all over and is now less present. I had seen it at the Olleros stop though, so we got off there and I got my pic. We weren’t at our stop yet though, so we just waited until the next one came.
Then, we were one stop from the end of the station, so we just rode to the Congreso de Tucuman stop so I can now say I’ve been to both ends of the D-line. Didn’t do anything besides step off then back on at Tucuman though.
Finally, made it to the Juramento stop. Oh, the goal today was Chinatown. About 2 blocks in, we hit a plaza with a market. I seriously think that any place with an open area converts into a market on the weekends. This one was more artisanal and had some lovely pieces, but I didn’t get anything. There were hand-crafted dominoes, but they were tiny and didn’t actually scream Argentina, so I passed. I also got a door sign though for my room, but ended up not getting that either.
Then, we finally made it to the barrancas, or a really hilly spot, crossed the train tracks, and entered Chinatown under the arches! Jon chose the restaurant, so we ate at the Porteno Dragon. I got some rice with meat with a green tea, and it was quite good. We had a good time talking about all the places we want to travel to.
We also hit upon a good point I hadn’t realized before. Travelling I think will always be appealing to me. But there’s something SO MUCH FUN about travelling when you’re young. I really don’t think it can be beat. I mean, if I travel when I’m older, ideally I’d have more money and could perhaps eat better, but I don’t mind hostels and cheap food. It’s kind of fun to just go with the flow. And you meet such interesting people and you can just DO stuff. It’s something I don’t want to forget as I plan these next years. Yes, travelling is always an option, but not travelling while I’m young. There’s something wonderful and exciting about it. I suppose the same thing that some people apply to their significant other – how happy that person makes them, etc. That’s how I feel about travelling. It makes me feel alive!
Anyways, good lunch. We walked around the couple of blocks, poking into some of the shops, but didn’t get anything. I was reminded of when I went to Chinatown in New York and all the crap I bought. Back in the 9th grade. Man, that’s so weird to think about how young I was. But seriously, I bought such crap. Maybe I don’t buy better stuff now, but at least I buy less of it.
After that, we just meandered back to the market place, as well as to this HUGE church. I forget it’s real name, but it’s popularly called La Redonda…b/c it’s circular. It was really pretty, and actually bright in the inside because the circle middle lit the place. Then, we headed back to the subte. Oh, I did stop into a computer store and bought two c.d.’s I’m going to burn some of my music for Maria Laura and Lu as part of the going away gift.
We subte’d about 3 stops to Carranza. This was another new area of town for me. We had to walk about 10 blocks. I kept getting confused because we were on a street where all the cross streets ended and had new names. I think it was the boundary of Palermo and Belgrano. We made it to the flea market, which was kind of weird. First of all, it was a really deserted part of town. Secondly, I was expecting junk, or antiques if you will, but it was more furniture. Lots of chairs and sofas, etc. I couldn’t help but think that some of it would be useful in my house next year. Oh, and there were egg chairs, which were cool. There were a few good stalls with paintings, but overall it wasn’t anything I was in the market for.
We subte’d back, and I made it home. I think we might be going to a Beatles cover concert tonight and maybe a boliche. Not sure – Jon leaves on Monday so he’s getting in his last kicks.
Yea, we met up with Jon’s friends from Ecuador and we all went to a boliche called Pacha. It’s supposed to be a cool place for younger people. Thankfully it wasn’t too cold because we had to wait outside for a bit. One of the girls knew someone, so we got discounted entradas, which was helpful. Inside, the scene was crazy. Tons of people, everyone dancing to this electronica music. I really felt like I was in a movie – or rather, in that mojito commercial where he is shaking the drink and everyone moves and then stops when he stops. Because the bass would stop in the music and everyone would stop…it would build back up….and then boom! Everyone goes at it again.
However, the one thing about electronica, for me, is that it all sounds the same, and it’s not like you’re really dancing with anyone. So I would’ve been fine with leaving about an hour in, but we ended up staying until 6 a.m. We cabbed back, and I made it in bed just as the day was beginning.
Tomorrow is Dia de los Ninos. Two weeks ago was dia de amigos, and a few weeks back was dia de abuelos. They’re really big about people days here. It’s a good emphasis, but I think that, like Valentine’s Day, it’s become an industry to encourage economic purchases. Anyways, Maria Laura and Martin were taking Lu today to buy a bike for children’s day. She has been really excited about her bici all week, and I joke with her that she’s going to get a pink one because she hates that color.
I did the general morning routine – reading, bathing, computer emails, etc. I waited until they left before leisurely making my breakfast and a mate cocido. I really like mate, and I wish I drank it more, but it’s kind of messy. If you see me back in the States and you want to try it, ask me and we can make some, I’m bringing back some yerba mate. Inside joke: church John told the customs officials he had “yerba”, which by itself means drugs. Don’t forget to say yerba mate!
At 1, I met up with Jon at the subte station. I was really glad we subte’d because with him around I felt more comfortable about taking pictures. A large part of my trip has involved travelling on the subte, and I didn’t have any pics to document it. I was still really discreet, but I got a few pictures. Also, it’s amazing how different the Pueyyredon stop, which is more downtown, is from say the Olleros stop, which is in Belgrano. Obviously it was added later, and as such it’s bigger, brighter, and just better. There’s also an ad which I LOVE which used to be all over and is now less present. I had seen it at the Olleros stop though, so we got off there and I got my pic. We weren’t at our stop yet though, so we just waited until the next one came.
Then, we were one stop from the end of the station, so we just rode to the Congreso de Tucuman stop so I can now say I’ve been to both ends of the D-line. Didn’t do anything besides step off then back on at Tucuman though.
Finally, made it to the Juramento stop. Oh, the goal today was Chinatown. About 2 blocks in, we hit a plaza with a market. I seriously think that any place with an open area converts into a market on the weekends. This one was more artisanal and had some lovely pieces, but I didn’t get anything. There were hand-crafted dominoes, but they were tiny and didn’t actually scream Argentina, so I passed. I also got a door sign though for my room, but ended up not getting that either.
Then, we finally made it to the barrancas, or a really hilly spot, crossed the train tracks, and entered Chinatown under the arches! Jon chose the restaurant, so we ate at the Porteno Dragon. I got some rice with meat with a green tea, and it was quite good. We had a good time talking about all the places we want to travel to.
We also hit upon a good point I hadn’t realized before. Travelling I think will always be appealing to me. But there’s something SO MUCH FUN about travelling when you’re young. I really don’t think it can be beat. I mean, if I travel when I’m older, ideally I’d have more money and could perhaps eat better, but I don’t mind hostels and cheap food. It’s kind of fun to just go with the flow. And you meet such interesting people and you can just DO stuff. It’s something I don’t want to forget as I plan these next years. Yes, travelling is always an option, but not travelling while I’m young. There’s something wonderful and exciting about it. I suppose the same thing that some people apply to their significant other – how happy that person makes them, etc. That’s how I feel about travelling. It makes me feel alive!
Anyways, good lunch. We walked around the couple of blocks, poking into some of the shops, but didn’t get anything. I was reminded of when I went to Chinatown in New York and all the crap I bought. Back in the 9th grade. Man, that’s so weird to think about how young I was. But seriously, I bought such crap. Maybe I don’t buy better stuff now, but at least I buy less of it.
After that, we just meandered back to the market place, as well as to this HUGE church. I forget it’s real name, but it’s popularly called La Redonda…b/c it’s circular. It was really pretty, and actually bright in the inside because the circle middle lit the place. Then, we headed back to the subte. Oh, I did stop into a computer store and bought two c.d.’s I’m going to burn some of my music for Maria Laura and Lu as part of the going away gift.
We subte’d about 3 stops to Carranza. This was another new area of town for me. We had to walk about 10 blocks. I kept getting confused because we were on a street where all the cross streets ended and had new names. I think it was the boundary of Palermo and Belgrano. We made it to the flea market, which was kind of weird. First of all, it was a really deserted part of town. Secondly, I was expecting junk, or antiques if you will, but it was more furniture. Lots of chairs and sofas, etc. I couldn’t help but think that some of it would be useful in my house next year. Oh, and there were egg chairs, which were cool. There were a few good stalls with paintings, but overall it wasn’t anything I was in the market for.
We subte’d back, and I made it home. I think we might be going to a Beatles cover concert tonight and maybe a boliche. Not sure – Jon leaves on Monday so he’s getting in his last kicks.
Yea, we met up with Jon’s friends from Ecuador and we all went to a boliche called Pacha. It’s supposed to be a cool place for younger people. Thankfully it wasn’t too cold because we had to wait outside for a bit. One of the girls knew someone, so we got discounted entradas, which was helpful. Inside, the scene was crazy. Tons of people, everyone dancing to this electronica music. I really felt like I was in a movie – or rather, in that mojito commercial where he is shaking the drink and everyone moves and then stops when he stops. Because the bass would stop in the music and everyone would stop…it would build back up….and then boom! Everyone goes at it again.
However, the one thing about electronica, for me, is that it all sounds the same, and it’s not like you’re really dancing with anyone. So I would’ve been fine with leaving about an hour in, but we ended up staying until 6 a.m. We cabbed back, and I made it in bed just as the day was beginning.
Final Quilmes...
Friday, August 7th
Friday morning just consisted of meandering around the apartment. I had thought about trying to find a pair of boots, but it was cold outside so that idea quickly faltered. The beautiful eclipse of weather that was Wednesday was no more.
I did go out to make my copies for class, and I noted that my photocopy store had purchased a new desk! When I complimented the guy on it, he opened up and started asking me questions. I was glad because I’ve come to this place like 10 times. I got my copies, which I paid for with my 10 pesos from last night, and then I used the leftover funds to purchase a coke in the kiosk near my house. The best part about doing that is that they give you a straw as well, and when you drink through the straw it makes the coke really fizzy. So much fun.
I ate my customary lunch at home, and then headed to Quilmes. I was running a few minutes late, and I was worried about not making it to the 1:45 train because the 2 train would’ve made me late. Of course, when you’re in a hurry everyone around you walks SUPER slow. I hate when people are walking slowly AND taking up the whole crossway so you can’t pass. Major ugh.
Yay for the subte though, because I made it with 8 minutes to spare. I speedwalked up the stairs, understanding how the people who always walk so urgently must feel, and went to the pago rapido for exact change window, got my ida y vuelta, passed the checkpoint, and was seated on the train with 3 minutes to spare. Whoop.
I sat down next to this guy, and we were facing the wrong way. I reviewed the papers I was going to do with the guys, and then I just stared into space until I arrived in Quilmes. I didn’t ask anyone this time, I just knew where to stop!
I made it to the office, and when I called Pablo D. to let me in, I saw him and Eduardo across the street. However, someone was at the door, so I waved to them and headed in, where I greeted Jorge. We talked for a few minutes, before Pablo D. and I started class. Of course, the other Pablo wasn’t there, but Pablo D. let me call him on his phone, and it turns out that again he was at lunch. So he said he would hurry back. Pablo D. and I started with the listening exercise, as well as just talked. We talk well together. Then the other Pablo showed up and we redid the listening exercise. It was hilarious because when we were reviewing it, he had the exact same questions about words, etc. that Pablo D. did. You can tell they’ve had the same English instruction. And they both made the same joke about the past tense of rise, rose, being just like the flower.
Class lasted long, until Jorge came in and kicked them out. We talked for a bit, during which Jorge said his daughter had asked him to ask me where the word handsome came from, which I didn’t know the answer to, but I told him I would research. He finally called in Eduardo, who was dallying, and we did the listening exercise. I managed to pick an article that challenged Jorge a little. Class went by quickly, and then I gave them each a letter I had written thanking them for the fun month and wishing them luck with their English.
Jorge walked me out, and we talked for a bit about other places I could visit before leaving. As I left for the last time, I won’t lie, I was a little sad. I really liked hanging out with those guys. Oh, point to remember – there’s an awesome really old ad in Quilmes. It’s painted onto a brick building, and it is of a glass of beer (because the Quilmes beer plant is right there) and it says, Lo admito, vivo en una burbuja. And I just think it’s a great ad, so I also took a moment to admire it one more time while crossing the train tracks to get back.
I had a couple of missed calls from Language Roots, and it turns out they had wanted to move up my lesson with Maricel. Pues, I told them that I would, but I had to take the train and subte back, so I didn’t think it would be possible. I arrived at the station right when the train showed up, so I again felt like a natural as I sprinted to the train door and found a seat by myself before the train took off. I just read Agatha Christie and the time passed by really quickly. I love reading that book in Spanish!
I made it to Language Roots, and Maricel’s lesson focused on her reading and the 2nd conditional. I really felt like we made some progress, although it went really slowly. She was really having trouble saying the word “would”, and she kept pronouncing it good. That got a little frustrating. But we pretty much got the hang of it. After that, I got paid!! Yay!! I mean, it’s not much, but it’s still cool to be earning the plata. They gave me about 100 pesos less than I had calculated, so we doublechecked and it turns out they had forgotten to credit 4 classes to me. Glad I checked! I also found out that I had gotten paid for two classes when the students had cancelled, so I actually made a little more than I thought! She wasn’t sure about two of the extra classes I claimed, so she wrote on my receipt that I lacked two and once she doublechecks I should get them. I also reminded them that I leave in two weeks, and they said would be no problem to get paid for August early. That prompted a story about a girl who told them the day before that she was leaving, causing them to lose two clients. I felt really bad, but Monica was like, you told me the day of your interview, so can’t complain about that. Whew. Now if I can get my plata from my Quilmes classes I’ll be set!
I headed home, changed, and went to the tango class with Jon. Oh, and while Lu was taking her bath, Maria Laura was like, Lu has ….some word I don’t know. And I was like, oh, ok. And she said, you don’t know what that is do you? And she itched her head. Oh crap.
My host sister has lice.
I was like, animales en la cabeza? And she laughed and said yes. Great. I don’t do much closely around Lu, so I’m really really hoping that I don’t have them. But you know when you’re thinking about something and your head starts itching? Yea. And M.L. was like, I have some shampoo, I have a lot of hair it would not be convenient to get them. Yea, no crap, I don’t think anyone wants to catch it.
Anyways, we walked to tango class. The past two times there were lots of new people, but this time there were just four of us. We all did this basic step, which was something different from the other two classes. Then, they split me, Jon, and the two other new people in the corner with two easy level teachers. I confided in Cassandra that I had come before but that I preferred to keep expectations low. She laughed and said she wouldn’t tell. We worked on the basic step, which I was content to stick with. Go any higher and you start twisting your legs and stuff. I love to watch it, but doing it is another thing. Well, I was just laughing and having a great time, but I think they got frustrated because I laughed a lot. Jon and I had to dance at the end in front of everyone, and we totally did the incorrect step. But we did it correctly! So no one clapped. Haha. Then, these like 5 year old did this amazingly complicated step. I was really impressed and joined in the clapping.
After that, headed home, where an omelette dinner and chips awaited me. Read some more of the Isabelle Allende book, which I’m really getting into. I’m also getting better at reading it.
Friday morning just consisted of meandering around the apartment. I had thought about trying to find a pair of boots, but it was cold outside so that idea quickly faltered. The beautiful eclipse of weather that was Wednesday was no more.
I did go out to make my copies for class, and I noted that my photocopy store had purchased a new desk! When I complimented the guy on it, he opened up and started asking me questions. I was glad because I’ve come to this place like 10 times. I got my copies, which I paid for with my 10 pesos from last night, and then I used the leftover funds to purchase a coke in the kiosk near my house. The best part about doing that is that they give you a straw as well, and when you drink through the straw it makes the coke really fizzy. So much fun.
I ate my customary lunch at home, and then headed to Quilmes. I was running a few minutes late, and I was worried about not making it to the 1:45 train because the 2 train would’ve made me late. Of course, when you’re in a hurry everyone around you walks SUPER slow. I hate when people are walking slowly AND taking up the whole crossway so you can’t pass. Major ugh.
Yay for the subte though, because I made it with 8 minutes to spare. I speedwalked up the stairs, understanding how the people who always walk so urgently must feel, and went to the pago rapido for exact change window, got my ida y vuelta, passed the checkpoint, and was seated on the train with 3 minutes to spare. Whoop.
I sat down next to this guy, and we were facing the wrong way. I reviewed the papers I was going to do with the guys, and then I just stared into space until I arrived in Quilmes. I didn’t ask anyone this time, I just knew where to stop!
I made it to the office, and when I called Pablo D. to let me in, I saw him and Eduardo across the street. However, someone was at the door, so I waved to them and headed in, where I greeted Jorge. We talked for a few minutes, before Pablo D. and I started class. Of course, the other Pablo wasn’t there, but Pablo D. let me call him on his phone, and it turns out that again he was at lunch. So he said he would hurry back. Pablo D. and I started with the listening exercise, as well as just talked. We talk well together. Then the other Pablo showed up and we redid the listening exercise. It was hilarious because when we were reviewing it, he had the exact same questions about words, etc. that Pablo D. did. You can tell they’ve had the same English instruction. And they both made the same joke about the past tense of rise, rose, being just like the flower.
Class lasted long, until Jorge came in and kicked them out. We talked for a bit, during which Jorge said his daughter had asked him to ask me where the word handsome came from, which I didn’t know the answer to, but I told him I would research. He finally called in Eduardo, who was dallying, and we did the listening exercise. I managed to pick an article that challenged Jorge a little. Class went by quickly, and then I gave them each a letter I had written thanking them for the fun month and wishing them luck with their English.
Jorge walked me out, and we talked for a bit about other places I could visit before leaving. As I left for the last time, I won’t lie, I was a little sad. I really liked hanging out with those guys. Oh, point to remember – there’s an awesome really old ad in Quilmes. It’s painted onto a brick building, and it is of a glass of beer (because the Quilmes beer plant is right there) and it says, Lo admito, vivo en una burbuja. And I just think it’s a great ad, so I also took a moment to admire it one more time while crossing the train tracks to get back.
I had a couple of missed calls from Language Roots, and it turns out they had wanted to move up my lesson with Maricel. Pues, I told them that I would, but I had to take the train and subte back, so I didn’t think it would be possible. I arrived at the station right when the train showed up, so I again felt like a natural as I sprinted to the train door and found a seat by myself before the train took off. I just read Agatha Christie and the time passed by really quickly. I love reading that book in Spanish!
I made it to Language Roots, and Maricel’s lesson focused on her reading and the 2nd conditional. I really felt like we made some progress, although it went really slowly. She was really having trouble saying the word “would”, and she kept pronouncing it good. That got a little frustrating. But we pretty much got the hang of it. After that, I got paid!! Yay!! I mean, it’s not much, but it’s still cool to be earning the plata. They gave me about 100 pesos less than I had calculated, so we doublechecked and it turns out they had forgotten to credit 4 classes to me. Glad I checked! I also found out that I had gotten paid for two classes when the students had cancelled, so I actually made a little more than I thought! She wasn’t sure about two of the extra classes I claimed, so she wrote on my receipt that I lacked two and once she doublechecks I should get them. I also reminded them that I leave in two weeks, and they said would be no problem to get paid for August early. That prompted a story about a girl who told them the day before that she was leaving, causing them to lose two clients. I felt really bad, but Monica was like, you told me the day of your interview, so can’t complain about that. Whew. Now if I can get my plata from my Quilmes classes I’ll be set!
I headed home, changed, and went to the tango class with Jon. Oh, and while Lu was taking her bath, Maria Laura was like, Lu has ….some word I don’t know. And I was like, oh, ok. And she said, you don’t know what that is do you? And she itched her head. Oh crap.
My host sister has lice.
I was like, animales en la cabeza? And she laughed and said yes. Great. I don’t do much closely around Lu, so I’m really really hoping that I don’t have them. But you know when you’re thinking about something and your head starts itching? Yea. And M.L. was like, I have some shampoo, I have a lot of hair it would not be convenient to get them. Yea, no crap, I don’t think anyone wants to catch it.
Anyways, we walked to tango class. The past two times there were lots of new people, but this time there were just four of us. We all did this basic step, which was something different from the other two classes. Then, they split me, Jon, and the two other new people in the corner with two easy level teachers. I confided in Cassandra that I had come before but that I preferred to keep expectations low. She laughed and said she wouldn’t tell. We worked on the basic step, which I was content to stick with. Go any higher and you start twisting your legs and stuff. I love to watch it, but doing it is another thing. Well, I was just laughing and having a great time, but I think they got frustrated because I laughed a lot. Jon and I had to dance at the end in front of everyone, and we totally did the incorrect step. But we did it correctly! So no one clapped. Haha. Then, these like 5 year old did this amazingly complicated step. I was really impressed and joined in the clapping.
After that, headed home, where an omelette dinner and chips awaited me. Read some more of the Isabelle Allende book, which I’m really getting into. I’m also getting better at reading it.
San Tarsicio
Thursday, August 6th
Thursday morning was my final day in Belgrano. As I was about to leave, Maria Laura popped into my room and asked me if I would be able to wait 5 more minutes because the guy who brings up the vegetables was coming up. I told her I could for 5 more minutes, but I really couldn’t wait longer than that. Florencia just switched from an hour and a half to one hour, so I really couldn’t skimp her on time.
Pues, she said just 5 minutes, but Argentine time, right? So at 9:45, I headed out and just asked the guy to leave everything by the door. I felt bad, but I couldn’t be late. Plus, the reason Maria Laura had left was so she wouldn’t be late for her psychologist appointment.
Anyways, I made it to Belgrano 5 minutes late, and then of course Florencia still took a bit to get there. It’s really cool though. In the mornings, she has to work with the Spain office, which does the graphic design, about projects because it’s their afternoon. Did I mention she’s 22? And working across continents. So cool!
At the end of class we talked about maybe getting together next weekend, after her final exams. That would be fun – she’s so nice! Class with Hernan focused on a listening exercise and then some phrasal verbs. It went a little slower, but was still fun. We took a picture at the end as well, and he got one with his camera. He was so nice; he had added me on Facebook last class, and when he realized he missed my birthday he sent me a Facebook message. Precious.
After leaving, I saw the best dogwalker picture – at least 10 dogs – but I didn’t get my camera out in time for a good shot. Then, I headed back to the apartment where I fixed my lunch. I’ve got this good meat and cheese thing going, with a couple of medialunas and some chocolate pudding to finish it off.
I also apologized to Maria Laura for leaving before the veggie man arrived and explained that I had class at Belgrano at 10. She seemed ok about it. Then I headed to the high school, where I chilled in the teachers lounge with the English teachers. They’re all really nice. Paz got there, and we headed to class. We started with reviewing more homework, but the kids were restless. So Paz had them work in pairs on an interview with a famous sportsperson. While they were doing that, I reviewed their names with her and happily got them all down. Course, it’s easier when there are two Camilas, two Nicolas, etc. I love that all of their names easily have nicknames. It’s endearing.
During the break we went back to the teacher’s lounge, where the coordinator found out her son at primary school had fallen down and really hurt himself, so she had to leave. Paz and the other teachers were also talking about the difference between American and British movies and how they find it easier to understand British ones.
The second half of class flew by, with the kids finishing up their interviews and then presenting them. The two Nicolas’ had lots of questions for me instead of doing their interviews, which consisted mainly of which sports teams I liked and what music I listened to. They reminded me of my brother John – just want to smile and ask questions instead of doing their homework. At the end of class they also reviewed a book they read over the holidays. Of course, only a few of the students actually read it.
After class, I finally got ahold of Monica and was able to ensure that she had received my email. Then, Paz and I walked back to my house just chatting about my stay and stuff. I was going to interview Maria Cecilia, the coordinator of the primary school, but I didn’t make it back in time.
Instead, I went to the House, where I chatted with my parents and just hung out. I only know like one person at the House now, so I felt almost imposing, but whatever, the Internet is free there.
Around 8, I headed back home, where Maria Laura was still cooking. I asked her if she could leave my dinner for me because I was going out. She said she was just going to order empanadas, and so she just gave me some money to pick them up myself. Now, she has only done this one other time, so it’s not a usual occurrence. But she gave me 10 pesos. Which if the dollar is about 3.8 right now, translates into less than 3 dollars for my dinner. The only thing I can get with that is 3 empanadas…sans drink. I wasn’t upset though, because the pizza party at Road was that night.
I went to the Roadhouse, where they were making pizza and serving drinks. Of course, I luckily picked up the cup with a hole in it and it took me about a minute of dripping onto my pea coat before I realized that there was a leak. So then I spent about 10 minutes in the bathroom scrubbing. I talked to various people, and everyone was nice, but there’s no real potential friendships there because I have less than two weeks. I did get to feel experienced when people were asking about the TEFL course and how the job search went. So that was fun.
Later, Jon wanted to make the last subte train, so I just walked back with him since it’s right by my house. We also decided to go to a tango class tomorrow since I inherited two free passes. He leaves on Monday, and then really everyone who came in around the time I did will have left. I’m sticking it out for another week though ;) I also talked to Justine about maybe going to a gym class next week. Mainly to prove to Rebe that I don’t fervently avoid gyms.
Thursday morning was my final day in Belgrano. As I was about to leave, Maria Laura popped into my room and asked me if I would be able to wait 5 more minutes because the guy who brings up the vegetables was coming up. I told her I could for 5 more minutes, but I really couldn’t wait longer than that. Florencia just switched from an hour and a half to one hour, so I really couldn’t skimp her on time.
Pues, she said just 5 minutes, but Argentine time, right? So at 9:45, I headed out and just asked the guy to leave everything by the door. I felt bad, but I couldn’t be late. Plus, the reason Maria Laura had left was so she wouldn’t be late for her psychologist appointment.
Anyways, I made it to Belgrano 5 minutes late, and then of course Florencia still took a bit to get there. It’s really cool though. In the mornings, she has to work with the Spain office, which does the graphic design, about projects because it’s their afternoon. Did I mention she’s 22? And working across continents. So cool!
At the end of class we talked about maybe getting together next weekend, after her final exams. That would be fun – she’s so nice! Class with Hernan focused on a listening exercise and then some phrasal verbs. It went a little slower, but was still fun. We took a picture at the end as well, and he got one with his camera. He was so nice; he had added me on Facebook last class, and when he realized he missed my birthday he sent me a Facebook message. Precious.
After leaving, I saw the best dogwalker picture – at least 10 dogs – but I didn’t get my camera out in time for a good shot. Then, I headed back to the apartment where I fixed my lunch. I’ve got this good meat and cheese thing going, with a couple of medialunas and some chocolate pudding to finish it off.
I also apologized to Maria Laura for leaving before the veggie man arrived and explained that I had class at Belgrano at 10. She seemed ok about it. Then I headed to the high school, where I chilled in the teachers lounge with the English teachers. They’re all really nice. Paz got there, and we headed to class. We started with reviewing more homework, but the kids were restless. So Paz had them work in pairs on an interview with a famous sportsperson. While they were doing that, I reviewed their names with her and happily got them all down. Course, it’s easier when there are two Camilas, two Nicolas, etc. I love that all of their names easily have nicknames. It’s endearing.
During the break we went back to the teacher’s lounge, where the coordinator found out her son at primary school had fallen down and really hurt himself, so she had to leave. Paz and the other teachers were also talking about the difference between American and British movies and how they find it easier to understand British ones.
The second half of class flew by, with the kids finishing up their interviews and then presenting them. The two Nicolas’ had lots of questions for me instead of doing their interviews, which consisted mainly of which sports teams I liked and what music I listened to. They reminded me of my brother John – just want to smile and ask questions instead of doing their homework. At the end of class they also reviewed a book they read over the holidays. Of course, only a few of the students actually read it.
After class, I finally got ahold of Monica and was able to ensure that she had received my email. Then, Paz and I walked back to my house just chatting about my stay and stuff. I was going to interview Maria Cecilia, the coordinator of the primary school, but I didn’t make it back in time.
Instead, I went to the House, where I chatted with my parents and just hung out. I only know like one person at the House now, so I felt almost imposing, but whatever, the Internet is free there.
Around 8, I headed back home, where Maria Laura was still cooking. I asked her if she could leave my dinner for me because I was going out. She said she was just going to order empanadas, and so she just gave me some money to pick them up myself. Now, she has only done this one other time, so it’s not a usual occurrence. But she gave me 10 pesos. Which if the dollar is about 3.8 right now, translates into less than 3 dollars for my dinner. The only thing I can get with that is 3 empanadas…sans drink. I wasn’t upset though, because the pizza party at Road was that night.
I went to the Roadhouse, where they were making pizza and serving drinks. Of course, I luckily picked up the cup with a hole in it and it took me about a minute of dripping onto my pea coat before I realized that there was a leak. So then I spent about 10 minutes in the bathroom scrubbing. I talked to various people, and everyone was nice, but there’s no real potential friendships there because I have less than two weeks. I did get to feel experienced when people were asking about the TEFL course and how the job search went. So that was fun.
Later, Jon wanted to make the last subte train, so I just walked back with him since it’s right by my house. We also decided to go to a tango class tomorrow since I inherited two free passes. He leaves on Monday, and then really everyone who came in around the time I did will have left. I’m sticking it out for another week though ;) I also talked to Justine about maybe going to a gym class next week. Mainly to prove to Rebe that I don’t fervently avoid gyms.
Entrevista con el Ministerio Nacional de Educacion
Wednesday, August 5th
I’ve gotten into the habit of getting up around 8. But since I go to bed before midnight it’s not that difficult. I typically get woken up by Lu around 7:30 as she’s getting ready for school, and then I fall back asleep until around 8 or 8:15.
Today wasn’t cold! I would classify it as cool. It was quite wonderful, and wouldn’t even have required my peacoat, but well, I wore it for other reasons.
I did the normal morning routine of breakfast (tostada – one strawberry jam and one dulce de leche) and a cup of chocolate milk, read, checked email, and just got ready to go to the school! Schools here opened, after a month of swine flu and winter break, this Monday. Today was my first day to be in the classroom with Paz and her students.
As I was getting ready, I had to relook up the address to the school, which was when I noticed I was supposed to be there at 10:30, not 10:45 as I had thought. Luckily, the school is just a few blocks from my house, so I just left immediately and made it there only a few minutes late. As Argentine time has it though, I wasn’t late.
I entered the building, which they are renting while their new school is being built, and told the security guard at the top of the stairs I was supposed to meet Paz. He directed up more stairs, where I had to ask a girl where Paz was. She was nice and took me to their teacher’s lounge.
This school is a private school, and so it’s run a little differently. What I found out today is that the teachers come and go from the school. With English classes, they are all taught at one time. So all the English teachers were in the teachers lounge. However, once their class is done, they leave. I’m not sure if it’s the case for all, but in Paz’s case she then goes to the primary school and teacher there as well (7th grade). Their primary is until 7th, and then secondary is from 8th on.
We said hello and then went to the classroom. She has about 15 students, ranging from 13-15, so around Mary’s age. There was, of course, a murmur through the crowd as I walked in. Paz had me introduce myself, so I explained the basics, and then they had a few questions. Then, Paz had them introduce themselves, which they were all able to do the basic name, age, grade, winter break activities with relative ease. She would also interject to the side random facts about the kids. Paz also acts as a counselor for them (she’s a psychologist on the side, but who in BA isn’t?), so she knows extra info. The most interesting story was that one of the kids was adopted. His parents, having just gotten married, took their dog for a walk on New Year’s Eve and found a baby in the bushes. What a fairytale!
I think the funniest questions they asked me were if I had been to Las Vegas (interested in the casinos) and what sports I liked. I confused them with American football (I mean, I like Aggie football), but they did mention the Spurs (an Argentine is on the team). One of the girls had just gotten back from Miami, which is a SUPER popular place for people here. I’d say it’s the most well-known city in the U.S. here aside from maybe New York.
After introductions, Paz had them pull out their workbooks and they began to review homework they had done over the winter break. As they went through the exercises, I was taken back to my days in Sra.’s class. Paz teaches a lot like her. She really engages with the kids and jokes with them, but at the same time is serious about learning. If I teach, I hope I’m like that. Paz kept saying stuff like, sorry we have to review this, but I was perfectly content. I started thinking about why I enjoy the classroom so much, and I think it’s because I like transferring information, and my bossy side enjoys the idea of a classroom. Plus, the kids are just so cute! A few goofballs, but they have good hearts. I was just content.
After an hour, we got a break. I accompanied Paz to the teacher’s lounge, where she introduced me to all the teachers. I also talked to her supervisor, who agreed to let me interview her next week. Sweet! Still not going to have as much data as hoped for, but I’ll at least have a basis. We also decided that I would come on Wednesday the 19th, which is my last day in Buenos Aires. Man. I really wish that I could’ve been in the classroom the entire time, but I will certainly enjoy the 5 classes I have left (They only have English class 3 times a week, and next week Monday is a day off for them.).
Back in the class, they continued reviewing. Paz also introduced the topic of discrimination, which I will be going through with them next week. They just read a book, I forgot the name, which talked about apartheid in Africa. She said they were really interested in it, so it would be good for that to be my lesson topic. Lots of directions to take that one, but Paz said she would help me develop it.
After class, one of the cutest little boys stayed to ask me if we had rugby in the United States. We talked for a few minutes in English, and I felt so cool! Then, I left and came back to my apartment, where Maria Laura has been feverishly cooking. I had a hodgepodge of goodies for lunch from my shopping trip the other day, quickly donned another jacket (oh, went with the red peacoat because it looks more professional), and headed out.
It was about a 20 minute walk to the Ministerio de Cultura y Educacion. What’s so cool about this is that it’s located in an old palace. I wasn’t sure how to enter because I couldn’t find the street they had told me. Luckily, there was a security guard checking parking permits (hiss, from A&M) and he informed me that yes the parking lot street was the street name they had given me and that I should take the second door in. Inside, mechanical gates had to let you in. So I waited in line until the receptionist was available, then I told her my appointment, she asked for an official i.d. (gave her my driver’s license), and then I was allowed in. She asked me if I knew how to get there, and I said no….apparently I wasn’t convincing enough though. She pointed me in the general direction.
K, the office number 243, so I would think 2nd floor. Pues, I get to the second floor, and I’m surrounded by lower 200’s. So I ask a guy, and he tells me I have to go to the other side and downstairs. Well, I thought I had misheard him. My Spanish abilities always falter when I really need them. I made it to the end of the hall and was stuck. So I asked another guy, who asked a lady. They gave me instructions, but at this point I was a little flustered. I should review my directions vocabulary.
The lady was nice and escorted me to the office. You can’t blame me though, she said this place was a labrynth too. It was super confusing, and it turns out I did have to go downstairs. K, so I arrive in the office, tell the lady thankyou, oh because she said when she was in France people helped her out, so she would help me out.
Florencia, who I have been emailing with, is on the phone. Another lady takes me to where the lenguas especialistas are waiting. K, I was pretty sure they thought I was someone more important than I am when they agreed to meet with me via email, and their looks when I walked in confirmed it. Oh well, they already committed.
The room was SUPER hot, and I was actually down to my white blouse, but I was happy for once people actually got to see my clothes and not just my jacket.
Before we started, I asked them if they spoke English. Turns out everyone in BA wants to speak English except the people who work in the Ministry of Education. One lady said she spoke some, but I told them I would attempt in Spanish so we could all talk. Even though they sometimes couldn’t understand me, I was happily surprised that I caught about 95% of what she was saying with ease. Granted, it was all vocabulary that I’ve been working with in documents I’ve been reading, but still, gotta get props where I can.
I quickly found out my typical interview questions wouldn’t work as they didn’t really know the inside of a high school classroom. However, they were able to explain the broader picture of the language education side to me. The actual curriculum is determined lower on the rung. See, they are the National Ministry of Education….all of Argentina. Each province (kind of like our states) has its own Ministry of Education. What fascinated me is that in 2006 they made it a law to teach a foreign language from primary to secondary….for all of school. Since then, schools have been attempting to implement that. Basically, they’re in the middle of working out a revolutionary plan to have second language instruction at all levels of school. WHOAAAAAAAAA.
I wish I could’ve kept them for longer, but after about half an hour they started looking at their watches, so after one hour I thanked them and got their emails so I could follow up questions later. Oh, the other thing was the non-emphasis on English. One of the ladies spoke Spanish and French, which French makes a lot of sense. Apparently before the English craze French was considered the language a mode.
But she was quick to point out that not all schools elected to teach English, although no one can deny that that’s the main focus. She was also careful with her responses, saying that ALL second language learning was good. I tried to be clear that I agreed with her but for the scope of my project I was just focusing on English-Spanish.
But just think about if they get this figured out. I mean, I’m talking in terms of lots of years here. They still have lots of problems. They don’t have enough language teachers –she mentioned current discussions of obliging teachers to teach for 4 years after graduation from public universities (b/c public universities here are free) because most people who train to be teachers don’t end up actually teaching. Two main causes: plata (money) and lack of interest…younger people find businesses more interesting. They have a large divide between public and private schools. But one of the main reasons they wanted to pass this law was to give EVERYONE the opportunity to learn a second language….not just the privileged, private school kids. Education for all.
They’re currently in the stages of meeting with all of the individual provinces ministry’s and attempting to discern the regulations that will accompany this new law. I got SO excited when they were talking about this, I think it’s so cool! Learning a language is yes, communicating. But it’s so much more! In a language classroom, if correctly taught, you are exposed to another culture. You learn that things are DIFFERENT and that that’s GOOD. If taught correctly, you practice writing, reading, speaking, interacting with others. If you’re like me, you fall in love with it.
There are still lots of tangents, and who knows how Argentina’s system will end up. Because the way many classes are taught now, it’s not an effective use of time. They face a lot of the same educational problems that the States faces. But they’re trying. They’ve taken ACTION. Kudos Argentina.
So cool. So so so so so cool.
Anyways, I hung out at the house until my lesson with Patricia at 6:30. She cancelled last week, so this was our first lesson. I brought my reading about driving which one day apparently I went crazy and made like 10 copies of it, so I’m trying to use it. Since she wants to focus on pronunciation pretty much anything can work. Now remember, she’s the one who has the awesome office on the 29th floor, from which she can just make out Uruguay on a nice day. I made it through the subte and to the building, where I had to go through the usual process of handing over some form of i.d. so I could enter. When I reached the office, another worker let me into her office.
I was 5 minutes late, but then she was another 10 minutes late. Yay Argentina. Plus, she’s a workaholic. We got through everything pretty quickly. We focused on pronunciation of “th”. Out of habit she makes a “d” sound instead of “th”. Knowing that she wouldn’t have time to do homework if I gave it to her, I just asked her to practice the pronunciation.
When I returned home, I was worried because I had received an email from Monica asking me why I missed a class Tuesday afternoon. It was a class we had talked about last week, and I distinctly remembered telling her I couldn’t because I teach in Quilmes on Tuesdays, but she must’ve forgotten. Even though I knew it wasn’t my fault, I was worried because I didn’t want Monica upset with me. She’s wonderful, but when she gets angry….
So I quickly typed out a response and reminded her that I would be unable to go to that class on Thursday either.
I’ve gotten into the habit of getting up around 8. But since I go to bed before midnight it’s not that difficult. I typically get woken up by Lu around 7:30 as she’s getting ready for school, and then I fall back asleep until around 8 or 8:15.
Today wasn’t cold! I would classify it as cool. It was quite wonderful, and wouldn’t even have required my peacoat, but well, I wore it for other reasons.
I did the normal morning routine of breakfast (tostada – one strawberry jam and one dulce de leche) and a cup of chocolate milk, read, checked email, and just got ready to go to the school! Schools here opened, after a month of swine flu and winter break, this Monday. Today was my first day to be in the classroom with Paz and her students.
As I was getting ready, I had to relook up the address to the school, which was when I noticed I was supposed to be there at 10:30, not 10:45 as I had thought. Luckily, the school is just a few blocks from my house, so I just left immediately and made it there only a few minutes late. As Argentine time has it though, I wasn’t late.
I entered the building, which they are renting while their new school is being built, and told the security guard at the top of the stairs I was supposed to meet Paz. He directed up more stairs, where I had to ask a girl where Paz was. She was nice and took me to their teacher’s lounge.
This school is a private school, and so it’s run a little differently. What I found out today is that the teachers come and go from the school. With English classes, they are all taught at one time. So all the English teachers were in the teachers lounge. However, once their class is done, they leave. I’m not sure if it’s the case for all, but in Paz’s case she then goes to the primary school and teacher there as well (7th grade). Their primary is until 7th, and then secondary is from 8th on.
We said hello and then went to the classroom. She has about 15 students, ranging from 13-15, so around Mary’s age. There was, of course, a murmur through the crowd as I walked in. Paz had me introduce myself, so I explained the basics, and then they had a few questions. Then, Paz had them introduce themselves, which they were all able to do the basic name, age, grade, winter break activities with relative ease. She would also interject to the side random facts about the kids. Paz also acts as a counselor for them (she’s a psychologist on the side, but who in BA isn’t?), so she knows extra info. The most interesting story was that one of the kids was adopted. His parents, having just gotten married, took their dog for a walk on New Year’s Eve and found a baby in the bushes. What a fairytale!
I think the funniest questions they asked me were if I had been to Las Vegas (interested in the casinos) and what sports I liked. I confused them with American football (I mean, I like Aggie football), but they did mention the Spurs (an Argentine is on the team). One of the girls had just gotten back from Miami, which is a SUPER popular place for people here. I’d say it’s the most well-known city in the U.S. here aside from maybe New York.
After introductions, Paz had them pull out their workbooks and they began to review homework they had done over the winter break. As they went through the exercises, I was taken back to my days in Sra.’s class. Paz teaches a lot like her. She really engages with the kids and jokes with them, but at the same time is serious about learning. If I teach, I hope I’m like that. Paz kept saying stuff like, sorry we have to review this, but I was perfectly content. I started thinking about why I enjoy the classroom so much, and I think it’s because I like transferring information, and my bossy side enjoys the idea of a classroom. Plus, the kids are just so cute! A few goofballs, but they have good hearts. I was just content.
After an hour, we got a break. I accompanied Paz to the teacher’s lounge, where she introduced me to all the teachers. I also talked to her supervisor, who agreed to let me interview her next week. Sweet! Still not going to have as much data as hoped for, but I’ll at least have a basis. We also decided that I would come on Wednesday the 19th, which is my last day in Buenos Aires. Man. I really wish that I could’ve been in the classroom the entire time, but I will certainly enjoy the 5 classes I have left (They only have English class 3 times a week, and next week Monday is a day off for them.).
Back in the class, they continued reviewing. Paz also introduced the topic of discrimination, which I will be going through with them next week. They just read a book, I forgot the name, which talked about apartheid in Africa. She said they were really interested in it, so it would be good for that to be my lesson topic. Lots of directions to take that one, but Paz said she would help me develop it.
After class, one of the cutest little boys stayed to ask me if we had rugby in the United States. We talked for a few minutes in English, and I felt so cool! Then, I left and came back to my apartment, where Maria Laura has been feverishly cooking. I had a hodgepodge of goodies for lunch from my shopping trip the other day, quickly donned another jacket (oh, went with the red peacoat because it looks more professional), and headed out.
It was about a 20 minute walk to the Ministerio de Cultura y Educacion. What’s so cool about this is that it’s located in an old palace. I wasn’t sure how to enter because I couldn’t find the street they had told me. Luckily, there was a security guard checking parking permits (hiss, from A&M) and he informed me that yes the parking lot street was the street name they had given me and that I should take the second door in. Inside, mechanical gates had to let you in. So I waited in line until the receptionist was available, then I told her my appointment, she asked for an official i.d. (gave her my driver’s license), and then I was allowed in. She asked me if I knew how to get there, and I said no….apparently I wasn’t convincing enough though. She pointed me in the general direction.
K, the office number 243, so I would think 2nd floor. Pues, I get to the second floor, and I’m surrounded by lower 200’s. So I ask a guy, and he tells me I have to go to the other side and downstairs. Well, I thought I had misheard him. My Spanish abilities always falter when I really need them. I made it to the end of the hall and was stuck. So I asked another guy, who asked a lady. They gave me instructions, but at this point I was a little flustered. I should review my directions vocabulary.
The lady was nice and escorted me to the office. You can’t blame me though, she said this place was a labrynth too. It was super confusing, and it turns out I did have to go downstairs. K, so I arrive in the office, tell the lady thankyou, oh because she said when she was in France people helped her out, so she would help me out.
Florencia, who I have been emailing with, is on the phone. Another lady takes me to where the lenguas especialistas are waiting. K, I was pretty sure they thought I was someone more important than I am when they agreed to meet with me via email, and their looks when I walked in confirmed it. Oh well, they already committed.
The room was SUPER hot, and I was actually down to my white blouse, but I was happy for once people actually got to see my clothes and not just my jacket.
Before we started, I asked them if they spoke English. Turns out everyone in BA wants to speak English except the people who work in the Ministry of Education. One lady said she spoke some, but I told them I would attempt in Spanish so we could all talk. Even though they sometimes couldn’t understand me, I was happily surprised that I caught about 95% of what she was saying with ease. Granted, it was all vocabulary that I’ve been working with in documents I’ve been reading, but still, gotta get props where I can.
I quickly found out my typical interview questions wouldn’t work as they didn’t really know the inside of a high school classroom. However, they were able to explain the broader picture of the language education side to me. The actual curriculum is determined lower on the rung. See, they are the National Ministry of Education….all of Argentina. Each province (kind of like our states) has its own Ministry of Education. What fascinated me is that in 2006 they made it a law to teach a foreign language from primary to secondary….for all of school. Since then, schools have been attempting to implement that. Basically, they’re in the middle of working out a revolutionary plan to have second language instruction at all levels of school. WHOAAAAAAAAA.
I wish I could’ve kept them for longer, but after about half an hour they started looking at their watches, so after one hour I thanked them and got their emails so I could follow up questions later. Oh, the other thing was the non-emphasis on English. One of the ladies spoke Spanish and French, which French makes a lot of sense. Apparently before the English craze French was considered the language a mode.
But she was quick to point out that not all schools elected to teach English, although no one can deny that that’s the main focus. She was also careful with her responses, saying that ALL second language learning was good. I tried to be clear that I agreed with her but for the scope of my project I was just focusing on English-Spanish.
But just think about if they get this figured out. I mean, I’m talking in terms of lots of years here. They still have lots of problems. They don’t have enough language teachers –she mentioned current discussions of obliging teachers to teach for 4 years after graduation from public universities (b/c public universities here are free) because most people who train to be teachers don’t end up actually teaching. Two main causes: plata (money) and lack of interest…younger people find businesses more interesting. They have a large divide between public and private schools. But one of the main reasons they wanted to pass this law was to give EVERYONE the opportunity to learn a second language….not just the privileged, private school kids. Education for all.
They’re currently in the stages of meeting with all of the individual provinces ministry’s and attempting to discern the regulations that will accompany this new law. I got SO excited when they were talking about this, I think it’s so cool! Learning a language is yes, communicating. But it’s so much more! In a language classroom, if correctly taught, you are exposed to another culture. You learn that things are DIFFERENT and that that’s GOOD. If taught correctly, you practice writing, reading, speaking, interacting with others. If you’re like me, you fall in love with it.
There are still lots of tangents, and who knows how Argentina’s system will end up. Because the way many classes are taught now, it’s not an effective use of time. They face a lot of the same educational problems that the States faces. But they’re trying. They’ve taken ACTION. Kudos Argentina.
So cool. So so so so so cool.
Anyways, I hung out at the house until my lesson with Patricia at 6:30. She cancelled last week, so this was our first lesson. I brought my reading about driving which one day apparently I went crazy and made like 10 copies of it, so I’m trying to use it. Since she wants to focus on pronunciation pretty much anything can work. Now remember, she’s the one who has the awesome office on the 29th floor, from which she can just make out Uruguay on a nice day. I made it through the subte and to the building, where I had to go through the usual process of handing over some form of i.d. so I could enter. When I reached the office, another worker let me into her office.
I was 5 minutes late, but then she was another 10 minutes late. Yay Argentina. Plus, she’s a workaholic. We got through everything pretty quickly. We focused on pronunciation of “th”. Out of habit she makes a “d” sound instead of “th”. Knowing that she wouldn’t have time to do homework if I gave it to her, I just asked her to practice the pronunciation.
When I returned home, I was worried because I had received an email from Monica asking me why I missed a class Tuesday afternoon. It was a class we had talked about last week, and I distinctly remembered telling her I couldn’t because I teach in Quilmes on Tuesdays, but she must’ve forgotten. Even though I knew it wasn’t my fault, I was worried because I didn’t want Monica upset with me. She’s wonderful, but when she gets angry….
So I quickly typed out a response and reminded her that I would be unable to go to that class on Thursday either.
more classes...
Tuesday, August 4th
Typical morning routine, and then I left a few minutes early in order to make it to the photocopy shop. I did my typical many different printouts, and I felt kind of bad for making him open so many files, but really, it’s like 3 minutes of his life. It’s not that bad. I was really hoping he would tell me that he had my USB, because I can’t find my black one. But he didn’t.
However, right before I left, I asked him, and voila! He pulled it out from a cup! I almost cried from relief, because I had seriously torn up my room looking for it. My immense relief was apparent as my face got red, and he gave me a weird look, but then joked about how nice he was for keeping it for me.
Cool. Much relieved, I headed to the subte and to my classes in Belgrano. Oh, on the subte there was this guy coughing. A really nasty cough. It was kind of crowded, so I couldn’t move away. Finally a seat opened up, and this nice guy let me have it. Gentlemen can be found on the subte! Pues, I was pretty late, about 15 minutes, but my worry was for nothing as Florencia didn’t come get me until 10 minutes later. We had a good class reviewing the first and second conditional and then hitting a tangent with the question – if I were president of Argentina, I would…. I got to hear her political views, which were interesting. Again, no one I’ve met likes Kirchner, but she did make the point that the workers like her. It was also interesting to hear how politically based certain stuff is. For example, some people get what we would call welfare from political parties. They get it, with the agreement that they give part of it to the political party and that they will go to any protests that political party has. Dang, corruption.
After that, I had my class with Hernan. Oh, before we started, I was waiting for him in the hall, and this guy who works there (which by the way, all these computer guys are tall and skinny) was like, chill, sit down. He was paler than me! Turns out he’s from Russia but has lived here for about 9 years (he was about my age). He asked me where I was from, and when I said U.S., he was like, you look it. I wasn’t sure how to take that.
Anywho, tangent. Class with Hernan started with us completely not understanding each other. But we worked through it, and the rest of the class was smooth. We talked about the difference between make/do, which Hernan likes rules and sometimes you just gotta memorize! And also did my complaint letters lesson. I love when I can reuse lessons.
After that, I grabbed a quick bite to eat at the McDo. Since school started, the place was full of kids. I was sitting at the bar, when these kids surrounded me (in the seats, not like a mob). In order to let them all sit together, I scooted down one next to these guys who were sitting opposite each other. Because duh culture dictates that if there’s space I leave an empty one between us. Well, just as I scoot, the kids scramble off to a bigger table that had just opened up. Awkwardly ate the rest of my lunch semi-listening to these guys talk. Haha. But yea, place was SWARMING with chicos.
Then, subte’d and train’d to Quilmes. This time in transit always wears me out – when I got off the subte and noticed all the grown MEN holding their backpacks in front, I got even more paranoid. I mean, I keep nothing of real value in my backpack, but still. The Cline is just sketchy. On the train though, I got to sit next to an old lady. But then she started coughing and I was like, ohhh noo fluuuuuuuu. I’m turning into a portena.
My class started with just Pablo, who I found out is referred to as Dacoll and the other Pablo retains the name Pablo. We caught up, he asked about my birthday extravaganza and I asked about his trip to Uruguay. He’s from there, but works here. But he’s not married or anything so he goes home a lot. It’s about an 8 hour drive in a weekend. Oh, I also found out he’s currently working on an MBA at the Universidad de Palermo. So yea, he’s cool. He also called the other Pablo, who always cuts class, and I talked to him. Apparently he thought Dacoll was calling about something important, and then he got confused when his English teacher was talking to him.
Pablo was at a late lunch, so we began the phrasal verb part of the lesson without him. Half past, he showed up. He brought with him some slides from a presentation he had to give this morning. His English isn’t bad, but he gets nervous and adds all these unnecessary words, etc. So we reviewed some different phrases he could use, and I told him I would bring vocab for discussing graphs on Friday. It was a good class.
After that, Jorge y Eduardo. Jorge never skips, and he was the sweet one who brought me some alfajores for my birthday. He’s basically like a father. Eduardo skipped last week, and his English is a little worse. He just mumbles a lot and it’s difficult to understand. We joke around with each other a lot though, and so the class went by fairly quickly. It’s a little difficult sometimes because everything is really easy for Jorge and I rarely need to correct him. Eduardo, on the other hand, takes a while and I hate to constantly correct him and not Jorge. So I have to be selective. At the very end of class, I requested a photo with all of them.
Then, we spent 10 minutes with everyone looking me up on Facebook. It was precious, and Pablo D. (because I can’t think of him as Dacoll now) made me sit down and add them all right then and there.
I left the office so happy, and headed back for the train ride home, where I wrote each of them goodbye notes/encouragement with their English to give them on Friday. I think I’ll bring some alfajores too or something.
As I made the transition from the train to the subte, I didn’t dare take out my camera. The image of the train station will just have to stay fresh in my mind. I did notice a law office in the bottom of the subte station. Right, because I got to the subte to seek legal advice. Que raro.
After the subte, I was going to take the connection to near Julian’s office, for my last class with him, and hang out at a Café Martinez I found near there. However, I forgot it was rush hour, and when the people were basically stuck in traffic, I decided to forgo the sketchy subte line for a brisk walk afuera.
I had less time since I was walking, so I ended up stopping by a Burger King and got a sundae to give me some energy before my last class. Only had one moment of frustration when a guy cut in front of me in the line. I think I stared sufficiently long enough at him to at least allow him to realize that I recognized what he had done.
After that, I went to the office. Julian and I spent our last class primarily talking about career paths. He is stressed because his daughter is about to graduate high school and wants to pursue teaching. He wants her to have more “financial stability” and do agronomy, like he did. When I asked him why she chose that path, he proceeded to list about 10 characteristics that would make her a great kindergarten teacher. Sounded like a perfect fit, actually. But not to him. He said when he was in high school, he wanted to be a pilot. But he did this instead, and flying is his hobby. He wants teaching to be her hobby.
He asked my opinion, and I had to admit that I’m kind of in the same situation. Of course I want financial stability, but I don’t want to compromise want I enjoy doing to just make plata. It felt like a discussion with my dad, haha.
The hour and a half went by quickly, which was good because I had been worried we had run out of topics, and then we exchanged contact details. He also gave me some chocolate for my birthday. I told him though, that the mate cup he gave me was the best gift ever! When we walked downstairs, I got the security man to take a picture of us. We shared our last cab ride together, and then said farewell at the corner of Santa Fe y Callao.
When I got back, apparently Maria Laura had thought I wasn’t coming back for dinner….even though I ALWAYS do…..and so I chilled on the Internet while she whipped up some rice and one of her diet dishes. Joy.
Typical morning routine, and then I left a few minutes early in order to make it to the photocopy shop. I did my typical many different printouts, and I felt kind of bad for making him open so many files, but really, it’s like 3 minutes of his life. It’s not that bad. I was really hoping he would tell me that he had my USB, because I can’t find my black one. But he didn’t.
However, right before I left, I asked him, and voila! He pulled it out from a cup! I almost cried from relief, because I had seriously torn up my room looking for it. My immense relief was apparent as my face got red, and he gave me a weird look, but then joked about how nice he was for keeping it for me.
Cool. Much relieved, I headed to the subte and to my classes in Belgrano. Oh, on the subte there was this guy coughing. A really nasty cough. It was kind of crowded, so I couldn’t move away. Finally a seat opened up, and this nice guy let me have it. Gentlemen can be found on the subte! Pues, I was pretty late, about 15 minutes, but my worry was for nothing as Florencia didn’t come get me until 10 minutes later. We had a good class reviewing the first and second conditional and then hitting a tangent with the question – if I were president of Argentina, I would…. I got to hear her political views, which were interesting. Again, no one I’ve met likes Kirchner, but she did make the point that the workers like her. It was also interesting to hear how politically based certain stuff is. For example, some people get what we would call welfare from political parties. They get it, with the agreement that they give part of it to the political party and that they will go to any protests that political party has. Dang, corruption.
After that, I had my class with Hernan. Oh, before we started, I was waiting for him in the hall, and this guy who works there (which by the way, all these computer guys are tall and skinny) was like, chill, sit down. He was paler than me! Turns out he’s from Russia but has lived here for about 9 years (he was about my age). He asked me where I was from, and when I said U.S., he was like, you look it. I wasn’t sure how to take that.
Anywho, tangent. Class with Hernan started with us completely not understanding each other. But we worked through it, and the rest of the class was smooth. We talked about the difference between make/do, which Hernan likes rules and sometimes you just gotta memorize! And also did my complaint letters lesson. I love when I can reuse lessons.
After that, I grabbed a quick bite to eat at the McDo. Since school started, the place was full of kids. I was sitting at the bar, when these kids surrounded me (in the seats, not like a mob). In order to let them all sit together, I scooted down one next to these guys who were sitting opposite each other. Because duh culture dictates that if there’s space I leave an empty one between us. Well, just as I scoot, the kids scramble off to a bigger table that had just opened up. Awkwardly ate the rest of my lunch semi-listening to these guys talk. Haha. But yea, place was SWARMING with chicos.
Then, subte’d and train’d to Quilmes. This time in transit always wears me out – when I got off the subte and noticed all the grown MEN holding their backpacks in front, I got even more paranoid. I mean, I keep nothing of real value in my backpack, but still. The Cline is just sketchy. On the train though, I got to sit next to an old lady. But then she started coughing and I was like, ohhh noo fluuuuuuuu. I’m turning into a portena.
My class started with just Pablo, who I found out is referred to as Dacoll and the other Pablo retains the name Pablo. We caught up, he asked about my birthday extravaganza and I asked about his trip to Uruguay. He’s from there, but works here. But he’s not married or anything so he goes home a lot. It’s about an 8 hour drive in a weekend. Oh, I also found out he’s currently working on an MBA at the Universidad de Palermo. So yea, he’s cool. He also called the other Pablo, who always cuts class, and I talked to him. Apparently he thought Dacoll was calling about something important, and then he got confused when his English teacher was talking to him.
Pablo was at a late lunch, so we began the phrasal verb part of the lesson without him. Half past, he showed up. He brought with him some slides from a presentation he had to give this morning. His English isn’t bad, but he gets nervous and adds all these unnecessary words, etc. So we reviewed some different phrases he could use, and I told him I would bring vocab for discussing graphs on Friday. It was a good class.
After that, Jorge y Eduardo. Jorge never skips, and he was the sweet one who brought me some alfajores for my birthday. He’s basically like a father. Eduardo skipped last week, and his English is a little worse. He just mumbles a lot and it’s difficult to understand. We joke around with each other a lot though, and so the class went by fairly quickly. It’s a little difficult sometimes because everything is really easy for Jorge and I rarely need to correct him. Eduardo, on the other hand, takes a while and I hate to constantly correct him and not Jorge. So I have to be selective. At the very end of class, I requested a photo with all of them.
Then, we spent 10 minutes with everyone looking me up on Facebook. It was precious, and Pablo D. (because I can’t think of him as Dacoll now) made me sit down and add them all right then and there.
I left the office so happy, and headed back for the train ride home, where I wrote each of them goodbye notes/encouragement with their English to give them on Friday. I think I’ll bring some alfajores too or something.
As I made the transition from the train to the subte, I didn’t dare take out my camera. The image of the train station will just have to stay fresh in my mind. I did notice a law office in the bottom of the subte station. Right, because I got to the subte to seek legal advice. Que raro.
After the subte, I was going to take the connection to near Julian’s office, for my last class with him, and hang out at a Café Martinez I found near there. However, I forgot it was rush hour, and when the people were basically stuck in traffic, I decided to forgo the sketchy subte line for a brisk walk afuera.
I had less time since I was walking, so I ended up stopping by a Burger King and got a sundae to give me some energy before my last class. Only had one moment of frustration when a guy cut in front of me in the line. I think I stared sufficiently long enough at him to at least allow him to realize that I recognized what he had done.
After that, I went to the office. Julian and I spent our last class primarily talking about career paths. He is stressed because his daughter is about to graduate high school and wants to pursue teaching. He wants her to have more “financial stability” and do agronomy, like he did. When I asked him why she chose that path, he proceeded to list about 10 characteristics that would make her a great kindergarten teacher. Sounded like a perfect fit, actually. But not to him. He said when he was in high school, he wanted to be a pilot. But he did this instead, and flying is his hobby. He wants teaching to be her hobby.
He asked my opinion, and I had to admit that I’m kind of in the same situation. Of course I want financial stability, but I don’t want to compromise want I enjoy doing to just make plata. It felt like a discussion with my dad, haha.
The hour and a half went by quickly, which was good because I had been worried we had run out of topics, and then we exchanged contact details. He also gave me some chocolate for my birthday. I told him though, that the mate cup he gave me was the best gift ever! When we walked downstairs, I got the security man to take a picture of us. We shared our last cab ride together, and then said farewell at the corner of Santa Fe y Callao.
When I got back, apparently Maria Laura had thought I wasn’t coming back for dinner….even though I ALWAYS do…..and so I chilled on the Internet while she whipped up some rice and one of her diet dishes. Joy.
National Library fail
Monday, August 3rd
Today I made myself get up at 8 a.m. Since I went to bed around 11:30, it wasn’t terribly hard. I got up, made breakfast, read, and got dressed. I love wearing green now because it pops more with my darker hair color! I then headed to Disco, where I picked up some more snack foods, including bread, pudding, cheese, and crackers! I was hoping it would be my last store trip, but I’m thinking I’ll probably make at least one more.
Came back, and then headed to the Road office, where I got all my lesson plans in order for this week. I will be so grateful when I have easily accessible internet access again.
After that, came back, ate lunch with all my leftover foods that I’m eating before I open the stuff I bought today, and then packed my bags. I headed to a school, where I met up with a teacher one of the ladies who interviewed me recommended. Basically, networking sweet networking. I arrived at the school right when the kids were changing out. There are lots of different ways that schools happen in Buenos Aires. For primary level, you can either go half a day or a full day. Most kids only go a full day if they attend a half day in English in the afternoon. Lulu does that. This was the first school I had heard of where the secondary school students (7th up) went for just a half day in the morning. And it’s a private school. I showed up, was escorted in to a stately looking room, and then Maria Cecilia met me. She led me upstairs, where I met the two other primary school teachers. I told her I really wanted to observe the high school classrooms, and she said she would email that coordinator, but since I was already there I just stayed to observe those. It was also noteworthy that there was no i.d. process or background check for me to enter the school…I just did.
I first observed a first grade classroom. Well, I actually ended up unsuccessfully teaching it. I was with the teacher Laura, and she had a new student who didn’t know any English. So while she talked with him, I was supposed to go through flashcards with the kids. But there were a lot of them, I didn’t know their names, and so we made it through with halting progress which consisted of Laura constantly snapping up to shush them. One on one though, when I went around checking their writing, I was able to ensure they were at least able to pronounce the vocabulary.
After that, I went with Cecilia to a 3rd grade classroom. This was a bit more orderly, but it still felt like half the class was spent on redirecting the children’s attention. After that, I got to go with Laura to a 6th grade class. This was my favorite. All the kids were well-behaved, and she had them write about their winter break. While she graded questions, I answered questions they had about phrases. They also had the opportunity to ask me questions. It was fun. All the classes were only 45 minutes, which again felt like insufficient time.
After that, I headed out, and walked about 45 minutes to the National Library. This time it was open, and I entered and just straight up told the guard it was my first time and what was up. He was nice though, I suppose he gets it a lot, and just told me to fill out a form. It was kind of intense. You have to show i.d. to enter, and they want your address, etc. He okay’d me, then sent me to the 5th floor. Upon entering, there were quite a few people. As I tried to get my bearing about how everything worked, I was struck by being surrounded by scholarly people more my age. I miss college environment!! Although it was less fun not knowing anyone. I LOVE running into people in Evans Library. Anyways, I sat down at a computer and tried to do a sketch. The computer was pretty good technology, but the mouse sucked majorly.
I persisted however, but my searches didn’t reveal much. I’m really trying to find a good documentation of how English education has evolved in Argentina, or just education. But especially some kind of rationale for why English must now be taught in all schools. Most of the books I found were from the 70s. So either I was searching incorrectly or they really are old. There wasn’t really anyone there to help though. Once I figured out the search engine, I went to a desk and asked how to actually get the books. Turns out you request from the computer, then about 20 minutes later your request will be brought to the desk. To read, you have to enter through ANOTHER metal detector and guard. You can’t even bring a purse in – they have lockers. Well, at this point I was tired after school and so I decided not to check out books. But I did sit down and tried different searches for books. Still no real success, but I’ll go back one morning and try a bit. Also, you can only request three books at a time, and all I have to go off is the titles. So again, prolly not much, but at least I tried.
I then walked home, stopping by the Road Office. I was really hoping to print off my lesson plans, but all the office people were still there, so I couldn’t. I’m going to go back later tonight though, hopefully. Back at home, I talked with Lu and have just been lazing around. Dinner consisted of milanesa con puree. Bed early, long day tomorrow.
Today I made myself get up at 8 a.m. Since I went to bed around 11:30, it wasn’t terribly hard. I got up, made breakfast, read, and got dressed. I love wearing green now because it pops more with my darker hair color! I then headed to Disco, where I picked up some more snack foods, including bread, pudding, cheese, and crackers! I was hoping it would be my last store trip, but I’m thinking I’ll probably make at least one more.
Came back, and then headed to the Road office, where I got all my lesson plans in order for this week. I will be so grateful when I have easily accessible internet access again.
After that, came back, ate lunch with all my leftover foods that I’m eating before I open the stuff I bought today, and then packed my bags. I headed to a school, where I met up with a teacher one of the ladies who interviewed me recommended. Basically, networking sweet networking. I arrived at the school right when the kids were changing out. There are lots of different ways that schools happen in Buenos Aires. For primary level, you can either go half a day or a full day. Most kids only go a full day if they attend a half day in English in the afternoon. Lulu does that. This was the first school I had heard of where the secondary school students (7th up) went for just a half day in the morning. And it’s a private school. I showed up, was escorted in to a stately looking room, and then Maria Cecilia met me. She led me upstairs, where I met the two other primary school teachers. I told her I really wanted to observe the high school classrooms, and she said she would email that coordinator, but since I was already there I just stayed to observe those. It was also noteworthy that there was no i.d. process or background check for me to enter the school…I just did.
I first observed a first grade classroom. Well, I actually ended up unsuccessfully teaching it. I was with the teacher Laura, and she had a new student who didn’t know any English. So while she talked with him, I was supposed to go through flashcards with the kids. But there were a lot of them, I didn’t know their names, and so we made it through with halting progress which consisted of Laura constantly snapping up to shush them. One on one though, when I went around checking their writing, I was able to ensure they were at least able to pronounce the vocabulary.
After that, I went with Cecilia to a 3rd grade classroom. This was a bit more orderly, but it still felt like half the class was spent on redirecting the children’s attention. After that, I got to go with Laura to a 6th grade class. This was my favorite. All the kids were well-behaved, and she had them write about their winter break. While she graded questions, I answered questions they had about phrases. They also had the opportunity to ask me questions. It was fun. All the classes were only 45 minutes, which again felt like insufficient time.
After that, I headed out, and walked about 45 minutes to the National Library. This time it was open, and I entered and just straight up told the guard it was my first time and what was up. He was nice though, I suppose he gets it a lot, and just told me to fill out a form. It was kind of intense. You have to show i.d. to enter, and they want your address, etc. He okay’d me, then sent me to the 5th floor. Upon entering, there were quite a few people. As I tried to get my bearing about how everything worked, I was struck by being surrounded by scholarly people more my age. I miss college environment!! Although it was less fun not knowing anyone. I LOVE running into people in Evans Library. Anyways, I sat down at a computer and tried to do a sketch. The computer was pretty good technology, but the mouse sucked majorly.
I persisted however, but my searches didn’t reveal much. I’m really trying to find a good documentation of how English education has evolved in Argentina, or just education. But especially some kind of rationale for why English must now be taught in all schools. Most of the books I found were from the 70s. So either I was searching incorrectly or they really are old. There wasn’t really anyone there to help though. Once I figured out the search engine, I went to a desk and asked how to actually get the books. Turns out you request from the computer, then about 20 minutes later your request will be brought to the desk. To read, you have to enter through ANOTHER metal detector and guard. You can’t even bring a purse in – they have lockers. Well, at this point I was tired after school and so I decided not to check out books. But I did sit down and tried different searches for books. Still no real success, but I’ll go back one morning and try a bit. Also, you can only request three books at a time, and all I have to go off is the titles. So again, prolly not much, but at least I tried.
I then walked home, stopping by the Road Office. I was really hoping to print off my lesson plans, but all the office people were still there, so I couldn’t. I’m going to go back later tonight though, hopefully. Back at home, I talked with Lu and have just been lazing around. Dinner consisted of milanesa con puree. Bed early, long day tomorrow.
Planetario y Fish Camp Shoutout!!
Sunday, August 2nd
I slept in on Sunday. I love days when I don’t set alarms. I decided to go to mass at the Carmelo church, which is a gorgeous cathedral half a block from my house. I wasn’t sure if they had mass at 11, but I went just in case. They did. They actually have it every hour on Sunday mornings. The inside was beautiful, but definitely much more modern than the church I’ve been going to. They also didn’t have awesome handouts with the readings printed on them, so I think next week I’ll go back to the other church. I was able to follow most of the mass, and the homily. They’re still skipping the Peace be with you part, but I noticed a few people cheating and wishing each other well.
I ate lunch at Propozio and got Internet! I ordered a hamburger and a coke with the same waiter as last time. He’s really nice, and he knows the booth I like. I was nervous about skyping at first, but then I realized that duh, people talk at restaurants…my people are just in a different continent.
After that, I went to the Planetario. I’ve been meaning to for a while, and tonight happened to be the last day of their winter display. meaning they were showing lots of videos, including el Principito (The Little Prince). I wanted to see this. I subte’d there, and walked over, which included walking past the zoo, La Rural, and several parks. Basically, family hub. I LOVE seeing this part of Buenos Aires – the family part with happy people and kites. Love love love it!
I arrived at the Planetario right at 4:30, which was when the show was supposed to start. I saw a line outside the building, so I asked the woman at the end if it was to see a show. She said yes, so I was like cool. Then, I realized, duh, it was probably something else, and she confirmed that the Prinicipito had already gone in. So I decided to just wait for this one. I don’t know why I was so dumb this afternoon, because then I asked her if I needed a ticket, which I knew I did. I meant to ask if I needed to already have it. We both ended up befuddled, and I am sure I sounded like a total dofus.
I went inside the building (really cool architecture!) and asked the guy if I needed a ticket. We had a really confusing conversation as well, but I finally understood and headed back to the line, where the woman had a friend. 30 minutes later, the line started to move. I asked the friend a question and found out they are students from Bolivia. We talked for a bit, but it was stunted. Once I had my ticket, there was the line for people with tickets. The Bolivians invited me to stand with them, which was nice. One girl talked to me, the other one looked at me like I was really weird.
While we were waiting, I decided to go inside and look at the exhibits to pass the time. There really wasn’t much, maybe about 8 displays with some cools gadgets. Then I went back to the line. Finally, 40 minutes later, we got to enter. The movie was a smaller Imax, and it was all about El Nuevo sistema solar. Pues, it was basically everything I’ve always heard, except this was the first program I’ve heard since Pluto (pluton) was demoted. So that was interesting. I also found out it doesn’t qualify because it hasn’t cleared out other similar bodies.
It was really warm in the theater though, and I fought sleep the entire time. After that, I walked back, which was a little long. The subte was SUPER crowded with people coming back from la rural, but luckily I had already bought my ticket and didn’t have to wait in line.
I tried to get all my lesson plans organized, but had minimal success. We all ate a dinner of pasta in Lulu’s room and chatted. I went to bed pretty early.
p.s.
Fish Camp starts this week. It’s the first year I haven’t done it. I did participate in a study abroad video that’s supposed to be shown at camp, so hopefully I’ll merit the final cut and spread my influence to ALL the freshmen. I cried a lot when I made the choice to pull my Cochair app and head abroad instead. And while it still pulls at my heart, I know I made the right choice (for me). With two amazing options such as that, I don’t think there was a wrong choice to be made. I always get really caught up in not wanting to make the “wrong choice” that will ruin everything I’ve built up. (dramatic much, no?) College just kind of built upon itself. My freshmen Fish Camp led to FLiP, which led to GLC, Fish Camp counselor, which led to SLC and Spanish major and UWC, which led to SLC Chair, which led to Italy, which led to AFIL, which led to SSFAB and MSCC VP and Buenos Aires. I can pinpoint exactly how most of those things took place. Most involved some kind of stressed out conversation on my part about not wanting to make the “wrong choice.”
As I’m faced with making some big decisions about my future now, I should remember the nights spent stressing and how everything fell into place more perfectly than I could have EVER planned. Duh. Haha, MUCH easier said than done.
I was looking at pictures from my last three years in college. It has flown by. En serio. I don’t have anything profound to say about it. These three cumulative years have everything and more. I can only hope that I continue this trend, of each year having been the best one yet. So I give thanks for everyone who has been a part of that, and for everyone who contributed to preparing me for this University life. I love it, and I am so blessed to have wonderful memories to carry me through lonely times.
I have one year left as an undergraduate at Texas A&M University. Although I am 110% happily biased, I would recommend this university to anyone for an amazing undergraduate experience. Whatever your passion, especially if you don’t yet know it (hello – example A!), the resources this University has are incomparable. It’s so beautiful, and I am so blessed to bleed maroon.
So thank you, A&M, because if I weren’t an Aggie, I wouldn’t be in Buenos Aires right now learning, loving, and living.
And Fish Camp counselors – Congratulations. You guys have been trained and have the heart to selflessly welcome in the Class of 2013. Whoop for that, and without being overly dramatic, treat the position with care. You set the Aggie standard for many freshmen.
I slept in on Sunday. I love days when I don’t set alarms. I decided to go to mass at the Carmelo church, which is a gorgeous cathedral half a block from my house. I wasn’t sure if they had mass at 11, but I went just in case. They did. They actually have it every hour on Sunday mornings. The inside was beautiful, but definitely much more modern than the church I’ve been going to. They also didn’t have awesome handouts with the readings printed on them, so I think next week I’ll go back to the other church. I was able to follow most of the mass, and the homily. They’re still skipping the Peace be with you part, but I noticed a few people cheating and wishing each other well.
I ate lunch at Propozio and got Internet! I ordered a hamburger and a coke with the same waiter as last time. He’s really nice, and he knows the booth I like. I was nervous about skyping at first, but then I realized that duh, people talk at restaurants…my people are just in a different continent.
After that, I went to the Planetario. I’ve been meaning to for a while, and tonight happened to be the last day of their winter display. meaning they were showing lots of videos, including el Principito (The Little Prince). I wanted to see this. I subte’d there, and walked over, which included walking past the zoo, La Rural, and several parks. Basically, family hub. I LOVE seeing this part of Buenos Aires – the family part with happy people and kites. Love love love it!
I arrived at the Planetario right at 4:30, which was when the show was supposed to start. I saw a line outside the building, so I asked the woman at the end if it was to see a show. She said yes, so I was like cool. Then, I realized, duh, it was probably something else, and she confirmed that the Prinicipito had already gone in. So I decided to just wait for this one. I don’t know why I was so dumb this afternoon, because then I asked her if I needed a ticket, which I knew I did. I meant to ask if I needed to already have it. We both ended up befuddled, and I am sure I sounded like a total dofus.
I went inside the building (really cool architecture!) and asked the guy if I needed a ticket. We had a really confusing conversation as well, but I finally understood and headed back to the line, where the woman had a friend. 30 minutes later, the line started to move. I asked the friend a question and found out they are students from Bolivia. We talked for a bit, but it was stunted. Once I had my ticket, there was the line for people with tickets. The Bolivians invited me to stand with them, which was nice. One girl talked to me, the other one looked at me like I was really weird.
While we were waiting, I decided to go inside and look at the exhibits to pass the time. There really wasn’t much, maybe about 8 displays with some cools gadgets. Then I went back to the line. Finally, 40 minutes later, we got to enter. The movie was a smaller Imax, and it was all about El Nuevo sistema solar. Pues, it was basically everything I’ve always heard, except this was the first program I’ve heard since Pluto (pluton) was demoted. So that was interesting. I also found out it doesn’t qualify because it hasn’t cleared out other similar bodies.
It was really warm in the theater though, and I fought sleep the entire time. After that, I walked back, which was a little long. The subte was SUPER crowded with people coming back from la rural, but luckily I had already bought my ticket and didn’t have to wait in line.
I tried to get all my lesson plans organized, but had minimal success. We all ate a dinner of pasta in Lulu’s room and chatted. I went to bed pretty early.
p.s.
Fish Camp starts this week. It’s the first year I haven’t done it. I did participate in a study abroad video that’s supposed to be shown at camp, so hopefully I’ll merit the final cut and spread my influence to ALL the freshmen. I cried a lot when I made the choice to pull my Cochair app and head abroad instead. And while it still pulls at my heart, I know I made the right choice (for me). With two amazing options such as that, I don’t think there was a wrong choice to be made. I always get really caught up in not wanting to make the “wrong choice” that will ruin everything I’ve built up. (dramatic much, no?) College just kind of built upon itself. My freshmen Fish Camp led to FLiP, which led to GLC, Fish Camp counselor, which led to SLC and Spanish major and UWC, which led to SLC Chair, which led to Italy, which led to AFIL, which led to SSFAB and MSCC VP and Buenos Aires. I can pinpoint exactly how most of those things took place. Most involved some kind of stressed out conversation on my part about not wanting to make the “wrong choice.”
As I’m faced with making some big decisions about my future now, I should remember the nights spent stressing and how everything fell into place more perfectly than I could have EVER planned. Duh. Haha, MUCH easier said than done.
I was looking at pictures from my last three years in college. It has flown by. En serio. I don’t have anything profound to say about it. These three cumulative years have everything and more. I can only hope that I continue this trend, of each year having been the best one yet. So I give thanks for everyone who has been a part of that, and for everyone who contributed to preparing me for this University life. I love it, and I am so blessed to have wonderful memories to carry me through lonely times.
I have one year left as an undergraduate at Texas A&M University. Although I am 110% happily biased, I would recommend this university to anyone for an amazing undergraduate experience. Whatever your passion, especially if you don’t yet know it (hello – example A!), the resources this University has are incomparable. It’s so beautiful, and I am so blessed to bleed maroon.
So thank you, A&M, because if I weren’t an Aggie, I wouldn’t be in Buenos Aires right now learning, loving, and living.
And Fish Camp counselors – Congratulations. You guys have been trained and have the heart to selflessly welcome in the Class of 2013. Whoop for that, and without being overly dramatic, treat the position with care. You set the Aggie standard for many freshmen.
Rebeca's Farewell
Saturday, August 1st
I just stayed the night at the Roadhouse, and it was a lovely sleep in. Upon waking up, I went home to change. Lulu was precious – did you JUST get back????? (big eyes). I responded yes, but that I had slept at my friend Rebeca’s house.
Back at the House, Rebe and I went for her last medialunas y café in Buenos Aires at Acusso (sp?) café. I actually got te con leche. After that, we went to the Recoleta market, where she was looking for a ring. I perused items, but didn’t buy anything. I figure I’ll go back in one of my last weekends.
After that, we walked to the flower and saw it one last time (well, for Rebe anyways). On the way back, we stopped by a confiteria and picked up some dessert. It’s a cute place. Back at the House, Rebe packed, etc. and I used the internet. Then, we made an awesome meal out of her leftovers, which included a hamburger patty, the final slices of bread, some cheese, some coke, etc. It was a fun and good final meal. Feast of the leftovers, if you will.
Pretty quickly after that we hauled her stuff downstairs to the cab and I bid her farewell! Walking back to the house was odd, mainly because my social life just died a lot, but at the same time I have a pretty full schedule (at least this week), so that plus all the homework I’ve been putting off all summer should keep me entertained.
I was exhausted, so I took a nap. When I woke up, Maria Laura was leaving to go out. I feel bad – she’s been going out with Walter for like the past 5 Saturdays….he didn’t call this Saturday. She was pretty upset, but kudos that she at least goes out and doesn’t stay home and mope. Homegirl has way more game than I do. So I fixed myself some chicken and rice, responded to some really wonderful birthday messages, and then just went to sleep.
I just stayed the night at the Roadhouse, and it was a lovely sleep in. Upon waking up, I went home to change. Lulu was precious – did you JUST get back????? (big eyes). I responded yes, but that I had slept at my friend Rebeca’s house.
Back at the House, Rebe and I went for her last medialunas y café in Buenos Aires at Acusso (sp?) café. I actually got te con leche. After that, we went to the Recoleta market, where she was looking for a ring. I perused items, but didn’t buy anything. I figure I’ll go back in one of my last weekends.
After that, we walked to the flower and saw it one last time (well, for Rebe anyways). On the way back, we stopped by a confiteria and picked up some dessert. It’s a cute place. Back at the House, Rebe packed, etc. and I used the internet. Then, we made an awesome meal out of her leftovers, which included a hamburger patty, the final slices of bread, some cheese, some coke, etc. It was a fun and good final meal. Feast of the leftovers, if you will.
Pretty quickly after that we hauled her stuff downstairs to the cab and I bid her farewell! Walking back to the house was odd, mainly because my social life just died a lot, but at the same time I have a pretty full schedule (at least this week), so that plus all the homework I’ve been putting off all summer should keep me entertained.
I was exhausted, so I took a nap. When I woke up, Maria Laura was leaving to go out. I feel bad – she’s been going out with Walter for like the past 5 Saturdays….he didn’t call this Saturday. She was pretty upset, but kudos that she at least goes out and doesn’t stay home and mope. Homegirl has way more game than I do. So I fixed myself some chicken and rice, responded to some really wonderful birthday messages, and then just went to sleep.
21 Celebrations!
Friday, July 31st!
I got up this morning with a major lack of sleep, and I headed to my lesson with Betty. We worked on asking questions. I just went down a list and asked her questions, and then she asked me questions. At the end, I asked her if I could have a picture with her for my records. She was really excited, took off her classes, fixed her hair, called in her maid, and had us move to the sofa. It was really cute. We also exchanged emails and I asked her to let me know how the conference went.
I headed back to my house, ate breakfast, made copies for class, and also picked up another phone card. I actually use my phone quite a bit when communicating with Monica about my classes. Plus, I don’t like my account to be so low it won’t let me make a call in case anything happens.
I went by the Roadhouse, and Rebeca and I got Chinese food. I’ve gotten it several times, and it’s really good. Rebe found a lunch special, so I got more than I normally do. I just kept my leftovers at the Roadhouse.
Then, I headed, somewhat reluctantly, to Quilmes. I don’t take my Ipod anymore, after being mildly reprimanded by Pablo. Most people here, if they have one, only have a shuffle, so mine stands out for its size. And apparently even just seeing my headphones is asking for it. So I don’t take it out anymore, which is kind of a bummer because I had enjoyed walking around the city with it.
I had kind of hoped today would be one of the short days, but no luck. It was ok though. Both Pablo’s attended class, which is rare, and I went through some phrases which I had pulled out specifically for the Pablo who never attends. He was grateful, and gifted me with an alfajor. To which the other Pablo asked him if he knew it was my birthday. He didn’t, and I don’t think I got a good look when I told him I was 21. It seemed more like, what kind of baby teacher are they sending to teach me English. Oh wells!
My second class was just with Jorge. He’s good, and we sped through everything and just ended up talking for about an hour. I apologized, but I told him – his English is really good, and most of the stuff I bring for the other guys he just speeds through. He brought me a whole roll of alfajores (6 total) as a birthday gift, which was really sweet.
I returned home, ready for tea time! I checked my email, and received the awesome birthday news that I was selected as one of the student ambassadors for a conference in China! My shouts were transferred to my parents via email, which my mom “shouted” back, so that was good.
Maria Laura came back and put together the teach party, and I sincerely appreciate her enthusiasm for making me feel special. This was a crazy hectic week for her, and she really put forth an effort to put on the “tea party”. We set the table, and at 6:30 (Maria Laura made fun of her punctuality) Rebe came over. Lulu and her friend Agust attended as well. We had hot chocolate, mini sandwiches with ham and cheese, AND a dulce de leche torta, complete with a 21 candle that sparked! I also got a gift of some lotion with a hint of lemon.
All in all, it was a really fun and sweet time. After that, we talked with Maria Laura for a while, before turning on some music, dancing, singing, and just being goofy. Poor Uma. I don’t like the dog, but she got danced with, as well as dressed up in some Halloween costumes.
Then I changed, curled my hair, and met Rebe at the corner. We tried to hail a cab, which was actually harder than we thought it would be. We finally awkwardly got one, but he was crazy. In that he stopped in the middle of the road, swerved facing the wrong way of traffic on the cross street. That probably should’ve indicated to us not to get in, but we did. He was grumbling about our faulty signaling and commented that we must be American. I didn’t say anything, but I wrote to Rebe to say something fast in Spanish so he wouldn’t think that. So we ignored his questions, gave him the address, and just went. But I tell you, we nearly crashed about 3 times. It was the worst taxi ride I’ve been in. After he heard us talking, he was like, so you’re from argentina or what? But we again just ignored him.
We finally scrambled out of the car, and rang the doorbell to Sebas house! He let us in and there were lots of people. Aside from a few Road people, we didn’t really know anyone. We just talked with Blanca and David, who work at the Roadhouse. I also talked to a girl who went to school with Sebas. I did get a picture with him though, which required my taking off my purse and jacket. So I’m pretty sure he knows I’m mildly obsessed with him. There were pizza and drinks, and I also was able to pick out the other members of his family. Beautiful family. And it’s crazy because from the outside it looks like an ugly building with graffiti, and then on the inside it’s this beautiful home that his parents have created.
After a while, we headed out. I reminded him to keep his blog updated on his adventures throughout Australia and China. We taxied to Plaza Serrano and walked around outside the various locales trying to find a place. Neither Rebe nor I are good at this kind of thing, so we finally ended up at the restaurant we had visited with Stacy on one of our first nights. We had just ordered when Jon showed up. Even though we were indoors, I was still cold, so I borrowed Jon’s jacket…which I ended up keeping the entire night. We stayed there for a couple of hours, until past 3, then hopped in a cab and headed to a boliche. It was this place called Mint, which some of the people from the gathering last night were going to. Pues, as the cab driver went outside of the main city, and then dropped us off in this weird place, our guard was up.
There were lots of people, many cars, and more people waiting in line outside. We got in line, and we told to wait there to get inside Mint. Pues, it was FREEZING. And the girls were all dressed REALLY nice. It seemed like the top of the porteno crowd, not to mention their heels were outrageous. I felt underdressed. We made it through the first line, only to go up a hill and still not be able to see where the entrance was, nor how many more lines there were. So we left, which I only felt a little bad for making Jon leave because it was really cold.
We were just going to taxi back to our neighborhood, but we asked the driver if he knew of any other boliches near where we were. He said maybe, and he actually radio’d his supervisor and checked on one called….Shampoo……for us. And that’s not a translation either, it’s really called Shampoo. Well, it was open, and so we asked him where it was and were going to get out of the cab. However, he offered to carry us the rest of the way with no extra charge. We accepted, and it turned out to be about 10 blocks so I was thankful for it.
Pues, apparently this place used to be a strip club. I think there’s still some remanants. There was a bouncer in front of the entrance, and a rope extended from the door to the sidewalk. People were crowded all around, some begging some bribing him to get in. We stood there confused for about 5 minutes before deciding to just walk home.
We made it back, and at first we were going to stay up to head out to the flower when the sun rose. However, with the toasty room, fatigue hit, and we watched an episode of Friends and part of 90210 before deciding to just go to sleep around 6:30 a.m.
I got up this morning with a major lack of sleep, and I headed to my lesson with Betty. We worked on asking questions. I just went down a list and asked her questions, and then she asked me questions. At the end, I asked her if I could have a picture with her for my records. She was really excited, took off her classes, fixed her hair, called in her maid, and had us move to the sofa. It was really cute. We also exchanged emails and I asked her to let me know how the conference went.
I headed back to my house, ate breakfast, made copies for class, and also picked up another phone card. I actually use my phone quite a bit when communicating with Monica about my classes. Plus, I don’t like my account to be so low it won’t let me make a call in case anything happens.
I went by the Roadhouse, and Rebeca and I got Chinese food. I’ve gotten it several times, and it’s really good. Rebe found a lunch special, so I got more than I normally do. I just kept my leftovers at the Roadhouse.
Then, I headed, somewhat reluctantly, to Quilmes. I don’t take my Ipod anymore, after being mildly reprimanded by Pablo. Most people here, if they have one, only have a shuffle, so mine stands out for its size. And apparently even just seeing my headphones is asking for it. So I don’t take it out anymore, which is kind of a bummer because I had enjoyed walking around the city with it.
I had kind of hoped today would be one of the short days, but no luck. It was ok though. Both Pablo’s attended class, which is rare, and I went through some phrases which I had pulled out specifically for the Pablo who never attends. He was grateful, and gifted me with an alfajor. To which the other Pablo asked him if he knew it was my birthday. He didn’t, and I don’t think I got a good look when I told him I was 21. It seemed more like, what kind of baby teacher are they sending to teach me English. Oh wells!
My second class was just with Jorge. He’s good, and we sped through everything and just ended up talking for about an hour. I apologized, but I told him – his English is really good, and most of the stuff I bring for the other guys he just speeds through. He brought me a whole roll of alfajores (6 total) as a birthday gift, which was really sweet.
I returned home, ready for tea time! I checked my email, and received the awesome birthday news that I was selected as one of the student ambassadors for a conference in China! My shouts were transferred to my parents via email, which my mom “shouted” back, so that was good.
Maria Laura came back and put together the teach party, and I sincerely appreciate her enthusiasm for making me feel special. This was a crazy hectic week for her, and she really put forth an effort to put on the “tea party”. We set the table, and at 6:30 (Maria Laura made fun of her punctuality) Rebe came over. Lulu and her friend Agust attended as well. We had hot chocolate, mini sandwiches with ham and cheese, AND a dulce de leche torta, complete with a 21 candle that sparked! I also got a gift of some lotion with a hint of lemon.
All in all, it was a really fun and sweet time. After that, we talked with Maria Laura for a while, before turning on some music, dancing, singing, and just being goofy. Poor Uma. I don’t like the dog, but she got danced with, as well as dressed up in some Halloween costumes.
Then I changed, curled my hair, and met Rebe at the corner. We tried to hail a cab, which was actually harder than we thought it would be. We finally awkwardly got one, but he was crazy. In that he stopped in the middle of the road, swerved facing the wrong way of traffic on the cross street. That probably should’ve indicated to us not to get in, but we did. He was grumbling about our faulty signaling and commented that we must be American. I didn’t say anything, but I wrote to Rebe to say something fast in Spanish so he wouldn’t think that. So we ignored his questions, gave him the address, and just went. But I tell you, we nearly crashed about 3 times. It was the worst taxi ride I’ve been in. After he heard us talking, he was like, so you’re from argentina or what? But we again just ignored him.
We finally scrambled out of the car, and rang the doorbell to Sebas house! He let us in and there were lots of people. Aside from a few Road people, we didn’t really know anyone. We just talked with Blanca and David, who work at the Roadhouse. I also talked to a girl who went to school with Sebas. I did get a picture with him though, which required my taking off my purse and jacket. So I’m pretty sure he knows I’m mildly obsessed with him. There were pizza and drinks, and I also was able to pick out the other members of his family. Beautiful family. And it’s crazy because from the outside it looks like an ugly building with graffiti, and then on the inside it’s this beautiful home that his parents have created.
After a while, we headed out. I reminded him to keep his blog updated on his adventures throughout Australia and China. We taxied to Plaza Serrano and walked around outside the various locales trying to find a place. Neither Rebe nor I are good at this kind of thing, so we finally ended up at the restaurant we had visited with Stacy on one of our first nights. We had just ordered when Jon showed up. Even though we were indoors, I was still cold, so I borrowed Jon’s jacket…which I ended up keeping the entire night. We stayed there for a couple of hours, until past 3, then hopped in a cab and headed to a boliche. It was this place called Mint, which some of the people from the gathering last night were going to. Pues, as the cab driver went outside of the main city, and then dropped us off in this weird place, our guard was up.
There were lots of people, many cars, and more people waiting in line outside. We got in line, and we told to wait there to get inside Mint. Pues, it was FREEZING. And the girls were all dressed REALLY nice. It seemed like the top of the porteno crowd, not to mention their heels were outrageous. I felt underdressed. We made it through the first line, only to go up a hill and still not be able to see where the entrance was, nor how many more lines there were. So we left, which I only felt a little bad for making Jon leave because it was really cold.
We were just going to taxi back to our neighborhood, but we asked the driver if he knew of any other boliches near where we were. He said maybe, and he actually radio’d his supervisor and checked on one called….Shampoo……for us. And that’s not a translation either, it’s really called Shampoo. Well, it was open, and so we asked him where it was and were going to get out of the cab. However, he offered to carry us the rest of the way with no extra charge. We accepted, and it turned out to be about 10 blocks so I was thankful for it.
Pues, apparently this place used to be a strip club. I think there’s still some remanants. There was a bouncer in front of the entrance, and a rope extended from the door to the sidewalk. People were crowded all around, some begging some bribing him to get in. We stood there confused for about 5 minutes before deciding to just walk home.
We made it back, and at first we were going to stay up to head out to the flower when the sun rose. However, with the toasty room, fatigue hit, and we watched an episode of Friends and part of 90210 before deciding to just go to sleep around 6:30 a.m.
Birthday Eve
Thursday, July 30th
Woohoo, the day before my birthday! I woke up and Maria Laura was already cooking. She has had about triple her normal cooking orders this week, as the company she works for just switched to an online system. I seriously think the entire time I’ve lived here she has worked maybe twice a week with cooking. She has done it every day this week….and all day too, not just the half days I’ve seen. It’s intense.
I took the subte to Olleros, which is a really nice subte stop, btw. I figure it’s because it was added later, but it’s really big and spacious and just cleaner looking.
At class with Florencia, I got my first real mate experience! Now, mate is like tea. But the Argentines drink it out of a cup with herbs, into which they just constantly pour hot water. Also, you drink it from a metal straw. And you share it like a peace pipe. I had been offered it several times before, but never accepted what with all the swine flu hype and several times it was people I didn’t know, like on the bus or something. So no. But I was going to be really sad if I left BA without officially trying it, and Maria Laura doesn’t drink it.
So I started talking to Florencia about it, and the next thing I know we’re sharing it! You take turns by drinking down the water, then passing it back, refilling, and the other persons turn. It was Awesome! We also had a long talk about bus robbers, etc. in BA, and it has made me SO paranoid. I mean, I’ve been really jumpy since my backpack got unzipped, but now I feel ridiculous but I suspect everyone. It’s really stressful and I need to chill out a bit, but every person is a suspect. Oh, also, Florencia has been dating her boyfriend for 5 years now. She’s 22, so definitely still young. But I hope that when I’ve dated someone for five years that I still smile about them the way she does. It was so cute!!
Class with Hernan passed with him discussing his IT works. Thanks to my dad and Drew I was able to say that I had at least heard of a lot of the terms he was throwing at me. We talked about servers, computers, credit card transfers, blablabla. He also explained how his language call center works…help desk for the software they sell.
I then found out I’ll be coming back next week. Their teacher has the flu, and since they’re paranoid they don’t want her to come back until they’re sure she’s better. Apparently they liked me, so I get to come back next week. I truthfully believe that my best teaching tool is my enthusiasm. Even if the material is hard or maybe not put together in the best way, I just smile and put on my really interested face, and the class time passes really quickly!
I stopped by McDo again, but their credit card swiper was down, bummer. After that, I needed to go to the orphanage. I had been debating whether or not I would go, but I decided to do it because I would have to travel by myself and I needed to make sure I could navigate the bus system. So I pulled out my GuiaT and found the square on the map where the bus should stop. I had to ask a few people to point me in the right direction once I actually made it to the street, but I made it onto the bus. I didn’t feel like reading, so I just watched the scenery as the hour trip took place. When we got on the neighborhood street, I asked the bus driver to tell me when we made it to my crossstreet.
I walked to the orphanage through a deserted but really pretty neighborhood. It reminds me of the nice neighborhoods in the States. Upon arriving, Ada, the orphanage coordinator, announced we were going to the Plaza. When we got there, I played some games with the boys in the beginning…their versions of tag, etc, but when I finally actually tagged one of them they decided they were tired of the game. Go figure ;)
Aside from that 20 minute game, I again didn’t feel very useful. They have lots of adults at the orphanage, as well as other volunteers. Most of the time I feel like I’m just sitting. One of the other volunteers there today was from England. He is 18, just graduated high school. I felt old.
We had to walk another 20 minutes to make it to the bus. From there, it was about an hour ride back in town, especially with the traffic. By the time I made it on the subte I knew I was going to be late for my lesson with Julian. I was about 14 minutes late, and he was like, is everything ok? To which I explained that I was coming from the orphanage, and I think he was ok with it, but I’m not sure. We talked about Argentina politics the entire time, which was interesting. I have no idea what we’re going to talk about next Tuesday though, our last class.
On our way out, he didn’t invite me to ride home with him. Well, I then asked him if it would be ok for his cab to drop me off at a street he already crosses at. I felt kind of bad for asking, but I really don’t want to have to ride the subte from there.
Back at home, I had a dinner of rice and chicken, then met Rebe and headed to Sierra’s apartment. I met a lot of new people, as well as officially turned 21!!!
Woohoo, the day before my birthday! I woke up and Maria Laura was already cooking. She has had about triple her normal cooking orders this week, as the company she works for just switched to an online system. I seriously think the entire time I’ve lived here she has worked maybe twice a week with cooking. She has done it every day this week….and all day too, not just the half days I’ve seen. It’s intense.
I took the subte to Olleros, which is a really nice subte stop, btw. I figure it’s because it was added later, but it’s really big and spacious and just cleaner looking.
At class with Florencia, I got my first real mate experience! Now, mate is like tea. But the Argentines drink it out of a cup with herbs, into which they just constantly pour hot water. Also, you drink it from a metal straw. And you share it like a peace pipe. I had been offered it several times before, but never accepted what with all the swine flu hype and several times it was people I didn’t know, like on the bus or something. So no. But I was going to be really sad if I left BA without officially trying it, and Maria Laura doesn’t drink it.
So I started talking to Florencia about it, and the next thing I know we’re sharing it! You take turns by drinking down the water, then passing it back, refilling, and the other persons turn. It was Awesome! We also had a long talk about bus robbers, etc. in BA, and it has made me SO paranoid. I mean, I’ve been really jumpy since my backpack got unzipped, but now I feel ridiculous but I suspect everyone. It’s really stressful and I need to chill out a bit, but every person is a suspect. Oh, also, Florencia has been dating her boyfriend for 5 years now. She’s 22, so definitely still young. But I hope that when I’ve dated someone for five years that I still smile about them the way she does. It was so cute!!
Class with Hernan passed with him discussing his IT works. Thanks to my dad and Drew I was able to say that I had at least heard of a lot of the terms he was throwing at me. We talked about servers, computers, credit card transfers, blablabla. He also explained how his language call center works…help desk for the software they sell.
I then found out I’ll be coming back next week. Their teacher has the flu, and since they’re paranoid they don’t want her to come back until they’re sure she’s better. Apparently they liked me, so I get to come back next week. I truthfully believe that my best teaching tool is my enthusiasm. Even if the material is hard or maybe not put together in the best way, I just smile and put on my really interested face, and the class time passes really quickly!
I stopped by McDo again, but their credit card swiper was down, bummer. After that, I needed to go to the orphanage. I had been debating whether or not I would go, but I decided to do it because I would have to travel by myself and I needed to make sure I could navigate the bus system. So I pulled out my GuiaT and found the square on the map where the bus should stop. I had to ask a few people to point me in the right direction once I actually made it to the street, but I made it onto the bus. I didn’t feel like reading, so I just watched the scenery as the hour trip took place. When we got on the neighborhood street, I asked the bus driver to tell me when we made it to my crossstreet.
I walked to the orphanage through a deserted but really pretty neighborhood. It reminds me of the nice neighborhoods in the States. Upon arriving, Ada, the orphanage coordinator, announced we were going to the Plaza. When we got there, I played some games with the boys in the beginning…their versions of tag, etc, but when I finally actually tagged one of them they decided they were tired of the game. Go figure ;)
Aside from that 20 minute game, I again didn’t feel very useful. They have lots of adults at the orphanage, as well as other volunteers. Most of the time I feel like I’m just sitting. One of the other volunteers there today was from England. He is 18, just graduated high school. I felt old.
We had to walk another 20 minutes to make it to the bus. From there, it was about an hour ride back in town, especially with the traffic. By the time I made it on the subte I knew I was going to be late for my lesson with Julian. I was about 14 minutes late, and he was like, is everything ok? To which I explained that I was coming from the orphanage, and I think he was ok with it, but I’m not sure. We talked about Argentina politics the entire time, which was interesting. I have no idea what we’re going to talk about next Tuesday though, our last class.
On our way out, he didn’t invite me to ride home with him. Well, I then asked him if it would be ok for his cab to drop me off at a street he already crosses at. I felt kind of bad for asking, but I really don’t want to have to ride the subte from there.
Back at home, I had a dinner of rice and chicken, then met Rebe and headed to Sierra’s apartment. I met a lot of new people, as well as officially turned 21!!!
Fail at shoe buying....
Wednesday, July 29th
I have to love those Betty classes, as they require me to wake up around 7:15. I made it almost on time though, and we got started. She did inform me that Friday would be her last lesson because she has to spend next week getting ready for her trip to Miami. I still don’ t feel like she’ s ready, so I decided to give her lots of questions that will hopefully be useful for her during the conference.
I decided to walk home in lieu of the crowded subte, and I took a different way. There are always temptations and new things to see along the way – whether it’s a confiteria or a cool shop, like the watch/clock shop I saw on a new street. I got confused because I thought I should be on Charcas, but turns out a different street exists near Santa Fe that runs parallel to Charcas in this one part of town I was in. Cool. Always learning new things.
I interviewed Ines, the woman who runs one of the language businesses for companies now. She taught high school English back in ’75, so it’s a bit of a stretch for the thesis, but I figured it couldn’t hurt. She provided some interesting thoughts, as well as some new terms for me – like ‘economy of elements.’ She really is passionate about what she’s doing though, which is nice to see.
Back at the Roadhouse, I worked on my lesson plans and told Alyssa bye. I also ran into Sebas, who happily informed me that he was leaving for a year abroad Saturday and that I was invited to his going away party on Friday night. I was super excited, which you would understand if you saw his joyful face, and even more so when he was like, not everyone is invited from Road, but of course you are! Giddy might be the more appropriate word, actually.
Rebe came downtown with me as I sought boots at a store sale. I found a pair I actually really liked, but then they didn’t have my color nor my size. I’m pretty sure I’m a size 40 here, which was the biggest size they carried. The guy mildly laughed when I asked him. Gah, big feet.
Came back, told Alyssa bye, finished lesson plans (my lifeeeeeeee. The difference with what I’m doing more freelance is that I can’t just follow a textbook), and then watched a bit of a movie with Rebe.
Then I headed home, changed, and went BACK to the Roadhouse, where Rebe and I met up and walked to a tango show at this restaurant. I had forgotten to write down the exact address, so we were kind of walking blindly. As we exited the subte, someone tapped me, which gave me a bit of a fright. Turns out it was Jon, who said he kind of knew where we needed to go. Turns out he was completely wrong, but then we saw a Road person, and found out the wrong address had been sent out so he was actually right. Cool.
We got in and sat down at a new people. Most of the winter (your summer) Road people have left…Rebe is one of the last ones to go this week….so we didn’t know most of the people. However we met a cute couple – Sierra and Terrence, who invited us to a gathering at their house the next night.
I wasn’t going to get anything at the restaurant, but you know what happens when you smell food, so rebe and I split a cheese/onion pizza. It was really yummy! During this, the band was playing. They were good, and I enjoyed their tango music. They were a sextet, but at first there were only 5 people onstage. Oh, then the singer came out. Making it a sextet. I preferred the quintet, but I lean towards the instrumental side myself.
The walk home was cold, and then I realized Maria Laura had left out some chicken for me. Even though I was really full, I ate it before going to bed.
I have to love those Betty classes, as they require me to wake up around 7:15. I made it almost on time though, and we got started. She did inform me that Friday would be her last lesson because she has to spend next week getting ready for her trip to Miami. I still don’ t feel like she’ s ready, so I decided to give her lots of questions that will hopefully be useful for her during the conference.
I decided to walk home in lieu of the crowded subte, and I took a different way. There are always temptations and new things to see along the way – whether it’s a confiteria or a cool shop, like the watch/clock shop I saw on a new street. I got confused because I thought I should be on Charcas, but turns out a different street exists near Santa Fe that runs parallel to Charcas in this one part of town I was in. Cool. Always learning new things.
I interviewed Ines, the woman who runs one of the language businesses for companies now. She taught high school English back in ’75, so it’s a bit of a stretch for the thesis, but I figured it couldn’t hurt. She provided some interesting thoughts, as well as some new terms for me – like ‘economy of elements.’ She really is passionate about what she’s doing though, which is nice to see.
Back at the Roadhouse, I worked on my lesson plans and told Alyssa bye. I also ran into Sebas, who happily informed me that he was leaving for a year abroad Saturday and that I was invited to his going away party on Friday night. I was super excited, which you would understand if you saw his joyful face, and even more so when he was like, not everyone is invited from Road, but of course you are! Giddy might be the more appropriate word, actually.
Rebe came downtown with me as I sought boots at a store sale. I found a pair I actually really liked, but then they didn’t have my color nor my size. I’m pretty sure I’m a size 40 here, which was the biggest size they carried. The guy mildly laughed when I asked him. Gah, big feet.
Came back, told Alyssa bye, finished lesson plans (my lifeeeeeeee. The difference with what I’m doing more freelance is that I can’t just follow a textbook), and then watched a bit of a movie with Rebe.
Then I headed home, changed, and went BACK to the Roadhouse, where Rebe and I met up and walked to a tango show at this restaurant. I had forgotten to write down the exact address, so we were kind of walking blindly. As we exited the subte, someone tapped me, which gave me a bit of a fright. Turns out it was Jon, who said he kind of knew where we needed to go. Turns out he was completely wrong, but then we saw a Road person, and found out the wrong address had been sent out so he was actually right. Cool.
We got in and sat down at a new people. Most of the winter (your summer) Road people have left…Rebe is one of the last ones to go this week….so we didn’t know most of the people. However we met a cute couple – Sierra and Terrence, who invited us to a gathering at their house the next night.
I wasn’t going to get anything at the restaurant, but you know what happens when you smell food, so rebe and I split a cheese/onion pizza. It was really yummy! During this, the band was playing. They were good, and I enjoyed their tango music. They were a sextet, but at first there were only 5 people onstage. Oh, then the singer came out. Making it a sextet. I preferred the quintet, but I lean towards the instrumental side myself.
The walk home was cold, and then I realized Maria Laura had left out some chicken for me. Even though I was really full, I ate it before going to bed.
Belgrano subsitute classes
Tuesday, July 28th
This morning I had to go to Belgrano to substitute for the teacher Laura who is sick. I thought class started at 9, so I got there really early..it started at 9:30. Then, my student was a little late. However, when she arrived it was really cool. Her name is Florencia, and she is 22, so basically my age. She works full time and goes to school. She was originally studying chemistry, but decided to switch to business because of the commitment studying chemistry requires. I couldn’t believe that she works here from 9-6 every day, then goes to school 3 nights a week. That must be good for her professional career, but certainly not for school! She also was just a marketing assistant, but when her director left she was offered the position. So now she coordinates the companies business in all the Americas, which I’m just thinking wow. And you’re only a year older than me. Her English is really good, she is just really shy about it. Pronouncing the letter “j” with a hard sound is also something she struggles with.
My second class was with Hernan who is really nice. He really likes his English rules, and constantly was asking me questions about the lessons in terms of which rule it conforms too. We didn’t have much in common though, so we just stuck to the general lesson.
I ate lunch at McDo, and it was fast! They had an extra person ready to retrieve my order. I also like it because when you order an hamburguesa con queso…it really is just a burger with cheese, and I don’t have to worry about yucky other stuff getting added.
I left straight from McDo to the subte to the train to Quilmes. I entertained myself by drawing memorable points from each of the train stops. I had one of the best classes with Jorge and Eduardo. We took up the entire hour and a half, starting with a phrasal verb review, then a worksheet, then reviewing phrases, and then a debate between them. I felt like they really got a lot out of it, and the lesson just went really well! On the train ride back, I was cold, but happy.
I didn’t feel like going back to my house for 30 minutes and then having to travel back downtown, so I just got off at the downtown subte stop and ended up chilling in a McDo with some French fries and a coke. Before that though, I saw a motorcycle man steal a ladies purse. It was really sad, and full of yelling, and she and a guy took off down the street after him. I’m not sure how the story turned out though. I also saw an amazing shoe store I hope to return to – I really want a pair of boots!! Got my hopes up when I saw a sign and several computers advertising McDo internet. As a server coldly informed me, I have to BUY the internet. However, I had already thrown away my trash in the hopes of getting on a computer, so when that didn’t pan out, I sat back down. However, the security guard kept watching me, and I sincerely thought I was going to get thrown out of McDo since I looked like a squatter. So I left quickly and just walked slowly to class. I picked up some chocolate along the way and put on a brave face so I’d be charged and ready for class with Julian. Thankfully, the conversation flowed pretty easily on its own about grain and his work.
After class, I came home and was ready to crash. It was Alyssa’s last night, but I was in bed instead of going out. It was a fulfilling 12 hour day though. Makin’ that plata ;)
This morning I had to go to Belgrano to substitute for the teacher Laura who is sick. I thought class started at 9, so I got there really early..it started at 9:30. Then, my student was a little late. However, when she arrived it was really cool. Her name is Florencia, and she is 22, so basically my age. She works full time and goes to school. She was originally studying chemistry, but decided to switch to business because of the commitment studying chemistry requires. I couldn’t believe that she works here from 9-6 every day, then goes to school 3 nights a week. That must be good for her professional career, but certainly not for school! She also was just a marketing assistant, but when her director left she was offered the position. So now she coordinates the companies business in all the Americas, which I’m just thinking wow. And you’re only a year older than me. Her English is really good, she is just really shy about it. Pronouncing the letter “j” with a hard sound is also something she struggles with.
My second class was with Hernan who is really nice. He really likes his English rules, and constantly was asking me questions about the lessons in terms of which rule it conforms too. We didn’t have much in common though, so we just stuck to the general lesson.
I ate lunch at McDo, and it was fast! They had an extra person ready to retrieve my order. I also like it because when you order an hamburguesa con queso…it really is just a burger with cheese, and I don’t have to worry about yucky other stuff getting added.
I left straight from McDo to the subte to the train to Quilmes. I entertained myself by drawing memorable points from each of the train stops. I had one of the best classes with Jorge and Eduardo. We took up the entire hour and a half, starting with a phrasal verb review, then a worksheet, then reviewing phrases, and then a debate between them. I felt like they really got a lot out of it, and the lesson just went really well! On the train ride back, I was cold, but happy.
I didn’t feel like going back to my house for 30 minutes and then having to travel back downtown, so I just got off at the downtown subte stop and ended up chilling in a McDo with some French fries and a coke. Before that though, I saw a motorcycle man steal a ladies purse. It was really sad, and full of yelling, and she and a guy took off down the street after him. I’m not sure how the story turned out though. I also saw an amazing shoe store I hope to return to – I really want a pair of boots!! Got my hopes up when I saw a sign and several computers advertising McDo internet. As a server coldly informed me, I have to BUY the internet. However, I had already thrown away my trash in the hopes of getting on a computer, so when that didn’t pan out, I sat back down. However, the security guard kept watching me, and I sincerely thought I was going to get thrown out of McDo since I looked like a squatter. So I left quickly and just walked slowly to class. I picked up some chocolate along the way and put on a brave face so I’d be charged and ready for class with Julian. Thankfully, the conversation flowed pretty easily on its own about grain and his work.
After class, I came home and was ready to crash. It was Alyssa’s last night, but I was in bed instead of going out. It was a fulfilling 12 hour day though. Makin’ that plata ;)
La Rural
Monday, July 27th
Today began with a glass of chocolate milk and some strawberry toast. I then went down to the photocopy shop and got three classes worth of copies. I don’t have them all finished, but I’m doing better than I thought I would.
Came back to my apartment, put stuff up, and headed down to the subte station, where I met Rebeca. We went to La Rural today, which is basically the rodeo inside Buenos Aires! We got there around 10:30, with the original intent to hear a lecture about bovine genetics. However, there was no master program present, so we couldn’t find it. We ended up walking around and had a great time. Started with the chickens, peacocks, hens, rabbits, chincillas, and canaries. Walked outside that place and saw a chinchilla coat stand. Poor things.
Walked by the tractors and cow chutes. Walked into an exhibition hall and saw JOHN DEERE! As well as a scary-looking brand called Akron. Then saw the cows/bulls. Came back out and went to the stadium for a bit, where some people were prancing around on horses. Also saw the Argentine calvary for a bit. This part was cool because I was in this arena, but surrounding me was huge buildings….aka the city.
After that, headed around and saw the horses. Then, went to the front, but walked by the cheese, meat, etc. stands. Got lots of free samples by walking through and looking ‘interested’. One nice girl asked us where we were from and gave us like 3 samples! It was sweet. At the very end, they were selling strudels with dulce de leche, and I got one. It was super yummy. Then, walked into an old building which was structured like old Buenos Aires. It had “little streets” inside it. Then, went into the building with the sheep, and I got a churro and Rebe got a coke.
After enjoying that, we tried to see a show, but failed at the time. So we went back, saw the milkcows, sheep, more bulls, and llamas! After that headed BACK to the building and got to see a panoramic video about Argentina. Happy to say that I had seen/experienced most of the things the video was showing.
After that, headed back to the arena, but didn’t see much. Oh, there was also a horse barn. Oh, and you know how cowboys/farmers dress up for rodeos? Well, there were gauchos here! And I followed two really authentic looking ones down the street and asked them for a picture. Sweet!
When we headed out, we subte’d down to Catedral, and switched to the Aline. It was my first time on the A line, which was much more old-fashioned. We got off and went into the Congressional Library. We had to lock up our bags, then we could enter. There really wasn’t much to see. I think I’m going to try to go back though and see if I can get any research for my thesis. All of that is coming together in these last two weeks…just wait!
After that, went back home, grabbed my computer, and went to the Roadhouse. Looked up lesson plan stuff and responded to emails. Went back home and then subte’d to my lesson. The lesson with Maricel about the first conditional went well, but took longer than expected. Sometimes she seems intermediate, but then tonight she seemed like a beginner and I’m thinking that next week I might review more basic stuff with her. On my way out, Monica gave me my instructions for my substitute classes tomorrow.
I made it home, helped Lu with her homework a bit, and made my lesson plans for tomorrow. Dinner was yummy milanesa with puree. Walked to the House and printed off my stuff for tomorrow. I think I might try to do that more often since I don’t have to pay for it. Hung out with the people upstairs for a bit while on the Internet on Rebe’s computer, then came home and going to sleep before the long day tomorrow!
Today began with a glass of chocolate milk and some strawberry toast. I then went down to the photocopy shop and got three classes worth of copies. I don’t have them all finished, but I’m doing better than I thought I would.
Came back to my apartment, put stuff up, and headed down to the subte station, where I met Rebeca. We went to La Rural today, which is basically the rodeo inside Buenos Aires! We got there around 10:30, with the original intent to hear a lecture about bovine genetics. However, there was no master program present, so we couldn’t find it. We ended up walking around and had a great time. Started with the chickens, peacocks, hens, rabbits, chincillas, and canaries. Walked outside that place and saw a chinchilla coat stand. Poor things.
Walked by the tractors and cow chutes. Walked into an exhibition hall and saw JOHN DEERE! As well as a scary-looking brand called Akron. Then saw the cows/bulls. Came back out and went to the stadium for a bit, where some people were prancing around on horses. Also saw the Argentine calvary for a bit. This part was cool because I was in this arena, but surrounding me was huge buildings….aka the city.
After that, headed around and saw the horses. Then, went to the front, but walked by the cheese, meat, etc. stands. Got lots of free samples by walking through and looking ‘interested’. One nice girl asked us where we were from and gave us like 3 samples! It was sweet. At the very end, they were selling strudels with dulce de leche, and I got one. It was super yummy. Then, walked into an old building which was structured like old Buenos Aires. It had “little streets” inside it. Then, went into the building with the sheep, and I got a churro and Rebe got a coke.
After enjoying that, we tried to see a show, but failed at the time. So we went back, saw the milkcows, sheep, more bulls, and llamas! After that headed BACK to the building and got to see a panoramic video about Argentina. Happy to say that I had seen/experienced most of the things the video was showing.
After that, headed back to the arena, but didn’t see much. Oh, there was also a horse barn. Oh, and you know how cowboys/farmers dress up for rodeos? Well, there were gauchos here! And I followed two really authentic looking ones down the street and asked them for a picture. Sweet!
When we headed out, we subte’d down to Catedral, and switched to the Aline. It was my first time on the A line, which was much more old-fashioned. We got off and went into the Congressional Library. We had to lock up our bags, then we could enter. There really wasn’t much to see. I think I’m going to try to go back though and see if I can get any research for my thesis. All of that is coming together in these last two weeks…just wait!
After that, went back home, grabbed my computer, and went to the Roadhouse. Looked up lesson plan stuff and responded to emails. Went back home and then subte’d to my lesson. The lesson with Maricel about the first conditional went well, but took longer than expected. Sometimes she seems intermediate, but then tonight she seemed like a beginner and I’m thinking that next week I might review more basic stuff with her. On my way out, Monica gave me my instructions for my substitute classes tomorrow.
I made it home, helped Lu with her homework a bit, and made my lesson plans for tomorrow. Dinner was yummy milanesa with puree. Walked to the House and printed off my stuff for tomorrow. I think I might try to do that more often since I don’t have to pay for it. Hung out with the people upstairs for a bit while on the Internet on Rebe’s computer, then came home and going to sleep before the long day tomorrow!
San Telmo
Sunday, 26th
I slept in, then made breakfast/lunch and got ready to go out. I met up with the girls on the subte and we went to the San Telmo market. Wasn’t really going to get anything, but I actually ended up getting most of my souvenirs, and I’m pretty sure it was cheaper than the Recoleta market. My surprise find was something HILARIOUS that will go in my bathroom….so you’ll have to come over to my house to see it because you have to see it. The best part was it’s funny, and it especially reminds me of BA for several reasons. I also got my mom and my brother gifts. I’m really excited about those because I think for once I scored something that John will appreciate. I think I came out of the market with a few other things as well, but I don’t remember completely. I’ll probably go back one of my weekends here, but this time to talk to the vendors. I’m really curious about how it’s structured and stuff.
There were of course, the customary people tango dancing and random people posing for pictures. I got some of the yummy awesome street nuts I love, and I almost got some freshly squeezed orange juice (we watched them squeezing it), but then I realized it would have pulp. After we finished, headed back on the subte. When I made it back to my apartment, I was really tired. I napped for a bit, then made myself work on some lesson plans. The goal is to finish all of them today/tonight so I can actually go out this week (birthday week/Rebe’s last week). I barely made it through my lesson plan with Maricel tomorrow night though – we’re doing the first and second conditional. Oh, what’s so different about this week is that I’m substituting for six classes. Two of them are my final ones with Julian before his prof returns. Four of them are for a prof who has the influenza. So I actually have 14 classes this week, ranging from one hour to an hour and a half, which is a far cry from the one a week I was doing a month ago. Crazy! So it’s going to be a very full week. Also had a false moment of hope when my internet connection said it was working. Turns out there is a non-protected network nearby, but it’s JUST out of my reach….too low to actually bring up pages. Oh well, no Internet has led to more reading, which has been wonderful.
After working on my lesson plans for a bit, I headed to church. Along the way I was pondering about my thesis, and I was struck by some random questions which will be interesting to follow up. I was scared I was going to forget them though, so I stopped in the middle of the street and proceeded to write them down in my notebook. That’s how genius happens, right? I didn’t notice any weird looks or anything though.
Mass was really wonderful, peaceful, and just what I wanted. We’re still not doing the “peace be with you”, except in our heads, but I’m thinking that in August they’ll reinstate it. The readings were all about being provided for food-wise. It’s interesting to hear passages about poverty and feeding people in the context of Buenos Aires. When I’m in my College Station bubble, I don’t pass homeless people on every block, and it’s more of an “idea”. Here, the idea of people not having food is a very real experience. I wish I had the guts to talk to the people living in doorways. I want to know how they ended up there, and why they don’t (or how they do) attempt to obtain shelter and some semblance of financial security, if you will. I just don’t understand it. Sometimes the people have physical disabilities, but even then I just wonder where their family is. For instance, there is always this one lady outside of church when we leave. She is in a wheelchair, and she just sits out there. As we crossed the street today, this lady ran in front of us. Think of the idea of a crazy witch. I promise whatever crazy idea you have in your mind is not far-fetched. She had crazy curly, dirty, knotted hair that went in every direction and she kind of crotched over as she half-ran, half-limped across the street, all the while talking to herself. I really don’t understand, although I suppose if you are mentally handicapped, as she appeared to be, then maybe you don’t notice it. But again, I just watch and don’t do anything about it, and then have the privilege to write about it, so yea.
After mass, walked home, picked up a coke on the way, and am now preparing to do some hardcore lesson planning. Gotta earn those pesos ;)
I slept in, then made breakfast/lunch and got ready to go out. I met up with the girls on the subte and we went to the San Telmo market. Wasn’t really going to get anything, but I actually ended up getting most of my souvenirs, and I’m pretty sure it was cheaper than the Recoleta market. My surprise find was something HILARIOUS that will go in my bathroom….so you’ll have to come over to my house to see it because you have to see it. The best part was it’s funny, and it especially reminds me of BA for several reasons. I also got my mom and my brother gifts. I’m really excited about those because I think for once I scored something that John will appreciate. I think I came out of the market with a few other things as well, but I don’t remember completely. I’ll probably go back one of my weekends here, but this time to talk to the vendors. I’m really curious about how it’s structured and stuff.
There were of course, the customary people tango dancing and random people posing for pictures. I got some of the yummy awesome street nuts I love, and I almost got some freshly squeezed orange juice (we watched them squeezing it), but then I realized it would have pulp. After we finished, headed back on the subte. When I made it back to my apartment, I was really tired. I napped for a bit, then made myself work on some lesson plans. The goal is to finish all of them today/tonight so I can actually go out this week (birthday week/Rebe’s last week). I barely made it through my lesson plan with Maricel tomorrow night though – we’re doing the first and second conditional. Oh, what’s so different about this week is that I’m substituting for six classes. Two of them are my final ones with Julian before his prof returns. Four of them are for a prof who has the influenza. So I actually have 14 classes this week, ranging from one hour to an hour and a half, which is a far cry from the one a week I was doing a month ago. Crazy! So it’s going to be a very full week. Also had a false moment of hope when my internet connection said it was working. Turns out there is a non-protected network nearby, but it’s JUST out of my reach….too low to actually bring up pages. Oh well, no Internet has led to more reading, which has been wonderful.
After working on my lesson plans for a bit, I headed to church. Along the way I was pondering about my thesis, and I was struck by some random questions which will be interesting to follow up. I was scared I was going to forget them though, so I stopped in the middle of the street and proceeded to write them down in my notebook. That’s how genius happens, right? I didn’t notice any weird looks or anything though.
Mass was really wonderful, peaceful, and just what I wanted. We’re still not doing the “peace be with you”, except in our heads, but I’m thinking that in August they’ll reinstate it. The readings were all about being provided for food-wise. It’s interesting to hear passages about poverty and feeding people in the context of Buenos Aires. When I’m in my College Station bubble, I don’t pass homeless people on every block, and it’s more of an “idea”. Here, the idea of people not having food is a very real experience. I wish I had the guts to talk to the people living in doorways. I want to know how they ended up there, and why they don’t (or how they do) attempt to obtain shelter and some semblance of financial security, if you will. I just don’t understand it. Sometimes the people have physical disabilities, but even then I just wonder where their family is. For instance, there is always this one lady outside of church when we leave. She is in a wheelchair, and she just sits out there. As we crossed the street today, this lady ran in front of us. Think of the idea of a crazy witch. I promise whatever crazy idea you have in your mind is not far-fetched. She had crazy curly, dirty, knotted hair that went in every direction and she kind of crotched over as she half-ran, half-limped across the street, all the while talking to herself. I really don’t understand, although I suppose if you are mentally handicapped, as she appeared to be, then maybe you don’t notice it. But again, I just watch and don’t do anything about it, and then have the privilege to write about it, so yea.
After mass, walked home, picked up a coke on the way, and am now preparing to do some hardcore lesson planning. Gotta earn those pesos ;)
Hair Dying!!
Saturday, 25th
-headed home
-ate breakfast, then slept a bit more
-used the internet….worked on lesson plans…talked to Sarah moving into our house!
-headed to Roadhouse – going to dye my hair!
-We went to the store and pondered for a while, had fun in the hair aisle discussing options. Selected the box because the girl had green eyes!
-Rebeca’s first time dying my hair, lots of helpful people.
-My face was turning black from the dye! Headed home…..now I’ve walked through the streets of BA with my hair in a big black bun of hairdye. Yes. Maria Laura looked freaked out, and I must admit when I first saw it before it dried, I was a bit nervous. But I absolutely love it, and it is darker, but my older color still shines through like highlights. A good pre-birthday color to finish up my time in Buenos Aires. Ate some frozen diet food for dinner, but it was good.
-Headed back to the House, where the other girls were in bed! But they got ready, properly oogled over my new do, and we headed to a place called “Spot”, which one of the girls at the house recommended for being really chill. And by really chill, no one was really there, but everyone was nice and we had a fun chill time. Around 2:30 it started to get more people. Oh, I also got a taste of the H1N1 (ask me in person). I think I made it to bed around 4 a.m.
-headed home
-ate breakfast, then slept a bit more
-used the internet….worked on lesson plans…talked to Sarah moving into our house!
-headed to Roadhouse – going to dye my hair!
-We went to the store and pondered for a while, had fun in the hair aisle discussing options. Selected the box because the girl had green eyes!
-Rebeca’s first time dying my hair, lots of helpful people.
-My face was turning black from the dye! Headed home…..now I’ve walked through the streets of BA with my hair in a big black bun of hairdye. Yes. Maria Laura looked freaked out, and I must admit when I first saw it before it dried, I was a bit nervous. But I absolutely love it, and it is darker, but my older color still shines through like highlights. A good pre-birthday color to finish up my time in Buenos Aires. Ate some frozen diet food for dinner, but it was good.
-Headed back to the House, where the other girls were in bed! But they got ready, properly oogled over my new do, and we headed to a place called “Spot”, which one of the girls at the house recommended for being really chill. And by really chill, no one was really there, but everyone was nice and we had a fun chill time. Around 2:30 it started to get more people. Oh, I also got a taste of the H1N1 (ask me in person). I think I made it to bed around 4 a.m.
Salsa
Friday, 7/24
I crawled out of bed for my morning class after hitting the snooze button. Nasty habit. I made my way to the kitchen and made my toast. I was SUPER EXCITED about using my strawberry jam. Dang it, I couldn’t open it. Oh well, it just meant two pieces of dulce de leche toast. I also made chocolate milk because it just sounded good!
I quickly got dressed, rearranged my braids, which look super ghetto now, and headed out. Into the subte, listening to a mix Morgan Meador made for me, and I made it to Betty’s house just a few minutes late. I sipped coffee as she described the Odyssey to me. She went to the Opera last night with her husband and saw The Return of Ulysses. That was fun, and then she talked about the business books she’s reading. We then reviewed superlatives and comparative adjectives. It got long though, and she was really confused. She’s seen it all before, but she had forgotten a lot. I caught her checking her watch a few times. But we got through it, and then I headed out.
I decided to walk home because the idea of a crowded subte didn’t sound appealing. On my way back, I passed a notebook store. I’ve been meaning, for like 10 weeks, to buy a notebook to put my “memories” in. I always pass this one store right by my house, but all the notebooks are tacky. This one looked more authentic, but when he started pulling out the options it was all standard. However, we were chatting, and so I went with a blue notebook with white binding that will remind me of the Argentina colors. Also, the ruled paper is what Lulu uses for school, so I’ve seen it a lot. Now, my trash becomes treasure and the ordinary becomes art.
At home, I did my Bible reading/Theology of the Body book reading (love it!) and made a sandwich. After about 10 minutes of effort, I managed to open the strawberry jar. Success! Oh, and I had some Pringles-esque chips. Then took a much-needed nap.
Upon awakening (or rather, since I didn’t fall asleep, just getting up), I changed into my green, going to Quilmes, jacket, and headed out. The subte was calm and I got a train ticket without incident. This time I had exact change. In the train, I was sitting behind this mom and her two little daughters. They were cute, but when I made my usual funny faces at them, their mom made them turn around. Not sure if she thought they were bothering me or not, but I still felt like a bit of a creeper. I also jotted down in my celeste book the various stops, and in that way I was prepared when we reached Quilmes.
Upon arriving at work, I actually had two students waiting for me. One of the students I hadn’t met yet because he kept skipping class (note: they’re both in their 30s). The Pablo who is always at class is kind of a kidder and likes to joke around. This guy was the opposite, and he quickly let me know that he did not want to focus on anything that could not help him with his business emails. Well, I was a little miffed because it was an affront to my teaching abilities, but I told him I would structure the rest of the classes around that. I was told to structure this module around media input, but he said he didn’t think that would help him. Since I get paid either way, I figure I’ll do what they’re legitimately interested in. Plus, there is the fact that I am 20 and they are like 30-something, and the age difference does show, even though I try not to let it.
Thankfully, I had planned complaint letters for this lesson, so homeboy was pleased. He at first was saying that the phrases I were presenting were too basic for him, so I just adapted and said that we would “formalize” them right then. I was satisfied with how that went. The second class, only one guy came. This was supposed to be the hour and a half class, but we finished with the complaint letter stuff in 30 minutes. He has attended all the classes as well, but unlike homeboy and more like Pablo, he’s chill. He didn’t follow up on anything I presented, so we sped through the lesson. We did a couple of role plays with business calls, and then we were done. Since we still had about 45 minutes, I apologized for finishing early but explained that I was expecting two students. We spent the rest of the time talking about random stuff, which he said he was fine with. He just likes to talk in English. We talked about writing, reading, some pieces he has written, he just saw the Harry Potter movie (jealous face), and how he was going to celebrate his birthday tonight. While I enjoy talking, I was really tired and quite excited when the time ran out.
I headed to the train station, where I had to wait for about 15 minutes because I just missed the train that leaves at the hour. Monica, my boss for my one-on-one students, called during that time and reminded me to not tell my newest student that I’m leaving in a month. She must’ve been pretty nervous about losing the girl if she called to tell me. I also asked her for the address because I had forgotten the card I wrote it down on, but she didn’t have it. Thankfully, I remembered the building number and the girls name, but nothing more. Oops. However, Monica assured me I would be able to figure it out.
On the train ride home, I attempted to read Agatha Christie but was rereading a lot due to tiredness. Which is quite unacceptable because I slept a lot last night. But the public transportation thing wears me out – it requires me to constantly be aware, etc. I was also sitting next to a sketch-o looking man. And I ate my granola bar.
Then I got on the subte and made it to the correct stop. Luckily, the building was near Lenguas Vivas, so I had already scoped out the area! However, the meeting was at 6, and it was already 6 when I got off the subte. Oops. I quickly walked, thankfully found the building and made it in at 6:15.
This is a HUGE circular building – 29 stories – in Buenos Aires. When it was created about 30 years ago, it was the talk of the town for its modernism. Nowadays it’s just another building. Flustered by my tardiness, I attempted to explain to the guards at the front desk who I was, why I was here, etc. The entrance reminded me of the memories I have from my mom and dad’s workplace in Houston back in the day. The guard asked for my passport, which I don’t carry with me, but she accepted my driver’s license. She inputted some stuff, and then I entered through the …I forget the word – that thing you walk through and it spins one of the bars. Anyways, I headed up to the 29th floor, hoping that Argentine time still applied.
I arrived and the glass door was locked. I rung the bell, and Patricia let me in and asked me to wait 5 minutes while she finished some stuff. Good, good, glad she was running late too. So I went to the bathroom and then headed to her office. We chatted, just doing the needs assessment. She was able to understand me without problem, but her pronunciation and sentence structures could use some work. I was excited because she just wanted to focus on conversation. Much more fun and easier than the other classes. She also has an AMAZING view of the river from her office, and since it’s on the 29th floor, she said that on clear days she can see Colonia, Uruguay. Cool!
I headed out and subte’d home. Haven’t done much else since except read. I think I’m going to nap, eat, then head out to salsa dance!
Salsa was so much fun! At first it seemed like it might be a little lame, I wasn't getting asked to dance, but from about 3 until 5 I rarely was off the dance floor. And even though I'm not that great of a dancer, everyone was really nice AND I got to speak in Spanish. When we got back I just crashed at the Roadhouse.
I crawled out of bed for my morning class after hitting the snooze button. Nasty habit. I made my way to the kitchen and made my toast. I was SUPER EXCITED about using my strawberry jam. Dang it, I couldn’t open it. Oh well, it just meant two pieces of dulce de leche toast. I also made chocolate milk because it just sounded good!
I quickly got dressed, rearranged my braids, which look super ghetto now, and headed out. Into the subte, listening to a mix Morgan Meador made for me, and I made it to Betty’s house just a few minutes late. I sipped coffee as she described the Odyssey to me. She went to the Opera last night with her husband and saw The Return of Ulysses. That was fun, and then she talked about the business books she’s reading. We then reviewed superlatives and comparative adjectives. It got long though, and she was really confused. She’s seen it all before, but she had forgotten a lot. I caught her checking her watch a few times. But we got through it, and then I headed out.
I decided to walk home because the idea of a crowded subte didn’t sound appealing. On my way back, I passed a notebook store. I’ve been meaning, for like 10 weeks, to buy a notebook to put my “memories” in. I always pass this one store right by my house, but all the notebooks are tacky. This one looked more authentic, but when he started pulling out the options it was all standard. However, we were chatting, and so I went with a blue notebook with white binding that will remind me of the Argentina colors. Also, the ruled paper is what Lulu uses for school, so I’ve seen it a lot. Now, my trash becomes treasure and the ordinary becomes art.
At home, I did my Bible reading/Theology of the Body book reading (love it!) and made a sandwich. After about 10 minutes of effort, I managed to open the strawberry jar. Success! Oh, and I had some Pringles-esque chips. Then took a much-needed nap.
Upon awakening (or rather, since I didn’t fall asleep, just getting up), I changed into my green, going to Quilmes, jacket, and headed out. The subte was calm and I got a train ticket without incident. This time I had exact change. In the train, I was sitting behind this mom and her two little daughters. They were cute, but when I made my usual funny faces at them, their mom made them turn around. Not sure if she thought they were bothering me or not, but I still felt like a bit of a creeper. I also jotted down in my celeste book the various stops, and in that way I was prepared when we reached Quilmes.
Upon arriving at work, I actually had two students waiting for me. One of the students I hadn’t met yet because he kept skipping class (note: they’re both in their 30s). The Pablo who is always at class is kind of a kidder and likes to joke around. This guy was the opposite, and he quickly let me know that he did not want to focus on anything that could not help him with his business emails. Well, I was a little miffed because it was an affront to my teaching abilities, but I told him I would structure the rest of the classes around that. I was told to structure this module around media input, but he said he didn’t think that would help him. Since I get paid either way, I figure I’ll do what they’re legitimately interested in. Plus, there is the fact that I am 20 and they are like 30-something, and the age difference does show, even though I try not to let it.
Thankfully, I had planned complaint letters for this lesson, so homeboy was pleased. He at first was saying that the phrases I were presenting were too basic for him, so I just adapted and said that we would “formalize” them right then. I was satisfied with how that went. The second class, only one guy came. This was supposed to be the hour and a half class, but we finished with the complaint letter stuff in 30 minutes. He has attended all the classes as well, but unlike homeboy and more like Pablo, he’s chill. He didn’t follow up on anything I presented, so we sped through the lesson. We did a couple of role plays with business calls, and then we were done. Since we still had about 45 minutes, I apologized for finishing early but explained that I was expecting two students. We spent the rest of the time talking about random stuff, which he said he was fine with. He just likes to talk in English. We talked about writing, reading, some pieces he has written, he just saw the Harry Potter movie (jealous face), and how he was going to celebrate his birthday tonight. While I enjoy talking, I was really tired and quite excited when the time ran out.
I headed to the train station, where I had to wait for about 15 minutes because I just missed the train that leaves at the hour. Monica, my boss for my one-on-one students, called during that time and reminded me to not tell my newest student that I’m leaving in a month. She must’ve been pretty nervous about losing the girl if she called to tell me. I also asked her for the address because I had forgotten the card I wrote it down on, but she didn’t have it. Thankfully, I remembered the building number and the girls name, but nothing more. Oops. However, Monica assured me I would be able to figure it out.
On the train ride home, I attempted to read Agatha Christie but was rereading a lot due to tiredness. Which is quite unacceptable because I slept a lot last night. But the public transportation thing wears me out – it requires me to constantly be aware, etc. I was also sitting next to a sketch-o looking man. And I ate my granola bar.
Then I got on the subte and made it to the correct stop. Luckily, the building was near Lenguas Vivas, so I had already scoped out the area! However, the meeting was at 6, and it was already 6 when I got off the subte. Oops. I quickly walked, thankfully found the building and made it in at 6:15.
This is a HUGE circular building – 29 stories – in Buenos Aires. When it was created about 30 years ago, it was the talk of the town for its modernism. Nowadays it’s just another building. Flustered by my tardiness, I attempted to explain to the guards at the front desk who I was, why I was here, etc. The entrance reminded me of the memories I have from my mom and dad’s workplace in Houston back in the day. The guard asked for my passport, which I don’t carry with me, but she accepted my driver’s license. She inputted some stuff, and then I entered through the …I forget the word – that thing you walk through and it spins one of the bars. Anyways, I headed up to the 29th floor, hoping that Argentine time still applied.
I arrived and the glass door was locked. I rung the bell, and Patricia let me in and asked me to wait 5 minutes while she finished some stuff. Good, good, glad she was running late too. So I went to the bathroom and then headed to her office. We chatted, just doing the needs assessment. She was able to understand me without problem, but her pronunciation and sentence structures could use some work. I was excited because she just wanted to focus on conversation. Much more fun and easier than the other classes. She also has an AMAZING view of the river from her office, and since it’s on the 29th floor, she said that on clear days she can see Colonia, Uruguay. Cool!
I headed out and subte’d home. Haven’t done much else since except read. I think I’m going to nap, eat, then head out to salsa dance!
Salsa was so much fun! At first it seemed like it might be a little lame, I wasn't getting asked to dance, but from about 3 until 5 I rarely was off the dance floor. And even though I'm not that great of a dancer, everyone was really nice AND I got to speak in Spanish. When we got back I just crashed at the Roadhouse.
It's Cold!!
Thursday, 7/23
This morning started off really blah. I got out of bed and made some toast. I then did my morning reading and braided my hair with the hope that it will be crimpy tomorrow. After that, I headed downtown to try to go to the Lenguas Vivas. This is an institute, which includes a college and a younger people school, but it’s supposed to have a really great public library. I was hoping to get some data for my thesis, which I feel like I’m failing miserably at. Granted, the odds are not in my favor, but I seriously have to get SOMETHING.
Well, I successfully navigated the switching subtes…..after 2 weeks of daily subte transport, I’m quite comfortable with all of the lines. I also was playing my Pirates of the Caribbean soundtrack while travelling, which made the trip much more entertaining as I felt like I was in a movie. But then I messed up and got off a stop early. So instead of making it one block away from the place, I ended up at some random stop. When I realized my mistake, I thought about waiting for the next train, but then I just decided to walk. Well, I was completely disoriented when I got outside, and once I get into the street I prefer to keep walking and figure it out through trial and error rather than pulling out my map, so I just walked and looked for a familiar street. Pues, I ended up walking backwards and ended up back at the subte stop where I could’ve gotten off if I hadn’t switched stations. So yea. Fail on trying to make things easier. At this point I just decided to walk, and I was on the biggest street in BA so I thought it would be good to see the street as well.
The walk went by quickly, although it was cold (several Argentines have told me that this is the coldest it has ever been in BA), and then I happened upon the school! I almost walked right past it because I thought it was further, but the interesting color stopped me. I made it inside the gate and the door and then encountered a guard. She kindly informed me that nothing was open to the public until August 3rd. Cool. That’s when the schools start too. It simply means I will have to plan my time to a tee for those last two weeks. I did have one teacher email me back, from the Lincoln school too, which is a really presitigious American-modeled school in Buenos Aires. So I think interviewing her will provide an interesting perspective…..i’ll be curious to see if it mirrors more of the research I will obtain from the States.
After that, I walked back to the subte station I was SUPPOSED to get off at, and I successfully made it back home. Once back, I went by the ATM and pulled out some moolah which will hopefully last me until I depart. Since I don’t get paid by either company I work for until right before I leave, I can’t rely on that. Although, I averaged it out and excluding my trips, the money I make should be just enough to cover my living expenses for the last 6 weeks, which is duh, not a lot, but still pretty cool.
After that, I stopped by the Road Office and got information about a tour I was going on later. They sent an email, but Maria Laura’s computer has basically completely crashed. No idea why, but it probably doesn’t help that it uses a ghetto version of Word.
After obtaining the address, I went to Disco to get some foooood. I picked up some new food to try different brands, some more dulce de leche cream b/c surprise surprise I have just devoured that stuff, some strawberry jam, because we ran out and Maria Laura hasn’t gotten any more. I was going to wait for her to get it b/c it’s part of breakfast, but this way I can use it on sandwiches for lunch as well. I also got crackers and a different brand of alfajores. Oh, and pudding – chocolate and dulce de leche….yummmm. And bread for sandwiches for lunch!
All in all, I had about 15 items in my little canasta. I got in line, which sucks. Even though it was the middle of the day, there weren’t too many people, but there were only two lines open. And each transaction takes a long time for some reason. Halfway through my line, I noticed that I was in the line for 10 items. I momentarily considered switching, but then I thought the lady in front of me had more too, so I decided to just go through with it. I didn’t want to go to the end of another line. No thanks. A sweet old lady behind me asked me the date, which I told her Thursday, because there was an ad for certain discounts on certain days. We briefly talked about the freezing weather, but the conversation quickly died.
I finally made it to check out, and homeboy couldn’t have been more than 18, looks at me and says something I didn’t catch. I had a feeling it had to do with my number of items, so I attempted to put on my sweetest gringa face, and I was like, no entiendo? And he proceeds to count my items and says I can only have 10. Oh, it was mildly frustrating because it seriously wouldn’t have taken much to swipe those extra five items. So there went my coke, my 3 bags of M&Ms, and something else I don’t remember. I think I had another box of crackers because I munch on those things like crazy. As I handed him my credit card, I didn’t even have to worry about giving myself away this time. See, my lovely credit card has an American flag and the bald eagle on it….let’s make no mistake of where I’m from. Also, in these stores, I bag my own groceries. And I HAVE to show another form of i.d. with my credit card (I use my driver’s license)….it’s the law.
I made it home without incident, where Maria Laura kindly asked me to pick up my room. Fair enough, as I had washed some clothes in the sink earlier and they were laid out. I still don’t think she knows I do that. So I tidied things up, then heated up some of the soup from last night and had a yummy lunch.
After that, I headed to the tour of the day – Manzana de Las Luces. The Block of Enlightenment (it’s not literal, but that’s the intended meaning). I was about 15 minutes late, but guess what……still got there 10 minutes before the tour started. Even though she was talking in English, I missed a lot. What I did get was that this is the oldest building in Buenos Aires. Before the Casa Rosada, it housed the governmental affairs in a room below ground level, which we got to go into. It also houses some of the excavated tunnels used by the Jesuits back in the day. There are two theories as to the tunnels, which once connected churches throughout the city. Either they were used as a hidden defense, or they were used to smuggle because lots of empty bottles, etc. were found there. Either way, to get to them, you had to go down a rope about 6 meters. They’re all caved in now, but a guy excavated part of a couple. Buenos Aires currently doesn’t have the funds to excavate more. Just being down there made me feel like a pirate though; it was cool.
After that, I went next-door to the shop for a minute and checked out the antique stuff. Nothing super caught my attention though. I was supposed to meet Rebe downtown at 3:30, but I still had some time to kill. So I popped into the National Cathedral and checked it out. I had gone in with John, but I didn’t remember much, so I went back in. The Church is very dignified. There are also two guards there in front of one of the side chapels, where one of the exPresidents is. I walked to the other side, and knelt down to pray while contemplating one of the Jesus statues. What I really liked about it was that this Jesus was on the cross and really dirty. I always hear the motto to be like Christ, but sometimes I think I forget that He ended up dirty, bloody, and painfully, on a cross. Internally, he was completely clean, but from this cross, if I hadn’t known better, I would’ve just passed by Him thinking He was another beggar. I need to take better notice of things.
After that, I headed to the Plaza, where I met up with Rebe. We were there at 3:30 to see the Mothers of the Desaparecidos march. Back during the dictator time in Argentina history, the military deposed of certain peoples, and these mothers want retribution for their son’s bodies…the disappeared. They march every Thursday at 3:30, peacefully reminding the Casa Rosada that the government has yet to account for the “disappearance” of their sons.
What I interestingly learned upon arriving was that there are about three groups of the mothers. As I was looking, this older man approached myself and Rebe and began to randomly explain to us that the group of mothers in the van (yes, they have a madres de los desaparecidos van) were the mothers to watch. The other ones had accepted a payment from the government. The van mothers had not. When I asked another lady about the two separate groups who were walking (the mothers in the van never got out), all I got in response was that they had split due to political differences. They both still walked around the mini obelisk, just in two separate groups. And then there was the van.
We left before they did, but it was really cold. We were going to find this famous white bridge….something about the oldest one in BA, but we gave up. So subte’d back, had a great laugh right when we made it back due to Rebe’s shell-stepping-on story, and then I came back home. I packed up my stuff and headed next door to this restaurant, where I asked the waiter if they indeed had wifi.
Now, in Spanish, you pronounce the “I” as “e”, like in “feet”. Apply that concept to how you say “wifi”. Yes, it sounds a little ridiculous, but it was how I have learned to say it. Well, I ask this guy, and he has no idea what I’m saying. K, I motioned to my computer, and he proceeds to say oh, wifi, in the English pronunciation. Feeling a little foolish, I nod, and he confirms that they have it. Thanks to my internet woes, I have some computer vocabulary, and I was able to ask him if there was a place for me to plug in my computer. He motions to the side or upstairs. Thinking that upstairs is safer, I head up and make my way to a booth. The waiter had to give me a password, and then I gloriously had fast Internet on MY computer!!
The waiter came by, and I ordered café con leche y 3 medialunas. They weren’t amazing, but for 9 pesos (less than 3 dollars), I got 2 hours of GOOD internet, during which I talked to my mom, and some snacks. Sweet. I also sent out some desperate emails to teachers, etc. I then sent some emails to some Aggies I looked up using the Aggie network system. If I can’t have one of those cool “oh I see you have an Aggie ring” experiences, I’ll create my own. Well, 3 emails immediately bounced (people need to update their profiles) but others didn’t, so fingers crossed.
I paid my bill and got ready to go to my class, when Monica (my boss) called and said Julian had to cancel because something happened with his foot and he was at the doctors. I was more than ok with this, and I stayed on the internet a little longer (talked to Allyson) before reluctantly heading back. But now that I know, I’m going to be going there a lot. And all the waiters (oddly all male-staffed) are really nice.
At home I read some more. I’ve been in a ready mood. Maria Laura went to a concert one of her friends was putting on, and she left me some chicken. I ate that, plus heated up the rest of the awesome soup I really like. And made a warm cup of coffee, although I burned my tongue. Then I read some more.
We were going to go salsa dancing tonight, but it turns out they give lessons tonight and the dancing freely night is tomorrow. So postponed until tomorrow. Which, since I have class at 8:30 in the morning, I’m ok with going to bed early. I know I’m not taking advantage of the stay out all night part of Buenos Aires (I can count my “went out” nights on my hand), but at the same time, that’s not me. Every once in a while, yes, it’s fun, but I seriously can’t handle going out like that all the time. I commend those who can, kudos if it’s for you, but it wears me out and the effects last several days as I recover from lack of sleep. So yea, I was worried that I’m not taking advantage of all of BA, and maybe I’m not, but I’m ok with that.
This morning started off really blah. I got out of bed and made some toast. I then did my morning reading and braided my hair with the hope that it will be crimpy tomorrow. After that, I headed downtown to try to go to the Lenguas Vivas. This is an institute, which includes a college and a younger people school, but it’s supposed to have a really great public library. I was hoping to get some data for my thesis, which I feel like I’m failing miserably at. Granted, the odds are not in my favor, but I seriously have to get SOMETHING.
Well, I successfully navigated the switching subtes…..after 2 weeks of daily subte transport, I’m quite comfortable with all of the lines. I also was playing my Pirates of the Caribbean soundtrack while travelling, which made the trip much more entertaining as I felt like I was in a movie. But then I messed up and got off a stop early. So instead of making it one block away from the place, I ended up at some random stop. When I realized my mistake, I thought about waiting for the next train, but then I just decided to walk. Well, I was completely disoriented when I got outside, and once I get into the street I prefer to keep walking and figure it out through trial and error rather than pulling out my map, so I just walked and looked for a familiar street. Pues, I ended up walking backwards and ended up back at the subte stop where I could’ve gotten off if I hadn’t switched stations. So yea. Fail on trying to make things easier. At this point I just decided to walk, and I was on the biggest street in BA so I thought it would be good to see the street as well.
The walk went by quickly, although it was cold (several Argentines have told me that this is the coldest it has ever been in BA), and then I happened upon the school! I almost walked right past it because I thought it was further, but the interesting color stopped me. I made it inside the gate and the door and then encountered a guard. She kindly informed me that nothing was open to the public until August 3rd. Cool. That’s when the schools start too. It simply means I will have to plan my time to a tee for those last two weeks. I did have one teacher email me back, from the Lincoln school too, which is a really presitigious American-modeled school in Buenos Aires. So I think interviewing her will provide an interesting perspective…..i’ll be curious to see if it mirrors more of the research I will obtain from the States.
After that, I walked back to the subte station I was SUPPOSED to get off at, and I successfully made it back home. Once back, I went by the ATM and pulled out some moolah which will hopefully last me until I depart. Since I don’t get paid by either company I work for until right before I leave, I can’t rely on that. Although, I averaged it out and excluding my trips, the money I make should be just enough to cover my living expenses for the last 6 weeks, which is duh, not a lot, but still pretty cool.
After that, I stopped by the Road Office and got information about a tour I was going on later. They sent an email, but Maria Laura’s computer has basically completely crashed. No idea why, but it probably doesn’t help that it uses a ghetto version of Word.
After obtaining the address, I went to Disco to get some foooood. I picked up some new food to try different brands, some more dulce de leche cream b/c surprise surprise I have just devoured that stuff, some strawberry jam, because we ran out and Maria Laura hasn’t gotten any more. I was going to wait for her to get it b/c it’s part of breakfast, but this way I can use it on sandwiches for lunch as well. I also got crackers and a different brand of alfajores. Oh, and pudding – chocolate and dulce de leche….yummmm. And bread for sandwiches for lunch!
All in all, I had about 15 items in my little canasta. I got in line, which sucks. Even though it was the middle of the day, there weren’t too many people, but there were only two lines open. And each transaction takes a long time for some reason. Halfway through my line, I noticed that I was in the line for 10 items. I momentarily considered switching, but then I thought the lady in front of me had more too, so I decided to just go through with it. I didn’t want to go to the end of another line. No thanks. A sweet old lady behind me asked me the date, which I told her Thursday, because there was an ad for certain discounts on certain days. We briefly talked about the freezing weather, but the conversation quickly died.
I finally made it to check out, and homeboy couldn’t have been more than 18, looks at me and says something I didn’t catch. I had a feeling it had to do with my number of items, so I attempted to put on my sweetest gringa face, and I was like, no entiendo? And he proceeds to count my items and says I can only have 10. Oh, it was mildly frustrating because it seriously wouldn’t have taken much to swipe those extra five items. So there went my coke, my 3 bags of M&Ms, and something else I don’t remember. I think I had another box of crackers because I munch on those things like crazy. As I handed him my credit card, I didn’t even have to worry about giving myself away this time. See, my lovely credit card has an American flag and the bald eagle on it….let’s make no mistake of where I’m from. Also, in these stores, I bag my own groceries. And I HAVE to show another form of i.d. with my credit card (I use my driver’s license)….it’s the law.
I made it home without incident, where Maria Laura kindly asked me to pick up my room. Fair enough, as I had washed some clothes in the sink earlier and they were laid out. I still don’t think she knows I do that. So I tidied things up, then heated up some of the soup from last night and had a yummy lunch.
After that, I headed to the tour of the day – Manzana de Las Luces. The Block of Enlightenment (it’s not literal, but that’s the intended meaning). I was about 15 minutes late, but guess what……still got there 10 minutes before the tour started. Even though she was talking in English, I missed a lot. What I did get was that this is the oldest building in Buenos Aires. Before the Casa Rosada, it housed the governmental affairs in a room below ground level, which we got to go into. It also houses some of the excavated tunnels used by the Jesuits back in the day. There are two theories as to the tunnels, which once connected churches throughout the city. Either they were used as a hidden defense, or they were used to smuggle because lots of empty bottles, etc. were found there. Either way, to get to them, you had to go down a rope about 6 meters. They’re all caved in now, but a guy excavated part of a couple. Buenos Aires currently doesn’t have the funds to excavate more. Just being down there made me feel like a pirate though; it was cool.
After that, I went next-door to the shop for a minute and checked out the antique stuff. Nothing super caught my attention though. I was supposed to meet Rebe downtown at 3:30, but I still had some time to kill. So I popped into the National Cathedral and checked it out. I had gone in with John, but I didn’t remember much, so I went back in. The Church is very dignified. There are also two guards there in front of one of the side chapels, where one of the exPresidents is. I walked to the other side, and knelt down to pray while contemplating one of the Jesus statues. What I really liked about it was that this Jesus was on the cross and really dirty. I always hear the motto to be like Christ, but sometimes I think I forget that He ended up dirty, bloody, and painfully, on a cross. Internally, he was completely clean, but from this cross, if I hadn’t known better, I would’ve just passed by Him thinking He was another beggar. I need to take better notice of things.
After that, I headed to the Plaza, where I met up with Rebe. We were there at 3:30 to see the Mothers of the Desaparecidos march. Back during the dictator time in Argentina history, the military deposed of certain peoples, and these mothers want retribution for their son’s bodies…the disappeared. They march every Thursday at 3:30, peacefully reminding the Casa Rosada that the government has yet to account for the “disappearance” of their sons.
What I interestingly learned upon arriving was that there are about three groups of the mothers. As I was looking, this older man approached myself and Rebe and began to randomly explain to us that the group of mothers in the van (yes, they have a madres de los desaparecidos van) were the mothers to watch. The other ones had accepted a payment from the government. The van mothers had not. When I asked another lady about the two separate groups who were walking (the mothers in the van never got out), all I got in response was that they had split due to political differences. They both still walked around the mini obelisk, just in two separate groups. And then there was the van.
We left before they did, but it was really cold. We were going to find this famous white bridge….something about the oldest one in BA, but we gave up. So subte’d back, had a great laugh right when we made it back due to Rebe’s shell-stepping-on story, and then I came back home. I packed up my stuff and headed next door to this restaurant, where I asked the waiter if they indeed had wifi.
Now, in Spanish, you pronounce the “I” as “e”, like in “feet”. Apply that concept to how you say “wifi”. Yes, it sounds a little ridiculous, but it was how I have learned to say it. Well, I ask this guy, and he has no idea what I’m saying. K, I motioned to my computer, and he proceeds to say oh, wifi, in the English pronunciation. Feeling a little foolish, I nod, and he confirms that they have it. Thanks to my internet woes, I have some computer vocabulary, and I was able to ask him if there was a place for me to plug in my computer. He motions to the side or upstairs. Thinking that upstairs is safer, I head up and make my way to a booth. The waiter had to give me a password, and then I gloriously had fast Internet on MY computer!!
The waiter came by, and I ordered café con leche y 3 medialunas. They weren’t amazing, but for 9 pesos (less than 3 dollars), I got 2 hours of GOOD internet, during which I talked to my mom, and some snacks. Sweet. I also sent out some desperate emails to teachers, etc. I then sent some emails to some Aggies I looked up using the Aggie network system. If I can’t have one of those cool “oh I see you have an Aggie ring” experiences, I’ll create my own. Well, 3 emails immediately bounced (people need to update their profiles) but others didn’t, so fingers crossed.
I paid my bill and got ready to go to my class, when Monica (my boss) called and said Julian had to cancel because something happened with his foot and he was at the doctors. I was more than ok with this, and I stayed on the internet a little longer (talked to Allyson) before reluctantly heading back. But now that I know, I’m going to be going there a lot. And all the waiters (oddly all male-staffed) are really nice.
At home I read some more. I’ve been in a ready mood. Maria Laura went to a concert one of her friends was putting on, and she left me some chicken. I ate that, plus heated up the rest of the awesome soup I really like. And made a warm cup of coffee, although I burned my tongue. Then I read some more.
We were going to go salsa dancing tonight, but it turns out they give lessons tonight and the dancing freely night is tomorrow. So postponed until tomorrow. Which, since I have class at 8:30 in the morning, I’m ok with going to bed early. I know I’m not taking advantage of the stay out all night part of Buenos Aires (I can count my “went out” nights on my hand), but at the same time, that’s not me. Every once in a while, yes, it’s fun, but I seriously can’t handle going out like that all the time. I commend those who can, kudos if it’s for you, but it wears me out and the effects last several days as I recover from lack of sleep. So yea, I was worried that I’m not taking advantage of all of BA, and maybe I’m not, but I’m ok with that.
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