Day Twenty-Four

Back to the old grind.
Today continued as usual: run, shower, Starbucks, school. At El Sol, my teachers did not change so I still have JuanCarlos for grammar and Diana for conversation. We started learning the passive voice today and I could not help but laugh because my AP Language teacher, Mr. Underhill, always told me never to use the passive voice so I could not help but think what he would say about this class. This thought was enough to distract me from the myriad mosquito bites that litter my legs. I just hope they do not start to swell and puss like other people have encountered on this trip.
After school today, we were busy, it almost reminded me of the first week (almost). We met the bus at the corner right as classes ended and headed to UNIFE, the feminine university for translation. Here, I ate a nice salad and a Peruvian version of beef stew (basically beef, potatoes and rices covered in a delectable sauce). Then, we were shown around the school and taught more about the program itself and Peruvian culture as a whole. I am still baffled that many Peruvians start college at around 16 years old, I cannot even imagine being that young in college. We spoke with our language partner until it was time to go and visit another museum.
This time we toured El Museo del Oro. In this museum, there were mainly artifacts from the ancient civilization, especially weapons and jewelry. I used to think I was cool for having my nose pierced but these ancient Peruvians had a different standard, but I do not think I could ever reach their level of extravagance. We learned about the death rituals and mummification (we even saw a couple of mummies), and it continues to baffle me overtime. I am just blown away with how every culture handles dead emphasizing different significances. Also, I found a new appreciation for the time commitment for every piece to be handcrafted.
On the way home, I walked a new route with Ryan as we learned we are neighbors and there's a faster way to get home than our previous way (only took until the last week right?). When I got home, my host mom made me a nice dinner of rice, quinoa and an egg, accompanied by my usual salad, tea and a special surprise: jello. As always, it was delicious. Then, I bunkered down for the night to get everything organized and complete my homework.
Hasta la próxima vez!