So far, we have been in Lima for the same amount of days as there are letters in the alphabet. Crazy.
Anyways, I did not want to wake up for the 6 am alarm this morning, but I just had to bite the bullet. After my run, I got ready for school and headed on my merry way, making the necessary Starbuck's stop per usual.
Today in El Sol, we continued practicing everything we have learned so far, with special emphasis on el estilo indirecto y la voz pasiva. I find these classes to be a lot more enjoyable as the conversation is more open. Also, according to JuanCarlos, we stopped learning the grammar and now the next step, the hardest, is learning all of the vocabulary. I think this thought is the reason JuanCarlos prompts us to ask any questions we may have about the Spanish language and culture. He is more concerned that we actually comprehend what we are doing than any grade we might receive. He's a really cool guy, I am so happy he has been my teacher for the past two weeks. Oh, and I am still working on the entire dog situation. As for conversation, we discussed the following problem: a manager reported his own company for their illegal pollution of a nearby river - should he be fired or continue working there? The hour flew by as we discussed morals, corruption with business and the necessity to protect the environment. I was especially excited to discuss this matter because it helps me practice talking about topics that truly interest me and are significant in my life: the environment.
Once classes ended, we headed to UNIFE. If I am completely honest, I was close to staying home as I was feeling very ill, but I knew I had to rally. First, we ate potatoes and lomo saltado for lunch. We finished lunch early, so we spent the rest of the hour walking around the architecture fair again (which was selling makeup, desserts and jewelry so I am unsure as to how that all relates to architecture). Then, we proceed to the presentations which took a total of two hours today. It's interesting to listen to and engage in the presentations, but it is difficult for my to sit still for two hours. Due to this, I pulled out an old trick from high school: friendship bracelet string. I may look odd, but it helps me release my energy while simultaneously focusing on the presentations. Also, someone gets a bracelet/anklet out of it so its a win-win-win, but I am running out of sting so I need to find some soon. After the presentations, we attended a lecture about architecture, specifically that of the Incans. It was interesting, but a lot of it we knew from the myriad museums that we visited the first week. To end the day, we watched the Marinera performance, and some of us even learned the dance. OR at least tried to (shoutout to Ryan who slipped and ruined his shot at being a professional Marinera-er.
Finally, we headed home, and I had a pasta dinner and carrot cake dessert waiting for me. Today was too long and calls for an early night, so buenas noches!
Wednesday, June 7, 2017
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Day Twenty-Five
What's funnier than 24? Twenty-five. As in it is ridiculous how fast twenty-five days has gone by.
Sorry to disappoint, but today started the same as the rest of the week. I woke up, went for a run, got ready then headed to school. Wait, actually, I did have to bring my laundry to school again but I do not think that is as exciting as the morning I got hit by a car.
In class today, we reviewed the grammar we have been learning for the past week. However, rather than monotonously working in our books, JuanCarlos opened the discussion and we talked about our lives throughout the class. In fact, we learned that he breeds Dobermans and has a puppy who needs a home. Mom and Dad, he is really cute and the offer is still on the table. In conversation class, we were given a real life scenario of a boulder stuck in the road in an impoverished town. Using our Spanish knowledge, we had to articulate the best course of action. Not only did I get to tap into my engineering mindset, but it was interesting to see the problems that many people have to deal with that I would never have even thought of on my own. Ultimately, we reached the conclusion of breaking the rock into pieces, reusing bags to bring the pieces down to the river where we would then build a barrier to prevent the river from flooding.
After classes, we headed back to UNIFE. Here, I had a delectable lunch of beef, rice and potato-spinach puree. Then, we spoke with our conversation partners for an hour about everything from the police to fashion to literature to music. The school was also having a fair, so we all checked that out together and Cati and I even bought matching rings. When the hour finished, we headed inside for another discussion about literature. The professor reminded me of one of my English teachers in high school, and I even felt as though I was back learning about the different type of literature and their significances because the class was so similar to what I am used to. Then, we headed to the library to listen to our class present on our book. After each Northeastern student spoke, a UNIFE student would then translate, therefore it was a useful time for both parties involved.
At the end of the day, we headed home. I had a nice dinner of fish, rice and potatoes with jello for dessert. Then, being the good student I am, worked on my presentation, homework and blogs. Now, we are in the midst of deciding where to go out to prepare for Eric's birthday tomorrow. Ciao!
Sorry to disappoint, but today started the same as the rest of the week. I woke up, went for a run, got ready then headed to school. Wait, actually, I did have to bring my laundry to school again but I do not think that is as exciting as the morning I got hit by a car.
In class today, we reviewed the grammar we have been learning for the past week. However, rather than monotonously working in our books, JuanCarlos opened the discussion and we talked about our lives throughout the class. In fact, we learned that he breeds Dobermans and has a puppy who needs a home. Mom and Dad, he is really cute and the offer is still on the table. In conversation class, we were given a real life scenario of a boulder stuck in the road in an impoverished town. Using our Spanish knowledge, we had to articulate the best course of action. Not only did I get to tap into my engineering mindset, but it was interesting to see the problems that many people have to deal with that I would never have even thought of on my own. Ultimately, we reached the conclusion of breaking the rock into pieces, reusing bags to bring the pieces down to the river where we would then build a barrier to prevent the river from flooding.
After classes, we headed back to UNIFE. Here, I had a delectable lunch of beef, rice and potato-spinach puree. Then, we spoke with our conversation partners for an hour about everything from the police to fashion to literature to music. The school was also having a fair, so we all checked that out together and Cati and I even bought matching rings. When the hour finished, we headed inside for another discussion about literature. The professor reminded me of one of my English teachers in high school, and I even felt as though I was back learning about the different type of literature and their significances because the class was so similar to what I am used to. Then, we headed to the library to listen to our class present on our book. After each Northeastern student spoke, a UNIFE student would then translate, therefore it was a useful time for both parties involved.
At the end of the day, we headed home. I had a nice dinner of fish, rice and potatoes with jello for dessert. Then, being the good student I am, worked on my presentation, homework and blogs. Now, we are in the midst of deciding where to go out to prepare for Eric's birthday tomorrow. Ciao!
Monday, June 5, 2017
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!
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!
Day Twenty-Three
"Oh boy 4 am!" is definitely not what I said as my alarm went off this morning. I set it early so that I could have enough time to do some quick abs and shower, but unfortunately, I could not gather the strength to leave the warmth of my bed. Begrudgingly, I did eventually get up, shower, gather my stuff and order an uber on time to meet up with the rest of the group at the usual spot on Ricardo Palma. Thankfully, the bus ride was four hours and I have been trained to sleep on buses, so I had no problem picking up where I left off two hours prior.
Eventually, we reached Luanahuana. We changed into our bathing suits (well some did) and put on our bug spray (to no avail), and headed for the river. That's right, your girl went white water rafting for the first time. Luckily enough, I was the extra person in the boat so I did not have to paddle. However, the GoPro did get nice footage of me practicing my coxswain skills. Northeastern rowing here I come! Just skidding, I got distracted too easily and my raft ended up dangling off a rock and beached quite a few times, also to anyone who ever said that we do not get wet (Monica) lies. Although I left with wet shorts, I would go back and do it all again in a heartbeat.
As if that was not enough adventure for one day, we headed a bit away from the river where we saw ATVs lining both sides of the street. That's right, another first checked off the curet list; we each got to ride our own ATV through the Peruvian mountains. It was very dusty, but another incredible experience. There is nothing like speeding my the trees lining the cliffs as the mountains tower over you on both sides: simply unforgettable. When the ATVs were all parked and our hunger began settling in, we all sat down to a lovely lunch of our favorite: chicken, rice and potatoes. However, this time there were options of six different types of chicken. Personally, I chose vino pollo, which was basically chicken in wine sauce. It was delicious, but don't worry dad, I had nothing on your marsala.
When dinner was finished, we headed to La Plaza Mayor de Luanahuana where we visited this quaint archaic church. It was actually in impressive shape, nestled between mountains, for being built in the 16th century and enduring several earthquakes. We boarded the bus once again and headed to another favorite: the vineyards. This wine and pisco are known for their healing properties (Peruvians here live to be 120 years old), and I would have purchased some but they were just too sweet for my taste. Another great surprise was the one month old puppy whose owner came in to buy some of the famous wine. Of course, he reminded me of my own pup back home, but it's only two weeks until I get to see him again. Finally, we made our last stop at the honey farm where we sampled all types of honey (and even some pollen), and I did have to buy some because it was just delicious. However, the tasting came at a cost as now my legs are covered in mosquito bites despite the gross amount of repellent I put on.
After four and a half hours in the bus back, I finally arrived back to Miraflores where I ate dinner and slept as soon as I home. All in all, it was a fun day, but I was so ready to sleep as soon as my head hit the pillow. Buenas noches!
Eventually, we reached Luanahuana. We changed into our bathing suits (well some did) and put on our bug spray (to no avail), and headed for the river. That's right, your girl went white water rafting for the first time. Luckily enough, I was the extra person in the boat so I did not have to paddle. However, the GoPro did get nice footage of me practicing my coxswain skills. Northeastern rowing here I come! Just skidding, I got distracted too easily and my raft ended up dangling off a rock and beached quite a few times, also to anyone who ever said that we do not get wet (Monica) lies. Although I left with wet shorts, I would go back and do it all again in a heartbeat.
As if that was not enough adventure for one day, we headed a bit away from the river where we saw ATVs lining both sides of the street. That's right, another first checked off the curet list; we each got to ride our own ATV through the Peruvian mountains. It was very dusty, but another incredible experience. There is nothing like speeding my the trees lining the cliffs as the mountains tower over you on both sides: simply unforgettable. When the ATVs were all parked and our hunger began settling in, we all sat down to a lovely lunch of our favorite: chicken, rice and potatoes. However, this time there were options of six different types of chicken. Personally, I chose vino pollo, which was basically chicken in wine sauce. It was delicious, but don't worry dad, I had nothing on your marsala.
When dinner was finished, we headed to La Plaza Mayor de Luanahuana where we visited this quaint archaic church. It was actually in impressive shape, nestled between mountains, for being built in the 16th century and enduring several earthquakes. We boarded the bus once again and headed to another favorite: the vineyards. This wine and pisco are known for their healing properties (Peruvians here live to be 120 years old), and I would have purchased some but they were just too sweet for my taste. Another great surprise was the one month old puppy whose owner came in to buy some of the famous wine. Of course, he reminded me of my own pup back home, but it's only two weeks until I get to see him again. Finally, we made our last stop at the honey farm where we sampled all types of honey (and even some pollen), and I did have to buy some because it was just delicious. However, the tasting came at a cost as now my legs are covered in mosquito bites despite the gross amount of repellent I put on.
After four and a half hours in the bus back, I finally arrived back to Miraflores where I ate dinner and slept as soon as I home. All in all, it was a fun day, but I was so ready to sleep as soon as my head hit the pillow. Buenas noches!
Day Twenty-Two
I don't know about you, but I'm feeling 22 days in Lima completely blew by. How is there only one week left?!
I apologize Mom and Dad but last night was a late (but worth it). We all hung out in the Parque de Amor then headed to a discoteca in Barranco. It was a lot of fun, but the 6 am wake up call was not. Regardless, I rallied. I got up, showered then walked over to the meeting place about a mile away from my house just in time for the 8 am pick up.
Today, we took on the Capitol. We visited the palace at first. It's astonishing artwork, marvelous furniture and intricate gilded sculpting were breathtaking. I also enjoyed the guards and made sure to get a selfie with one before we left.
The next stop was the the cathedral. Again, the arquitecture was amazing. Apparently, its structure is earthquake resistant which I didn't think was possible so it was interesting to learn.
After the tours, we spent and hour in the city center. In other words, we all bought delicious sandwiches and sat on the city steps having rubix cube competitions. It was great.
Back in Miraflores, we stopped at Bla cafe on the way home because apparently you cannot leave Lima without trying their chocolate cake: they are right. Once my belly was full, I went home to nap, but stopped by to see Cati's and Tori's new hair (inspired by yours truly).
Rejuvenated from my sleep, I warmed up the dinner that my host mom left for me. Then, I got ready and headed over to Victoria's in Barranco. Initially, I thought it was just going to be Mia and me, but everyone ended up showing up. It was a very artsy bar with string lights and friendly staff. In fact, the bartender introduced me to a new drink: gin and tonic. I may have sounded like an old lady ordering it for the rest of the night, but it was amazing (maybe the cucumbers did it).
Well, I have a bright and early 4 am wake up tomorrow. ¡Hasta mañana!
Friday, June 2, 2017
Day Twenty-One
Viernes!
Expect with Viernes, comes an early start at school and a test. However, JuanCarlos was very chill about the test and took it more like a chance to practice rather than a mandatory exam. I think he is one of my favorite teachers so far. In conversation, we got to play telephone which was also very fun, thank you Diana.
After school today, we headed over to the Oncology unit in a hospital in Lima. Here, we spent time with kids our age, but who were enduring unthinkable circumstances. Of course, it was depressing, but it was also fun to just hang out, talk and laugh for an hour. I admire how strong they all were, but also understand they're just normal kids like us who just want a chance at a regular life. For example, we compared our lives in the different cities, sang "Despacito" and even bonded over our mutual love of Rubix cubes. All in all, we got to make new friends who we can now talk to over Facebook.
I walked home from Parque Kennedy and took a necessary nap. I may have spent a bit too much time solving my newly acquired Rubix cube over and over again, but I was able to finish my homework. Now, I am getting ready to head to Larcomar to practice the salsa moves we learned on Wednesday. Ciao!
Expect with Viernes, comes an early start at school and a test. However, JuanCarlos was very chill about the test and took it more like a chance to practice rather than a mandatory exam. I think he is one of my favorite teachers so far. In conversation, we got to play telephone which was also very fun, thank you Diana.
After school today, we headed over to the Oncology unit in a hospital in Lima. Here, we spent time with kids our age, but who were enduring unthinkable circumstances. Of course, it was depressing, but it was also fun to just hang out, talk and laugh for an hour. I admire how strong they all were, but also understand they're just normal kids like us who just want a chance at a regular life. For example, we compared our lives in the different cities, sang "Despacito" and even bonded over our mutual love of Rubix cubes. All in all, we got to make new friends who we can now talk to over Facebook.
I walked home from Parque Kennedy and took a necessary nap. I may have spent a bit too much time solving my newly acquired Rubix cube over and over again, but I was able to finish my homework. Now, I am getting ready to head to Larcomar to practice the salsa moves we learned on Wednesday. Ciao!
Day Twenty
In all honesty, today did not get off to a great start. I left my apartment to go to school, however while I was crossing the street, the car that was stopped decided to start going. I was in the middle of the street and he just starts rolling forward as if I was not even there. Thankfully, I was able to bend with the car so he did not even touch my legs, but still, it was ridiculous and left my hand a bit sore. Then, as if that was not enough, I dropped my yogurt from Starbucks on the ground right before walking into school, and of course, it exploded. To top it off, JuanCarlos started class by telling me that Trump left the Paris accord; there goes my chances at getting any job.
Though the morning started on a rough note, it got better as I began to understand more of the subjunctive in class, so I spoke more. It is a lot easier when there are fewer people in your class, less pressure, so I really appreciate every thing that I have been able to learn at El Sol so far.
After classes, we listened to the class presentations, which I need to finish. They were actually interesting as they promoted intellectual conversation rather than droning on about nothing.
When the presentations ended, Nathalie, Kelly and I took to the Peruvians streets t shop. Although I did not buy anything, it was fun to try everything on. Of course, we stopped by Ice Cookies before heading home to get some gelato.
At home, I ate dinner and did some homework. Then, I left to go to Larcomar and continue this dialogue's tradition of Thursday's at TGIFriday's. Cannot get more Peruvian than that. Hasta la proxima vez!
Though the morning started on a rough note, it got better as I began to understand more of the subjunctive in class, so I spoke more. It is a lot easier when there are fewer people in your class, less pressure, so I really appreciate every thing that I have been able to learn at El Sol so far.
After classes, we listened to the class presentations, which I need to finish. They were actually interesting as they promoted intellectual conversation rather than droning on about nothing.
When the presentations ended, Nathalie, Kelly and I took to the Peruvians streets t shop. Although I did not buy anything, it was fun to try everything on. Of course, we stopped by Ice Cookies before heading home to get some gelato.
At home, I ate dinner and did some homework. Then, I left to go to Larcomar and continue this dialogue's tradition of Thursday's at TGIFriday's. Cannot get more Peruvian than that. Hasta la proxima vez!
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