Holaaaa ^__^
Estoy muy cansada pero contenta. (I am very tired, but happy/pleased.) Today was day two in Buenos Aires, but my first full day. Comí desayuno y cena con mis padres pero no almuerzo. (I ate breakfast and dinner with my parents, but not lunch.) Myself and other American students had lunch together at the study abroad program's office. We had our first Argentine empanadas! They were amaazing and I will definitely be learning how to make them. ;) The pastries are normally filled with meat, but two of us are vegetarians. Funny thing is, I actually altered my diet to fit the culture. However, my host parents had no concerns. They just encourage me to get enough nutrients by cooking hearty, protein-rich meals lol. (Feels like I'm home haha.)
After lunch, two staff members led mis amigos *Norte Americana* y yo (my North American friends and I) on a city tour. *We do not say American because South Americans are also Americans and scoff when we pretend they aren't lol.* La ciudad es tan hermoso. (The city was so beautiful.) It's so colorful and rich! I took no pictures though lol. This week is May Week & tomorrow, May 25th, is a holiday. We celebrate the day we broke free from Spanish rule. It's kinda like the U.S.' Fourth of July. However, May Revolution differs from Argentina's Independence Day. Because of the holiday, the city is more PACKED than usual. Like in every city, more people equals more crime. Having a camera out, speaking English, etc. alerts thieves of your foreignness. Therefore, I chose not to take pictures on my first time in those neighborhoods and with so many people bunched together.
In short, today was great. I am even happier than I was yesterday. At dinner this evening, my host mom commented on how much my vocabulary has grown already :) she said the best thing for me to do since I understand Spanish better than I speak it, is to use language. Instead of being frustrated when I do not have the words I want to say, I am learning to laugh it off, act it out, and have a native speaker teach me the word. I begin school on Tuesday, so I will let you guys know how it goes.
Honestly y'all, I almost forgot this is a mission trip first! I had to rebuke myself today. I've been adjusting to a new culture, transitioning to a new-ish language, and taking in each experience. Nevertheless, I didn't come for empanadas or fiestas. I didn't even come here for Spanish. I cannot fully articulate my heart's thoughts on the matter, but I do remember I came here to serve the Lord and His children. My fellow North American expats have already begun asking about the mission work I'll be doing. I really don't know yet. I meet my mentor later this week, so that'll be cleared up soon.
Wow, it's becoming difficult to think or write in English. Oh well lol. Gonna stop fighting sleep and knock out for the night. I get to sleep in later tomorrow :)
Besos!
- Mia