Today was my last day at el comedor. I was looking forward to seeing the kids and seeing their reactions to the mural. They all LOVED it! They spent forever looking at all the tiles and searching for their own! But then the strangest thing happened…
We sat down to eat, we ate lunch, and then they all left. They just ate and left—no goodbyes, no nothing. I was shocked. They knew it was my last day (or I thought they did) and they also knew I was THERE, which means the classroom could be unlocked to play with all the toys/books/games.
So I was in the classroom with about four kids and we sat in a circle and played UNO for an hour. Low-key, no stress, no screaming kids, and everyone put away their toys after playing with it. But in reality, no one was really there.
So I told the handful that actually WAS there that we were going on a fieldtrip to find the other kids. I wanted a photo with the kids, the mural, and me and gosh darn if I wasn’t going to travel around the entire neighborhood to find my kids! And that’s exactly what we did. I traveled to four different houses and successfully rounded up a majority of my “regulars.”
We got back to el comedor, and they were cleaning the floor (of course)…so we had to wait. So they played quietly in the classroom and I took quite a few pictures. Then the photo shoot started. Half the kids didn’t even want to be in the photo! It was so disappointing. But I have a few shots of me and a group of the younger girls with the mural and none of the girls wanted to smile for the camera either. So it looks like they were threatened to be in the photo.
Then, to top it all off, as soon as the camera was turned off the kids just ran out! I heard a few “ciaos,” but no hugs or anything. I did convince the two twin girls to give me a hug, so it made me feel a little better, but within minutes, they were all gone and that was that.
The mothers were much more affectionate and I received a hug and best wishes from all of them. Maria even walked me down to the bus stop to chat a little bit more before I left.
But it was a weird goodbye…
Monday, August 10, 2009
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Overcoming Boredom
Today was a long, boring day. I found out that the kids are not allowed to come back until MONDAY! Their first day back is my last day—and I’ll need to leave earlier than usual since I have to get home to finish packing and not miss my flight. Also, they aren’t celebrating El Dia de Los Niños with a big fiesta until the 16th of August, so I’ll miss out, which is a bummer.
To pass the time, I wrote out the directions for taking care of the mural (basically, only clean with a feather duster, and DON’T TOUCH IT). I also delivered the extra unused (but painted) tiles to their respective homes—so I got a nice walk around the neighborhood.
However, after all this it still wasn’t 1pm. The mothers took extra long today to cook, and we weren’t handing out food to the families until 2:15pm. We had a small set back when no one had yet cut the cheese (no pun intended) to put with the batata. So there was a quick frenzy of cutting thin slices appropriate enough to feed everyone and to not delay the food serving any longer.
So tomorrow and Friday will be spent doing very little, but I’ll still go to help when I can (especially with regards to the photos in the dining hall).
The day ended with fun news. Maria Rodriguez, the mother closest to me in age (she’s 23 and already has 3 kids), invited me to join her and the other mothers on a girl’s night out on Friday. I’m definitely going and am very curious to see how the evening with go. The youngest mother is 23, but everyone else is 28 or above. All have at least three children if not more (except one mother who has two). I'll have to see how these parents party!
A quick side note: I posted another photo on the bottom of the webpage with me in it, so you get a better idea of the size of the mural…
To pass the time, I wrote out the directions for taking care of the mural (basically, only clean with a feather duster, and DON’T TOUCH IT). I also delivered the extra unused (but painted) tiles to their respective homes—so I got a nice walk around the neighborhood.
However, after all this it still wasn’t 1pm. The mothers took extra long today to cook, and we weren’t handing out food to the families until 2:15pm. We had a small set back when no one had yet cut the cheese (no pun intended) to put with the batata. So there was a quick frenzy of cutting thin slices appropriate enough to feed everyone and to not delay the food serving any longer.
So tomorrow and Friday will be spent doing very little, but I’ll still go to help when I can (especially with regards to the photos in the dining hall).
The day ended with fun news. Maria Rodriguez, the mother closest to me in age (she’s 23 and already has 3 kids), invited me to join her and the other mothers on a girl’s night out on Friday. I’m definitely going and am very curious to see how the evening with go. The youngest mother is 23, but everyone else is 28 or above. All have at least three children if not more (except one mother who has two). I'll have to see how these parents party!
A quick side note: I posted another photo on the bottom of the webpage with me in it, so you get a better idea of the size of the mural…
La Historia de La Floresta
This soup kitchen (comedor) was started fifteen years ago. It is officially called “Centro Infantial La Floresta” or “Floresta Centro” (because there is also a Floresta Norte and Floresta Sur). The women I cook with every day were the same women who constructed the entire comedor, brick by brick.
It originally had a small orchard/farm in the back with vegetables, chickens, and even rabbits. However, over time, they weren’t able to keep it up and it made more sense to have the food delivered—for both greater quantities and most likely better quality.
The dining hall used to be the classroom and had paintings on the walls of Disney characters (ex. Woody the woodpecker and Simba) and basic numbers (1, 2, 3). The room in the back, where the outdoor kitchen is was a recent addition, constructed entirely by the volunteering mothers.
It also has recently received a paint job; recently in the sense that it happened in the past five years, since the “new” paint has already worn off in many areas. The bottom half of all the walls used to be blue, but is now a dark brown.
La Floresta has overcome many changes in the past fifteen years, and they still have plans to improve it. They want to install wooden bookshelves in the classroom to create a more “professional” library. They also want to install a door (picture a garage door) for the fourth wall of the classroom. Tomorrow and Friday, I plan to help Amalia put up pictures from the past years along the walls of the dining hall to compliment the mural.
It originally had a small orchard/farm in the back with vegetables, chickens, and even rabbits. However, over time, they weren’t able to keep it up and it made more sense to have the food delivered—for both greater quantities and most likely better quality.
The dining hall used to be the classroom and had paintings on the walls of Disney characters (ex. Woody the woodpecker and Simba) and basic numbers (1, 2, 3). The room in the back, where the outdoor kitchen is was a recent addition, constructed entirely by the volunteering mothers.
It also has recently received a paint job; recently in the sense that it happened in the past five years, since the “new” paint has already worn off in many areas. The bottom half of all the walls used to be blue, but is now a dark brown.
La Floresta has overcome many changes in the past fifteen years, and they still have plans to improve it. They want to install wooden bookshelves in the classroom to create a more “professional” library. They also want to install a door (picture a garage door) for the fourth wall of the classroom. Tomorrow and Friday, I plan to help Amalia put up pictures from the past years along the walls of the dining hall to compliment the mural.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Lack of Children
I had imagined a crazy day. All the kids returning, screaming, throwing things, each one wanting to do a different thing…I knew I’d be exhausted, but it would be worth it, because today was going to be the grand day when everyone saw the mural!
As should be expected, nothing ever goes quite as planned. In fact, no children came today. A member of the Health Ministry needs to come to el comedor and officially reopen it before families are allowed to eat there and kids are allowed to come. And no one knows when that will be. It could be tomorrow, it could be late this week, and it could be after I leave. So today was spent chopping onions, garlic, and preparing today’s postre—batata and queso—delicious. We’ll just have to wait until the government decides to show up.
As should be expected, nothing ever goes quite as planned. In fact, no children came today. A member of the Health Ministry needs to come to el comedor and officially reopen it before families are allowed to eat there and kids are allowed to come. And no one knows when that will be. It could be tomorrow, it could be late this week, and it could be after I leave. So today was spent chopping onions, garlic, and preparing today’s postre—batata and queso—delicious. We’ll just have to wait until the government decides to show up.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
El Dia de la Pachamama
Yesterday was a holiday celebrating Mother Earth (la Madre de la Tierra). Laura and Miguel had a small fiesta to celebrate and to demonstrate the ceremony that is done. Since it is a day to celebrate Mother Earth, who provides for us throughout the year, the ceremony is our chance to give back and show our thanks. So in one of the patios, Miguel dug a small hole. Within the hole, they pour water and wine. They also spread incense, and put in coca leaves, cigarettes, fake money, rice, and other types of food (everything in very small quantities of course). After each person has given back to Mother Earth, they cover up the hole and leave it there for the next year to represent their thanks and devotion to the abundance Mother Earth provides annually.
I was told this tradition originated from the indigenous tribes of this area and is not celebrated throughout Argentina.
Miguel also had friends over to help us celebrate. They were a family who lives out in the mountains and had come into town for the past two weeks for the winter vacation’s feria, selling their goods. I had actually bought a blanket from them made from llama’s wool earlier that day. And for the main meal, our guests had brought llama meat. So last night, I ate llama.
It did not taste like chicken. It tasted similar to beef, but was less greasy, and very tasty. Also, in order to make sure everyone ate together, we didn’t end up eating until 11:30pm (which is a record for me) and while I only lasted until about 1:30am, I believe the party kept going for a while after.
It was one of more interesting “religious” ceremonies I’ve been to, since it’s the only one that isn’t based on a monotheistic textbook religion that is normally taught. It is a community’s religious practice based primarily on what they are given, since that is what keeps them living. While a majority is Catholic, each province of Argentina is a different kind of Catholic. I don’t mean separate denominations, but each area uses Catholicism differently. Some rarely practice it. Others are extremely devoted and regularly attend religious services. Some practice it daily by doing the motions of a cross every time they pass by a church (which I see often on the bus). While others, such as Miguel, incorporate their ancestral traditions and create a new religion—a combination of the Catholic influence and one’s own religious heritage.
I was told this tradition originated from the indigenous tribes of this area and is not celebrated throughout Argentina.
Miguel also had friends over to help us celebrate. They were a family who lives out in the mountains and had come into town for the past two weeks for the winter vacation’s feria, selling their goods. I had actually bought a blanket from them made from llama’s wool earlier that day. And for the main meal, our guests had brought llama meat. So last night, I ate llama.
It did not taste like chicken. It tasted similar to beef, but was less greasy, and very tasty. Also, in order to make sure everyone ate together, we didn’t end up eating until 11:30pm (which is a record for me) and while I only lasted until about 1:30am, I believe the party kept going for a while after.
It was one of more interesting “religious” ceremonies I’ve been to, since it’s the only one that isn’t based on a monotheistic textbook religion that is normally taught. It is a community’s religious practice based primarily on what they are given, since that is what keeps them living. While a majority is Catholic, each province of Argentina is a different kind of Catholic. I don’t mean separate denominations, but each area uses Catholicism differently. Some rarely practice it. Others are extremely devoted and regularly attend religious services. Some practice it daily by doing the motions of a cross every time they pass by a church (which I see often on the bus). While others, such as Miguel, incorporate their ancestral traditions and create a new religion—a combination of the Catholic influence and one’s own religious heritage.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
It's Done
I have no words to sufficiently describe the feelings of relief and happiness I have now that it’s all done.
A photo is at the bottom of the web page.
A photo is at the bottom of the web page.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Still Not Done
Today was extremely stressful. It turns out the varnish ruined a handful of the tiles. We tried it on a spare, and it seemed to work fine, but we didn’t take into account that the tile is standing upright, and gravity will make the marker run. I can’t even begin to explain how upset I was (and am), especially knowing there is nothing I can do. In addition, we still haven’t finished, and today I went out to buy lamination paper to put over it. Don Flores says this is the only other option—so tomorrow, on Saturday, I’m off to el comedor to finish this mural. I could wait until Sunday morning to do it, since tomorrow is el Dia de la Pachamama and I should be celebrating, but I’m too driven and frustrated to wait another day. It’s going to happen tomorrow, end of story.
I may try and fix up a few of the biggest mistakes on the ruined tiles—at least where it’s most important with names being unreadable. But when told something was wrong, Amalia couldn’t find the mistake—so I guess it’s not as bad as I seem to make it. Laura also tried to make me feel better that even if there are a few blips, in the end I accomplished a lot more than past volunteers, so the motivation and initiative will be truly appreciated for years to come (since I hope this mural stays up for quite some time).
After a stressful beginning, I took my frustration out on helping the mothers cook, which kept my mind occupied. I had also baked cookies for dessert especially for the mothers to thank them for all of their help. During lunch we chatted about all sorts of things. They asked questions about whether or not Americans had a problem with Obama being black (I said the discussion was more about whether or not he was Muslim), what was a marshmallow (they asked if it was a fruit), and what is peanut butter (and what do we use it for). Most of their questions concerning American culture and food came from what they’ve seen on the Simpsons. Then, Amalia asked if soup kitchens existed—which they do—and she was surprised that a first-world country like the U.S. would still have enough poor people to need soup kitchens. Also, Adela talked about what she heard concerning the U.S. kicking the Native Americans out of their homelands, and even the rumors that the government kicked them out of the country entirely.
It was an extremely interesting meal, and it was one of the first times they had asked so many questions about where I come from. And it ended with oohs and ahhs and requests for the recipe of the chocolate chip cookies. They were all gone within 15 minutes!
I just hope tomorrow goes smoothly. This has been my longest week since I’ve been here and I want it to end. The fact that its dragging into a Saturday isn’t helping either.
I may try and fix up a few of the biggest mistakes on the ruined tiles—at least where it’s most important with names being unreadable. But when told something was wrong, Amalia couldn’t find the mistake—so I guess it’s not as bad as I seem to make it. Laura also tried to make me feel better that even if there are a few blips, in the end I accomplished a lot more than past volunteers, so the motivation and initiative will be truly appreciated for years to come (since I hope this mural stays up for quite some time).
After a stressful beginning, I took my frustration out on helping the mothers cook, which kept my mind occupied. I had also baked cookies for dessert especially for the mothers to thank them for all of their help. During lunch we chatted about all sorts of things. They asked questions about whether or not Americans had a problem with Obama being black (I said the discussion was more about whether or not he was Muslim), what was a marshmallow (they asked if it was a fruit), and what is peanut butter (and what do we use it for). Most of their questions concerning American culture and food came from what they’ve seen on the Simpsons. Then, Amalia asked if soup kitchens existed—which they do—and she was surprised that a first-world country like the U.S. would still have enough poor people to need soup kitchens. Also, Adela talked about what she heard concerning the U.S. kicking the Native Americans out of their homelands, and even the rumors that the government kicked them out of the country entirely.
It was an extremely interesting meal, and it was one of the first times they had asked so many questions about where I come from. And it ended with oohs and ahhs and requests for the recipe of the chocolate chip cookies. They were all gone within 15 minutes!
I just hope tomorrow goes smoothly. This has been my longest week since I’ve been here and I want it to end. The fact that its dragging into a Saturday isn’t helping either.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Let's Get It Done Already
The mural looks great, but we still aren’t done and I’m getting a little tired. Each day Don Flores tells me about yet another thing I need to buy, some other product that will be necessary for something. Today’s request was paint thinner, although there is a chance we can’t use it at all since it might eat away at the polyurethane coating and the markers…that would be really bad. So we’re going to “test” it tomorrow and see what happens. Otherwise, we’ll just use the lacquer straight up, which is more difficult to apply since its thickness is similar to honey.
But I’d like to get done earlier tomorrow since I plan to bring cookies for the mothers to thank them for the past few weeks and to celebrate the completion of the mural and my last day with them before I go back to eating with the kids (they start coming on Monday).
I also asked him how much this would cost me. He told me originally that he charges 25 pesos per square meter. It sounds reasonable. The mural itself is a little over 7 square meters, but he was talking about 300 pesos!
I told him it’s about 8 square meters, coming out to 200 pesos, not 300. He agreed to that. Although I know it should be less, I figure I’ll round up to help him out. He lives in the neighborhood of el comedor, and since he injured his leg and can no longer work at the company he used to work for, I’m sure he could use the money.
But I must say, with all these trips to the paint store, and the prices of each item rising each time I go (even when I buy the same thing I did a week prior), the total cost of this mural is really reaching its limits. In reality, DukeEngage did not provide any money meant for any on-site projects. All the costs were for living, food, and medical expenses. Thank goodness I was able to put aside enough of each “pot” to pay for this project…phew.
And for the record, Amalia and the other mothers absolutely LOVE it.
But I’d like to get done earlier tomorrow since I plan to bring cookies for the mothers to thank them for the past few weeks and to celebrate the completion of the mural and my last day with them before I go back to eating with the kids (they start coming on Monday).
I also asked him how much this would cost me. He told me originally that he charges 25 pesos per square meter. It sounds reasonable. The mural itself is a little over 7 square meters, but he was talking about 300 pesos!
I told him it’s about 8 square meters, coming out to 200 pesos, not 300. He agreed to that. Although I know it should be less, I figure I’ll round up to help him out. He lives in the neighborhood of el comedor, and since he injured his leg and can no longer work at the company he used to work for, I’m sure he could use the money.
But I must say, with all these trips to the paint store, and the prices of each item rising each time I go (even when I buy the same thing I did a week prior), the total cost of this mural is really reaching its limits. In reality, DukeEngage did not provide any money meant for any on-site projects. All the costs were for living, food, and medical expenses. Thank goodness I was able to put aside enough of each “pot” to pay for this project…phew.
And for the record, Amalia and the other mothers absolutely LOVE it.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
A New Record
A new record has been set by yours truly on the latest time ever to leave el comedor. The cooks had left over 3 hours beforehand. The nurse had even left almost 90 minutes beforehand. The workers and I did not leave until 7:30pm. Now, it may not seem all that late to you crazy-late-workers, but its actually not the wisest idea to be in Villa Floresta when it gets dark (around 7 or so), because it’s not the safest neighborhood.
Now don’t worry, I don’t plan on competing with myself to beat this record. In fact, starting at 5pm, I kept thinking we’d be gone within the next hour…and we just kept pasting tiles. It never seemed to end.
Luckily, this second nine-hour workday did prove to be successful. It started rough because Don Flores and his helper showed up at 11:30am when we scheduled for 10:30am. I guess that’s an improvement to be an hour late instead of an hour and a half late—but still. Tomorrow, we’re meeting at noon, and I asked him to PLEASE show up on time. I’m giving myself permission to go to his house at 12:05 to harass him if he’s not at el comedor at noon.
But we finished putting up all the tiles. All of them. Tomorrow is entirely devoted to putting in the grout. And Don Flores suggested a varnish to put over the grout and tiles to protect everything—which is exactly what I want. So Friday will be spent putting on the varnish. And then it will be done. It won’t have taken two days like Don Flores had originally guessed, but it’ll be done this week, and that is what is most important.
Now don’t worry, I don’t plan on competing with myself to beat this record. In fact, starting at 5pm, I kept thinking we’d be gone within the next hour…and we just kept pasting tiles. It never seemed to end.
Luckily, this second nine-hour workday did prove to be successful. It started rough because Don Flores and his helper showed up at 11:30am when we scheduled for 10:30am. I guess that’s an improvement to be an hour late instead of an hour and a half late—but still. Tomorrow, we’re meeting at noon, and I asked him to PLEASE show up on time. I’m giving myself permission to go to his house at 12:05 to harass him if he’s not at el comedor at noon.
But we finished putting up all the tiles. All of them. Tomorrow is entirely devoted to putting in the grout. And Don Flores suggested a varnish to put over the grout and tiles to protect everything—which is exactly what I want. So Friday will be spent putting on the varnish. And then it will be done. It won’t have taken two days like Don Flores had originally guessed, but it’ll be done this week, and that is what is most important.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
A Long Day
I was at el comedor for almost nine hours today. I’m beat.
I showed up at 9:40am to be ready when Don Flores was supposed to arrive at 10am. He didn’t. Typical.
Valeria showed up around 10:30am and we walked to Don Flores house. He wasn’t there, again. His wife said he left to pick up supplies and planned to be at el comedor around 10. It appears the family doesn’t have a watch or clock because we told her it was already 10:30 and she looked surprised. So we waited.
Don Flores finally showed up around noon. He and his helper (some teenager) went about preparing the wall for the glue by “picando.” I don’t know how to say it in English because this department of vocabulary is unknown to me, but he used a chisel to pick at the wall and scrap off some of the paint. This took over three hours. During this time, I organized the order of the tiles, and starting tearing the blue and orange tiles from the cardboard backing holding each sheet together. My fingernails aren’t very happy with me. Also, after the cooks had eaten, I got a little help from two of the mothers, and later on, the nurse who comes regularly to take care of little kids in families around the neighborhood, helped me.
Don Flores original estimate was finishing the entire mural today and putting in the grout tomorrow. That was a lofty goal, and by 6:30pm we had finished a little less than half. However, we have all of tomorrow to finish it and we’ll put in the grout on Thursday. And once the letters are up for “La Floresta” the rest will be easy-breezy.
Tomorrow’s meeting time is 10:30am and I have higher hopes that he’ll show up on time. He no longer has an excuse to buy supplies…
It was a very successful day and I’m really excited how it looks so far. My only concern is whether or not the spray I put on the tiles to protect the marker will actually stay. Don Flores said he was cleaning them and a little bit wiped away. That’s really not good, especially since it could result in massive wear-and-tear over a short period of time—which is not what I want. Maybe I’ll try adding more “esmalte” tomorrow before we do the grout on Thursday…
I showed up at 9:40am to be ready when Don Flores was supposed to arrive at 10am. He didn’t. Typical.
Valeria showed up around 10:30am and we walked to Don Flores house. He wasn’t there, again. His wife said he left to pick up supplies and planned to be at el comedor around 10. It appears the family doesn’t have a watch or clock because we told her it was already 10:30 and she looked surprised. So we waited.
Don Flores finally showed up around noon. He and his helper (some teenager) went about preparing the wall for the glue by “picando.” I don’t know how to say it in English because this department of vocabulary is unknown to me, but he used a chisel to pick at the wall and scrap off some of the paint. This took over three hours. During this time, I organized the order of the tiles, and starting tearing the blue and orange tiles from the cardboard backing holding each sheet together. My fingernails aren’t very happy with me. Also, after the cooks had eaten, I got a little help from two of the mothers, and later on, the nurse who comes regularly to take care of little kids in families around the neighborhood, helped me.
Don Flores original estimate was finishing the entire mural today and putting in the grout tomorrow. That was a lofty goal, and by 6:30pm we had finished a little less than half. However, we have all of tomorrow to finish it and we’ll put in the grout on Thursday. And once the letters are up for “La Floresta” the rest will be easy-breezy.
Tomorrow’s meeting time is 10:30am and I have higher hopes that he’ll show up on time. He no longer has an excuse to buy supplies…
It was a very successful day and I’m really excited how it looks so far. My only concern is whether or not the spray I put on the tiles to protect the marker will actually stay. Don Flores said he was cleaning them and a little bit wiped away. That’s really not good, especially since it could result in massive wear-and-tear over a short period of time—which is not what I want. Maybe I’ll try adding more “esmalte” tomorrow before we do the grout on Thursday…
Monday, July 27, 2009
An Affirmation and a No-show
I got the good and the bad today.
First and foremost, Amalia has “okayed” the use of the wall we had originally planned to use. She was skeptical because she didn’t exactly understand the project. In fact, she hadn’t yet seen the layout. So today, Valeria and I explained the project, showed her the design and all the tiles, and the goal that it’ll be enjoyed by all of the families when they enter the dining hall. I guess she really liked the idea. So much so, in fact, that she asked me to paste it in the center of the wall (of the wall you immediately see upon entering) so that it’ll serve as a centerpiece for the entire dining hall. Her concern was being able to put up pictures, since they’ve had previous plans to make the room slightly more attractive with pictures—so the mural will serve as the center point. What could be better than that? I was thrilled and a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders; but I did my best not to appear too happy or too relieved so that Amalia wouldn’t rethink her decision.
However, the worker never showed up. We had set the time for 11, and by noon, we hadn’t seen him. Luckily, Maria knew where he lived, and Valeria and I went to his house. He wasn’t there. His daughter said he “would be coming soon.”
A lie. The daughter walked to el comedor about 20 minutes later to say her dad couldn’t make it today because he was doing other work, but would be there tomorrow. Wrong answer.
Valeria (she did most of the talking to make sure NOTHING was misunderstood) made it very clear that he HAS to be here tomorrow, or else we’ll find someone else. We told her the deadline for finishing it was Thursday (even though we have until Friday, I’ve learned it’s best to make the deadline earlier to take into account any problems, such as today’s no-show). We need all of those days to work since quite a few layers of different materials need to be applied to the wall prior to putting up the tiles, and they all need to completely dry. Even once the tiles are put up, they need between 24 and 48 hours before applying the grout. That takes a week.
After helping with the cooking and eating lunch, I stopped by the house once more to double check that the daughter had reached her dad and he knew to come tomorrow at 10am. According to both the daughter and son, it’s a sure thing.
Valeria will also come tomorrow to explain to the worker the importance of coming each day (she’s a saint).
I’m very happy that Amalia now approves, and she has even offered other options for workers if Don Flores (the current one) doesn’t pull through. I hope this works out...
First and foremost, Amalia has “okayed” the use of the wall we had originally planned to use. She was skeptical because she didn’t exactly understand the project. In fact, she hadn’t yet seen the layout. So today, Valeria and I explained the project, showed her the design and all the tiles, and the goal that it’ll be enjoyed by all of the families when they enter the dining hall. I guess she really liked the idea. So much so, in fact, that she asked me to paste it in the center of the wall (of the wall you immediately see upon entering) so that it’ll serve as a centerpiece for the entire dining hall. Her concern was being able to put up pictures, since they’ve had previous plans to make the room slightly more attractive with pictures—so the mural will serve as the center point. What could be better than that? I was thrilled and a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders; but I did my best not to appear too happy or too relieved so that Amalia wouldn’t rethink her decision.
However, the worker never showed up. We had set the time for 11, and by noon, we hadn’t seen him. Luckily, Maria knew where he lived, and Valeria and I went to his house. He wasn’t there. His daughter said he “would be coming soon.”
A lie. The daughter walked to el comedor about 20 minutes later to say her dad couldn’t make it today because he was doing other work, but would be there tomorrow. Wrong answer.
Valeria (she did most of the talking to make sure NOTHING was misunderstood) made it very clear that he HAS to be here tomorrow, or else we’ll find someone else. We told her the deadline for finishing it was Thursday (even though we have until Friday, I’ve learned it’s best to make the deadline earlier to take into account any problems, such as today’s no-show). We need all of those days to work since quite a few layers of different materials need to be applied to the wall prior to putting up the tiles, and they all need to completely dry. Even once the tiles are put up, they need between 24 and 48 hours before applying the grout. That takes a week.
After helping with the cooking and eating lunch, I stopped by the house once more to double check that the daughter had reached her dad and he knew to come tomorrow at 10am. According to both the daughter and son, it’s a sure thing.
Valeria will also come tomorrow to explain to the worker the importance of coming each day (she’s a saint).
I’m very happy that Amalia now approves, and she has even offered other options for workers if Don Flores (the current one) doesn’t pull through. I hope this works out...
Saturday, July 25, 2009
La Provincia de Jujuy
Where do I begin? Today was such a jam-packed fun-filled day I don’t think I’ll be able to recall it all. This excursion had “una ensalada” of people, as our guide Antonio put it. There were 6 Argentineans, 3 girls from Germany (who stuck together and arrived 40 minutes late to one of our meeting points, which limited our time at the church in the pueblito Uquia, which is only open for 1.5 hours every afternoon), 2 girls from Italy, 1 guy from Portugal, and me. We only conversed in Spanish, and I learned how to understand Spanish spoken with an Italian accent—it also was more interesting since their Spanish ability was similar to mine, so we each struggled with different types of language barriers. One of the Argentinean women had an American husband (from Arizona) who unfortunately didn’t go on the trip because he was tired…so I never got to meet him. But I did wander around with the wife and we enjoyed being the “single” women.
Our guide Antonio was funny to listen to because he loved to tell stories about past trips. As they are often the scapegoat, Antonio loved to make fun of the French. “Antonio, excuse moi, but the distance is 14km not 11km.” According to Antonio, the French treat their guide books like the Bible, and would counter any fact or numerical value that Antonio would cite. One time, he got into an argument with them to explain why it really is 11km and not 14km. They finally realized their misunderstanding and marked in the guidebook the mistake and said they would contact the company when they returned home, so future readers aren’t given the wrong information. He also recalled a story where a Japanese group didn’t know you don’t eat the outside of una humita or un tamal, and one Japanese lady had quite an experience. The outside of these entradas is similar to (or is) cornhusk (i.e. NOT to be eaten). So Antonio explained that now each time he stops to eat with a group, he clarifies that one should only eat the INSIDES of these courses.
We stopped at Purmamarca, Tilcara, Humahuaca, Uquia, Maimara, and San Salvador de Jujuy. We spent an average of 30 minutes at each site, so the pictures were taken quickly and one didn’t have time to think about whether or not they wanted to buy something. I felt so rushed.
Although the pace was a little fast, it was great to see so many places in one day, and each city had its own “special” thing. Purmamarca had a big feria (but so did all of them), Tilcara was home to the aborigine population that was holding a festival for Santa Ana, and all of the proceeds of buying trinkets there kept the indigenous population alive. We ate lunch in Humahuaca and were serenaded by a band with Argentinean instruments. The owner even played the accordion, and then demonstrated this oddly shaped horn, unique to Jujuy. It had a horribly loud, obnoxious sound—but hey, if its cultural, why not try to enjoy it? There was also a famous statue of Jujuy’s independence, and a sculpture of La Pachamama (Mother Earth—whose “day” is August 2nd this year). Uquia has a church with the famous paintings of the “Angeles Arcabuceros” (Armed Angels). They are literally paintings of angels with guns. Maimara was a quick roadside stop to take pictures of the cemetery. The cemeteries are almost always on the highest hill of a town; since the souls were closer to heaven, they believed they would arrive faster. Also, if any horrible weather came about, such as a flood, the cemetery wouldn’t be harmed. San Salvador de Jujuy is the province’s capital. We explored the church and the tiny feria.
There isn’t one thing that stood out, but overall it was a great trip and I met a lot of interesting people. One of the Italians and the guy from Portugal have both studied in Spain through Erasmus, and have visited Salamanca—so it brought back a few memories from the wonders of Spain. We also all enjoyed the company of a 10-year old, Ignacio (Nacho) who was traveling with his mom. He loved trying to learn different words in all of our first languages—how fun!
As a quick negative side note, still no news from Valeria.
Our guide Antonio was funny to listen to because he loved to tell stories about past trips. As they are often the scapegoat, Antonio loved to make fun of the French. “Antonio, excuse moi, but the distance is 14km not 11km.” According to Antonio, the French treat their guide books like the Bible, and would counter any fact or numerical value that Antonio would cite. One time, he got into an argument with them to explain why it really is 11km and not 14km. They finally realized their misunderstanding and marked in the guidebook the mistake and said they would contact the company when they returned home, so future readers aren’t given the wrong information. He also recalled a story where a Japanese group didn’t know you don’t eat the outside of una humita or un tamal, and one Japanese lady had quite an experience. The outside of these entradas is similar to (or is) cornhusk (i.e. NOT to be eaten). So Antonio explained that now each time he stops to eat with a group, he clarifies that one should only eat the INSIDES of these courses.
We stopped at Purmamarca, Tilcara, Humahuaca, Uquia, Maimara, and San Salvador de Jujuy. We spent an average of 30 minutes at each site, so the pictures were taken quickly and one didn’t have time to think about whether or not they wanted to buy something. I felt so rushed.
Although the pace was a little fast, it was great to see so many places in one day, and each city had its own “special” thing. Purmamarca had a big feria (but so did all of them), Tilcara was home to the aborigine population that was holding a festival for Santa Ana, and all of the proceeds of buying trinkets there kept the indigenous population alive. We ate lunch in Humahuaca and were serenaded by a band with Argentinean instruments. The owner even played the accordion, and then demonstrated this oddly shaped horn, unique to Jujuy. It had a horribly loud, obnoxious sound—but hey, if its cultural, why not try to enjoy it? There was also a famous statue of Jujuy’s independence, and a sculpture of La Pachamama (Mother Earth—whose “day” is August 2nd this year). Uquia has a church with the famous paintings of the “Angeles Arcabuceros” (Armed Angels). They are literally paintings of angels with guns. Maimara was a quick roadside stop to take pictures of the cemetery. The cemeteries are almost always on the highest hill of a town; since the souls were closer to heaven, they believed they would arrive faster. Also, if any horrible weather came about, such as a flood, the cemetery wouldn’t be harmed. San Salvador de Jujuy is the province’s capital. We explored the church and the tiny feria.
There isn’t one thing that stood out, but overall it was a great trip and I met a lot of interesting people. One of the Italians and the guy from Portugal have both studied in Spain through Erasmus, and have visited Salamanca—so it brought back a few memories from the wonders of Spain. We also all enjoyed the company of a 10-year old, Ignacio (Nacho) who was traveling with his mom. He loved trying to learn different words in all of our first languages—how fun!
As a quick negative side note, still no news from Valeria.
Friday, July 24, 2009
It was going TOO well
Something had to screw up, and it did. After a great day of painting tiles at two houses, with a total of 231, when I need 222 (in case some break), receiving a handmade scarf and hat from Elva as a gift, and learning to make tortillas, I got the bad news.
To make it even worse, Amalia wasn’t there to give me the bad news (even though she was at el comedor yesterday). Mari, the other main jefa wasn’t even there. I had to hear it from the third string jefa—thanks a lot.
I was leaving and wished everyone a good weekend and how I was excited to start pasting on Monday. Maria follows me out and says that Amalia told her I’m not allowed to use the wall we had originally planned to use. WHAT!?!?!?!
Amalia had given the “okay” over a month ago! I bought all the tiles over a month ago! I’ve been painting tiles with families for almost three weeks, and you tell me NOW, literally the last day I’ll be at el comedor PRIOR to starting the final step of the mural that I’m NOT allowed to use that wall?
I was so shocked with this news that my immediate reaction was in English, and I had to collect myself to ask “Why not?” And of course, Maria being the third-string, said she didn’t know and she was only relaying the message given to her by Amalia. Some nerve.
My two new wall options are as follows. One small wall inside the dining hall that has two windows in the middle—it would be physically impossible to put the mural there. The other option is to move all of the bookshelves standing against one of the walls and moving them to the other side and putting the mural on that wall. “But,” I said, “when we’re done pasting, the bookshelves will cover the entire mural!” Maria said they wouldn’t put the shelves back, and they would just stay on the other side. This could work if all three walls of the classroom weren’t already full of stuff—be it bookshelves or machinery or stacks of cardboard boxes filled with plastic tables bought by some previous volunteer that have yet to be used. Besides, the whole point of the mural was for the families to enjoy it while eating, and it wouldn’t be seen very often in the classroom. And I have no doubt in my mind, that eventually over time it would be covered up by paper or bookshelves, etc.
The original wall for the mural has never been used! There is nothing on that wall. Nothing. What could Amalia possibly need it for?
I am still shocked. I can’t believe she would do this, and so close to the end. It was a low blow.
So I’ve called Valeria who will consistently call Amalia all this weekend until she picks up her phone (of course, she didn’t pick up today, or else I would’ve already heard back). I will fight to the death for this if necessary. I cannot think of any reason that would prevent me from putting this mural up without some way around it. The only reason I can think of is that there are 2 or 3 very small hooks that we would have to remove in order to paste the tiles. If Amalia feels that strongly about those hooks, I will personally make sure new hooks are installed once the mural is done (I’ll even install them myself).
It’s unfortunate that such a great day (especially since the weather was so much better and the sun was out) ended with such miserable news. All I can do is wait. Like before, I should hope for the best and prepare for the worst. The only thing is, the worst could be that I can’t put up the mural at all, and the money and time spent on these tiles will be worthless and a waste of an entire summer. I can’t even process that.
To make it even worse, Amalia wasn’t there to give me the bad news (even though she was at el comedor yesterday). Mari, the other main jefa wasn’t even there. I had to hear it from the third string jefa—thanks a lot.
I was leaving and wished everyone a good weekend and how I was excited to start pasting on Monday. Maria follows me out and says that Amalia told her I’m not allowed to use the wall we had originally planned to use. WHAT!?!?!?!
Amalia had given the “okay” over a month ago! I bought all the tiles over a month ago! I’ve been painting tiles with families for almost three weeks, and you tell me NOW, literally the last day I’ll be at el comedor PRIOR to starting the final step of the mural that I’m NOT allowed to use that wall?
I was so shocked with this news that my immediate reaction was in English, and I had to collect myself to ask “Why not?” And of course, Maria being the third-string, said she didn’t know and she was only relaying the message given to her by Amalia. Some nerve.
My two new wall options are as follows. One small wall inside the dining hall that has two windows in the middle—it would be physically impossible to put the mural there. The other option is to move all of the bookshelves standing against one of the walls and moving them to the other side and putting the mural on that wall. “But,” I said, “when we’re done pasting, the bookshelves will cover the entire mural!” Maria said they wouldn’t put the shelves back, and they would just stay on the other side. This could work if all three walls of the classroom weren’t already full of stuff—be it bookshelves or machinery or stacks of cardboard boxes filled with plastic tables bought by some previous volunteer that have yet to be used. Besides, the whole point of the mural was for the families to enjoy it while eating, and it wouldn’t be seen very often in the classroom. And I have no doubt in my mind, that eventually over time it would be covered up by paper or bookshelves, etc.
The original wall for the mural has never been used! There is nothing on that wall. Nothing. What could Amalia possibly need it for?
I am still shocked. I can’t believe she would do this, and so close to the end. It was a low blow.
So I’ve called Valeria who will consistently call Amalia all this weekend until she picks up her phone (of course, she didn’t pick up today, or else I would’ve already heard back). I will fight to the death for this if necessary. I cannot think of any reason that would prevent me from putting this mural up without some way around it. The only reason I can think of is that there are 2 or 3 very small hooks that we would have to remove in order to paste the tiles. If Amalia feels that strongly about those hooks, I will personally make sure new hooks are installed once the mural is done (I’ll even install them myself).
It’s unfortunate that such a great day (especially since the weather was so much better and the sun was out) ended with such miserable news. All I can do is wait. Like before, I should hope for the best and prepare for the worst. The only thing is, the worst could be that I can’t put up the mural at all, and the money and time spent on these tiles will be worthless and a waste of an entire summer. I can’t even process that.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Synonyms for Wimp
Some people may have considered me a wimp today. But I like to think the terms “logical,” “realistic,” and “smart” are a better choice of words.
The wind has spoken. Today was stinkin’ cold. I knew it would be rough today, so I had leggings, pants, soccer socks, and four layers on top in addition to my jacket, gloves, scarf, and hat. I thought I was prepared. I was wrong. And I flaked out pretty early...
I got to el comedor earlier in order to stop by at least two houses today, instead of just one, which is what normally happens. With only today and tomorrow left to paint tiles, I want to let as many more kids as possible have the opportunity. Luckily I had met a mother yesterday who had offered her house, since Mari’s choice had fallen through.
I did make it to two houses and we painted 15 more tiles, but I was back at el comedor by 1pm (normally I don’t get back until 2:30 or 3). I could barely feel my legs, much less my fingers or nose. While I had painted with the kids inside of the houses, protection from the outdoors is minimal, and both families kept the door wide open—allowing in the freezing cold wind.
At el comedor I stood in front of the open fires to defrost, but as soon as I had finished eating and the cooking had stopped (which meant the fires were dead) I left. I felt a little guilty for leaving for early, but I got my daily tile work done and there was NO way I was gonna stand in the open air and freeze my ass off just to save face (what "face" I'm not really sure...).
On another note, I finally have a worker! It’s not Mari’s son since it turned out he wasn’t going to be able to help at all. So instead I have a very nice older man to help me out. We start next Monday at 11am sharp. And I only have about 30 more tiles to paint with the kids and I’ll be set and ready to paste! And I have two more houses scheduled to visit tomorrow.
I think we’ll be more than fine with a full week to make sure everything is done perfectly. Valeria is even coming on Monday to make sure things get started correctly. I’m getting really excited and I think the cooks are getting curious too. One mother even came into the classroom today when I returned from painting to look at all the tiles and ask when I was starting.
Also, today I got another look at just how poor this neighborhood is. Amalia came and set up a table for what appeared to be “registration” for the neighborhood’s residents. As each individual came to pick up food for their family, they had to write down their name, date of birth, D.N.I. (identity number), and sign their name. The first old man didn’t know how to read, write, or sign his name, so they used his fingerprint as a signature. In addition, as each family member gave the appropriate information, their “gift” for registering was a Lays bag of potato chips for each member of the family. I guess I had become so accustomed to the initial shock that the lunch meal is often all a family eats in a day, but that being given a small bag of potato chips is a luxury brings this neighborhood’s poverty full circle.
The wind has spoken. Today was stinkin’ cold. I knew it would be rough today, so I had leggings, pants, soccer socks, and four layers on top in addition to my jacket, gloves, scarf, and hat. I thought I was prepared. I was wrong. And I flaked out pretty early...
I got to el comedor earlier in order to stop by at least two houses today, instead of just one, which is what normally happens. With only today and tomorrow left to paint tiles, I want to let as many more kids as possible have the opportunity. Luckily I had met a mother yesterday who had offered her house, since Mari’s choice had fallen through.
I did make it to two houses and we painted 15 more tiles, but I was back at el comedor by 1pm (normally I don’t get back until 2:30 or 3). I could barely feel my legs, much less my fingers or nose. While I had painted with the kids inside of the houses, protection from the outdoors is minimal, and both families kept the door wide open—allowing in the freezing cold wind.
At el comedor I stood in front of the open fires to defrost, but as soon as I had finished eating and the cooking had stopped (which meant the fires were dead) I left. I felt a little guilty for leaving for early, but I got my daily tile work done and there was NO way I was gonna stand in the open air and freeze my ass off just to save face (what "face" I'm not really sure...).
On another note, I finally have a worker! It’s not Mari’s son since it turned out he wasn’t going to be able to help at all. So instead I have a very nice older man to help me out. We start next Monday at 11am sharp. And I only have about 30 more tiles to paint with the kids and I’ll be set and ready to paste! And I have two more houses scheduled to visit tomorrow.
I think we’ll be more than fine with a full week to make sure everything is done perfectly. Valeria is even coming on Monday to make sure things get started correctly. I’m getting really excited and I think the cooks are getting curious too. One mother even came into the classroom today when I returned from painting to look at all the tiles and ask when I was starting.
Also, today I got another look at just how poor this neighborhood is. Amalia came and set up a table for what appeared to be “registration” for the neighborhood’s residents. As each individual came to pick up food for their family, they had to write down their name, date of birth, D.N.I. (identity number), and sign their name. The first old man didn’t know how to read, write, or sign his name, so they used his fingerprint as a signature. In addition, as each family member gave the appropriate information, their “gift” for registering was a Lays bag of potato chips for each member of the family. I guess I had become so accustomed to the initial shock that the lunch meal is often all a family eats in a day, but that being given a small bag of potato chips is a luxury brings this neighborhood’s poverty full circle.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Windy Weather
Today’s weather was crazy. The entire city was covered in a cloud of windy dust, sticks and dirt. From el comedor, we couldn’t see the city below us. The cooks had to eat inside since embers were flying all around the outside kitchen. On the bus ride home I saw entire trees blocking the road (resulting in bus detours) and trees fallen on electric cables (resulting in power outages all around the city). Many stoplights weren’t working and the house I went to today to paint with kids as well as my own house lost power. Walking home, I held both hands over my face and could only see the ground immediately in front of my feet.
One of the mountains that you can see from my house and during the my entire walk home had caught fire, with huge clouds of smoke rising along the neighboring mountains. It was insane. Accordingly to Valeria, this means within the next few days it’s going to be VERY cold. Rumor has it that it might even snow! And it never snows here!
During this crazy wind, I was able to paint a handful more of tiles with a few adolescents (yay for variety), and if I’ve counted correctly, I only need the kids to paint about 35 more!
Unfortunately, the worker did not come today either. He happens to be the son of Mari (la jefa), which is good and bad. While it’s handy to have an easy source with which to communicate, I also have to limit my harassment of showing up so I don’t appear rude. I told Mari that what is most important is that we start putting up the tiles on Monday, and as long as he stops by (even briefly, since our meeting won’t take long) just once this week to go over the plan to see what we’re doing, it’ll be fine. But I’ve decided if he doesn’t come by Thursday, I’ll look for someone else. I don’t care whom I pay to help me, whether it’s a son of a cook or not, as long as it gets done on time.
One of the mountains that you can see from my house and during the my entire walk home had caught fire, with huge clouds of smoke rising along the neighboring mountains. It was insane. Accordingly to Valeria, this means within the next few days it’s going to be VERY cold. Rumor has it that it might even snow! And it never snows here!
During this crazy wind, I was able to paint a handful more of tiles with a few adolescents (yay for variety), and if I’ve counted correctly, I only need the kids to paint about 35 more!
Unfortunately, the worker did not come today either. He happens to be the son of Mari (la jefa), which is good and bad. While it’s handy to have an easy source with which to communicate, I also have to limit my harassment of showing up so I don’t appear rude. I told Mari that what is most important is that we start putting up the tiles on Monday, and as long as he stops by (even briefly, since our meeting won’t take long) just once this week to go over the plan to see what we’re doing, it’ll be fine. But I’ve decided if he doesn’t come by Thursday, I’ll look for someone else. I don’t care whom I pay to help me, whether it’s a son of a cook or not, as long as it gets done on time.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Feliz Dia del Amigo
Actually, today is an International Holiday. It is Friend Day (El Dia del Amigo). Although I’ve never heard of it, nor have I celebrated it in the U.S., it appears to be a big deal here, and we had a small fiesta at el comedor (food, CocaCola, wine) in addition to our little game.
We changed our “amigo invisible” because two of the participants dropped out. This time I picked Elva, which is actually perfect. She was the first mother and cook to truly break the ice and has always been very sweet, asking me questions about my time here, where I’ve traveled to, what I study, everything.
Also, this past week I went to her house to paint tiles with her kids. Using the term “kids” may be an understatement, as I think “breeding ground” might be a little more appropriate. Elva, nicknamed “La Gorda” for her obvious appearance, has seven daughters. The sixth is 12 (which I found out when she accompanied me back to el comedor after painting), so I assume the seventh is probably 10. She has un monton de nietos (grandchildren). Ironically, with seven daughters, almost all of the grandkids are boys—there had to have been at least 8, if not more. And they all live in the same house that has a total of two small rooms with multiple bunk beds.
She was extremely inviting and even fed me lunch, even though normally I would go back to el comedor to eat after a painting excursion. Having her as my “amigo invisible” is perfect, as it will be my way of thanking her for her welcoming generosity.
I’ve decided to give her a gift that is specifically for her. With so many kids running around, I doubt she ever has time or money to buy anything for herself. I actually found a necklace that Laura made which is simple but very beautiful (and I even got a great discount since I know the maker!).
We don’t find out who our “amigo invisible” is, but we thank everyone and wish every one a Feliz Dia del Amigo! Elva seemed to really like her necklace! But I think I’ll write her a “secret” note tonight explaining its significance and how she isn’t allowed to lend it to her daughters! It was fun and I was able to have an excuse to take pictures to have memories of all the wonderful women I’ve met at el comedor. I am altogether very happy that the swine flu caused a temporary shutdown of the classroom allowing me this time to get to know the women who run the place.
I was supposed to meet the worker today—but of course, as society is here, everything runs slower—so the meeting has been delayed until tomorrow. Valeria and I will take a taxi to haul all of the remaining tiles to el comedor in the morning and go through the blueprints with the worker (IF all goes according to plan, which it never seems to).
We changed our “amigo invisible” because two of the participants dropped out. This time I picked Elva, which is actually perfect. She was the first mother and cook to truly break the ice and has always been very sweet, asking me questions about my time here, where I’ve traveled to, what I study, everything.
Also, this past week I went to her house to paint tiles with her kids. Using the term “kids” may be an understatement, as I think “breeding ground” might be a little more appropriate. Elva, nicknamed “La Gorda” for her obvious appearance, has seven daughters. The sixth is 12 (which I found out when she accompanied me back to el comedor after painting), so I assume the seventh is probably 10. She has un monton de nietos (grandchildren). Ironically, with seven daughters, almost all of the grandkids are boys—there had to have been at least 8, if not more. And they all live in the same house that has a total of two small rooms with multiple bunk beds.
She was extremely inviting and even fed me lunch, even though normally I would go back to el comedor to eat after a painting excursion. Having her as my “amigo invisible” is perfect, as it will be my way of thanking her for her welcoming generosity.
I’ve decided to give her a gift that is specifically for her. With so many kids running around, I doubt she ever has time or money to buy anything for herself. I actually found a necklace that Laura made which is simple but very beautiful (and I even got a great discount since I know the maker!).
We don’t find out who our “amigo invisible” is, but we thank everyone and wish every one a Feliz Dia del Amigo! Elva seemed to really like her necklace! But I think I’ll write her a “secret” note tonight explaining its significance and how she isn’t allowed to lend it to her daughters! It was fun and I was able to have an excuse to take pictures to have memories of all the wonderful women I’ve met at el comedor. I am altogether very happy that the swine flu caused a temporary shutdown of the classroom allowing me this time to get to know the women who run the place.
I was supposed to meet the worker today—but of course, as society is here, everything runs slower—so the meeting has been delayed until tomorrow. Valeria and I will take a taxi to haul all of the remaining tiles to el comedor in the morning and go through the blueprints with the worker (IF all goes according to plan, which it never seems to).
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Que linda el viaje a Cachi
Today was a marvelous day! It was a great choice to pay extra for an excursion package!
It started out with a 6:30am wake up to be on the bus at 7. The excursion convoy (combi en español) picked up another 14 passengers at a hotel. I found out they are part of a group of 54 people all from la provinicia de Entre Rios on a weeklong trip to various sites in Northern Argentina. It took awhile to break the ice, being the only outsider, but they all eventually learned my story and seemed to enjoy listening to my adventure at el comedor and my opportunity to be in Argentina and travel. I sat with two middle-aged women during a scrumptious lunch in a small pueblo near Cachi called Payogasta. We chatted about the importance of leaving one’s comfort zone and they were very curious about my work at the soup kitchen.
We only spent less than an hour in the actual pueblo of Cachi itself, to see the church, which has an entire interior made of cactus wood. They cut the cactus down and let it sit out for six months to dry out, and your left with wood! There was also a museum with engraved stones from the indigenous populations way back when. But it was the trip there that was actually the most amazing part. We passed through at least five different types of terrain on the 157 km trip. It started with the flat farms on the outskirts of Salta, turning into subtropical dense forest, then becoming mountains with little vegetation, then mountains with no vegetation but just sheets of different colored rocks that changed color depending on the time of day (the route to and from was very different). Then it changed to huge mountains with snow, then mountains with cacti, then flat land with cacti. The change was amazing. At one point, within a span of 20 km, we climbed 1,000m in altitude.
We stopped at various locations to take pictures of this gorgeous terrain, especially at el Parque Nacional Los Cardones and el Cuesto del Obispo.
The only setback was that one of the other combis got a flat tire and was 20 km behind us. We didn’t find out about it until we stopped at our halfway point rest stop. Our group got to stand out in the cold for over an hour while our driver Marcelo went to find the other combi and give them a spare tire to change. They did have a spare tire, but I guess that had used it for a previous excursion that also got a flat tire. It delayed our trip awhile, but we amused ourselves with the two llamas that were there for tourists to take pictures with and joking we’d hijack the llamas and ride back to Salta.
Overall it was a wonderful trip. I even got applause from the bus at the end for my work so far here in Salta and wishing me luck with the rest of it and continuing on in life. This is a trip I’ll never forget.
It started out with a 6:30am wake up to be on the bus at 7. The excursion convoy (combi en español) picked up another 14 passengers at a hotel. I found out they are part of a group of 54 people all from la provinicia de Entre Rios on a weeklong trip to various sites in Northern Argentina. It took awhile to break the ice, being the only outsider, but they all eventually learned my story and seemed to enjoy listening to my adventure at el comedor and my opportunity to be in Argentina and travel. I sat with two middle-aged women during a scrumptious lunch in a small pueblo near Cachi called Payogasta. We chatted about the importance of leaving one’s comfort zone and they were very curious about my work at the soup kitchen.
We only spent less than an hour in the actual pueblo of Cachi itself, to see the church, which has an entire interior made of cactus wood. They cut the cactus down and let it sit out for six months to dry out, and your left with wood! There was also a museum with engraved stones from the indigenous populations way back when. But it was the trip there that was actually the most amazing part. We passed through at least five different types of terrain on the 157 km trip. It started with the flat farms on the outskirts of Salta, turning into subtropical dense forest, then becoming mountains with little vegetation, then mountains with no vegetation but just sheets of different colored rocks that changed color depending on the time of day (the route to and from was very different). Then it changed to huge mountains with snow, then mountains with cacti, then flat land with cacti. The change was amazing. At one point, within a span of 20 km, we climbed 1,000m in altitude.
We stopped at various locations to take pictures of this gorgeous terrain, especially at el Parque Nacional Los Cardones and el Cuesto del Obispo.
The only setback was that one of the other combis got a flat tire and was 20 km behind us. We didn’t find out about it until we stopped at our halfway point rest stop. Our group got to stand out in the cold for over an hour while our driver Marcelo went to find the other combi and give them a spare tire to change. They did have a spare tire, but I guess that had used it for a previous excursion that also got a flat tire. It delayed our trip awhile, but we amused ourselves with the two llamas that were there for tourists to take pictures with and joking we’d hijack the llamas and ride back to Salta.
Overall it was a wonderful trip. I even got applause from the bus at the end for my work so far here in Salta and wishing me luck with the rest of it and continuing on in life. This is a trip I’ll never forget.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
No quiero casas ni arboles ni montañas
“I want another tile”
“Okay, what’s your idea? What are you going to paint?”
“A house.”
“I said no houses. We have too many houses.”
“A tree.”
“I said no trees.”
“Then I don’t know.”
“Well, think about it, draw it out on paper, and then maybe we’ll paint a tile”
This is the translated version of a majority of the conversations I held with the kids today. The mothers helped me set up a makeshift table out on the field across the street from el comedor. We thought more kids might be able to paint if we did it near el comedor. Bad idea.
I did have the regulars show up, and they hadn’t yet had the opportunity to paint tiles, but it was a huge group—about 15 kids running around, asking for markers, paper, tiles, everything. When I tried to help one kid, the others literally climbed all over me begging for attention or another tile. I had to turn down so many kids because they either didn’t have any imaginative or new ideas for a tile painting or had no ideas at all. I finally got a few to expand their minds and we painted a total of 44 tiles (a record for a day), but it was very stressful.
I asked the mothers that I go back to going to individual homes, especially since that way we can have more adolescents paint, and get a larger variety of artistic expression. Also, then I’m not stuck with a hundred tiles painted by the same 12 or 15 kids.
“Okay, what’s your idea? What are you going to paint?”
“A house.”
“I said no houses. We have too many houses.”
“A tree.”
“I said no trees.”
“Then I don’t know.”
“Well, think about it, draw it out on paper, and then maybe we’ll paint a tile”
This is the translated version of a majority of the conversations I held with the kids today. The mothers helped me set up a makeshift table out on the field across the street from el comedor. We thought more kids might be able to paint if we did it near el comedor. Bad idea.
I did have the regulars show up, and they hadn’t yet had the opportunity to paint tiles, but it was a huge group—about 15 kids running around, asking for markers, paper, tiles, everything. When I tried to help one kid, the others literally climbed all over me begging for attention or another tile. I had to turn down so many kids because they either didn’t have any imaginative or new ideas for a tile painting or had no ideas at all. I finally got a few to expand their minds and we painted a total of 44 tiles (a record for a day), but it was very stressful.
I asked the mothers that I go back to going to individual homes, especially since that way we can have more adolescents paint, and get a larger variety of artistic expression. Also, then I’m not stuck with a hundred tiles painted by the same 12 or 15 kids.
Unofficially Salteña
I few things have happened in the past few days that I will take to be signs I can unofficially consider myself a Salteña. Since officially, it’s impossible for me to be born here in Salta.
First, a woman asked me for directions concerning the bus schedule and the bus destinations. Although my answer was “I don’t know,” I obviously appeared to be comfortable enough in my surroundings and approachable enough to ask for such directions.
Second, I stood in a line. I mentioned previously Argentinians love of lines, especially outside of banks, for as long as three blocks. I had to go to the bank, and since they are only open until 1pm or so, going in the morning before el comedor was my only option. I woke up extra early hoping to beat the rush and arrived at 8:40am to find out the bank didn’t actually open until 9am. A line had already formed outside, so I decided to wait. I waited for 25 minutes before being let in, and went upstairs (where you needed to go to exchange traveler’s checks) to stand in yet another line for another 30 minutes. It took over an hour altogether and I even had to take a taxi home in order to grab my book bag and run to the bus station to catch the bus to el comedor. It wasn’t the most rewarding or cultural experience, but at least now I know what many Argentinians go through on a daily basis.
Lastly, I have joined the inner circle of the mothers at el comedor. I was invited to participate in the game “Amigo Invisible,” known to us Americans as “Secret Santa.” I need to bring a regalito on Monday for Adriana—the only problem being, I don’t know who Adriana is. I cheated a little and asked Mari, the head woman, if tomorrow she could point Adriana out for me (since she wasn’t here today). I feel so special to be able to participate in their game!
Also, I get a strong feeling of satisfaction when I set up my day trip excursions at different tourist agencies and I’m asked what hotel I’m staying at. I have a home address to give—demonstrating my stay isn’t as temporary as just any tourist.
The only thing I’m missing is a Gaucho poncho. This is a red and black poncho worn by the soldiers back in the day. But I don’t think I plan to go quite that far…
First, a woman asked me for directions concerning the bus schedule and the bus destinations. Although my answer was “I don’t know,” I obviously appeared to be comfortable enough in my surroundings and approachable enough to ask for such directions.
Second, I stood in a line. I mentioned previously Argentinians love of lines, especially outside of banks, for as long as three blocks. I had to go to the bank, and since they are only open until 1pm or so, going in the morning before el comedor was my only option. I woke up extra early hoping to beat the rush and arrived at 8:40am to find out the bank didn’t actually open until 9am. A line had already formed outside, so I decided to wait. I waited for 25 minutes before being let in, and went upstairs (where you needed to go to exchange traveler’s checks) to stand in yet another line for another 30 minutes. It took over an hour altogether and I even had to take a taxi home in order to grab my book bag and run to the bus station to catch the bus to el comedor. It wasn’t the most rewarding or cultural experience, but at least now I know what many Argentinians go through on a daily basis.
Lastly, I have joined the inner circle of the mothers at el comedor. I was invited to participate in the game “Amigo Invisible,” known to us Americans as “Secret Santa.” I need to bring a regalito on Monday for Adriana—the only problem being, I don’t know who Adriana is. I cheated a little and asked Mari, the head woman, if tomorrow she could point Adriana out for me (since she wasn’t here today). I feel so special to be able to participate in their game!
Also, I get a strong feeling of satisfaction when I set up my day trip excursions at different tourist agencies and I’m asked what hotel I’m staying at. I have a home address to give—demonstrating my stay isn’t as temporary as just any tourist.
The only thing I’m missing is a Gaucho poncho. This is a red and black poncho worn by the soldiers back in the day. But I don’t think I plan to go quite that far…
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Valeria's Last Stand
Recent news has brought to my attention that after I leave Salta, Valeria will step down from her position as Volunteer Coordinator for HelpArgentina in Salta. This presents a few problems. First, HelpArgentina will not likely hire another coordinator, unless they can convince Amalia to be the middle-woman for incoming volunteers (which is unlikely, since it’s impossible to get in touch with her and she’s always insanely busy with other work). This means that Salta may not be seeing volunteers for quite awhile. This could mean that I am the last volunteer el comedor will see in a few years…
Now, this is all hypothetical, but if this does happen, it makes me all the happier that I’m doing this mural. This will last so much longer than English classes or more books or stuffed animal tomatoes ever could. It’ll (ideally) be aesthetically pleasing and brighten up the dining hall for all the families that come to eat. It’ll also be a memory for these kids years down the road to see what they had painted years before.
I joked with Valeria how grateful I was that she decided to stick around just for me as the last volunteer, but I think her decision deals primarily with money. Salta doesn’t see a regular influx of volunteers, so her schedule depends solely on people showing up. She owns her own clothing store and runs that throughout the week, and has recently started a job at the customer service desk at the mall, which requires her to work all week (including weekends). Jon Teel, the coordinator in Buenos Aires had a partner to level out his work, however as of a year ago, the partner left and was never replaced. Thus, Jon has taken on the responsibilities of two coordinators and maintaining contact with EVERY volunteer in Argentina.
I hope this doesn’t mean that HelpArgentina will start to minimize its staff to the point where only Buenos Aires is accessible for future volunteers. I was thinking about writing down notes to create a mini handbook for future volunteers in Salta so that they are at least semi-prepared upon arrival (unlike me). But is it worth it? What’s the future for HelpArgentina?
Now, this is all hypothetical, but if this does happen, it makes me all the happier that I’m doing this mural. This will last so much longer than English classes or more books or stuffed animal tomatoes ever could. It’ll (ideally) be aesthetically pleasing and brighten up the dining hall for all the families that come to eat. It’ll also be a memory for these kids years down the road to see what they had painted years before.
I joked with Valeria how grateful I was that she decided to stick around just for me as the last volunteer, but I think her decision deals primarily with money. Salta doesn’t see a regular influx of volunteers, so her schedule depends solely on people showing up. She owns her own clothing store and runs that throughout the week, and has recently started a job at the customer service desk at the mall, which requires her to work all week (including weekends). Jon Teel, the coordinator in Buenos Aires had a partner to level out his work, however as of a year ago, the partner left and was never replaced. Thus, Jon has taken on the responsibilities of two coordinators and maintaining contact with EVERY volunteer in Argentina.
I hope this doesn’t mean that HelpArgentina will start to minimize its staff to the point where only Buenos Aires is accessible for future volunteers. I was thinking about writing down notes to create a mini handbook for future volunteers in Salta so that they are at least semi-prepared upon arrival (unlike me). But is it worth it? What’s the future for HelpArgentina?
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