recent thoughts....

I really am happy to be back home and it is exciting to be able to wear all of my winter clothing and walk in the crisp chilly weather. But today I feel solemn. I don't understand how it is that I was so excited to come home and now that I am at home I feel like a part of me is missing. I don't get it.

It is not like I am aching to go back to Mexico because it feels right to be here but I just feel like my thoughts are somewhere else. I feel distracted. I feel not wholly me. I don't like this feeling and I hope that it is not as obvious to those around me.

And... I really miss speaking Spanish. I already feel like I am losing it. And that scares me. (sigh) I just don't know what I feel...

a day in violet´s shoes...

So I figure the least I could do for all of my faithful readers is write about my remaining days and the adventures they contain. Here goes....

Yesterday as I peered at my closet I realized that the only remaining clean clothing that I had was a pair of slacks and a little sweater. It is probably one of my favorite outfits and I reassured myself that I would most certainly make sure to make room for it in and amongst all of the gifts I am bringing back.

I decided a pink and brown combo would be perfect for the gloomy weather outside (a unusual sight in Cuernavaca). Anways.... running low on time I just decided to put mousse in my hair and be on the run. Well... when I looked in the mirror two hours later I happened to detect that half of my hair was in pretty curls while the other side was one giant poof ball. I put it past me convinced myself that I could just tell people that I accidently put my finger in a light socket that morning. But luckily, nobody asked.

Anyways... after classes Kristine and I went to town. She then departed and left me alone to do some errands. As I was walking towards one of the main streets I noticed that the sidewalk was a little sketchy and that a police car had parked a bit close. But... I figured that I could squeeze through, no biggy. As I began to pass through I felt may pants being tugged I turned around to see a few men nearby and half of my rear end being exposed. Don't worry... I was wearing pretty panties. I quickly pulled up my pants and unsnagged them from the fence that had caught them. I decided to try passing through again so as to not have to turn around to face those I had flashed. As I began walking again this fence began to fall and tugged on my pants harder pulling them down further. I tried to hold up my pants while unsnagging them, ignoring the looks that were happening around me. After unsagging my pants the whole fence just fell on the police car and I quickly scrambled around as to not be seen and pretend like nothing happened. Needless to say that my pants got torn and I will not be bringing them back with me. =(

After my errands I decided to take a taxi to my house because it was raining and I didn't really feel like squishing in the bus with all the bags I had to carry. After I quicly ate lunch I hustled to meet Kristine at the church. As I was walking down the street I happened to look up and see a bird just as it began to drop some droppings. I quickly moved to the other side of the street to keep my distance. But I thought about it, how often to you see birds going to the bathroom. haha.... that was strange.

I don't know what it was but yesterday I swear that the majority of the men I crossed paths with checked me out from head-to-toe. It really hasn't been that obvious to me in my time here but yesterday it was definitely obvious. Especially when a truck drove by that contained like 20 men standing in the back. They did their catcalls and told me they loved me all the while me trying to give them the fiercest glare possible. But when I furrowed up my eyebrows they just laughed out loud and I found a smile sweeping across my face as well.

Well..... I did survive yesterday even though I almost got hit by a car. hehehe.... =) Oh.... I forgot to mention the most awkward experience I have had yet with a taxi driver. Oh well. Time is running short and I must get going. I do hope that you get a laugh out of this as I most certainly did.

Kristine and I will be flying in at 11pm on Saturday. Please pray for safe travel and that the next few days go smoothly as we begin to say goodbye. Over a week ago I was super excited to come home and I even started talking to my host mom in English. But now... it is sinking in that in a few days I will be saying goodbye to people who have loved me that I may never have the chance to see again. Anyways.... thank you thank you for your love and support!

it's already that time of year, again???

Dear Friends and Family!!!

I told you that I would write come Monday. Aren't you proud??? I so cannot believe it. It's almost December and in 13 days I will be home. I sat in disbelief Friday morning as I waited for Kristine. I was greeted by a sweet pine scent.... her family had already decorated for Christmas. I sat on the couch looking at the decorations and then I stared outside to where the sun was already beating down. And yesterday as we left hot and muggy Acapulco, I caught a glimpse of a gigantic Christmas tree in the center of town covered with Coca cola decorations. Well.... it truly is that time of year again, but it really has been a bit weird to see Christmas decorations up when it seems as if it were summer. I am glad that I will be home to cold rainy Oregon where I will be able to cuddle up with my family and friends and sip hot cocoa and enjoy the cold but jolly season.

Well... I told you all that I would write about my adventure to Acapulco but there really is not a whole lot to tell. My weekend consisted of laying on the beach, drinking way to many pina coladas and swimming. It was hot and muggy and at times I really wondered why I take a liking to basking in the sun. But after dipping in the ocean I felt ready to endure the blazing sun again. Acapulco really is not that pretty of a city but it's beaches are gorgeous and it was amazing to be waited on hand and foot while sunbathing. The picture below describes our weekend in a nutshell. There were a few other events but yeah.... I don't know of how much interest they are to you!!!

Knock on Wood

Sooo.... it is late right now. And as I write I look around my room wide eyed every ten seconds to make sure no critter has made it's way near me. I feel the need to share this with you, seeing that my blogging will soon come to an end when I arrive home in two weeks.

So, I tried going to bed at eleven, and as many of you know (past roommates) I have no trouble falling asleep. The minute my head hits the pillow I am out. Well... after about 20 minutes of just tossing and turning and letting my thoughts go wild I thought I might as well get up and do some homework.

As I opened my laptop I happened to look up and see a giant spider that was a good 2-3 inches in diameter. I gasped for air and ran out of my room. By then it was already 11:30 but I couldn't bare the thought of entering my room again, let alone killing the spider. Soooo.... I made my way upstairs and was lucky to encounter my parents only half asleep. My mom made her way down stairs, found some insecticide and grabbed a broom. I waited outside my room.

A few minutes later, she presented me with the bad news that she had not killed it but she sprayed insecticide and for that reason it would soon be dead. She told me, well, "Usually during this time we have scorpions, so it's good that we haven't encountered any of those." I nodded my head in agreement.

Anyways... my mom left the broom for me and I laid it at the side of my bed. Ready to defend myself from any bug that dare enter my territory. Anyways... I got to writing and then all of the sudden I looked up to see what??? A scorpion crawling down my wall of cards. I thought..... oh great. She has already gone to bed and there is no way I'm going back up to say that I encountered another bug. So with my broom I began to beat the bug and after about 10 hits I finally smashed the scorpion to pieces. Feeling quite proud of my accomplishment I retreated back to my computer to work. Then I heard foot steps. "Que paso, Violeta?" It was my mom, she had heard me beating the bug and came down to see what the matter was. I kinda laughed and told her about my accomplishment. She checked the floor and after searching and finding the mutilated bug, she indeed confirmed it as a scorpion.

Anyways... I thought it was funny. And... just so you know. I just came face to face with that giant spider who did NOT die from the insecticide. I think the only one affected by it was me! Anyhow, I began to beat that spider, too. But it was too fast for me. It began to run back into my room and since I knew I would not be able to kill it with one shot I thrust it across the room where it scrambled under a couch. Well, at least I know that I won't be sleeping with that spider tonight, that is... if I do sleep.

oNly 3 wEekS!!!

Wow, I can hardly believe it! Kristine and I only have three more weeks here in Mexico even though it seems as though we just arrived. Last night I had both Kristine and Cecilia over for a sleepover and Cecilia was telling us how much she was going to miss us. I will miss her as well, but this past week the realization came to me that I think I am going to be ready to go home. I love it here in Mexico. Don't get me wrong. But I have so much to look forward to upon my return and I guess I'm just starting to see some of the things about this culture that kind of annoy me.

I am definitely looking forward to the next three weeks and all that is in store and I know that it will be hard to say goodbye, but I also know that that nervous excited feeling is going to come over me as Kristine and I enter PDX. I cannot wait to see the faces of those I love so dearly and begin to share my experiences face to face. Although it is difficult to see what growth I have made here, I know that this experience will leave me changed. This time here in Mexico has truly been a blessing to me. I have been renewed and I feel refreshed and ready for what lies ahead.

Anyways.... I don't have any exciting stories to share. I've just been up to my usual routine. But, yesterday I did go to the city market with Soco. I guess I can share this story with you. It is not that exciting but I got a laugh out of it because it just goes to show how brainless I am at times. =) We wandered around the market and gathered all that we needed. Then Soco offered me a drink at a little juice station. She pointed to a big barrel that said "Cerveza de Raiz." For those of you who are unaware, "Cerveza" is beer. My eyes got really wide and she immediately told me that it did not contain alcohol. I nodded my head in agreement although I was racking my brain to figure out what the heck this drink was. When I took the first sip I was pleasantly greeted by a sweet flavor. Soco and I ended up chilling in the car for awhile enjoying our "cerveza" and some dried bananas. I really didn't think too much about the drink the rest of the day, but then, today it all of the sudden came to me. I was drinking "Root Beer." Or so that is the conclusion I reached. But I just contemplated for a minute and thought how funny it would be if I offered a friend from another country "Root Beer" and then to see their eyes get really big as if it were a sin to say the word. Hahaha..... oh how funny it most have seemed to Soco.

Well.... this next weekend Kristine and I will be spending the weekend at the beach. And Ramiro, the director, was so kind as to permit our friend Candy to accompany us. Her and her family will be taking us. Anyways, I'm super excited and I will be sure to update you come next Monday!

where shall I begin???

Well friends, November has now arrived and I am on the homestretch. It is so hard to believe that I only have four more weeks left here in Mexico. It makes me sad and yet excited to think about coming home. It makes me sad to think of the friendships I am leaving behind and yet excited for the opportunities that lay ahead of me. Although I don't know how I will do it, I am very excited to get back into the busy routine as a college student. And I believe that the moment I step off the plane and feel the cold winter chill seep in, I will be thrust into the reality that I am no longer on vacation. Technically I am not on vacation at the moment, but... the warm, sunny weather seems to keep me in summer mood. Which sadly, has affected my school performance here. Although I would love to go to school where it is sunny all the time I believe it would have a serious impact on my studies. I never thought I would say that I was thankful for rainy days. But, for the sake of my academics I am thankful that I live in Oregon where there are many rainy days. =) The first photo is me with my friend, Candy. And the above, is my current teacher, Ana Maria. We decided to take a little break from class to work on our photogenic-ness! =)

So much has happened in the last couple of weeks and I have not shared any of it. Please do forgive me! Okay, here goes....

Back to Halloween, October 31st. Here in Mexico, traditionally Halloween in not celebrated. But sadly, as many Mexicans say, the US has influenced Mexico and now, as of about 7 or 8 years ago, the youth have begun to dress up and go door to door asking for treats. The youth go door to door starting on the 31st and ending on the 2nd of November. Here in Mexico, "El Dia de los Muertos" is celebrated. Translated into English would be, "Day of the Dead." November 1st and 2nd are very important days in remembering the deceased. Families put together "Ofrendas" or "Offerings," for their deceased loved ones. They place flowers, photos, food, candles and much more on the offerings and then after the 2nd they take the food that has been collected and divide it up and give it to their neighbors. Sadly, this once strong tradition is now kind of fading out. Not that many people take it as seriously and if they do celebrate it, it is to a much lesser degree. My host mom put up an offering for her parents, her sister and my host dad's little brother. It was very small and simple, but part of the tradition.

On November 1st, Kristine and I were blessed with the news that after our first hour of class we would be going to the city market to collect some items to place an offering for Emiliano Zapata, a Mexican hero. We were in the middle of a test when Irma approached us and insisted that we go. Kristine and I eagerly accepted, gleeful to postpone our test-taking. =)

The market was swarming with people. It was so much fun! We wandered around and picked out fruit and candy to place on the offering. The only not so fun part was when we walked through the meat section and I turned around only to be faced by a hanging pig's head. Ohhh..... yuck! I can't stand the meat section of the market! Anyhow, here is a picture of another head just hanging around. Below are the pig's feet.

After buying fruit and candy we made our way to the flower section. Traditionally, these flowers that Kristine and I are holding are placed on the offering. We wandered around the flower section for almost a half hour seeking out the best flowers although they were all the same. Finally, Irma just let us choose and we were on our way. Irma shared with us that sometimes when students leave Universal they like to buy their teachers flowers. She said that on more than one occasion students have bought these flowers. Usually the teachers just say thank you for the thought and kind of shudder because these are flowers for the dead! hahaha So, here are Kristine and I holding flowers for the dead! =) And here we also are arranging the flowers to make the cross for the offering. The flowers were kind of stinky.... Above, you can see the offering that Kristine and I put together. Sadly, we took so much time at the market and putting together the offering that we didn't get to attend our classes. =) But... we still had to finish the tests that were scheduled for the day.

The following day Kristine and I headed off to Puebla, accompanied by Ramiro, the school director, and Esteban, another student. Friday we stopped in Cholula, Puebla and visited one of the oldest pyramids that dates back to one of the five mother cultures, the Olmecas. The pyramid dates back to before Christ. The pyramid was unlike any other we have seen. In actuality, it is three pyramids. And although much of the pyramid has been destroyed we were able to explore the second pyramid through tunnels. Here I am at the right. =) It was really exciting to think that thousands of years before, a culture that I learned about had been occupying this area.

After arriving in the colonial town, Puebla, we were released to venture off and do as we wished. Kristine and I decided to rest up a little and I must share this one story to admit how awful we are. Kristine insisted that I figure out how to turn on the lights in our room so that she could use the bathroom. So, I ventured off into the hall to find someone who could assist me. One of the maids kindly showed me that all I had to do was do one flick of the switch and then the whole room had lighting. As she left the room I saw that Esteban was just standing in the hallway. I thought, hmmm... that's weird. Oh, well. And as I closed the door I shot him a little smirk. Kristine and I rested up and played around on our computers but after about 40 minutes we received a knock on our door. Kristine opened it to find Esteban asking if we were going to be doing anything that afternoon. Not realizing or believing that he had actually been waiting all that time for us, we giggled, grabbed our stuff and accompanied him to the market. This was the only time the three of us actually hung out together during our free time. Personally, one afternoon was enough with him. And since I think I took so much time shopping, he realized that he may have been better off on his own. =) Anyways..... he'll be accompanying us to Acapulco in a couple of weeks and I just hope that it is not completely awkward since the majority of that trip will be sunbathing on the beach.

Anyhow, Saturday morning was filled with boring museums. Uh-hum... I mean interesting museums. =) And that afternoon Ramiro again, allotted us free time. Kristine and I decided to wander around the Zocalo first as to avoid the possibility of running into Esteban. Then we returned to the hotel to freshen up and head to the market again. On our way to the market we encountered a small strip of vendors and spent some time there. We also ran into a henna tattoo station and decided to get tattoos. Here I am at the left with my tattoo artist. It was a really good opportunity to practice our Spanish because we were surrounded by young men. Actually, we met two young men at the station who we ended up spending the evening with. That is another story, for another time. =)

Surprisingly, the men always showed up late to our meeting times. Kristine and I would spend like 5 minutes waiting on this blue couch that would suck you in the moment you sat down. And since 5 minutes is soooo much time to wait, we usually pulled out the camera to document our moods. Here, Kristine and I took this photo to show Ramiro how angry we were. Just kidding! But I do look angry, don't I? haha

On Sunday, we had planned to visit an Animal Safari, but after talking to Ramiro and Esteban and them being really excited that the Chivas were going to be playing in Puebla, Kristine and I decided that one soccer game wouldn't hurt us. So, on Sunday we headed off to the stadium to cheer on the Chivas. The Chivas is the most popular, professional soccer team because they are the ONLY team with all Mexican players. When Kristine and I arrived we decided that we should probably sport some team spirit. So we wandered around in search of the perfect attire. Ramiro was so impatient to enter the stadium and get good seats that he just handed us our tickets and told us he would see us after the game. Kristine and I found our team spirit attire and arrived 45 minutes later only to discover that Ramiro and Esteban were sitting virtually alone in their section. Yeah, there were people but not so many as to be in a rush. So really, Kristine and I could have probably spent more time wandering around outside the stadium. Instead, we sat with Ramiro and Esteban as the sun beat down for two hours prior to the start of the game. The game was actually quite interesting. The only thing that drove me crazy was the fact that there were absolutely NO garbage cans. People were just tossing their garbage on the ground and I couldn't even get the courage to gently set my garbage down in a pile on the ground. Instead, Kristine and I carried our garbage around until we were told that we couldn't enter the stadium with all that garbage. Duh! We didn't want to. Anyway.. we were directed to like the ONLY garbage can in the entire stadium. Whew!!!

Anyways... life back here in Cuernavaca is just as exciting! Our weeks are filled with classes, aerobics and hanging out with friends. This week I decided to do something kind of random and crazy. I went with my host sister who has lots of piercings and pierced my tragus. For those of you who don't know this official term you may better recognize this definition offered by one of my good friends, "little ear flap thing." lol... Many people have asked me if it hurt and to be completely honest, I think it hurt less than my other piercings. Kristine and my sister came with me to document the event and here is the result, the picture at the left! I was a bit nervous but it hardly hurt at all!

Here at the right is my good friend, Soco. She is, as many of you know, my aerobics teacher. God has really blessed me with this friendship. I really could have never imagined even being friends with her. Considering that I am probably one of her worst alumnas and that she intimidated the heck out of me. But, the friendship I have with her is a really special one. She invites me over to her house a lot and we have shared some really good intimate conversations along with some outbursts of laughter. Sadly, I leave the day of her "Boda de plata," a celebration of 25 years of marriage. But I really do believe that of all my friendships I have formed here, this will be one that I continue to pursue.

This evening I got to thinking... my closest friends here, the friends that I tell most anything to, are all older. I probably spend more time with my older friends than I do with friends my age. Yeah... I have probably turned up some really good opportunities to form friendships with other youth, for example: turning down my sister's offer to go out with her and her friends to a bar. Actually it was more like pleading... but, instead here I am writing. I know that some of you may look on this with suspicion as some do here but I would like to take a moment and explain myself.

I'm not really considered "normal" here. Most students that come down from the U.S. party it up. They don't have a problem going out and dancing and drinking. I have been faced with this temptation more than once. I would love to say that this has never sounded appealing to me, but it has! I am a youth and I do live in the 21 century where all of these activities are looked on with approval. The fact that I don't do these things, sets me apart. And sometimes, I don't really want to be set apart. I would love to go out with my sister tonight, but I fear that if I partake in these activities, I may find them appealing and so, rather than putting myself in that position, I have chosen to stay home, I have chosen to accept lunch invitations from the women in our aerobics class rather than going dancing. Anyways, all this to say that yes, I do have friends my age but I spend more time with my older friends. I still get the questions and the pressure to go out and be a kid, but that is a lot more easy to manage than actually being with a group at a bar or something.

Well friends, I will attempt to be better about updating but I most certainly hope that you have enjoyed what you've read! =)

And to see more pictures just check out this link! http://www.flickr.com/photos/princesavioleta/

i aM aLIvE!!!

Hi friends and Family!!! Currently I am in Puebla for the weekend and I will inform you of all my exciting adventures come Monday. But this blog post is way overdue and I thought that if anything I should at least post the pics! (your welcome dad)

Life is good! Kristine and I have been up to a lot this last week. Last weekend we visited Mexico City! Here we are at the left with a walking dead person on stilts! haha... Not funny, I know. Bear with me though....

We visited the Dolores Olmedo Museum and enjoyed taking pictures in the garden. I think that the guards were somewhat amused by us. They would look back at us and sneak and glance and then start giggling which in turn made me giggle. But if any of you know me well, you know that my giggles soon turn into roaring laughter that calls the attention of onlookers. I don't know what happened to me. I used to rarely laugh and now I am always being hushed. This evening I began to laugh in the lobby of the hotel and Ramiro, the school director left. I asked him if I embarrass him and he told me that my laughter does embarrass him a bit. I have no idea as to why I am sharing this because it is NOT something I am proud of. Anyhow.... here Kri and I are at the left. And abovet is me just sitting on a little bench staring off into space. =)

Kristine and I have officially concluded that we will be losing weight when we return to the states because the food is not nearly as tasty. Here Kri and I are sipping away at some frappes at one of our favorite Cafes.

Back to last weekend... I almost died! No not really, but I have to share the story. Here goes.... we left for Mexico City around 9:30am and we ended up returning around 8:00pm. That is almost 11 hours and I think we spent almost half of that in the car. Which for me, means sleeping. =) Anyways... after we finished visiting the house of Frida Kahlo we got to visit the nearby Zocalo. It was also this day that we learned that although food smells amazing on the streets it is usually not that great. Okay, back to my story.

After visiting the Zocalo, Kristine and I followed Irma, the program director, back to the car. She was practically running as Kristine and I were trying to walk as fast as we could while at the same time enjoying our snacks that weren't so great. Irma approached a busy street and began to cross even though Kri and I were a ways behind. We decided to start sprinting and figured we could probably make it in time to cross as well. Well... off we went sprinting and as we neared she suddenly stopped. Only problem was that we didn't stop. At this point my world seemed to go in slow motion. Irma thrust both arms to the side as to stop us from crossing and as gravity carried us a little further a taxi was forced to slam on it's breaks. It seemed as though no one moved for a minute or so. I was kind of embarrassed but what can you do? Soo... I laughed and then we crossed the street and I began to reminisce about my almost near death experience. Just think, had something happened that afternoon you wouldn't have this lovely face to look at! ha, just kidding!

Anyways... check for another update Monday! I already have so much to share and I will post pictures as well! Blessings!

WaNt tO SeE mORe pHotOs???

Click on the link below!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/princesavioleta/

tHe lAst fEw dAyS Of mY brEaK...

Friday evening Kristine and I met up with our friends, Cecilia and Katia. As it turns out they know each other from High School. We walked to the concert together and ended up getting separated from Katia. There were hundreds and hundreds of young Mexicans lined up for the concert. I happened to walk by the baseball park around 12 in the afternoon and there was already a large line forming.

Anyhow... I don't know how we managed but we were able to get in without having to stand in the huge long line. We arrived and hung around the entrance for awhile and the next thing I knew we were being ushered in. Above, Kri, Cecilia and I are posing with our tickets. =)

The concert was supposed to begin at 5 pm but it didn't start until 6:30. There were tons and tons of youth just hanging around. As it got darker the park filled up even more. Then out came the beer and cigarettes. Apparently the majority of the artists aren't the best but there were a few groups that were going to make an appearance that made the event worthwhile. I enjoyed hanging around and listening to the bands and screaming here and there.

The three of us had decided that we would stick around until 9:30 or so but if Cecilia's favorite band made an appearance sooner we would depart. I was hip on the idea but as 8 o'clock rolled around so did some nasty clouds. Some people began to leave as the clouds rolled in. Then the lightening came. I really wanted to stick around so I thought that a little rain wouldn't hurt me. Well let's just say that it wasn't a little rain. As it began to pour people flocked to the nearest exit. Cecilia and I jumped around and laughed while Kristine stood frozen. We found her something to block out the rain but after about fifteen minutes of solid pouring the concert was postponed and Kristine and I decided it would be best to return home. Here I am completely soaked. We walked home because the buses were packed with people and got even more drenched. I thought that it was quite a way to end the night so I found myself laughing a lot. Kristine wasn't quite so amused....

Early Saturday morning we departed on a family excursion. There were eleven of in total. Antonio, my dad, told us that we would arrive in about three hours but that three hours turned into five hours. In total, we spent 10 hours in the car that day. We were going to stay the night in Tolantongo but after taking a pull we all agreed that it was best to leave. When I wasn't sleeping I was playing corners with Alfonso, my little brother. He was so sweet. He would cuddle up next to me and fall asleep. haha... It was a great bonding experience!



Anyhow... here we all are at the right. (back: sister Carolina, boyfriend Hector, dad Antonio, boyfriend Marcos, front: sister Daniela and Denise of Marcos, sister Mari, Kristine, mom Yolanda and brother Alfonso.

I really wish that I could have taken pictures of the excursion but I will do my best to explain. First, I must say that we did not bask in the sun all day. It was raining. But we all changed into our swim suites and hiked in the rain to the Tunnel and cave. We weren't allowed to bring anything other than our swim suites and sandals because anything left unattended would likely be walked off with. Anyhow, we approached a waterfall. Mari told me, "Come on," as she ascended the stairs and walked through the waterfall to a tunnel. I thought..... "hmmm.... I really don't want to slip and fall and be carried off downstream soooooo... I think I'll just wait here." Well, let's just say that wasn't an option. So... I walked through a falls and entered this tunnel. Water was rushing out, but it was warm water. It was pretty dark in the tunnel and I was trying to be careful of my footing so that I wouldn't be carried off and become part of the Falls and I was trying to be careful as to not step on anyone. There were people lining the tunnel just sitting in the warm water that was rushing out. I was then pulled into a pond about five feet deep. It was a really neat experience but it was a bit scary because it was soooo dark. When we went to get out I was the last one and I lost my sandal in the pond. When I finally retrieved it the majority had already exited the tunnel. I asked somebody above to help me up and some random ladies helped me. =)

Anyways.... we made our way down below where there was a more open area with warm water. There were a couple of spots where the warm water just poured. We rubbed mud like stuff all over our bodies as an exfoliate and then stepped under the pounding water. There was also this cave that you could enter but it was difficult. I went with Mari and we had to use a rope to pull ourselves through the strong current of water. We then crossed the rushing water and sat in what seemed like a natural sauna. It was so neat. And to exit we just got to let go of the rope and be rushed out with the current. I don't really know how to describe the experience because I have never seen anything like it. Anyhow.... it was a really great excursion, and to top it off we had tacos at an amazing taco stand for dinner!

Here are my parents, Antonio and Yolanda. There are really great. Antonio loves to joke around and tease me. Yola is soooo sweet. She loves to talk and she always happens to make her way quietly to my room and peeks in. I'm to the point now that I just expect that any minute she'll be at my door. I'm the same age as their girls so they tend to care for me as one of their own. If Antonio ever sees me on the street he picks me up and gives me a ride. He also will come pick me up so that I do not have to come home alone in the dark. Anyhow, yeah.... things are good here. Thanks for all your love and support!

MY VACATION...

Well.... my week of vacation is nearing an end. I only have three more days left before I resume classes. I'm not totally thrilled about starting back up again but I feel that this week was a really nice break. Kristine and I got to hang out and do a lot of fun activities with our Mexican friends. Tomorrow we'll be attending a concert with Cecilia and Katia and on Saturday we'll be traveling with my family to some hot springs. We'll be spending the day in the sun. =)

Anyhow, I've definitely taken some time to think during this past week. I know, who doesn't, right? Well, what I mean is that I've been able to look back and see how things have come together and I'm really happy that I'm here in Mexico. I wish we weren't leaving in seven weeks but I do realize that that is a big chunk of time. So, I'm hoping to make the most of it!


Anywhoo..... my week. On Monday, I stopped by my aerobics teacher's house to drop off a card. She begged me to come in for a while and I ended up chatting with her for a couple of hours. Then I made my way to the school to do my rounds of visiting. Later that afternoon Kristine, Cecilia and I went and saw a Disney movie in the theatre. We thought it was going to be in English but it wasn't. I really didn't mind except the fact that sometimes I feel like the translations and the voices of the translation don't really match up that well. Anyway, that's being picky. At the right is a picture or Kri and me with our aerobics teacher, Soco. I really like her. She's one of my good friends that I can rely on.

Tuesday, Kristine and I spent the afternoon with Katia, our friend from our aerobics class. She invited us over to lunch at her house and after indulging in tasty food we made our way to the school where we spent the afternoon soaking up the sun, swimming and taking photos. She wants Kristine and I to help here with her English but she really doesn't speak any at all and I think more than anything she just wants our friendship. As we were walking to our aerobics class a car full of guys approached us. The tried talking us into going to a party. They even got out of the car and greeted us all. It was quite the experience. I blame it on the little spandex shorts Kristine was prancing around in. hehehe

But, reality has hit me in hanging out with Katia. Her house is super tiny. There is a kitchen and a living room, two bedrooms and one bathroom/laundry room. Katia shares a room with her two brothers that are both teenagers. I guess it just came as a shock to me. This situation isn't too common in the U.S. so even when there are families that live like this it is a shame to the family. But here.... it just seems normal. Her family told us that there house was our house and that we are welcome at anytime. I'm am awed again and again by the generosity and love of the Mexican people. Also, today Kristine and I went shopping for toys. Because in order to get a ticket for the concert you have to purchase a toy and exchange it for a ticket. I think that concert is for some kind of benefit. Anyways... I could see that it was a struggle for Katia. Money is a struggle. She spent a little of $10 and then later commented that she spent like a million bucks. I don't know..... little things like that get to me. I guess this is just an opportunity for me to see how it is Mexicans truly live. I'm being privileged to have a snapshot of what life is really like for many Mexicans.

Oh, I happened to see my first Senora on Tuesday, as well. I was walking by her house and she was right beside me in her car. I decided to wait and say something to her. I said, "Hi, good afternoon. How are you?" At that she replied, "I'm fine, thank you. Bye." And as she was entering the gate she was like, "this is how it is." I turned around probably with the biggest look of disgust but luckily there was no one there to receive all the words my facial expressions were expressing. Anyways.... It was disappointing. But, I'm happy now with my new family. I also ran into my second Senora today. We chatted for a little bit and she adjusted my off the shoulder shirt the way she wanted it. Anyways... it is good to know that I am still on good terms with her.

On to Wednesday......Kristine and I went to the Galerias where we had a little mini coffee date and then wandered around the mall. It wasn't the most exciting event but it was relaxing and nice to just be out doing something. On the way back home I noticed that our Taxi driver was dozing off a bit. When Kristine got out of the car I began to talk to him. I was seriously afraid that he was going to fall asleep at the wheel. I was watching in the rear view mirror as his eyes would open and close. I asked if he was tired and he admitted he was. He shared with me that he works 12 hours a day, seven days a week and maybe he takes home $20 for his family. I can't believe it. I make that in two hours. It was a really good conversation but it just served as a reminder that Mexico is not the U.S. I guess I just don't really understand these differences..... (sigh)

Later that evening we had coffee with Cecilia and one of her friends, Josue. As we were walking to meet them we were stopped at a red light. I couldn't help but stare at a woman who was across the street digging through the garbage. I know we have this in the U.S. but it is just so hard for me to watch and to see. I found it interesting that at lunch my family had been discussing hunger in Mexico and how the richest man in the world happens to be from Mexico. Mexico has money and sources of income. The problem is that there is just poor distribution. Conversation was a bit slow with Josue and Cecilia but it was good to get to know somebody else and practice Spanish. After our coffee session Kristine and I attended our aerobics class. Here we are at the right after one of our classes. Usually I'm drenched in sweat. yuck!

Today..... Kristine and I spent the evening shopping with our friend Candy. We went to Plaza Cuernavaca. We were accompanied by her one year old daughter as well. =) Candy is a firecracker. I have so much fun talking to her and she is just soooooo wonderful!. Here we are being silly with my pink sunglasses. We passed them around and took silly pictures! haha...

Anyways.... life is good here in Mexico. I am really enjoying my time here and I hope that the next seven weeks are filled with fun, learning experiences. Please just keep Kristine and I in your prayers. We still find ourselves having rough days and not always being understanding of the other. But, thank you for all your support and prayers that you have thus provided me with. I know that they have really benefited me. Know that I am truly happy and excited for the next seven weeks. Sometimes I find myself thinking about life post graduation, I wonder if I'll ever even come back to Mexico. It makes me so sad to think that I may go back to the U.S. and never return. I know that the things that I have seen and learned here will always be a part of who I am, but I just find it so unsatisfying to think that I'll live in the U.S. for the rest of my life. I don't want to. I hope God has other plans in store for me....

NevER beeN KiSsEd...

Well, it is true. I have never been kissed and I turned down one of my most promising chances today. Kristine and I traveled to Tepoztlan and spent the day shopping and wandering around the cute little town. We made it just fine to Tepoztlan with the help of my Mexican dad but I wasn't quite sure how to go about getting home. Kristine and I asked a few different traffic directors but no one really knew. Or should I say, we didn't really understand them.

Anyhow, the last person I asked happened to be a younger gentlemen. Probably in his twenties. He asked me if he could take us there and I gladly accepted his help. We ended up having to walk a ways. He asked our names and why we were here alone in Mexico and for how long and so on. He told me he was a Hair Stylist and at that I replied that Kristine has interest in beauty. I was successful in pawning him off to converse with Kristine. For those of you who know me, I did what I normally do with guys. I just kind of went on my way not really paying a whole lot of attention to the conversation.

Anyways, he learned my name, what I study, that I'm a Christian, that I haven't met many Mexican boys, that I'm here for another two months, that I'm single and that I don't go out. I didn't even learn his name.

Anyhow..... stick with me. We cross the street all the while him telling me to not kill myself and to be careful and then he kisses us on the cheek and says goodbye. After saying his little goodbye he comes over to me and tells me that I am extremely beautiful and that he is attracted to me. Then he turns to Kristine and says, "You're pretty too. But I'm more attracted to Violeta." He then looks at me and asks if I have taken offense. I was quite taken aback, a little flattered and said no, that I was not bothered. He then proceeded to ask if he could steal a kiss from me. Not fully registering what he was asking I kind of nodded my head and he began to cock his head as to get ready for the kiss. Then realizing that it wasn't going to be kiss on the cheek because he had just done that, I replied, "I think not." At this he said okay and took my hand and kissed it saying thank you very much. I really didn't know what for. I was taken aback, flattered and yet totally confused as to why he found me attractive when all the while I was not really giving him the time of day. As he turned around to leave I said, "Now what do we need to do here?" He explained to just find the right bus and then he turned to leave.

I know I did what was right in not kissing him but I wish I would have at least taken down his name. He was quite good looking and he was sweet, too. I also wanted to kick myself for being so snotty. Soooo..... I guess I can still say that I have never been kissed.....

LoNgER wAlKs, MoRe meN....

As you may have noticed I switched up my blog a bit. I noticed that my readers were no longer commenting which leads me to believe that I don't have as many readers because my blog was BORING. So.... I changed it. Just for you! =)

Well.... I finished up my first two classes with one A and and A-. Not too happy about the A- but it's not too bad for still being in summer mode. (i.e. the teacher was being generous) Kristine and I are now enjoying ten days free of school. Yay-hoo!!!! Tomorrow we are traveling to Tepoztlan again to enjoy the market. Monday and Tuesday we have plans with our Mexican friends and Wednesday we're planning on spending a day at the mall. Saturday and Sunday we are traveling to some hot springs with my family. Kri doesn't know it yet but she'll find out soon.....

Sooo..... last night right before my aerobics teacher was about to drop me off at my house she invited me to her house for coffee. I thought, why most certainly. She told me that it was best to advise my family but I said it was no big deal. I was thinking we would be maybe a half hour or hour more. Well friends, I arrived back to my house 2 hours and 45 minutes later. I apologized over and over again for missing supper and not advising my family. But since they have daughters my age it was easily forgotten and I was offered supper at 11:30 at night. 1) It was an honor to be invited to my teacher's house and 2) We had such great conversation. She says that it difficult to have conversations with people but she most certainly didn't have a problem chatting away with me. I really enjoyed her company. I told her about some of my desires, specifically about wanting to see some of the poverty in Mexico and she told me that she could take me. She likes girls our age because she wishes she had a daughter. She told me last night that if she had a daughter she wishes that she was as pretty as me. I find it so interesting that she sees the beauty in me and not really anything else. I mean, think about it. Aerobics- you're hot, sweaty, and nasty. Usually my hair is sticking out in all directions and I'm sweating from head to toe. All I can say, is NOT pretty. Anyways, I'm probably one of her worst students, she calls me a rebel. ha, I can't really deny it.

I think one thing that I have discovered more about myself is that men scare me. Even if they're not doing anything. For example....

#1. One evening Kri was getting ready to walk back in the dark. I told her to hold her keys a certain way so that she could use it as a weapon if she came across any bad guys. Then as she was getting ready to turn around and leave I just saw a man walking down the street and I screamed. Then.... Kristine screamed and jumped inside the gate. It was horrible..... I feel so bad for that man.

#2. One time Kri and I were standing around chatting with a friend. There was this man that was across the street and I watched him cross and approach us. But he just came so close that I gasped for air and jumped back. He just wanted to know the hour. Anyways.... my reaction was a bit over the top.

#3. One evening Kristine and I were walking with a friend of ours to go to the center of town. All of the sudden some man approached me asking me about the Lord's prayer. But I was frightened and so I jumped back and gasped for air. He was a little taken aback by my response to his presence.

I know I have more examples but I'm just not remembering them...... anyways... usually my reaction is jump and gasp for air. Not the most welcoming response.

Anyways.... I titled my entry longer walks, more men because now that I live further away I walk a lot more. I like it. But I don't like the men I encounter along the way. They always say things about my appearance and even when I think they're being kind I realize that they are being naughty.

Anyhow, today I left Kri's house as to get home before dark. It was dusk and my walk was going just fine until I turned to go up the hill leading to my house. My neighborhood is very desolate. As I was beginning my hike up the hill I noticed that a car was right beside me. I thought, just keep walking Violet. You're fine. Then the man started talking to me. I didn't hear him and so I just kept walking a little faster. Then he said in English, "Do you talk? Can you talk?" I thought I can talk but I most certainly don't want to talk to you. I don't know you. Then he said, "Will it bother you?" At that I replied, "Yes, I don't want to talk to you." All the while I was walking faster and faster and he was following me. I was so scared and was relieved when he zoomed off. But then..... he returned and drove by me again. My heart was racing so fast from the incline and that scary encounter. I told my family about it but Tono told me it was no big deal. That is how Mexicans are. I'm sorry.... I don't care if that is how they are. What would have happened if I did talk to him or if I did get in his car? Ugh..... anyways.... I won't be walking at dusk anymore and I will let my aerobics teacher spoil me and drop me off at my house.

Life is good here. I really am enjoying myself and I wish I wasn't returning to the states so soon. I will post pictures soon. =)

A long awaited update....

So much to tell and I don't even know where to begin..... Well, let's see. I just changed families yesterday which means I am now on my third family. I live a distance away from the school with a family of five. The parents and the three children ages 20, 18 & 13. The reason I changed this last time was because I was living with an elderly couple and I just felt like it was more of my duty to serve them and not be served by them. I'm really excited for all that is in store with this new family. I will keep you all posted. =)

This past weekend Kristine and I traveled to Taxco which is known for it's sliver. We spent about a half hour wandering around a church that was constructed by Jose de la Borda who also constructed Jardin de la Borda in Cuernavaca. It was the house that Maximiliano, the second and last emperor of Mexico, occupied. I was bored during the tour since it was like the millionth church I have visited but I was still fascinated by all of the work it must have taken to construct such a church. After our lovely tour we spent two hours roaming the streets shopping and saying no to all of the indigenous vendors that shove things in your face for you to buy. I have a hard time resisting the kids so I usually end up chatting with them only to end up telling them that I'm not going to buy their product. Sometimes I slip them a little money because it just is so hard to see these kids out on the street.

Here is Kristine and I at the right. We decided that it would be a good idea to take a picture of this town. Why? dunno.... Don't we just look gorgeous? ha, no.

But, I must admit that the highlight of the trip was when we went to the nearby Oxxo to buy snacks for the ride home. They were having a promotion and were handing out iced coffee. Kristine and I were sucked in to buying the delicious treat and when I approached Kristine as she was waiting for our drinks I got a laugh. There was Kristine holding this giant yellow di staring at the two young workers looking so confused. Kristine was given instructions to roll the di and then was given prizes. She just kinda laughed nervously and wondered what the heck the prizes were for. It really was nothing too exciting, just a promotion. But when you're living in a foreign culture and you don't quite understand everything, you learn to just laugh. Soooo........ we laughed!

Here I am at the right with my iced coffee and prizes. My prizes weren't as crazy as Kristine's but yeah.....

Anyways... two weeks ago Kristine and I traveled to Xochicalco and visited the pyramids. It wasn't too exciting and we were both in a bad mood. The sun was beating down on us and I just felt so silly with my hot pink sunglasses that I usually take pride in wearing. Anyways... we did get some good photos that we may look back on one day and thank ourselves for. Or we may look back and say, now what was this again? hehehe.... I think I'm getting a little puffed up from all the history that I'm being bombarded with.

As far as life goes...... I am happy. It makes me sad to think that I am almost halfway done with my time here. I feel like there is still so much to do and so many friendships to continue working on. I definitely feel like I have a little circle of friends here and it feels so good. I have my friend Cecilia, whom we see three times a week. She is a blast. Here we are above in a little mini photo shoot! Last night we went and hung out with her and her best friend. I hope that this is just the beginning of more friendships. =)

And I also have my friend Candy. She is the secretary in the school but oh so much fun. She is so hysterical. She's a little like me so we have fun together. =) I'm pretty sure she doesn't get any work done while I'm around but I think she probably finds it worth while, or so I hope! And she has a daughter. She brought her last Friday so I could see her. She is sooooooo adorable. Every time I see little kids it just makes me wish I had my own. I know, patience...... someday.

Also, I have my whole aerobics class. I went to aerobics class last week to tell the teacher that I would not be coming again and I ended up having to explain to everyone what was going on and then they all told me that I didn't have a valid excuse and that I would be coming. Sooo... my adventure with aerobics continues. I've actually become acquainted with some younger girls that occasionally come and they want to go dancing. So, we'll see what happens there.

Anyways, I'm writing this all very fast because I have so much to do. Please be praying for me. For the transition with my new family and for our finals week. I'm so totally still in summer mode which is NOT a good thing. I hope I skip out of it before I come home. Ahh.... anyways, I apologize for not updating all you faithful readers sooner and I'm sorry I've been brief but I'll write more during my vacation next week.

oN tHe RoAd aGaiN...

This past Saturday Kristine and I traveled to three different towns. We were accompanied by Ramiro, the director of Universal and another student. It wasn't the most exciting excursion but Kristine and I managed to have fun. We visited three different convents that were all constructed in the 16th century by the Agustinos. They were all fairly similar but still interesting. Left, is the first convent that we visited in Yecapixtla.

After visiting the convent and seeking information about the year it was constructed and by whom. Kristine and I strolled through the atrium only to discover people selling things. I was in disbelief because I was reminded of when Jesus was angered by vendors in the temple. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. It just didn't seem like the place to have things for sale.

Anyhow, Yecapixtla is known for their "Cecina" a type of meat. I think it's the meat from a cows leg. Anyways we hung out in the meat market and one of the ladies prepared meat tacos for us. It was so yummy. Here is Kristine next to the meat. It looked pretty gross to be honest but it was tasty. mmmm..... If Mexico had the same food regulation laws as the United States I'm sure Mexico would have big problem. Food is always out in the open and there are always flies. I don't know. I have kind of gotten used to the sight.

And here is me. =) I'm not much of a pop drinker but I absolutely love this drink. It is apple. It comes in red and golden and I'm so bummed that I haven't been able to encounter it in the U.S. Usually I have no problem drinking water unless this is an option. Luckily, my family consists of coke lovers and so it is not very often that I get to enjoy this luxury.

Our second stop was Totolaplan. This town seemed pretty dead. There was not a lot of activity in the streets. Ramiro gave us fifteen minutes to check out the convent and to seek out the year it was constructed and by whom. It was here that Kristine and I decided to have a little mini photo shoot to lighten up the journey a bit. The grounds were pretty and we had fun being silly. Here I am at the left. =)

Our last stop was Tlayapacan. There was a huge tourist market and it was also the day of the town market. We spent a couple of hours wandering around buying gifts for people at home (i.e. YOU!!!). And fifteen minutes prior to meeting up with Ramiro again, Kristine and I hustled over the convent to do our "homework." We encountered Ramiro there and he informed me that there was a museum that had mummies. Soooo...... since I missed the mummy museum in Guanajuato I decided to take a stroll through the museum. It was kind of a boring Museum because there were just a bunch of crucified Jesus' hanging around but when I got to the mummy room it was really cool. hehehe =) I know, it sounds gross but it is kind of fascinating, too. Anyhow, our last stop made the trip all the more worthwhile. Then we were back on the road again...