For Christmas Eve/Christmas we went to local markets in Tonala and Tlaquepaque, had a nice lunch in Tlaquepaque, ate dinner at my apartment and opened gifts on Christmas days. Here are a few snapshots which capture our holiday:
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Christmas
It was a little strange to not be back home at my parents house in Sacramento for Christmas. But not too strange since my immediate family is currently visiting me in GDL for two weeks! :)
For Christmas Eve/Christmas we went to local markets in Tonala and Tlaquepaque, had a nice lunch in Tlaquepaque, ate dinner at my apartment and opened gifts on Christmas days. Here are a few snapshots which capture our holiday:
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!
For Christmas Eve/Christmas we went to local markets in Tonala and Tlaquepaque, had a nice lunch in Tlaquepaque, ate dinner at my apartment and opened gifts on Christmas days. Here are a few snapshots which capture our holiday:
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
When it Rains, it POURS...
A random thunderstorm decided to strike GDL and Zapopan early this evening. This storm brought me back to when I first arrived in GDL to rainy season in July. Almost every evening around 7 p.m., one would be able to see the flashes of light across the sky. About thirty minutes later, the storm would hit. Correction, the storm began to POUR down huge raindrops. For some reason, the irrigation system and construction of streets were built funky where all the streets end up looking somewhat like rivers. All of the drains would be blocked up, and the rain pours down so fast that it is almost impossible for the rain to clear the streets as fast as it comes down. Streets flooded, cars stuck, and stranded pedestrians would be the typical sight along the drenched streets of Zapopan throughout the night. By morning, the storm normally would have cleared and the streets would be practically dry with just a look of morning dew or fog.
Oddly enough, the exact same thing is occurring as I type. I began to see flashes of light about an hour ago. I always have to wonder to myself whether this flash is a spotlight or an incoming storm. Rarely does any sound accompany the light until about five minutes before it hits. Then, BAM!!! Right now it sounds like there is a waterfall flowing into my apartment swimming pool. About every twenty or thirty seconds the lightning rumbles and there is a flash across the sky. Also, the louder the rumble or gargle of thunder, the harder the rain is about to hit. I can't believe I'm actually going to say this BUT I'm going to miss the rain in GDL. It's actually quite amazing -- when you're not in it.
Oddly enough, the exact same thing is occurring as I type. I began to see flashes of light about an hour ago. I always have to wonder to myself whether this flash is a spotlight or an incoming storm. Rarely does any sound accompany the light until about five minutes before it hits. Then, BAM!!! Right now it sounds like there is a waterfall flowing into my apartment swimming pool. About every twenty or thirty seconds the lightning rumbles and there is a flash across the sky. Also, the louder the rumble or gargle of thunder, the harder the rain is about to hit. I can't believe I'm actually going to say this BUT I'm going to miss the rain in GDL. It's actually quite amazing -- when you're not in it.
Sayulita
School is finally out and all I want to do is sleep. Being back in school for the past five and a half months, taking five courses in Spanish, and student teaching has led me to feel utterly exhausted in the end. I am definitely looking forward to the next month which will consist of a weekend trip to Acapulco, my family visiting for Christmas, NYE in Cancun and studying for a week in Playa del Carmen before jetting back to the States.
This last weekend I bussed on over to Sayulita - a beach town about an hour North of Vallarta. The town is fairly small, surrounded by hills, and consists primarily of a main plaza surrounded by little restaurants, bars and stores. From here, the beach is only about a block and a half away from the main plaza. All in all, it's basically a small surf town wiht a little bay full of surfers, beachfront restaurants, sand and abundant sun.
We rented a house for the four nights which only ended up being $60 a night total! Located up in the hills and about a ten minute walk slightly uphill from the plaza, the house is quaint split between being outdoors and indoors. The dining room and kitchen were all open to the outside. The only parts actually indoors were the two bedrooms and one bath.
What did I do all weekend? I typically woke up at 9, went down to town for breakfast, walked to the beach, layed out for a few hours, went back into town for a little shopping, hiked back up to the house, showered and changed, walked back to town for dinner, and tried to be in bed by 11 each night. Although it is high season along the beaches, Sayulita is more of a sleepy surfer town. However, I did feel like I was in the US vs. Mexico with Americans overpopulating the streets.
Would I ever go back? Most likely not. It is worth seeing for a little getaway and relaxing weekender, but will not likely be putting Sayulita on my list of places to visit again.
Rating: 7/10
This last weekend I bussed on over to Sayulita - a beach town about an hour North of Vallarta. The town is fairly small, surrounded by hills, and consists primarily of a main plaza surrounded by little restaurants, bars and stores. From here, the beach is only about a block and a half away from the main plaza. All in all, it's basically a small surf town wiht a little bay full of surfers, beachfront restaurants, sand and abundant sun.
We rented a house for the four nights which only ended up being $60 a night total! Located up in the hills and about a ten minute walk slightly uphill from the plaza, the house is quaint split between being outdoors and indoors. The dining room and kitchen were all open to the outside. The only parts actually indoors were the two bedrooms and one bath.
What did I do all weekend? I typically woke up at 9, went down to town for breakfast, walked to the beach, layed out for a few hours, went back into town for a little shopping, hiked back up to the house, showered and changed, walked back to town for dinner, and tried to be in bed by 11 each night. Although it is high season along the beaches, Sayulita is more of a sleepy surfer town. However, I did feel like I was in the US vs. Mexico with Americans overpopulating the streets.
Would I ever go back? Most likely not. It is worth seeing for a little getaway and relaxing weekender, but will not likely be putting Sayulita on my list of places to visit again.
Rating: 7/10
Monday, December 7, 2009
Practicas en GDL
Last month was pretty crazy and jam packed with “Practicas Intensivas" (student teaching). This basically means that I had to teach at least six different lessons (English, Math, Science, Art, PE and Spanish) each week. For the most part, my students behaved fairly well – listened to directions, worked on the task at hand, etc.
But here’s the kicker…
One Monday I showed up to realize the class was behind one lesson so the Spanish lesson/reading I had planned would have to be pushed off until Thursday. I explained to the teacher, she understood and then asked if I could instruct the last two pages of the current lesson. Although I wasn’t quite prepared, I obliged and continued on. Once this was done, she pulled me aside and asked if I had any other lessons planned for the day. I didn’t, but she told me she wasn’t feeling well and asked if I could take over. I of course agreed, but little did I know she meant literally take over so she could go home. I asked her what she wanted me to do with the kids and her response was whatever I would like.
So she left me for the day with my 33 little rascals. I don’t know if it was because it was a Monday, but my kids were out of control. Jumping on the desks, crying left and right, choking eachother and punching eachother in their stomachs. Their attention span would last for about 10 minutes before I would have to change the activity. However, the main problem is the teacher has never established formal rules. She let's the kids fight and cry giving the excuse, "It happens," or "It's not my responsibility." Nevertheless, I was utterly exhausted by the time the bell rang.
The next day I was absolutely dreading going to the elementary school. Sure enough, my teacher never showed up nor did they have a sub ready for the class. I went up to the principal, informed her that the teacher never came and that I needed the key to the cabinet with all the classroom materials. Without hesitation, she handed me the key and I was on my “merry” way.
This day went a little smoother thanks to PE and getting a little bit of their energy out of their system. I think I was also a little more mentally prepared to have them all on my own too. I had come to class in mind with a few back up activities just in case. I was also able to gauge my time a little better and have somewhat of an idea what to do based on what we did the day before. Now not to say that my day went perfectly smoothly without any hitting, jumping on desks, throwing pencils into the fan or crying because I took coloring books away from them during math time. The most intriguing point for me was when I read a story outloud to the class. Although they had read the story as a class the day before, I knew they probably didn’t comprehend or here the whole story and decided to be the storyteller. Seeing their sparkly wide eyed faces in awe of the story at hand reminded me that these are still little kids. They are entertained by some of the simplest things and although sometimes I want to scold them for behavior, they are still only 7-8 years old.
Turns out the teacher did not show up ALL WEEK. On Thursday, I was asked why I did not come on Wednesday because they needed me. Feeling under the weather on Friday, I knew I would not be able to teach all day if this was the case again. Sure enough, the teacher never showed up but I informed the principal I would have to leave after one hour due to food poisoning. She said it would be fine but asked if any of my colleagues could teach the class. OR if any of my professors were around and could take over. This alone made me realize even more so that we are being used and they are taking advantage of us being at the school. I told her no and went home.
All in all, a stressful and exhausting week. Writing this only makes me want to take a nap.
But here’s the kicker…
One Monday I showed up to realize the class was behind one lesson so the Spanish lesson/reading I had planned would have to be pushed off until Thursday. I explained to the teacher, she understood and then asked if I could instruct the last two pages of the current lesson. Although I wasn’t quite prepared, I obliged and continued on. Once this was done, she pulled me aside and asked if I had any other lessons planned for the day. I didn’t, but she told me she wasn’t feeling well and asked if I could take over. I of course agreed, but little did I know she meant literally take over so she could go home. I asked her what she wanted me to do with the kids and her response was whatever I would like.
So she left me for the day with my 33 little rascals. I don’t know if it was because it was a Monday, but my kids were out of control. Jumping on the desks, crying left and right, choking eachother and punching eachother in their stomachs. Their attention span would last for about 10 minutes before I would have to change the activity. However, the main problem is the teacher has never established formal rules. She let's the kids fight and cry giving the excuse, "It happens," or "It's not my responsibility." Nevertheless, I was utterly exhausted by the time the bell rang.
The next day I was absolutely dreading going to the elementary school. Sure enough, my teacher never showed up nor did they have a sub ready for the class. I went up to the principal, informed her that the teacher never came and that I needed the key to the cabinet with all the classroom materials. Without hesitation, she handed me the key and I was on my “merry” way.
This day went a little smoother thanks to PE and getting a little bit of their energy out of their system. I think I was also a little more mentally prepared to have them all on my own too. I had come to class in mind with a few back up activities just in case. I was also able to gauge my time a little better and have somewhat of an idea what to do based on what we did the day before. Now not to say that my day went perfectly smoothly without any hitting, jumping on desks, throwing pencils into the fan or crying because I took coloring books away from them during math time. The most intriguing point for me was when I read a story outloud to the class. Although they had read the story as a class the day before, I knew they probably didn’t comprehend or here the whole story and decided to be the storyteller. Seeing their sparkly wide eyed faces in awe of the story at hand reminded me that these are still little kids. They are entertained by some of the simplest things and although sometimes I want to scold them for behavior, they are still only 7-8 years old.
Turns out the teacher did not show up ALL WEEK. On Thursday, I was asked why I did not come on Wednesday because they needed me. Feeling under the weather on Friday, I knew I would not be able to teach all day if this was the case again. Sure enough, the teacher never showed up but I informed the principal I would have to leave after one hour due to food poisoning. She said it would be fine but asked if any of my colleagues could teach the class. OR if any of my professors were around and could take over. This alone made me realize even more so that we are being used and they are taking advantage of us being at the school. I told her no and went home.
All in all, a stressful and exhausting week. Writing this only makes me want to take a nap.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Los Collarines - The Neck Braces
An interesting observation made by almost every person in the intercambio program is that there is an odd amount of people who constantly walk around with neck braces. For some odd reason it seems that almost every day we see someone who has a neck brace on either at school, the supermarket, on the bus, in the pharmacy, or even while on a leisure stroll. The most predominant weekend was after the “Puente” (three-day weekend). It seemed as if the number of people multiplied and I could not step outside of my classroom without seeing at least one person with a neck brace. The best is when you see two people both with neck braces, engaging in a conversation.
With this in mind, this past weekend I had the honor of attending a “Fiesta de los collarines.” Every person in attendance had to wear a neck brace. It was more of a way of embracing the fact that everyone wears them and making fun of the issue at the same time. The party was a hit and I even decorated mine to read, “VIVA MEXICO.” My friend Ismael on the other hand wrote on his, “PINCHE CAMION.”
Good times as always.
With this in mind, this past weekend I had the honor of attending a “Fiesta de los collarines.” Every person in attendance had to wear a neck brace. It was more of a way of embracing the fact that everyone wears them and making fun of the issue at the same time. The party was a hit and I even decorated mine to read, “VIVA MEXICO.” My friend Ismael on the other hand wrote on his, “PINCHE CAMION.”
Good times as always.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Observaciones
Since I arrived in GDL back in July, a few things have definitely stuck out as surprising, hilarious, or interesting:
* The teens and like all wear Ed Hardy, Abercrombie, American Eagle and Hollister
* Same color outfits are considered OK (purple pants with a purple shirt with purple shoes with a purple hairband, earrings, and belt)
* It's considered socially acceptable for men/boys to whistle, yell, chant or say things to girls as they pass by to acknowledge they think the girls/woman are good-looking
* Limes and salsa/hot sauce go with everything
* Practically EVERYONE has a significant other. A lot of the times guys claim they have a girlfriend, but not to worry. I guess a lot more "open relationships"
* People stare A LOT
* Some clubs are incredibly hard to get into. Bouncers will point and say, "you, but not you (to a friend)
* When in doubt and you're hungry, you know that you will stumble upon a fruit cart or taco stand sooner rather than later
* Despite prior warnings, the girls dress exactly like the girls in the states do when going out
* Beer is cheaper than water
* People always want to know your last name so they can look you up on Facebook
* Jeans w/o butt pockets are a big hit here (think back to Britney Spears "I love rock n' roll" time w/hip hugging low rider jeans sans pockets
* Songs guaranteed to be played at bars and clubs are: "I've got a feeling..." "Sex on Fire," "When you were young" "I know you want me"
* All the cover bands sing Cold Play and Kings of Leon
Just a few for now. I'm sure by the end of my journey I will be listing off similar items which I miss about Mexico.
* The teens and like all wear Ed Hardy, Abercrombie, American Eagle and Hollister
* Same color outfits are considered OK (purple pants with a purple shirt with purple shoes with a purple hairband, earrings, and belt)
* It's considered socially acceptable for men/boys to whistle, yell, chant or say things to girls as they pass by to acknowledge they think the girls/woman are good-looking
* Limes and salsa/hot sauce go with everything
* Practically EVERYONE has a significant other. A lot of the times guys claim they have a girlfriend, but not to worry. I guess a lot more "open relationships"
* People stare A LOT
* Some clubs are incredibly hard to get into. Bouncers will point and say, "you, but not you (to a friend)
* When in doubt and you're hungry, you know that you will stumble upon a fruit cart or taco stand sooner rather than later
* Despite prior warnings, the girls dress exactly like the girls in the states do when going out
* Beer is cheaper than water
* People always want to know your last name so they can look you up on Facebook
* Jeans w/o butt pockets are a big hit here (think back to Britney Spears "I love rock n' roll" time w/hip hugging low rider jeans sans pockets
* Songs guaranteed to be played at bars and clubs are: "I've got a feeling..." "Sex on Fire," "When you were young" "I know you want me"
* All the cover bands sing Cold Play and Kings of Leon
Just a few for now. I'm sure by the end of my journey I will be listing off similar items which I miss about Mexico.
Friday, September 25, 2009
HOORAY!
No fever, no cough, no symptoms whatsoever of having the flu and dengue this past week, I'm off to Los Angeles for the weekend and Oaxaca for the week!
One of my friends from college, Michelle, is getting married this weekend in Malibu. I'm so excited to be reunited with good friends and be with Michelle on her special day. Don't worry, mom and dad. I will abstain from drinking alcohol putting myself at risk of getting a relapse.
BON VOYAGE!!
One of my friends from college, Michelle, is getting married this weekend in Malibu. I'm so excited to be reunited with good friends and be with Michelle on her special day. Don't worry, mom and dad. I will abstain from drinking alcohol putting myself at risk of getting a relapse.
BON VOYAGE!!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Influenza
Pulling up to the next hospital is a different story all on its own. I asked the security guard how to get to the emergency area for adults. He quickly picked up my accent and commented I'm not from here. He asked if I had the flu, I nodded, and he pointed me in the right direction. After turning the final corner, I stood dead in my tracks. Looking into an open outdoor space of about 100 people coughing, wearing masks, bloodshot eyes and crying babies, I felt like I was in a movie. I had no idea how much of an issue the flu and Dengue was in Guadalajara. I was suddenly thankful of the horrid mask I too had to wear. Who knew what all of these people were sick with standing around me. All I knew was I wanted to get in the office, get my medicine, and get out FAST.
I pushed my way through the crowd with numerous, "Disculpe," and "Perdon," until I finally got to the main room. There was a small table with two 20-something y/o "nurses" or "helpers" sitting at the table and giving out numbers (currently at 110 for adults and 46 for pediatrics). I waited in a line of three people for about 20 minutes before it was finally my turn. I took a seat at the table, asked if they spoke English (which of course they did not), handed them my lab results and doctor's note, then waited... and waited... and waited. About 30 minutes later of sitting in the same chair directly in front of them, while they tended to other patients, I finally asked the male if there was something I needed to do. Or what the next step would be. He told me he needed to fill out a form with my information and diagnostics. OK...
Granted, I let it slide for about 1 hour of just sitting in the chair. Looking around me and listening to the people coming up to the table, I convinced myself there were people who were in much more dire need of help than I was. A mother was cradling her 6 month old wailing baby with a huge mask over her face. Another mother carried her 10 year old child through the waiting room asking for help. Who was I to take away help from these people?
One hour later I looked at the female "nurse" and asked if I was waiting to be helped or if I needed to take a number. She told me I did not need a number and that there is a lot going on. Thirty minutes later, I felt tears begin to stroll down my cheek. Again, this was a very emotional day for me. I was sick, I was fighting to understand medical jargon and explain my condition to others, stuck in a room with sick people (not good for a hypochondriac like myself), and all I wanted was to get my medicine and get OUT!!!
Luckily, the tears worked. The nurse took my file and began to ask my for data. With relief, I gave all my info and they took my temperature. I knew it was bad when the nurse read the thermometer, looked at me with her eyes almost popping out of her head. I wanted to say, "That's right! I'm sick! And you have been making me sit here for over an hour!!" Instead, I sat like a lady and gave a concerned look (I had a temp of 40 C which is about 104 F). She turned to her colleague and whispered something in his ear. They both then tried to act out taking a pill and rubbed their stomachs. I probably should've told them I do actually understand Spanish, but the charades things was kinda humorous. I told them I had not taken anything up until this point because I was there specifically to get medicine. They handed me two pills and told me to take them immediately. The nurse told me the doctor would be with me in a minute (yeah right).
Next issue at hand would be taking these two pills. I knew it would help bring down my fever. The dilemma was that I have a really big problem with swallowing pills. It takes me about ten minutes to force even one down. I excused myself to the bathroom, which was located in the main building about 200 yds away), and took the pills in a bathroom stall. Upon return to the infected area, I bypassed the crowd, went straight to the office again and sat on the floor. I was EXHAUSTED. All I wanted was to go to sleep and I was trying to fight my fever which was hard to do in an unairconditioned room filled with other ill individuals. I decided to pull the really sick card again. I stood up, leaned against the wall, and started to fall asleep.
The male "helper" looked at me, took my form, walked into the doctors office and placed it directly on her desk. SUCCESS!! Finally, after an hour and a half I would be next up! Of course they were out of the medicine the other doctor requested. After a quick 10 minute check up, the new doctor signed a form, handed me a pack of meds, told me I am not allowed to leave my apartment for five days since I'm contagious and sent me on my merry way.
Today is day four of my apartment "quarantine". The whole thing ended up being for the best since I'm not allowed to leave my apartment and all I do is rest. The last four days have consisted of me being in and out of consciousness with a few movies in between. Tomorrow is my last and final day of having to be kept inside and forgetting what fresh air or the sun feels like.
And today... well today is the first day where I actually almost feel normal again. I hardly have a cough, I'm not as exhausted and I have a lot more energy.
I pushed my way through the crowd with numerous, "Disculpe," and "Perdon," until I finally got to the main room. There was a small table with two 20-something y/o "nurses" or "helpers" sitting at the table and giving out numbers (currently at 110 for adults and 46 for pediatrics). I waited in a line of three people for about 20 minutes before it was finally my turn. I took a seat at the table, asked if they spoke English (which of course they did not), handed them my lab results and doctor's note, then waited... and waited... and waited. About 30 minutes later of sitting in the same chair directly in front of them, while they tended to other patients, I finally asked the male if there was something I needed to do. Or what the next step would be. He told me he needed to fill out a form with my information and diagnostics. OK...
Granted, I let it slide for about 1 hour of just sitting in the chair. Looking around me and listening to the people coming up to the table, I convinced myself there were people who were in much more dire need of help than I was. A mother was cradling her 6 month old wailing baby with a huge mask over her face. Another mother carried her 10 year old child through the waiting room asking for help. Who was I to take away help from these people?
One hour later I looked at the female "nurse" and asked if I was waiting to be helped or if I needed to take a number. She told me I did not need a number and that there is a lot going on. Thirty minutes later, I felt tears begin to stroll down my cheek. Again, this was a very emotional day for me. I was sick, I was fighting to understand medical jargon and explain my condition to others, stuck in a room with sick people (not good for a hypochondriac like myself), and all I wanted was to get my medicine and get OUT!!!
Luckily, the tears worked. The nurse took my file and began to ask my for data. With relief, I gave all my info and they took my temperature. I knew it was bad when the nurse read the thermometer, looked at me with her eyes almost popping out of her head. I wanted to say, "That's right! I'm sick! And you have been making me sit here for over an hour!!" Instead, I sat like a lady and gave a concerned look (I had a temp of 40 C which is about 104 F). She turned to her colleague and whispered something in his ear. They both then tried to act out taking a pill and rubbed their stomachs. I probably should've told them I do actually understand Spanish, but the charades things was kinda humorous. I told them I had not taken anything up until this point because I was there specifically to get medicine. They handed me two pills and told me to take them immediately. The nurse told me the doctor would be with me in a minute (yeah right).
Next issue at hand would be taking these two pills. I knew it would help bring down my fever. The dilemma was that I have a really big problem with swallowing pills. It takes me about ten minutes to force even one down. I excused myself to the bathroom, which was located in the main building about 200 yds away), and took the pills in a bathroom stall. Upon return to the infected area, I bypassed the crowd, went straight to the office again and sat on the floor. I was EXHAUSTED. All I wanted was to go to sleep and I was trying to fight my fever which was hard to do in an unairconditioned room filled with other ill individuals. I decided to pull the really sick card again. I stood up, leaned against the wall, and started to fall asleep.
The male "helper" looked at me, took my form, walked into the doctors office and placed it directly on her desk. SUCCESS!! Finally, after an hour and a half I would be next up! Of course they were out of the medicine the other doctor requested. After a quick 10 minute check up, the new doctor signed a form, handed me a pack of meds, told me I am not allowed to leave my apartment for five days since I'm contagious and sent me on my merry way.
Today is day four of my apartment "quarantine". The whole thing ended up being for the best since I'm not allowed to leave my apartment and all I do is rest. The last four days have consisted of me being in and out of consciousness with a few movies in between. Tomorrow is my last and final day of having to be kept inside and forgetting what fresh air or the sun feels like.
And today... well today is the first day where I actually almost feel normal again. I hardly have a cough, I'm not as exhausted and I have a lot more energy.
Spotted Mosquitoes
After turning the final corner, I stood dead in my tracks. Looking into an open outdoor space of about 100 people coughing, wearing masks, bloodshot eyes and crying babies, I felt like I was in a movie. I had no idea how much of an issue the flu and Dengue were in Guadalajara. I was suddenly thankful of the horrid mask I too had to wear. Who knew what all of these people were sick with standing around me. All I knew was I wanted to get in the office, get my medicine, and get out FAST.
Rewind...
Wednesday morning: I woke up to a weird ache on my lower back. After close examination in the mirror and with the help of two friends, we decided it was either a rash or a bite. The rash was raised, swollen and red, yet I had absolutely no idea where it came from. It was so big and painful there was no way I could simply forget bumping into something, being burned by a candle, or drunkenly injuring myself without knowing. All options were out of the question. This odd rash simply "appeared." I let it be and boggled my brain the next two days about where it could have possibly come from...
Thursday: I began to develop a cough and my muscles began to feel sore. I didn't think this was too out of the ordinary due to my weak immune system and the fact of about 50% of my class being sick with something.
Friday: Went to school utterly exhausted. I thought this was because I went out three nights in a row with friends. Although, I did not drink too much any of the nights so maybe it was just exhaustion. I began to think... Wow, turning 26 does feel a lot different. My poor body can't take it anymore. On the walk home from school, I explained to Gabi how every muscle in my body ached. How my eyes seemed like they were burning and had an ache all on its own. I got home at 11:30 a.m. and slept until 4:30 p.m. After waking up to eat something and find out what my friends were doing, I crawled back into bed around 7 p.m. and did not wake up until the next morning at about 9:30 a.m.!!
Saturday: Sick, sick, and more sick. I decided I should probably go to the doctor to get checked out for Dengue Fever (a fever people get from mosquitoes carrying the illness which causes aches, burning eyes, exhaustion, lack of hunger, etc.). My good ol roommie accompanied me to the emergency room where they proceeded to do a blood test and cotton swab swipe of my nose. We were informed to come back in at least 2 hours for the lab results. Of course on the way home, the hospital called and said they needed another test since the cotton swab test had too much mucus on it! So, three rounds and back at the hospital, I waived my doctor down, who looked at me and said, "I have bad news... come here."
WHOA WHOA WHOA!! First off, you do not tell a sick patient, "I have bad news." Do you know how many crazy things went through my head? I thought they were going to say I have cancer or something!
Diagnostics showed I apparently have Dengue Fever and the Flu. Right now there are six types of different flus floating around in the Zapopan area alone. The nasty rash I noticed Wednesday morning, however, was the mosquito bite of a Dengue Fever carrier. So of course, I of all people get two different types of illnesses, both attributed with fevers, at the same time!
The first sign of Dengue is an odd rash on lower extremities (check). Next up are symptoms which include dry cough, headaches, pain in the eyes, exhaustion, lack of hunger, and body aches (check, check, check, check, check, and check). During my chat with the doctor, after joking around about being the "special patient" with not one but two flues, I let out a few coughs. All of the doctors gave my doctor "the look." She came back to me with a surgical mask in hand, looked me dead in the eyes and said, "I'm sorry. Please don't hate me, but you have to wear this for the next five days." ACK!! Of course I started crying (there was a lot of emotion going on during the day. I think it was from being exhausted, feverish and sick). After filling out a bunch of forms and getting some medicine, my doctor told me I would now have to go to another hospital to get some type of a transfusion/medicine. Who knows, a lot gets lost in translation.
My doctor escorted me outside and asked a valet guy to give me a hand so the taxi driver would not up the charge for being a foreigner. The gimmick ended up being him telling the driver I just had surgery and couldn't talk. This way he would never know I was from the States! The drive ended up being a lot of gestures, nods and shakes. Interesting...
The next hospital visit is a story all on it's own.
Rewind...
Wednesday morning: I woke up to a weird ache on my lower back. After close examination in the mirror and with the help of two friends, we decided it was either a rash or a bite. The rash was raised, swollen and red, yet I had absolutely no idea where it came from. It was so big and painful there was no way I could simply forget bumping into something, being burned by a candle, or drunkenly injuring myself without knowing. All options were out of the question. This odd rash simply "appeared." I let it be and boggled my brain the next two days about where it could have possibly come from...
Thursday: I began to develop a cough and my muscles began to feel sore. I didn't think this was too out of the ordinary due to my weak immune system and the fact of about 50% of my class being sick with something.
Friday: Went to school utterly exhausted. I thought this was because I went out three nights in a row with friends. Although, I did not drink too much any of the nights so maybe it was just exhaustion. I began to think... Wow, turning 26 does feel a lot different. My poor body can't take it anymore. On the walk home from school, I explained to Gabi how every muscle in my body ached. How my eyes seemed like they were burning and had an ache all on its own. I got home at 11:30 a.m. and slept until 4:30 p.m. After waking up to eat something and find out what my friends were doing, I crawled back into bed around 7 p.m. and did not wake up until the next morning at about 9:30 a.m.!!
Saturday: Sick, sick, and more sick. I decided I should probably go to the doctor to get checked out for Dengue Fever (a fever people get from mosquitoes carrying the illness which causes aches, burning eyes, exhaustion, lack of hunger, etc.). My good ol roommie accompanied me to the emergency room where they proceeded to do a blood test and cotton swab swipe of my nose. We were informed to come back in at least 2 hours for the lab results. Of course on the way home, the hospital called and said they needed another test since the cotton swab test had too much mucus on it! So, three rounds and back at the hospital, I waived my doctor down, who looked at me and said, "I have bad news... come here."
WHOA WHOA WHOA!! First off, you do not tell a sick patient, "I have bad news." Do you know how many crazy things went through my head? I thought they were going to say I have cancer or something!
Diagnostics showed I apparently have Dengue Fever and the Flu. Right now there are six types of different flus floating around in the Zapopan area alone. The nasty rash I noticed Wednesday morning, however, was the mosquito bite of a Dengue Fever carrier. So of course, I of all people get two different types of illnesses, both attributed with fevers, at the same time!
The first sign of Dengue is an odd rash on lower extremities (check). Next up are symptoms which include dry cough, headaches, pain in the eyes, exhaustion, lack of hunger, and body aches (check, check, check, check, check, and check). During my chat with the doctor, after joking around about being the "special patient" with not one but two flues, I let out a few coughs. All of the doctors gave my doctor "the look." She came back to me with a surgical mask in hand, looked me dead in the eyes and said, "I'm sorry. Please don't hate me, but you have to wear this for the next five days." ACK!! Of course I started crying (there was a lot of emotion going on during the day. I think it was from being exhausted, feverish and sick). After filling out a bunch of forms and getting some medicine, my doctor told me I would now have to go to another hospital to get some type of a transfusion/medicine. Who knows, a lot gets lost in translation.
My doctor escorted me outside and asked a valet guy to give me a hand so the taxi driver would not up the charge for being a foreigner. The gimmick ended up being him telling the driver I just had surgery and couldn't talk. This way he would never know I was from the States! The drive ended up being a lot of gestures, nods and shakes. Interesting...
The next hospital visit is a story all on it's own.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Another One Bites the Dust - Monica and Spike
Yes, I'm at that age where it seems like everyone around me is getting engaged/married. A HUGE CONGRATS to Monica and Matt who are recently engaged within the past 24 hours!!
So happy for the two of you and wishing you the best of luck!
p.s. it was actually Spike's idea to incorporate a top 10 list every week into my blog. Too bad I've slowly nodded off on all the updates.
So happy for the two of you and wishing you the best of luck!
p.s. it was actually Spike's idea to incorporate a top 10 list every week into my blog. Too bad I've slowly nodded off on all the updates.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
I'm in LOVE...
With my new school!!! Long story short, my group had to change schools since our previous one already had an English teacher and we are required to teach one hour of English every week. So this morning while we were at school at the university everyone was pretty nervous we were going to have the same situation where the teachers questioned why we were there, complained they didn't have time for us, and didn't want to help us.
This new school is also two bus rides away except for it seems a lot closer than the last one. It's still located in my Zapopan "hood" and probably takes 45 minutes max. We arrived a bit early so we grabbed a few tacos and strawberry cheesecake at two places across the street from the school. Shortly after we arrived at the school, the principal came up to us and welcomed each and every one of us. Then we were each taken to our new classrooms which we will be in through December.
Luckily, I'm still in my favorite grade (second) and I only have 34 kids which is more than a 10 person difference than my previous 46! The teacher carried on with her lesson and absolutely blew me away. Here was a teacher which took one comment from one of her students about having 6 dogs and 2 cats and turns it around into a full out math situation for 2 hrs! She had control of the class, the children were respectful, they didn't run up to the teacher and interrupt her nor did they ask to go to the restroom every 5 minutes.
Half way through I began to think it was too good to be true. When were the kids going to get so bored they would start playing loudly, scream or stand on their desks? When was the teacher going to stop teaching and gossip about her kids in front of them about the multiple learning disabilities and personal lives? When was the teacher going to tell me that I'm wasting my time and should go home?
Never - Such a sigh of relief. When the school bell rang, I walked out smiling, hugging and my hands were shaking out of shock and complete happiness. Then the principal approached me in the play area and asked me to come with her to her office. I began to think, ut oh, what did I do wrong? Then, I walked in and she handed me a little box with flan! Although this school still lacks some resources, they are 110% change in the positive realm. So happy to be there and can't wait for the next 3.5 months.
Next week I am teaching Art, PE, English and Math each for one hour. My first actual lessons in front of the classroom, all of which are going to be in Spanish. I also volunteered yesterday to take on an additional class to teach one hour of English each week. So instead of having to only teach my second graders, I will now also be teaching a third grade class how to speak English. Super nervous and still creating the lesson plans. Hopefully it'll all go over smoothly.
Side note: When I first sat down in my class, I heard a whistle, looked over from where it was coming from and realized it was towards me. About 10 minutes later, the same little seven year old boy walked over and gave me candy with a wink. The rest of the class time he spent either staring at me or at my legs. They definitely start the whole flirting and wooing thing early down here!
This new school is also two bus rides away except for it seems a lot closer than the last one. It's still located in my Zapopan "hood" and probably takes 45 minutes max. We arrived a bit early so we grabbed a few tacos and strawberry cheesecake at two places across the street from the school. Shortly after we arrived at the school, the principal came up to us and welcomed each and every one of us. Then we were each taken to our new classrooms which we will be in through December.
Luckily, I'm still in my favorite grade (second) and I only have 34 kids which is more than a 10 person difference than my previous 46! The teacher carried on with her lesson and absolutely blew me away. Here was a teacher which took one comment from one of her students about having 6 dogs and 2 cats and turns it around into a full out math situation for 2 hrs! She had control of the class, the children were respectful, they didn't run up to the teacher and interrupt her nor did they ask to go to the restroom every 5 minutes.
Half way through I began to think it was too good to be true. When were the kids going to get so bored they would start playing loudly, scream or stand on their desks? When was the teacher going to stop teaching and gossip about her kids in front of them about the multiple learning disabilities and personal lives? When was the teacher going to tell me that I'm wasting my time and should go home?
Never - Such a sigh of relief. When the school bell rang, I walked out smiling, hugging and my hands were shaking out of shock and complete happiness. Then the principal approached me in the play area and asked me to come with her to her office. I began to think, ut oh, what did I do wrong? Then, I walked in and she handed me a little box with flan! Although this school still lacks some resources, they are 110% change in the positive realm. So happy to be there and can't wait for the next 3.5 months.
Next week I am teaching Art, PE, English and Math each for one hour. My first actual lessons in front of the classroom, all of which are going to be in Spanish. I also volunteered yesterday to take on an additional class to teach one hour of English each week. So instead of having to only teach my second graders, I will now also be teaching a third grade class how to speak English. Super nervous and still creating the lesson plans. Hopefully it'll all go over smoothly.
Side note: When I first sat down in my class, I heard a whistle, looked over from where it was coming from and realized it was towards me. About 10 minutes later, the same little seven year old boy walked over and gave me candy with a wink. The rest of the class time he spent either staring at me or at my legs. They definitely start the whole flirting and wooing thing early down here!
Guanajuato
Hello there beautiful town of different colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. Located about 3.5 hours away on a bus from Guadalajara, I made the trek to Guanajuato with six friends in my program two weeks ago to this quaint little town.
Isolated between a few "mountains" or hills, lays the town of Guanajuato. When we first arrived, we wandered around trying to find a place which would be able to accommodate such a large group for the weekend. We ended staying right near al centro at the Hostal Companero which had a dorm room with six bunk beds. Short one bed, Alex volunteered to sleep on the floor because he's "done it so many times and had worse." Alrighty, we all got settled in and then headed out to wander around the city and grab a bite to eat.
We ended up chowing down at a restaurant called Van Gough, only about a 5-10 minute walk away from our hostal located right in the main square. Mariachi bands circled the restaurants and played occasionally as we ate some of the local foods. After our delicious meal, we wandered around town to have a greater understanding of our surroundings. Exhausted from a long day, we went back to our hostal early and called it a night.
Saturday... a full jam packed Saturday. First we ate breakfast at a cute little place called Calipso. The food was decent and more Americanized. Then we were off to tour the city and see all it offered.
First off... the University. On the way to one of the museums, we stumbled across the local University. Knowing that our program was considering taking place in Guanajuato, we all looked up the huge stairs leading up to the main entrance in awe. After taking a mental picture, we then kept going to the house where artist Diego Rivera was born. The house included original furniture and collections of art amongst one of the three or four stories of multiple houses converted into one.
From here, we made our way to find Callejon del Beso. The story goes that two star crossed young lovers (think Romeo & Juliet) met their fatal end in the little alleyway. Legend has it that you must kiss your loved one on the third step or receive bad luck/fatal end to your love affair. After a quick pic with the girls, we trekked across town and uphill to check out the mummies. They are naturally mummified due to the soil content, temperature and humidity (I think). Some of it was creepy and other parts were cool. Just take it for what it is and I think it's enjoyable.
Afterwards, we ate and got ready for the night. Since it was one of our member's bday, Alex, we all attended a free modern dance and folklorico show put on by these girls we met at breakfast from NY. The performance was pretty impressive - displaying mainly the two types of dancing.
On Sunday, we ate brunch and took the funicular up to El Pipila before making our way back to GDL. Talk about a panoramic view:
Isolated between a few "mountains" or hills, lays the town of Guanajuato. When we first arrived, we wandered around trying to find a place which would be able to accommodate such a large group for the weekend. We ended staying right near al centro at the Hostal Companero which had a dorm room with six bunk beds. Short one bed, Alex volunteered to sleep on the floor because he's "done it so many times and had worse." Alrighty, we all got settled in and then headed out to wander around the city and grab a bite to eat.
We ended up chowing down at a restaurant called Van Gough, only about a 5-10 minute walk away from our hostal located right in the main square. Mariachi bands circled the restaurants and played occasionally as we ate some of the local foods. After our delicious meal, we wandered around town to have a greater understanding of our surroundings. Exhausted from a long day, we went back to our hostal early and called it a night.
Saturday... a full jam packed Saturday. First we ate breakfast at a cute little place called Calipso. The food was decent and more Americanized. Then we were off to tour the city and see all it offered.
First off... the University. On the way to one of the museums, we stumbled across the local University. Knowing that our program was considering taking place in Guanajuato, we all looked up the huge stairs leading up to the main entrance in awe. After taking a mental picture, we then kept going to the house where artist Diego Rivera was born. The house included original furniture and collections of art amongst one of the three or four stories of multiple houses converted into one.
From here, we made our way to find Callejon del Beso. The story goes that two star crossed young lovers (think Romeo & Juliet) met their fatal end in the little alleyway. Legend has it that you must kiss your loved one on the third step or receive bad luck/fatal end to your love affair. After a quick pic with the girls, we trekked across town and uphill to check out the mummies. They are naturally mummified due to the soil content, temperature and humidity (I think). Some of it was creepy and other parts were cool. Just take it for what it is and I think it's enjoyable.
Afterwards, we ate and got ready for the night. Since it was one of our member's bday, Alex, we all attended a free modern dance and folklorico show put on by these girls we met at breakfast from NY. The performance was pretty impressive - displaying mainly the two types of dancing.
On Sunday, we ate brunch and took the funicular up to El Pipila before making our way back to GDL. Talk about a panoramic view:
Monday, August 31, 2009
Tequila
I am definitely falling behind in updating my blog on all of my latest adventures and experiences here in Mexico. Now has come the time where I am slowly going to begin to summarize a few key points of my stay and travels. First up, TEQUILA...
While my parents were still here, we took a trip to the town of Tequila with IMAC, an intensive study abroad school located in Guadalajara. In total, the group only ended up being five students (the three of us included) and the driver. We took a large van to Tequila, which was a pleasant drive overlooking the countryside and mountain after mountain covered in blue agave (a.k.a. tequila plant). We visited two distilleries (one family owned and one more corporate and fancy). To sum it up simply, tequila tasting is just like wine tasting... minus all the wine. The agave plants covered the hills and even resembled vineyards in Sonoma at times. Two shots and a thumbs up to the tour from IMAC.
For my bday, I went back to Tequila with three friends in my program. Except this time we took the "Tequila Express" train to the town. What I was told was going to happen was all you can drink on the train, tours of distilleries, tastings, lunch, mariachi and folklorico dancing. Well... it was basically all true except for the tours and tastings. On the way to Tequila on the train, they gave us chicharrones to munch on and pre-made beverages in a can which included Tequila. A little suspicious...
Then we got to the distillery and walked around with a guided tour. Where in which the coolest part ended up being the original distillery built in the 1800's basically in a cave. Then we were led to an open area where we ate lunch from a buffet and watched the dancing and mariachi band. Afterwards, they boarded us back on the bus to go back on the train to head home.
In the end... I would recommend the Tequila Express for people and families who want to see all of it (music, tequila, food) in one day. I felt that the smaller and more personal guide was more bang for your buck and a memorable experience. Especially after I had such an amazing time with my parents and IMAC.
**Side note: The big plus about Tequila Express was that they kept giving the four of us more tequila on the way back. Annnd it ended up being more personalized with a private dance party once all of the other patrons got off the train. If this was included in a daily program, it would be a little more fun.
While my parents were still here, we took a trip to the town of Tequila with IMAC, an intensive study abroad school located in Guadalajara. In total, the group only ended up being five students (the three of us included) and the driver. We took a large van to Tequila, which was a pleasant drive overlooking the countryside and mountain after mountain covered in blue agave (a.k.a. tequila plant). We visited two distilleries (one family owned and one more corporate and fancy). To sum it up simply, tequila tasting is just like wine tasting... minus all the wine. The agave plants covered the hills and even resembled vineyards in Sonoma at times. Two shots and a thumbs up to the tour from IMAC.
For my bday, I went back to Tequila with three friends in my program. Except this time we took the "Tequila Express" train to the town. What I was told was going to happen was all you can drink on the train, tours of distilleries, tastings, lunch, mariachi and folklorico dancing. Well... it was basically all true except for the tours and tastings. On the way to Tequila on the train, they gave us chicharrones to munch on and pre-made beverages in a can which included Tequila. A little suspicious...
Then we got to the distillery and walked around with a guided tour. Where in which the coolest part ended up being the original distillery built in the 1800's basically in a cave. Then we were led to an open area where we ate lunch from a buffet and watched the dancing and mariachi band. Afterwards, they boarded us back on the bus to go back on the train to head home.
In the end... I would recommend the Tequila Express for people and families who want to see all of it (music, tequila, food) in one day. I felt that the smaller and more personal guide was more bang for your buck and a memorable experience. Especially after I had such an amazing time with my parents and IMAC.
**Side note: The big plus about Tequila Express was that they kept giving the four of us more tequila on the way back. Annnd it ended up being more personalized with a private dance party once all of the other patrons got off the train. If this was included in a daily program, it would be a little more fun.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Bucket List for Mexico
It's that time again! When I first arrived in Guadalajara, I scribbled out a few things I knew I would have to do before leaving. I'm only in Guadalajara till December so I created once again a new and shiny bucket list a.k.a. GDL "Fun List."
It's pretty rough, but here's what I have so far:
* Attend at least one Lucha Libre (Mexican wrestling with the really "cool" masks)
* Attend a few partidos (UAG and Chivas)
* Torros
* Zip lining through trees
* Tequila Express
* Oaxaca
* Ride bicycles in downtown GDL
* Salsa Dancing
All and any suggestions are more than welcome!
It's pretty rough, but here's what I have so far:
* Attend at least one Lucha Libre (Mexican wrestling with the really "cool" masks)
* Attend a few partidos (UAG and Chivas)
* Torros
* Zip lining through trees
* Tequila Express
* Oaxaca
* Ride bicycles in downtown GDL
* Salsa Dancing
All and any suggestions are more than welcome!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Day One: Student Teaching
Earlier this week, I started my first day at the school I will be student teaching at in GDL through December. I ended up having my friend Gabi with me the entire time the first day since administration was still figuring out placement for her classroom of first graders. Lucky us got to sit in on the first day of school for 45 students, where they drew pictures and discussed what they did during vacation and wrote from 1-100 and backwards on graph paper. First impression is that the kids, teacher and staff seem awesome.
However, there are definitely differences in the classroom which I immediately noticed. First off, every kid showed up with about four rolls of toilet paper and antibacterial soap! Also, some of the kids have to sit three to a desk (short table) since there is not enough room to just do two to a desk. The rules were not gone over on the first day and there was complete disorder during the entire three days I observed. When I spoke to the English teacher about the students' current level, he told me they are a strong group even at 45. He also said a classroom with 45 students in Mexico is considered normal and that I should check out the 5th grade class with 51 students!! Holy mackerel!
So I begin actually instructing in a week and a half. I'm supposed to start off with one hour of an English lesson and then there's a week in September where I will have to teach an hour of Art, PE and Math to the kids. The only thing that makes me nervous is controlling all of the kids at once. There is hardly any order in the classroom as is, with about five of them coming up every few minutes saying, "Maestra! Maestra! Puedo ir al bano??!!?!?"
Deep, even, breaths...
However, there are definitely differences in the classroom which I immediately noticed. First off, every kid showed up with about four rolls of toilet paper and antibacterial soap! Also, some of the kids have to sit three to a desk (short table) since there is not enough room to just do two to a desk. The rules were not gone over on the first day and there was complete disorder during the entire three days I observed. When I spoke to the English teacher about the students' current level, he told me they are a strong group even at 45. He also said a classroom with 45 students in Mexico is considered normal and that I should check out the 5th grade class with 51 students!! Holy mackerel!
So I begin actually instructing in a week and a half. I'm supposed to start off with one hour of an English lesson and then there's a week in September where I will have to teach an hour of Art, PE and Math to the kids. The only thing that makes me nervous is controlling all of the kids at once. There is hardly any order in the classroom as is, with about five of them coming up every few minutes saying, "Maestra! Maestra! Puedo ir al bano??!!?!?"
Deep, even, breaths...
Tapalpa
I spent this past Saturday and Sunday with two friends, Patty and Alex, in the town of Tapalpa located in the mountains outside of GDL. After a 3.5 hour bus ride, we arrived in the white washed and red tile roofed puebla with cobblestoned streets. Walking through the main plaza seemed almost too surreal. Not a single car allowed on the main street, vendors lined up and down selling the freshest fruits and meats, and almost complete silence. Coming from the crazy bustling city of GDL, I could already tell that Tapalpa was going to be a nice break from the big city.
Once we found a decently priced place to stay ($400 pesos among the three of us), we took a little rest and headed out on a little venture. First off… food. Patty and Alex ate at one of the local taco stands lined up on the side of the church. Once all of the tummies were full, we began our trek to Las Piedrotas (The Rocks) outside of Tapalpa. After about an hour walk uphill, we finally arrived at the plateau of the mountain to see… big rocks. Definitely anti-climatic, but we hung out on the rocks and took a few pics before our descent back into the city. After eating an early dinner, we sat in the main plaza and watched all of the families hang out, play with their kids, watch the fireworks above the church and listen to some music. This city is definitely a smaller town with zero to none nightlife. However, it was a great change of scene. Once we ate our churros in the plaza, we decided we should probably head back to our place to play cards and go to sleep early (around 10 p.m.).
After nine hours of sleep, we woke up to shower in our freezing cold water, check out of our hotel, and had breakfast at a nearby restaurant where we enjoyed hot cakes and chilaquiles. Next up on our itinerary was to get to the nearby waterfalls. We wandered around town trying to find Jesus Ruiz, a guy the locals told us to find by the church for a tour and ride to the falls. To no avail, we ended up back in the plaza asking for more exact directions on how to find him. Turns out he works in the funeral home across the church. But of course, how could we not know that! Welp, he was going to charge us $200 MXN each for a five hour tour. Although it sounded tempting, we definitely didn’t have five hours to spare nor the money to blow on the tour. So we ended up taking a taxi to the falls.
Originally we had asked for a one way fare, but after realizing how far away we would be and that it would be primarily uphill on the way back, the taxi driver agreed that he would come back to take us back into town. The drive there was absolutely beautiful. Green pastures, farm animals, small mountains and a little bit of an overcast. The trail down to the falls was almost completely downhill with muddy rocks. I knew this was going to be a problem for me going back to the top since I was already out of breath going down. When we finally arrived at the “falls” we were all a little stunned, yet not surprised. The falls were a merely 100 ft. Just like the rocks… anticlimactic. We all realized there HAD to be another waterfall nearby. Taking a small little trail, we then came across the actual waterfall. It wasn’t the biggest waterfall I had ever seen, but I guess it was worth the hike down to see muddy falls.
After about 30 minutes of hanging out on the rocks by the falls, we decided to make our way back up. I KNEW this was going to be an issue since I was already a little shaky and dehydrated. Sure enough, about 50 steps up I was already done. This ended up being an issue hiking all the way up and stopping about every 25 steps up since I was wheezing and out of breath. With a deadly combination of high altitude, being out of shape, and breathing issues, it probably wasn’t the best idea to do this hike or any hike for that matter. Patty and Alex were great friends who constantly waited for me, coached me through breathing issues and hiked with my backpack. I did make it to the top… eventually after about 45 minutes. And the rest of the day is just a sweaty blur. Just kidding.
Once we got back into town, we went to a restaurant to eat a little queso fundido, sopas and tacos. Patty and I also ordered their infamous “Ponche” which is an alcohol infused fruit drink made with guyaba or pomegranate. It ended up being absolutely delicious and we each ended up buying a bottle, a merely 60 pesos, to take home.
A few hikes, yummy meals, and a sweaty 30 hours later, we boarded back onto the bus and headed back to GDL, home sweet home.
Once we found a decently priced place to stay ($400 pesos among the three of us), we took a little rest and headed out on a little venture. First off… food. Patty and Alex ate at one of the local taco stands lined up on the side of the church. Once all of the tummies were full, we began our trek to Las Piedrotas (The Rocks) outside of Tapalpa. After about an hour walk uphill, we finally arrived at the plateau of the mountain to see… big rocks. Definitely anti-climatic, but we hung out on the rocks and took a few pics before our descent back into the city. After eating an early dinner, we sat in the main plaza and watched all of the families hang out, play with their kids, watch the fireworks above the church and listen to some music. This city is definitely a smaller town with zero to none nightlife. However, it was a great change of scene. Once we ate our churros in the plaza, we decided we should probably head back to our place to play cards and go to sleep early (around 10 p.m.).
After nine hours of sleep, we woke up to shower in our freezing cold water, check out of our hotel, and had breakfast at a nearby restaurant where we enjoyed hot cakes and chilaquiles. Next up on our itinerary was to get to the nearby waterfalls. We wandered around town trying to find Jesus Ruiz, a guy the locals told us to find by the church for a tour and ride to the falls. To no avail, we ended up back in the plaza asking for more exact directions on how to find him. Turns out he works in the funeral home across the church. But of course, how could we not know that! Welp, he was going to charge us $200 MXN each for a five hour tour. Although it sounded tempting, we definitely didn’t have five hours to spare nor the money to blow on the tour. So we ended up taking a taxi to the falls.
Originally we had asked for a one way fare, but after realizing how far away we would be and that it would be primarily uphill on the way back, the taxi driver agreed that he would come back to take us back into town. The drive there was absolutely beautiful. Green pastures, farm animals, small mountains and a little bit of an overcast. The trail down to the falls was almost completely downhill with muddy rocks. I knew this was going to be a problem for me going back to the top since I was already out of breath going down. When we finally arrived at the “falls” we were all a little stunned, yet not surprised. The falls were a merely 100 ft. Just like the rocks… anticlimactic. We all realized there HAD to be another waterfall nearby. Taking a small little trail, we then came across the actual waterfall. It wasn’t the biggest waterfall I had ever seen, but I guess it was worth the hike down to see muddy falls.
After about 30 minutes of hanging out on the rocks by the falls, we decided to make our way back up. I KNEW this was going to be an issue since I was already a little shaky and dehydrated. Sure enough, about 50 steps up I was already done. This ended up being an issue hiking all the way up and stopping about every 25 steps up since I was wheezing and out of breath. With a deadly combination of high altitude, being out of shape, and breathing issues, it probably wasn’t the best idea to do this hike or any hike for that matter. Patty and Alex were great friends who constantly waited for me, coached me through breathing issues and hiked with my backpack. I did make it to the top… eventually after about 45 minutes. And the rest of the day is just a sweaty blur. Just kidding.
Once we got back into town, we went to a restaurant to eat a little queso fundido, sopas and tacos. Patty and I also ordered their infamous “Ponche” which is an alcohol infused fruit drink made with guyaba or pomegranate. It ended up being absolutely delicious and we each ended up buying a bottle, a merely 60 pesos, to take home.
A few hikes, yummy meals, and a sweaty 30 hours later, we boarded back onto the bus and headed back to GDL, home sweet home.
Friday, August 21, 2009
My Assignment
Today everyone in class received the grade level and school they would be working at during the next five months. I sat in anticipation hoping the professor would say my name for a nearby school and a second grade classroom as one group was given their assignment. Then, finally I heard my name on a list and realized I would be in the second grade classroom based on the order she read off the names.
I immediately did two quick little arm pumps in the air and "quietly" said with a huge smile, "YESSSS! oops, I mean...." So, in three days I will finally be in a classroom where I will be observing and student teaching in Spanish through December. The school is located two bus rides away which looks like it will take at least one hour one way based on the map. No complaints from me though. I have my favorite grade and I don't have to take a bus all the way out to Tlaquepaque (about 1.5 hours away on bus) like other peers do.
Now comes the time of figuring out what to wear on the first day of school.
I immediately did two quick little arm pumps in the air and "quietly" said with a huge smile, "YESSSS! oops, I mean...." So, in three days I will finally be in a classroom where I will be observing and student teaching in Spanish through December. The school is located two bus rides away which looks like it will take at least one hour one way based on the map. No complaints from me though. I have my favorite grade and I don't have to take a bus all the way out to Tlaquepaque (about 1.5 hours away on bus) like other peers do.
Now comes the time of figuring out what to wear on the first day of school.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Bday Shout 081509
A very special bday shout out to a woman we all know and love all too well, LOLA!
During the past year, my grandma Lola has been featured quite a few times on this blog. She is known to be feisty, opinionated, outspoken, and "right" all the time. She is a woman full of wit and classy quotes we all have learned to love. She is also my grandmother whom I love dearly and couldn't imagine being who I am without her.
Unfortunately she had her latest spute being in the hospital for about a week last week. She's still fighting and kicking along the way. I'm only hoping that she'll remain out of the hospital and will look 10 times better than when I last saw her. Get well soon and...
Happy 77th Birthday, Lola!
During the past year, my grandma Lola has been featured quite a few times on this blog. She is known to be feisty, opinionated, outspoken, and "right" all the time. She is a woman full of wit and classy quotes we all have learned to love. She is also my grandmother whom I love dearly and couldn't imagine being who I am without her.
Unfortunately she had her latest spute being in the hospital for about a week last week. She's still fighting and kicking along the way. I'm only hoping that she'll remain out of the hospital and will look 10 times better than when I last saw her. Get well soon and...
Happy 77th Birthday, Lola!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Traveling Machine
I have one week off between semesters from Sept. 25 - Oct. 4 and am now in the process of booking flights to maximize my time off from school.
Here's the lowdown:
I will be in Mexico for a total of seven months and the stamp customs gave me is only good for a six month stay. This in mind, I need to check back into the states and return at some point during my six month period. Originally, I had no clue what I was going to do and thought it was going to be a waste of money. However...
One of my gf's from college, Michelle, just so happens to be getting married on Sept. 26th!! So now I'm waiting to hear back from my professor on whether or not we have finals on Thursday or Friday because I may be in LA even earlier than I previously thought. I'm extremely excited to be back in the states for a quick breath of clean air, clean streets, and clean water. Actually, come to think of it, LA slightly lacks the clean air and clean water part, but you get the idea.
So here's my tentative itinerary:
Thursday, Sept. 24: Fly out of GDL to LAX
Saturday, Sept. 26: Michelle's wedding in Malibu
Sunday, Sept. 27: Brunch and continuation of celebrating Michelle's new marriage
Monday, Sept. 28: Fly out of LAX to OAXACA
Tuesday, Sept. 29 - Oct. 3: Check out Oaxaca and the outlining areas
Sunday, Oct. 4: Fly out of OAX to GDL
Monday, Oct. 5: First day of Fall Semester at Autonoma
And tomorrow I'm headed to Guanajuato for a weekender with six other friends from my program. Whew! Ready, set, GO!
Here's the lowdown:
I will be in Mexico for a total of seven months and the stamp customs gave me is only good for a six month stay. This in mind, I need to check back into the states and return at some point during my six month period. Originally, I had no clue what I was going to do and thought it was going to be a waste of money. However...
One of my gf's from college, Michelle, just so happens to be getting married on Sept. 26th!! So now I'm waiting to hear back from my professor on whether or not we have finals on Thursday or Friday because I may be in LA even earlier than I previously thought. I'm extremely excited to be back in the states for a quick breath of clean air, clean streets, and clean water. Actually, come to think of it, LA slightly lacks the clean air and clean water part, but you get the idea.
So here's my tentative itinerary:
Thursday, Sept. 24: Fly out of GDL to LAX
Saturday, Sept. 26: Michelle's wedding in Malibu
Sunday, Sept. 27: Brunch and continuation of celebrating Michelle's new marriage
Monday, Sept. 28: Fly out of LAX to OAXACA
Tuesday, Sept. 29 - Oct. 3: Check out Oaxaca and the outlining areas
Sunday, Oct. 4: Fly out of OAX to GDL
Monday, Oct. 5: First day of Fall Semester at Autonoma
And tomorrow I'm headed to Guanajuato for a weekender with six other friends from my program. Whew! Ready, set, GO!
Monday, August 10, 2009
Bday Shout 081009
Today is my 26th birthday.
Not quite sure how I feel about turning 26 since I always looked at it as so much older when I was younger. I had an amazing weekend hanging out with friends, going out to anthros, and jumping on the tequila train to Tequila. However, now that it's the actual day of my bday, I'm sadly stuck indoors working on homework ALL DAY. I'm hoping to finish up within one hour so that I can at least grab one glass of wine to celebrate.
One thing which did brighten my day was all the Facebook love I've received from my family and friends. Last night I came home from going out after Tequila feeling pretty down about turning 26. I must admit that at first I wanted to delete the bday notification in the first place.
After coming home from school and facing a couple hours of homework full steam ahead, I signed on to FB to see about 40 new bday messages. Since then, seems like I've received about one new message every five minutes. I'm pretty amazed with the power of social networking, Internet, and connections.
I was also pleasantly surprised to see an album created by my dad, a new FB member. He created an album consisting of about 30 pics from when I was kid. If anything, this made me happy, sad, and wishing I could be home for my bday with my family. This was undoubtedly the first moment during my entire trip where I even vaguely wished I were home. It's all so bittersweet.
On that note, happy bday to me. Thank you to all of the friends and family for sending me amazing bday wishes!
Besitos...
Not quite sure how I feel about turning 26 since I always looked at it as so much older when I was younger. I had an amazing weekend hanging out with friends, going out to anthros, and jumping on the tequila train to Tequila. However, now that it's the actual day of my bday, I'm sadly stuck indoors working on homework ALL DAY. I'm hoping to finish up within one hour so that I can at least grab one glass of wine to celebrate.
One thing which did brighten my day was all the Facebook love I've received from my family and friends. Last night I came home from going out after Tequila feeling pretty down about turning 26. I must admit that at first I wanted to delete the bday notification in the first place.
After coming home from school and facing a couple hours of homework full steam ahead, I signed on to FB to see about 40 new bday messages. Since then, seems like I've received about one new message every five minutes. I'm pretty amazed with the power of social networking, Internet, and connections.
I was also pleasantly surprised to see an album created by my dad, a new FB member. He created an album consisting of about 30 pics from when I was kid. If anything, this made me happy, sad, and wishing I could be home for my bday with my family. This was undoubtedly the first moment during my entire trip where I even vaguely wished I were home. It's all so bittersweet.
On that note, happy bday to me. Thank you to all of the friends and family for sending me amazing bday wishes!
Besitos...
Thursday, August 6, 2009
School's NOT OUT for Summer
I have been lacking on updating my blog due to the overabundance amount of school and homework I've had in the past three weeks. My classes consist of 20 students, all of which are in my same program and are from California. Every morning, Monday through Friday, my classes begin bright and early at 8 a.m. Depending on the day, I may take anywhere from two to three classes which are ALL IN SPANISH. Trust me, I am definitely not bilingual... YET.
I understand the gist of majority of my classes, but I definitely get caught up on phrases or words which completely stump me. I swear one of my teachers talks without even pausing or taking a breath!!
So, long story short... after school, I eat a big lunch, take a 15 minute power nap and get down to the grind with my homework. Majority of my homework consists of a few hours of readings in Spanish on theory and discipline and anywhere from 30 minutes - 5 hours of writing!!
But don't worry. I'm still finding time to squeeze in a bit of leisure time with salsa classes twice a week and going out at least once a week.
I understand the gist of majority of my classes, but I definitely get caught up on phrases or words which completely stump me. I swear one of my teachers talks without even pausing or taking a breath!!
So, long story short... after school, I eat a big lunch, take a 15 minute power nap and get down to the grind with my homework. Majority of my homework consists of a few hours of readings in Spanish on theory and discipline and anywhere from 30 minutes - 5 hours of writing!!
But don't worry. I'm still finding time to squeeze in a bit of leisure time with salsa classes twice a week and going out at least once a week.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Bday Shout Out 080109 - BROTHER
A huge bday shout out to my favorite (and only) brother, PHILIP!! It's kind of weird being out of the country and not there for his birthday, so I'm hoping all of my shout outs via my blog, FB, and phone will suffice.
Brother, thanks for letting me call you brother. Thanks for always giving me what I wanted and letting me win when we were kids. Thanks for letting me bite you in the stomach and not getting mad at me when we were playing crocodiles. Thanks for tutoring me endlessly in Calculus for hours and hours. Thanks for being annoying when you drink. And THANK YOU for your secret indulgence and love for Gossip Girl and The Hills(oops).
HAPPY 29TH BIRTHDAY, SPILL-BOB!
Brother, thanks for letting me call you brother. Thanks for always giving me what I wanted and letting me win when we were kids. Thanks for letting me bite you in the stomach and not getting mad at me when we were playing crocodiles. Thanks for tutoring me endlessly in Calculus for hours and hours. Thanks for being annoying when you drink. And THANK YOU for your secret indulgence and love for Gossip Girl and The Hills(oops).
HAPPY 29TH BIRTHDAY, SPILL-BOB!
Monday, July 27, 2009
The Cure to a Hangover
After a Friday night filled with attending my first University futbol game, a special on beers, and going out with classmates afterwards, I was not quite feeling up to par Saturday morning/night. During dinner, people kept asking what was wrong with me. I finally revealed that I had a "resaca." About 15 minutes later, here's what happened...
THE CURE TO A MEXICAN HANGOVER
THE CURE TO A MEXICAN HANGOVER
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Quick Update
As you can imagine, things have been insane during my first two weeks in Mexico. Landing in Puerto Vallarta with my family, spending five days along the water, onward to Guadalajara (where we took part in an intensive language program for one week), seeing ALL the sites of GDL with my parents, and finally starting school at Autonoma ayer...
I will definitely be posting about all of my excursions (the jungle where Predator was filmed, a secluded island off the cost of PV, tequila tasting in Tequila, and much more) fairly soon. Unfortunately I have been slacking on electronic contact because the host family I´m currently living with is charging per person each month for Internet AND making us pay for our own toilet paper! So... I´m probably going to cave soon and pay the $100 pesos, but I still think I´m getting nickel and dimed by the senora. That being said, beginning today I am going to begin to wander around con mi companera to find a fully furnished, decently priced apartment near the university. The downfall of getting an apartment is that we´ll have to fend for ourselves and do all the cooking and cleaning. Living in the Zapopan area of Guadalajara is also further away from actual "city life", but since we have class EVERY MORNING at 8 a.m., it´s kind of a necessity to be close to campus. However, I think I´ll feel a lot more comfortable and independent if we actually find a place.
Wish me luck!!
I will definitely be posting about all of my excursions (the jungle where Predator was filmed, a secluded island off the cost of PV, tequila tasting in Tequila, and much more) fairly soon. Unfortunately I have been slacking on electronic contact because the host family I´m currently living with is charging per person each month for Internet AND making us pay for our own toilet paper! So... I´m probably going to cave soon and pay the $100 pesos, but I still think I´m getting nickel and dimed by the senora. That being said, beginning today I am going to begin to wander around con mi companera to find a fully furnished, decently priced apartment near the university. The downfall of getting an apartment is that we´ll have to fend for ourselves and do all the cooking and cleaning. Living in the Zapopan area of Guadalajara is also further away from actual "city life", but since we have class EVERY MORNING at 8 a.m., it´s kind of a necessity to be close to campus. However, I think I´ll feel a lot more comfortable and independent if we actually find a place.
Wish me luck!!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Puerto Vallarta - beaches, tequila and discotecas
I finally arrived in Guadalajara with my parents this past Sunday! We're staying with a host family for one week and taking Spanish classes at an intensive study abroad program here for a week before they leave me off on my own.
Prior to Guadalajara, we were in sunny, rainy, humid, tropical, and mosquito infested Puerto Vallarta for five days. I can proudly say that I now have a slight tan and had my share of tequila and Paloma's (a drink with lime juice and tequila) while I was in Vallarta.
During our stay in Vallarta, we took a "Predator" tour which took us to a tequila distillery and the tropics where the movie starring our governator was filmed. The tequila distillery was pretty cool, checking out all of the different steps in creating tequila and tasting about 5 different types (including almond, coffee with cinnamon, and regular). They also taught us how to check whether or not the tequila has too much water or sugar in the bottle based on the amount of bubbles! Pretty crazy.
After the tequila tour, we had a HUGE lunch and headed down to las cascadas (waterfalls/cascasdes between huge rocks). Philip decided to join locals and take the leap. My parents and I on the otherhand took the safe route and stayed up in the restaurant.
Aside from the humidity and 12 mosquito bites, Vallarta was an all around amazing trip. Pics to follow once I get Internet on my computer...
Prior to Guadalajara, we were in sunny, rainy, humid, tropical, and mosquito infested Puerto Vallarta for five days. I can proudly say that I now have a slight tan and had my share of tequila and Paloma's (a drink with lime juice and tequila) while I was in Vallarta.
During our stay in Vallarta, we took a "Predator" tour which took us to a tequila distillery and the tropics where the movie starring our governator was filmed. The tequila distillery was pretty cool, checking out all of the different steps in creating tequila and tasting about 5 different types (including almond, coffee with cinnamon, and regular). They also taught us how to check whether or not the tequila has too much water or sugar in the bottle based on the amount of bubbles! Pretty crazy.
After the tequila tour, we had a HUGE lunch and headed down to las cascadas (waterfalls/cascasdes between huge rocks). Philip decided to join locals and take the leap. My parents and I on the otherhand took the safe route and stayed up in the restaurant.
Aside from the humidity and 12 mosquito bites, Vallarta was an all around amazing trip. Pics to follow once I get Internet on my computer...
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Bon Voyage!
The time is finally here - Mexico. I'm currently sitting at SMF with my family waiting to board my flight to Puerto Vallarta. We will be in Puerto Vallarta sipping margaritas on the beach and tequila tasting for the next five days. Then, we are saying goodbye to my brother and jetting off to Guadalajara.
Known as "The City of Roses," home of the mariachi, located in the state of Jalisco, not too far from the town of Tequila (yes, they invented tequila), will be my home for the next six months.
On that note, I'd like to say, "Nos vemos" with a quick video primarily of my friend Mia dancing on Cinco de Mayo...
Viva Mexico!
Known as "The City of Roses," home of the mariachi, located in the state of Jalisco, not too far from the town of Tequila (yes, they invented tequila), will be my home for the next six months.
On that note, I'd like to say, "Nos vemos" with a quick video primarily of my friend Mia dancing on Cinco de Mayo...
Viva Mexico!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Bday Shout 060309
Due to a series of recent events (i.e. moving out of San Francisco, taking online classes, finals, and working PT), I have failed to update my blog on a continuous basis. With majority of the chaos finally coming to a close, I will be making an effort to update my blog once again. I am also planning on updating Down the Rabbit Hole while in Mexico instead of sending out mass e-mails to my family and friends. So if you want in on the loop, adventures, and tribulations down South, you may want to check back regularly beginning in July. On with the bdays...
I figured a bday shout for my mom is the best reason to jumpstart my blog once again. So, happy belated birthday, mom!! I hope you had a great day and find some time to veg out and relax the weekend. Love you!
I figured a bday shout for my mom is the best reason to jumpstart my blog once again. So, happy belated birthday, mom!! I hope you had a great day and find some time to veg out and relax the weekend. Love you!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Language - Pirate
One of my friends on FB posted on her status about Pirate talk being available as a language for the site:
Lizzie Keenan
1) Scroll to the bottom of your Facebook page. 2) On the bottom left corner, click English: US. 3) When the language selection appears, click English: Pirate. 4) Enjoy48 shots 'o rum ago
Let me tell you, I'm not sure if I'm ever going to switch it back. This is pretty funny and entertaining. Adds a little "umph" to my addiction.
Lizzie Keenan
1) Scroll to the bottom of your Facebook page. 2) On the bottom left corner, click English: US. 3) When the language selection appears, click English: Pirate. 4) Enjoy48 shots 'o rum ago
Let me tell you, I'm not sure if I'm ever going to switch it back. This is pretty funny and entertaining. Adds a little "umph" to my addiction.
Beerfest Recap
This past Saturday, I attended San Francisco's Beerfest at Fort Mason for the second time. As always, the beer poured endlessly for three hours, the crowds were drunken, the random cheers continued to roar, and everyone had a pretty awesome time.
One surprise of the evening was the Sierra Nevada guy remembering me and my friend, Kim, from last year. Not only did he hook us up again with t-shirts, but he also snuck us a few (six to be exact) additional bottled beers after the festival was over. Did I mention that he remembered my full name? Yeah, a little bit creepy and stalkerish.
The two downfalls I noticed from the festivities this year were the lack of food and claustrophobic shoulder to shoulder crowds. I'm not sure if it's because I was definitely slightly more sober and aware at Beerfest this year and noticed these two minor mishaps, or if I am accurately depicting the difference in a subpar crowd and lack of food.
Would I go again? Most definitely! Who can say no to three hours of tasting 100's of different beers, [maybe] tasting a few appetizers from local SF joints, and enjoying the craziness my friends and I create. Cheers and drink up!
One surprise of the evening was the Sierra Nevada guy remembering me and my friend, Kim, from last year. Not only did he hook us up again with t-shirts, but he also snuck us a few (six to be exact) additional bottled beers after the festival was over. Did I mention that he remembered my full name? Yeah, a little bit creepy and stalkerish.
The two downfalls I noticed from the festivities this year were the lack of food and claustrophobic shoulder to shoulder crowds. I'm not sure if it's because I was definitely slightly more sober and aware at Beerfest this year and noticed these two minor mishaps, or if I am accurately depicting the difference in a subpar crowd and lack of food.
Would I go again? Most definitely! Who can say no to three hours of tasting 100's of different beers, [maybe] tasting a few appetizers from local SF joints, and enjoying the craziness my friends and I create. Cheers and drink up!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Check me out - Lola
Today my grandma, Lola, spent a decent amount of money on new clothes at Marshall's and loves throwing on a fashion show, as any female would.While studying in the living room, my grandma came out of her room, lifted her shirt, slapped her stomach and said, “Look at my new pants.” She was so excited she could not stop smiling and decided to try on and show me the other two pants she bought in different colors.
After asking her why her tan pajama pants were so short, she replied with, “Well… it’s the style now.” I was soooo close to saying, “High waters are back in fashion?” But I decided she would not get the joke or sarcasm.
One pair of pants, the white capri's with a fashionable belt (pic to the left), were actually pretty cute for her style. Sadly, after realizing that the zipper was broken in her new black pair, she told me she's going to return it and buy a new pair with pinstripes. She also said the pockets in the black pants are great for going to the casino and saving her money and kleenex. :)
Mad props to Lola for changing up her wardrobe!
Bucket List Update: Wave Organ and Baker Beach
Check out the wave organ in the Marina: The wave organ is located right past the Marina yacht club. You have walk out onto this little peninsula and down a couple of steps until you hit the wave organ. Being at a little point, the organ had decent views of the City, Marina, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate bridge. Other than that, I was not too impressed with the organ. Although the organs were built with the idea of sound being created by wavelike motions, the tide was too low while I was there for the organs to make any sound. If the tide was higher, MAYBE I would have heard a little bit of sound, but it seemed unlikely since the few organs I looked at seemed to be stuffed with barnacles. Still kinda cool to check out and worth the bucket list of fun.
Play bocce ball at Baker Beach: Although I've been to Baker Beach before, I have never actually had a chance to play bocce while visiting the beach. This beach is tucked right between the Presidio and Sea Cliff which makes it an ideal little quiet spot in the big city. Despite the nudes the closer to the bridge you get, this beach is always beautiful and a perfect little getaway. Aside from the Golden Gate bridge off to one side, you never really feel like you're in SF. As always, an amazing beach and a must see for SF on a sunny day.
Play bocce ball at Baker Beach: Although I've been to Baker Beach before, I have never actually had a chance to play bocce while visiting the beach. This beach is tucked right between the Presidio and Sea Cliff which makes it an ideal little quiet spot in the big city. Despite the nudes the closer to the bridge you get, this beach is always beautiful and a perfect little getaway. Aside from the Golden Gate bridge off to one side, you never really feel like you're in SF. As always, an amazing beach and a must see for SF on a sunny day.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Oh Baby, Baby
Last Wednesday, I went with a few friends to the Circus in Oakland. If you're a fan of B.S., you understand that I attended the Britney concert! The four people I've always wanted to see in concert are Britney, JT, Madonna and Michael Jackson. I bought Britney tickets for my 21st birthday a few years ago, but of course that was the tour she ended up cancelling due to a "knee injury." So you can imagine how excited I was last Wednesday to finally see her perform.
The concert as a whole was amazing. Completely worth the amount of money I spent on nosebleed seats with a few just as excited friends. Since her latest album is titled, "Circus," in between songs she had a few performers from an actual circus entertain the crowd. From the Pussycat Dolls opening number, to elaborate costumes and routines, to Brit busting out her infamous/timeless tunes, I had a fantastic evening.
The concert as a whole was amazing. Completely worth the amount of money I spent on nosebleed seats with a few just as excited friends. Since her latest album is titled, "Circus," in between songs she had a few performers from an actual circus entertain the crowd. From the Pussycat Dolls opening number, to elaborate costumes and routines, to Brit busting out her infamous/timeless tunes, I had a fantastic evening.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Bucket List Update
During the past two weeks I have successfully completed about half of my bucket list! More to come later, but here's a quick little video of me and Kim on a GoCar tour passing by Baker Beach.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Bday Shout 040909
A HUGE bday shout to my friend, Kimbo Louie! She started celebrating her day with a few shots and margaritas at Tres Agaves. Continued on to the Giants game, 21st Amendment, Zeki's and Ambassador.
Happy bday, Kimbo!!!!! Hope your beernoculars are on with pride.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Bad Habit
I saw this "Smokers Pole" the other day outside of one of my neighborhood corner markets. There are two holes which I'm assuming are for smokers to put their sticks, but there was also smoke coming out of the pole. It made me think of a person and their lungs filling up with a ton of smoke.
I don't know what you think, but this pole was pretty humorous at the time and seemed to be pointless. People kept walking by and staring at the pole with confused expressions.
Monday, April 6, 2009
SF Bucket List
I know, I know. The term "Bucket List" means I'm about to kick the bucket, but I'm actually referring to the fact that I'm kicking the bucket out from under SF in two months! I've lived in SF for about two years and realized I have not taken advantage of the City and done many touristy things. With this in mind, I created a list that I call "Bucket" and refer to as SF "Fun" List for friends who oppose the original title. The list basically consists of tasks, landmarks, or silly things I would like to do in SF before I move out May 31st.
I've included the current list of tasks from my Bucket/Fun List below. All and any suggestions for additional tasks are more than welcome.
I've included the current list of tasks from my Bucket/Fun List below. All and any suggestions for additional tasks are more than welcome.
Twin peaks
Hike Mt. Tam (from beach and back)
Baker Beach
Find the beer garden + hike
Bike ride across GG Bridge
California Academy of Science
Visit Grace Cathedral
Irish Coffee at Buena Vista Cafe
Brunch at Top of the Mark
Brunch at Sam’s
Coit TowerLunch at the Cliff House and check out Sutro Baths
Walk through Chinatown
Rent a GoCar (self explanatory)
Friday, April 3, 2009
Bustin' Moves
I apologize for completely slacking and not updating the blog often during the past couple of weeks. Filling out applications, going through a group interview in Spanish, and taking the ridiculous CSET with only a week and a half to study all in the month of March, you can imagine how crazy things have been lately.
Well, now everything is done. I am still waiting to receive the "official" word that I have been accepted into the program, but I have received the unofficial official word from a professor so I'm beginning to get ready for my trip studying and student teaching abroad in Guadalajara.
I have two months to get all of my papers organized, take two online prerequisite courses, become certified in adult and child CPR, take a Spanish refresher course, move out of my SF apartment, and fly down to Guadalajara by July 19! Phew. Still a ton to do and I know that I will be in Mexico before I even know it.
I am incredibly excited to have such an amazing opportunity and am looking forward to the trip/program immensely. I guess Down the Rabbit Hole will now focus on my crazy everyday life in Guadalajara come July. I am absolutely certain that I will come across silly, shocking, and life changing experiences while I am abroad.
Salud!
Well, now everything is done. I am still waiting to receive the "official" word that I have been accepted into the program, but I have received the unofficial official word from a professor so I'm beginning to get ready for my trip studying and student teaching abroad in Guadalajara.
I have two months to get all of my papers organized, take two online prerequisite courses, become certified in adult and child CPR, take a Spanish refresher course, move out of my SF apartment, and fly down to Guadalajara by July 19! Phew. Still a ton to do and I know that I will be in Mexico before I even know it.
I am incredibly excited to have such an amazing opportunity and am looking forward to the trip/program immensely. I guess Down the Rabbit Hole will now focus on my crazy everyday life in Guadalajara come July. I am absolutely certain that I will come across silly, shocking, and life changing experiences while I am abroad.
Salud!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Awwwwk
When in awkward situations, I have a slight tendency to make the situation even more awkward. The other day I skimmed my "Groups" on Facebook and noticed that I joined an "Awkward..." group back in college. I can't believe I've always hated, yet equally loved, awkward situations.
The description reads: "This group is for anyone who often finds themselves in awkward situations, conversations, or circumstances. This group is also for anyone who believes awkwardness defines their life, or anyone who finds awkward situations entertaining."
Awesome.
The description reads: "This group is for anyone who often finds themselves in awkward situations, conversations, or circumstances. This group is also for anyone who believes awkwardness defines their life, or anyone who finds awkward situations entertaining."
Awesome.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Luck o the Irish
Happy St. Patty's Day to all! I can't believe that it has already been four years to the day since I was in Ireland for St. Patty's Day. While I was abroad, Ireland was one of my favorite countries to visit. Filled with extremely friendly people, an accent, love for beer, and green everywhere, who wouldn't love the country?
I met up with my friend in Dublin for one crazy weekend. We quickly made friends with locals and tourists and hit up the town. Turns out that at the time, Ireland had just started celebrating the holiday with a huge parade, day off, etc. Apparently the holiday was built up to be more of an American holiday...
Here are two pics from the crazy day of drinking Guinness all day and sporting Leprechaun hats. As they say in Ireland, Slainte!
I met up with my friend in Dublin for one crazy weekend. We quickly made friends with locals and tourists and hit up the town. Turns out that at the time, Ireland had just started celebrating the holiday with a huge parade, day off, etc. Apparently the holiday was built up to be more of an American holiday...
Here are two pics from the crazy day of drinking Guinness all day and sporting Leprechaun hats. As they say in Ireland, Slainte!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Oooooh Lola
Quick study break with a little light humor.
Lola has been spending all week with her cousin and her family since I'm pretty tied up with all of this crazy studying. On Monday, when I was getting her ready to go out the door and onto her cousin's house, I grabbed her hat and gloves off the chair to put on. When I picked up her gloves, I felt something hard hidden inside. I looked at Lola and asked what was there. She grabbed the gloves out of my hand and angrily said, "Give me those!" I chuckled, apologized, and asked again if she could put on her gloves since it was cold outside. While I was trying to explain to her how cold it was outside, Lola stormed off as fast as she could with her walker towards the front door. Her response to my request was, "Go back to studying! Leave me alone. I'm leaving for a week so that you can study. Mind your own business and go back to studying." Another interesting fact about Lola is that she never likes to be put on the spot and gets frustrated when she doesn't know something or when you try to call her out on something.
Welp, it turns out that she was hoarding a knife in her gloves! She took the knife from the dining room table and was going to bring the knife with her "just in case." Also to "protect herself from evil." Interesting. Oh Lola...
UPDATE 031209 at 8:39 p.m.: Went to dinner with my mom tonight who revealed that Lola DID NOT hide a knife in her gloves. My mom spoke to Lola's cousin about whether or not she found the knife, but it turns out the hard object ended up being a plastic spatula so that she could scratch her back! Lola decided to "lie for her life" and agreed that she took a knife so that she would not get in trouble for scratching her back and leaving scratch marks. What gets me is the elaborate excuse she gave my mom about protecting herself and not wanting to see the demons late at night. Stop while you're ahead, Lola.
Lola has been spending all week with her cousin and her family since I'm pretty tied up with all of this crazy studying. On Monday, when I was getting her ready to go out the door and onto her cousin's house, I grabbed her hat and gloves off the chair to put on. When I picked up her gloves, I felt something hard hidden inside. I looked at Lola and asked what was there. She grabbed the gloves out of my hand and angrily said, "Give me those!" I chuckled, apologized, and asked again if she could put on her gloves since it was cold outside. While I was trying to explain to her how cold it was outside, Lola stormed off as fast as she could with her walker towards the front door. Her response to my request was, "Go back to studying! Leave me alone. I'm leaving for a week so that you can study. Mind your own business and go back to studying." Another interesting fact about Lola is that she never likes to be put on the spot and gets frustrated when she doesn't know something or when you try to call her out on something.
Welp, it turns out that she was hoarding a knife in her gloves! She took the knife from the dining room table and was going to bring the knife with her "just in case." Also to "protect herself from evil." Interesting. Oh Lola...
UPDATE 031209 at 8:39 p.m.: Went to dinner with my mom tonight who revealed that Lola DID NOT hide a knife in her gloves. My mom spoke to Lola's cousin about whether or not she found the knife, but it turns out the hard object ended up being a plastic spatula so that she could scratch her back! Lola decided to "lie for her life" and agreed that she took a knife so that she would not get in trouble for scratching her back and leaving scratch marks. What gets me is the elaborate excuse she gave my mom about protecting herself and not wanting to see the demons late at night. Stop while you're ahead, Lola.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Caffeine is NOT my friend
I spent six hours today studying at Starbucks and ended up seeing what I drank come back up again. I know, pretty disgusting and most likely TMI (Too Much Information). Since I'm allergic to caffeine, I should've known better and only ordered one cup of coffee. Buzz, negativo.
In my defense, I woke up in such a daze this morning and was still exhausted this afternoon that I convinced myself I needed the extra dosage and cup. Well everyone, I am now laying on my couch at home feeling like I am going to vomit (again), with every strand of my hair smelling like Starbucks making me relive the horrible afternoon.
Guaranteed I will be getting coffee or tea again tomorrow. It's cutting down to the final two days before this H-E-double hockey sticks is over.
Back to studying and reteaching myself life science, earth science and history. BLAH.
In my defense, I woke up in such a daze this morning and was still exhausted this afternoon that I convinced myself I needed the extra dosage and cup. Well everyone, I am now laying on my couch at home feeling like I am going to vomit (again), with every strand of my hair smelling like Starbucks making me relive the horrible afternoon.
Guaranteed I will be getting coffee or tea again tomorrow. It's cutting down to the final two days before this H-E-double hockey sticks is over.
Back to studying and reteaching myself life science, earth science and history. BLAH.
Nerd
This week has been a long and what seems to be a never-ending study session. I'm not planning on posting this week with all of the cramming and chaos I have to do within the last 72 hours.
I have a group interview on Friday in Spanish for a teaching credential program I applied to with six months in Guadalajara. I also have the CSET to take on Saturday which is making my brain turn to mush. The CSET is basically a test that every teacher must take and covers almost everything you could have possibly learned from K-12th grade. The test is comprehensive covering subjects such as History, Life Science, Geometry and Visual and Performing Arts. While studying I discovered that I am a true self-proclaimed nerd and enjoy the math section the most! The subject I used to hate I now find fun and am happy when I figure out little problems.
In a nutshell, I've only had two weeks to prep and am on overload. I can't wait for Saturday at 1 p.m. when all of this is over.
Hasta luego!
Monday, March 9, 2009
Amtrak - Crapshoot
This past weekend I took Amtrak round trip from Sac to SF. While waiting to board the train in Sac, a twenty-something y/o girl asked if the train in front of us was for SF. After telling her it was, I assumed our conversation would be over. Boy, oh boy was I wrong. She proceeded to ask me little questions such as, "Where are you getting off?" and "Do you have a taxi phone number for when I get to Emeryville?" The shocker was when she asserted, "I am going to sit next to you."
This caught me by surprise because there were maybe five people waiting to get on the train. Being sick, I was not exactly in the mood to chit chat or sit next to somebody on a train only carrying five people. I told her that my plan was to sleep the entire trip and that I would not be the best company. She said she understood, but her personality was to sit next to me. Hmm...
So I got onto the train, picked two seats and put my luggage in one of the seats to make it clear she would not be sitting next to me. She chuckled and took the seat across the aisle from me. After about five minutes I fell asleep, but every time I woke up or glanced over she was staring right at me! A little creepy.
I generally enjoy taking Amtrak for the quick hour and forty minute ride from Sac to SF. Sometimes I'm lucky and get a seat to myself, or sometimes I get stuck sitting next to a chill person. This time I was not so lucky. Seems like Amtrak is a crapshoot. You could be lucky or you could be miserable.
This caught me by surprise because there were maybe five people waiting to get on the train. Being sick, I was not exactly in the mood to chit chat or sit next to somebody on a train only carrying five people. I told her that my plan was to sleep the entire trip and that I would not be the best company. She said she understood, but her personality was to sit next to me. Hmm...
So I got onto the train, picked two seats and put my luggage in one of the seats to make it clear she would not be sitting next to me. She chuckled and took the seat across the aisle from me. After about five minutes I fell asleep, but every time I woke up or glanced over she was staring right at me! A little creepy.
I generally enjoy taking Amtrak for the quick hour and forty minute ride from Sac to SF. Sometimes I'm lucky and get a seat to myself, or sometimes I get stuck sitting next to a chill person. This time I was not so lucky. Seems like Amtrak is a crapshoot. You could be lucky or you could be miserable.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Rumor...?
Rumor has it that someone will be at Club MIX tonight in Sacramento. I'm trying to figure out all the details, but I will most likely be posting it at the bar hoping to "randomly" run into the guy.
I'm thinking that it could be true since all of the rumors were true about the Bachelor. However, this rumor is from word spreading on FB. I'll take my chances. After all, a few weeks ago the Governator was there on a random Wednesday night.
Wish me luck!
I'm thinking that it could be true since all of the rumors were true about the Bachelor. However, this rumor is from word spreading on FB. I'll take my chances. After all, a few weeks ago the Governator was there on a random Wednesday night.
Wish me luck!
UPDATE 5:27 p.m.: N'Sync's Bye, Bye, Bye just played randomly on my iTunes as soon as I published this post. I definitely believe in signs...
UPDATE 03.05.09: My brother and I ended up staying at club MiX for about three hours. About an hour into our glass of wine, the club started playing JT's DVD of one of his tours. My brother and I were thinking no way is this a coincidence. I then ran into my friend Autumn's sister, Jessica, who said when she first walked in around 8 p.m., they played two of JT's songs back to back. Coincidence? I still was not convinced.
We finally met a couple who validated the rumor because they knew the club owner and head of security. They also said that JT's people called MiX's people and asked to reserve a section because he would be making an appearance. The head of security motioned to us the VIP section they saved for JT, but he ended up being a no show. According to the head of security, when they receive head's up notices like this, it's usually a 50-50 chance the celebrity will actually show up.
Until next time...
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