HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE GREATEST MOM!!!! :) :) :) :) :) Today my mama celebrated a big day, and I'm sad I wasn't home to celebrate. I know she had a fun day spent with family and friends that are so special to her, so she surely had a fun day! I was able to Skype and make a phone call home (from the beach, not bad!!) to talk but I still wish I could have been there! What an amazing woman God chose to be my mom. I am beyond thankful for all that she has done and continues to do for our family, her many friends, co-workers, students, groups and organizations, and strangers. Everyone knows my mom loves to go above and beyond in extraordinary ways - and by doing so she has made growing up that much more fun and memorable! You deserve the absolute best year, mom! I love you SO much!! I love the passage of Proverbs 31 and these verses are so true of my mom. The Lord will honor her when she enters His Kingdom, for with her caring and faithful personality she has done great things.

"She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many woman do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate." Proverbs 31:26-31 

After emerging from my hammock this morning, my body covered in the imprint of little squiggly lines! I think I did really well with my Spanish oral presentation, and Ana commented how proud she is of how our Spanish skills are progressing! After classes a group of four other friends and I graced the beach with our presence today!! It was a breezy day so not as warm as it is here in Mérida, the water was as warm as a bathtub (but still refreshing), and there were major waves!! It was a fun time, and the beach was pretty busy!

Early this evening I was able to Skype a few friends from home - always fun to see their familiar faces and catch up - gotta love technology! After showering and removing the alternating layers of sand and sunscreen, I walked to the Central House to meet up with friends! We headed to La Parranda, which has become one of our favorite hangout places - it is a restaurant that has live music at night, some dancing, and always a good time! The lead female singer tonight insisted that the table with Americans get up and dance, so after some prodding, I dragged everyone up and we busted out a few moves. Still waiting for the time they'll play a song from our dance class, then we'll really show that place some good moves :)

Cones melt quick in 106 degree weather

Today a few of the Spanish classes got together and watched El Estudiante, a wonderful film that I would highly recommend!! I don't know if they offer it with English subtitles or not though, but it captures a man in his upper 70s or maybe 80s who goes back to take classes at a university, and how he forms relationships with a small group of students. Really enjoyed it, and a fun break from the usual class mode! My professor, Ana came up to me before class and asked if I was surviving the heat, and she emphasized how much hotter today would be (high of 106). I said I was making it, but she asked if I would like a ride home, and I couldn't turn down that offer! So after class she took me home in her air conditioned car :) What a life saver - I was so appreciative! She used to live near my house, so we took a detour to see her old home!

This afternoon my mom was gone at a educational workshop, so I had the house to myself! I made some lunch and just relaxed around home, watched an episode of TV, practiced for my Spanish oral presentations (the topic is my spring break on Isla Holbox), Skyped my friend Jacoby, and took a little siesta! Then Katelynn and I went to get ice cream today, since we didn't on Monday (wouldn't want to miss a week :)). It was busy, since it's such a warm day! I got my coconut ice cream in a cone instead of the usual dish... but then realized I maybe shouldn't have done this on the hottest day yet, but delicious nonetheless! We also tried the coco agua fresca... Good stuff, and very refreshing on a day like today! We walked to the Central House and worked on our songs for the play after!

Tonight at dance was sweatttttttty, but so fun! Veronica was cracking up at everything and anything we said or did, I don't know why she finds us so funny? :) We are moving quick, but I enjoy the exercise, laughs, and the whole rhythm of being back in dance! I got home and headed straight for the shower. I took a cold shower, but still, within 30 seconds (literally) of being out, I was wet with sweat. Bummmmmer. The weather predicts a bit of a "cool" down, with some rain coming, which I would love, but now things are maybe changing... who ever knows with the weather? What I do know, is it's time for me to hit the hammock!

The word on the street is...

Unbearable. It's hot... And I'm proud to report that it's not just the Americans who haven't acclimated to the element. Today five of my Mexican friends said this is some insane heat, they even admitted to be dying a little! Not only does this validate my frequent comments that it is indeed hot, but I also now am concerned that if Mexicans are saying this is hot, what is to come??? I don't think what's going to hit us in April is in my vocabulary yet... it's something I've clearly never experienced :) I have the phrase "No estoy acostumbrada a este clima... es cero grados con nieve en Minnesota ahora!" memorized. Telling whoever brings up the topic of weather that "I'm not used to this weather... it's zero degrees (Celcius) with snow in Minnesota right now!" Tomorrow my weather forecast tells me there will be a high of 104. Not much else to say about that. My mom brought out my hammock today - she says I'll probably be needing it, as Mexicans are beginning to put away their bed sheets, and hang the hammocks.

Today was a busy day - we have a student from Cornell College doing a month here - her name is Juana, and since Cornell does a different class schedule (one class straight for 3.5 weeks), she needs to do a unique study abroad schedule that fits, so Val allowed her to come through Central and work with her. She will just be doing an internship, no classes, and it turns out she's doing it through Sol y Luna so I took her to show her the ropes and help her with the buses. After being home for a few hours I headed back out to go to La Academía, where I had a fantastic night with my students! I organized an activity with my language groups to get to know some more information about them, and for them to practice their English speaking. They love learning, they know knowing about me, they love asking questions about the United States. It's fun! Next week they want me to bring my computer so we can look at pictures of my home, family, MN, Drake, friends, etc!

Today my Spanish tests went well - the first hour's test was pretty long, and we all only completed half of the test which was all analysis of things we've done and read in class, so we had to bring it home to finish. That's what I did for part of my evening, as well as worked on some stuff for next semester at Drake - figuring out my fall schedule, etc. It's a) hard to think/focus on next semester when I'm caught up in this semester b) difficult to talk with advisors and professors from abroad and c) a reality check that reality is coming. Prayers would be appreciated as I work through what seems like an impossible mess of credits, requirements, schedules, etc. I know it will all come together, and as always, God is faithful.

I'm going to be on Broadway... Sort of... Not.

Today was hot. Oops - I'm trying to not bring it up, but the thermometer is too hard to deny. Wowzers!

We met as a large group during our normal class time with Val to discuss plans for our play. Usually Val will have each student write a long research paper about a contemporary Mexican issue. Way back in the beginning however, we read the story The Corn Grows Ripe and while visiting the real milpa in the village of Tinum, I made a few jokes about us producing a Broadway musical based on the events of the story, after receiving firsthand experiences with the Mayans. It all started when I was belching "In the milpa the mighty milpa the Mayans sleep tonight". Val quickly caught on to the idea... At first we thought she was joking, but turns out she was absolutely serious. Now instead of us all writing papers for the final, we will be performing The Corn Grows Ripe adorned with a few songs and choreography, costumes, etc. Each of us have parts, and I'm in charge of making the songs (changing lyrics from current songs to be more milpa or corn related... rock on)! I'll also be playing the part of Tigre (the main character)'s mother. Hold the applause... I have like three lines. It's been fun so far, and I'm happy to say it wasn't until now that we're facing the most stress between our group! Not bad! So while Val's away, and we don't have our Contemporary Mexico class as usual, we are cramming to make progress! The plan is to perform this play during our final week here, and invite al of the host families, staff, teachers, etc. What have we gotten ourselves into??

This afternoon Katelynn came over and watched The Three Amigos, a movie with Steve Martin. It was awful - sooooo weird. Haha, it was entertaining because we're in Mexico, etc. But nothing I need to see again :) Later tonight my mom says to me "How was the movie? They sure did portray Mexico in an interesting way!" Yes indeed.

Tomorrow I have the written portion of my Spanish exam - not too worried, but spent some time studying nonetheless! I have also been preparing myself for the journey and walking I'll do downtown tomorrow in the heat to get to my internship and volunteering, watch out heat!

Traditions and Routines

I love that I'm at the point where each week isn't a total surprise, or full of unknowns. Of course some afternoons and weekends include new excursions or spontaneous adventures, but I'm at the point where I have my routine. This is what reminds me that we're not just passing through, we're not just tourists here for a week or two, but instead this is our life here, this is our home. I know that on Sundays I'll have Pollo Rico for lunch. Mondays I'll go to La Gran Michocana for ice cream. Tuesdays I have my internship and volunteer jobs. Wednesdays I'll usually do laundry, then I'll make my dinner to go, and eat it at the Central House before I learn new dance moves. Thursdays I'll fill my free afternoon with some sort of activity. Friday or Saturday I'll go to the beach. I know to be home for lunch at 1:30. I know I'll be drinking fresh squeezed orange juice every morning for breakfast. I know Pati will be watching her telenovelas certain days when I come home from school. I know Ana will start each day in Spanish class by asking us how are afternoons were the day before. I can expect my security guard friend who watches a house down the street, to greet me when I walk by. I know the huge German Shepherd will bark when I pass him on the way to school in the morning. I know I'll smell some tasty Yucatecan dish cooking when I enter the house after school. I will see Carlos sweeping the Central property when I walk into school, always smiling and listening to his music. I know to have small change, because for one, things are not too expensive here, and secondly tipping is done frequently here. I know it takes five minutes to get to El Circuito, five more to La Glorieta, and five more to Central. I have become immune to the vendors and restaurants begging for our business when we visit the beach at Progreso. I know how to find the perfect hammock, and lay in one, correctly. I know to walk under the "pooping trees" quickly - the row of five trees that are filled with hundreds of birds at night. I know the ins and outs of bargaining. I now look for the three-legged dog, and three-legged cat that usually stroll the street at night. I am not phased by the honks as I walk down El Circuito or El Paseo. I know how to navigate the bus system. I know Roberto comes Saturday mornings to clean our home. I now think in Pesos, not US Dollars. I know about a part of Mexico that I barely knew existed two months ago.

It's fun being a temporary local!! Today I spent the day doing homework things, hanging around home, watching Beethoven with my mom, reading El Diario de Yucatán (the Star Tribune newspaper of the Yucatán), hanging out with friends, and studying and preparing for a few tests this week. Of course I had Pollo Rico for lunch! Val left this morning for Pella (Iowa) and later Boston - to visit Central's campus for a director's conference, and then go to Boston for some other study abroad type event/meeting. She won't be back until April 10th, so for the next two weeks we are in Claudina (the administrator)'s hands. This week should be a normal one, with increasing heat of course, and I'll stay busy with my usual activities. There will be a few fun and exciting things taking place which I'll keep you up to date on! After a fun and relaxing weekend, it's time to get into the school mode once again!

This I grabbed off my computer's screen
See, I'm not lying!

Fiesta at Central

This weekend is on fire!!! Meaning, it's been a good one - lots of fun and activity!! This morning I went early to the beach! A good sized group was there, once everyone showed up! The nine of us spent a good chunk of time in the actual water, since the sun was the hottest I have ever felt it at Progreso!! Craziness! I left to come home and Skype with my family! Both sides were together, celebrating my mom and uncle's birthday!! It was good to talk with them, and nice for them to see me! Makes me miss not being able to be there, but glad for technology that I'm able to talk with everyone so easily! I made sure someone promised to eat a slice of cake for me :) I spent the afternoon working on a few homework things! This evening it was a super fun time at the Central House. Nine of us were around the house, and we just hung out and spent time all together! It's rare that on a weekend such a large group is all in the same place, so that was fun! Some people made homemade macaroni and cheese, then we just sang our little hearts out, and danced along, to any song that came to mind. Poor Pancho, the doorman, who had to listen to our horrid voices :) The evening included Katelynn and I demonstrating some of our newest dance class moves while others ate. Dinner AND a show, wow! We're seeing if Chanhassen Dinner Theaters is hiring! When we all hang out together like that, it's sooooo wonderful, but the fact that May 8th will be here so soon, always comes up in conversation! Everyone is so sad to even think about the idea of us leaving and going back to our perspective homes and schools. We've all become like a family, truly, and saying goodbye and leaving our Mexican life will be so so so sad. I continue to be so thankful for this group that God has placed me in, and the relationships that have been formed. Even Val says how impressed she is by the way our group gets along. It's rare that a group of sixteen students will mesh so well, be so inclusive, and face so few problems! Makes the time here so much more enjoyable!

I Love China

Another wonderful day filled with such a variety!! After some hot cakes (as they're called here - but pronounced hoat or hote cakes... which I rarely remember to say) for breakfast, Katelynn and I decided it was time to brave the heat and explore. We dressed in a way that would be the least unbearable when the sweat came, and headed out. We ended up at Gran Plaza - a mall about two and a half miles away! We were just trucking along and once we got far enough, we figured we may as well keep going! It was really fun to see some places along the way that we usually just fly by on a bus or car, and we enjoyed looking around the mall! We took the easy way out, and rode the bus home, more or less because we were on a time crunch! I quickly showered, ate lunch, and then walked over to the Central House. This afternoon I helped Val interview four Mexican university students who were applying to be language assistants at Central College (the actual campus in Pella, IA) next year. There was a panel of myself and three other study abroad program students, who talked in Spanish and English to gage who would be best for the position. I fell in love with them all, but we had to make a decision since only three could be accepted. I told the students who actually attend Central during the usual school year, that they need to send these language assistants to Minneapolis and I'll show them around - they are such sweet people, eager to help, learn about the US, and share their skills! I think they'll do wonderful at Central next year! Then it was a quick turn around as Kayla, Katelynn, and I went downtown to see a play that was at Casa de la Cultura. A student that Katelynn teaches at La Academia (English school) was in the production so we went to support her! It was a bit of an odd thing, a few short plays, most of which we were pretty sure we wouldn't have even followed if they were in English - but an experience nonetheless! After we went to dinner at a cute little restaurant near Plaza Grande downtown. After walking around a bit, we took the bus back to the Central House. There we hung out with the China program director, Shumin and became fascinated with the Chinese language and culture - it is some crazy stuff. We had her translate our names into Chinese characters, and it turns out mine is equal to "beautiful horse" - I was born in the year of the horse... Coincidence? I think not :) I've never had a huge desire to go to China - but after tonight I'm all for a trip!! Shumin wants me to study abroad there on her program, but I'm not so sure about that! An all around good and busy day!! Tomorrow will most definitely be a beach day! Here are some picture I thought I'd share.

Me, Shumin, Katelynn - with our Chinese knot decorations,
and information about our names in Chinese

Looking right out our gate at my house

Looking down the street (the black gate on the left is my house)

My house (the machines are generators my brother rents for his business)

El Hogar

I filled my day with a good variety of activities after my morning class! Spent some time with friends, then headed home for lunch and the daily offering of the telenovela (soap opera) that my mom and I watch most days! I spent a few hours just resting and relaxing, watching a show, reading, etc - which always feels good!! In the late afternoon I went with my mom to El Hogar, where she volunteers twice a week at the home for teen girls who come from troubled homes or backgrounds. Very few have both parents, some have neither, and whatever source of parenting they do have, or had in the past, has been in most cases a very bad influence and the source of most problems. These girls are aged 12 through 18. They are all such pretty girls who just need a bunch of love and attention! They live at El Hogar, with three women who run the home, where they also have their meals, activities, support, and a psychologist. They go to a school for classes. Pati, my mom, mostly does testing of both academics/learning and personality/emotional aspects. When we got there all the girls were together listening to a music group that was visiting, so after she introduced them all to me. She explained where I'm from, that I'm living with her, and that I'm here to help them with whatever they need, as well as chat, and practice English if they'd like! At the end she asked if there were any questions/comments right away - and one girl shot up her hand real quick and in Spanish said, "Well I just wanted to say that Emily, I think you have really beautiful eyes!" Probably not exactly what Pati was looking for, nor what I was expecting, but cute nonetheless! After my mom showed me around, I met the psychologist and we all chatted for a while. Later I worked with Cindi. She is 16 and needed help with her English work. Her textbook seemed fairly advanced for only being in her second year (ever) of English classes - but I figured she must just be really good! She struggles most with pronunciation so we went to the back of the book where there were pages with short dialogs printed out. She wanted to read through them and I could help her when she got stuck. Before we started I tried having a conversation with her in English, but I learned she must just be very frustrated during class, because she doesn't have nearly any communication skills near what her book depicts. So we stuck to Spanish, except for when she was reading. It took us about an hour to read through the two pages, but I could tell as we went along that she was getting better, more fluid, and more confident. As she learned I was open to helping, she got more comfortable, and I was glad to see this - as I'm hoping I can return in the future and help her out again!! Working with native Spanish speakers to learn English makes me realize how wrong I must sound when I've been learning Spanish at times.... Certainly humbling. You also see how confusing parts of a language are that I've always taken as natural. Contractions in particular... it was hard to explain to Cindi the concept of we'll, I'll, she'll, we'd, they'd, isn't, and can't - let alone the pronunciation. I really enjoyed my time at El Hogar! Currently in Mérida, Central's China program director is visiting, so tonight a group of us went with her downtown as she wanted to see a little more of Mérida at night, and considered us the experts (that's a first!). I rarely go downtown later in the evening, so it was fun to see the city convert into a place of cultural expression. There was a ballet going on, a concert, streets closed for pedestrians - the cobblestone lined with small tables that restaurants moved into the streets, more vendors than needed, and a comfortable amount of people walking and talking! Very nice evening!! Unfortunately - throughout my day's activities I accumulated an uncomfortable amount of mosquito bites. I'm a Minnesota girl, so it means a lot for me to say, they are BAD here. Yikes - it's like connect the dots on my legs, and my anti-itch and Off! spray are getting quite the workout! Maybe I'll get my fair share now, so when I return to the States they'll want nothing to do with me... Maybe...

Salsa Master

Made another trip to Sol y Luna today!!! Painted some more of the Bambi mural, when we weren't being distracted by two new friends! One is the son of a staff member, the other a brother of a kid who attends therapy - both cute, both chatty, both funny. Both also fascinated with watching Katelynn and I paint today. They made our time more fun and interesting - playing games with us, saying "Thank you" and other short phrases that they know in English, and asking us a few too many times when we were going to paint this, that, or the next thing in the painting. The answer was always, "I don't know, we'll have to see when we finish this part, let's just be patient!". Towards the end, Dante (a boy who attends physical therapy) came over, became mesmerized by watching us paint, and soon was defiant as his mom explained it was time to leave. She tried the "Alright, I'm leaving then, see you tomorrow" trick, but nothing pulled him away until she physically moved him. Who knew our work would draw such a crowd??? Let's face it - they just liked Bambi and the bright colors.

Getting back into my routine this week along with rising temperatures has worn me out - so it was siesta time! I rarely take those anymore, so it was a momentous occasion! Finished some homework and hung around home! Since Katelynn's family was in town, we missed ice cream on Monday (gasp), so we made up for it today! The workers at our little shop had missed us - or at least that's what we like to think! Hung around the Central House a bit tonight before dance class. Gotta say - we are getting good!! Veronica is the greatest - so much fun with us during class, and so sweet and caring! We started learning a new African/Cuban dance today and yikes... A tad too quick and difficult after having a week off. We have some practicing to do!! After class when I was talking with Veronica I asked her if I could have a copy of the CDs to get the music for our dances. She gave me the CDs for the week, so I'll get them on my computer and then I'll be golden. We can practice all day, every day... or at least jam to the Mexican beats while walking to school :) Veronica has written on the CD "Master Salsa" - but watch me become the Salsa Master!

Back to the old routine!

Today it was really wonderful to be back in the swing of things with all my activities!! After class Katelynn and I went to Sol y Luna together. We both intern there, but usually on different days. Since we've missed two weeks now, we're doubling up a little! I may go with her tomorrow too! We walked in to a "Welcome Spring" party! All the kids were dressed up (like a rabbit, a sun, a butterfly, a turtle, etc.) and playing a game (which we never got the hang of... really weird...). Then we got a special snack/treat - it seems that Katelynn and I came on the right day! It was so fun to see the kids again, and the staff too! They were eager to hear about our adventure from Chiapas and Spring Break, and we were happy to hear their parade went well!! We also had to receive some sad news. One of the young boys, although I've never personally met him (as he attends Sol y Luna on a day I'm not there), was diagnosed with cancer. On top of everything else he has in his life, this disease has now been added to the list. Everyone is very very sad, and they're taking up donations to help out the family - who has very few resources. Katelynn and I got to help with a little painting during the later part of our time at Sol y Luna today! They are creating a Bambi mural to hang in one of the classrooms. Little did they know they got two very unexperienced painters - but I think we're off to a good start. The picture was penciled on the fabric, so we just had to paint! Bused myself home for lunch, then worked on a little homework! Went out the door around 4:30 to get to the English Academy where I had a really great time with my language groups!! We discussed what they had been up to the past two weeks, Carnaval, Mexican holidays, family celebrations, beaches, and free time activities! Then the questions were shot back at me and I was asked to compare the American versions time and time again. They are so interested in hearing what it's like in the United States. When we talked about traveling I was a little surprised to discover that most of my students haven't left the Yucatán state. As they asked where I've visited (in Mexico, the US, and the world in general) I was reminded yet again how blessed I have been with parents who support, encourage, and participate in traveling and have shown me so many new and interesting places! The students at the Academy are in love with the fact that I get to spend time with them - they are anxious to share their stories and to hear mine! Today one of the older students asked me, "You're from Minnesota. Do you see the Green Giant a lot?" I was a little confused. Did she mean the Green Giant from Fenway Park? Paul Bunyon? Or the vegetable mascot? "El hombre en las latas de verduras" (The man on the cans of vegetables), since many times they'll switch to Spanish when they can't think of a way to get their ideas across in English. Oh yep, sure enough she indeed was talking about the Green Giant from the canned vegetables. I asked her why this made her think of MN. Her family has done student exchanges before, and once they had a few students from MN and I guess they brought her family cans of Green Giant vegetables. Why? I have no idea. Haha! Another thing that I smile over is the students' constant questioning of which I like better, a certain thing in Mexico, or the equivalent in the US. Often my response is that I love both countries' version and they're both very different and hard to compare. If I ever give Mexico the upper hand, they smile, cheer, get excited, say "thank you, thank you, thank you", or tell me how happy they are. It's like we're keeping score or something!? So yes, a very fun and eventful day getting back to my activities - glad to see all my familiar faces!

I'm spoiled!

The alarm was a rude awakening at 4:03am this morning (I have a thing about waking up on odd numbered minutes) but I made the trek to school where eight students and Val loaded in the van to go to Dzibilchaltún. I asked Ana how to pronounce it - Zee-bee-shawl-toon. In short, the Spring Equinox was a little different than I had expected. I guess I knew I was going to watch the sun essentially just shine through a hole in a Mayan pyramid - but for some reason I was expecting something crazy! We were greeted by hoards (HOARDS) of people - I felt like I was going to the MN State Fair as thousands of people entered in, still a little dark out, sporting like jackets - I was waiting for my cheese curds and pronto pup... but no luck. I can't lie, the atmosphere of this event was really exciting - people were pumped! It helped that today is a national holiday here in Mexico, for Benito Juarez, so I think more people came out. Anyways, the actual event of the sun peeking through the "hole" or window, wasn't too amazing and hard to get a picture of, but the time after was sweet! The sun was gorgeous with its burning colors, and the contrast of the dark ruin was neat to see! Again, hard to get nice pictures since I was dodging heads and arms raised in the air (I think they were praying/praising the sun god maybe?). I'll share a few shots! Since the gates were SO crowded, and a huge line was still formed outside when we arrived, they didn't charge us admission so that we could get in to the ruins before the whole thing happened. This turned into a few benefits 1) We didn't have to wait in the line as long and 2) We used the money we saved to go out to breakfast! Thanks Val! The nine of us went to VIPs for a pre-class feast! Then back to class we went! Easy breezy day! After class I was spoiled for a second time. Katelynn's parents and grandma have been in Mérida for a week, and today after class they were going out to lunch and invited me to come along!!! La Parrilla served up a feast! It was nice to meet Katelynn's family, one of my best friends here in Mérida! Spent the afternoon doing homework, spending some time with my mom, Skyping my sister, and taking care of a few odds and ends! Lovely day, not to mention it wasn't unbearably hot! Yea!

I want to share a little about what I've been learning in class and something that's sparked a new passion! Before break in my Understanding Contemporary Mexico culture class we had to read an article (if you have the time, I suggest taking a read.. hard stuff, but good stuff) that really impacted my view on the issue. Today in class we discussed it - the issue is so incredibly gross and appalling, and there is a growing need to help those impacted by both sexual slavery and other types of human trafficking. It's worth the time to understand that this heinous industry is happening within our borders, and sometimes literally - right next door. The article is about sex trafficking but here are some insane facts about human trafficking (officially, Trafficking In People (TIP)) that I learned today: - In the US the division of trafficking is: 47% prostitution, 27% domestic workers, 10% agricultural workers, and 17% others (illegal "adoption", religious cults, mail order brides, child soldiers, etc.) - Many times those being trafficked are victims of their own families. Their families are the ones involved in selling them and they're aware of the slavery conditions they'll subject their 'loved ones' to. - Worldwide profit for trafficking people is 5-9 BILLION dollars. Startling facts. I think if working in Psychology with developmental disabilities doesn't work out, I could find myself doing something along the lines of working to help those impacted by TIP. There's certainly a need. Here is a link to the article: http://www.nytimes.com/2004/01/25/magazine/25SEXTRAFFIC.html 


Sorry for such a heavy topic, but something that must be brought into the light!
On a happier note, here are some pictures from this morning!

Upon arriving to the ruins

The crowd

Austin at I with Dzibilchaltún in the background

Here comes the sun

The phenomenon 

The pretty sun afterwards

My favorite picture of the day

And all before 6:30 am :)

Home sweet Mérida

Today I slept in - and oooooh baby did it feel good! Took it slow this morning, catching up with my mom, taking care of some e-mails, and uploading pictures to my computer!! A home-cooked meal this afternoon was delicious and even better after a week of not always eating balanced meals. However no ice cream here :) (Good thing tomorrow is my weekly ice cream trip!) My mom and I watched Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, and I don't know if it's the fact that it's translated in Spanish, or what, but my mom was really confused, and thought it was four movies stuffed into one! Later today I headed over to the Central House - where I discovered 10 of the 16 people in our group all working on homework and comparing Spring Break stories! A little funny as everyone scrambled to complete their assignments and such! I had finished my homework before leaving for the island, so I just hung out for a bit! A very lazy day with not much to report! I must say it's much noisier here in Mérida than Isla Holbox, no surprise - but my usual walk to Central and back had missed me I think, and I missed it a little too! Skyped with my family and now I'm getting ready to go to bed early! The group is headed on an optional (but most people are going) trip to Dzibilchaltun, about 30 minutes away, to observe a sight that only happens twice a year, during the two equinoxes. For the Spring equinox we will observe the sight below. It's a site of Mayan ruins so maybe we'll get to explore those a bit as well. The bummer is we'll leave Central at 5am! I'm getting good at these early mornings though :) Hopefully I'll have a cool picture or two to post tomorrow! Have a wonderful start to your weeks!

Isla Holbox in Photos

Here are some pictures of my week on the island! Keep in mind, most beauty can't be captured on a memory card!

Looking off of the terrace at the hostel

Amazing sunsets

Watching the sun sink below the water is ridiculously cool

Swinging is cool, swinging on the beach is unbeatable

Crystal clear water

Emily and Emily go to the island!

Just one of the many ice cream trips!

The sand streets

Emily and I at Hotel Casa Barbara

Driving the golf cart - in front of Tribu Hostel

Driving on the beach

Much nicer beaches than we're used to in Progreso

Can't get much sweeter than this!

These whale sharks are painted EVERYWHERE
Unfortunately we couldn't go see them - the season starts in May

Our one-stop shop!

Hitting the beach everyday = good life

Fish lunch right on the beach!!

Our hostel was super unique - just looking at the shower should prove that

We watched the sunset every night on the beach

Remarkable - God does some crazy stuff

We made quesadillas and guacamole for dinner!

Eating churros downtown

Last day walking the beach

On the ferry back to the mainland!

Back on the mainland!

We're home!! Feels good to be back home, although I was sad to leave the island today!! Em and I got up, made breakfast burritos at the hostel, then decided it would be a shame to not be at the beach so we just walked the shore for a while, people watched, etc. Oh, and we may or may have not gotten ice cream for one last time at our usual spot! Back at the hostel we hung out until it was time to check -out. We started walking with our bags to the port for the ferry - and along the way we were stopped by the most kind family. A man, woman, and little girl were driving in their little golf cart down the road we were walking, and the man stopped and asked us if we were headed to the ferry. He told us to jump on and he'd lessen our load. Here we had decided to skip the taxi this time, but we were starting to regret that decision based on how warm we were getting with all of our things, and these wonderful people helped us out! This totally demonstrates the personality of people on Isla Holbox - beyond friendly and incredibly helpful, always helping out someone in need. At first Emily and I figured they were going to the port too, and figured they may as well pick up the struggling tourists, but after they dropped us off they turned around and went back the opposite direction!! When we jumped out I gave the man 15 pesos (a taxi would have been 30) but he refused to accept it. I insisted and asked that he please take it, but again he wouldn't, so I handed it to the little girl, probably three years old. The couple smiled and I figured it was the least we could do! Warmed our hearts for the rest of the day!! Today's travels went smoothly again, both the ferry and the two buses, but I wasn't as comfortable or able to sleep as much, so tonight I'll be out as soon as I hit the pillow. Thank goodness I didn't sleep on the bus from Cancún to Mérida or I would have missed watching Fireproof, Deck the Halls, and the beginning of The Last King of Scotland!! We wouldn't have wanted that :) I amuse myself by comparing the Spanish dubbing to the English I can perceive from the moving lips. So here I am, back home in Colonia Buena Vista at last! I plan on sleeping in, and through a few e-mails I sent my mom to let her know when I'd be back home tonight, she said she'll be quiet since she knows how tired I'll be... She must have forgotten, I've been staying in a hostel... I don't think she has to worry about making too much noise!! Hopefully tomorrow I can post some pictures of my time this week! Good night! I'll attempt to turn my fan on to imitate the ocean's waves!

A few great catches!

Today we packed up our things to leave the hotel. Our first great catch: We went to rent our golf cart from what has become our one-stop shop, and a favorite place here on the island, Moguel's Mini-Super. We've gotten groceries, our ice cream, friends, and now golf cart rental service!! For two hours we cruised the island, checking out areas too far to walk, which were mostly very rustic areas. I've gotta say, driving literally on the beach, was a highlight. During our two hours we put our skills to work as our own personal taxi service - transporting our bags from the hotel back to the Tribu Hostel, where we'll sleep tonight before our sad departure tomorrow. After our golf cart adventure we naturally had to get ice cream (our second great catch), because we were already there. Nutella flavored today, and the fact that we ate it on the beach added to the excitement! Spent a few hours laying on the beach, and then walked 50 yards to lunch. Our third great catch: Palapa del Mar for freshly caught fish, right on the beach. It was unreal, delicious and fun!! Ran across a couple visiting their son who started a hotel here on the island, they're originally from Taylors Falls, MN but moved a year ago to Merida! Imagine that! They were excited to be so far away from 'home' but encounter a little bit of that Minnesota Nice! We each used some of that nice to take pictures of each other enjoying our tropical lunch!! Then we purchased some groceries for tonight's dinner and tomorrow's breakfast. Came back to the hostel, played some cards, then prepared guacamole, quesadillas, beans, and some fruit! We're getting the hang of this hostel life. Our place was hopping tonight, so many people, which was fun to see everyone just hanging out, cooking, talking, etc! It's always a game trying to figure out what language is even being spoken... but Em and I are in the minority, only speaking two languages... We're bums compared to everyone else! Went out to the center after dinner to eat churros (the fourth great catch) and walk around. Sorry everyone, I feel like all I ever write about is meals, and the short life between them :) What can I say?? Emily and I watched an episode of Law and Order, which was fun and relaxing! Now writing to you all while sitting in my hammock chair! Farewell from Isla Holbox, what a ride this has been! this whole week has been a good catch! So happy with our planning and decisions to come here for the week!!! Happy weekend!

Water hopping... Beaches and pools!

What's new? Yet another beautiful day on Isla Holbox!! We started out with time at the beach and then came back to the hotel to swim at the pool!! After sandwiches on the deck we decided to walk abour a bit! Stopped by a little shop for some tasty flan and ate it in the park! We missed the sun and waves so we just walked the shore, bought a snack from the cutest little boy, and participated in a bit of people watching. There was a small group of people kite surfing, which amazed us, so we sat in the sand and marveled! They were crazy good at it, doing insane flips and jumps out of the water, zooming over the water! I would never succeed, although they do offer lessons and tours here! Maybe next time... The hostel we stayed at has a really good map of the island, and the owners are helpful and knowledgable, so we stopped there to find a good place to eat dinner tonight, and the best place to rent golf carts! After showering we went to eat at a small family owned restaurant, where I had fresh sopes - a glorious Mexican speciality! We're thinking we may need to make another stop for a meal tomorrow. The ice cream from last night got us hooked so we figured we may as well return and try a new flavor - Guanabana for me - a tropical fruit, that's hard to explain! Tomorrow we plan to rent a golf cart for a few hours, explore more of the island, and cruise the calles (streets) in style! This trip has been so fun, and I can't wait to enjoy another day on the island tomorrow! I marvel at the people and lifestyle here - so different from what we're used to, and even completely different from the life in Merida!

Island life is the good life!

This morning Emily and I whipped up quesadillas for breakfast :) Anything is normal in Mexico! Then we spent a few hours walking through town, checking out some shops, and then spent a long time just on the beach, walking and playing in the sand (20 years old? No way!). We had to meander back to our hostel where we checked out, caught a golf cart taxi and headed to our hotel, Hotel Casa Barbara. Like I mentioned before, we decided to split our stay between hostel and hotel, to get the best of both worlds. Had we known the Tribu Hostel was going to be so pleasant, we may have stayed there the whole week, but we're glad we checked out Hotel Casa Barbara too!! Lovely pool, amazing scenery, cool layout/design, King sized bed, more spacious, we get soap and towels :), did I mention a pool? We quickly jumped into the pool since the island heat had gotten the best of us. Then we headed to the beach (not a bad trade-off, huh?) where we both read our books, walked the shore, and swam a little. I napped - and I've noticed throughout the semester, I always have very vivid and peculiar dreams when I'm at the beach. Riddle me that, Freud! Emily and I have found one of our new favorite activities while here on Isla Holbox. People watching at its finest - but this time not only do we get to observe the people, but we work to try (keyword) and figure out where in the world (literally) they're from, and how they're all related, what they're doing, etc. It's been fun, and challenging. Gotta keep our brains working somehow, right?! :) Headed back to the hotel, showered and changed, then strolled the town. I know, it seems like that's all we do - but this place is really interesting to us, so we're content checking it all out. Had dinner on the beach, I had tortilla soup!!! Major highlight! Delicious! Walked on the shore some more (another thing that doesn't get old) then got ice cream (coconut, my new favorite since arriving here in Mexico) and ate it at the park in the center of the "downtown" area here. It's really fun, they have a really big area with multiple play things, some you pay to use, some arcade and carnival type games, and a basketball court. I think it's to keep the kids of the island out of trouble, since there isn't a whole lot to do - and it seems to be a popular place! Another great day, we're making plans and lists of all we want to do before departing! Only half way through, but we can't miss out on anything!! Night!

I could get used to this

Emily and I made toast for breakfast this morning (which sounds insignificant, but in a country where toasters are few and far between, this is monumental)! Then we hit the beach for hours of white sand, clear water, the sound of waves, and absolute tranquility. Not quite like in Progreso where there's the constant fear of being dropped on by birds, or having to say yes to a vendor selling mangos, hammocks, or my name written on a piece of rice. So we soaked up some rays of sol then walked to the mini-mart for some small grocery things. Back to the hostel for a lunch of pasta and fruit!! We love using the kitchen here! We were covered in a layer at sand so we showered, threw on some dresses (to match the cute-look of all the natives and European visitors), and admired the sunset. WOW WOW WOW - Good work, God. Absolutely incredible as we watched the fiery sun sink through the Gulf water's horizon, amazing. Spent some time exploring the town - this island is full of interesting and unique places, then made our way to dinner at Zarabanda - recommended to us by the owners of the hostel, an authentic little place with the greatest service. They all came and greeted us, spent quite a bit of time chatting with us, and our waiter ran to fetch palms and made origami birds out of leaves on these little wands for us, haha! Back to the hostel for a night of relaxation and breathing in that fresh breeze, can't get enough!! Found this clip you may enjoy seeing of Tribu Hostel, click there. I HIGHLY recommend this place, it's fun, affordable, unique, and the owners are wonderful! Emily and I struck gold!

On the island!

Emily and I have made it to Isla Holbox!!! Took the taxi from the Central House at 6am, had about a half hour in the ADO bus terminal before departing at 7am! It was a nice, comfortable bus, and the trip went well - I slept most of the way!! In Cancun we had about two hours, so we bought our next ticket to Chiquila, and then sat and relaxed while having a snack! Unfortunately the bus from Cancun to Chiquila does make some stops to pick up others, so it wasn't quite as direct, but still I was able to sleep most of the way (I've gotten good at this whole road traveling thing!!). In Chiquila we jumped on a ferry to the island, with many people from our bus. It was about a half hour trip, and I talked with a traveler from Argentina - he insisted on speaking Spanish!! The island blew us away right off the bat, we caught a golf cart "taxi" that took us to our brightly colored oasis, the Tribu Hostel. It's really a neat place, lots of space, many places to relax, great views off of the third floor terraces, and our room is quaint but very clean and nice! I think we will enjoy our time here. There are many amenities, including a full and very well stocked kitchen, so during our stroll through town we stopped at a mini-mart store to buy tortillas, cheese, beans, and salsa - which we prepared for dinner and ate on the lovely balcony! Sat and enjoyed the Gulf breeze, played cards, listened to many languages around us, and soaked up all the tranquility here! The hostel is owned by what we believe are Australians - young people, very friendly! Most of the people staying here seem to be from Europe - and there are quite a few people!!! More to come later!!

The island is calling!!!

Today consisted mostly of preparing for my vacation that starts tomorrow morning! A little shopping, packing, planning, and submitting homework that is due after break (out of sight, out of mind) occupied my day! So what will I be doing this week?

Emily Sullivan and I are heading to Isla Holbox, from Monday until Saturday, living on the small and peaceful island. 7 miles long and 1 mile wide, Holbox has no paved roads, only sand, and has no cars, only bikes and golf carts. This is the life!! We've been "warned" (as if it's a bad thing) that the island is very relaxed and low-key. Sounds perfect! We're hoping to spend lots of time on the white sand beaches, possibly go horseback riding, check out where the Gulf meets the Caribbean Sea, explore the island, do some shopping, taste fresh island cuisine, and just relax and enjoy the scenery!

Paradise, right?

At 6 am the taxi will pick us up from the Central House and take us to the ADO bus station downtown. These are Greyhound-type buses, and we will ride from Mérida to Cancún. Then we will confront a few options, either take a bus to the city of Chiquilá, followed by a ferry to Holbox, or possibly just a ferry from Cancún to Holbox. We are certain on the schedule of the Chiquilá route, but a friend suggested we check out the straight shot to Holbox. Once we're in Holbox, all schedules and worries go out the window. Emily and I decided to book our nights at two different places to A) save money and B) experience both types of living... We'll be staying half of our time at Tribu Hostel, which looks very nice based on the website. We will have our own private room (so I guess not the true hostel experience, but one step at a time!). The other half we'll be at Hotel Casa Barbara, which the website depicts as a cute and friendly place. Full of color and vegetation, the hotel also offers a pool! It's right on the main drag (but on a small island, isn't everything on the main drag?) and very close to the beach.

Hotel Casa Barbara

So I'm off early to journey to this beautiful island. I think the reason it doesn't feel like this vacation is all that real, is because I'm already in a warm and beautiful place here in Mérida - but I know we will enjoy ourselves, and the time away from the city! Please pray for our safety in travel and health, and that things will go as we have planned. Both the hostel and hotel should have internet access, so I may be able to update during the week, but if not - have a fantastic week - talk to you Saturday :)

Hello beach, I'm back

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Sydney C. today!!! Wishing I were home to celebrate - but certain you had a fantastic day!

Today I made my way to Progreso with four friends! It had been a while, so it was nice to soak up a little sun!! Warm and sunny day, but very very windy! I was covered in sand by the time I made it home, but nothing a shower couldn't fix! I then finished the last of my homework that I have due after break, so that is no longer in my mind! Yeaaa I'm ready for vacation!

Many things in life are relative. The weather for instance... At 70 degrees in Minnesota I'd whip out the shorts and t-shirts, shout for joy, and proclaim "we have a heat wave!". At 70 degrees in Mérida I whip out the jeans and cardigan, shout for joy, and proclaim "we have a beautiful cool evening, I can finally wear these clothes!". It was a nice evening here, so I did indeed get to wear jeans!!! It's been enjoyable these last few days to have cooler weather and not have to melt every time I walk somewhere. Emily, Austin and I went to a taco restaurant that Emily's mom's friend suggested. Sheri (Emily's mom) visited a week ago, and after loving the food there, she left Emily with money to treat some friend, thank you Sheri!!! Tacos al pastor were delicious as always! I can't explain them really - but they're probably the most popular type of taco in most of Mexico, especially here in Mérida. It's usually the type I get whenever I have the chance to order tacos! The meat is prepared in a very unique way (Check it out - Tacos al Pastor), however the picture there will probably gross people out - restaurants take a lot of precautions to prepare the meat. The flavor is delicious, and usually served with pineapple, onions, and in true Mexican style - many salsas. Yummmm!! It was a fun night out!

Tomorrow will be packing day, as I have failed to prepare myself for the island life that is headed my way. Can't wait though :) More details about my trip will come tomorrow!

Ps. A funny moment today as we were walking to the beach. We get off the bus in Progreso and have a 7-10 minute walk to the actual beach. Today Katelynn says as we're walking "Couldn't they drop us off right at the water? It's so much work to actually get to the beach! It's too much work!" Don't worry, there was a touch of sarcasm! We have such a rough life, don't we?

Salmos

Lazy day around the house - which felt so good! After all the moving and shaking, it's nice to just relax! Although I guess that's sort of what this whole semester is about :) 

Got a few assignments done so I don't need to think about anything once I take off for the island on Monday! Shopping with my mom this afternoon, as she wanted to get me some things for my trip before I leave! So sweet of her! She was an energetic one today - two bike rides, and she kept running with the cart and riding on it. I was so embarrassed!! Just kidding, she's not like my real parents in that way... yet :) Friends got together to watch a movie tonight, 21 was on the big screen (okay, it may have been a 15 inch laptop...) and we threw in a few bags of popcorn! Our friend Kaitlan's boyfriend flew in tonight for vacation, and brought with him a big bag of the BEST chocolate chip cookies. Kaitlan shared, and a little piece of America had never tasted so good! Tonight it's down to the upper 60s, but I'm still sleeping with the windows open so I can finally snuggle under my sheets and blanket!

Before leaving in January for this spectacular adventure, I had read Psalm 34 and came across it again today. It says:


¹ I will extol the LORD at all times;

   his praise will always be on my lips. 
² I will glory in the LORD;
   let the afflicted hear and rejoice. 
³ Glorify the LORD with me;
   let us exalt his name together.

 ⁴ I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
   he delivered me from all my fears. 
⁵ Those who look to him are radiant;
   their faces are never covered with shame. 
⁶ This poor man called, and the LORD heard him;
   he saved him out of all his troubles. 
⁷ The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,
   and he delivers them.

 ⁸ Taste and see that the LORD is good;
   blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. 
⁹ Fear the LORD, you his holy people,
   for those who fear him lack nothing. 
¹⁰ The lions may grow weak and hungry,
   but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. 
¹¹ Come, my children, listen to me;
   I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 
¹² Whoever of you loves life
   and desires to see many good days, 
¹³ keep your tongue from evil
   and your lips from telling lies. 
¹⁴ Turn from evil and do good;
   seek peace and pursue it.

 ¹⁵ The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous,
   and his ears are attentive to their cry; 
¹⁶ but the face of the LORD is against those who do evil,
   to blot out their name from the earth.

 ¹⁷ The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them;
   he delivers them from all their troubles. 
¹⁸ The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
   and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

 ¹⁹ The righteous person may have many troubles,
   but the LORD delivers him from them all; 
²⁰ he protects all his bones,
   not one of them will be broken.

 ²¹ Evil will slay the wicked;
   the foes of the righteous will be condemned. 
²² The LORD will rescue his servants;
   no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.


What stood out to me? Praise should always be on my lips - and my actions should glorify the Lord in all that I do. God hears us and protects us from danger - nothing is too small for our Father in heaven, cry out to Him and He will lift you up. Those who look to him are radiant - Verse 5 grabs my attention because of that one word, radiant. When we steer towards the Lord, we shine and proclaim his love and joy. Believers lack nothing - although it's hard to always be convinced of this, we can trust that when we put our faith in God, He will provide what we need at just the right time (but we don't always realize what His timing is). Seek peace and pursue it - Verse 14 makes it so clear, and it seems easy. Why would we not want to be on path of peace? He is attentive to our needs - God knows us better than we know ourselves, He knows what's best for us. Verse 18 - when you find yourself in a time of desperation or hopelessness, lean on the one that promises to save us. The Lord's servants will be uplifted and strengthened - if you are working for the Kingdom of God, we will be rewarded not only here on earth, with the strength to carry out more of God's will, but in heaven as well.

For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations - Psalm 100:5. May God meet you and bless you with His promises. Happy weekend! Enjoy!