Monday, November 21, 2011

This Peruvian Life

Things I love about my Peruvian life

1. Old people’s wrinkled smiles

2. Hanging out in the chacra- probably my favorite place in Peru
3. Seeing a baby walk or talk for the first time, which makes me realize how long I’ve been here

4. Going to SERPOST and having a handwritten letter or thoughtful package from home.

5. The luxury of having time to just think

6. Castillos at town festivals (enormous firework towers that spit sparks all over the crowd)

7. Throwing around Peruvian “jerga” (slang) to the amusement of all those around me

8. Being gifted fruit as I walk through town

9. Ridiculous encounters that would never happen elsewhere

10. Laughing with my host family11. When a taxi driver agrees to the first price I offer

12. 3 course meals for 5 soles ($1.75)

13. Spitting guaba seeds in the chacra
14. Being told that my white skin is beautiful… who needs a tan?

15. A hot shower after weeks without one

16. Making a joke in Spanish that people actually understand

17. When my host family calls me their hija/hermana18. How good a real hug feels

19. When teenagers seek me out for personal advice

20. Peruvian baby cheeks and deep brown eyes21. Hearing my name echoed through the streets as I pass by
22. A juicy Porotina pineapple
23. Cooking and eating delicious baked goods with people here

24. The sun setting over the distant mountains as I run along the sugarcane fields

25. Losing all embarrassment over dancing at any and all occasion26. Being told that I “dominate” Spanish

27. Climbing a tree and being tall enough to reach the perfect fruit