The Sunniest Day (September 10)

i could not wear pants today. it is that hot. i got ingrid out of the house today and we walked over to the 'gringolandia' part of san pedro. i´m so glad that i´ve spent two weeks here already without seeing it. exactly as the books say- the shops, restaurants, bars and cafes are completely hippiesque. everything is more expensive over there, but it was good to see that there are actually tourists here this time of year. after spending time only on the local side of the hill, i was beginning to think i was one of very few.

next week is independence day, and all the store fronts are decorating with flags and balloons. there will be a parade, probably wednesday or thursday. but i´m going to try to avoid the traffic and spend the holiday in antigua so i can meet kevin when he arrives. i am very much looking forward to next week :) the expression here is 'tengo ansias.' literally- i have anxious... but meaning an anxiety of a positive nature.

i learned many other expressions during my first week of classes, but i may look for another school or even try out some teachers that give private lessons beginning on the 20th. there are so many spanish schools here to choose from and it´s important to feel that you are getting what you`re paying for.

i have some cleaning to do this weekend, but if the weather is good ingrid and i may try to hike near volcàn san pedro. next week i´ll remember to bring my camera cord to upload some photos. although most days feel the same, i´m feeling more and more comfortable as i recognize faces in the streets. i can definitely understand how a person can visit this place and never want to leave...