Take a moment...

Today will be my day of rest. As I sit here, recovering from a late night of dancing, I am able to reflect on the last tw0 weeks of my life.

I am proud to say that I have now upgraded from Spinglish to Spanglish. Day by day, it becomes a bit easier. Don't get me wrong-- I still manage to hear a completely different story than the one being told all the time but, poco un poco.

On a daily basis, Bolivia never ceases to amaze me. I have been filled with happiness at the sight of Bolivian babies, bundled tightly on the backs of their mothers; their rosy cheeks peeking through the colorful fabrics. I have been overcome by peels of giggles while trying to follow my Zumba Instructor's lead ( she dances like Shakira)... I daresay, I have too much "zumba" to Zumba. I am humbled everyday through what I learn from my family, and I have been enraged and enlightened by the complicated history of this beautiful country.

For sake of time, I am going to list some of the things that I have done/ have happened-- both good and bad:

- I have discovered the scrumptious-ness that are saltenas y empanadas. Muy rica!

- On my third day here, I was in the front seat of a bus when it hit a puppy. The bus driver got off and wrapped the little one up in his coat and left it by the road. There are many stray dogs here and this sort of thing happens all the time. Due to my love of animals and my fatigue I had a waterworks session all the way home; the little Amaryan man sitting next to me watched me curiously and gave me a Kleenex.

- Attention for all with itchy armpits (yes, you heard me); Lime juice is a savior. I made the mistake of scratching my upper arm and mi mama ran and cute me a lime. The concept of rubbing fruit under your arms is ridiculous, but now, I am a believer.

- Protests are a normal occurrence here; just the other day los micros ( the buses) went on strike.

- I have now eaten cow stomach...

- One of my directors, Ismael, shared with us a very personal part of his life through film. He was put in jail and tortured for political reasons during the 90s. His story is incredible.

There are many more; I will share them later. This experience thus far, has forced me to challenge my thinking. I get to share my days with the most intelligent peers, caring directors, and fantastic familia Boliviana.

One thing that is always on my mind is, "Vivir bien". This saying is all over Bolivia. It basically means, "Live well" as opposed to "Better Living".

Bolivia is the poorest country in South America and yet they live happily and strive for personal successes. They make the best of what they have and enjoy life. Its all about what you make of the situation; your choices; your passions. Situations are not always ideal but life goes on; you make do; you LIVE.

I will leave you with this, "What do you live for?"