¡Baja, Baja, Baja!

It's strange to have to switch on and off between languages. I've only been here 2 days, and already I have learned so much! I can't imagine how much my Spanish speaking will improve during these 4 months. It's amazing how your mind can adapt when you're immersed into a new culture and language.

The public transportation system here is very...interesting. There are two types of buses: combis, which are little buses--sort of like large vans--and the drivers are CRAZY. They'll let you off pretty much wherever you want. Sometimes people get on and off while the combi is still moving. People will also jump on to try and sell things. Micros are pretty much the same, but they are medium-sized buses. They're a little nicer and don't quite make me feel like I might die. But they're still crazy. In addition to the driver, there is another person collecting money on the buses. I think perhaps this person is also trying to perfect his acrobat skills becuase he jumps on and off at intersections, trying to get people to ride that particular bus. He also says "¡Baja, baja, baja!" when it's time to get off. He doesn't want anyone wasting his time! One of our directors at school today said that inside a combi is like a different world!

Not to mention, there are essentially no traffic rules in Lima. Drivers will often wave their hands out the window to signal another car to move over or stop so they can get through. The thing is: there is no penalty for going through a stop light or speeding, so there seems to be no reason to obey the rules. I can't imagine ever learning to drive in Lima. That's probably why the combis are jam-packed!

Here in Peru, lunch is the big meal of the day. It's a little difficult to get used to. We're used to a big, hot meal at supper and a sandwich at lunch. Here it's just the opposite. Serving food is also someone's way of showing they care. So I feel like I'm eating all the time! My family doesn't quite understand yet that I will still love them whether they feed me every 2 hours or not! : )

I could explain lots and lots of new foods I've tried. One of my favorites is "Chicha," a juice made of purple corn and mixed with sugar. Sounds weird, I know...but it's kind of like Kool-Aid!

Last night we went to a Peruvian cultural show of sorts. We ate lots of traditional foods and watched some really interesting dances. The music was great!! I loved seeing the different instruments. There was a dance at the end of the show where the dancers wore red devil masks. One of the dancers pulled me onstage and put a veil on me. I soon realized I was getting married to the devil. They made me dance, too. It was a little embarassing, but a fun memory.

I need to finish my lunch, then we're off again for a tour of downtown Lima!

Hasta luego!