El Microcentro

Visited Microcentro today with new amigo, Victor. This is where the Casa Rosada is (Pink House)-- This is their version of the White House, and my mom's version of paradise. This is also where where Madonna used to make her famous speeches to the people of Argentina from the balcony. Also vistited the Cathedral and walked around the area-- eventually ending up by the Puente De La Mujer. There is a quaint little walkway by the water, with nice restaurants, outdoor dining, and then a Hooters and TGIF's :) After our beer, we heard the Casa Rosada is open to the public, which I guess it's rare. Lucky us! We got to go inside and take a look around. It's very grand and I couldnt believe they just let us walk around.

I'm heading down to El Calafate tomorrow (Patagonia!). I'll be back Tuesday, and until then, I won't be able to update el blog.

I promise I'll start updating my flickr account with more pics!

And yes, by Madonna, I meant Evita. I'm hoping you all caught that. Some, maybe not so sure :)

Origen Cafe

Today I found Origen Cafe. Thank god. I looked everywhere for a little cafe where I can park it and hang out. Maybe have some breakfast. Maybe a cerveza. Maybe both. I found it. I noticed Stellas are cheaper than Coronas (lol!). It took me 25 minutes to find it, and it's 2 blocks away... again, still taking the long way.

From there, I saw a little sushi place, a little pizza place, and heladeria (woot! ice cream), and a pastry shop called Costa Ricas. Shout out! So i bought an empanada from there.

On my way back to my piso, I found a little used book store, and met Cesar, the owner. He was really nice, made me feel welcome, and I think he was telling me of when he used to be fat and have long hair? Maybe? Anyways, I bought a book.

At this point, I had a little skip in my step, smiling a lot. The area is starting to feel more homey. Then I got home, looked in the mirror and saw a large chunk of green parsley in my teeth. fml.

Carlos & Me

This one is for you mom! Carlos Gardel is/was the Tango king of Argentina (back in the day)... and this is hanging in my little cocina. Cute.

Stella, Tango, Pigeons

After unpacking and trying to nap, I venture out on my own. Naturally, I take the very long way to the center of town. I ordered myself a Stella. Yessssss. Goodness. This is my first drink in BA. I know, right? Then I had some friends join me. And by friends, I mean pigeons. And by pigeons, I mean, swarms of nasty birds. Someone called them "Palomitas" (doves). I'm like no sweetie, those are not doves. I literally SCREAMED at one point when 8 landed on my table. Sigh. People got some good laughs. Anyways, it was really nice-- saw a little tango dancing, had a beer, and was on my way.

Got some groceries: 2 Cup O Noodles (hell ya chicken picante!), Water, 2 Heineken tall boys, Yogurt, Bread, Jelly, Tea.

I'm Heeeerrre!

Reporting to you from my new piso! The apartment is just like in the photos, which is a relief. There is one framed photo of Carlos Gardel on the wall, which is kinda funny, and lovely.

I have to admit, I'm totally overwhelmed right now. And totally exhausted. But I feel very welcomed here by everyone. My volunteer advisor came over to chat and go over a bunch of details (ie. this is where you live, this is where you do not go).

Time to unpack, buy some food, and take a little nappy.

Also, I completely fell out of the shower. And by completely, I mean, I yanked the shower curtains down with me. What a great start! Times I've almost broken my neck: 2.

And for those of you (Katie) who were worried about me not getting my McDonald's breakfast yesterday morning... well, guess what i had at the Buenos Aires airport! You better believe it. An Egg McBagel, except they forgot to give me the egg. It's ok, I still enjoyed it.

Here's me in my new diggs:

Hola from Miami!

Currently into layover hour #2 of 4. So far so good... well, aside from almost eating s*%t at the airport and not finding McDonald's... Other than thaaaat, i'm feeling pretty ok! Still nervous, but more in the good way, less in the nauseating way.

More later!

Last day at work, kinda sorta

About to get my wine on at work...nothing new there. But, I'm saying adios (for now) to my fab work buddies. I'll miss you guys, thanks for everything!! See you very very soon.