9 sweaty boys + 4 girls + 1 driver + 2 adults = a squished ride. We were going to have 5 girls in the front bench, but one of the guys willingly gave up his seat so we wouldn't be crazy squished. Thank you chivalrous boy - I got to sit in the back with the guys. Who had just been playing soccer... No further comment. But it was fun :)
Now, onto Sunday. Don't let the title fool you. Today had to be the most interesting experience at church ever. Markie and I sang a duet for the intermediate hymn - in spanish. Be proud. It was "Jesus, The Very Thought Of Thee," one of my absolute favorite hymns. You should see a picture of my cheat sheet. I wrote the verses out phonetically so I could actually say the words. Aunt Janelle and Uncle Steve said it sounded like I was fluent! Awesome - except for the fact that it made the ward think I could speak spanish, which, in reality, I can't. At all. I learned a new word though: "bonita." It means beautiful - and it was repeated over and over to Markie and I, followed with many kisses on the cheeks. I think I'm getting used to the touchy-feeling greetings, goodbyes, and congratulations, but it's definitely different from a handshake or a hug!
After Sacrament meeting, we went to Young Single Adults class. I have never been so intimidated in my entire life. I never realized how frightening it would be to sit in a class of 10 people and cross my fingers for the entire hour, hoping the teacher didn't call on me. I wish I knew spanish. I sat next to a guy who I think offered to share his scriptures with me, but I'm not sure haha. I feel bad.
The last class wasn't as awkward as the previous class because it was all the women and men (and there are actually a lot in their ward - I was surprised) but, because I had no idea what anyone was saying, I lost interest a little. It didn't help either that the class went 15 minutes over. I went to the bathroom afterwards and got some weird looks as I entered (it was a different ward I hope). They probably thought "What is a gringo doing in here?" Well going to the bathroom obviously! :) That was a dangerous move for me, because I was halted by more people from the ward who were (I assume) telling me good job. More uncomfortable conversation for me, followed by quite "gracias" from my mouth, and of course, the kiss on the cheek. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy talking to them (if someone can speak english and spanish is next to me) and I am always cordial and polite and I smile, but that's the most I can do! It's frustrating.
It was quite the day at church! Bring it on for June 12th! :)
Here are some random pictures:
Shopping for Tourist-y items at one of the many tourist shops. Disregard the candid-ness of this shot. Just move on to the next one.
Markie and I at one of our very favorite places in Arequipa - Francos! It's the only place the Security Guards aren't required to follow us around and the bread is SO DELICIOUS. No joke. They have rolls that are crunchy on the outside and are soft and warm on the inside. American bread doesn't hold a candle to these bakery perfections. As you can see next to us on the counter, we got a lot of bags of bread. :)
Another picture from the mining tour we went to on Thursday. This one makes me smile :)From Prior Experience here's a caution for the next two pictures:
VIEWER DISCRETION ADVISED
the following pictures are from real events and might not be suitable for children under 10 years old, or for people with queasy stomachs.
the following pictures are from real events and might not be suitable for children under 10 years old, or for people with queasy stomachs.
Always something new at San Camilo. Anyone want some chicken feet? ...No? What do you mean no? What about the next picture? (If you thought the llama heads with fur were gross, wait until you see the ones we found on Friday ---)
Awful, right? Sorry Lee, but I won't bring these home for you. Even if you want something weird.
Anyways, that's a recap for today! Cuzco tomorrow!!! :) I can't wait!
