We have arrived! And for those of you who know me well, let me ease your minds right away: the flights were easy and smooth! :) Although the last 36 hours have all blended together as our team made their way to the bottom of the globe, I can tell you that each hour has been full of humor, rapport, and excitment!
Interestingly, once we arrived at the airport this morning, we were surrounded my a swarm of Rotarians, smiling and eager to welcome us to their beautiful country. One by one, each of our team members left with their host family. All by Mike and I, who are being hosted by the "Andes Suite Home." This is a hotel in the center of the city, owned by a Rotarian, who has graciously set us up in an apartment for the first two days. To the left you will see a tiny glimpse of our part of this very large city.
Mike and I spent a part of our day wandering the streets of our neighborhood, enjoying a fabulous "onces", laughing out loud at ourselves at our absurd Spanish, and taking in the city. We came back to the apartment, where the jet lag caught up with me and I fell into such a deep sleep, that when Mike tried to rouse me I actually responded in Spanish! Apparently, in a twilight state, I am more bilingual than one would anticipate. :) One of the best parts of our walking around were the random dogs, resting in the street (apparently exhausted from all the canine responsibilities that weigh on them).
I will say, that part of this experience is all about making new connections and friends. Tonight Mike introduced me to a wonderful couple, here in Santiago, that he has known for many years. They were gracious and fun and took us out to a fantastic authentic Chilean dinner. I not only feel embraced by the magnificent Andes mountains, but now by his kind friends. Thank you Mike, John, and Florencia! Here was our dinner:
Until next time, bueno noches!
Love the Bon Jovi connection and that you were able to visit a school on one of your first days!
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