anadiomene

Been a little busy again, learning Spanish and job hunting like a mad person as I am going to need the improvement of one for the other.  So a quick list of some great things that have happened this last week:

• Decided I want to stay and live here in BA

• Got given some roses as a gift while meditating in rose garden
• Went to my first Milonga (tango night)
• Got an amazing Shiatzu Massage
• Met some great new people with my conversation exchange
• Had a great meal at Nanatsu with some friends from NL

• Actually went to a club and they played good music – hence danced the night away

  • Yes paid for it a little the next day….

• Went to an event held by the British Chambers of Commerce, didn’t understand a word, but that was probably a good thing as it was about the future economy of Argentina and the slides were not making anyone smile

Click on photo to open gallery
Yerba Mate is the local tea and incredibly addictive.  I have to admit I now also am completely hooked, although unlike the Argentines I have yet to take my Mate with me to the beach, park, supermarket or on holidays (ok I lie I do take a stash on holidays).  It a herb of myth’s and legends, the Indians say that many many moons ago a wise man came taught them how to cut and dry the mate leaves to make tea – and that it would keep them awake and strong.  And it certainly does just that, it is super high in antioxidants, a natural caffeine, it also lowers cholesterol, and is the perfect drink to wake up with. There is a whole brewing process, nicely designed mate’s and local customs that go with the whole process, it is deeply ingrained part of the local culture, especially with the gauchos.  And as in the photos, Che would ask anyone he meet that arrived in Cuba if they had brought mate, Viggo and Maradona drink it – and of course almost anyone and everyone who is Argentine, so few million people can’t be wrong. More info, at wikipedia.

Yesterday in rose garden watched the rose change before my eyes, going with the flow – tilting for more sun, bending with the breeze, changing when and as needed and although it looks static it is nothing but transient.  As is all life, hence we need to be here now, in this moment as it really is forever.  

Click on photo to open gallery…Went to the most incredible event on Sunday night, it was a fusion of tango and acrobatics, in an old cultural centre at night under the full moon. Again this for me was a skill that only an Argentine can pull off; swinging so high over the city at night, sometimes with a net and sometimes without – with all the harnesses and pulleys shaking, it seemed like a death defying feat – which here is nothing more than trying to cross the road/ ride your bike/ or a racy game of polo.  The  acrobats were amazingly talented, each had a skill they had the opportunity to show off – it really was something else. Photo’s turned out great – no special settings used – this is just how they come out as night on digital camera – the blurs are the acrobats.

Been a very hectic few days, running around, early morning’s shiatsu and yoga - and then late night drinking, eating and networking - and investigating to business/ work opportunities in the time left in-between. Have met some very interesting people - think BA seems to attract the right sort of crowd. So keeping busy…

Click on photo to open gallery…
Nice little trip out of town, although fairly short and mainly to view some properties that I would like to buy.  Mendoza itself wasn’t that interesting, lots of tree lined streets and parks – nice posher suburb of Characas de Coria nearby that I liked, great houses and cute little church. The country side is gorgeous, lots of produce and nature – full of vineyards – peace and quiet.  Did a day trip out of town, but as it was a Sunday there were less wineries open - shame – still got to try out a big and a boutique one, really interesting to see and learn all about making and drinking wine. Also went to an olive oil farm, also fun (and more tasting!). Then bused it down to San Rafael, saw some great properties, all have their pluses and minuses… definitely gives me food for thought – and will also check out Uruguay and Chile in the next few weeks, so I can decide on exactly where I will be going and what I will be doing in the near future. Still thinking and deciding, and enjoying the options, but not certain yet which way the wind will blow me.

Better known as the “Thong” where I come down under - which I won’t use as that mean fairly different things in other parts of the world. Anyway, the last four days I have had the constant reminder that while boots are made for walking (whether or not all over you (sorry quoting the song)), the flip flop is not; so while travelling do not I repeat DO NOT attempt to walk over 5kms or all day in them. I’ve had blisters for days (still have), and couldn’t wear any open shoes despite the heat… well actually I did which caused the blisters to get even worse. At least I know for next time, kinda surprised I didn’t know already….