guifqergiue

I hate the U Of C.
They really know how to ruin my day.
Way to go.

They also made my whole group study lie to the government and to Mexico, which may have a relation as to why I was asked to talk to the immigration officers upon arrival.

Lazy blogger

Clearly I made it home and had a fabulous time in Mexico.
Update on life:
-The U of C continues to screw me over
-Books on love confuse me
-Cheese from Mexico in my Kensington fridge never looked so good
-The Calgary International airport hates me
-Proud of the Dutch team!
-Canada Day 2010 was funn
-My friends make the world go around
-Toms wedges in NYC soon
-Working 12 hour shifts aren't so bad
-Planning my life is harder than I thought
-Road blocks are, OK after all
-I love all beaches
-Planning NYC on a dime
-I am proud to say I'm wearing less makeup these days
-Calgary is boring
-Missed out on the Marc Jacobs store In Mexico City
-Veracruz has a tinny aiport.
-I'm defiantly going to Mazatlan with my family for Christmas!
-Where is the sun in this country?


Well I am currently planning my trip to NYC. Refreshing my mind of the metro and great eats. Upon return I plan to save my pennies to make my way to Mexico within the next few months.

HIJA SOY VIEJA!

What the hell has she been up to?

Well my friends, the last week has sure been hectic.
Not only did I get a year older, I also saw a ton of things.
Last week class got pretty intense. We had to plan out our research project and start some other presentations.

My Latin American studies research project is about the plans that 12h grade( tercea de prepa) want to do after high school. I want to know if there is a big difference between the females at private an public school. How are things changing for women in Mexico? Do they wish big? And why? Why are some choosing certain degrees?

This afternoon Sandra and I went to the Prepa de Caracaz. It is a private school that goes from k-12. From observation, the children at the high school level did not have to wear a full uniform and the rest did. The traditional plaid, white and black outfit. What I found interesting, was that the teachers even had a uniform. They looked very cute and modern .

I survey a class of 36. After that two female students from that group volunteered and had the lovely experience to be interviewed by me. Sandra observed and children and school, while I questioned them about there lives. I wanted to know their future plans, education background, family life and hobbies.


The results are great! The two girls were also so sweet and interesting!
Such a great experience to check out a school in Mexico.
This school was very different than any high school or school I’ve seen in Canada.
Drawings to come..

Later this week a pulic school.


MEXICO CITY!
Thursday night I went out with my group and some of my roomies!
Earlier that day, Kate , Abril and myself went for tacos. I had a gringa. Pork and Pinnapple…and FYI: its called a gringa because its made with a white flour tortilla…not because of some silly American tourist connection…

Later , we checked out a margarita place…with an open bar..
Then headed to Kuranderas! Love it there! Great music, good dance floor and normal servers. Had my share of tequila, spiced rum and coke and orange juice and god knows what.

That night ended at 3:30 am? Upon arrival to the Uni, Lisa and I hit up the 24/7 convenient store. I needed regeneration with some chips and Gatorade.
Then chilled on my red couch….


That morning at 630 am. I was up and trying to pack and be a functioning member of society. Then got my ass to the bus, by 720. OFF TO MEXICO CITY!

Crashed pretty hard and about 2 hours later, I was in the big city!Saw the differences in Puebla and Mexico City, right away. Made it to the hotel and changed for the adventure..

Checked out : ( yes holy shit..a lot in 2 and half days..)
Fridas house, La casa azul ( HIGH LIGHT!)
La Zona Rosa ( a lot of gay porn)
Coyoacan
Calle Amterdam
Went for Tacos
Starbucks Mexico City Style ( Nice baristar, then Kalista and I got high on that..)
Had tres Leches!
My lovely group sang to me!
Museo de Bellas Artes ( Diego rivera all over)
Fuentes en todos lados
Danza forklorica ( high light)
Museo de Antropologia ( wayyy big)
Museo de artes populares ( sweet pictures to come)
French bakery
Comi paletas de fruta!
More Gringas!
Had pellea
Too many OXXO’s
El primer Samborns
El angel de la independencia
El zocalo
Italian pizza( she posed for our cameras..)
Saw a 15th birthday going on
La catedral
Virgen de Guadalupe
El palacio nacional ( sweeet!! )
El templo mayor
Hidalgo...


What else?..oh wait..I haven’t had a moment to think for the last 4 days…

This morning the group and I did a tour of the VW factory in Puebla.
It turned out to be very interesting.
The workers have benefits and 25 cent delish meals everyday.
The Bora is only made in Mexico, but It’s the Jetta V2 elsewhere.
They couldn’t call the Fox , Fox when Fox was president, so they changed it to the Lupe.
The plant has given a lot of people jobs and a future.
I only saw one woman in the whole factory part. There are tons in admin.
The Germans have crazy rules..we couldn’t wear earrings or belts there…


Peace out!

Cuetalan

A FEW MORE...

Why do the girls here have such high standards for men?
Do men like that even give birth in Canada?
Is it related to Machismo?
Has my roommate ever cooked?
Are all young girls who cook seen as old women?
Do the cleaning ladies prefer mexican girls or canadians?
Are the doctors on campus paid privately? Since its a private university..
Are soap operas ever on repeat?
Can that spanish exchange student girl, Elsa, put history behind her and make friends easier? and vise versa?



Stella got her groove back...

For this edition, I should say, Estella got her salsa back..

Hasta luego..

Nos vamos a Puebla hoy...por un Tour..Hoy para cena...vamos a comer desayuno por cena..

20 facts.

Hola!
Aparently I like to write after a long night out.

well news flashes here...

1. my field journal is doing well( the ligit verson for my class)
2. I got some sort of something in my tummy...( shouldn't eat fried meat, fatty foods, dairy..)
3. on a sushi diet
4. dancing in my panties to hey rosetta is pretty much.
5. going out with bottle service, is pretty rad after all
6. not all places give you a crazy server.
7. got my jeans back from Erneto...$4 baby!
8. Saw Diego de Sigala and a flamenco dance crew Wednesday night at the Zocalo. Part of the international Puebla festival.
9. Ate pizza...mexican...
10. Had mc donalds my accident..NOT BUENO.
11.love my roomate
12. we peed our pants laughing till 3 am the day we met.
13.Ernesto lost a girl downtown.
14. She's a smart girl, she got home.
15.being out of water sucksss
16. Going on a weekend adventure!
17. Spanish class in the meditation garden
18. Ew gringos here..
19. Nice nurse.
20. I wanted Cheetos..got chile cheese one..Everything has chille..sexy?.

Mid summer nights mango drinking fest.

I'm addicted to Del Valle mango nectar juice.

I think I drink a liter a day.

Holy yes!

Just bought an ice cold one for my studying marathon.
Since tomorrow night I'm going to check out some live flamenco and I have 3 things due Thursday , I better get it all done now!
I'm feeling extra motivated to get my monday homework done too.
This weekend will be a good one!
On top of it all, my jeans will be ready tomorrow!
Oh Ernesto..you so think my jean will be ready tomorrow..so Canadian..we will see =)

It's about to rain....

Boom

Hola!
The last few days have brought change. I now have a roommate. Her name is Ely and she is from Cordoba, Mexico.We laughed our asses off till 3 am her first night here. It really made me think about how in Canada, we are more liberal for the most part. I told her about baking banana bread, working , my cooking boyfriend, u of c student life ( or lack there of..) Ernestos Canadianess( he my proff from the U of C who is here with us) he is VERYY Canadian..In the sense of time . If he says we are meeting at 9 am in reception, he means he is leaving at 8:58. Crazy dude. Chillax please and get into Mexican time. That means we aren't leaving till 9:15 am. She enjoyed my little anecdotes about life.

On the brighter side of things, Ernesto's sister is going to fix my beloved William rast jeans. He said they may even be ready by today.

This weekend, we are going to a water fall. Before that, this wednesday, we are going to Puebla's Zocalo to check out some free flamanco! I'm pumped! I also need to look into getting tickets for David Bisbal ! He's coming to Puebla June 10th! It would be a grand'ol time to check him out again!

The picture is from Pueblas zocalo( main square)

Till next time.

cultural understanding

Here is a photographic play by play

UPDATES

Hello fellow readers

I would like to update you on my life, on this not so sober saturday morning.
In the last few days, I have visited many things, I climbed a few pyramids in Cholula, saw the Puebla cathedral, many churches , Puebla town square, experienced mojitos by the liter, ate cemita( puebla style),ordered tortilla espnaola in Puebla, went to two markets, interviewed locals for class, had mole poblano, also did my own social experiment at the bar , tanned and hit the pool

Thats pretty much what I've been doing, in some ass weird order. I suppose, I also had class from monday to thursday.

It has been such a lovely experience !

HIGH LIGHTS:

1. Social experiment at the bar.
I decided I would dress in some menswear , jean shorts, white tank tucked in, brown braided belt, blazer, a ton of bangles, flat saddles, hair down though. So semi boyish and semi girlish. I didn't want any male attention and wanted to see how a mexican man would react. Would they talk to me in my not so feminine attire ? I also drank my mojito by the liter and order a few wings. I needed food, the mojitos were a better deal by the liter and I wasn't embarrassed. I wasn't being the stereotypical femine mexican girl or gringa on holidays.
- The family members of Ernesto ( my proff from Calgary who is here ) didn't come on to me at all. They simply acted friendly and as If I were from another planet, because I wasn't super girly.
No creepy men grinded me, slapped my ass, talked to me or anything. I love this recipe. Its the perfect combo of comfy and not asking for too much attention in Mexico. I will continue to be a good girl and dressed down while going out. Saying this, doesn't mean I haven't been but I did notice cars slowing down the days the girls and I wore dresses and were feminine.

t.b.c.

En mi casa.

This is my house! I love the balcony !

....and the outside view

Los Mexicanos=Conejillos de Indias.

Had a freaking amazing iced chai today, at punto del cielo.

Mmm yes.

Me llamo..el primer dia de classes.

hi!!!

Today was the kick off to classes!
Got up at 7:30 am, had breakfast and chilled till my 11 am class.
My 11 am class reminds me of many classes I have taken in the last year.
A combo of cultural subjects, mexican film, mexican music and all things mexican!
The prof is Jesus, or Chuy for short! Hes a grad student and super friendly.
Luckily there are only 6 people in the class.
Its great!
Then I had lunch, chilaquiles and salad? mm and mango juice of course!

Then walked around, took pictures...

After that were the two latin american study courses.
I LOVEED IT!
Had suggestions for the mexico city trip and glorious ideas were flowing in my mind and on paper!
Enough of that...

Hit up the mall and went to Mega( the grocery store)
Mmm i love mexican food!

Yesterday was nice too

went for a run on the track...and had subway..yes yes..i know..mexican subway..it was just near by..Ok


Pictures of the Uni people!

Enjoy!

xoox

Dumpster Diving Mexico Edition

Hola!
It was nice to finally get out and see the outside world in full view!
Brief summary of the day:
-Went and chill near the outdoor pool
-The food that I had in the fridge was thrown out..
-The entire building is now empty
-Went fishing for pitchers in the garbage
-Notice the mass amounts of garbage, kitchen supplies, unopened food that was exiting the residence rooms and going straight to the garbage. Made me really sad..
-Went for a walk down the circuito.
-Had amazing tacos , horchata and quesadillas.
-Container City rocks!
-Played soccer in the pouring rain

This day was a little exhausting...So I suggest that if any of you, have any questions, concerns or would like more details about any activities, i would love to share them with you.All you must do is ask, and I will deliver the scoop.

Tomorrow will be the reading and working out day!
I'm pumped to get in shape and utilize all the facilities!

Good Night Mexico

Last couple of days

Some visual aids for everyone.

fuimos a un antro, English...

A couple comments from last night:

cheap drinks
hot fries
bottle service
felt like maybe we were exploiting mexicans
mexican men can reallllly piss me off
Im just a direct kinda girl.
botte service..yes im going to mention that again
good times
i love rusian girls.

fin.

Questions.

remarks of the day and questions:

How do the locals view of UDLAP ( Universidad de las Americas Puebla)?
-Since it is gated and offers many programs geared towards foreigners ..

How much is too much or too little to tip the boy who packs up your groceries?
-I tipped 10 pesos, he was so careful with my mug and even wrapped my cutlery with paper.

Was I supposed to tip the lady who made our whole group iced cappuccinos at the bank?
-Might I add,they wee fantastics, free and not overly sweet!

p.s. Did I mention I had a balcony in my room...

hola amigos!

Hello hello!

My apologies for the minor freak out last night.
All I needed was a hot shower and some grub.
This morning I woke up bright and early for a great breakfast and a tour.

This University ( UDLAP) is fantastic. Here are the brief high lights:
A ton of study place, an outdoor pool, many coffee shops,fashionable seating in the library , outdoor everything, warm delish food, hair salon , video game room, a combo of modern and old, friendly staff, many free computer labs and its is very clean!

I feel like the U of C is just a dump after walking around this campus. The colors and fountains just brighten it up a ton too!

After the tour and receiving our Ids, we went to walmart.
For nearly $40 I definitely bought some key things. ( lime flavored chips, japonesas , oaxaca cheese ...)

I'm going to shower, write in my field journal, eat, then go out with the girls!
Its been fantastic getting to know everyone and their stories. Reminds me of that Amanda Marshal song, Everybody's got a story.

Miss you guys =)

Picture: Jess and I in Mazatlan in 2005 ! Good times !

all she needed was a hot shower and hot food.

*** from yesterday***

I’m typing this on May 13th at 10:37 pm local time.
I have been in Puebla for about 5 hours. Its super pretty here.
The university is called UDLAP for short.
I’m not really in the mood to describe the scenery or colorful buildings.


I’m just feeling like an outsider and Its not a nice feeling.
Most of the other students I’m with are in the same building, myself and a few others are spread out into other rooms.

At first I thought it would be great. Then I got to my bare room and noticed there was nothing on the other side.
The only thing I saw was a massive clock on my supposed roommates closet. I had to hurry to get to dinner so I just crammed all my stuff into the closet and managed to get my tinny lock on the door and left.

Made it to the caff and had several things on my mind.
1- My room is sure far from everyone else .
2- I feel like everyone is done eating by now.
3- Sucks to be me. Being dropped off last and alone ain’t cool…
4- Aka: UNINTENTIONAL SHAFT.

I’m probably just being an emotional baby. Then after the tour and such, a few girls and I got some snacks. After that I just took my snacks to my room. Noticed the bedding had finally come and that I actually had no roommate.
Many of the Mexican students are finishing up there term and moving out.
Sounds nice, right? But after arriving To Mexico City, taking a bus to Puebla and missing the hot dinner, I have no one to vent to. Or even talk to for that matter. The other girls ( which are probably Mexican) are part of this rez thing and are packing to leave. There are boxes and bottles in the common area. I know the feeling of just wanting to go home and having things to do. So why the hell would they want to socialize if they are just leaving by Monday? Makes sense…but it sucks to be in my position…

Well tomorrow will be a better day. Hopefully I will get a hot meal and my Internet code. I actually wouldn’t mind doing something too. Friday, we are touring the campus and receiving our Id’s as well. Hopefully people want to come visit me in my dorm or go out. I need a hug actually.
I feel like someone coped out when they hugged me today and its been on my mind ever since. Hug me like you love me and don’t be embarrassed. I feel slightly ripped off and forgotten.

Being a girl sucks in times like this.
I’m not too sure, but I hear a bass from out the window….There is probably a night club near by ….

Tip: Depressing or mellow music really isn’t going to enhance this feeling. John Mayer and the majority of my ITunes needs to die.


I should take a shower and realize there are worst things in the world.

Urg.


About 45 minutes later:

Feeling more myself. I showered and talked to Riley. I think I just needed to talk to a human being or something. Also let him know I’m alive.

I also tried my new live clean, two in one shampoo / conditioner. Its sulfate free, among other things, very similar than the keratin shampoo I used after my keratin hair treatment. The benefit of this brand, is that it is less expensive than the keratin variety plus I prefer the smell and lather.

I just took a walk through the kitchen. I have noticed that throughout the airport, streets and even at UDLAP, the garbage is divided in 3. There are the recyclables, compost and paper. I believe those are the three. Even in my floors kitchen, there is a tray for each type of trash. I love that. Its something a more developed country, such as Canada should be doing on a wider scale and have it be mandatory.

In addition to my first green observation, there are many many signs reminding students to use water wisely and turn the lights off. I feel as though, it is not reminded to us Canadian as often . Last comment from this area of interest would be the vegetarian organic cafeterias on campus. We don’t have free access to it, but I would love to check it out. Food is considerably less expensive here, so I imagine the this cafeterias is a little pricier for Mexican standard, but not something unreasonable for Canadian standards.

Ticking time.

I will be at the airport in 12 hours.

Still need to hit up Kaffa and go for a walk...and finish packing..right.

I should probably catch up on my CIty and Hills episodes.( As unfortunate and low as that sounds)

Last night I saw my dearest friends. Ashley gave the table an education on cosmetics and we exchanged some good laughs. Jess is living the life now, she is about to graduate ( the first, might I add) and is relaxing a little before hitting up the work force! I'm so proud of her accomplishments!

I wonder what grown ups do?...

In other news, today the man friend updated his wardrobe and purchased his first pair of toms! It only took him over 2 years to get on that .In addition , we made it a point to hit up Tim Horton's this morning. Breakfast sandwich and tea! Nothing like a good ol' Canadian deal

Till next time ! Hopefully they let me in to Mexico...

p.s. The photograph is from 2006, us girls looking fresh faced and pumped to enter post secondary institutions. How cute.

Introduction:

( el pastel que mis qeridas amigas me hicieron para mi cumpleanos)

( My Mexican flag cup cake cake, that my dear friends made)

Hello dear friends / Querid@s amig@s

I am only a few days away from the big departure. I leave Thursday morning at 5:30 am. I am mostly packed and ready to go. The last minute list is being crossed out by the minute. I still need to fix a dear summer dress and get my contact lenses. Those things just take moments, but can’t be forgotten.

In addition to the packing and 4 types of sun protection, 3 bathing suits, 1 dictionary, 1 pair of sneakers I must also complete a hefty amount of reading. Its really not as bad as I think, it just needs to be done. Getting things done is clearly key. I can’t be distracted !The new cable tv connection or long lost friend who reappeared are constant distractions. I suppose being organized and motivated is really in the grand recipe for post-secondary victory and further success as well.

The following are my wishes, hypothesis and goals for the field study:

1. 1. will be constantly writing in my field journal.
2.My pencil crayons will be essential in the creation of visual aids.
3.I will eat Tres Leches at least once a week!
4.I hope to be knowledgeable regarding all parties running in the election.
5.The Mexico City Trip on my birthday weekend will be unforgettable.
6.The newly found Trio will Skype!
7.My Spanish class will saturate my mind with new info.
8.I will not tan too much.
9. Be a mentor!
10..Antonio and I will go to the beach!
11.I will learn from my fellow colleges.
12. Be positive!
13.I will purchase a cute Mexican style glass cup set.
14.I will spend my Ashley pesos wisely and document the spending of them.
15.Puebla Mexico 2010 WILL change my life.

That’s it for now. I will report back to this online page soon with updates , pictures, dreams and experiences.

Till next time. Hasta luego.