Wow! Talk about completely letting go and taking a break!
Chile was wonderful, the weather was great, the experiences were rich and unforgettable. Best of all, the reason for us going was because my grandmother was ill, but my Abuelita Maria was in amazing spirits and her health was great. Plus, for the first time in about 5 years, I actually truly relaxed, I took a break from everything. Its so liberating not to be brought down by worries...I actually didn't pick up a paper, listen to the news or even worry about politics, homework or everyday issues. Since I've become more activist, I've been either out of state or out of the country almost every weekend since September...whew, I need a nap.
Since I was there for a week, I was only able to visit the countryside and took pictures of only that. Where I was actually staying, in the city, with my grandmother, is very suburban looking---I actually didn't take pictures of what it looks like around where she lives, just all of us hanging out on the patio.
I think I'm going through major culture shock and jet lag. Well, I just resumed normal American living but I still feel so out of place. I always feel empty this way when I come back from Chile, its so beautiful and inviting, not to mention economically stable. Oh how I miss it already... I seriously plan on moving there when I am economically able to and stay there for a bit before I move in with Armando (which may be soon actually
, so we'll see...)Well, here are a few pictures, hope you enjoy!
View of the Andes Mountains from Santiago, the city (the grayish area above the street lights aren't clouds but actual mountains! If I hadn't taken the picture, I wouldn't believe it myself, its much clearer and beautiful in person):
My Tia Lucy (left) and grandmother cooking:
All of Abuelita Maria's granchildren, including great grandchildren and grandchildren-in-law:
A private park in a very posh restuarant in Limache that my aunt invited us to:
The Pacific coast from one of the most beautiful places in Chile (and where I plan on living), Viňa del Mar:
The sun setting in Viňa:
The horses I rode in KonKon:
The vinards that line the roads on the way to Vina (anyone who drinks Chilean wine- this is where its grown):
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