Day 37 •• July 2

     The end is near. I'm on my last flight; Boston bound. 

    Anyhow, to pick up where I left off yesterday, we were on our 2nd flight (Lima to San Salvador). That went well. When we landed we thought we had an hour layover. But at that point, we had been enough that not much surprised us. Except for finding out that our flight was delayed by 5 hours. Seriously? Well, we can at least watch US vs. Belgium, we thought. >_< It was just one of those days.

    Anyhow, since we had to deal with the delay, the airline gave the passengers $120 credit. Which kinda makes it better. Kinda. We arrived in Dulles at 1:15am. Then we stood in line for customs for 45 minutes ... and then came the goodbyes. :'( 

    My aunt picked me up at the airport, so I was able to grab a few hours of sleep at their house before she brought me to the Baltimore airport. When I stepped inside my heart sank. There were people everywhere! When I finally got to check my bags (45 minutes later) the guy said that since I checked in late (only by a few minutes) my bags might not make the plane. So, we'll see. 

---- 

    I'm home. Got my bags without trouble, and Daddy picked me up soon after. Stopped by Chipotle on the way home (ha!) It's really nice to be back, but I'm starting to get homesick for ISAM. I suppose that's just the way it goes. ¡Chau!

Day 36 •• July 1

     I'm on flight number 2; Lima, Peru to San Salvador, El Salvador. We've been through so much to get to this point. 

    Sunday evening, after saying our goodbyes we drove south for 45 minutes to a bus station. But after standing with all our luggage for 2+ hours we started to get suspicious. Where on earth was our bus? Then Arturo checked our tickets closer. They were for the next evening. Well, then. So after a few phone calls, we managed to board the next bus heading in somewhat the right direction. That was around 10:30pm. At 6:30 the next morning, we were literally dropped on the side of the highway. There, we huddled in the cold for 4 hours until the next bus came to bring us closer to the Adventist university. We ended up digging sleeping bags and extra clothes out of our suitcases and there we sat, on our luggage watching The Incredibles on Sarah's tablet. Those are definitely memories we won't forget. 

     When we finally arrived at UAP (Universidad Adventista de Plata), we ate lunch in the cafe and then had a tour of the university. It's really nice! By the end, we all asked for more info on the abroad study package. I'm seriously going to considered going for 6 months to a year. We were able to take showers at Arturo's mother's house and down the street at his in-law's. Then we boarded a van that brought us the 6 hours down to the airport in Buenos Aires. 

   We arrived there at 2am. Saying goodbye to Arturo was wicked hard. He and his family are such incredible people. Anyhow, when we finally got through security and arrived at our gate, we found that our plane had been delayed by an hour. That meant that we we arrived in Lima we'd have less than an hour to get off the plane, go through security (again), and run across the airport to the correct gate. When we got off the plane, we were greeted with a huge line to international security. We thought we were going to miss our flight for sure. But thankful, Andy was able to convince them to let us through ahead of everyone. So now we're finishing our second leg of our journey home.

Day 34 •• June 29

     We're in a car heading away from ISAM. Away from everything we've considered home for the past 4 weeks. Away from all the friends we made. It was hard saying goodbye. Really hard. 

    Yesterday was just a really chill day. It rained the entire time! We felt so bad for those out in the rainforest. Sabbath School, church service, lunch, nap time, supper... the norm. But after supper, (and sundown) Sarah and I joined Nico at Communications to watch The Matrix. I'm surprised I hadn't seen it before. Well, I'd seen parts, but not the whole movie. It was really great! Afterwards, I Skyped home... well "home" as in my family who are down at SVA at Campmeeting. That night Sarah and I slept over with the girls in room 10. We didn't go to sleep till 1am. But we had a great time! 

     After breakfast, I chilled and basically did nothing, as my roommates were sleeping in, therefore not allowing me to finish packing. For lunch, a bunch of us went to Ricchezza for "the last supper". We headed back to the school around 2pm, as that was when the Pathfinders were supposed to be back. But, no surprise, they didn't show. So I went to the dorm and packed up the last of my stuff. They arrived back around 3:30pm. Covered in mud, soaked to the bone, and how they stunk! Of course, Sarah got a nice big hug from River and some of the others. Oh how she loved that. (That last sentence was dripping with sarcasm.) After they all showered and changed clothes it was great to hear how it all went. While they still had an impressive trip, they did have to change their route, due to the excessive rain. 

     I hung out in the hall of the guy's dorm with Sarah and the others until supper time. (Attached to the dorm is the small gym and Sala Manga, so the hallway is usually open to whoever wants to play ping pong or just chill in the few large chair/couch like things.) 

     After supper I went up to my room to retrieve my bags. As I started down the stairs the goodbyes begun. Almost everyone turned out to see us off. It got really emotional. I'm going to miss everybody so so so so so much. Right now all I want is to go back to ISAM for a few more days. It's only been 20 minutes, but I miss everyone terribly.

Day 32 •• June 27

     Today the Master Guides left for their expedition. In the pouring rain; no surprise there. River and Reiss are with them. (I really wanted to go, but my knee is acting up and I'm still recovering from being sick.) After sending them off with well wishes, Sarah and I returned to the dorm to pack. We had permission from the dean to skip classes. So we chilled and packed... somewhat. Actually, we got about 80% packed. 

    For lunch we were supposed to meet "the girls" for lunch across the street at Ricchezza (the local restaurant) to celebrate a birthday. But unbeknownst to us, they chose to eat at the cafe. By time we figured out that they weren't coming, our stomachs has already decided to stay. So Sarah, James and I hung out there for a while. 

     That afternoon we just chilled. We hung out in Communications with Nico until sunset, when everything closed for Sabbath. Vespers at the church was okay. It was really different to not have those who were out on the expedition.

Day 31 •• June 26

     Today was Science Fair. It's also our last day with the whole school. So, before the fair started at the gym, Uncle Andy gave us all some SVA stuff to give to our friends as souvenirs. The Science Fair was quite nice; there were probably 3 dozen booths. I walked around with a ISAM yearbook and a soccer ball for my sister and had a bunch of people sign both. I'm really going to miss everyone here. 

     At 12:20, a group of us gathered at the library. We had each been told to invite a ISAM friend to lunch. We ate lunch in Alem at the casino of all places. Actually, the food was really nice (an all-you-can-eat meat buffet) and they showed USA vs. Germany. 

    Once we returned to ISAM, Sarah and I paid our tab at the store. Then we chilled for a while ... eventually wandering down to Communications. There, we hung out with Nicko, Kevin & Erik. I was able to enjoy the experience of Nicko watching Monty Python (The Holy Grail) for the first time. We skipped supper & vespers and just chilled. The internet is better on the computers, so we were able to watch YouTube videos. Around 8:30pm, Kevin left to go pack for the backpacking expedition. By 10, we had to lock up the office, so Sarah, Kevin and I went over to the building where the Pathfinders were packing their backpacks. We hung out there until 10:45, when people started leaving for the dorms.

Day 30 •• June 25

     We just said our official goodbyes. I cried. Everyone here has become our family. I'm starting to dread Sunday coming as much as I'm waiting for it. I don't want to leave, yet I do. We presented for vespers tonight. Myself, Sarah, Reiss and Kevin performed a medley of How Great Is Our God / How Great Thou Art / Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone). James and River (with help) acted out a skit they wrote about their experience here at ISAM. It was hilarious. They did a fantastic job! Then we were all called up and Carolina & Pastor Nelson prayed for us. That's when I started to cry. Afterwards, Uncle Andy instructed us stand outside in the church foyer and hug everyone goodbye. I love these people. When I went back into the sanctuary to get my guitar and phone, a short meeting with the master guides was happening. It was about the expedition that happens this weekend. I stayed for it, but unfortunately I'm not going. I'm still sick, and just recently my knee started to act up (again!) I didn't attend school this morning because I awoke feeling terrible, so the dean sent the doctor to my room. Thankfully, she said it seems to be just a long lasting virus. (I've been feeling sick basically this entire trip.) 

     Anyhow, after the meeting, we talked with Uncle Andy. Kevin has arranged for me to get a senior jacket! But also, tomorrow there is the Science Fair and then we're hearing into town for lunch. We've each invited a ISAM student to join us. The Riveras leave tomorrow evening for Buenos Aires and we'll join them on Sunday at UAP (an Adventist university somewhat close to Buenos Aires).

Day 29 •• June 24

      I considered skipping classes today, with the excuse that I'm sick ... I'm glad I didn't. Today was the day that the seniors got their Letterman jackets. (Something you have you understand is, is that here they try to make any occasion an excuse for a party.) For the past while, they've been planning how to present the jackets. So they came up the idea to have a video contest. Each class made a video showing the class spirit towards the Argentinian World Cup fútbol team. They played the videos in the gym today. Each one was nice ... but when 5th's started playing there was a unique ending. A girl walked over to the group in the video with a trash bag. The seniors then turned and started to open the bag. That's when the video stopped. Then one of the teachers walked down the aisle with a similar black trash bag. He threw it up onto the stage at the front of the gym. A few seconds later two senior boys ran up to the stage and started to tear at the bag. That was our cue. Us seniors swarmed the stage shouting and throwing confetti. The jackets we distributed (unfortunately only half came in) and chaos reigned. After everyone calmed down, the 2nd grade (freshman) was crowned the winners of the video content and cake was enjoyed by 2 & 5. (Us seniors get included by default. Sorry Nicko!) 

     After lunch, a group of us gathered at the Rivera's apartment. Tomorrow we're supposed to present something at Wednesday night vespers. Myself, Sarah, Reiss and Kevin decided on performing How Great Is Our God. So we practiced at the music building until it was time for my Spanish class. After class, it was PE which I skipped due to my right knee and foot bothering me. Afterwards, we 4 gathered at the music building again to practice until supper. Tonight I skipped vespers. I'm feeling blahhh. Kinda like I did the first week I was here.

Day 28 •• June 23

     As soon as breakfast was over, we gathered outside of the library, trying to keep out if the pouring rain. Myself, Sarah, River and James had decided to accompany Mr. Rivera to Posadas. After Arturo dropped us off at the same bus station we had arrived in 3 weeks earlier, we acquired our tickets and boarded a bus for the hour and a half ride to the capital of Misiones. There, we discovered that no ride had been arranged for us, so we took a taxi to the Posadas SDA academy. (The same school that visited ISAM a week or so before.) While Uncle Andy sat through some meeting, us students were being interrogated by the 3rd level class (sophomores). We left the school around noon, going in two cars to the mall-ish place next to the bus station. After losing connect with the other car, myself, Sarah and James found ourselves at the mall with our driver (the school's chaplain) with no idea were the others were. Unfortunately, the chaplain had forgotten his cell, so we wandered around the stores for a half hour before we were reunited at the food court. Duh. 

     Anyhow, after eating lunch, we checked out the different stores for a little while before heading back to the bus station to arrange our return trip to ISAM. Once that was concluded, we took another taxi to a cheap shopping center near the bridge that connects Argentina to Paraguay. After browsing through the stalls selling numerous cheap goods, we walked over to the Parana  river and took pictures near Border Control. Around the time we finished our picture / video taking, it was 5pm. So we took another taxi (that meant us 4 students crammed in the back seat) to the bus station. Thankful, we caught a bus just as it was leaving. 

     By time we arrived in Alem, it was past suppertime, so we ate supper at the restaurant across the street from the school. We've become regulars there. It's hard to believe we have exactly a week left! Well, as of typing this, we have 7 days, 11 hours and 17 minutes until we arrived back at Dulles. Yeah, we're just slightly excited to come home. But at the same time, I wish we had another few weeks.

Day 27 •• June 22

     Yes, I know I've skipping quite a few days... but there's only a week left. I've done pretty well, right? But still, sorry! Friday was a chill out day. I slept in till lunch and then did nothing for the rest of the day. It was the beginning of a long weekend, so a bunch of students went home. Sabbath I woke feeling blahhh. So I skipped Sabbath School & Church to sleep. Also, I read most of Have A Little Faith by Mitch Albom which I was borrowing from Carolina. What a great book. By lunch I was feeling better. We chilled for the rest of the afternoon. Today, I was able to sleep in till 11. I'm feeling better, but still kinda blah. After lunch we gathered at the the biblioteca to head to Termas de la Selva, a spa fed by a natural hot spring. The place was pretty great. There are three pools (hot, medium, warm). The medium temperature was nice for a while, but we ended up spending most of our time in the warm pool. (Also, we were treating it more as a pool than a spa.) The hot pool was too much for me, but by alternating between the medium pool and the cold shower, I felt quite alive. My congestion went away, thankful. We had a really nice time! 

     Unfortunately, the internet once again won't let me upload pictures to here, so check out my Instagram (www.instagram.com/autumnmott) for photos. 

    After supper, we gathered across the street at the restaurant to watch USA vs. POR ... and SVA provided us with the gift of an all-you-can-eat ice cream buffet. Heck yeah! Even though Portugal got that last goal (sigh), we still had a pretty nice time. Tomorrow, a few of us will join Uncle Andy as he goes to Posadas, the capital of Misiones, Argentina. That should be fun.

Day 24 •• June 19

     The dean turned the lights on in my room at 5:30am. We international students (and Carolina) ate breakfast at 6:15 and were at the library by 6:35. Then came the 4½ hour bus ride up to Iguazú Falls. We also picked up Nicole in L.N. Alem. (Which is the town near us.) We stopped a few times for bathroom breaks, and also to buy some food for lunch. When we arrived at the national park, it was close to noon. After getting our tickets from Arturo, we proceeded to the falls. A week ago, they had record flooding, so only a portion of the walkways were open. But it was still incredible, nevertheless! It's hard to explain how majestic the falls were. We walked around for a few hours ... we were supposed to view the falls for around 5 hours, but due to the lack of open trails, we only stayed for 3 hours. After buying souvenirs, we drove to a nearby town to buy supper. It was nice to have a day to just hang out with *English speaking* friends. That's probably the hardest thing at this point: not being able to fully communicate with our friends.

Day 23 •• June 18

     Sorry for skipping yesterday, but nothing really happened. It was just one of those days. So was today. Most of it, at least. Get up, eat breakfast, go to classes. Eat lunch, do whatever in the afternoon ... blah, blah, blah. However, today I was in the computer lab for 6 of my 8 classes. Yeah! Unfortunately, my computer was like the only one that had Facebook blocked. But I was able to work on my online Algebra class ... and add 90+ YouTube videos to my Watch Later playlist. No joke. I subscribe to a bunch of channels. However, YouTube doesn't load well here, so I have a ton to catch up on when I get home. After lunch, I hung out in the Rivera's apartment while Sofia slept. Watched part of a movie and read a little.

     At 3:45 she awoke, so I handed her off to Uncle Andy (who had just returned from teaching) and went to get ready. We were supposed to head into town at 4, but the bus didn't arrive till 4:45. (Typical Argentinian schedule.) In town, we bought some souvenirs, but mainly walked around with Nicole. When Arturo met us outside a shop, he informed us that we were going to be on TV. ¡¿Qué?! (I doubt I used the correct punctuation...) Anyhow, Nicole led us to the studio where we were introduced to the crew. It's a local show for youth called In Connect. First, Nicole was interviewed, then we students (and Julia) we brought in to be recorded. We were all asked some questions, then filmed seperately stating our names, ages, where we were from, etc... It was cool, except for the whole last-minuteness of it all.

     Afterwards, we students were dropped off at the restaurant across the street for supper. The Riveras were eating at Nicole's. We had a great time; each ordered a pizza, and we shared Sprint and Fanta. The wifi there is good, so we were all able to connect with home. It was nice to spend time as a group. We're all homesick at this point, but at the same time, we're disappointed that our time here is coming to its end.

Tomorrow we head to Iguazú Falls at 6:30am. I can't wait!

Day 21 •• June 16

    Waking up to Paulina's alarm has because normal, now. Her phone goes off at 6, the dean comes in a few minutes later... we all go back to sleep. Around 6:20, Pauline will get up and get dressed. When she leaves to brush her teeth, I get up. Usually, we're both leaving before Lucia gets out of bed. Most of the time, breakfast consists of cereal, and bread with jam. Every so often, we'll get a pastry. From breakfast we head straight to school. If you arrived on time, you'll stake your desk with your backpack, then head back out to the courtyard for flag raising. After the flags are raised (sometimes accompanied by the national anthem), we'll have prayer and a few announcements. Then classes start. Due to the light breakfast, by time 12:30 rolls around, everyone stampedes to the cafe. Lunch tends to be mediocre ... but still better than cafe food back in the states. To be clear, Argentinian food is not Mexican food. Yes, we'll have rice beans a few times, but on the whole it's just different from US food. What sorely is missed is hot sauce. While the food normally isn't bland, it definitely could use some Siracha. 

     As today was Monday, we exchange students had work in the afternoon. But after helping with Inglés class, Sarah and I hung out at the Rivera's apartment. I watched Sofia, and Sarah washed some clothes. I just chilled for the rest of the afternoon ... but after supper us American gathered and went across the road to the restaurant to watch USA vs. GHA. We had a great time. There was plenty of pizza, ice cream and coke to go around. And the US won... that's a plus.

Day 20 •• June 15

     Thankfully, we were allowed to sleep in until 9, when breakfast was brought up to the gym. After we ate and packed up our stuff, we cleaned the gym. I went to the biblioteca after throwing my stuff in my room. There, I was able to connect with the rest of the world via wifi. The internet connection is weird... the best way to connect is by using one of the 6 school computers, but those are usually always in use. (So please excuse the condition of this blog!)

     Before Master Guide class, myself, Sarah & two other girls went across the road to the ice cream shop. They have some really good ice cream for cheap. $1.20 USD for two scoops. Now, it's not Kimball's quality, or quantity ... but it was good, non the less. For Master Guide, we worked on First Aid. We're preparing for our expedition. Afterwards, our leader talked with us each to make sure we were prepared for the trip. 

     When I went back to the dorm, some of the girls were watching Mission Impossible. The Spanish dubbing was horrible. Then they voted and started watching Hansel and Gretal: Witch Hunters. Unfortunately, the USB that the movie was on somehow reformatted 2/3 through the movie. (Basically all their movies are illegally downloaded.) That was actually kinda good, because apparently supper had been moved up to 6pm from 6:30, so everyone could watch the game at 7. They separated the guys and the girls, so Sarah and I watched the game squished in the girl's dorm. But it was fun. Most everyone had face paint and there were snacks passing around. But the noise, though! After the game finished (Argentina won) we ran through the halls shouting and singing. The atmosphere was so hype!

Day 19 •• June 14

     We were awaken at 8 by our Bible teacher turning on all the lights in the gym. After eating our personal breakfast, we gathered on the stage for Sabbath School. According to Carolina, SS consisted of 10 minutes lesson study and an hour of a "how to help your friends through difficult times" session. We had a 5 minute break before our church service started. After running around like the crazy teenagers we are, we were grouped into groups of 12. Six girls, six guys. When the PowerPoint flashed onto the wall, we discovered that we were the only survivors after a catastrophic wipeout of humanity. Basically the zombie apocalypse, except that everyone else died of an illness. Each group was given some food, weapons, and building material. We then had to figure out how we'd survive and procreate. Yeah. Just slightly awkward. But it didn't stop there. ISAM's school principal is a psychological, so he took everything to the next level. Unfortunately, by this point I couldn't understand anything, and it was too confusing for Carolina to translated. So James and I fell asleep. When lunch rolled around, I could feel the tension in the air. Carolina explained that the principal had been asking probing questions to the students about their life and history... then explaining how that would impact their survival. It got to a point when no one wanted to ask any questions. 

     After lunch, some of the girls went to take showers. Then at 2, some of us met at the flagpoles with the Pathfinders to head into town. We were to knock on doors to try and recruit more Pathfinders. Before and after the kids went out, we gathered at the church to sing songs and listen to a message. Once we got back to ISAM, us Seniors returned to the gym. We kinda hurried through the last bit of the apocalypse thing... nobody seem that interested in getting back into it. Then supper was served. After supper, everyone just hung out for a while. I joined the group of girls hanging out by the sound system. We started playing Truth or Dare ... with the mic. Delightful. Anyhow, soon we were all called out onto the gym floor. Then one of the teachers (I think) started calling out group formations. Groups of 3. So we'd group up in 3s. Groups of 6 .... groups of 8 ... groups of 2 ... if you didn't have the correct amount of people in your group, you guys were eliminated and watched from the sidelines. It's simple, yet so much fun. Then, once they got down to 3 people (started with 40) we were split into two groups. Relay races. Those were fun. Run around a chair with a volleyball pressed between two people's foreheads ... between their backs ... find candy in a bowl of flour with your mouth. Yuck. That last one was messy... and kinda gross. But my team won, 2-1. Sarah told me she could hear us all screaming down in her dorm room. 

     Then we all went down and took showers, as the dean was leaving the bathroom lights on for us. Once everyone was all changed and ready for bed, the movie started. It was Nonstop. By the end I swore I was taking a bus home ... or walking. But it was a good movie. Lights were turned off at 2am.

Day 18 •• June 13

     So, first things first, I know that today is my parent's anniversary, but I had no access to wifi today. Got it, Hannah? Good. I'm just hoping you got them a nice card and/or present and you forged my signature.

     Okay, now about today. This weekend is essentially Senior Survival. Today we were told to dress in clothes that you wouldn't mind getting dirty. Then we met in the parque and split into groups. Us girls hiked out to the abandoned building behind the school and started to remove the graffiti covering it. We went from using sandpaper, to water and brushes. But with water came flooding, so we swept the water out the doors. Naturally, that caused mud ... which brought on mud war paint. Then a group of us decided to ambush the guys who were working nearby. But when we got there, there were only a few guys. We covered them in mud, anyway. They were burning brush and starting work on a amphitheater of sorts. They were using rocks and clay to construct the seating. Soon, a load of rocks were delivered by a group of guys. We helped to unload and then myself and another girl joined the group of guys to head back for more. After wrestling a couple dozen 75lb rocks onto a farm wagon, we were all significantly covered in red clay. But on the 15 minutes tractor ride back from the query, the guys decided to have a mud fight. So by time we returned to the school, all 9 of us were coated in clay. We then decided that our classmates were too clean ... full. out. mud. fight. Before we were allowed back in the dorms, we were made to wash off the majority of clay with a hose. Even after that, I still walked into the shower fully dressed. It took an unearthly amount of shampoo and soap to removed the clay that had been inflicted on me. It felt so nice to be clean and dry. But that didn't last. 

     After lunch we met to continue work. It was misting out, but that didn't stop a group of us from progressing on with the amphitheatre. However, we are in the rainforest. And it isn't call "rainforest" for nothing. How bout a thunderstorm? That might make life difficult. I was getting to the point were I thought I might be best if I returned to the dorm, when the sky opened up. It's hard to move and arrange rocks when the water pouring down your face makes it almost impossible to see. So we called it quits. By that time, we were thoroughly soaked. Again. It this rate, I'm going to run out of dry clothes. After changing, I took a nap until supper. 

     Once supper finished, us Seniors gathered our sleeping bags and headed up to the large gym. (Which I've been incorrectly referring to as the parque; Parque, however, is what they call hanging out on Saturday night playing sports. My bad.) We chilled for a while, then had worship. At the end of worship, we were encouraged to pledge to end something in our life that was weighing us down. It got wicked emotional. I wish I could've understood more. Then everyone went to bed... or got into their sleeping bags and proceeded to talk for the next hour.

Day 17 •• June 12

     While today started out normal, it finished quite nicely. After lunch, I was able to Skype home for a little bit. Then I hurriedly finished my homework and went to Spanish class. Our teacher is chill. Even through she speaks no English, she tries hard to make us understand and with Google Translate to help here and there, we get by fine. After class, Sarah went to watch the opening ceremony of the 2014 Fifi World Cup. I decided to use that time to upload pictures to my blog. (You're welcome.) But I did make sure to watch all of the first game. Brazil vs. Croatia. Brazil won, 3-1. Unfortunately, here in Argentina, that's like the Yankees winning. Futbol (soccer) is like a religion here. American Football back at home is intense and controversial, but not like futbol here ... and it wasn't even their team! 

     Once the game finished, us exchange students (& Kevin) met outside of the biblioteca (liberty) as we were going to town for supper. Nicole was a international student at SVA last year, and she had invited us to her house. She and her mom picked us up in two cars. The boys with Mom, and Sarah and I with Nicole. We had a great time! First we played Spoons, then Uno... which went on forever! Then, the food was brought out. Empanadas and pizza, and pizza, and more pizza ... and then ice cream! It was great to just chill with her family. 

     On the ride back, Nicole said that we'd be coming over once a week ... and there's a chance us girls will have a sleepover with her. Sarah and I are so pumped.

•• even more pictures ••

Sorry for compressing some images into collages. They're just easier to upload. Once I get home, I'll post them all in full quality.

•• pictures ••

Day 16 •• June 11

     Today had been much awaited. It felt so great to wake up and know that we'd have no school. Instead, we we're going on a tour of a mate factory and then having a BBQ for lunch. After breakfast, Sarah and I returned to the now empty dorm and chilled for about an hour. That meant semi-cleaning our rooms, brushing our teeth and doing whatever else while listening to the Frozen soundtrack. At 8am, we met at the library to board the bus that would take us an hour south to Taragüi, a mate factory. 

     Okay, so mate here in Argentina is like coffee in the US. But up in northern Argentina, it's basically a religion. There are a plethora of different mates (pronounced ma-tay in English) to pick from, and according to some families, the blend they drink is the only "right" blend. There is also tereré which basically mate with cold water. But the flavor is slightly different. It's kind of like hot chocolate vs. chocolate milk. 

     Anyhow, at the mate factory, we were introduced to a number of different blends and also mate tea. Then we were shown a 15 minutes video on the history of Taragüi. After purchasing some souvenirs at the store, including some mate, we were given a tour of the factory. The first half was on foot, the seconds half was by bus, as we toured the drying building, the greenhouses... and the third half - just kidding. (Thanks, CarTalk) And last on our field trip was lunch at an typical Argentinian BBQ. At first, the vegetarian in me protested against this decision, but after having some wonderful beef filled empanadas, I allowed myself to try some lamb, as well. (I had already had chicken on the plane rides.) While we waited for the adults to finish dessert, we young ones amused ourselves with capturing and torturing some of the couple hundred flies. 'Cause what outdoor BBQ is complete without flies. (Grossest thing ever!) 

     As we approached ISAM once more, we were told that sophomores from a nearby SDA academy were here to check out our school. And while they were given a tour, we English speaker were supposed to circulate and let the kids practice their English with us. The students we met were really nice! Some of them spoke excellent English! After supper (which was empanadas again), we had to dress up for vespers, as Wednesday and Friday night vespers are in the church. Once vespers was over, the visiting students went up to the parque. Some of our students went up with them, but us international students stayed to ask some of the seniors some questions ... because we've been invited to join them on their senior retreat; a sort of senior survival ... except that we're just camping behind the school and still eating here for meals. Sounds like this will be interesting!

Day 15 •• June 10

     As I neared the doors of the cafeteria, I noticed the lack of backpacks lining the steps and walkway ... but while I was eating, River explained: today we were going into town to collect money for ADRA Argentina. Ohhh. After a few announcements at the flag pole, we gathered in our class rooms and paired up. I was placed with two girls (like normal, I don't remember their names) who spoke no English. However, that was probably best, as it forced me to figure out what they were saying. After arranging ourselves into pairs, we grouped at the church while we waited for the buses to be ready. The bus ride was quite amusing, as basically anything with the senior class is. We're always loud and obnoxious. Anyhow, in town we were assigned different sections to cover. Our section was mainly commercial, with a few residential buildings every so often. Unfortunately, we only collected around 100 pasos ... or around $10 USD. 

     Once we finished our area, the seniors gathered in the plaza. There we fooled around on the playground equipment and bought food from the nearby "supermarkets". (I added quotations, as their supermarkets aren't that much bigger than our gas station general stores.) 

     Once we returned to ISAM, we had about a half-hour until lunch. After lunch, which was veggies and a casserole of some type, I had an hour or so until my Spanish class. Class itself was okay. Our teacher is nice, however she speaks virtually no England, which is good, but sometimes a little English would help. While I understood most of the lesson, at the end we started to learn about future infinitive verbs. Oh, Spanish verbs, why must you be so complicated!? I was talking with Kevin (who was a student at SVA last year) and he said that English is easier to learn than Spanish ... delightful. I know I've only been here a for two weeks, but right now I feel as if I'm not making any headway. 

     During supper, however, the girls were teaching me how to say, eyes, nose, mouth, ears... etc. I'm keeping a list of Spanish words on my phone, so they typed up the word in Español and I translated it to Inglés. That helped, some. After vespers, Sarah and I hung out a few doors down the hall. The girls have panni makers that they use to make grilled cheese. Between that, cookies and music, we had a great time.

Day 14 •• June 9

     The normal. Up at 6:20, went to breakfast at 6:45, classes start around 7:15am. However, I was able to skip Philosophy and go to the library, as the class was having a test. At the library I ran into Valentina and the younger 3. She took me down to administration and helped me set up an account with the school's store. There they have snacks, school supplies and basically whatever else necessities you might need. 

     After lunch, we worked in the Inglés classes. Then Sarah, Reiss and Julia had Spanish class. I walked around the campus to get some fresh air. It gets really nice out when the sun shines. If the sun isn't out, then it's cold. I came back to my room and fell asleep around 3:30. When Sarah woke me up at 5:15, she informed me that I had totally missed the SVA & ISAM meeting at 4. Whoops. Completely forgot about that. Thankfully, since I'm not from SVA, I didn't play a huge role in the meeting. But still. 

     Supper was normal, neither excellent nor bad. After vespers (which I still can't understand) I hung out in Sarah's room. It was then that I was assured that girls are the same across the world. We all have crushes. We all have drama. Girl dynamics are crazy, worldwide. Sorry if these post are getting shorter with each passing day. It's just that our life is falling into a pattern, therefore there's not much to write about.

•• more pictures ••

Day 13 •• June 8

     When we woke at 8 and went down to the cafe, Sarah and I found that we had missed breakfast. Delightful. Apparently, desayuno is served from 6:30-8 on Sundays. Thankfully, there were Adventures in the cafe, so we were able to steal some food from them. We were supposed to go play tennis (I would watch, of course) in the morning, but it was raining. So instead, I went up to the parque and helped with Pathfinders. During the drill time, I was introduced to a new form of marching. I'll try to film it next Sunday, as it's too confusing to attempt to explain. 

     After lunch (which was french fries and burgers) we attended Master Guide. There we got more info about the expedition we're to go on. It's legit! We'll be backpacking quite a ways... through rivers up to out chests, bushwhacking through the rainforest, and sleeping under the stars. I can't wait! It should be interesting, as almost none of the kids going have the proper gear, myself included. Our leader has everything needed to keep us safe, but from there, basically anything goes. We're backpacking the last weekend we're here; June 27-29th. 

     After the meeting, our leader explained it to use few in English. Right after that, us international students gathered at the library. Then 18 of us boarded a 14 passenger bus that took us to the San Ignacio Jesuit ruins. It was incredible! I'll post pictures in the next post.

Day 12 •• June 7

     It was so nice to be able to sleep in until 8, when breakfast starts. The food is so good on the weekends! Sabbath School was nice. Church was okay. I think I'd appreciate it better if I could understand what was being said. Lunch was incredible! A full out three course meal. Soup & salad, squash and other veggies, ravioli, and dessert. Heavenly. 

     In the afternoon, Sarah and I chilled with our friends on the front lawn. It was nice just to relax in the sun. The AY meeting (which starts at 4:00) was okay. But as soon as it finished, there was the normal stampede to reach the cafeteria first, and therefore get a good table (tables are called to eat from front to back). 

     That evening, the wifi was turned back on (it's off during Sabbath hours). Sarah and I were able to use the wifi from the Communications office until the guys dean kicked us out from under the boy's dorm (but had had permission to be there ... but that didn't mean anything to him). So we went up to the parque and played sports until 11pm. Sarah stayed over my room, again... so we talked until midnight. I'm liking my time here, so far.

•• pictures ••

Day 11 •• June 6

     Slowly, these days are falling into a pattern. Wake at 6ish, breakfast at 6:30, classes start at 7. Lunch at 12:30, then either work or Spanish class afterwards. But today was a nice (and needed) surprise. After flag raising, us seniors went to Sala Magna (the hall in the guy's dorm) for information about graduation, instead of Bible class. There, we were handed fake report cards ... and then the juniors burst in with confetti and whatnot. Pandemonium broke loose. But it was great. We stretched out the celebration for a half hour. Then when we went to Philosophy class, we were told to go back up to Sala Magna, as the Seniors and 8th graders were going to received a second breakfast; reward for winning a contest sometime earlier. Sweet! Then it was back to classes... but my next class was Project. That means we go to the library to work on certain projects ... and since I don't have one, that means time with wifi for me! So, in total, I only sat through 3 out of 8 classes. I'm fine with that. 

     After lunch, Uncle Andy gathered us in their apartment just to give us an overview on how these past two weeks have been. While we're enjoying our time here, I think we're all reaching the point when homesickness sets in. After our quick meeting, Sarah and I washed our laundry in the apartment's huge sinks. Unfortunately, it's so humid here that our clothes won't dry for a few days. As it's the weekend, supper was good. 

     After supper, Sarah and I retrieved our instruments and brought them to Sala Magna. There, the juniors and seniors had worship. Uncle Andy was the speaker. Afterwards, we had cake and cold, hot chocolate. My guitar was passed around; a huge favorite of many. Then we went out to the bonfire behind the girl's dorm. Unfortunately, it started raining around 9:30pm. >_< But we still had fun in the dorm. Sarah and I hung out down the hall with a group of seniors and studied the Sabbath School lesson. Here at ISAM, the seniors teach the SS classes, which is cool. 

     Upon returning to my room at 11:30, I found that both of my roommates were sleeping over in different rooms. So Sarah and I lugged her mattress into my room and we talked and listened to The Piano Guys until we both fell asleep in the middle of a song. Feliz Sábado!

Day 10 •• June 5

     This was just one of those days. Breakfast was blah. Classes were blah. Lunch was blah. Spanish class was confusing. But the bright spot came when we found out we were skipping PE and having a personal history class, instead. Myself, Sarah and James (the other two had already gone to PE) were given a lesson on the history of Misiones. (If you check out Andy's blog www.svaargentina.blogspot.com you can get more info from one of his posts.) We're going to be visiting one of the abandoned missions in Las Marias on Sunday. Also, that lesson prepared us for the movie we watched after supper; The Mission with Robert De Niro as one of the lead roles, and Liam Neeson in a minor role, as he wasn't popular, yet. Arturo played the movie in a room adjoining the library. It was great, sad though. We all hung out on the couches and ate snacks. Good ending to a pretty blah day.

Day 9 •• June 4

     Wait... we've only been here for 9 days? Sometimes it feels like either we just got here, or we've been here forever.

     When I jerked awake after an intense dream, I was disoriented. Where the heck was I? Oh. So I rolled over and when back to sleep. 25 minutes later, I dragged myself out of bed, threw some clothes on and stumbled down to breakfast.

     It looked so familiar! And Hannah, I know you'll be amused to know that I didn't eat the apple, thus continuing my apple fast. (I only eat apples in September/October, long story.) Classes were eh. I'm understanding more, though. And during Sociology, while the students were taking an oral test one at a time, one of the girls in my class came up and introduced herself. But, like my father, I'm horrible with names, so, yeah. Anyhow, she has a love for languages, and has been learning English. She offered to be a translator and to help me learn Spanish, in return for English practice. Yay!!!

     For lunch, most of the Junior class (and I) when to the small restaurant across the road from the school. It was Kenny's birthday (a boy in their class) and so we celebrated by having pizza and hamburgers.

     These two ... don't get me started. It's a love/hate relationship. Friendship! Friendship! (I'm envisioning Sarah's reaction.)

     We helped with the Inglés class afterwards, then chilled in the library until 3:30 when it was time to go to town. In town, we bought some needed small items, toured a small museum and learned about the local culture.

It was enjoyable. Overall, our group gets along quite well.

When we got back to the school, it was the middle of supper. We quickly ate, then hurriedly dressed for Wednesday night vespers at the church. After worship, Sarah and I got permission to spend some time in the library with the college students, to obtain wifi. I've enjoyed my time here, so far. As I told Uncle Andy, this week I've decided to just listen and not talk much. I'm picking up on the rhythm of the words and the accent. Slowly, I'm learning to say more and more. I'm hopefully that by week 4, I should be communicating with more ease.

Day 8 •• June 3

     It was an internal struggle, but when my alarm went off at 6am, I departed from my warm bed and took a shower. Thank God for hot water. 

     Classes were good. I had orientation classes today, which means I have specialized subjects based on my major. In Cs. Política we were taught about Popular vs. Neopopulation. Unfortunately, I had just studied that a few weeks ago in Sociology. Language & Literature was next. Then Math III. I got worried when I saw the students pull out their calculators. I've only done Algebra I&II and a little Geometry. (My minor, Marketing, calls for College Algebra, so I've been concentrating on that.) But when the professor started drawing on the board I calmed down. How to find the circumference of a circle. Seriously?! Kevin (who was an international student to SVA last year) leaned over and told me that the math here is ridiculously easy. Perfect. I zoned out for most of class. Towards the end, Kevin and I looked over his piano music in his backpack. 

     After lunch, I did some Algebra in the library, then headed to our Spanish class. It was us 5 students and the older 3 Rivera kids. Our teaching is the Literature teacher. She used to be the Spanish teacher in Buenos Aires; she would teach international college students. Unfortunately, we only learned about different objects, such as picaporte (doorknob), ropero (dresser), servilleta (napkin), etc... Hopefully on Thursday (we have Spanish class on Tuesday and Thursday) we'll learn difficult sentences. I feel bad for Sarah, Julia and Reiss. Sarah has taken 3 years of Spanish, and Reiss & Julia grew up speaking Spanish at home. But for the rest of us, it's pretty good. 

     Right after class, we had PE. Supposedly it was gymnastics, but all we did were exercises. Hopefully Thursday will yield better results. The rest of the day was uneventful, until after vespers. Then Sarah and I hung out down the hall with a group of girls we've become friends with. They made grilled cheese in a panni maker, and hung out and listened to movies. Some of the girls were checking out pictures on my phone and the found the movie Thor that I had on there. Fangirling is universal. Or at least Chris Hemsworth is adored by girls everywhere. We all had fun. Plenty of group selfies were taken. Times like that are what make me begin to feel included in the ISAM community.

•• pictures ••

     Okay, I am so wicked sorry for not posting pictures more often. I´ve been trying to post pictures for 3 days, but the wifi has been acting up. Even as I type, I´m attempting to download pictures to this library computer so I can upload them to here. Ugggg. 

     ...anddddd, it´s not working. Okay. So plan B. Check out my Instagram (click the word "Instagram"). Yeah, the picture just started to download but it said 23 minutes remaining. Uh, no. No, thank you. Sorry! 

Day 7 •• June 2

     I'm sick. So is Sarah. Yesterday, we both had a headache and sore throat, but today was worst. I'm terribly congested and Sarah can't get warm. 

     This morning, the temperature dipped down to around 38°. Today was also our first day of classes. I'm in the senior class (5th) and the others are in 4th. The grading system is different. 1-7 is elementary school. For secondary school the grades are 1st (8th grade) through 5th. The average age of my classmates is 17. Based on your major, some of your classes are specialized. Since I'm a Communications major, I have economics, sociology, and law classes aside from the mandatory history, literature, and mathematic classes, to name a few. Class starts at 7am, and go till 12:30 with a total of 8 classes a day.

     Today, I began with three Inglés classes. But instead of translating from Spanish to English, I reversed the process and now have learned the Spanish names of different professions. Next, were two Filosofía classes. As that went totally over my head, I spent the time transferring my schedules to a spreadsheet on my phone. Then we had a Bible class. Our teacher is also the Master Guide leader. Thankful, he speaks slower and pronounces his words, so I was able to understand at least half of the class. Then came Literature. By this time, a dozen of us had been in the same room with only two, 5 minute breaks. People started getting restless. By the end of the second Lit class (two classes back to back, forming one long class) virtually no one was paying attention.

     After lunch, basically all the students went to work. Us exchange students are helping out in the additional English classes. I feel bad for the students; English is so hard to learn! Spanish is so much easier, in most ways. After work, myself, River and Reiss went with Uncle Andy across the road to the university. But before we left, Reiss fell in love with one of the stray puppies. I warned him not to get attached, but soon the adorable perro had a name, Lion. Anyhow, at the university, Uncle Andy talked briefly with the English class. Surprisingly, not many of the students know English that well. (We were lead to believe they did.) 

     When we got back to the main school, I worked on Algebra in the library for an hour or so. After supper, Sarah and I skipped Vespers and went to bed. We're just too exhausted to do much. Hopefully this viruses ends soon.

Day 6 •• June 1

     After my sub roommate's alarm went off 3 times (6, 6:15, 6:30) we both got up at 7am. Breakfast was somewhat normal, with cereal and fruit. 

     When I was down at the music building, I saw kids wearing Pathfinder scarfs all heading towards the library. I went over to watch. They formed up in front of the flag poles in a square. Then the AY and Conquistador flags were raised. Then they all (50+ kids!) sang the Pathfinder song. Then after a short worship and prayer, they broke into groups to work on different activities. 

     I went back to the music building, connected with home, posted pictures and blog updates, then Skyped. Then Nicko decided to kill the wifi by downloading junk. So I took a nap until lunch. At lunch, Sarah and I sat with 4 boys who were learning English. We decided that they could only speak English to us, and we could only speak Spanish to them. That worked out pretty well. 

     After lunch, us exchange students were made to join the older Pathfinders (a Master Guide class) as they hiked into the forest to practice building fires. That was fun, but kinda easy, as all you had to do was simply light the tinder. After everyone finished, our leader (who is the Bible teacher) told us about an expedition that's happening the end of the month. It's basically a 20 mile bushwhacking trip through the rainforest. 

     Anyhow, when we got back it was almost time for supper. The food here is good. After supper we had vespers in the dorms. I went to bed quite soon after.

Day 5 •• May 31

     Ah, today was muy bueno. It was Sabbath, which means we can sleep in until 7:50, as breakfast is at 8am. After breakfast, we had about 45 minutes to get ready for Sabbath School and Church. SS was okay. The class I went to with Sarah and her roommates was taught by Carolina, who's from Texas and is perfecting her Spanish here for her senior year. Church was kinda boring, as I couldn't understand much. During the song service I recognized some of the hymns sung. So I either sang in English, or attempted to sing in Spanish by reading the words from the projector. Lunch was quite good, but Nicko (who's from NY and in 8th grade) said that it's only good on Sabbath; we'll see. 

     In the afternoon, we're allowed to chill. My substitute roommate (my original two went home for the weekend) took a nap, so I hung out with Sarah, River and Nicko in front of the music building, as that's where the wifi is. At 3:30 there was a movie for the seniors, but it was the Ben Carson movie ... and I'm not meant to be anything medical. So I just hung around until 5, when AY started. With help from Nicko (who is so happy to have other Americans here) I was able to understand 30% of the meeting. Supper was pizza. Yay! While we were eating my sub roommate (Martina) decided that she'd help me learn by writing down words in Spanish and translating them to English. Maybe there IS a chance that I'll learn Spanish! 

     After supper most everyone when up to the parque, which is their huge enclosed gym-like building. I played volleyball with the students for over an hour. Well, it wasn't volleyball, we just stood in a circle and passed the ball to each other. But I improved in that time. I'm looking forward to playing again. But right now (9:30pm) I'm tired. Our group is still exhausted from traveling. Buenos noches!

Day 4 •• Pictures

Day 4 •• May 30

9:15am. 

I'm in a car heading to ISAM! The bus ride was good. We all awoke 'round 4:30am and talked for about an hour. Breakfast was served at 8:15. We arrived at the bus station at 9.

5:30pm 

I'm sitting in my dorm room as I type. Unfortunately, no wifi. My roommates are Lucia and Pauline. They're quite nice. Thankfully, Sarah is right down the hall. It's been hard attempting to communicate. I can't wait for our Spanish lessons to start. After lunch (hispanic version of cafeteria food) Sarah and I went to the Music Building to jam with Kevin, a international student to SVA .... and it just started pouring. And thundering. Delightful. Anyhow, we hung out there for a while. The others joined us later. Got the wifi password, and was able to Skype home. Took a shower a few minutes ago and now I'm waiting until supper, which is at 6:30.

10:00 

At vespers we were made to introduce ourselves and answer questions. Someone asked Sarah and I if we had boyfriends. Awkward. But it got worse. We were then made to stand out in the foyer and greet everyone ... in the traditional Argentinian greetings. Which means a kiss on either cheek. Guys and girls. Delightful.

Day 3 •• Pictures

Day 3 •• May 29

9am 

So, we girls were supposed to be up by 7am so we could be downstairs with our bags by 8. However, my alarm didn't go off (new watch) so we girls awoke to Sofia crying. I checked my watch and it was 7:51am. Oh gosh. Ran around the room packing up and washing up. Got downstairs to find that the bus was late. Delightful.

8:45pm 

On the sleeper bus heading to ISAM. Today was good. Went to the Catholic school and visited with the 16 year old class. They practiced their English and we practiced our Spanish. Ate breakfast there, too. Afterwards, we toured Buenos Aires until 7pm. Bought souvenirs, lunch and last minutes stuff. Returned to the hotel, loaded our bags onto a bus which took us to the station for the sleeper buses. After waiting for 15 minutes, we loaded the bus. It's quite nice!

10:30 

Dinner was surprisingly good. Much better than airplane meals. But I'm falling asleep as I type. Night!

Day 2 •• Pictures

Day 2 •• May 28

(Time is in GMT)

2:48am 

We're on our last flight. In Lima, Peru we had our first "real" security check. Now we're an hour or so away from Buenos Aires. Hopefully the hotel will let us check in. If not, then we're going to have quite an interesting night / day.

4:30 

Touched down in Buenos Aries. From the plane you can see lights everywhere! If all goes well, we'll collect our luggage and check into our hotel. However, I have a feeling it might not be that simple.

6:00

I was correct. Right now we're chilling around our luggage as Uncle Andy tries to figure out a way to get us to our hotel. Somehow, the transportation that ISAM arranged for us didn't work out. Thankfully, there's pretty good wifi, so we're able to contact home.

9:00 

We're at the hotel. Finally. But we can't go to our rooms. So we've been chilling / sleeping in the lobby while we wait.

1pm 

Bought breakfast and toured Buenos Aires for a few hours while we waited for our rooms to be ready. I'm exhausted. I feel like a zombie ... and probably look like one.

2:00 

We're in our rooms, finally. Sarah and I are getting ready to go out with Uncle Andy to buy lunch.

11pm 

Grabbed lunch at Panda Express ... but something didn't agree with my stomach. :/ Took a 3 hour nap, then went out night shopping. Compared prices, ran around the mall, got lost in an empty art gallery with Sarah and River, and ended up running down an up escalator. Between Sarah and I, we found that we could successfully order Subway and Burger King food in Spanish!

Day 1 •• Pictures