Oh baby, it's COLD outside!

It getting really, really cold here. Last year I arrived in the middle of winter, but I lived in places with central heating so my home was always warm. This year it’s a bit different. With the open roof and the paper-thin walls I’m discovering a new meaning for “chilly.”

November, 2007: pre-Argentina.
These are the people I want to be warm with. Miss you guys!!

Argentina makes me realize just how cushy my American life was. I miss my cozy, warm car. I miss not having to walk 15 blocks in the rain to work. I miss having central heating at home and at work.

This big, cold concrete city is teaching me how to be a little more resilient. There are so many things here that are just not easy the way things were in the states. I’ve learned to budget and live on a pittance of what I used to make in Cali. I’ve learned how to communicate in another language - personally and professionally - and simply refuse to give up even when no one understands me and I look like an idiot! I’ve figured out how to navigate a giant city without a car. I’ve learned to tolerate being pushed and shoved on buses and subways and in stores and in lines. I’ve discovered patience while waiting for 15 hours in a government office. I’ve learned how to be truly alone and appreciate my independence.

That’s just the way it is here. And, well, maybe I’m a little stubborn too. There is a part of me that relishes the daily challenges and feels life is sometimes more valuable when you have to work hard for it.

Other days I just don’t feel so tough. On these days I miss my cozy, warm, cushy little American life. I have to admit at the moment I’d really love to crawl into my car and drive home and curl up in front of the fireplace with the people I love. I suppose I’ll have to content myself with a cup of hot coffee and Skype for now. And when I make it back some day, you better believe I’ll appreciate those little comforts in an entirely new way.