This past Thursday marked four months that I have been living in Guatemala. It's amazing how time flies...but also how easy the money does as well! That's why many people here (as I'm sure many of you do as well) participate in membership shopping such as Costco, Sam's Club, etc. Well I've been going to our equivalent of those American stores known as Pricesmart once a month since I've been here. It has always been a hassle though because I am always needing to time it with someone else and make a day of it. This Thursday though that all changed with the acquisition of my very own Pricesmart card. Now some of you may be wondering "Why does this matter at all?" Let me explain: with the simple act of purchasing a membership card here I really feel as though in a small way I'm putting roots down here. I'm investing in the country, in the way of life. I'm not simply trying to "survive" anymore but really learning how to "live" here. It's a funny thing how much a little card with your face and name on it can mean. Take it as you may but after only four months it's amazing the familiarity I feel with this country.
When you and I have a birthday, a few people remember and maybe some even call. When the Marine Core has a birthday, everyone knows about it! November 7th was the celebration of it's 234th year being established and let me tell you, your tax dollars were never harder at work. The US Embassy spared no expense in throwing the biggest and loudest ball that Guatemala will have all year. And here's the best part: I was able to surprise Rachel with a ticket to come and join me for it. It was an incredible night. The ceremony was one of tradition and honor and it was a privilege to witness the history of the marines and the testimony from marines current and past. After the ceremony came the dancing and it was a blast. I felt truly blessed that Rachel could come and visit and look forward to Christmas when I'm able to see the rest of my family.
Being in Guatemala and working at CAG is an interesting combination. There have been many times where I get so encapsulated with work I seem to forget that I'm actually in a third world country. That is why when days like Dia de los Muertos comes around, it really makes me appreciate and understand where I am. November 1st was Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and there is a traditional kite-flying fair that takes place in a few different places. A few other teachers and myself went up to Sumpango and witnessed the great hand-made kites there. The message of the kites was quite interesting themselves. Many spoke about the drought that Guatemala has had this year, man's destructive impact on nature and the loss of their Mayan heritage. Needless to say, riding in the back of a pick up truck on the highway to go to a festival celebrated mostly by Guatemalans is a scene I won't soon forget.
