Yesterday I went to a random birthday party of one of the Mexican students at La Universidad de la Comunicación with Emnet and Drew at Wings Factory (very Mexican, I know). I was a little skeptical at first because it usually takes me a while to warm up to Mexican students that are my age, but I was so glad I went once we got there. We basically just sat and talked to complete strangers for 2 hours, telling jokes and teaching each other slang phrases in the others' language. The Mexicans taught us some piropos and corny jokes, and we taught them some jokes of our own as well. Though I was quiet at first and glad to let Drew take over the conversation, I eventually loosened up and really enjoyed being able to speak Spanish with hispanohablantes. There really is no better way to learn. I also made a few new facebook friends, jaja. :)
Today in class the LBATers had a debate about the legalization of marijuana. The discussion quickly became very heated, making for a very entertaining argument to witness from the peanut gallery. It always amazes me to see how well English speakers can pull out their Spanish when put in this sort of situation. After the debate ended, Doctora let everyone out SUPER early to have a leisurely lunch before going to Grupo Modelo, the beer brewery (that also manufactures Corona). Since we had so much time to spare, a group of us shared two pizzas gigantescas and then had ice cream in a park near the metro station. We really appreciated being able to take our time and not feel rushed for once.
Upon arriving at Grupo Modelo (after an hour in transport), we were unfortunately informed that we (meaning las chicas) were improperly dressed and therefore were not allowed to enter la cervecería. It was quite a bummer since we could have used our time much differently had we known this would happen; but to make up for our disappointment, Roxanne, Rebecca, Summer, Kristina, and I decided to go to Mercado Insurgentes to do some shopping. Though the jewelry at this market was strikingly beautiful, it was a little too pricey for our taste. It was still nice to browse though and see a different part of the city. I'm pretty sure you could live here for 10 years and still not see everything...
Tomorrow we're leaving (after debate #2) for Sontecomapan - one of the coolest places I have ever been. It's a secluded (and I don't mean that lightly) island about 9 hours away from D.F. The ranch where we're staying dedicates itself to permaculture, which is actually a lot more interesting than it sounds: the development of agricultural ecosystems intended to be self-sustainable. While there we'll enjoy relaxation at its finest with a private beach, hammocks, yoga, a natural sauna, etc. I'm dying of excitement... so I guess I'll just have to elaborate more later!
"If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them." - John 13:17
