phone call

"Hi! Did he arrive in one piece?"
"Hi! He did! Did he speak Spanish? or refused to do so?"
"He spoke Spanish and he was very good at it! So surprising!"
"I'm so glad, because he didn't want to"
"I know, I know, but you should stop worrying, he has to find his own way of communicating"
"Oh, yes, I know that, but I'd like to be a fly when he has no other choice but to speak Spanish, just to listen to him"

And our conversation continued on other interesting matters. But can you believe that we were talking about her husband? Oh, well, sometimes men act like children, right?

music

"Surprise!" "This is for you, I hope you'll enjoy it"
"Oh, great, thanks!" "I'll listen to it tonight"

And I did, it was a compilation of lovely soundtracks of old movies. And when I mean old, I mean at least thirty years ago, or so...

Last Summer I had to think of a present for an old friend, a teacher, and all I had to do was to copy my cd. Who could resist that music?

Today I turned the speakers volume up just to relax while I'm working and rediscovered the cd.

Kind thanks to my sister who gave me such wonderful present some years ago.

algo lindo

ahhhhhhhhhh, acá viene la babosa marchando...

les dije que las mariposas son un gran tema en la familia?

(lo que más me gustan son las antenas firuleteadas, le dan cierto aire romántico)

médicos

cosas que pasan cuando vas a la consulta del médico:

1) que te ausculte cuando acabás de subir 2 pisos por escalera
2) que te atienda una hora más tarde, y que claro, no te pida disculpas
3) que no te atienda si el que llega tarde sos vos
4) que te mande una serie de estudios que en realidad no necesitás, pero por las dudas
5) que te mande un estudio en el que tenés que recolectar durante 24 número 1
6) que te mande remedio para la presión, y como si fuera poco, te los mande a la mañana y a la noche, algo más deprimente que eso?
7) que encima te diga pero si estás fantástica!
8) que te pida que vuelvas en mes y medio para hacer otros controles, no alcanzó con esta visita?
9) que te diga "nada de gimnasio" cuando vos te pusiste todas las pilas para esas clases con nombres rarísimos (como pole dancing!) en el gym más cercano en donde dejaste todos tus ahorros por 365 días!
10) que insista con el tema de las vacunas que hay que ponerse para cuando llegue el momento (far far far away) de querer "embarazo", como si hablara del gusto del helado, haceme reír!
11) hay que volver realmente?!

dog stories

Some time ago a friend of mine had to prepare her house for a party. So, she called her mother to help her with the meal, being her mum a kind of caterer, it was the right person to call. She took care of the matter in no time at all, and cooked for everybody.

Taking into account the amount of time they needed to lay the tables in a very elaborate way, the mother decided that the dishes, meals already served in the plates, should arrive no more than three hours prior to the event. She used her SUV and asked my friend's brother to drive while she took notes of what she had to pick in the way to my friend's home. Up to that moment, everything seemed to be going smoothly...

They reached my friend's house, she opened the door to help the family to take the plates to the kitchen, and while ones were coming and going with the plates, others were in charge of opening the bottles, and so on... In the meantime, the family dog decided he wanted to take a bite and see how humans food tasted like. Let me tell you that it was an important event, with ambassadors, waiters, cocktails, unpronounceable wine labels, and so on, which meant everybody was very busy to even realize that the dog was actually eating the meals prepared for the guests...

Well, I really don't know how they managed, how the dog survived for having eaten like 50 people... the moral of the story is that I'd never leave my dog unwatched. She'd not only eat meals, but also help herself to dessert, drink some wine just in case, and even thank me for the excellent moment!

pets material entry

I've got some new pets material, but I need to focus on my work today, so my next entry will be about my friend's pets.
It's incredible to see that some people are crazier than this blogger about pets.
*sigh and smile*

family matters

Taking a look at my pictures, I found myself thinking about family matters, about the idea of a flock, deciding all toghether what to do next, where to go, how to face problems, how to solve them.

I think I'll pay more attention in the future to how animals behave, I might learn something useful, quack-quack.

question

Did I mention, by any chance, that it will rain the next three days? Which means I'll work from home, read, read, read, rent some movies, have some popcorn, rearrange my clothes, cook something nice to share, watch some tv, study, phone my friends, and do nothing else but relax?

What do you do in rainy days?

daggers look softened

So I told you that last weekend's bbq has been postponed. What I didn't mention was that, in fact, we all gathered for a ravioli meal.

I took the food, they brought the dessert. And the triplets, and the baby.

I couldn't be less and I took my dog with me (in fact my dog was ill and I had to take her to watch over her).

When they arrived, it was time to open the gifts. The kids were surprised to receive a wood pencil each. And they liked it. Besides there was chocolate and berries jam, a combination children can't resist.

Then, she opened her little present (ok, I had to fix the original torn package). It was a candle I brought from the South for myself, but well, I had to decide whether to find one similar, or to lose a little to gain a little. Anyway, she said she liked it and that she'd put it on her bedside table.

At that moment I tried not to smile at my mum. I thought "I told you", but what I was really really thinking was that the candle had been bought in a shop called the "black sheep". Now I understand the meaning...

What would happen if I'd ask her to light the candle whenever an exam is around the corner? Can you imagine her face?!

cats and dogs, reloaded

Bearing in mind:
1) the heavy rain
2) the fact that subway services were interrupted (and I was in the subway when it happened)
3) the bus was packed (and I had to take it)
4) I had to come back home and meet a friend half way (impossible! I had to walk twenty blocks just to find her, I was even videotaped while walking, so hey! I was supposedly in the 12 AM news! The one with the green Benetton umbrella?!)
5) Buenos Aires was flooded and some cars were swept away by the current (not mine TG!)
6) My friend got stuck in the mud, well, actually, not mud, but in the traffic chaos (almost the same)
7) My dog was still at the walker's place waiting to be fetched! (which my friend did for me)

It was almost a miracle to get home a few hours later (I did get home, but some people didn't have the same possibility, they had to wait until the water level fell), not even remotedly wet, to have dinner with my friend and stay chatting.
Good things happen even in complicated days, at least that was my case

cats and dogs

It poured yesterday, and it was a complicated day.

(to be continued)

interpretation

Call me a fan, or even a perfectionist, but two years ago when attending Robbie Williams press conference, I couldn't believe that the translator/ interpreter was so bad.

I was taking down notes for a newspaper, and my role was just to listen to his words being translated. But after several mistakes she made, I stopped writing and stared down at her. I mean, you can make a tiny little mistake, but several in a matter of an hour?

Robbie was getting impatient, though he didn't understand a word of what she had translated into Spanish. And the fact that she'd been hired to interpret several tv shows interviews, made me mad. I mean, most probably she was nervous, I got that, but in several shows? Even my sister pointed out all the mistakes she listened to after watching some tv interviews!

Today I found the press conference recording, and believe me, I'll listen to that again soon, just to laugh about the whole thing. I should advise the record company to hire more than a bilingual person when international singers come to visit in the future.

disclaimer

I was thinking that I should add a disclaimer just in case...

Or I should say, at least, that you're reading fiction mixed with real facts, or viceversa.

I found a disclaimer in Spanish for those who follow my Spanish entries: ADVERTENCIA:TODOS LOS PERSONAJES Y ASUNTOS RELATADOS EN ESTE BLOG, INCLUSO LOS QUE ESTÁN BASADOS EN PERSONAS Y HECHOS REALES, SON FICTICIOS.

differences

from cloudy to foggy in a matter of hours

(can you see the red building?)

It was really strange to wake up this morning. When rolling up the shades, I couldn't believe my eyes, it was London in Buenos Aires! (bearing in mind the differences). I turned the radio on to listen to the morning news, and of course there have been several crashes in the last few hours.

Now I can officially say that Autumn has landed in Buenos Aires. And yesterday's bbq has been postponed due to weather conditions...

pretending

In taking my souvenirs to my relatives and friends, I remembered that I didn't buy anything for those not so kind with me during the past months.

Now I'm worried, as a bbq (not asado again!) has been scheduled for next Sunday, and I cannot free myself from the fact that everybody will be opening their souvenirs (and eating chocolate), except for those who'll be watching the others. Is it too bad to go and get some candles, wrap them up, and pretend I bought them down in the South?

It's not guilt what drives me, but the fact they'll look daggers at me, and believe me, I don't like those looks. May be, and just may be, candles can save my back.

bowls and roses

When he opened the door, still carrying my luggage, I saw a nice decorated place. It was strange, if you think of a man living in a new country for a short period.

Then, I saw them, some floating candles in a bowl of water. And I thought, that couldn't be him. He wasn't the person I used to know. He took care of details, he was charming and thoughtful, but floating candles? Very suspicious.

The second thing I discovered was a potpourry bowl... man, he had changed, and I couldn't distinguish between the old nice guy and the new guy. I was more than surprised. You can imagine my face when he told me he had made some space in the wardrobe for my clothes and emptied a drawer for my belongings. Who could resist a man like that?

The third thing I couldn't believe were the plants he had placed in the living room, looking great, that he never forgot to water while I was there. I must admit now that I felt those butterflies I've talked about some time ago here. They were persistent, like an illness you need to get rid of, even if I tried to think that I wasn't in a bed of roses.

Some time later I discovered, and I still don't know whether I was happy at that moment or not, that he was a romantic person. Not that I don't like romantic men in my life, though I've to admit I'm more practical than romantic these days. The fact that we were no longer together made feel in an awkward situation, as if not belonging there, that I was taking a look at somebody meant to be with someone else. And I felt it wasn't fair, it wasn't fair at all.

spanglish

While in San Martín de los Andes, I discovered a few signs translated into English that I found appalling, as I can't think of any other word to discribe them.

Be my guests and take a look...

And I thought I had problems...

angle

When taking photographs, I think of having the right light and angle to produce a nice picture. I don't want to miss any detail of those great moments.

This is one of those moments, but, hey, I'm sorry if this isn't my best shot.

long list

Wow, it's difficult to believe I spent so much money in so many souvenirs, but it's just a part of what I brought. I should have brought a basket for my significant ones, I mean, it's easier to put things in a basket than in a paper bag (doomed to tear)!

Yesterday I phoned some of my friends, and all of them invited me to have tea/coffee/ a drink, and it surprised me, everybody said I sounded relaxed and happy. I thought it was good, as I felt like that, but deep down inside I knew it wouldn't last that much.

And I was right: now I'm under a pile of papers to read, other papers to be translated, classes to attend, people to see, birthdays to celebrate, souvenirs to be delivered, plus bags to be unpacked, laundry to be washed, cleaning lady to be warned about delicate sweaters, jacket to be changed/returned (remember this issue?), dog to be taken a bath.

It's not that I distress easily, but things must be taken care of. I think I'm gonna wait ten days to see if I still have this smile on my face...

abracadabra

It's time to unpack, any magician in the audience? any magic wands available, please?

(Easter) Pagan feast

Some years ago I used to take my second-cousin's daughters to the theater in Easter. It seemed it was the best time of the year to share with the girls, as there were many things to do in our four-day break.

For quite some time now I take Easter as some possible time off, and share the moment when I'm back. And it works just fine: bunnies, eggs, chocolate and other things are eaten one week later, when everything is back to normality.

Now, after purchasing many, many souvenirs in San Martin de los Andes for adults and children, I need to reconsider this celebration... may be I should stay at home for this pagan feast and eat the bunny at the right time...

in the lake

Finally I plunged into the lake, and felt the cold water invading my body. My ears started to hurt, and that was the moment when I had to decide whether to have a bad dive (I didn' t think that was possible, following my friends' advice) or to enjoy a day in the lake beach.

I took the second option, it was the right decision to make. I hung my mask, placed my fins in the trunk of the car, and did smile. Sometimes things change, and going with the flow is the best option.

I've been having this ache since I arrived in town, but chose to accept the fact that my ears have their own will, and they never do what I want them to do. I had some drops to ease the pain, plus alcohol mixed with boric acid (what I usually do after scubadiving). Nothing changed.

Anyway, being with good friends who understand how I feel, and being surrounded by a magnificent view made me enjoy every bit of the day.

activities

Being in the South of Argentina is wonderful, there are many interesting things to do: visit different interesting places (mountain, lakes, ponds, etc.), trekking, biking, scubadiving, bird watching, climbing. Which are translated into many different kind of shops that offer all the gadgets for those sports.

One shop I can´t find (or I´m not capable of finding) is a book store. Get your own conclusions, isn´t it a relaxing activity to do while on holls?

Give me a break, I need to read something interesting! (apart from shallow magazines and newspapers). I don´t think that a cheap, second-hand version of Macbeth in Spanish found in the supermarket could count as one.

dear deer

While in the route a deer decided to cross it, stay in the middle and take us a good look.

I found it incredible and these are the pics I took half astonished and very tired (that´s the reason why I forgot to zoom!).

Then when we arrived in town, I discovered that venison is included in almost all the main courses. I still can't believe that this sweet, nice animal is killed to feed humans. I know it's served everywhere around the world, but I still feel it shouldn't.

berries

I keep talking about meals and desserts, but it's the fishy fish that makes me think of better smells. That's why I made some microwave brownies to treat to my mom.

Some years ago I bought a cake through Internet, and sent it to somebody who was celebrating his birthday party a long way from home. I t was really funny because I told him to wait for a surprise without saying what I was sending to him. It turned out well, the cake was there, the package undamaged, and covered by dry ice.

As there were no instructions, he opened the freezer (supposing it was a frrozen cake) and put it there. In fact, it wasn't the case, so when his new friends showed up to sing the happy birthday song, the cake was completely frozen. Still everybody took a bite, and the cake was very good (or at least he told me so).

Now everytime I buy berries, I remember the cake episode. And without fail, I giggle.

fishy fish

Yesterday I cooked fish in the microwave (hello, is there any other way to cook when the weather is still hot?). My mother likes fish a lot, and a marmaid as I am, there's no doubt when I ask her if she'd like to eat fish, she said yes with a big smile on her face. So when I came back home in the afternoon, I prepared the dish.

The only thing I don't enjoy about cooking fish is that the house smells horrible for a week, and I keep washing up everything that was in touch with the fish more than three times in a role. So far, so good.

The other kind of issue is that every time I cook using the microwave I turn up burning myself when taking the dish out of it. And yesterday it wasn't the exception! (grated potatoes were perfect, and I could take the dish without trouble).

Now, I'm rethinking how to cook, not get burnt and still enjoy my home made meals... (strange burnt marks remain in my body for years).

I'm taking this new mark to San Martín de los Andes, may be it would become trendy out there...

the matter of the jacket

I'm angry. I still can't believe how fool I am. Nine days ago I bought a jacket to wear while in the mountains. So, I needed one to be warm in cool weather. That was why I chose that one.

Of course Murphy wasn't taking some time off that day, and there were no jackets left in the colour I chose. Up to here, it was a normal day for me, but then the shop seller told me that he could get the jacket right in time that week. I was surprised, and I mean, surprise for good, as it's quite a regular thing not to get what you want in the time you need it (what's customers' service in Argentina? It doesn't even exist!).

More than a week passed by, and I phoned the supervisor of the shop several times to check that the jacket was going to be there right before my trip. And I was given many excuses, being one of them that there was an inventory going on in the factory were jackets were received from England, so they couldn't sell any of them or send them to the shops. Anyway, he reassured me that he would have the jacket soon.

Finally, he phoned me yesterday to confirm that the jacket was in the shop, and he could bring it to my house (+1 pt for being nice). Five minutes before the shop closed, I went there and tried the jacket on. It was ok, it was the right one, and I was happy. Deal closed, matter dismissed.

Today I realized while taking the item off the bag that it's not the colour I've been waiting for more than a week (and have paid for, -10 pts!!!) , and it doesn't have a hood (the other reason why I wanted this jacket). Back again to call the guy, he told me in an casual way that he was pretty sure that this was the jacket I wanted! and that this model didn't have a hood!

Suffice to say, now I don't have time to quarrel (well well well he doesn't have the jacket I chose in the premises, how surprising is that?! That's why I waited so long!), I need to pack my things and go in peace, so he made an offer to me: take the jacket I've got to my trip and the minute I come back, I can take it to the shop to change it for the one I wanted from scratch. But he did warn me about trying not to wear it, if possible... (now it's my fault, right?!).

He doesn't have a clue how clumsy (especially with new jackets) I can be when I'm on holls.

Let's see what happens when I use it, and then return it to the shop (Oh I'm certain I will have the jacket I paid for!) ...

tick tock

I think I need to practise how to be patient... counting the days to go out on a scubadiving day is kind of childish, but, well, that's how I feel, and for God's sake, I need some time off!

doll house

Guess what, I've always dreamt of an English style doll house. I knew it existed in Buenos Aires, as some years ago I found a shop where they were made. Today, by chance, I found the shop again!

The little detail, I must say, is that I don't have daugthers or direct nieces, and it seems I'm a bit too old to have a doll house.

a little too late for that, right?! (I wish I were a girl again!).

By the way, I also found a museum in Germany where miniatures are sold!

ready

I'm almost ready to go: fins and mask on the bed, waiting to be packed; emails have been sent to confirm the scubadiver school when we'll be using their services, hotels re-confirmed. Happy as I am, I don't mind any other issues this week, and I'm ok with everybody. I don't care if it's rainy, sunny or cloudy. I care about my dog, who will be left in good hands, and will be missed (well, there are some people that take their dogs to scubadive, but I'm not one of those). I care about my family and Easter time I won't be spending with them, but they understand my need to ... relax underwater... take some time off... come back as a nice girl... chocolates were promised (in fish shape... just kidding!).

In fact, there are many things I want to do while away: take down interesting notes of the places I'll be visiting, see exotic birds, walk walk walk, breathe pure air, be connected to nature, and enjoy my inner time of peace. Am I exceeding my quota of happiness?

in the street

Today I was on my way to the subway station when I saw a sign: "six months to repair this small hole".

My first thought was that even though we're included in such an important list for being one of the cities with more expenditure per capita (or at least something like that), we still have "small" holes in the streets (there was a board holding the sign to prevent people from falling there!). And on sidewalks, and everywhere. Well, it's perfectly fine, we do not deserve a better city, we're in a list and other things don't matter anymore!

My question is: Is there a humble (or with big pockets) Argentine out there in the world who'd like to help his country by raising money for services (that should be provided by the government)/sidewalk repairing issues? It seems we'd need that asap! I promise you I'll take a good snap to show you the proof.

fifteen

According to a newspaper, (the city of) Buenos Aires is ranked 15 in a list as one of the richest cities in the world.

How surprising is that?

I should say it's not that surprising, considering that the survey was prepared by one of the biggest auditing firms... but is that information real? I think may be not...

I mean, it's not that I don't like my city being ranked among the first 15, but it's clearly because some data was taken into account (the purchasing power parity) and some other data was not included...

Basically, it's nice but I don't think it shows the truth (after all, it's the company's truth, but not mine and my neighbour's)...

Murphy, my dearest friend

I'm very tired, and just discovered that I'm a bit cold (Oh well well, finally it got here, before the Autumn begins!). My nose is blocked, the headache is back, and I can't translate even a word (how can I work like this, with my mind completely shut down and in retrieval once every working hour?). So, I took the happy medicine thinking why is it that every time there's a trip around the corner, Mr Murphy and his (stupid but true) laws get in my way. He's really mean, I can't think of another word.

Let's say that: 1. I don't have the energy today to fight this cold-to-be (plus I keep forgeting to close my window during the night, and it's getting colder!) , 2. I need to get everything set for my trip (though there's plenty of time, there are many things to do). 3. I discovered that everytime I need the dog walker to pick up my precious little-four-leg-thing, he vanishes into thick air. 4. Why is it that choosing a jacket for winter weather is difficult (and so expensive?), plus looking for sweaters is so strange while still in summer time!

How do you call all those, if not Murphy's laws conspiring against my universe?

changes

I've made some changes: instead of going

here...

I'm going here for Easter break

(San Martín de los Andes, Neuquén)

(actually, it's more than a break,

it's a ten day-holiday!)...

The second good thing is that I'll be scubadiving as well!

I'm really excited, and also preparing my bags and my fins!

old church

There's an old Anglican church I'd like to visit. It's one block away from where I live, but it's closed every time I pass by. The good news is that I've seen that mass is celebrated on Sunday mornings. I've also seen its gardener (there's a nice garden around).

Some Sundays ago, I entered there, but I felt out of place when I saw all the people praying while I was trying to take some snaps. I retreated myself to the exit door as silently as possible. You can imagine my face, while trying not to make a noise? I mean, it was not the best moment to take pictures.

I did some internet research and found out that the church was established in November, 1896.

By the way, did I tell you there's another old church in the neighbourhood? Well, I think I'll visit it soon...

the previous night

Saturday night was real nice. I stayed home and watched some old movies (I felt dizzy all day long). They were girlie's movies, I should add (unless Possession could be considered for men too). Every now and then I enjoy staying home, preparing a home made meal and watch movies like that. It makes my spirit dream about those times when everything was so different, yet love themes were the same...

Concerning St Patrick's day: I couldn't take a sip of the bier that is in my fridge (smiling at me every time I open the fridge's door). May be I should wait to share it, shouldn't I?

3D

I took the triplets to watch a 3D movie. It was the first time they watched a movie wearing glasses for the picture.

Suffice to say, I commented to them when the movie was about to start that this was their birthday present, as I coudn't be with them that day... do you think the parents will hear those words... coming from those little mouths? I'm looking forward to seeing them soon, to look at the parents' faces... and find myself smiling at them...

Was Patrick a saint?

According to the encyclopedia I read, he was a saint. And today he's remembered because it's his death date.

What about booze? Well, there's no record of how he should be remembered...

It seems that people from Ireland (and later on from all over the world) prefer to remember such a saint drinking bier.

Well, in Argentina it is also celebrated that way (though I'm not a bier girl, I can make an exception today).

More info tomorrow...

candle in the wind

Today was a headache day, or I should say it was a migraine day: I felt as if somebody was punching my brain repeatedly. The very first moment I woke up, I felt it, and there was nothing I could do.

I did what I had to do, but refused to take any medicine. I worked, translated, made phone calls, made appointments. But no aspirins, no pain-free pills, nothing. And I regreted not doing so, because I was feeling worse when coming back home.

One little thing that made my day better (besides the pill for the migraine that I had to take) was an orchid-scented candle I bought. I love candles, especially if they're imported (from The Netherlands!). Oh, yes, they smell so much better!

Tomorrow I'll go buy a few more, and some flowers... ( flowers do go with candles!).

By the way, I'm feeling better, reading very good novels, and some internet material about Rowena's life. Try taking a peek, and you'll be caught by the funny stories! Great material!

cloudy

I feel as if a cloud was over my head. It's a fact that Murphy's law is not on my side. Let me explain: 1. I'm still trying to solve issues concerning internet bills (started in December), 2. I should be on holidays, but clearly I'm not. 3. Visiting a physician for yearly check-up, my blood pressure went up, up, up (not a good thing, considering my family health records). 4. My family is still in shock for my brother's escape and consequently, we're all "on gard" concerning the subject. 5. some other issues that I won't comment now because I'm a bit lazzy to write about...

But brighter things are about to happen, I'm sure (we'll have to wait, won't we?)

bite me, if you can

It wasn't only me that suffered the mosquitos fever: they're all around, and they aren't shy at all. I counted at least 20 at my place. Yesterday I was like crazy trying to kill them with my pillow (I missed them all of course). I can't use a spray to kill them, as my dog could suffer from poisoning.

Tonight I closed all the windows and doors, in the hope of not letting any other one in (twenty are enough for a season).

Did you hear any news about when the Autumn will begin? I hope really soon!

escape from reality

I knew last Friday was going to be a crazy day. It was. My adopted brother ran away from the clinic where he was having a detox treatment. He's nineteen, and he cannot handle his reality.

The result was that he decided he didn't want to continue being there in a nanosecond. And left without telling the others. So, we were informed that he would come to our places, and that we should take him back to finish what he had started.

My sister and I thought we were having a déjà vu, we lived the same situation more than a year ago, when he left a previous treatment. At that moment we knew what to do, and on Friday we were sure it was a matter of time. My father was really pissed off, as my brother was about to have one day off with the family every fifteen days. Now he lost all the benefits for having escaped, he had achieved half of the treatment (it's a 3- year treatment).

I cannot express in words how disappointed we all feel. How helpless we feel. What's wrong with him? Why can't he finish? Life shouldn't be that complicated.

He appeared at 5 AM (we couldn't sleep): he was found drunk in the street and taken to a hospital, we picked him up there, and took him again to the clinic. He said he didn't want to go back. We tried to make him reason he was wrong, but drunk as he was, it didn't matter.

During the weekend we were in open communication with the team that runs the clinic: he was in denial, trying to punch all his mates. Then, he reached the bottom, and cried. Thank God for that.

There's a new beginning ahead.

apples from pears

While sitting on my desk sleepy and hopeless (a nap would be great to recover), I'm thinking of a friend's anecdote.

Her boyfriend was ill in bed, having a stomachache. She was at work. He was with his sister. The girlfriend knows about medicine, as both her parents are doctors. The sister doesn't know how to differentiate apples from pears. The girlfriend told the boyf to have some tea and some pills. The sister is in charge of nursing her brother.

Final act: my friend was angry, as the sister instead of giving a normal tea to the brother, prepared a medicine tea for colds...

late night post

Spanish version here

I can't sleep tonight. I don't know why. I keep my eyes closed for what it seems the eternity to me, but then I turned to look at my alarm clock and see that 15 minutes passed, which means sleeping time is flying away. And I'm certain that tomorrow's gonna be a long, long day, as all Fridays are.

So I get up to do something useful, I sip some cold water, but may be I should try some tea. I sit on my sofa and stare at the stars in the dark blue sky. They seem to be making some sort of wink at me, as they know I can't sleep.

My dog is sound asleep, and my fish are at the bottom of their bowl, resting. Even them are quiet tonight (is there any time when they're not quiet, I wonder).

And I think about posting how stupid I feel at this very moment for having nothing to say, but that today I received some nice coral roses for women's day. Somebody special remembered me, I believe it was a cute thing. My inbox remains unchecked, but won't stay that way if I can't sleep.

Because of today's rain there are mosquitos all around, and having a pillow on my side (and the device for killing them plugged in), I feel I've got enough strength to go back to bed. We shall see if I can have some of those wonderful dreams I've been experiencing this last month (Oh, I won't post about them now)...

Why a Bilingual blog?

There's no other explanation than it's because I like it, and there's not enough time to have both.

So, from now on some translations will be added.

Hope you enjoy reading me in both languages.

the story behind the story in women's day

There was a lady who fought for women's right, and that's why we have our day.

I cannot think of a happy day (celebrated with flowers, chocolate, greetings or cards) when she had to abandon her country because of her potical view. She was a teacher, and as a teacher, she tried to "lecture" about world's peace in a world that was in war.

It seemed she didn't fear Adolf Hitler's growing power when she became a "congress lady" opposing to that regime, but later on she had to leave Germany. Once in Russia, she was in charge of the International Women's Board, a position she held until she died.

Clara, this is my praise to you, and hope I deserve what you've done for me.

mother's dixit

Having tea with my mother can be very interesting and very funny indeed. She will drink tea without even considering quitting in a very hot day. It's impossible to follow her steps, and not only she drinks a cup o tea, but two, or may be three, depending who she's with, and for how long the conversation will last. She also says that tea is refreshing, much more than any other thing.

But today something happened to this routine, it seemed she had her first cup of tea, and with no reason at all, she gulped it down as if she were in a rush. It was not the case, as we were chatting about our so exciting lives.

Then she said she couldn't continue having tea, it was too hot for her and it was a hot day! So the lady changed a bit, after all.

Her words were: no more tea for the rest of the summer in very hot days for me.

I will apply her saying whenever she asks me to put the kettle on...

tierno

redescubrir algunas cosas del pasado puede resultar algo realmente tierno en un día gris como hoy... altamente recomendado para reconfortar el alma y aumentar el buen espíritu. Y ya que estamos, qué lindo es tener lindos recuerdos de historias pasadas!

más y más

por qué siguen apareciendo mariposas (borboletas en portugués, no suena musical y etérea?) por todos lados? y por qué se siguen manifestando no sólo en el exterior sino también en mi interior? Me da curiosidad...

questions from an old auntie

My auntie is seventy five years old. She's old from the outside, but twentish from the inside. She can't walk too much, gets tired soon, and cannot eat what she likes. That's concerning her age and health, but taking into account her mind, I'd say she's quicker than I am, more prepared to do whatever it takes to get what she wants, and does all the things she likes.

So, when she can't sleep, she listens to a radio show that is more like a therapy group. She never misses it, and then she always comes up with new ideas (now I don't wonder where these ideas come from), and has some strange questions to ask.

Some days ago when having tea at my mum's, she asked my sister and I about how would you know if a man would make a great lover. I stared at her, turned my eyes to look at my sister's face, and answered that I had no idea. My sister mumbled something in surprise, something nobody could understand. My mum answered with a new question.

This is the answer she heard from the psychologist of the radio show:

a man would make a great lover if he's a delicate person, and takes into account a woman all the time; when he behaves like a real gentleman. When he doesn't think about himself, when he's a generous man...

Can I ask her to pass on the tips? Some hints, perhaps we might need?

butterflies

I discovered in the last few years that butterflies come and go from wherever they like. I've seen them in the tube, coming from the sea, in green fields, in my flat, while on holidays, in water falls, in the mountains, in the beach.

But there are some other kind of butterflies I sometimes "see": I've seen them playing in my stomach, hand in hand with cold quivering hands, and a strange feeling that something exciting is about to happen. I've been having these butterflies on and off for a while now...

girlfriend by correspondence

About a year ago I was with a friend making real stupid things after drinking (what I should say was too much) wine.
We wanted to do something real stupid, but drunk as we were, we couldn't go out. Instead, she came up with the idea that we should search the internet for our ex-boyfriends, and I agreed, wondering if that was something I dared to do. Search engine on, I sat on a side chair, and she was in control of the mouse. I couldn't manage anything, as the wine was taking over my ideas, and a migraine began to affect me. I didn't even feel interested in the matter, but I was a bit curious.
So, picture after picture, there they were, her exs and mine, all of them looking for dates. The pictures were nice, and their introductions too. It was kind of funny to see how their minds worked, how lonely they must have felt to upload their pics to be seen by unknown girls, hoping to find real love out there. I thought they deserved better than that, all of them, for being such nice guys.
My friend giggled with every word she read aloud. Some months later she admitted having phoned the exes to tell them what she had seen. In my case, I never asked a single word about the subject, as it was not my business. If they wanted to bring the subject up, that was a different thing. No judgement was passed. Being single is about taking all the available options, right? And that's what they did, explore their options.
I still think it was the right decision to take, not to get involved, and I hope they found what they've been looking for. Sometimes I wonder if they found true love out there (hope they did), or if they're still searching.

bad luck once in a red moon

It rained during the afternoon and still is (the morning was so sunny, I couldn't believe it was raining some time later!). A friend called me to crack some jokes about not being able to watch the eclipse. I never ever think of eclipses, in fact, I tend to pay attention to them once they're over. So, I thought it was a terrific idea to remember this one. On time.

There's a saying that explains that some people are born under lucky stars, and some others are not. I'm sure I belong to the second group, as there's always something in my way not to be a lucky girl, let's say, for example: I'm always late when I leave my place two hours before, and with plenty of time to whatever I've got to do, I'm the only one taking a dead-end street when there's no sign explaining that, I'm the only person on earth that says, "hey, I like that guy", and then he's taken by a friend (so-called friend, married with children, impossible that she's interested, now they're together and have a baby, not even waited for her divorce!)... all my life I've been planning holidays to great places which had to be canceled or postponed for some important reasons. It took me years to understand this, and the list may continue for hours, but it's payback time: I'm at home, watching movies while Ricky Martin's show is taking place in River Plate Stadium*, so there's some firework. Is it possible that something is changing for good? Should I take it as a sign?

(Picture taken in Bariloche)

* one of the largest soccer stadiums in Buenos Aires

interesting findings

While I was making a huge effort to concentrate in my study, I thought it was a good time of the day to order the bathroom cabinet (and run away from my books for a while). Saturday mornings were made to order things, actually (the things always delayed for some reason).

Then, I discovered it: there's a men deodorant behind my creams. I wonder how it got there, as I cannot remember this fact. I took the lid off and it really smelt good. I'm the kind of girl who enjoys good smells.

I wonder if it was left behind by somebody... Or was it attached to a magazine, and thought of my dad, my brother, my best friend to give it away? Well, now it can stay a bit longer where it is, it smells good, and it's refreshing to have a men's thing at my place.

Surely I will spray some tonight in my pillow...

women-men Q&A survey in a radio show

Yesterday while taking the freeway, I was trying to find a good radio show to listen to.

Sure I found it when I heard a guy explaining some statistics about what men think of themselves, and how women see them.

First Q: how much time do men think of sex?
Women answered: 60%
Men admitted: 20%

(ok guys, stop lying! too shy to answer the truth?)

Second Q: how much time do men think of their jobs?
Women answered: 30%
Men admitted: 50%

(is it possible that you now prefer working rather than sex?)

Third Q: what is the part of women's body men look at first?
Women answered: breasts
Men said: women's face

(hahahahaha, couldn't stop laughing!)

PS 1: It seems that this survey was taken in different countries, one of them the US. Wonder if the person in charge (a man?) was satisfied with the answers...

PS 2: I laughed because there was a man sitting next to me, and he was trying to understand the A)... All I can say is that he seemed to think quite different...

por dos pesos

Ayer, en plena calle, un anciano con rostro de sabio, me ofrece dos docenas de rosas por dos pesos... como si se hubiera dado cuenta que las necesitaba para alegrarme el día...

Le sonreí, le agradecí y seguí mi camino... y me fui con el aroma a rosas invisibles impregnado en la mente...

uno-dos uno-dos más arriba!

Qué pereza pasar por el pilates show desde la calle mientras las mujeres suben las piernas, sin sus tennis shoes, y tratan de hacer equilibrio (y sin morir en el intento).

A mí la cinta, gym, natación, buceo, la caminata, pero los pilates con vista a la calle (y a los señores que miran asombrados y con cara de perros babosos), jamás! Perspiration is for more private moments, shared with those I choose...

February is gone and Becks is moving

Oh, yes, if it is not enough to have many, many reality shows, now there'll be one about the Beckham family moving to LA.

Do they really need to broadcast this? Don't they have enough money for the many, many, many next generations of Beckhams? I think they should keep their dirty laundry to themselves. It's incredible what they could do for more money and fame.

150

pasar los 150 posts es algo importante, primero porque nunca me imaginé esto, y segundo porque ustedes están del otro lado de la pantalla leyendo lo que escribo!

gracias por estos 150 momentos compartidos, y por muchos por venir...

will you have one for me, please?

There's a robot in Japan that makes tea and washes the dishes.
Can you please ship it to Buenos Aires to help me live a great life?

total eclipse

Next Saturday we'll be able to watch a total and rare lunar eclipse in the South Region.

Hope there will be no clouds, and have the chance to take some snaps to share with you all.

Wonder what the eclipse will bring about...

the case of the broken umbrella and the tsunami in a vase

Well, I should say this is a funny thing. Some days ago I was appreciating my mum's flowers (looking great) in a vase, and then I saw a mosquito in it flying over the small amount of water.

As you may already know, I don't like killing bugs, or even mosquitos, so... what to do in that case? I poured some water in the vase, and most probably it was like a tsunami for the mosquito, the big wave over him...

-----

Today I had some trouble while trying to open my umbrella in the middle of the street while it was raining, so I remembered there was a place to have it fixed (oh, yes, my umbrella was too expensive to throw it away, and it was a present of somebody I care). When I came back home, I took it to the shop, and even though I was still wet, I bought another umbrella on the spot. It seems I can't live without these gadgets...

lloviose

y mojóse todo, pero hacerse el mismo calorcete...
y encima, salióse el solsote de nuevote!

larga vida al mensajero

Sin él algunas cosas se complicarían, como por ejemplo conectarse con amigos que viven en otros lugares, cuestiones de trabajo complicadas de resolver, arreglar salidas o encuentros.

Hoy estoy feliz porque un compañerito de la facultad/universidad me está explicando cosas de estudio, algo que no tiene comparación con nada. Y todo sigue siendo muy virtual y sin salir de casa.

a dónde fue?

Mi pregunta es quizá la más interesante del fin de semana de calor, calor, calor.

Qué pasó con las nubes de hace dos días, que realmente se veían muy amenazantes?

Qué pasó con la tormenta largamente esperada por los porteños? qué pasó que el metereólogo de turno no vio que el viento (si es que estaba presente) se las iba a llevar a otros pagos?

Por favor, una lluvia por aquí, que los vecinos en el ascensor me hacen siempre la misma pregunta, como si yo tuviera la respuesta que ellos esperan...

okay, okay, it's past midnight and I've to admit that it's windy and about to rain. My apologies to the forecast man.

una patadita, por favor

Aunque siga sin poder entender algunas cosas en este mundo, realmente me cuesta entender al matutino que publica una nota sobre alguien que pinta graffittis en NYC vestido como Mr. George W. Bush (h) pidiendo que lo pateen.

Si les parece extraño, vean el link aquí

Otra cosa increíble es que siga la calamidad Gran Hermano 07 y que encima el ganador del primer GH tenga un blog en el que hable del actual. Qué país generoso...

(casi) buenas acciones

Hoy me salió casi todo el día ser buena: mientras iba caminando por la calle vi a una señora apoyada en la parada del colectivo y le pregunté si se sentía mal. Me dijo que le había bajado la presión. Entonces me quedé con ella unos minutos y le convidé un caramelo. Me ofrecí a acompañarla a la confitería más cercana a que se tomara un café, pero no quiso.

Más tarde en el día realicé la llamada habitual a mi mother, me contó que no se sentía bien, y allí fui luego del trabajo. Me quedé con ella hasta más tarde.

Por último, y ahí fue cuando dejé ser la chica bondadosa y caritativa, recibí un llamado para cobrarme la factura de teléfono de noviembre, que está paga desde entonces... y como no podía ser de otra forma, la persona que me llamó no recibió el mejor de los tratos (ya que este tema lo comenzaron en diciembre y desde entonces me lo paso reclamando yo!!!). Aunque usted no lo crea, Telef.. de este país sigue siendo una empresa de ineptos...

el efecto lechuga

Si creían que era un chiste, sepan que no. Que un matutino ayer le dedicó un gráfico rosadito a la suba de precio de la lechuga en la sección finanzas (lástima que en el link no se pueda ver!).


No es por desmerecer a la pobre lechuguita, que es parte de mi dieta de verduras, sino que me llamó la atención el gráfico dedicado al tema. Será que el matutino no tenía otro tema tan interesante como este sobre el que reflexionar?

no parlo italiano

Cuando era chica, iba a idiomas. Inglés, francés en el colegio, portugués en la academia, mientras en mi familia además estudiaban italiano. A mí me sonaba feo, desdibujado, hasta un poco maleducado.

De grande me arrepentí de no haber seguido los ejemplos familiares: hoy las pelis italianas en general me gustan, y las canciones me matan. Hay una que vi hace un largo tiempo que me gustó mucho que se trataba de diferentes parejas y de un beso, pero imposible recordar el nombre... pero creo que no hay ninguna que supere a la vida es bella...

the case of the watch(es)

My watch decided to stop working about fifteen days ago without any warning (it also coincided with my other watch losing its crystal somewhere I couldn't find). So, I decided it was time to have both repaired.

It never occurred to me that it was so difficult to find a good place to have those fixes done. But then I found a place where a very old man with thick eyeglasses was ready to put his hands on my watches.

Some days passed by, and I forgot about the matter. In fact, I remembered this subject ten days later. And called the grandpa to ask if I could pick up my watches. After a while the man understood who I was and told me that my watches weren't working plus it was going to take him about five more days ... ok, I thought, I'm in no hurry. Take your time.

Five days later my calendar beeped and made me remember I had to go for my belongings. Off I went for them... Then again the man greeted at me with a big smile, and told me that I should take my watches and come back in March... It seems he never fixed them, and in March he'll have more time to do whatever he has to do to make them tic tac again...

cuestiones ambientales

Mientras ayer muchos se reunían en frente a una embajada en Buenos Aires para profesar su disconformidad sobre la caza de ballenas, hoy leo en uno de los matutinos que nevó en Bariloche en pleno febrero. Cosas increíbles, si las hay.

Hace unos días se reunieron miembros ambientalistas de todo el mundo a hablar del cambio climático, pero lo que yo me pregunto es qué hace cada uno de nosotros por el tema? Por ejemplo, utilizamos menos bolsas plásticas cuando vamos al super? reciclamos el papel que usamos? apagamos la hornalla si no la estamos utilizando? Hay muchas cosas que cada uno puede hacer desde su lugar en el mundo...

amanecer de un día agitado

Mi perra come pasto. Le encanta. Se siente una vaca y no deja de saborearlo. Y yo, como buena dueña que soy, a veces la dejo comer lo que le gusta. Pero luego me acuerdo de las noches que tengo en mi haber de no dormir gracias al pasto y a la perra.

Y anoche fue una de ellas, así que, mis queridos lectores, sepan disculpar que no tengo mucho que decir en este día de San Valentín: me lo pasé cuidando a mi perra, que estaba hecha una oveja ovillada a mis pies y gimiendo de dolor. No hubo remedio que la calmara y una vez por hora me despertaba.

Conclusión, a la hora de que sonora el despertador, yo ya estaba hecha una piltrafa, despierta y preocupada porque la bendita cuatro patuzcas comiera el remedio y no lo escupiera (sí, he comprobado que los perros saben escupir los remedios).

Vamos a ver qué me depara esta noche, además de una noche de muuucho sueño...

enamorándonos en san valentín

Por qué no enamorarse hoy, con tanto hombre en la calle con flores?

monumento para un profesor

Luis Alberto es un profesor que acaba de cumplir ochenta años y sigue dando clases. Tiene un espíritu joven y una mente ágil, además de artrosis en sus rodillas. Y es una de esas personas que nos gustaría tener como ejemplo de vida, charlar con él hasta quedarme dormida. Porque es un sabio, porque es sencillo a pesar de todo lo que hace, sabe y conoce.

El primer contacto que tuve con él fue a través de un libro que escribió sobre la lengua española y sus excepciones. Muchos años más tarde lo conocí personalmente y pude juntar sus palabras con su rostro, de intensísimos ojos azules. Estas son cosas que pasan rara vez en la vida. Y ahora lo adoro como protegida.

Ojalá hubiera muchos más Luis Albertos en esta vida, seguramente el mundo sería algo distinto si se cumpliera mi deseo.

sorpresas sorprendentes

ese día que no tenías ganas ni de asomarte al balcón, te sorprendiste al encontrar:

1) plata (y evitar la salida al atm más cercano) en el bolsillo de atrás de ese pantalón que no usás nunca
2) tu postre (dentro de la dieta del día) que no recordabas escondido en el fondo de la alacena. Qué ricos que son los cereales.
3) un mail inesperado sonriéndote chispeante desde tu casilla de entrada. Una delicia que alegra el alma.
4) haber grabado ese programa que tanto te gusta y nunca podés ver, acordarte un mes más tarde y aprovechar un día lluvioso para ponerte al día.
5) entradas gratis al cine que te mandaron de regalo, y que justo estén dando esa peli que no tuviste tiempo de ir a ver.
6) que esa remerita que tanto te gustaba esté en liquidación cuando volvés de las vacaciones, y que tengan del color y talle que querías
7) encontrar el libro que querías releer en el primer estante de la biblioteca
8) ir al super y encontrarte con amigos que hace años que no ves, y hacer un resumen de tu vida (sólo de las cosas buenas) en diez nanosegundos
9) prender la compu y que te salude esa persona que tanto querés y que tenga tiempo para una charla cibernética
10) que se nuble justo cuando salías de tu casa en un día de calor agobiante
11) que el subte tarde menos de lo que esperabas y justo viajes sentada, con el mp3 y con el ventilador sobre la cabeza
12) que todo lo anterior te haya pasado en una misma semana.
C'est la vie

no hacen falta palabras

Sólo una imagen.

volviste? volvimos?

Parece que casi todo el mundo está volviendo de sus vacaciones (aunque varias mentes además de la mía se quedaron en la arena!). El tema es re-encontrarse con los comentarios de los volvientes: qué pasó con tal cosa? qué pasó con tal otra? y como uno volvió hace unos días y la tiene más (?) clara, te dan ganas de darle un curso acelerado de todo lo que se perdió.

Ahora, hacer eso sería de mala gente, o no? Entonces no hay persona más feliz que aquel que no sabe, que desconoce, que todavía se viste como veraniante y así aparece en la oficina. Y todos lo saludamos volviste!!!! (fue tanto lo que lo extrañamos, o es porque estábamos haciendo su trabajo, y el nuestro?)

opposite sex?

okay, it's not easy to share things with gays, if you don't accept that they're different and they like people of the same sex. I think it's a matter of giving them a chance, instead of joking about the differences between gays and straights.

We're different, and our interest is different. And they make great friends. So, let aside the differences (work them out if necessary), and enjoy life having gay friends. They have a unique point of view and that's something to treasure.

uno de esos momentos...

Hoy estaba recordando uno de los momentos más incómodos de mi vida: cruzarme en un lugar conocido muy cerca de mi casa, a mi ex con su nueva novia. Esto no es algo que sucedió sino hace muchas, pero muchas lunas atrás en mi vida, aunque todavía está en mi top five de momentos desagradables.

Recuerdo no haber sabido cómo actuar, de pensar qué es lo que hago yo acá, de enojarme, de sentirme traicionada (bueno, era la primera vez que lo veía en un nuevo plan de conquista).

Y me acuerdo que en semejante momento de bochorno, confusión, e incomodidad, salí casi corriendo del lugar (peluquería unisex muy conocida a la que asistía frecuentemente, en la que dejé al hair stylist más que confundido, por conocer nuestra historia en común y nuestro posterior break-up).

Qué momento... luego vino la prohibición a coincidir en lugares comunes con nuevas conquistas, para evitar futuros bochornos. Pero ése quedó tan grabado en mi retina que sería imposible olvidarlo... aún hoy me pregunto en qué otros lugares habremos coincidido y con cuantas otras me abré cruzado sin saberlo... el mundo realmente es un pañuelo cuando menos nos interesa...

queridisimas ampollas

Cuando uno estrena zapatos, debería pensar en no caminar mucho con los zapatos recién salidos de la caja. Primero porque son nuevos, segundo, porque el zapato todavía no tiene la impresión del pie guardada en su memoria.

Ahora, si ustedes son tan cabezotas como yo, es probable que no se acuerden de esto, es más, caminen en la búsqueda de un libro agotado (y caminen, y caminen), y que por supuesto, sea un día de calor, y los pies, más que pies se sientan hot dogs a punto de ser comidos.

Es así como se producen las querísimas ampollas en la planta del pie (corrección, en ambos pies).

Algún día me avivaré???

baile de insectos

Si hay algo que no me gusta para nada, es en el momento que con los días de calor aparecen los bichitos en las casas. No me gustan ninguno de ellos, pero en especial me parecen muy feas las polillas gigantes que aparecen de la nada.

Y, anoche, luego de un día de calor relativamente agradable, apareció una de ellas, en mi casa mientras yo leía un libro fabuloso del que no me podía despegar (una historia de amor, por supuesto, pero de lo más extraña).

No soy el tipo de personas que no puedan matar un bicho, aunque me produce mucho asquito, entonces, debo decir, para ser fiel a la verdad, que tengo una manera muy peculiar de matarlos (salvo que pueda hacer que salgan de mi casa, después de todo los bichos por algo deben tener un sentido en nuestra existencia, además de molestarnos): les tiro desodorante de ambiente a aquellos que no me gustan, y almohadones a los mosquitos (para que no me ensucien las manos).

Quizá sea algo gracioso, y cuando lo cuento, todo el mundo suele reírse, pero es cierto. Prefiero no envenenar a un pobre insecto, y mucho menos matarlo con mi zapato. Me encanta que huela lindo para cuando le llegue el momento.

Esta mañana cuando desperté todavía había aroma floral en el aire... y el insecto estaba patas arriba en el piso del baño. Yo diría que fue una muerte perfumada...

barrilete de cemento

ah, sí, sí, para poder criticar Gran Hermano versión undécima y vamos por más, hay que verlo de vez en cuando, o ver las nominaciones al menos, porque es un programa que ve mucha gente(...) , y su famoso chimentista conductor, tiró esa frase y casi me muero (pero de la risa).

Conozco unos cuantos barriletes de cemento al momento de bailar en alguna reunión fiesta, y hay gente que como yo, después de algunas clases (jaja, unas cuantas) de salsa (y no de tomate), somos parte del grupo de los que flameamos y no exactamente en el cielo. De piedra somos, les suena?...

empecemos de cero

Luego de leer algunos blogs de algunas co-terráneas, me dije por qué no? Puedo contar cosas más personales en vez de contar generalidades. Pero esta servidora fiel detrás del teclado tiene sus resistencias a dejar entrar a muchos "Big Brothers" a su hogar, y por ende, a su intimidad.

Puedo contar algunas cosas, que pueden ser interesantes, o no, según el cristal con las que se las mire: ya saben, tengo 33 años cumplidos en enero, no tengo hijos, y por el momento tengo mis serias dudas sobre si los voy a tener, no por no tener el famoso instinto maternal, sino simplemente por carecer de ese que "me partió la cabeza y muero porque sea el padre de mis hijos". Haber, puede haber mucha gente interesada, pero de ahí a que sea...

Alterno entre los barrios de Belgrano y Caballito, aunque en una gran cantidad de años lo mío fue Martínez (volver del trabajo en plena capital para cruzar y pasear por el shopping de esa zona, una verdadera ventaja en mi listado de esa época).

Tengo una hermana más grande, y un hermanito de 18 años que me regaló la vida (preciosos, buena gente, de excelente corazón). Mis padres (también lindos desde adentro), como los de muchos, divorciados hace veinte años (o por ahí), pero paradójicamente celebramos las fiestas todos juntos (y cumpleaños, festejos varios, reuniones familiares, etc.), algo que comencé a entender de grande y luego de tantos años de terapia para poderlo superar... Tengo unos tíos viejitos que también aportan lo suyo al día a día y, definitivamente, hacen que la vida sea mucho más ... interesante?... y algunos familiares más lejanos con sus hijos (de los que hay varios relatos) que son a los que visito de tanto en tanto.

Toda esta gran familia son mi pilar en todo sentido.

Cuento en mi haber tres novios importantes, de los que puedo decir a) que los extraño, b) que alguno lee atentamente lo que cuento en este blog c) que encima dan ideas (excelentes debo reconocer).

Por si esto no alcanzara, tengo a mi perra que me hace muy buena compañía mientras trabajo part-time en casa y full-time en la oficina. Y sus paseadores, son un tema aparte en mi vida. Pero si tener hijos implica estar realizado en la vida, tener perros se acerca un poco a tener hijos que ladren (y que sólo quieran que los mimen).

Mi profesión se relaciona con las palabras en diferentes idiomas, algo a lo que me dedico desde que tengo uso del idioma... hasta a mis muñecas les hablaba en inglés cuando lo que podía entender era lo que decía mi hermana mayor en sus tareas escolares.

En mi mundo que gira y gira sin cesar, hay muchas pero muchas cosas interesantes: amigos en otros países, una mirada aguda sobre algunas cuestiones además de ser ecologista, de contar con una gran imaginación que lleva adelante este lugar en el que esta fiel colaboradora escribe a diario. En mi mundo el caminar sin rumbo en la ciudad, hacer buceo, estudiar otra carrera, salir de viaje o simplemente compartir alguna visión cobra sentido cuando pasa a ser un "te cuento por acá".
Bienvenu à mon monde!

hablemos de sexo

Alessandra Rampolla ya es parte de nuestro folklore nacional, no hay vuelta atrás. Pero pareciera que es la primera sexóloga que escuchamos... aunque mis queridos lectores, tengo que desmentirlo.

El primer sexólogo en dar cátedra en televisión fue al Dr. Kustnezoff (sí, el papá de Andy, reconocido mucho antes que su hijo se hiciera famoso por besuquear a cuanta actriz que hubiera dando vuelta por ahí hace algunos años). Si bien el doc no tenía la... cómo se diría? la soltura? desinhibición? de Alessandra, trataba los temas con mucha seriedad, y sobre todo, como una cuestión científica.

Quizá lo que la diferencie a Alessandra del resto es que su forma de hablar nos hace recordar a una amiga, o por lo menos a alguien de confianza con quien podemos charlar de temas tan interesantes. Eso sí, que nunca ponga cara de truco, no es algo raro? (porque será que los argentinos no decimos nada extraño??? si somos unos bichos raros!!!)

coati engatusado

Cuando estuve en Cataratas de Iguazú, vi algunos coatíes, unos animalitos muy simpáticos que se acercan a la gente muy amigablemente para que los alimenten (y así zafar de tener que ir ellos a buscar su comida).

Me llamó la atención uno de ellos: un bribón en potencia estaba más interesado en una bolsa de una señora con perfumes que en la comida. Claro que era imposible que quisiera perfurmarse en vez de comer. Sin embargo, la señora tuvo que hacerse de todas sus fuerzas para lograr que el coatí soltara prenda! (creo que si no hubiera sido por el helado que se le cayó a una nena, todavía estaría mirando tal espectáculo de la naturaleza tan poco natural)...

orden

Volver de vacaciones y prepararse para todo el año es toda una gran cuestión: primero hay que ordenar todo lo que quedó en la valija, en el bolso de mano y en el nécessaire. Luego, hay que revisar la agenda para no olvidarse de ningún evento a desarrollarse en los próximos días. Ir al trabajo, compartir experiencias con el jefe, fuiste a tal lugar? Sí, bla bla bla. Luego compartir con los compañeros de trabajo. Además a trabajar, leer los varios correos electrónicos que esperan en nuestra casilla. Y a arremangarse para trabajar.

En casa, hacer las compras, el orden general, el lavado (el planchado lo dejamos para cuando viene la señora que nos da una gran mano), ocuparse de las mascotas, y de las plantas, y de esas cosas que siempre dejamos para más tarde... y basta!!!!

Cuando llega el "basta" quiere decir: volver de las vacaciones da mucho trabajo, tengan paciencia que todavía es como si no hubiera vuelto, no tengo el ritmo que todos esperan y no tengo ganas de volver a ese ritmo. Así que, dos cosas: 1) basta de vivir a lo loco, 2) tengan paciencia, que volverá a la normalidad algún día...

caminata

Por la playa, al amanecer, cuando el sol es una bola roja que recién se asoma. Esos son los recuerdos que tengo de hace muchos años atrás.

Hoy, mirar el amanecer? despertarme a las cinco y morir de sueño todo el día? (además, a esa hora la playa está infectada de adolescentes que vueven de bailar, o de otras cuestiones). No way. Prefiero seguir teniendo recuerdos.

Quizá en esta etapa de mi vida, donde el romanticismo sigue estando, pero en otro lugar, prefiero calzarme las zapatillas y salir a caminar, con mi perra, mi fiel seguidora, que todo lo que hago le parece maravillosos y no deja de sentirse feliz y libre al mismo tiempo estando conmigo (y con la soga de siete metros que estira a más no poder).

En estas vacaciones descubrí que se puede sobrevivir a muchas cosas, se puede sobrevivir a un mundo sin elegancia, se puede sobrevivir a ser sólo práctico, se puede sobrevivir a todas las obligaciones. Pero no se puede sobrevivir sin el buen humor, sin el sol brillando sobre uno, sin un día de playa, sin mar, arena, olas que vienen y traen su espuma, olas que van y se llevan el viento. Se puede sobrevivir a muchas cosas.

Cuántos pensamientos con cada paso, parece que las caminatas son pura reflexión, energía y gimnasia para el espíritu...

tunning

No de máquinas, no de computadoras, no de carros (volví hecha una pinturita con la lengua, no?).

Nada de eso, sino de las teenagers en la playa todas producidas como si fueran a bailar directamente: mucha bikini con brillos, collares, aros gigantes, bronceadas a más no poder y con más less que otra cosa.

Antes de irme de vacaciones recordábamos con un amigo con el que coincidíamos en los veraneos hace muchos años atrás, lo que yo usaba en esa época, y evidentemente, las armas de seducción han cambiado bastante:

yo, remera de manga corta no tan adherida al cuerpo, simplemente porque estar bien dotada significa tener espacio suficiente.

ellas, con remeras con agujeros cool, pantalones deshilachados (bueno, los pantalones volvieron, ahora falta el nevado y ya estamos en los '90 de nuevo!)

yo, bermudas no taaan cortas ni mini-shorts.

ellas, bikini abajo y nada más. Mini-shorts alguna que otra, buzo con capucha para el frío y sólo la bikini debajo.

Es verdad que se tunean como nunca, y más de una se agrega "delantera" o "trasera" (imposible que Dios las haya traido al mundo taaan perfectas). Y esto sólo fue un pasar, un mirar en la calle, o cuando coincidíamos en el supermercado, o al bajar a la playa (sandboard super "in" este año!).

Ni me quiero imaginar lo que es ir a los paradores más exclusivos de Pinamar (de los que estuve más que lejos, conté alguna vez que me encantan las vacaciones tranquilas y sin demasiados intrusos que me invadan el espacio???).

Y lamentablemente para mi amigo, no saqué fotos, porque sino hubiera sido entregarle material para que el veranito le durara todo el año... Mejor que siga recordando viejas épocas, no????

bandera celeste

Como ustedes se imaginarán, el mar en nuestras costas es a) de agua fría, b) con mucho oleaje, c) como le escuché decir a una señora, "que revuelca mucho", entonces lo más simple era mirar desde la orilla a los arrojadísimos que se metían a nadar, o a ser revolcados... ninguno de estos mi caso, por supuesto, que sólo me metí el día que hacía calor y el agua estaba pasable, tanto que las aguavivas estaban por doquier...

Lo más interesante fue la bandera de "peligroso", o "dudoso" a diario.

pero el día anterior a volverme, el agua estaba como un lago, sin oleaje, tanto que parecía otro mar, de otro lugar en otra galaxia. No pude evitar sacar la foto correspondiente a la banderita del día. Para que lo crean aquellos que, como yo, no creen estas cosas hasta verlas.

A su vez, tener a Martiniano Molina, famoso cocinero por estos pagos, al lado, a los gritos y pescando (no, no le saqué fotos), fue otra cosa interesante, por como lo miraban todos haciéndose los interesantes (y comentando por lo bajo su presencia).

Pero debo decir que su zunga (poco vista en la playa al ser los hombres un poco tímidos, y diría clásicos a la hora de elegir mallas) ... color naranja, le hubiera llamado bastante la atención a más de una señorita (a mí me dieron ganas de preguntarle sobre algunas de sus recetas, citando a una persona "yo sólo quiero aprender") ...

el mundo de las marsopas

De vuelta de mis vacaciones, aprendí que marsopas y delfines no son la misma clase de animales. Ayer mientras descansaba al sol en la playa el guardavidas (socorrista?), me hizo señas para que mirara al agua (hacerse amiga tiene sus beneficios, especialmente si cuando uno llega no hay nadie más con quien conversar!), y efectivamente varias marsopas se estaban alimentando muy cerca de la costa.

En ese momento no sabía que estos delfines eran marsopas, así que esperé con la paciencia de un beduino mientras la playa me parecía un desierto y yo una árabe a la que le faltaba el camello (perra será lo mismo?), a que hicieran piruetas en el aire. Esperé, y esperé, y esperé, y nada de nada. Ni un saltito (claro que anoche no pude evitar confirmar que las marsopas no hacen piruetas).

Por supuesto tampoco pude sacar fotos de tan preciado momento (porque para los lugareños parece ser algo bastante común, pero para mí es la primera vez que en la costa argentina veo delfines!), ya que sólo fui a caminar a la playa y parecía un poco inconveniente caminar con la perra-inquieta-por conocer-otros-perros-en-la-playa y sacar fotos al mismo tiempo (la otra posibilidad era correr a la perra por más de dos kilómetros sin parar, tarea ardua para el último día de vacaciones).

Conclusión, no hay fotos de las marsopas. Pero sí de una perra intentando ser beduina.