I walked to school the couple blocks with Maria Gloria. Upon entering, I began introductions with every faculty in sight. Maria Gloria proceeded to clock in the old fashion way: with a punch card and clock. Beyond that was the office where I spent much of the morning waiting for Sayuri and Narciso to make the trip to Talca. It was a pleasure speaking with Janet, the secretary though. She served me tea and cookies while I waited. Seems like she and everyone else are concerned about obesity here in Chile. She didn't seem to think much of American obesity though which surprised me. Narciso also took some time to show me around the school and while doing so, he explained the earthquake evacuation drill. We practiced it somewhat too. "Walk! Speed! Walk... speed!" he said ... read more

Absolutely amazing! After a week and a half of orientation over which all 50 of us travel bugs became closer than we could have ever imagined, everyone parted ways. I left the hostel with several others- that is Cody, Valeria, Kirby, Justine - around 12:30 today and then took the bus to Talca. Coming into town we could see earthquake destruction and a bit of a rundown appearance. The area has greenery but it's also a bit dusty too. It wasn't quite like driving to Bishops. I exited the bus and soon after I received a greeting, "Emelia?" and Maria Gloria was the first one to find me. Warm and friendly, it was a great first encounter. The Spanish came pretty freely between us, and I was very surprised. Soon after, I met Francisca, my "sister." ... read more