BsAs

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We were lucky enough to be able to spend the month of Feb in BsAs as well as a second month in May-June...the best of their summer and winter. The exchange rate of 3 to 1 allowed us to live as kings and we took full advantage of everything we couldnºt afford in the US---ATP Tennis Tourney (the Argentine equivalent to Wimbledon), the race tracks, one-on-one spanish lessons, 5 course meals with bife de lomo (filet mignon) at least once a day... we took full advantage of the $2 bottles of wine. We want to thank our two fantastic visitors--mom (melody) and joe basta- famous for his feb 2004 calendar debut..may have missed it as it was in the lesser known Leavenworth Firefighter Calendar...local ladies loved him!!! A special thanks to Sofi and friends for showing us some local hospitality.....and for Flavia for letting us share in her fantastic wedding celebration! BEST OF WISHES FROM BOTH OF US!!!
We loved our day at the estancia (ranch 2 hours out in the country) where we were welcomed with wine and empanadas, horseback riding, and a huge parrilla offering all you can eat meat... the gauchos and traditions of kissing the girls after the ring competition..not sure if that was real or fabricated but it worked on emo. With leather goods being a huge trade down here we struggled with what we should bring back as gifts..combining both the expert craftsmanship of the local artisans and the functionality to please all you americans we decided on leather fanny-packs for all!!! Also, í made sure to have them add the optional badge display window for all my firefighter buds...now no need for those station shirts at the beach...youºll love em!!
well, its on to europe and so pass along any recommendations you may have for portugal, spain, italy, etc...

love ya all!!

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Comments

[Melody (mom)]

Love you two
Awwwhhhh....reading this blog and looking at the pics makes me homesick for the little apartment on Charcas Street and the two of you. I will always treasure the time we spent together in Buenos Aires. Loved our walks, talks, shopping, eating and drinking. For any of you that haven't been there.....they aren't exagerating about the beef and red wine.....the best and most affordable you'll ever find. However...There is a real danger associated with this part of the world that they did not mention. I don't know how anyone could spend time there without becoming addicted to "dulce de leche".....and so far I have been unable to find a 12 step program to help me recover....Special thanks for sharing part of your adventure with me! I love you both! mom

[Auntie Lynn]

Awesome
Shanie and Emo what wonderful pictures and I will have to try the filet someday; my favorite. I look forward to when you get to Italy, my heritage. Lots of love, Aunt Lynn