Buena Onda

Yesterday there was a group of kids from the hostel just sitting around a table talking about everyone's country. I sat down and felt like a star. Everyone was really interested in what I had to say about the way of life in The United States. After everyone had said a little bit everyone was just being silly and talking and funny thing they had found in other places. We were all laughing and having a good time. One person said something to the effect of: "We have two people from Brazil, one from the Dominican Republic, four from Uruguay, a bunch from Argentina, and one American." Then one of the hostel workers said (talking about me): "El es el premiero Americano que yo encuernti que es buena onda." Translation: "He is the first American that I have met that is a cool guy." The moment that the words came out of his mouth I didn't have to think to translate them and my heart sank. I felt proud that I had represented the States well but I really felt bad that he really had never met an American that he could joke and have a good time with.

Mama said there would be days like this

Today was such a mess. I woke up early to say my goodbyes to the Belgium guys (7.00AM). I thought while I was up I would get some things out of the way and eat breakfast. As I was about to leave my ipod froze. The title of the song was visible but none of the buttons did anything. I spent the next hour trying to fix the stupid thing. I had to unlock all my things, take out all the wires, turn the computer back on, mess with itunes, triple check all the plugs (in the dark so as not to wake the other 3 guys in the room). Nothing worked. Then I had to put everything back and lock everything. I missed breakfast. Naturally I was pissed. I walked down the the electronics store to see if they could help. They told me to go across the street (the widest street in the world by the way - no joke) to a video game store. I couldn't find the place - of course - because I was too frustrated and he happened to use a combination of words that I'm not used to hearing. So I decided to walk ten blocks to a better electronics store. They told me that the only place that could help was across town in Palermo - the Apple Store in a shopping mall. I didn't want to go because I told my self I would not take any more taxis but I was already two hours invested at this point and I just wanted my ipod to work. So I took a cab (6$ US) to the place (hunger begins to set in). I get to this mall and I could swear I was in the United States. The mall was so much malls in the U.S. that I begin to start looking at clothes and things, comparing prices...blah blah blah. I even found a Universidad de Palermo information stand (I stopped and asked where my building was in Palermo and the girl showed me). Then I saw a Nike Human Race poster so I went into the store to try and register. They said I had to go online. Finally I found the place. I knew they could help me. The guy took about 45 seconds to look at my ipod then he hands me a little slip of paper and tells me I have to go across to tech support because they only sell the ipods not fix them. I'm 4 hours in at this point. My buddies left, my ipod is broken, I missed breakfast and lunch, and I have been three places and nothing has worked. I feel even worse because I set a goal not to take a cab and I did. Not only that, I have to take another one back and I still haven't gone to tech support. No telling where that is. So I decided to give up. I went into the little market and bought some food and went home. By this time my ipod had ran out of batteries. I was sure it was dead forever. Then when I got home and connected the ipod and turned the computer on it worked! What a day. That was the hardest 10 hour stretch I have had in Argentina. I put my groceries up and treated myself to a stake dinner well deserved (10$ US).

Phone Calls

I made all my phone calls home today. I got to talk to daddy for the first time since I left. He was happy for me. He asked a lot about my safety - I could tell that he is worried about that. He told me that Kaleb is in TN visiting. I'm really glad that daddy and Kaleb get to spend time together. Kaleb has had a lot of strong male influence in his life lately and that is a great thing that I hope continues.

Diana was over at Chasity's house visiting while she is recovering from surgery. I wish her a speedy recover (I know she will be bouncing around in no time).

I did not get a hold of mama. I wish I would have gotten the chance to thank her for the money she put in my account and I hope she know how much easier my life is now that I don't have to worry.

I did not get a hold of my Uncle Sam. I think he went out of town. I'm worried that he is not on his meds. I will be sure to keep calling. He still has not deposited the 500 dollars that he owes me for the car. I'm not really worried about that right now but I think I might have to if I don't here from him soon. I hope everything is going well for him.

Belgium Guys

For the past couple of day I have been rooming with a couple of Belgium guys. We really got along great. I really enjoyed their sarcastic cutting sence of humor for a change (that is something I have not found in any person from Argentina). They traveled all the way from Los Angles to Buenos Aries by bus! During there travels they crossed every country in Central and South American (minus a couple). They are leaving for Belgium tomorrow so I am meeting them at the end of their trip. The intresting aspect for me is seeing there reactions to the end of their time in South America. I know that I will have some of the same feelings that they are feeling when I have to leave.

Today they invited me to go to a pool hall with them. I did not know that we were going to a pool hall until we got there and I found out that that the particular bar that we were in was for pool. Of course I was excited and of course I loved every minute. The place was great in every way - the perfect place for me. We all hung out and shot pool. Nick has a girlfriend from Chile who was in town to say her goodbyes. Nick raved about what are girl she was and after meeting her I can understand why.

Tonight was one of the best so far.

Note to readers: I have a HUGE thing in the works I just don't know when it will happen. Stay tuned!

Puerto Madero

Puerto Madero

Today I walked a few blocks past the Casa Rosada to a place called Puerto Madero. This is B.A.'s newest neighborhood. The place used to be "the docks" but the port of Buenos Aires out grew the capacity of the the old port so it was turned into a residential and fine dining area. Everything is very chic. There are all types of modern restaurants. There is plenty of recreational area along the river walk that makes for nice view. There were people riding bikes, jogging, and I even saw one person using a kayak. This must be an area of growth because many of the building are very modern shapes and made of glass and steel. There is a spectacular bridge for walkers that spans the river's center. The shape of the bridge reminds me of one in Valencia. As I was walking I found a casino! I didn't gamble any money (because I don't have any) but I was glad to know where the casino is. I might pay the blackjack tables a little visit on my birthday (Oct. 17). I must have walked three miles when I decided to stop for lunch at Burger King. While I was in line I met very nice guy named Eduardo. He must have been in his late 30's or early 40's. He sat with me as we ate and we talked about Argentina and a traditional Asado (cook out). He gave me his e mail and said that he would invite me to his family's Asado one day. I was excited to hear this because that is on my Tango list (I think). As we were talking the wind blew my napkin away. I went to pick it up and all the pigeons began eating my food! I had to scare them away. Then I threw them a few fries so they would leave me alone. That only made things worse. I eat my burger (I wasn't going to buy another, 5 second pegion rule) with an audience of about 5 pigeons and Eduardo. I'm going to go back tomarrow for photos.

Hot Dog!

Hot Dog!

Today was a pretty boring day. So I will try and give you a little piece of an interesting part of my day. I was out walking the streets looking for cheep food (as per usual). I come across an empty place with a sign that says:

Pomocion 2 Panchos y gaseosa 9 pesos

Now I don't know what a pancho is but if I get two and a drink for less that 3$ US it is worth trying! So I ask the store owner behind the counter and he says:

Store owner: UM...Hut dog (points to the buns and all the toppings)
Me: Perro caliente (how you would say hot dog in Spain)
Store owner: Um ju git two...um...panchos (extends his arms) and un coke for 9 pesos.
Me: Esta bien (that's good).
Store owner: What you want, coke?
Me: Coke esta bien (I hand him the money).

By this time I could tell this guy like to speak English. He begins to make my hot dog.

Store owner: One now...one later.
Me: (pointing to the toppings) Que son estos?
Store owner: Um...Ketup...Mayonesa....(listing all the toppings with a little help on some)

After he made the hot dog we began to talk about local points on interest (Sports, social issues, that kind of thing). He had to switch to Spanish because some if the ideas were more complex. We talked about the state of Buenos Aires as it pertains to the economic crisis in 2001 and how that has changed the goals of the city. I had no idea that in 2000 Buenos Aires was one of the cities in the running for the Olympics (Athens won). He told me Buenos Aires is in no position to host an Olympics anymore because there are too many people that go hungry. He said the investment is better spent on hospitals for the poor than hosting an Olympics games. I was sad to hear him say this. Buenos Aires has regressed and his feeling are proof. I told him about the time surrounding Atlanta when they hosted the Olympics and how much Atlanta has grown. As I ate he told me about place in the cities where children die of hunger. I could tell by the look in his eyes and the sound in his voice that he was not joking in the least bit. I felt bad for even suggesting Buenos Aires would benefit from an Olympics. I thought about the people I saw digging in the trash earlier and quickly tried to change the subject. Being a good conversationalist he let me off the hook and we began to talk about something else.

I really enjoyed talking to the store owner and I think he like talking in English. The hot dogs (panchos) were good. I think I will go back next week.

Chill’n with the Chileans

Chill’n with the Chileans

I had to change rooms at the hostel where I'm staying. My bed was reserved so they moved me to a room on the second floor. I'm happy because the internet continues to work even though I'm further from the access point. Then the attendant surprises me with the news that four of my new roommates are girls from Chile. Well I like girls and I like Chile (and chili). Naturally I was excited. These girls did not disappoint. All of them are super sweet. They speak just enough English where they can't bail me out everytime I can't think of a word. We spent the day in San Telmo at the flea market. I had already been and they had not so I decided to go for another look. Plus we walked so we didn't have to pay for a cab. While I was there I began to remember what shopping with a group of girls is like. There were plenty of interesting people to watch as they looked at all the trinkets so the waits were not bad. As night was setting in we stopped for dinner at a little restaurant. I enjoyed sitting there eating with them (check the photo under my photos). I'm excited about the new people in my life. I hope we all have a good time just as I did with my previous roommates. I'll keep you posted.

First night out in B.A.

First night out in B.A.

Last night was my first night out in B.A. I had a blast. We did not do anything spectacular but just being out at night and taking in all the sights and sounds was cool. My roommates and I went to a little cafe in Palermo. They all had a small cafe (and managed to sip in it for over an hour). I had a Quillmes which is the Argentine beer of choice. We spent a good hour in the cafe laughing and talking about nothing. At one point that I mentioned that my camera was waterproof I put it in my glass of beer to prove that it was. That was worth a good laugh especially when I attempted to take a drink while the camera took a picture while in my glass. The photo did not take. (check the photo). Later we went to this hip little bar that remined me a lot of home. There was a happy hour and many of the bar tenders spoke English. The whole place was like a cave with many stairs to climb, many nooks, and just as many crannys (I like the word cranny). The entire ambiance was red back lighting and earthy wood tables and chairs that seemed to be cut from the stump of a tree. Oh and they played the song "Baby I got ya Money" by Old Dirty Bastard (a.k.a Big Baby Jesus). So that instantly made the place more cool. I tired out around 2:30 am. I guess that is the American last call kicking in. I caught a cab home and went to sleep. Even though I really enjoyed the night I got the same empty-why-am-I-doing-this feeling that I always get after a night out in the U.S. I thought maybe that would be different now that I'm in B.A. I guess not. At that moment, for the first time of the trip, I felt bad. It was a great first night out in B.A.

Hostel one week update

Hostel One Week Update

O.K. it has been about one week in the Hostel and I really loved it! I was nervous coming in with the thought that this in only temporary until I figure out what I'm doing for the rest of the trip. My outlook has changed completely. I feel lucky to have stayed with the people that are in my room. There was no conflict at all. They really opened up from the beginning and made living here easier for me.

As far as the facilities go, I wonder how this place makes any money. I only pay about 9 dollars U.S. a day. My computer is always plugged in the the internet (no extra charge). There is a small breakfast everyday and the bathrooms are not the worst that I have seen. Hell they let me use the sheets and blanket (did not pack those).

I know about the horror stories - I'm just glad none of that happened to me. Because if something did happen I would probably written off living in hostels forever and I would have never got to experience the way the youth travel in other countries.

MALBA

MALBA

Museum of Latin American Art in Buenos Aires.

I love this museum! There are so many fascinating works of art. There were multimedia pieces, abstract paintings, photographs, moving industrial art, ceramics, and of course a few crazy off-the-wall things. Unlike the Fire Arts Museum this Museum had several jaw dropping pieces. The star of the show was definitely Antonio Berni's Manifestacion from 1934. There were also works from Diego Revira, Alejando Solar, among others. Everything seemed to catch your visual attention. The only bad thing about the whole experience was that I could not take pictures (I managed to find some pictures on line).

Aside from the art itself the building was a marvel of modern architecture. Every wall and floor was white stone and the individual rooms had wood floors. In the main entry you had a perfect view though glass windows. The internal frame of the wall was visible and you could see the steel cables - a theme carried though out the entire building. From the outside you can see steel, a water feature, and stone. There is also a light feature that moves according to the amount of noise on the street. I don't know if this is some kind of political statement or not. What a perfect building to house a modern art museum. All and all I really enjoyed myself and I would gladly go back to this museum again

Mate

Mate

Last night I received a big surprise! My two new roommates brought a big bag of Mate and they were nice enough to share it with me and explain a little about how Mate is drank. From what I can gather (there Spanish was a little different that what I was used to) Mate is a drink made by mixing hot water into a metal container filled with herbal leaves. Then the drinker drinks as much of the water through a metal straw from the container as they can. The bowl is filled again with hot water and given to the next person to drink. Mate can also be served cold (given a different name) and with sugar. They tell me that mate was drank by people in the in the campo and farm workers on cold nights like last night. The mate tastes a little bitter like green tea but I really enjoyed the taste. We all sat around the campfire (space heater) on the hardwood floor and in our bunks, drank our mate, and talked about politics. I did not add much to add to the discussion (sometimes it was in Portuguese) but I followed what was said and enjoyed hearing other people ideas on what is going on in their country. The discussion was genuine almost like I wasn't there and everyone was just talking. The feel of the night reminded me of a sleepover - with bigger kids and more serious conversation. I would love to say that later there was a huge pillow fight and prank phone calls in Spanish but that was not the case

A Modest Proposal concerning our gas crisis

A Modest Proposal concerning our gas crisis

As the price of gas climes to record levels most American stand by as victims with no recourse. The average citizen has no power over international politics. The average citizen cannot introduce a technology that could improve the situation. Even if the average citizen could make a change (such as driving a fuel efficient vehicle or using alternate forms of transportation) the little change would still do nothing to change the problem as a whole. Clearly an entire way of life must change.

The root of the problem is that there are too many people driving too many cars. In order to prevent there from being more drivers in the future, and thus lowering the demand for fuel I suggest a Modest Proposal. We should begin using the bodies of the young to power our cars. A young healthy child well nursed, is, at a year old is a most powerful source of fuel whether turned to E80 ethanol or bio diesel. By using the young as fuel we can solve our oil problem in two ways. We will use less fuel taking the kids to and from school, and we can also save by lowering the number of future drivers. At the rate the world is going the children will suffer in a dirty polluted world so we really are doing them a great service.

Now I know the detractors will say this is not ethically correct. We have been choosing our cars over our own health, our children's health, and our environment for years. Sacrificing one generation could put an end to all of this. According to The Foundation for a Better Earth if we can just tough it out and sacrifice one generation of young children then we will no longer be dependent on petroleum as a main energy source.

Come on everyone sacrifice your child for gas. You can always have another kid, but you shouldn't be expected to walk to work !

Of course this is satire based on Jonathan Swift's A Modest Proposal but it is not far from the truth.

Picasso

Picasso

I just got back from a Picasso exhibition down the street (check the photos). All of the works were dedicated to a friends of Picasso named Arias. I was impressed. There was a nice little group of ceramics - many with Spanish bullfighting scenes. There was some colorful drawings and a few engraved ceramics. I wish the place had a little better lighting so some of the photos came out better but at least I got to see the work. I was never really impressed with much of what I saw in Spain but some how the more of Picasso I see the more I like it.

Yesterday I went to see Batman The Dark Knight with two of my roommates. The movie was O.K. They seemed to like the movie a lot. The first half was good and then it seemed like the movie would never end. I can say this though. Heath Ledger put on a hell of a performance as Joker. You could feel the evil come from his character.

La Boca

La Boca

I just got back from La Boca (the mouth). La Boca is kinda a working class neighborhood made up of mostly Italian immigrants. The main draw is the interesting buildings made of tin and painted in bright colors. The story goes that the the immigrants didn't have house so they made shacks out of tin and painted the shacks with left over boat paint. Many artist and performers are attracted to this neighborhood and they can still be found there today.

Tango and Soccer are supposed to have been introduced to Argentina in the Boca barrio. You can still find people dancing Tango in the street and many soccer themed sights. (Check the photos)

I really liked this neighborhood. The caminito (little walk) was nice. There were many people taking pictures and others asking the tourists if they wanted to take a picture with someone dressed up in a tango outfit. I really liked the feel of the neighborhood. You could see the river front from one of the streets. The docks had that unpleasant smell of the ocean - somehow I didn't mind it much. Many of the roads were cobblestone. What I really liked was that the barrio was nice too look at but still rough around the edges. There were still "bad" parts of the neighborhood. I saw many stray dogs, old buildings, graffiti, and a car on blocks. I also went to a museum of paper. I wanted to go to the Museum of Fine Art in the Boca barrio but there was a huge group of school kids so I decided to pass the time in the smaller museum next door. The paper and engraving museum was pretty cool. By the time I left I was getting sleepy and I had ran out of battery power on the camera so I decided to catch a cab back. Come hell or high water tomorrow I'm going to go somewhere on the Subte. I'm tired of paying 5$US each way for cab rides.

Mas Pesos Mas prolbemas

Mas Pesos Mas prolbemas

I took this from another Blog because was starting to grow into a whole other topic.

I am just now getting used to the change from dollars to pesos. Here is the breakdown:

Typical cab ride 5.50 US or 17 pesos
Huge 1.5L Sprite 2.5 US or 7.5 pesos
Dinner out 15 US or 45 pesos
High end clothing is about the same (men's suit 900 pesos or 300$US but I don't know if that is just the jacket or everything.
Midrange clothing is about 15% less
Shoes about about 45% more than in US
Outdoor cothing is double (150US for the same pair of shoes Chris bought the other day for 45US)
Electronics double (my exact camera with out memory 1800 pesos or 600 US!)
Coke is 20% more than pepsi.

All and all you get middle GA prices and get to live in one of the largest Spanish speaking cities in the world. I thought I would have money to burn but actually you have to hunt for the steals. I found a large cheese pizza for 3.40US. I guess it does not help that I am living about a three minute walk from their White House. I will keep this up to date as things change.

UPDATE:

The more I look the better deals I find.

You can get a COLD 1.5 liter coke or sprite for less than 5 pesos = 1.65 US$ if you buy the off brand the price drops to around 3 peso = 1 US$ (at the asian owned market)
I bought a huge burger "super completo" with cheese a thin slice of ham and a fried egg plus a small pepsi and a "tall boy" (bigger than a regular sized can) of the local beer for 15 pesos = 5 $US.
Half a cheese pizza 5 pesos = 1.65 dollars.
Also I like that no tax is added in addition to the price that is listed for the item (almost like everything is 7% off). So you will know the exact amount of change you should receive everything you buy something.
If you venture a little off the main street there are some good food deals. Mostly I focus on food because that is my main daily expense. I'm going to learn the bus lines and train so I can save even more. Stay tuned.

Hostel Day 1

Hostel Day 1

O.K. I'm still with holding judgement but I have to say that this Hostel isn't that bad. Based on my expereince so far I really have nothing bad to say. All the people that I have met (5 from Brazil and 1 from Ecudor) have been really nice. All of them speak some English, Spanish and Portgeese. I went to a little bar with two of and had two draft beers (3.50$ U.S. each) in a super cool sports bar. Then I ate dinner with two of the others. I let them use my adapter and lap top to check their e mail. I really think they saw this as an olive branch of peace (it was). They gave me the low down. Basically they said to watch my things espically my laptop. Over dinner I got to sit down and talk with them. I was very suprised to know that many of the hopes and dreams they have for themselves match my own. They know about sociolgists that I have never heard of and books I have never heard of! They are mostly staying in Argentina because it is cheeper than Brazil. One girl worked as a translator for some govermental agency. I'm gald they are my roommates and I hope nothing happens to change my mind.

San Telemo

San Telemo

I walked around San Telemo today. There is a flee market there on the weekends. I really like walking around a seeing the sights. There were a bunch of hand crafted items that I thought were a real bargain (knitted sweaters, leather goods of all kinds, jewelry) I was not really there to buy - I was more interested in the sights. I did see a very nice leather book cover that would have been perfect for my journal - maybe another day. There were the traditional street performers, mimes, bands, people doing card tricks. I was surprised to run into two people from the University of Washington. They were speaking English. What a happy feeling to be able to talk in English for a change. I would guess that I have not had a conversation in English the whole trip until this point. They said that this neighborhood is filled with English speakers (A fact confirmed when I saw two backpackers with awesome Gregory back packs). I like this little neighborhood. The drinks were cheaper, the internet faster, and the streets have more life.

I checked into the hostel today. I think that I will be fine the only thing I worry about are my things. You put your things in a little locked room that only the attendants are supposed to have access to. I am still with holding judgment. I have all of the super important things in my small backpack. Computer, passport, pills, camera, ipod, and everything I need to live for a week. I had to put all the rest of my clothing items and my tent and sleeping bag in the locked room. I emailed Stephen who said I might be able to leave my bags at his Uncles flat. I hope that works out.

Hostel

Hostel

First thing this morning I went across the street to the youth hostel to inquire about a cheaper room. I do not mind the room I have now but I feel like I can down grade now that I have been in the city for a few days. The guy told me that the price for one room per night is 28$A (about 10$ US) but he said that I could get one night free if I rented for 6 nights. All told 158 $ pesos for a week that is about 53$ US. Oh and internet and breakfast are included. As long as I..m safe and my stuff does not get stolen then I can deal with the dorm room. I check in tomorrow. Watch for updates and an address where you can send me mail. I am going to put the beach trip off for one week while I wait for the money situation to stabilize.

Zoo

Zoo

I went to the zoo this afternoon. On the way over I saw a bunch of things I wanted to take pics of. I had already commited to going to the zoo in my mind so I decided to get thoes on the way back or another day (turns out another day). Entry to the zoo was 15 pesos (5 US). The whole thing was well worth the price. They had a buch of exotic animals and the walk around the park was not bad at all. I really enjoyed the Big cats although they proved very difficult to photograph. I took photos and tryed to understand all the conversations of the numerous little children around. I find hearing children speak is much easier because they say predictable things. I was suprised at how little amount of space the animals had to live in. Also from inside the park you could see taxis, highrise apartments, the street - the two different kinds of space so close to one another made for an intresting contrast. When I left I saw thing guy with a donkey that was all dressed in nice bridle work just stading on the corner. I was transfixed and reached right for my camera. Then the guy offered to photograph me on the donkey! How could you turn down that offer! He agreed to take two photos one with my camera and one with his if I would pay for the instant photo (20$ pesos, 6.50 $US) I knew the price was too high but honestly I pretty much decided to pay whatever he asked as long as it was not out of this world expensive. You can see the result on my profile page. I laughed for twenty minutes then caught a cab and laughed as I walked home. I feel like I basically shit on Argentina for my own amusement and that makes it even more funny. No wonder people think Americans are pricks we take pictures on dressed up donkies and then laugh like fools. I..m going to try and be more culturally aware. I really am.

Recoleta

Recoleta

I went to Recoleta to pay my respects to Evita Paron. I remember as I child my mom would never let me pray to Buddha if I wasn't clean. I guess she wanted me to respect the dead. Evita deserves the same respect so I decided to clean up and shave the beard (check the photos). So I went out and bought the necessary stuff. I wasn't able to cut my hair until after I left the cemetery. I couldn't for the life of me find a place to cut my hair in the Microcento. The cab ride over was amazing. The driver could say hello in about 15 languages including Chinese, English, Russian and Hebrew! I must admit I was a little nervous when I got to the cemetery. When I stepped in all that was gone. This really was a special place. The only think about the whole experience that wasn't surreal was all the tourists (me included) taking photos. I really love how the people that run the cemetery 1) don't charge to enter and 2) Do not over emphasize Evita's grave. In fact Evita's grave is tucked away off to the side and the tour guides don't walk you right there as soon as you enter. I was expecting nothing short of neon sings and T shirts as soon as you came within 500 feet of Evita's final resting place. There was nothing like that - Bravo to the people responsible. I guess their mamas made them respect the dead when they were little also. Since the grave is kinda obscured I liked having to hunt for it. I really felt like I was discovering something. After I left I found a super nice salon. I paid 20 $US for a hair cut. I guess that is not bad. I pay 15 at MasterCuts and this place would make MasterCuts look like MasterBators. There were at least 60 (I asked) stylists and they were full to the max. The guy did a super job (I think he was gay too. Funny I thought that was only in the U.S.) I took a pic to remember the moment.

Recoleta

Recoleta

I went to Recoleta to pay my respects to Evita Paron. I remember as I child my mom would never let me pray to Buddah if I wasn..t clean. I guess she wanted me to respect the dead. Evita deservs the same respect so I decided to clean up and shave the beard (check the photos). So I went out and bought the necessary stuff. I wasn..t able to cut my hiar until after I left the cemetary. I couldn't for the life of me find a place to cut my hair in the Microcento. The cab ride over was amazing. The driver could say hello in about 15 lanuages including Chinese, English, Russian and Hebrew! I must admit I was a little nervous when I got to the cemetary. When I stepped in all that was gone. This really was a special place. The only think about the whole experience that wasn't sureal was all the tourists (me included) taking photos. I really love how the people that run the cemetary 1) don't charge to enter and 2) Do not over emphize Evita's grave. In fact Evitas grave is tucked away off to the side and the tour guides dont walk you right there as soon as you enter. I was expecting nothing short of neon sings and T shirts as soon as you came within 500 feet of Evitas final resting place. There was nothing like that - Bravo to the people responsible. I guess their mamas made them respect the dead when they were little also. Since the grave is kinda obscured I liked having to hunt for it. I really felt like I was discoving something. After I left I found a super nice salon. I paid 20 $US for a hair cut. I guess that is not bad. I pay 15 at MasterCuts and this place would make MasterCuts look like MasterBators. There were at least 60 (I asked) stylists and they were full to the max. The guy did a super job (I think he was gay too. Funny I thought that was only in the U.S.) I took a pic to remeber the moment.

Here I stand

Here I stand
Current mood: adventurous

WARNING MANY TYPING ERRORS DIFFERENT KEYBOARD SETUP

This isn't going to be a full post because I have to pay (.33 cents per hour). I finally made it go Buenos Aires - not without a few hiccups. I lost my plastic shovel and my tri pod. I think the airline my have taken them out of my checked baggage because they were both on the same piece of luggage and the last time I saw them both was loading my luggage. I guess that is there little way of telling me not to bring these type of items on the plane. No big loss.

Then leaving the airport the lady tried to short change me (or maybe it was an accident) so I told her I didn't want to take the shuttle anymore and just give me all my money back. I took a cab - that cost more than the shuttle but at least he took me right to the place I wanted to stay and he didn't miss count.

Im staying at the Hotel Alcazar 935 Avenida de Mayo until Monday. The room I got was a little more than I expected (30 dollars/per night) but I wanted to stay in the heart of the city (micocentro) so I would save having to take cabs from place to place. Plus today was my first day and I just didn't feel like sleeping in a 8 person dorm.

Culturally speaking being here reminds me a lot of Spain. I pretty much understand them and I have had many people tell me how well I speak Spanish. If it were only one I wouldn't pay any attention but I think three is worth crowing over ,)

I have photos and other stuff coming so stay tuned.

Pre Trip 3

Pre Trip 3

Today is the first day of the trip. I sold my car - symbolicly I have a new begining. I decided to fly to Houston insted of driving. Easy choice when you have no car. I had to pay 120$ for the ticket for the ticket but I would have had to pay 40$ for a bus ticket and wait 9 extra hours - that is worth the price. I met two of the most intresting people today. This girl Kim was so intresting. She remined me of myself. I was glad to meet her beacuse I got to see how others must see me. She didn't want kids and was indifferent to marrige. Talking to her made me realize how I have changed my tune with regards to marrige and family over the last couple of years. The ride to the airport was intresting. All my luggage got rained on and my flight was delayed. When I got on the plane I was seated next to a very intresting fellow. The guy, whos name I forgot, was a lawyer, well travled, and a great conversationlist. We talked all the way to Houston about life, fatherhood, social theory, place we had been, placed we wanted to go - just everything. He gave me a differnet image of life after young adulthood. He is very much the person I saw myself being after I left college. I hope I can achive that type of life one day. In the middle of the conversation he bought me a drink with a voucher. When the lady came by I couldn't find the voucher he gave me so he used another. Later I found the voucher in my wallet. I'm going to use it as a keepsake. On the A.T. people talk about "trail magic" and "trail angles." I think these two people gave me a bit of "trail magic." In conversating with them I was able to see my old way of thinking and the way I wish to be in the future all in one day. The whole experince reminded me of Christmas Carol. Ghost of Earl Future and Ghost of Earl Past all in one day. That is exactly what I needed, exactly the right time, provided by complete stragers. What a way to start a trip!

Car/Updates

Car/Updates
Current mood: excited

My uncle agreed to buy my car. He said he could give me 500 dollars now and 500 in the future. I think that is a fair deal. I really hope Sam knows how much I needed this and appreciate everything he has done. I think he does that is something that you can't hide. I will be sure to send him a card from B.A. I'm sad to see the car go. Of all the cars that I have ever driven this has carried me through the most. No A.C., no C.D. player, no power anything, leaking oil, and I would still rather have the Subie than the "nicer" cars I have driven. Sammy and I were talking about the car and I told him "I like my car because it keeps me humble - hard to be big ball'n when you have to fill your car with oil in the rain. The Subie reminds me that I still have a ways to go." That just about sums everything up. I really feel like this is MY car and I'm just letting him use it. Maybe I can buy the car back when I get back from B.A.

Fort Worth

Fort Worth

Entry from 7/14/08

Today I drove to Fort Worth with stops in Grambling, LA and I passed through Shreveport. I was proud that I didn't stop to gamble even though I felt the urge. As I was driving I saw the casino and felt my body move towards it. Then I thought I could lose my entire trip if I lost a few hundred dollars so i decided to press on. My uncle Sam called later and asked if I stopped and i was happy to report that I didn't. To bad I couldn't practice the same restraint when I passed Bass Pro Shops this moring. I bought a plastic shovel and a bear bell. If I ever need to warn a bear that I'm in the woods I have a bell that is supposed to get the job done.
My uncle sam bought a peice of land. I'm so happy for him. The view from his would-be back yard is amazing. The trees look like the canopy of the rain forest from that high on the ridge. He says that he won't be able to build anything for a few years but the idea is worth the considerable amount he paid for the land. Sammy also sid that he went off his meds two weeks ago. I'm worried for him. Being bipolar myself I can really relate to his situation. He feels like he is missing his little spark and being off his meds brings that back. That is just in the short term. When I tryed to do the same thing I slowly sank into depression over a six month span without even realizing. I don't want that to happen for Uncle Sam. I'm going to be sure to keep in touch.

Miles: 450
Total 1150
Mood: Excited

On the road

On the road

I left TN today. The plan was to take I40 to Mephis and then to Little Rock and then to Dallas. When I got to I40 there was a chemical spill. I had to turn around. 60 miles an an hour wasted. I ate a late breakfast and spent some extra time with daddy. I guess that is fate stepping in. Maybe I wasn't ment to leave on that route at that time. When I finally left the rain was so heavy that I had to driver 60 miles/hour with my hazards on. While I was driving I nearly hot into an accident. The whole trip nearly ended before it started. Then I reached the AL state line and the sky cleared and everything looked perfect. I didn't make as much progress as I would have liked but I decided to stop. Darkness was setting in and there was still as ways until I reached Shreveport so I decided to stop in Pearl, MS. The room cost 55$. In three days I can get the same room for less than half the price in B.A.

Mood: Calm
Miles travled: 450
Total: 700

Pre Trip 2

Pre Trip 2

Days activity: I packed my things up yesterday. Everything fit fine. I will have to pay 25 dollars for an extra bag. I know that I'm missing a bunch of thing but oh well I guess.

Intresting people I met: Chris brought his girlfriend over. We joked around for a while while I packed. I was suprised at how much I enjoyed talking with her. Even though she seemed more Chinese than American she was very easy to talk to. I think her and Chris are a good match for eachother. Little side note: we all weighed ourselfs and she weighed in at an amazing 85 lbs! Holy crap I think my bags weighed that much! I ran into Zack Skala at the drug store and he mentioned me going to Argentina. I told him about the webpage and this blog so the word is getting out =)

Miles travled: No change

I received good news in the money department. My mom was able to give me some money. I can't say that I'm suprised - she always comes through in the cluth. Then even better my sister was able to pay me early for watching Kaleb. I'm not nearly as worried now. I bought a guide book with my new found wealth.

Mood: Stressed from all the packing.

Bucket list

Bucket list
Current mood: adventurous

Last night I watched The Bucket List. That had to be the perfect movie before I leave the country. The movie revolves around a list of things to do before death. I thought I would take that same approach with my trip. So here is the very first list. Please let me know if I need to add anything.

Tango List
1. Go to Iguazu Falls
2. Improve my Spanish (All A's)
3. Give away something important and expect nothing in return
4. Go to Machu Pichu
5. Debate a political issue in spanish
6. Sky dive
7. Drive a car
8. Go out somewhere with a date that requires a suit
9. Dance the Tango with a stranger
10. Dine at a Argentine stakehouse
11. Tell someone how I feel even if I think I shouldn't
12. Send the following people personal post cards: Mom, Dad, sisters, Keith + fam, Cathy, Sammy
13. Camp out in the wild alone
14. Go to Bariloche
15. Go to Mendoza
16. Go to Cordoba
17. Go to a Boca Jr's game
18. Find a stranger from Georgia/The South
19. Return home safe
20. Do the Yetti call!
21. Pay respects to the dead (Evita) in Recoleta Cemetary
22. Go to a Tango show
23. Stay on an estancia


I left some things off (get way too drunk for example) because I know I'm going to do thoes thing anyway and they do not fulfill any personal or social advancement so they do not fit into the ideals of the list. I'm sure this list will change as the trip goes along. I will write an entry when I cross one off the list.

Gear

Gear

Here is a list of the gear that I'm bringing to Argentina. I will post comments on how the gear preforms under different conditions. I doubt this will be very interesting to many. This is really more for me.

Backpack: Lowe Alpine TFX Horizon 65
Paid: 135$
This pack has a bunch of features (sleeping bag compartment, place for a water bladder, adjustable fit, rain cover) for the price. I wish it held a little more but it has plenty of place to latch things to the outside. I have had 45-50 lbs in the bag on prob and carried it for over 4 miles. The side pockets really suck. I'm happy with the bag for the money I paid but I wish I had another 100$ to buy one that address all the above gripes.

Sleeping bag:
REI Polar Pod +20
Paid 65$
I like the shape of this bag. The little "pillow pocket" on the inside is nice. I really like how you can pretty much make yourself a cocoon if you really need to. None of these things are unique to this bag in particular but they are cool. I had trouble with the zipper but I always hate zippers on camp stuff. The bag seems big to me and is hard to stuff into a little space. I don't know if other bags can address this or not but I will check this on the next bag I buy. I slept in the bag one cool night in the summer. I slept fine once I got comfortable my back was a little tight when I woke up. Next time I will use a sleeping pad.

Boots: Hi-Tec V-Lite FastHike Low Light-Hiking
Paid: 45$
I like the boots. Easy to wear, kept my feet dry, traction is good, looks only O.K.

Tent: Kelty Pagosa 4
Paid 144$
I love this tent! This tent is easy to set up. I love how you just hook the clips to the tent poll instead of running the polls through the tent. It rained hard one afternoon and the tent was bone dry better yet the tent took the wind without so much as a flinch. My tent may have a design flaw. One corner of the rain fly does not have a plastic clip like the other three and that seems odd. I may have been better off buying a two person tent and saving the weight however I'm willing to haul the extra weight for the extra space. My nephew Kaleb broke one of the tie dows. I bought some nylon rope and replaced the broken rope. Worked like charm.

Raincoat: Marmot Oracle Jacket
Paid: 110$
Perfect jacket. You can shove it in a small space. The fit is perfect for me. I can't get over how useful the rain proof coating is. Pit zips - genius. Looks really good as outerwear. I find myself reaching for this jacket instead of my favorite heather grey ultra worn in hoodie - that is saying something. I would recommend this jacket to anyone. I know I will have this baby for a good long time.

Camera: Olympus stylus 850SW
Paid: 280$
This camera is waterproof to 10 feet and shockproof if dropped at 5 feet. That is why I bought this cam. The zoom is limited and the pixils should be more but I understand that waterproofing the camera is where the money was spent. I do like the little features (high speed, panorama, etc.) Overall the camera takes good pics and I don't have to worry about breaking it.

CamelBack 70oz water blatter
Paid: 27$
I feel bad even posting this. I went to WalMart and found basically the exact non name brand blatter for 8 dollars! The only reason that I didn't take the thing back is beacuse I love using it so much and didn't want to find the box and take it back and then make something up about how I didn't want it and all that jazz. I would say this is a must for any one using a heavy pack. Hands free water and I recently bought a clip to keep the straw in place so the whole thing works even better. 70oz is good but I would buy a much bigger blatter if my pack could hold it. 70oz is enough for one person by themself for a full day - any more than that and you will need another water source. I'm still trying to find a way to carry multiple water bladders at the same time. Little tip: load your blatter full of ice and then put the water in. As the ice melts the water stays very cold.

JanSport Odyssey Day pack
Paid 50$
I bought this pack at an outlet store outside of ATL. At the time I feelt like to was spending to compulsively but I'm glad I bought this bag. The specs say that it only holds 38L but that seems too low. My big pack holds 65L. The little back seems like it can hold just as much and the bigger pack. I love the features. There is room for a hydration pack (I bought the cheaper one at Walmart for 10 dollars) plenty of little nooks to store things. Best part about this pack is the suspension. There is a hip belt - which I love, latch points, and plenty of room to adjust the load. I like the pack so much that I left my carry on in TN and put everything is this bag. I put everything in the new bag with room to spare. I'm pleased with the pack - plus it allows me to have a smaller pack to go on shorter trips and retains all the features of my bigger pack. I'm going to stitch my name in this pack just as I did the other one.

Swiss Army Camper Knife
Paid 24$
This is just a basic little Swiss Army Knife. There are 10 different function, two blades, can opener, bottle opener, and a couple of other things. I would really like to have a pair of scissors but I did not feel like paying the extra money b/c I knew I could get buy with just the most basic unit. I was surprised to know that the price that I got on the street was cheaper than I found on line.

Pre tip 1

Pre tip 1
Current mood: excited

Today I set up this mysapce in order to share my journey. I really saw the value of trip journals when I discovered journals from the A.T. on line. Some of the people posted every day, what they did that day, how far they hiked, what they carried and how well the gear performed. Looking at things like that really helps in planning of a trip and I hope that this journal can help in some similar way. Here is I'm going to set up the blog. Everyday I would like to inclue:

Day's activity:

Mood: I know you can put this one on the front page of the myspace page but I would rather post it in a blog.

Intresting people that I met today:

The thing I would be doing if I were home:

Miles travled each day:

Total miles traveled:

I'm going to try and inclue all of these things in every journal just to give myself some type of structure. Of course I will insert my Earl Kline soap box moment from time to time.

So here we go.

Day's activity: Today I stated my Earl en Argentina myspace page. Yesterday I did something trip related by hiking about 2 mile in a nature rescure area of High Falls, GA. Physically the walk wasn't difficult - the animals were the big attraction. Also I sewed my name on my back pack to offically make it mine. The name came out nice however it took a lot longer than I expected.

Mood: I'm excited for the trip to start and nervious that I won't have enough money to cover my first month in Buenos Aires.

Intresting people that I met today: I haven't met anyone new today however I am making the journal in hopes that many intresting people in the future will be able to read it.

The thing I would be doing if I were home: I am pretty much home

Miles travled each day: 50 miles to High Falls yesterday

Total miles traveled: 50 miles