In case you have not heard, some crazy gringa (American – not a negative term here) named Gail Rosenberg Zucker happened to drop down here for a visit not too long ago. Okay, maybe she did not take the three public buses from the capital and show up on my dirt road in front of my house, but she was in El Salvador, which is what counts. I met her at the airport after a small despedida (going away party) at the beach with some friends (I will talk more about this later). The two hours sweating outside the airport while being bitten up by mosquitoes was worth it. We had the most wonderful time being together.
We visited the Peace Corps office in San Salvador, met the staff and the Country Director, then she was able to meet some of my friends before they headed back to their sites. We had so much fun just catching up with each other, what was happening back home and here. I had such a wonderful opportunity to finally explain how I live, where, and with whom that I just cannot express over e-mail, blog or a phone call. We also checked out a touristy town of Suchitoto (pronounced Sushi –like the food, toto-like Dorothy’s pup pup). While there, we saw how they used the indigo dye to make colorful designs on fabric and did a short boat tour.
We had the opportunity to see Ataco *ahhh-taco-like the Mexican food), do a coffee tour with my volunteer friend Ben, stay at a beautiful resort called Jardin de Celeste, which was just lovely.
flowers at Jardin...
We also made a day trip to see Juayua, the food festival (about an hour bus ride from my site). In Juayua, we hiked to an incredible waterfall I visited during training. The best part about the trip for me was her staying in my community.
My host Mom made a huge chicken soup (first time I have had chicken since living, and it’s a big deal) and I was able to introduce her to the majority of La Loma, everyone was so giving and thankful. She held babies, helped with art class, had lunch with my counterparts.
kids at the school.
It was like my two worlds connecting, it is beyond indescribable. I am so lucky she had the ganas (strength/will) to visit, and I am so proud of her in every way. Not everyone can come down here and live like I do, she was such a trooper!
We also made a day trip to see Juayua, the food festival (about an hour bus ride from my site). In Juayua, we hiked to an incredible waterfall I visited during training. The best part about the trip for me was her staying in my community.
My host Mom made a huge chicken soup (first time I have had chicken since living, and it’s a big deal) and I was able to introduce her to the majority of La Loma, everyone was so giving and thankful. She held babies, helped with art class, had lunch with my counterparts.
It was like my two worlds connecting, it is beyond indescribable. I am so lucky she had the ganas (strength/will) to visit, and I am so proud of her in every way. Not everyone can come down here and live like I do, she was such a trooper!
After my community, we went to the beach and then one more night in San Salvador (the capital). She treated me to a room for the both of us at the Intercontinental (hot water, air conditioning, AND room service) plus a massage – what a treat! I felt like a princess. I was sad to see her go, but happy she can now understand my life in the moment. I know I will never forget my mom coming to visit me during my Peace Corps Service. On a sadder note, in the last three weeks four more people from my original 15 person training class have decided to leave El Salvador. I am beyond sad to see them go, but I feel honored to have been able to know them and respect their decision. We are now down to six in my group. We are still waiting for changes in the program here for the future of Peace Corps El Salvador and how it might look. All I can do is hope for the best and an easy transition. To those of you celebrating Passover and Easter, hope you have a wonderful holiday with whomever you spend it with, make sure you sneak in some crème filled chocolate eggs and matzah ball soup for me! <3
Side note- I am taking down the wish list. My mom brought enough treats, candy, and favorites (big surprise…I know) for at least 6 months. I do always enjoy your notes of support through e-mails and letters! J
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