October Newsletter - KD in Uruguay

KD’s Uruguayan Adventures
October 2007 Issue

Walking on Sunshine!
My summer home for the past two years, Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp, has taught me many things, among which is: “It’s about the journey, not the destination.” My year in Uruguay is definitely a journey and each evening I am fortunate to have time to walk to las Ramblas, a walking path that parallels the beaches of Montevideo, and reflect on the steps that have made this journey life-changing. Laughing to myself about the way the kids of Escuelita I love the toddler game, “Horsey, horsey, carry me”, eating brunch every Sunday with my neighbors, Carla, Carlos and Alejandra, and joking around with my co-workers at La obra are among many things that have made these past two months irreplaceable.

Karin and I were able to take part in Un Trato Por El Buen Trato, a campaign that raises child and adolescent abuse awareness by vaccinating people in the streets of Montevideo with anti-hitting “shots” (hard candies). After observing a few vaccinations, I decided to test out my skills and ended up chatting with quite a few people about the campaign and the importance of child abuse awareness. An added bonus was that I had a chance to explain my work in Uruguay, as a result of people noticing my (Spanish) accent!

Mis Uruguayos avoritos!
Pastor Wilma Rommel is one of those people whose smile makes your day; fortunately, I get to see her on a daily basis! I have had the privilege of working with her in many projects at Nuestro Salvador and she has adopted me into her family. Wilma is an extremely patient and loving person whose characteristics I hope to adopt as my own as I follow my call to ministry. Gracias por todo, Wilma!

Cultural Corner
Get to know Uruguay

Saludos!
One of the beautiful parts of Uruguayan culture is that everyone gives kisses to say hello and goodbye; men, women, people you know, those you are meeting for the first time – everyone partakes in this way of greeting! La Obra has been a blessing in many ways, especially because the kids greet me every day with a kiss on the cheek and make sure that they give one to me before they head home. It has really helped me to feel welcome here in Uruguay!

La Feria de los sabados
I wake up each Saturday morning with excitement, knowing that I get to go down the street to La Feria, which is very similar to a farmers market. For eight to ten blocks there are people stocked up with fresh vegetables, fruits, fish, random items such as artificial legs or sewing machines, etc. Not only is it less expensive than the grocery store but is has also been a blessing to be able to cook with fresh food and eat lots of tasty produce. I have to admit my Midwestern roots shine through as I have been able to make friends with the “hombre de queso” (the cheese man). Upon my arrival he is preparing a strong cheese, Colonia, for my purchase – which I will certainly miss after going back to the States.