I'm sorry for whining, it's really not that bad. In fact, it's not actually bad at all. At the three month mark I finally have some semblance of a routine. Well, probably as much of a routine as you can have in a country where everything is "fluid" (in Kiko's words).
I just finished my third week of pilates! Three times a week, at 9am for an hour. I really like it - it's definitely challenging but I like the variety of workouts and I love my teacher. Maritere is Kiko's cousin's girlfriend, who I met at a wedding where she was really nice and friendly toward me, and super fun. She's in incredible shape (and has an incredible shape, sheesh!), and she's an excellent teacher. Kiko's cousin Flori also goes at the same time, and both of these lovely women will help me out in English when I obviously don't understand the instructions. I've already seen some improvement in my body and energy level, which you know is important when you are starting an exercise program and you're sore and need motivation to get out of bed!
I leave for my class at 8am, getting to the sports center around 8:15. This gives me forty-five minutes of quiet time with my book and my journal. I started this routine by accident. Kiko dropped me off early one day, and I walked over to the park, sat on a bench, and my new tradition was born. My best friend Jennie and I have just resumed our Christian book study, which is something we used to do that I have really missed. We read and make notes, which is what I do in the park (lately I've moved indoors at the sports center because of the mist) and then once a week or so we skype to discuss everything. I'm so happy for this!
This was my first full week teaching English for business executives at Nextel. One session with a high-intermediate student twice a week, and another class of three brand new English speakers three times a week. The students were all really great, quickly learning the phrase "just kidding" when I told them they would have 10 pages of homework, all grammar! The company I work for provides the books, CDs, and additional materials I need. Early morning and after work hours make things interesting, and I may get more students in the future. But working seven and a half hours this week was a good start, and I really enjoyed teaching again.
Kiko's sobrina just finished her first international coaching class, the same one that Kiko took. As a class requirement, they needed to practice their new skills, so I gladly volunteered myself to Cinzia. At our first coaching session several weeks ago, Cinzia helped me with a goal setting exercise, and the following week, I met several of my objectives (exercise, work and book study). Our third session included lunch and shopping at my favorite discount store, so the extra benefits of being coached by my niece are getting to know her, enjoying her company and speaking English!
My days can be full if I choose them to be. The dogs go to the park or for a walk around the neighborhood three times a day. About once a week Kiko and I have lunch at my sister-in-law Marcela's house. I appreciate the invitation of hospitality, and always enjoy the large afternoon meal. Once in a while I'll meet one of my friends (Nara or Jackie) for lunch or coffee, I walk to the grocery store or Ovalo Miraflores, take a taxi to the big mall called Larcomar. I have lots of time for my "Daniel" Bible Study; catching up with friends and family on facebook, email and skype; reading; and watching Law & Order and CSI reruns. I am hopeful of meeting some new friends, and getting to know more of Kiko's family. Of course Kiko and I have fun together when we can, sharing nice dinners and movie dates, and always looking forward to a new adventure.
And now I've survived Lima on my own. Kiko had a business trip this week, leaving Monday night and not returning until late this evening (Friday). As you can imagine, I was a bit nervous about being alone here. But I have arranged all my transportation for pilates and work - our security guard referred me to a neighbor who is a taxi driver, and he has become my personal driver! I just give him my schedule and he picks me up in front of my apartment, then I take a random taxi back home. He's more expensive than flagging a taxi down from the street, but less pricey than other taxi services that you schedule in advance, and the convenience along with having the same driver is definitely worth it. I bought all my food and cooked a large pot of soup (which I ate all week long, even sharing some with the security guards!). I made it everywhere I had to go on time, I got a deal on a cute sweater for 18 soles (about $6.50), and I'm fighting off a cold (which apparently is common when the weather changes).
Seeing the flipside reminds me that no matter how much I miss my life in Corona, I have alot to be grateful for here in Peru. And my next step is finding a way to share my gratefulness with others - there's such a huge need here, and it's time for me to add this to my routine.
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