Hace mucho viento: 21 November 2007

The high today was 84, but the wind came in this afternoon and is shaking the house. I cannot believe we only have 2 more nights in this incredible home.

I am disappointed in the school, I have to admit. I think the school in Mendoza was so good that it spoiled me. The school charges us almost 200% of what they pay Gisela and that is leaving a bad taste in my mouth. So perhaps that is part of it.

Today, when we dropped off Paco there was no crying and we had time for a café and media luna before school. Delicious. After school, we ate chorizo (in Argentina it is more like a sausage and is not spicy) in the park.

The scenery in Bariloche is stunning for sure. I cannot believe from this kitchen window I am looking at snow-capped Andes, drinking a cold Rosé because it is so warm. I have been trying to figure out what this place reminded me of and I realized it was Alaska. The majesty, the dramatic vistas. To think that I have seen both is a true gift. But like Alaska there is this feeling of intrusion. When we are with Paco, we blend in better, but yesterday while shopping I had the backpack on, filled with stuff from school and stuff for Paco, and every person selling something on the street shouted, "Hey Señora" as I marched by. I remember seeing Juneau, Alaska and realizing when the cruise ships come in they took up over 1/4 of the town's population. I think this is closer to 50%. And you can pick us out. Boots, warm weather clothing (the Barilochinos (not sure if that is the word) are still confused by the sun this time of year.) backpack and sunglasses. Ah, that is me, a tourist for sure. On the other hand, there is something spectacular about the place. The majesty, the Swiss influence, there is a safety and richness that one cannot ignore. Steve and I were looking in a real estate window and found a home with a view for 200,000 USD. Wow.

Steve is so happy here, I hate to leave. He is getting my cold, and is exhausted (despite a 2 hr nap), but he stared at me and said, "I cannot believe I am here." Paco too, seems to love it. Though I think much of it is Gisela's house. Large and beautiful, full of life it makes us all relax.

Hmm, Maybe I could convince Steve to move. It would certainly improve my Spanish...