Monday, January 26, 2009

All work and no play....

I´ve come to terms with the fact that I work 8 hours a day, 7 days a week.

I´m sure, however, that you´d rather not hear about my countless hours checking people in and out of the hostel, running up and down the stairs, answering phones and emails, and listening to the innumerable backpacker complaints. So there´s the scoopage on my very limited non-work life:

I´ve learned how to make homemade bread. And pizza.

And we still have never been out to a restaurant since moving here.

On my day off a week or so ago Nate and I went climbing at Cerro Ventana. Spectacular photos to come. (Or simply see his blog because he´s way more up-to-date than I am)

I take the colectivo to and from the center of Bariloche, with the priveledge of staring out at the most gorgeous Patagonian scenery.

We are very fortunate to have two houseguests from Seattle join us in our apartment. Ben and Lindsey have descended on Bariloche with their energy and climbing gear. It´s fun to have them, even though they keep me up way past my bedtime with their good company and hilariousness. I will pass along their blog info when I get my digital hands on it!

I took 3 steps on the slack line.

Hmmm... If I think of more, I´ll update. Until then I hope you all find yourselves in wonderful health and full of happiness! Cheers!

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Che, felicidades desde Bariloche!


Have I been neglecting my blog? Yes, perhaps. Have I forgotten about you all, my lovely readers? Not in your wildest dreams.

Let me first wish you all muy felices fiestas. Here the holiday season brings me long hours at the reception desk and limited hours in the summer sun, but I’m keeping busy and happy.

The reception at the hostel is a bumpy ride of ups and downs, stresses and giggles. I meet lots of travelers and get to practice my languages. It’s a job that keeps me on my toes, but one that I know is only temporary. But the other week I started full-time. That means 8-hour shifts 6 days a week. It’s a lot. I’m sure when the paycheck comes around I’ll be glad I put in those hours, but sometimes I have to remind myself to keep a smile on. The thing I love most about working in the center of town and living on km 7.3 is being able to hitchhike to work. Haciendo dedo, I meet so many awesome people and it’s way quicker (and cheaper) than taking the colectivo. Thumbs up!

The Conroys (and Larner-Lewis) descended on Bariloche. First Terri, Nicky, Jon and Sean arrived and we moved into the lake-side apartment meant for 8. This meant awesome food creations and many hours laughing and talking. After his first flight was canceled due to Rochester snow, Mike arrived a few days later than expected, but just in time for the food and festivities!

Although I was unable to attend most day-time excursions to El Bolsón, Cerro Camapanario and circuito chico, I was able to partake in dinner preparation and feasting. Nate and I pulled out our we-had-too-much-time-on-our-hands Argentinean menu and we all took turns popping the cork on the Malbecs. Thanks to all for lending their skills in the kitchen. Side note: Mike is the steak extraordinaire!


It was great having everyone here. Too bad I was behind a reception desk for most of it, but I hope you all had a fun and learning experience. See you for your next visit! No, I mean it! We have a futon this time!!!!!!


Happy New Years! To be honest I don’t know if I have any resolutions, I’m right were I want to be doing what I want to do. Maybe I’ll resolve to have more traveling in my life. Wink wink. Nate and I have started working on our Thai. No joke.