Winter in Santiago

Posted on August 16, 2010 by j

Its winter in Chile and its cold! It dips in the 30s and gets up to the 50s. But on some days it will be freezing cold in the morning and get really hot during the day and dip back down at night. Layering has proven to be the best method to be prepared for any drastic weather change.

I had a great vacation in Puerto Rico and Houston. I am so grateful to have seen my family and friends, I missed them so much and I can’t wait to be with them again. Time fly’s by quickly, so I need to make the most of it!

When I got back to Chile I was not so pleasantly surprised to find my apartment in the midst of renovation. For two weeks we had no shower, toilet or kitchen (things I cannot live without). So I stayed with my roommates family. They were very kind, but the area where they live is not t he safest. His father was kind enough to meet me at the train station and walk with me home when I arrived late. Many times drug addicts asked for money and followed us to their home. But now, I am back at the apartment. Still no kitchen, but at least there is a bathroom. Everyday I have to sweep because of all the dust from the work being done, it’s so messy.

I’ve started school again and was immediately overwhelmed by the amount of work required for every class. I’ve asked to reduce my classes to three, I think it will be a possibility. I hope they can work it out, so that maybe I can have a life outside of my studies and the five minutes I get to breath and enjoy the country!

I am hoping to make a trip to Argentina soon and I am looking to plan when I can head to Peru. I am also looking forward to visiting my friend Crispulo in Vina del Mar to make a presentation to his university students. I hope to convey a message of hope and faith that hard work and dedication make all the difference in life (a lesson that I need to keep conscious in my mind too!)

In September Chile will be celebrating its bicentennial. I am definitely looking forward to all the events and celebrations (and eating some Chilean empanadas!).

Here are some photos for y’all to enjoy. . .

View from Universidad Catolica campus at San Joaquin