a little reverse culture shock...

I am still in California for a couple more weeks. After being in Argentina for almost five-years, I always experience some reverse culture shock when I visit the U.S. I continue to strive for a deeper sense of enculturation, home, and stability in Buenos Aires. I still have a loooooooong way to go, but every trip to the United States reminds me just a bit of the progress I have made. Here are a few of the funnier examples….

1) Greeting and Saying Goodbye at Gatherings – In Argentina it is customary to greet and say goodbye (with a kiss on the cheek) to everyone at a gathering (within reason). It always throws me off a little when people leave a party in the U.S. and don’t say goodbye. I also feel the urge to go around the room and greet everyone with a hug when I arrive or leave a gathering. My classes in San Francisco included daily evening prayer, which was closed with “passing the peace.” I found such a sense of home in Argentina with this worship tradition of saying goodbye to everyone in the room with a hug or handshake. I did catch myself leaning in for a kiss on the cheek. Thankfully, I resisted and didn’t break any social norms.

2) Late Night Dinner & Parties – I still am readjusting to dinner at 5:00 or 6:00. Someone in my class was talking about visiting Argentina and the parties and dancing that went until sunrise. I responded, “Oh, that makes me homesick for Buenos Aires.”

3) Pedestrians and the Right of Way – Oh yah, I have the right away in the U.S. I can’t tell you how many times I have stood at a crosswalk waiting for the cars to pass before crossing the street. Drivers stop and look at me like, “What are you waiting for?? GO!”

4) Summertime in La Boca – Talking about the hot humidity of summer, I recently shared about people in my neighborhood and all the activity that just happens outside on the sidewalk and street  (asado cooking, beer drinking, kiddy pools, guys with shirts off, etc.). I said , “Yah, I will know I have truly arrived when I feel comfortable walking down the street with my shirt off, perhaps with a bottle of beer.” I got some pretty strange and somewhat alarmed looks with that one. One guy responded, “Maybe that is a sign to leave?” I say…NAH!

What’s ahead in 2013…

Recently, I shared about my plans to begin a study program in spiritual direction this coming January. To read more, check out my November prayer letter…CLICK BELOW.
November Prayer Letter

What is Spiritual Direction? You ask? Well, for starters, the following description from Rev. Bill Haley, Director of Coracle, is a helpful summary….CLICK HERE.

News Alert...Spanish beginning to influence my English!

Recently, I have noticed a few phrases that I say in English a lot more than I ever used to before moving to Argentina. I guess the common use of these phrases in Spanish has impacted my English. Here are just a few examples...
- I imagine that…
- The truth is…
- Come!
- Tell me!

I will have really arrived when I start saying….
- I have cold or I have hot
- I have 42 years
- I call myself, David

I imagine that there are many others, but the truth is I can’t think of any right now. Spanish speakers, you know others?? Tell me!

Stay tuned!

Breath!

Well, I am about half way into the 31-Day Challenge. This morning I was starting to get down on myself for not following through with some of my goals. Busy days and cold weather have not inspired bike riding and outdoor activity. I have a lot on my mind these days as I prepare to head to the U.S. in a couple weeks. There is always something on my to do list to accomplish. I find myself preoccupied much of the time, which too often prevents me from being present in the now! This morning I started my day with two blog posts that, hopefully, will help reset my posture these days ahead.

Alan Fadling is sharing a new Classic Prayers series on his blog. This prayer from the eighth century helped start my day today....click here. I’m looking forward to following along with Alan and he shares more classic prayers in the days and weeks ahead. Thanks Alan!

Then I was catching up with the 31-Day Challenge blog. Jara shared this helpful breathing exercise...click here. I think I better keep this handy these days ahead. Thanks Jara!

In other news, World Cup fever is alive and well here in Argentina! Thursday was a big game day here! Argentines have been somewhat guarded going into the World Cup this time around. The national team did not play to well in the qualifying games and barely made it into the World Cup. But, Thursday’s big win really seems to have revived hope in Argentina’s prospects. It’s super fun to be here and experience World Cup excitement and passion. As Cora Forcatto says about her classmates, “Todos estan locos para el mundial!” That pretty much sums it up...everyone is crazy for the World Cup! Fun times!

Plus, to top off game day on Thursday….THE LAKE SHOW CONTINUES! Go Lakers!

Today I am off to see Toy Story 3D with the Forcatto girls.

¡che!

The more I learn Spanish, the more I am picking up on distinct Argentine phrases and slang. One word I noticed immediately was ‘che.’ My trusty gringo guide to understanding the Argentines, titled ¡Che Boludo!, defines ‘che’ as ‘hey!’ or ‘hey you!’ Basically, it’s like a combination of ‘dude/bro!’ & ‘hey!’ The guide also defines it as a meaningless interjection in whatever context.

Okay….so, I am slowly figuring out the appropriate and natural contexts to use ‘che’ as ‘hey' or 'bro’! But, I still use it sparely, so I don’t seem too much like a poser. For sure, the ‘meaningless interjection’ part will take awhile without looking like I am trying way too hard to speak Argentine.

Oh, and in case you were wondering….It is also understood that the word was not adopted from Argentine Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara, but in fact, the opposite. He received his nickname because Argentine’s frequent use of ‘che’ often distinguishes them from other Latin Americans.

in case anyone is still out there...

I’m still here! Once again I have lost my blogging groove…missing in action for a couple months! Here is my attempt to get in at least one blog post this month of June! I’m not even sure where to start. One highlight since I last posted was a visit from my mom and sister in May! It was so fun to share my life here with them and play tourist, taking in all the sights of Buenos Aires. We had a great time together, including spending Mother’s Day with mom. It has been a long time since both Donja and I have been together with our mom on Mother’s Day….little did we know it would happen in Buenos Aires. Thanks for visiting, mom and Donja!

The highlight of June was celebrating a big decade birthday….you all know the one. Let’s just say “quarenta” sounds older in Spanish, too! For my b-day weekend I got away to Mar del Plata, a beach city about 5-hours away from Buenos Aires. Even though it was winter and chilly, the sights, sounds, and smells of the ocean were refreshing! The following weekend the Forcattos surprised me with a party with Argentine friends and an album of meaningful notes, memories, and pictures. It was a great way to ring in a new decade of life! Thanks everyone for your emails, FB wall posts, and notes from across the miles!

Tomorrow (Sunday) I am headed to Uruguay for a “visa run.” Every six-months I need to renew my Argentina visa by leaving the country and reentering. Uruguay is just an hour boat ride across the Rio del Plata. I will combine the visa run and with some retreat time for a few days. Colonia is a quiet, sleepy little town on the river…A nice change of pace from big city life in Buenos Aires.

Well, this barely scratches the surface of news from here. But, it’s a start. I’ll try and be back soon! Nos vemos!

wha'sup with me?

I have been a little quiet on updates from life here in Buenos Aires since returning over a month ago. January was a great month getting back into the summer rhythm of life and ministry here. Summertime is a different pace around here. Lots of people are coming and going on vacation, while others staying in city take it a little slower, enjoying summertime sun and fun. Thankfully, the summer has not been too hot and humid (Yet! Summer isn’t over.). Here are just a few updates on the latest happenings.

• I begin my intensive four-week Spanish course on Monday. I took a placement test this past week and tested at an intermediate level (which seems a little generous, but I’ll take it). I am hopeful this course will be just what I need in language acquisition. I go 5 mornings a week for 3 hours and I plan to spend a few hours studying each day, as well. There are 14 students in each class from all over the world with different first languages. I’ll let you know the make-up of my class.
  

• Due to travel schedules, vacations, and other factors, I have been going to the train station (Retiro) to spend time with the youth by myself a lot these past several weeks. While this is not ideal and not something for the long-term, I think these times have solidified some of my relationships with our friends. At first they would always greet me and ask with some surprise, “solo?” And they still always ask, “Walter?” The groups have been a little smaller and low key, which has provided a more “tranquilo” environment to be with the kids and youth. One day a group of kids went through the list of about 7-8 of our staff and partners who regularly spend time with them, asking where they have been. I responded with explanations on who was where, etc.
  
  Please pray for the kids and youth, as our presence with them will be even less in February. Several staff and partners are still out of town, while Jeremiah and I will be focusing on more intensive language study. I plan to go to the station at least once a week to connect with the kids. In March we will start back up “Encuentros,” our twice a month overnight and full-day at the church with 4-6 of the youth.

• I’m excited! Visitors are coming, visitors are coming! Thanks to frequent flyer miles. My mom and sister will come in May for a visit. And some good friends from Omaha will visit in August. We also have some a few South American WMF friends coming to visit after Easter. It will be fun to share my life here with family and friends!
  

Well, that seems like enough for now. It is Saturday morning and the rest of the day is calling! Thanks for checking in! (If there is still anyone out there on my blogsphere?)

happy 2009!

Where did the time go?! Time with family and friends in California was sweet! Lots of fun and memories shared! Tomorrow I head back home to summertime in Buenos Aires. Looking forward to sweet reunions with community and friends there!

Hopefully, the new year will bring my blogging groove back!

sari bari blankets & bags now for sale online!

I have written about Sari Bari in Kolkata, India several times on my blog. Just wanted to pass on the link where you can now purchase these blankets and bags online. They always go fast!

From the website:
Sari Bari is a safe home where women, who have been exploited in the sex trade, can have their dignity restored and experience new life in the making.
Each of our products made from the Indian sari is marked with a woman's name, a woman who now has the opportunity to make a choice for freedom and new life.

For more info click here: http://www.saribari.com/

under construction...

Tonight I decided to switch it up and give the blog a new look. Kick off life here with a new template. Simple and easy, right? Opps! What I neglected to realize is all my sidebar links would disappear...so, the blog extreme makeover will be a work in progress. I'll work on getting them back up soon!

this & that

I'll lump some random updates together today! Feeling like I need to "lighten up" my blog a little these days! :)

1) Departure Update:
I am super close to meeting my financial support goals! I long ago exceeded my love and prayer support goals! The overwhelming support, care, encouragement, and prayers of family and friends continue to bless my life! I am now very close to reaching some financial goals before purchasing my ticket to Buenos Aires! I am hoping and praying I can get the green light by next Friday, February 15! I would love to be in Argentina by Palm Sunday and Easter Week! Seems like a meaningful season to begin sharing life and ministry there! But, ultimately, I trust God’s best timing. His timing hasn’t let me down yet…nor will it! Please pray for the Dean Family who will be a month ahead of me in Buenos Aires….they leave February 14.

2) Movies:
I seem to be on a bit of a movie streak this 2008! 1) Juno - The whole package…funny sweet, thoughtful, etc. Ellen Paige deserves the Oscar nomination. 2) The Kite Runner – As usual the book went deeper, but the movie still captured the story and made me cry. 3) U23D – A lot of this was filmed in Buneos Aires…amazing! If you are a U2 fan….see it! Most of us will never get so close to Bono and you feel like you are rocking out with the crowd on floor level! 4) There Will Be Blood – If the trailor for this one freaked you out, the movie is even more chilling. Not for everyone….I’m sure I missed some symbolism in the story. Daniel Day Lewis’ performance will stick with me for awhile (hopefully not in nightmares). 5) Rambo – True confession time! Not sure what I was thinking in seeing this record breaking body count. (Sorry Rich & Ben!) I guess the opportunity to hang out with a good friend I haven’t seen for awhile got the best of me. Even the nostalgic memories of “Ramboing” in high school on the "hill" and "gum grove" in Seal Beach in didn’t justify my decision.

3) Ebay:
I have one last supply of collectible diecast cars to sell. See here. This batch also included old Matchbox pocket catalogs from the 60’s & 70’s. One 1965 catalog sold for $45! Not bad! Fun to see what more I can squeeze out of this before I go! Plus, the extra cash ain’t bad. The postal workers keep asking when I am leaving (I am at the post office at least 2-3 times a week). The other day one woman asked what exactly I would be doing. I told her working with at risk kids on the streets with a mission and answered her good questions. She replied something like this, "Wow, I see you in a different light…I thought you were just some “floater” dude waiting to earn enough to leave on your next trip." I said, "Well, that's not too far off these past couple years...I'm a little of that too!" HA! Classic.

4) Flip Flops:
I rarely wear shoes! I go through at least two pairs of sturdy Reef sandals every year. That includes rotating them with my Brasilian Havaianas. Just got my new pair of Reef Fannings with church keys in today’s mail! If I’m lucky maybe they will get me through Christmas 2008…I’m thinking winters in Buneos Aires may force me to wear shoes a little more.

the storage unit

How can we already be in the second half of January? As always, I am amazed at how fast time continues to fly by!

This week my number one goal was to tackle my storage unit. Something hanging over my head for months! I have had my remaining furniture and stuff in a storage unit for the past two years as I traveled and discerned what was next. Now that I am headed to Argentina for three years, the time has come to empty out the storage unit! The last thing I want to do on my precious vacation time at home is clear out a storage unit. So now is the time!! Plus, I struggle with paying $60 a month to store my extra stuff, when many people around the world need that money to just survive. The words of Ghandi still challenge me…“Live simply, so that others may simply live.”

With the help of Craigslist I have sold my remaining few pieces of furniture. Why was it so hard to say goodbye to my dining table? :( Thanks to my parents and grandparents, I will have garage space for my remaining boxes! It is an interesting process to go through stuff and see just what I am attached to and not ready to give up. Although two years in storage does help with the detachment!

Today is all about my last remaining task….seven boxes of books! Hopefully, I can dwindle that stack down. And, with the leftovers, maybe half.com will prove to be a friend like eBay and craigslist!

my year career on eBay...

Little did I know a year ago I would become such an expert in eBay! When my uncle passed away this last spring he left behind a huge hobby and business collection of diecast cars, models, and anything racing! We’re talking an apartment and storage unit full! It was his lifetime hobby and he had so much fun with it! After picking out some favorites, our next reaction was what in the world will we do with these boxes and boxes of cars!? As my year and plans began to take shape to head overseas in 2008, my grandparents and parents were so gracious to give me a good portion of the collection to see what I could sell on eBay.

Little did I know the extent (and disposable income) of diehard car and racing collectors! Thanks to them, I was able to pay my health and car insurance and other expenses to get through 2007! It was fun watching the bidding wars for these cars go up to $20-200 a piece. I also am now a shipping expert (long live the Priority Mail flat rate envelope and boxes!) You know I was at the post office a lot if they recognize a new haircut. Just today the postal workers were asking when I was leaving for Argentina.

Anyway, as the eBay run winds down…here is one example of “you never know”! We found a box of odds and ends we set aside and forgot about from my uncle’s apartment. In it were some model plane decals. I almost tossed, but my better eBay sense told me to better make sure. Sure enough…another week of life for this eBay seller!

This one little sheet of decals warranted 12 bids alone! I didn't become a "Power Seller" for nothing. HA!

my college football season still has a heartbeat!

Yesterday my dad and I went to the Rose Bowl to see the UCLA-Cal game! After a fun UCLA upset, I am relieved that my last college football season in the U.S. for awhile still has a heartbeat (for at least another week anyway)!

home

I returned home this week after a great time in Romania and Canada! It was good to be with the WMF community in Galati, Romania. I then flew directly to Toronto to spend some time with my sister, bro-in-law, nieces, and nephew! It was a sweet time full of special memories! Now I am home plowing through my long to do list this month ahead, which includes downsizing and selling stuff in storage, selling more on ebay, lots and lots of reading, studying Spanish, preparing for Argentina.....and enjoying fall activities while I am home like college football, oktoberfest, pumpkin spice lattes, and some first-run television episodes (including The Office tonight!).

grace at night

My church in Seal Beach is kicking off a new Sunday evening service on September 23. I am looking forward to being a part of this worship gathering through the rest of the year before leaving for Argentina! For you fellow Grace'ers here is a blog with more details and updates....http://graceatnight.wordpress.com/