Bow Wow at the Puppy Palace

I haven't written in my blog for a while. It has been a busy week of Spanish Classes, moving to a new place and socializing. Spanish is coming along slowly. I have a long way to go and a lifetime of learning.

Last weekend I spent time with Tom and Christine, both Americans. We toured the open air market. I bought a ton of fresh vegetables and bought several items to set-up my new kitchen and pantry.

The new place has a great courtyard and a nice room, but I'm not totally content. The kitchen is shared and very bright and open. But it is hard to get cooking space. There are 10-rooms here and many long term residents who like to cook. There are no students here, everyone knows Spanish well. They are young, loud and consume the kitchen. Need I say more. It is not a good fit. So I am looking for a new place at the beginning of April. This is the third location I have been in in 2-weeks. I hope to find a place I can settle into for 6-months. It doesn't need to be fancy, just clean, have a good feel, good light and an open space with a nice quiet courtyard. I haven't gotten use to the Widow Maker Showers. They are electric and produce small amounts of hot water. But I am trying to realize that 90% of the world's population does not have double headed showers with infinate supply of hot water!!!!! I'll adjust and make the best of it. I am very spoiled!

I went to a multi-cultural, non-denominational church last Sunday. The music was fantastic! A 7-piece pop band, with music both in Spanish and English, but mostly in Spanish. I believe the church is sponsored by Southern Baptists from Florida.

We had brunch at Casa Condessa. It was delicious and I highly recommend it as it much better than the usual breakfast they offer. We also had dinner at Pangea's, which offers a worldy infused menu. I had Steak Pasta with Gorgonzola. Yummy!!! I tried a bite of their avocado mashed potates and an avocado creme brulee. Both were out of this world. I know, sounds weird to have a cold Creme Brulee, but it was exquisite.

I cooked dinner a couple of times this week for friends and myself. I've been eating rice even for breakfast becuase I cooked so much. At least it is a flavorful Amarrillo (yellow) rice with fresh vegetables, ham and a litle cheese.

I've started walking rescued dogs from the street. The foundation is run by a Canadian and American women who have lived in Antigua for 20-years. The Aamerican is also a editor of "The Revue", a local tourist magazine. They are doing great things for a small group of lucky animals. Yesterday we let them run loose in a private finca. (farm) located very near to the city. That was fun for me too. They try to get them adopted out either locally or they go to shelters in the USA. I don't need to know Spanish to walk and talk to the dogs. Hehe I don't want to do this more than 3x times a week so I don't get too attached to the dogs. I do miss my kitties!

I just looked at a lovely home to share with a German lady and her son. It's beautiful, but I think it will be difficult for me to share a space with others. So I'll keep looking!

Antigua is more expensive than you'd think. Already my American friend who moved here six months ago says she is returning to the USA. She has depleted her savings already.