blar

After months of playing I find myself 100% inundated in school work. It is really a bummer. Nevertheless, I have a few exciting tales.

The protests: Last Monday was the 21 de Mayo, a national holiday in Chile commemerating the sinking of the battleship the Esmerelda during the War of the Pacific. Aside from glorifying military heroes of the past with fancy parades it is also a day for protests against the government. whoo hoo. Every year the president makes his or HER way to Valparaíso to make a speech akin to the state of the union, adressing promises for the upcoming year. Her visit is traditionally welcomed by masses of people waving communist party flags, union signs and other protest paraphanalia. I went along with some friends to check out the festitivites. Indeed, the protests were exciting, but seemed to lack any sense of direction. It seemed that most of the protesters were looking for a fight. They were ready for the tear gas and guanacos (water canons). However, I love seeing democracy in action and I respect the fact that Chileans are out making a scene.

Isla Negra
Last weekend we went to Isla Negra, the most of famous and picturesque of Pablo Neruda´s three homes. It is on the coast,a bit south of Valpo, and is a magnificant house in the shape of a boat. I don´t have much to say other than this was one sight that was worth it.

Running out Gas
Last night I went downstairs to turn on the gas to take a hot shower when my mother told me to enjoy the hot showers while they last. Aparently, Aregentina, Chile´s main source of natural gas, has halted the sale of gas to Chile. ahhh.

Okay, I am actually in a hurry...I´ll write more later!