For a few days I had been feeling exremely sick, and Saturday morning seemed to be the peak of it. I felt so sick, and after a Skype comversation with my mom I was really upset and frustrated at how I was feeling. The mom, Addy, came to check on me, gave me a huge hug, and told me everything was going to be ok and that they would help in any way they could. That little gesture made me feel better in knowing there would be someone to take care of me if my own parents couldn't. That afternoon we went out for lunch to what I thought would be a restaurant, but ended up being a 'Quince Años' party. When a girl in Mexico turns 15 she is given a huge party where all of her friends and family are invited. It was magnificent. We drove out to the countryside where there was a beautiful gazebo like building completely decorated in green (which is what I assume to be the birthday girls favorite colour). The party was exactly what I needed to feel better. The family and I had a great few hours eating, drinking and talking.
That night the son, Enrique and his girlfriend Ave threw a party at the house for their friends, and I invited the other four girls from Dalhousie to join. It was so relaxed but so enjoyable. The 5 of us Canadians were able to meet many Mexicans our age and talk about music, Campeche, Canada, food, drinks, etc. I know I had a wonderful time, and I'm sure the others in attendence did as well.
Sunday morning I was feeling much better, especially when I went downstairs and Addy was making pancakes for breakfast. Hailey, the daughter, and I were eating some delicous pancakes when I started telling her how when I was little my favorite type of pancakes were the small ones that are made when you accidenatlly spill mix in the pan. I liked them so much that I would get my mom to intentionally make accidents pouring so I could have my mini pancakes. Before I knew it, Addy had put a mini pancake on my plate. It was so cute, and again made me feel so at home in their house that they have graciously opened to me.
That afternoon I went to two church's with the family. The first, a traditional Sunday morning service. The second, a tradition that happens once a year at this time, where Catholics go to a designated church and kiss Negro Cristo. I didn't quiet understand what was happening, but this tradition is huge in Campeche and I felt honoured to be apart of it! That night Ave and I went for a long drive/walk around Campeche. We walked around El Centre (the old walled city), bought some traditional Campechano sweets, and drove around while Ave pointed out buildings and historical facts that I need to know.
On Monday, Maddy, Alysse and I went to the university's mens volleyball practice. It's open to whoever wants to come play volleyball; so the three of us went and enjoyed playing beach volleyball, and meeting some more university students. Day to day life in Campeche is very laid-back and easy going. I have a siesta everyday (mid-day nap), which I don't know how I'm ever going to live without when I come back to Canada! Life here is great and beautiful.
Malecon at sunset...
Parque at night...
Me and Ave...
Me and Alysse at volleyball practice...
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