Tacna is different from Pisco in many ways. Tacna is more like Arizona and Phoenix because it is more of a desert. It is very dry and is full of sand. Perhaps the greatest change has been the transition from staying with each other in a hostel to living with a family. The family is more than gracious to take you in and attempts to make it as close to home as possible for you. In my own case I have my own room which undoubtably been sacraficed for my sake, and the rest of the family shares a room with eachother and the last room is their office. Immediately when I arrived they questioned me on what I liked and asked me about America, also they shared about themselves and who they were. I quickely found out I would be their primarily source for knowledge about what America was like, which in one sense scared me cause I knew my Spanish would compromise me in certain areas, but I think I managed relatively well. It was awkward at first being in a different country, in another family´s house and they speak a different language than you. Now after a couple of days it has gotten better though and a sort of routine has been established. Wake up, breakfast, go to work, return home, shower, eat dinner then afterward play futbol with neighborhood kids for an hour or more. Once you return home talk for a while with the family which can still be difficult at times and then go to sleep and repeat over again. Although with tomorrow being Sunday which means a day off of work there will sure to be a slightly different plan for the day. Whatever it is I am going into it optimistically and hopeful to further my relationship with the family and gain all I can from the experience and the others to come.
Adjusting to Life with the Families by Blake Senn
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Hi, Blake! I'm glad you are having such an incredible experience. You and your buddies are such amazing ambassadors for your school and your country. You are there to work and share your talents. It's very insightful that you recognize that your host family is making some sacrifices, too, to make you welcome and comfortable. I'm so proud of all of you! Hugs - Liz
Hi Blake,
Glad to hear you are adjusting to life with your host family and appreciate the sacrifice they are making to ensure you're comfortable. It is great to hear they are so interested in the US, and we're sure you guys are being great ambassadors. Don't worry about the language barrier too much, acting with integrity, leading by example and being a gracious guest will be the best impression of the USA you can leave behind. In other words, just be yourself and you can't go wrong. Thanks for getting on the blog, please don't wait so long to do it again. We love hearing from you. Lots of love, Mom and Dad
Blake,
You guys work too hard. It's interesting to read of your days-and such. Really though, your efforts on the building and in getting to know the families, I'm certain, are well received. This as you all have been saying, will be memories for a long time.
Best Wishes for a great rest of the trip.
Much Love,
Uncle Perry and Aunt Kristy