The News is Out!

Tonight I told my parents about my plans. I have to admit, my heart was pounding pretty hard when I spoke the words, "I'm moving to Guatemala next year." I babbled on for quite a bit to allow them time to adjust to the notion, and also because I'm still so super excited to talk about it! I showed them some pictures online of Pana and Lake Atitlan, and they agreed it does look lovely. They didn't really have a lot of questions, though perhaps that was because I blurted out everything I had researched in one long soliloquy.
In the end, I don't think they were very surprised that I would come up with this sort of idea. All three of their daughters are very independent and wander-hungry. Gypsy blood, perhaps?

Fun Spanish

My excitement for Guatemala waxes and wanes. Money issues have set me back lately, and I'm reevaluating my planned departure date of late January. It might be February now, although I hope not.

In the meantime, I am following the advice I've seen on numerous blogs: learn as much Spanish as you can! I''ve been slacking on my Fluenz and Rosetta Stone lessons but have enjoyed scouring the Tubes of You for learning videos. My latest addictions are: Señor Jordan, Pepa Pig, and Toobys. Yes, the last two are kids shows! They're fun and colorful and make me smile while I learn.

Below is one of my favourite Toobys songs. I'm trying to memorize it so I can sing it all the time... and it annoys Bert! :D

 

P.S. Está nevando MUCHO ahora!

Why Would I Leave Canada?

I freaking love Canada!!
As part of my efforts to cherish every last moment in my home and native land, I went for a walk down by the waterfront this afternoon. I live on a very large, very clean, very beautiful freshwater lake in Ontario. I sat down on a rock near the shore and gazed out.

The gorgeous lake I live on now.

I listened to the birds, watched people strolling by on the path, and breathed in the crisp autumn air.
Then I had a thought. If I just put two triangles... right there...

Pretty much Lake Atitlan

Ta-dah! Now I'm in Guatemala, baby! Yeah! :)
I guess my love of water is one of the major reasons I chose Panajachel as my future home. I couldn't imagine not being near water!
I will be sad to leave my wonderful country, but I am excited to have a new adventure. Can't wait! Time is going so slowly right now. Hurry up, January!