So I am writing first to say thanks for the really nice goodbye
wishes and farewells and second to say I'm safe and happy in this new
life. I have jumped in with both feet despite all the fear. I have
been in Siles for a little more than 24 hours now and it's been non-stop
Spanish. Often I don't understand much but I try to hang in there and
make sense of the few words I do know. Also it's funny yet great that
yes or no questions end in a certain enunciation which prompts one to
answer yes or no. Then you must read their face to know which they want
you to say. Hmm, seems funnier in the moment but probably you know
what I'm talking about.
Anyway, this little town is hosting 'la ferria de San
Miguel' and it lasts for 4 days. There is a big white tent with a
stage, many vendors, and delicious food from the region. Today I saw
some real deal flamenco meaning there were about 20 gypsies dancing on
stage and a few old grandma's dancing below. Total immersion at it's
best! However many people warned me that this is a very special time
and that usually the town is calm and quiet. Of course I can believe
it. In just one view from the window you can see about 20,000 olive
trees covering the hillsides of this little town (pueblo). The land is
public and protected and I've been promised many chances to go hiking
(senderismo). Which I am going to need or else gain 20 pounds before I
leave.
What else? Tomorrow I will go to the school to see what
there is to see. The high school here is very small but is the main
school for students here in Siles. Many students from a nearby town are
bussed here daily. The specialty at the school is cooking. How much
more perfect could this be? Even the son of my host family wants to be a
chef and his mother is a great cook too. I told her I love to bake and
word got around quickly. Today I was asked by this sweet older woman
to teach her to bake a pie. I wished she asked about cookies but
nonetheless, I will try. 
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