I'm going to try to do this-- to keep a blog. I can't promise anything, but I'll try my best to post observations and descriptions of my time here in Chile. So far, I'm still a little sleepy, so my perception isn't as sharp as it could be.

While driving the 17 km from the airport, I smiled at the sight of cows and was reminded of IHP when I saw slums partially hidden behind a poster reading the words, "Estamos construyendo Mombacho Urbano limpio." Quien lo esta construyendo?

I imagined that the city might actually be working with residents to improve the condition of their neighborhood, but I couldn't help but be skeptical because of the reputation of similar "city beautification" projects in other cities.

As we drew closer to the city, I was awed by the mountains that tower over it in nearly every direction like watchful guardians. Under their gaze, the streets fill with an orderly bustle. I find it less chaotic than what I remember of Buenos Aires, but then again, this is day one and I've seen maybe 1 1/2 streets total.

Our neighborhood is actually rather fabulous-- wide streets lined with tall trees. Amy met me with a wide smile and endless delightful conversation since then. We made our way to Oh! Salad for lunch, past the fresh flower stands and hippie-jewelry dealers on the sidewalk.

Amy is off to a meeting this afternoon, giving me a chance to check in with email and to acclimatize. My plan is to buy some groceries (and flowers), make dinner, and then catch up with Amy over a bottle wine before starting our work tomorrow.

I feel comfortable here, excited about actually interacting with the city and with people, and for getting to know the country. And from here I move onward…