This is the 5th Independence Day I've celebrated with my husband since we've been married and I think this is the third time we've missed the "Grito." That tricky time change thing between Mexico City and Longmont, Colorado! But we are, as usual, watching the festivities; the insane fireworks display at the Zocolo and all the happy people waving Mexican flags as Galavision pans from one city's celebration to another.
This is Mexican Independence Day. It begins with "El Grito de Independencia" (the Independence Cry) at 11:00Pm on September 15. I have to say it's nice to have an official start to the holiday. The Fourth of July seems fairly anti-climatic in comparison. Each city's mayor, or Governor of each state and of course in "Mexico" (Mexico City is just called Mexico, confusing yes!) the president recites "the Grito" to begin the festivities. The Grito celebrates Father Miguel Hidalgo's words to his village of Dolores calling them to fight for freedom. The Grito reads (in English for all you gringos):
"My Children: A new dispensation comes to us today, Will you receive it? Will you free yourselves? Will you recover the lands stolen three hundred years ago by your forefathers, the hated Spaniards? We must act at once...Will you defend your religion and your rights as true patriots? Long live our lady of Guadalupe? Death to bad government! Death to the Gachupines!"
This is followed by listing out the patriots with the crowd shouting "Viva" after each name.
The finale ends in a round of
"Viva Mexico," President,
"Viva!" Crowd,
"Viva Mexico" President
"Viva!" Crowd
"Viva Mexico!" President
"Viva!" Crowd
Followed by the ringing of the Independence day bell.
Followed by a lot of fireworks!
The real "grito" 200 years ago marked a 10 year war of independence for Mexico. This is not the day that Mexico became an independent state, but rather the day it became one in the hearts and minds of Mexicans.
This year is especially important because it marks the 200th anniversary from when Hidalgo spoke those very important words.
So tonight, throughout the night, Mexicans will celebrate with dancing, concerts, music, fiestas, and probably a bit of tequila.
It's a proud day to be Mexican. Someday I'll experience the real thing and actually be able to
feel the spirit of the day. But until then I'm going to have to settle for my husbands excitement and Galavision!
VIVA MEXICO
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
On being the only one
Have you ever been the only one? You are standing at a party and you look around no one looks like you and no one talks like you and you realize you are the only one? I mean really the "only one." I've been the "only one" many times in my life. Mostly by choice. For some reason I have this internal desire to be the "only one."
This past weekend we (my husband, son and I) went to a birthday party for a friends daughter. As I sat there listening to conversations around me it dawned on me that I was the only white, English speaking, native born American there. I think the obvious feeling would have been to feel alone, nervous, uneasy. But I wasn't and actually never have felt that. Instead I feel privileged, energized and intrigued. I have a very special place, an outsider invited into another realm. A traveler that hasn't left town. I can participate and observe all at the same time. It's a opportunity that only one who can walk that fine line of two cultures can experience.
I speak Spanish. I'm married to a Mexican, the closest relationship one can have by choice. I eat beans for breakfast. I put lime on my soup. I watch telenovelas (yes I admit I've been watching "Hasta Que el Dinero no Se Pare"). I rout for Mexico in the World Cup. And someday I'll even have a Mexican Passport. But I'll never fully be Mexican because...
Every time I meet someone new they always ask me, "hablas espanol?" with a doubtful look. I don't look the part. And even after I convince people that I indeed hablo espanol, conversation is still limited. I know they are thinking to themselves "what do I talk to this Gringa about?" And I, knowing full well that my Spanish is just fine, always feel like if I talk to much they are going to find fault with my Spanish and really dismiss me as a poser. So I, a very outgoing person, withdraw, thus reinforcing my outsider status. A vicious cycle.
But this weekend I came to a positive realization about this. I don't know that I want to ever fully be. It was fun to be the "only one." I like the anonymity it gives. I like the observations I can make. I like the freedom to step outside of the moment and reflect.
My husband has been playing the part of the "only one" ever since we moved to Colorado. When he started his job he was the only Mexican working on a staff of 160+ people. He has been able to give me insights into my culture that I would never have noticed on my own.
I think together we are creating our own culture. A culture of the middle realm, where Spanish and English intermingle, where brown and white make a beautiful shade of tan and love holds lives from both sides of the border together.
This past weekend we (my husband, son and I) went to a birthday party for a friends daughter. As I sat there listening to conversations around me it dawned on me that I was the only white, English speaking, native born American there. I think the obvious feeling would have been to feel alone, nervous, uneasy. But I wasn't and actually never have felt that. Instead I feel privileged, energized and intrigued. I have a very special place, an outsider invited into another realm. A traveler that hasn't left town. I can participate and observe all at the same time. It's a opportunity that only one who can walk that fine line of two cultures can experience.
I speak Spanish. I'm married to a Mexican, the closest relationship one can have by choice. I eat beans for breakfast. I put lime on my soup. I watch telenovelas (yes I admit I've been watching "Hasta Que el Dinero no Se Pare"). I rout for Mexico in the World Cup. And someday I'll even have a Mexican Passport. But I'll never fully be Mexican because...
Every time I meet someone new they always ask me, "hablas espanol?" with a doubtful look. I don't look the part. And even after I convince people that I indeed hablo espanol, conversation is still limited. I know they are thinking to themselves "what do I talk to this Gringa about?" And I, knowing full well that my Spanish is just fine, always feel like if I talk to much they are going to find fault with my Spanish and really dismiss me as a poser. So I, a very outgoing person, withdraw, thus reinforcing my outsider status. A vicious cycle.
But this weekend I came to a positive realization about this. I don't know that I want to ever fully be. It was fun to be the "only one." I like the anonymity it gives. I like the observations I can make. I like the freedom to step outside of the moment and reflect.
My husband has been playing the part of the "only one" ever since we moved to Colorado. When he started his job he was the only Mexican working on a staff of 160+ people. He has been able to give me insights into my culture that I would never have noticed on my own.
I think together we are creating our own culture. A culture of the middle realm, where Spanish and English intermingle, where brown and white make a beautiful shade of tan and love holds lives from both sides of the border together.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
On Futbol
My husband is leaving me. It happened once before, right after we were married. We were newlyweds just back from our honeymoon. We moved into our new apartment in Tucson and about a week later he left. He was up at all hours of the night. I had been replaced. About a month later he came back. I forgave him for his temporary insanity and things have been great for the last 4 years. But tomorrow I'll be single again.
Tomorrow Mexico plays the first game of the entire World Cup against South Africa (the host county if you really don't follow soccer). My husband is taking off work and going over to a friends house to watch the game live at 8 AM on a giant screen TV. Even if the game was at 3AM he would still be doing this. My husband is obsessed with approximately 2 hobbies, Futbol (soccer) and music, in that order. To call them hobbies makes it sound, well like a Hobie. They aren't really hobbies for him, more like the definitions of his life. He honestly could listen to ESPN Deportes or Futbol Picante 24 hours a day 7 days a week and not bore even for a second. Right now he is watching the pre-cup show. Juanes (who is supporting Mexico in the World Cup, because Colombia didn't earn itself a spot) is playing a pre-cup concert and I just had to tell him to calm down because he came out with a Mexican flag and my husband flipped out. I had to remind him that our son was sleeping and he better not wake him. So basically this concert is combining two of his favorite things in life, futbol and music.
Four years ago as newlyweds I was the dutiful new wife and tried to care about this obsession of his. I'm not sure if out of love for my husband or because I had absolutely no idea what I was getting into. I taped every game for him (pre-DVR days) and left him to scream and shout all he wanted. I even learned how the tournament was set up, some of the rules of the game and which teams had a decent chance and who sucked. I brought my book and sat with him on the couch while he watched every game aired on our non-cable TV.
This go round is different. For one I'm not the dutiful newlywed. I'm a seasoned (well 4 years at least) wife who knows that it might be best for our marriage to just let him have his month. Plus with a 10 month old, when do I have time to sit and read a book?
I'll try and keep you all posted about the madness that is consuming this house hold and I'll also try to keep my sanity among it all. For now I have to say, VIVA MEXICO!
Tomorrow Mexico plays the first game of the entire World Cup against South Africa (the host county if you really don't follow soccer). My husband is taking off work and going over to a friends house to watch the game live at 8 AM on a giant screen TV. Even if the game was at 3AM he would still be doing this. My husband is obsessed with approximately 2 hobbies, Futbol (soccer) and music, in that order. To call them hobbies makes it sound, well like a Hobie. They aren't really hobbies for him, more like the definitions of his life. He honestly could listen to ESPN Deportes or Futbol Picante 24 hours a day 7 days a week and not bore even for a second. Right now he is watching the pre-cup show. Juanes (who is supporting Mexico in the World Cup, because Colombia didn't earn itself a spot) is playing a pre-cup concert and I just had to tell him to calm down because he came out with a Mexican flag and my husband flipped out. I had to remind him that our son was sleeping and he better not wake him. So basically this concert is combining two of his favorite things in life, futbol and music.
Four years ago as newlyweds I was the dutiful new wife and tried to care about this obsession of his. I'm not sure if out of love for my husband or because I had absolutely no idea what I was getting into. I taped every game for him (pre-DVR days) and left him to scream and shout all he wanted. I even learned how the tournament was set up, some of the rules of the game and which teams had a decent chance and who sucked. I brought my book and sat with him on the couch while he watched every game aired on our non-cable TV.
This go round is different. For one I'm not the dutiful newlywed. I'm a seasoned (well 4 years at least) wife who knows that it might be best for our marriage to just let him have his month. Plus with a 10 month old, when do I have time to sit and read a book?
I'll try and keep you all posted about the madness that is consuming this house hold and I'll also try to keep my sanity among it all. For now I have to say, VIVA MEXICO!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
On Dinner
So I made Kebabs the other day, Middle Eastern style with hummus and pita bread. As I'm putting the food out on the table, my MIL somehow mysteriously added a dish of frijoles, salsa and corn tortillas to the mix. I say mysteriously because I really don't remember seeing her cooking and more importantly since when did salsa go with hummus? The first time she did this I have to say I was a offended. I had made Indian, Chicken Tikka Masala with Naan and lentils and suddenly there was a dish of frijoles, corn tortillas and salsa on the table. My MIL proceeded to top her chicken masala with salsa and scoop it up with a tortilla. I had to ask myself, what did I do wrong? I know i'm not the best cook in the world (ok that's not even close) I know I'm not a good cook, (that's better) but still did it taste that bad? I stewed about it for a few weeks until my husband made sushi and chicken fried rice one night for dinner. Suddenly as we are sitting down to eat out comes the corn tortillas, frijoles and salsa. Ahhhhh... I started to see a pattern. Dinner, no matter what you are having, is not complete without frijoles, tortillas and salsa.
I'm not sure if this is really true for all of Mexico or all Mexicans but food in Mexico seems to be fairly homogeneous. Aside from the occasional hamburger, pizza and of course Chinese (those Chinese have really found a place in world in terms of food. Even in the smallest of towns there is always a Chinese restaurant) Mexicans generally seem to eat a fairly homogeneous diet of Mexican food. I went to college in LA and am used to a variety of different foods. But I suppose just like language food isn't stagnant either. There is a Mexican Sushi restaurant in Tucson. The wife is Mexican and the husband Japanese. You can order tacos followed by chicken tempura and green tea fried ice cream. Or another fusion favorite of mine was in Azusa. There was a Thai Taco stand. You could order a Pad Thai or a Burrito from the same small take out restaurant.
So maybe my MIL is onto something, creating new flavors and cuisines. Or more likely dinner just isn't dinner without frijoles, salsa and tortillas!
I'm not sure if this is really true for all of Mexico or all Mexicans but food in Mexico seems to be fairly homogeneous. Aside from the occasional hamburger, pizza and of course Chinese (those Chinese have really found a place in world in terms of food. Even in the smallest of towns there is always a Chinese restaurant) Mexicans generally seem to eat a fairly homogeneous diet of Mexican food. I went to college in LA and am used to a variety of different foods. But I suppose just like language food isn't stagnant either. There is a Mexican Sushi restaurant in Tucson. The wife is Mexican and the husband Japanese. You can order tacos followed by chicken tempura and green tea fried ice cream. Or another fusion favorite of mine was in Azusa. There was a Thai Taco stand. You could order a Pad Thai or a Burrito from the same small take out restaurant.
So maybe my MIL is onto something, creating new flavors and cuisines. Or more likely dinner just isn't dinner without frijoles, salsa and tortillas!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
On 10 de Mayo or Mother's Day
Mother's day in Mexico is the 10th of May. I rather prefer the second Sunday in May idea, Sundays are a good day for family, but either works. In fact it just occurred to me, I think I should celebrate both. I'm declaring Mother's day for our house be today and tomorrow :)
I want to dedicate this blog to my mother-in-law. Why not to my mother, you might ask? Well this is supposed to be about becoming Mexican and my mom is definitely not Mexican. She is however my best friend and I will be lucky to be even half as good of a mother as she is.
But onto my Mother-in-law. I am blessed. I realize that typically mother-in-laws or suegras and daughter-in-laws or nueras don't usually get along. There's even been a movie "Monster-in-law" to dramatize this usually estranged relationship. But as I said I am blessed.
I have known my suegra for 18 years now. I met her long before my husband and I were even thinking of each other. But it's been within the last year that I've really gotten to know her. There are several words that come to mind when I think of my suegra, Ma de Rosario Viesca Davila Gallegos.
Strong- along with being a recent breast cancer survivor she has to be one of the strongest women I've ever met. When she went into labor with my husband she walked herself to the hospital. She didn't complain at all through the delivery of my cuanda (sister-in-law) and when asked by others in the hospital, she simple said "Why? It's not going to change anything?".
Gracious- I have watched her over the years deal with all kinds of people in all kinds of situations. She is kind and gracious to everyone. On trips to Mexico if families weren't able to host some of the youth she would simply pull out more sleeping bags and take everyone. Then she would get up in the morning and start cooking pancakas (pancakes- another Spanglish word).
Hard working- she never stops. I had to tell her yesterday that she was not allowed to cook, clean, wash, or launder anything today. That today was Mother's day and it was her day to rest. When my son came suddenly 2 and half months early this last August she was on a plane the very next day. She swept into our house and for two months while we dealt with the difficulties of having our son in the NICU she cooked, cleaned, laundered and even made my bed. I couldn't have asked for more.
A Domestic Goddess- is there anything this woman can't do? She cuts my hair for Pete's sake!
A Respected Voice- While my father-in-law is the Pastor, his ministry would not have been complete without my suegra. When she gives advice to families, they listen. When they are in need, she helps. She's been the glue that has held congregations together.
Finally, as most of you know, she's a Top Chef. My cunada and I were shopping together the other day and I went to buy a can of soup. She looked at it and said "I've never had soup from a can." Everything my suegra makes is homemade and seriously delicious. She can make lentil soup tasty.
So, although this is all in English and my cuanda is going to have to translate if for her, Rosario you are loved and appreciated. Happy Mother's Day.
I want to dedicate this blog to my mother-in-law. Why not to my mother, you might ask? Well this is supposed to be about becoming Mexican and my mom is definitely not Mexican. She is however my best friend and I will be lucky to be even half as good of a mother as she is.
But onto my Mother-in-law. I am blessed. I realize that typically mother-in-laws or suegras and daughter-in-laws or nueras don't usually get along. There's even been a movie "Monster-in-law" to dramatize this usually estranged relationship. But as I said I am blessed.
I have known my suegra for 18 years now. I met her long before my husband and I were even thinking of each other. But it's been within the last year that I've really gotten to know her. There are several words that come to mind when I think of my suegra, Ma de Rosario Viesca Davila Gallegos.
Strong- along with being a recent breast cancer survivor she has to be one of the strongest women I've ever met. When she went into labor with my husband she walked herself to the hospital. She didn't complain at all through the delivery of my cuanda (sister-in-law) and when asked by others in the hospital, she simple said "Why? It's not going to change anything?".
Gracious- I have watched her over the years deal with all kinds of people in all kinds of situations. She is kind and gracious to everyone. On trips to Mexico if families weren't able to host some of the youth she would simply pull out more sleeping bags and take everyone. Then she would get up in the morning and start cooking pancakas (pancakes- another Spanglish word).
Hard working- she never stops. I had to tell her yesterday that she was not allowed to cook, clean, wash, or launder anything today. That today was Mother's day and it was her day to rest. When my son came suddenly 2 and half months early this last August she was on a plane the very next day. She swept into our house and for two months while we dealt with the difficulties of having our son in the NICU she cooked, cleaned, laundered and even made my bed. I couldn't have asked for more.
A Domestic Goddess- is there anything this woman can't do? She cuts my hair for Pete's sake!
A Respected Voice- While my father-in-law is the Pastor, his ministry would not have been complete without my suegra. When she gives advice to families, they listen. When they are in need, she helps. She's been the glue that has held congregations together.
Finally, as most of you know, she's a Top Chef. My cunada and I were shopping together the other day and I went to buy a can of soup. She looked at it and said "I've never had soup from a can." Everything my suegra makes is homemade and seriously delicious. She can make lentil soup tasty.
So, although this is all in English and my cuanda is going to have to translate if for her, Rosario you are loved and appreciated. Happy Mother's Day.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
On Cinco de Mayo
I have a theory, there aren't any American drinking holidays between New Year's Eve and the Fourth of July. President's day, MLK day and Easter just don't lend themselves to wild college parties. So Americans had to go out and find some. St. Patrick's day seemed a good fit, a chance to drink green beer in March. But it was too long of a stretch between March 17 and July 4. Hum... what to do?... Good thing Mexicans have an obscure holiday in May. Cinco de Mayo fit the criteria perfectly. A holiday that seemed worthy of a party, but not a holiday that anyone knew anything about, much like St. Patricks day. So although most of the people packing the Mexican restaurants tomorrow won't really know what they are celebrating, there is one thing they know for sure, bottoms up!
To set the record straight, Cinco de Mayo is NOT Mexican Independence day and it isn't really celebrated in Mexico. Kids get the day off school, that's about it. No drink specials, no crazy parties, no parades, no fairs, no dance concerts. Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of a battle between a small Mexican army that defeated a larger more powerful french army in their advance toward the capital in 1862. Mexico had just gained Independence from Spain in 1821 after a long struggle. Mexico was in debt and it only got worse during the Yankee Invasion (Mexicans name for the Mexican-American war) and a civil war. After Mexico stopped paying their debt to France, they decided that they would just takeover. France sent an army, the Mexicans defeated them on Cinco de Mayo and Mexico reveled in it's victory for about a year. Then France sent more troops and they eventually lost the war and France occupied Mexico for a few years. Eventually Mexico did oust the French but not on Cinco de Mayo.
Mexican Independence day is September 16. It marks the start of the fight for independence in Mexico. There are fantastic celebrations all over Mexico starting on September 15 as the Grito de Independencia (Cry of Independence) is announced by the president at the Zocalo at 11PM, just as Hidalgo did from the little church in 1810. Followed by the response of the people, VIVA MEXICO!
So, although Cinco de Mayo really isn't that big of a holiday, let's celebrate anyway. Let's celebrate and appreciate everything Mexican. With everything going on surrounding immigration, let's remember and appreciate our neighbors to the south and our neighbors next door. VIVA MEXICO!
To set the record straight, Cinco de Mayo is NOT Mexican Independence day and it isn't really celebrated in Mexico. Kids get the day off school, that's about it. No drink specials, no crazy parties, no parades, no fairs, no dance concerts. Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of a battle between a small Mexican army that defeated a larger more powerful french army in their advance toward the capital in 1862. Mexico had just gained Independence from Spain in 1821 after a long struggle. Mexico was in debt and it only got worse during the Yankee Invasion (Mexicans name for the Mexican-American war) and a civil war. After Mexico stopped paying their debt to France, they decided that they would just takeover. France sent an army, the Mexicans defeated them on Cinco de Mayo and Mexico reveled in it's victory for about a year. Then France sent more troops and they eventually lost the war and France occupied Mexico for a few years. Eventually Mexico did oust the French but not on Cinco de Mayo.
Mexican Independence day is September 16. It marks the start of the fight for independence in Mexico. There are fantastic celebrations all over Mexico starting on September 15 as the Grito de Independencia (Cry of Independence) is announced by the president at the Zocalo at 11PM, just as Hidalgo did from the little church in 1810. Followed by the response of the people, VIVA MEXICO!
So, although Cinco de Mayo really isn't that big of a holiday, let's celebrate anyway. Let's celebrate and appreciate everything Mexican. With everything going on surrounding immigration, let's remember and appreciate our neighbors to the south and our neighbors next door. VIVA MEXICO!
Monday, April 26, 2010
On Nicknames
I'm not sure if this is just part of my husband's world or if this really extends to all Mexicans, but I don't really know my husband's friends names. What I do know instead are their nicknames. It seems that everyone has one and some aren't flattering.
Take my husband for example. His real name is Jesus but his nickname is Chuy. How did Chuy come out of Jesus? If you ask him, he will say it's because his name is Jesus Emanuel. If he was Jesus Manuel he would be called Chema. Oh, that cleared it all up! Clear as mud, thanks honey.
There are other common nicknames that don't seem to have any relation to the real name.
Francisco becomes Kiko or Paco or Pancho
Jose becomes Pepe
Rodolfo-Pop0
Ok I guess we have a few of those as well. One might not immediately derive Bill from William or Betsy from Elizabeth if they were learning English as a second language.
But then there are the nicknames based on someones appearance. Close circles of friends might have funny nicknames for each other, but these names are not generally shared and used as the standard.
For example my husband's soccer friend is called El Negro, the black one. I don't even know El Negro's real name. This is how widespread and understood his nickname is. I'm not sure if my husband even knows his real name. When El Negro's family was here the other day, I even heard his wife call him that. Given this countries history and struggle for civil rights, I'm going to guess no one would really venture to call anyone, Hey Blackie! (Just a side note here he's not even black!)
So I've compiled a list (with the help of my husband) of some nicknames you just wouldn't hear used in the White American vernacular.
Nicknames to describe the color of your skin
El Guero- the white one, Whitie
El Negro- the Black one, Blackie
El Moreno- the Brown one, Brownie
Nicknames to describe other features
Tofeo- trompudo y feo, big ugly trumpet (mouth)
Gordita- Little Fat one, (Not to be confused with Gorda- just fat which would be considered insulting)
El Patotas- Big Foot
Cepe- cejas de perro, eyebrows of a dog
el foco de mercado- supermarket lights, because the person had a lot of zits
el bocho- Volkswagen beetle, because the person had big ears
pelon- baldy
Pope- After Popi, because someone had big arms
I've yet to find what is really embarrassing in Mexican culture. Being called El Foco and drawing attention to the fact that someone has really bad acne seems embarrassing to me. But in my experience Mexicans are extremely good at making light of life and light of themselves. My husband will be the first to tell you "Mexican jokes." He loves them, thinks they are hilarious. Instead of getting offended he just laughs. What a great way to go about life, no?
Take my husband for example. His real name is Jesus but his nickname is Chuy. How did Chuy come out of Jesus? If you ask him, he will say it's because his name is Jesus Emanuel. If he was Jesus Manuel he would be called Chema. Oh, that cleared it all up! Clear as mud, thanks honey.
There are other common nicknames that don't seem to have any relation to the real name.
Francisco becomes Kiko or Paco or Pancho
Jose becomes Pepe
Rodolfo-Pop0
Ok I guess we have a few of those as well. One might not immediately derive Bill from William or Betsy from Elizabeth if they were learning English as a second language.
But then there are the nicknames based on someones appearance. Close circles of friends might have funny nicknames for each other, but these names are not generally shared and used as the standard.
For example my husband's soccer friend is called El Negro, the black one. I don't even know El Negro's real name. This is how widespread and understood his nickname is. I'm not sure if my husband even knows his real name. When El Negro's family was here the other day, I even heard his wife call him that. Given this countries history and struggle for civil rights, I'm going to guess no one would really venture to call anyone, Hey Blackie! (Just a side note here he's not even black!)
So I've compiled a list (with the help of my husband) of some nicknames you just wouldn't hear used in the White American vernacular.
Nicknames to describe the color of your skin
El Guero- the white one, Whitie
El Negro- the Black one, Blackie
El Moreno- the Brown one, Brownie
Nicknames to describe other features
Tofeo- trompudo y feo, big ugly trumpet (mouth)
Gordita- Little Fat one, (Not to be confused with Gorda- just fat which would be considered insulting)
El Patotas- Big Foot
Cepe- cejas de perro, eyebrows of a dog
el foco de mercado- supermarket lights, because the person had a lot of zits
el bocho- Volkswagen beetle, because the person had big ears
pelon- baldy
Pope- After Popi, because someone had big arms
I've yet to find what is really embarrassing in Mexican culture. Being called El Foco and drawing attention to the fact that someone has really bad acne seems embarrassing to me. But in my experience Mexicans are extremely good at making light of life and light of themselves. My husband will be the first to tell you "Mexican jokes." He loves them, thinks they are hilarious. Instead of getting offended he just laughs. What a great way to go about life, no?
Saturday, April 24, 2010
On Spanglish
There are those who would like a language to stay stagnant, frozen in historical time, bound up by rules and grammar. But language is a living organism. It breaths, grows, adapts and changes as it follows the life of it's speakers. Some might argue that Spanish and English should remain separate entities. But if you live in my house you will find that they co-exist quit nicely.
Today I was telling my husband what to get my son out for dinner and I caught (which doesn't usually happen) the crazy sentence that was coming out of my mouth. Los peas, que estan en el frig son good. Really did I just say that?
In my house we speak Spanglish. Generally my husband speaks Spanish and I English, or so at least I think I am. For example, my husband, my mom and I were all on our way to Home Depot the other day. My husband and I were talking about what we needed. When we got into the store my husband went off in his own direction and I turned to my mom and said, "what was it that we needed?"
"You are asking me?" She said.
"Yah, we were just talking about it in car." Still not understanding why she wasn't helping.
"You do realize that whole conversation was in Spanish, right?" she said.
Hum... clearly I didn't!
I love that I have the ability to switch back and forth between languages. I love the looks I get when I answer my phone in the middle of Target in Spanish. I love the options that open up for music, movies and TV because it doesn't matter if it's in English or Spanish. More importantly I love that I have been able to meet so many more people in this world all because I speak another language. There really is something to being bi-lingual.
There are some very fun Spanglish words I thought I would share with you. I hope you enjoy!
Googlear - to google someone
Molear- to go to the mall
Parkeate- to park (this one is so entwined in Border Spanish that I do believe people truely think this is an actually Spanish word)
pusheme- push me
watchale- watch this
un ridete- a ride
esmoking- tux
yonque- junk yard (pronounced like junky)
boiler- water heater
me frekea- I'm freaked out
troca- truck
nerdo- nerd
If I come across any new and good ones I'll be sure to add them. Until them I'll make sure to check that my blog is written in English and I haven't empece a escribir en Espanol.
Today I was telling my husband what to get my son out for dinner and I caught (which doesn't usually happen) the crazy sentence that was coming out of my mouth. Los peas, que estan en el frig son good. Really did I just say that?
In my house we speak Spanglish. Generally my husband speaks Spanish and I English, or so at least I think I am. For example, my husband, my mom and I were all on our way to Home Depot the other day. My husband and I were talking about what we needed. When we got into the store my husband went off in his own direction and I turned to my mom and said, "what was it that we needed?"
"You are asking me?" She said.
"Yah, we were just talking about it in car." Still not understanding why she wasn't helping.
"You do realize that whole conversation was in Spanish, right?" she said.
Hum... clearly I didn't!
I love that I have the ability to switch back and forth between languages. I love the looks I get when I answer my phone in the middle of Target in Spanish. I love the options that open up for music, movies and TV because it doesn't matter if it's in English or Spanish. More importantly I love that I have been able to meet so many more people in this world all because I speak another language. There really is something to being bi-lingual.
There are some very fun Spanglish words I thought I would share with you. I hope you enjoy!
Googlear - to google someone
Molear- to go to the mall
Parkeate- to park (this one is so entwined in Border Spanish that I do believe people truely think this is an actually Spanish word)
pusheme- push me
watchale- watch this
un ridete- a ride
esmoking- tux
yonque- junk yard (pronounced like junky)
boiler- water heater
me frekea- I'm freaked out
troca- truck
nerdo- nerd
If I come across any new and good ones I'll be sure to add them. Until them I'll make sure to check that my blog is written in English and I haven't empece a escribir en Espanol.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
On Walmart
Against all the fibers of my being I'm going to write about Walmart. I'm not a fan of Walmart for reason I won't get into, but I don't think I could write about becoming Mexican without mentioning the Holy Grail of the Mexican shopping experience.
Ir de compras (shopping) should really be called ir de walmart. There is nothing one can't buy and nowhere one can't find a Super, open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Walmart. Aside from the obvious allure of cheap Chinese crap, Walmart has done an incredible marketing campaign to lure in Mexican buyers. But this is not what Walmart has actually come to mean to Mexican communities around the United States (and now Mexico as well).
Walmart is the modern day Plaza. Centuries ago when people lived in an age where it wasn't necessary to cross a border to feed your family, towns were built based around the Plaza. In fact houses were build around a central courtyard. These central meeting spaces were community centers. Places to meet people, to "shoot the breeze," to gossip, talk politics, or simply to enjoy the company of others. Mexicans are a relational bunch. Mexicans are also a chatty bunch. So if you put the two together you can understand that Mexicans sit around doing a lot of talking.
When I lived in Mexico I remember sitting around on the driveway (which doubled as a patio) for hours as my host mom would sit with her friends and gab the evening away. I was always bored to pieces but I guess I can thank her now for the unbeatable Spanish language immersion I endured for 3 months straight.
I suppose there are some Americans who like to sit around and talk as well. Sure we all like to catch up with our friends here and there. But on average I would say we are a doing culture. We make plans for lunch, penciled into our crackberries (Blackberries) and sandwiched between 5 other activities for the day. Its rare that we just sit and talk without any agenda. It's even rarer that we show up to a friends house unannounced and sit and talk without any agenda.
So where do chatty relational Mexicans go in communities across the US to meet, chat, and make connections- to the one place that affords them the luxury of being welcoming and open 24 hours a day, Walmart.
My mother-in-law is one such Walmart goer. Being new to Colorado, the first place she learned to drive herself to was Walmart. Even if she doesn't need to go shopping at all you can find her and my sister-in-law hitting up Walmart at 8pm (as long as the Telenovela isn't on). They very rarely come home with multiple shopping bags. Perhaps a token purchase to make sure the trip wasn't "wasted." But it was never about the shopping to begin with. They just need to go to the plaza, to be relational, to meet new people, to feel Mexican again.
Ir de compras (shopping) should really be called ir de walmart. There is nothing one can't buy and nowhere one can't find a Super, open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Walmart. Aside from the obvious allure of cheap Chinese crap, Walmart has done an incredible marketing campaign to lure in Mexican buyers. But this is not what Walmart has actually come to mean to Mexican communities around the United States (and now Mexico as well).
Walmart is the modern day Plaza. Centuries ago when people lived in an age where it wasn't necessary to cross a border to feed your family, towns were built based around the Plaza. In fact houses were build around a central courtyard. These central meeting spaces were community centers. Places to meet people, to "shoot the breeze," to gossip, talk politics, or simply to enjoy the company of others. Mexicans are a relational bunch. Mexicans are also a chatty bunch. So if you put the two together you can understand that Mexicans sit around doing a lot of talking.
When I lived in Mexico I remember sitting around on the driveway (which doubled as a patio) for hours as my host mom would sit with her friends and gab the evening away. I was always bored to pieces but I guess I can thank her now for the unbeatable Spanish language immersion I endured for 3 months straight.
I suppose there are some Americans who like to sit around and talk as well. Sure we all like to catch up with our friends here and there. But on average I would say we are a doing culture. We make plans for lunch, penciled into our crackberries (Blackberries) and sandwiched between 5 other activities for the day. Its rare that we just sit and talk without any agenda. It's even rarer that we show up to a friends house unannounced and sit and talk without any agenda.
So where do chatty relational Mexicans go in communities across the US to meet, chat, and make connections- to the one place that affords them the luxury of being welcoming and open 24 hours a day, Walmart.
My mother-in-law is one such Walmart goer. Being new to Colorado, the first place she learned to drive herself to was Walmart. Even if she doesn't need to go shopping at all you can find her and my sister-in-law hitting up Walmart at 8pm (as long as the Telenovela isn't on). They very rarely come home with multiple shopping bags. Perhaps a token purchase to make sure the trip wasn't "wasted." But it was never about the shopping to begin with. They just need to go to the plaza, to be relational, to meet new people, to feel Mexican again.
Monday, April 5, 2010
On Frijoles
When I first was introduced to beans with eggs for breakfast I thought my husband was smoking something. Beans come in burritos or maybe on a tostada, but beans and eggs? I protested for a while. Eating my eggs with my buttered toast and letting my husband fix his eggs with chorizo and a heaping side of beans all eaten with a tortilla. Eventually, I gave in and ate it for dinner one night. Then poco a poco I began to eat it for lunch. Until I have to admit now I am a full fledged fan of beans and eggs for breakfast.
There is a large Tupperware container always in our refrigerator with frijoles ready to heat and serve. The process in which these beans get into the container is still beyond me. The first time I went shopping for my husband and I, a week after we were married, I came home with (My Mexican friends avert your eyes) store bought tortillas and a can, yes a can, of refried beans. My husband took one look at that can and said "um... NO." I said well you better cook then cause this is as good as it gets from me.
This is my understanding of the long and ardious task of cooking beans. First you pick out all the non beans (ie. rocks) and bad beans from the bag. Then you wash them and soak them. Then you cook them on the stove for what feels like a decade (in a pressure cooker the time is reduced to maybe a year). Then you mash them up and stick them in the frig. There is probably more to it than that, but I've yet to learn the art. My husband makes good beans so why should I ruin a good thing?
I do have one complaint about beans. I HATE the smell of beans cooking and I HATE even more the smell of beans left out on the counter. The bean dishes have to be washed immediately after use.
So I guess you could now call me a frijolero (beaner). I think I'm supposed to take offense to this term but frankly it's true.
There is a large Tupperware container always in our refrigerator with frijoles ready to heat and serve. The process in which these beans get into the container is still beyond me. The first time I went shopping for my husband and I, a week after we were married, I came home with (My Mexican friends avert your eyes) store bought tortillas and a can, yes a can, of refried beans. My husband took one look at that can and said "um... NO." I said well you better cook then cause this is as good as it gets from me.
This is my understanding of the long and ardious task of cooking beans. First you pick out all the non beans (ie. rocks) and bad beans from the bag. Then you wash them and soak them. Then you cook them on the stove for what feels like a decade (in a pressure cooker the time is reduced to maybe a year). Then you mash them up and stick them in the frig. There is probably more to it than that, but I've yet to learn the art. My husband makes good beans so why should I ruin a good thing?
I do have one complaint about beans. I HATE the smell of beans cooking and I HATE even more the smell of beans left out on the counter. The bean dishes have to be washed immediately after use.
So I guess you could now call me a frijolero (beaner). I think I'm supposed to take offense to this term but frankly it's true.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
On Time
Just what exactly does it mean to be on time? If a wedding invitation states the wedding starts at 4, what time should you be there? If you were born in my family you would be there at 3:45. If you were born into my husband's family you would be there sometime around 5,maybe 6. Being on time is a matter of perspective. I know it can seem like Mexicans are down right rude to some Americans but you must understand that its all in one's priorities. Americans are focused on the future, Mexicans are focused on the present. Americans think it's rude to be late to a meeting with someone but Mexicans think it's rude to leave the person your with too soon. I've been late all my American life. So I've found my Mexican life to suit me perfectly.
So when to arrive for a wedding in Mexico? Everyone (meaning all Mexicans) know that 4 does not actually mean 4. 4 means sometime in the late afternoon/evening. In fact 4:59 is still in the hour of 4.
My husband and I attended his best friends wedding last year in Mexico. The night before we were to be at the rehearsal at 7 pm. Having learned a thing or two in the last few years I knew that didn't actually mean I needed to be at the church at 7. So my sister-in-law and I were shopping when I got a phone call around 7 from my slightly anxious husband asking our whereabouts. (It occurs to me that while I'm becoming Mexican perhaps he's becoming American . Before living in the US, I doubt he would have even noticed the time and that I might actually be late for said time) We'll come back soon I said, knowing full well that we didn't need to be there yet. We got there around 8:45 right as everyone else started to arrive. Perfect timing I thought!
So on to the wedding day. I think the wedding was supposed to start (again according to the invitation) around 4. I wonder if Mexico ran smoother before the invention of invitations? Putting an arbitrary time down on an invitation hasn't changed when things start. I'll have to write an entire post about invitations sometime. There's a lot more than meets the eye (besides the gaudy flowers).
So I arrive with the Bride to the church about 3:45. We quickly whisk her away into a secret room. The groom on the other hand (also early) stays outside greeting guests. The bride sends me into the sanctuary to check on the head count. Back in her secret room she asks, "so who's here?"
"Los Gringos" I say.
We fix her dress, her veil, and take some pictures. She sends me back out to check on things, it's now 4:30. More guests have arrived and some of the grooms family as well. I check in with the groom, take some more pictures (I'm the official photographer too), and head back to the bride's room.
"Who's here?" She asks
"Los Gringos." I tell her.
The flower girls arrive. More primping, pictures, etc. and I'm sent back out to check on the status. It's now nearing 5 pm.
"Mi familia?" the Bride asks.
"Not yet, but the Gringos are here."
"I can't start without my parents" she says, annoyed. "Where are they?"
This might be a good point to interrupt the story to tell you that when the bride's sister got married to a Gringo a few years earlier a similar scenario played out. The groom's entire family and friends were sitting and waiting 15 minutes prior to the start of the stated invitation time, the good Americans that they were. Two to three hours later when the bride's parents still hadn't shown up a friend drove out to the house to see what the problem was. He found her father in his skivies watching TV. The friend quickly ushered the mother and father to get ready and into the car. The wedding finally started several hours after stated invitation time.
So you can see my friends obvious annoyance for her missing parents. Just when we were about to send out the recon team for the missing parents they arrived.
So when to arrive for a wedding in Mexico? Everyone (meaning all Mexicans) know that 4 does not actually mean 4. 4 means sometime in the late afternoon/evening. In fact 4:59 is still in the hour of 4.
My husband and I attended his best friends wedding last year in Mexico. The night before we were to be at the rehearsal at 7 pm. Having learned a thing or two in the last few years I knew that didn't actually mean I needed to be at the church at 7. So my sister-in-law and I were shopping when I got a phone call around 7 from my slightly anxious husband asking our whereabouts. (It occurs to me that while I'm becoming Mexican perhaps he's becoming American . Before living in the US, I doubt he would have even noticed the time and that I might actually be late for said time) We'll come back soon I said, knowing full well that we didn't need to be there yet. We got there around 8:45 right as everyone else started to arrive. Perfect timing I thought!
So on to the wedding day. I think the wedding was supposed to start (again according to the invitation) around 4. I wonder if Mexico ran smoother before the invention of invitations? Putting an arbitrary time down on an invitation hasn't changed when things start. I'll have to write an entire post about invitations sometime. There's a lot more than meets the eye (besides the gaudy flowers).
So I arrive with the Bride to the church about 3:45. We quickly whisk her away into a secret room. The groom on the other hand (also early) stays outside greeting guests. The bride sends me into the sanctuary to check on the head count. Back in her secret room she asks, "so who's here?"
"Los Gringos" I say.
We fix her dress, her veil, and take some pictures. She sends me back out to check on things, it's now 4:30. More guests have arrived and some of the grooms family as well. I check in with the groom, take some more pictures (I'm the official photographer too), and head back to the bride's room.
"Who's here?" She asks
"Los Gringos." I tell her.
The flower girls arrive. More primping, pictures, etc. and I'm sent back out to check on the status. It's now nearing 5 pm.
"Mi familia?" the Bride asks.
"Not yet, but the Gringos are here."
"I can't start without my parents" she says, annoyed. "Where are they?"
This might be a good point to interrupt the story to tell you that when the bride's sister got married to a Gringo a few years earlier a similar scenario played out. The groom's entire family and friends were sitting and waiting 15 minutes prior to the start of the stated invitation time, the good Americans that they were. Two to three hours later when the bride's parents still hadn't shown up a friend drove out to the house to see what the problem was. He found her father in his skivies watching TV. The friend quickly ushered the mother and father to get ready and into the car. The wedding finally started several hours after stated invitation time.
So you can see my friends obvious annoyance for her missing parents. Just when we were about to send out the recon team for the missing parents they arrived.
The wedding started. I juggled my multiple duties as photographer, ring bearer (an entire other post will have to be dedicated to weddings), unofficial bride's maid and wedding guest the best I could. I noticed when we processed into the church that half the seats were empty, yet as we processed out it was standing room only. The Mexicans had finally arrived!
Monday, March 8, 2010
On Telenovelas
So I'm pretty sure the Oscars were on last night. But in my house it was the finale of "En el Nombre del Amor."
If you've never seen a Telenovela, change the channel to Telemundo or Univison between the hours of 5-8pm and you are bound to find one. Don't worry if you don't speak Spanish, you don't need to. Just know the basics of a Telenovela and you'll be an aficionado in no time.
Telenovelas literally translated is "a novel of the TV." It is not, I repeat, not a Soap Opera. Soap Operas are on during the day and the same shows have been running since, well... before I was born with the same old (and I really mean old) actors. Telenovelas on the other hand are more like long mini-series. They run an average of 3-4 months, Monday-Friday. The same episode can air up to 3 times a night, at 5, 6 and 7. Just in case you missed it the first two runs you can be sure to catch it at some point that night. (Interestingly, it makes it easy to watch what I want around my house, because the telenovela will be on again the next hour.)
There are 3 main ingredients to any good telenovela;
1. A rich and handsome character
2. The poor, angelic and equally beautiful women who is in love with the rich man
3. and the evil villain who seeks to keep them apart whether out of jealous or a desire to maintain the status quo for 120 episodes
Their are famous telenovela actors and actresses; Pedro Fernandez, Itati Cantoral, Araceli Arambula and Eduardo Yanes. No matter what happens, or how implausible the scenario the series would have to end if one of them were to be killed off. So even if a women falls from the top of a cathedral after being shot, she will live. (This was the case with last nights finale of "En el Nombre del Amor")
Far fetched and overly dramatic themes are the keys to a convincing telenovela and the acting follows suit. Gestures are big, crying is loud and emotions are evident.
The music cannot be forgotten either. Each scene is backed by a dramatic mood setting score. Each telenovela has it's own theme song which shows up over and over again throughout the show, not just at the beginning. The catchy little tunes ("Hasta que el dinero no separe" my husbands sings as I write) gets stuck in your head. A handy little reminder as you go about your day not to forget to watch that night. Although if you do it's not that big of a deal because it will be on again in an hour!
All the drama makes these shows popular the world over. I used to work with refugees from all over the world. I can't tell you the number of times I would go to visit someone and find them watching a telenovela. Russians, Iraqis, Liberians, Afghans, none of whom spoke any Spanish. But it didn't matter. The themes, drama and beautiful people make them universally understandable and popular. Whenever I would mention to any of the refugees that watching a Spanish television program was not going to help their English they would shrug and say "Don't I need to know Spanish in the US as well?" Touche I say!
So although I live in a house of telenovela fans (even my husband, although I'm not sure he will admit it) I have yet to get sucked in. I'll stick to Gray's Anatomy and Bones, there's enough Drama in those for me. I can get all the funny highlights I need from the Soup anyway!
PS. On a side note, Why are Spanish television stations louder than English ones? If you don't believe me start flipping though channels and notice how quickly you want to reach for your volume button when you flip to telemundo. I don't understand, any ideas?
If you've never seen a Telenovela, change the channel to Telemundo or Univison between the hours of 5-8pm and you are bound to find one. Don't worry if you don't speak Spanish, you don't need to. Just know the basics of a Telenovela and you'll be an aficionado in no time.
Telenovelas literally translated is "a novel of the TV." It is not, I repeat, not a Soap Opera. Soap Operas are on during the day and the same shows have been running since, well... before I was born with the same old (and I really mean old) actors. Telenovelas on the other hand are more like long mini-series. They run an average of 3-4 months, Monday-Friday. The same episode can air up to 3 times a night, at 5, 6 and 7. Just in case you missed it the first two runs you can be sure to catch it at some point that night. (Interestingly, it makes it easy to watch what I want around my house, because the telenovela will be on again the next hour.)
There are 3 main ingredients to any good telenovela;
1. A rich and handsome character
2. The poor, angelic and equally beautiful women who is in love with the rich man
3. and the evil villain who seeks to keep them apart whether out of jealous or a desire to maintain the status quo for 120 episodes
Their are famous telenovela actors and actresses; Pedro Fernandez, Itati Cantoral, Araceli Arambula and Eduardo Yanes. No matter what happens, or how implausible the scenario the series would have to end if one of them were to be killed off. So even if a women falls from the top of a cathedral after being shot, she will live. (This was the case with last nights finale of "En el Nombre del Amor")
Far fetched and overly dramatic themes are the keys to a convincing telenovela and the acting follows suit. Gestures are big, crying is loud and emotions are evident.
The music cannot be forgotten either. Each scene is backed by a dramatic mood setting score. Each telenovela has it's own theme song which shows up over and over again throughout the show, not just at the beginning. The catchy little tunes ("Hasta que el dinero no separe" my husbands sings as I write) gets stuck in your head. A handy little reminder as you go about your day not to forget to watch that night. Although if you do it's not that big of a deal because it will be on again in an hour!
All the drama makes these shows popular the world over. I used to work with refugees from all over the world. I can't tell you the number of times I would go to visit someone and find them watching a telenovela. Russians, Iraqis, Liberians, Afghans, none of whom spoke any Spanish. But it didn't matter. The themes, drama and beautiful people make them universally understandable and popular. Whenever I would mention to any of the refugees that watching a Spanish television program was not going to help their English they would shrug and say "Don't I need to know Spanish in the US as well?" Touche I say!
So although I live in a house of telenovela fans (even my husband, although I'm not sure he will admit it) I have yet to get sucked in. I'll stick to Gray's Anatomy and Bones, there's enough Drama in those for me. I can get all the funny highlights I need from the Soup anyway!
PS. On a side note, Why are Spanish television stations louder than English ones? If you don't believe me start flipping though channels and notice how quickly you want to reach for your volume button when you flip to telemundo. I don't understand, any ideas?
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Introduction
I grew up in a middle-class white American family. My father's ancestry hails from Sweden, Belgium and other very white countries, my mother's from Ireland. We microwaved butter and cinnamon on our tortillas bought at King Soopers. The only spice in the cabinet was black pepper and even that was often considered too spicy for my mom. My Dad knew about three words in Spanish, margarita, hola and gracias (pronounced grass-e-ass). Christmas dinner was turkey, stuffing, mash potatoes and cranberry sauce. Being late was offensive. Things were neat and orderly. Vacation plans were made on excel spreadsheets (OK my Dad was an engineer so this might be atypical)
Somewhere during this pleasant and predictable upbringing I met the love of my life and for the last 5 years I've been transforming into a Gringa with a Mexican heart.
The other day I drove up to my house to find my father-in-law's car on our lawn. I laughed so hard and thought, I should be writing all of these crazy things down. If you are of the Gringo heritage I hope to shed some light on the unique customs of Mexicans. If you consider yourself Mexican, Mexican/American, or Latino, Enjoy!
Somewhere during this pleasant and predictable upbringing I met the love of my life and for the last 5 years I've been transforming into a Gringa with a Mexican heart.
The other day I drove up to my house to find my father-in-law's car on our lawn. I laughed so hard and thought, I should be writing all of these crazy things down. If you are of the Gringo heritage I hope to shed some light on the unique customs of Mexicans. If you consider yourself Mexican, Mexican/American, or Latino, Enjoy!
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