Martes = Michael!

Dear Chicago,
I cannot believe MC arrived this morning!! He had about 23 hours of travel, bless him. I had an awful time this morning getting the car I ordered to show at the right time and after a nervous phone call from MC on a payphone, we finally met up! Many thanks to the 'vecino'[neighbor] who lent a very special "Crew Member" ID to MC's suitcase - what an awesome way to travel! (I cannot wait to meet you!) From the airport, we checked into our apartment and made a quick turnaround to get the most out of our first day.

Lunch at 'El Argentine' bakery in my neighborhood was adorable - empanadas, bocadito sandwiches and cafe. We hopped the subway to the center of the city to knock out the main tourist attractions: Plaza de Mayo, Casa Rosada, Avenida Florida, the National Cathedral - I noticed something here this time. In one of the alcoves of the Cathedral, there was a big frame of passages from the book of Genesis rescued from various locations after WWII. The frame was a tribute from Jews who were welcomed into Argentina after persecution. Amazing to read in Spanish.

After a solemn visit, we walked the length of Avenida Florida, the pedestrian mall and "Times Square" of Buenos Aires. MC has his first alfajor - cookies filled with dulce de leche. A visit to Galeria Pacifico and the Cento Cultural de Borges and we were finally wiped out. We window shopped and talked our way to a bus stop to head home. The ride was long but we finally made it back in time to enjoy some Malbec before dinner. While relaxing and unpacking, MC fell asleep - I couldn't blame him! He had traveled for about 24 hours. I ducked out to get some Quilmes and a giant calzone from the shop around the corner - sometimes the most random cheap meals end up being the best.

There is no translation, so once again I have to say it in English - I live a very, very charmed life.

xoxo
Tess (and Michael!)