Having spent the majority of my life on the central coast of
California, it is rare that I get to enjoy all of the delightfulness that is
autumn. Now that I have experienced all
of the seasons of Santiago it is clear that fall, or otoño, is by far the best. Though the bitter winter cold is now within
sight, the Andes look their best with a bright white cap of snow and there is
nothing quite like the feeling of walking amongst trees as their red and orange
leaves fall, daintily dancing to the ground.
Not only has autumn been the loveliest climactically, after an
uncomfortably hot summer, but it has been a great season for many other reasons. I am finally confident enough with Spanish
to be keeping up with my classes, maintaining a solid social group and even working
as an intern at a community garden or huerto.
The internship at Cultivos Urbanos has been a great
opportunity, allowing me to meet some awesome people and add something positive
to this city that has given so much to me this past year. I am also expanding my knowledge about
gardening and home cultivation which I know will be put to good use in the
future. We recently held an event at the
huerto to welcome the new season and
celebrate all the gifts that fall brings.
Our fiesta de otoño was a wonderful celebration with
live music, food from the huerto, a
ritual and a great turnout from the community.
There was so much interest in the project and positive energy from the
people that made it a magical day; it is wonderful to be a part of something
bigger than myself that contributes such an important, well received, aspect to
the community.
