ReKo,
Argentina
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Wow! what an interesting first week. On Monday morning I took the noon bus from in town out to the farm. I had to walk an extra 2.5 Ks from where the bus turned around. The walk wasnt far but carrying all my things I was soon in a sweat. The first night I was asked to join a traditional American Indian suana on another property with a river which two New Mexicans had travelled to El Bolson for. It involved a dome made from branches covered in blankets and plastic. Hot stones were brought from the fire and placed in a small pit in the centre of the structure after everyone had piled in. The door was closed and water slowly brushed onto the stones. This happened four times after the door was opened to let spirts in. It was a play on the senses in the dark with drumming, chanting with the heat. The second night we all went to a party to celebrate a groups finishing of their course involving natural building, permaculture etc. The owners? put on a music show with traditional Indian (Hindi) intruments and singing that went into the wee hours of the morning.
I think my first full day of work didnt start until thursday. I have been helping out with odd jobs like fence clearing and moving alot of timber. They have 120 hectares so there is plenty of work around. They are building a house for wwoof volunteers and one of the three brothers which has been in progress for a year. They have a work shop and a water system still which are in the early stages. The Friday was the biggest day we worked from 10 am through till around 8. I am saw all over and have returned to town to relax and recuperate. The town has a market and music alot of the days including Saturday and Sunday so ill be spending some time in the park resting and trying some of the locally brewed beers.
