Photos from yesterday! Dr. G took us on a tour at "centro", the town center, and we visited some markets. There's still more but I will post those up when I have more time.

Artisan market - we didn't get to shop much but we're definitely going back.

CHOCOLATE!! (And of course, mole in the back!)

Another view of the market.

"Centro"- a park like area with people selling all kinds of goods.

There were several people selling balloons as well.

Genuine leather bags and wallets at the market.

It is common practice in church to buy candles and light them to make a prayer - and here is a "modern" method of having bulb candles instead of matches!

Church of Santo Domingo

Close up of the piece above the altar.

Hand-woven clothing

Not sure if these guys were playing independently to make a bit of cash or if they were part of the restaurant entertainment they were standing next to. We were in a bit of a rush!

We've seen quite a few dogs just running around outside, some with collars, others without.

Church of Santo Domingo

Outside the church

Ceiling of the church - very beautiful patterns and photos!

First day! So, we had orientation at 10 AM at SURCO, a grassroots organization based in Oaxaca. (I will post up information soon in a module!). There was coffee and fruits, and an opportunity to meet some of the staff that will be helping us throughout the trip. Me and another student were assigned to a local clinic, which we will be seeing on Thursday.

SURCO - there was coffee and fruits for orientation, a fantastic start to the day!

The day started with an orientation at SURCO, and then we went back to our homes for lunch. Our mom made us spaghetti, salsa, and bread. Usually, lunch is considered the largest meal of the day, and occurs around 1 or 2 PM. Afterwards, the entire group of us students met up and headed into the town center to find a bank and ATM for money exchange/withdrawal.

Dogs on top of walls - not uncommon.

Saw some neat sites and tried not to look too touristy. We will be visiting the same general area tomorrow with Professor Guarnaccia, so hopefully he can show us around more. Returned home for a small dinner and tried to train our homestay mom's dog. Until tomorrow!

Outside of one of the several churches we passed by today.

We all met up before heading to SURCO together, led by one of the homestay moms. Everyone was given a phone by SURCO which we could add minutes to and use to stay in contact.

And say hello to Sid, one of the dogs belonging to a homestay family!

Hey all! Finally made it to my homestay after a few hours of delay. I'm staying with two other girls from the program. I'd elaborate more but I'm exhausted. Instead, here are some photos I took - more will be coming!

Totally not all of my luggage! I need to learn to pack light haha.

Finally arrived in the airport and waiting for the rest of the group.

My flight leaves around 2 PM on Tuesday and I am so nervous right now! A good amount of other students in the program are taking the same flight, and we will all land in Houston before switching flights. Packing right now - I have so much trouble with what clothes to bring so hopefully I manage to fit everything in one bag!