Today was field day!! We started our day bright and early at 8am at el campo, or the field. Our first game was quemado, or dodgeball, and it took place in the gym with the Cary Academy students playing against their Quilmes partners. The game was heated, and there was no clear winner, even though there were a few Quilmes students who seemed to have infinite lives.
Next, we played a game called delgado, a twist on dodgeball that involves additional attackers around the outside of the court. The Cary Academy students dominated this game, with Sean taking out Emi for the final kill. After this crushing loss, the Quilmes students decided to shift over to their strong suit: fútbol. We headed out to the field, where we partook in grass volleyball, American football, rugby, and most importantly, soccer. Shockingly, the Argentinian boys crushed the Americans, winning most games by mercy rule. But the Americans did not lose hope; we then took our confidence to the hockey field, where we were again dominated by the Quilmes players. Once we realized that we were never going to be better than the Argentinians at their own sports, we gave up. It was time for lunch!
We ate inside the cafe next to the field, listening to music and belting our hearts out by the warm fire. Then, full of bbq sandwiches, we went back to the gym for handball. Again, we Americans were unsure regarding the rules but competitive, nonetheless. We played a few rounds, got sweaty and tired, and then were released to the fields to relax (or play more fútbol). My partner and I sat on the grass with a group of friends for snacks and chit-chat. I had many pastries and tried mate for the first time, which was delicious when I added five sugar packets. After relaxing and talking for a good while, Fer called us back to the bus, and it was time to go home. At home, my partner and I took some much-needed rest time before going to see Lilo & Stitch in Quilmes’ local theater, Showcase. After the movie we had a lovely dinner of empanadas, my favorite, at home with the whole family. Then, we immediately went to bed- I was asleep by 9:30! After a week of early mornings and late nights, this evening of rest was much appreciated. -Sophie
Waking up that morning was tough. Each ring of my alarm felt like a loud siren, pulling me from the comfort of sleep. My partner and I had recently moved into her dad’s house, where we stayed in a Jack and Jill room. That setup meant we got ready together talking, laughing, and listening to music. It reminded me so much of getting ready with my sister for school and events. Building that bond with my partner made it feel like we were sisters too.
We joined her family for breakfast, enjoying fresh squeezed orange juice and warm medialunas, the Nutella we spread inside melting perfectly. On the drive to the field, the prettiest sunrise helped me finally open my eyes. As we stepped out of the car, a cool breeze brushed my face. Thankfully, I brought my jacket.
We greeted each other in my new favorite way: a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Together, we walked into the gym and started the day with a game of dodgeball. It was hilarious because both teams (Quilmes and CA) kept cheating, staying in the game even after getting hit. We followed that up with a game called delgado, which I had never heard of before but ended up really enjoying.
Next, we had some free time with options like football, rugby, volleyball, or just relaxing. I chose to lie down, soak in the sun, and listen to music with my partner and our friends. Later, we played some field hockey before sitting down to a lunch of pulled pork sandwiches and drinks. As a sweet surprise, we were given ice cream. Bon Bons have quickly become one of my favorite treats.
After lunch, we headed back to the hockey field for more free time, joined by other students from Quilmes High School. We had the option to play handball or field hockey again. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but my partner wanted to go inside for handball, so I followed her. We ended up not playing, as most people chose handball, but I didn’t mind. I got to relax and chat with friends.
When the field day ended, we took the bus back to Quilmes High School, where we were picked up by Justi’s dad. As soon as we got home, I took a long, much-needed nap. Everyone teased me for it, but it was worth it! Later, we started getting ready for dinner with a larger group. Lula and I drove with Fecho, Savion, and Tati, while Mindy and Cata drove separately to join us at Justi’s house to get ready.
I had high expectations for the burgers everyone raved about, and they were right. They were delicious! After dinner, we walked to an ice cream shop. I always love sweet treats, and this one didn’t disappoint. We kept walking around the city, which looked stunning at night. Of course, that meant taking lots of pictures.
That night, Lula, Elina, Justi, Cata, Mindy, and I had a sleepover, and we all fell asleep quickly. It had been such a full, joyful day! A day that could have been just a regular one but instead became unforgettable. -Saron
