Nuggets

Amazing shoes I got for $20 bucks

Random observations and thoughts I’m too lazy to link together in a coherent paragraph.

In Panama there are two volume levels music can be played at. This goes for in the home, in the car, and at the bar. Whether you are with teenagers or grandparents the options are:

1) LOUD

2) Unbearably FUCKING LOUD

All boxing matches that are usually On-Demand or HBO/Showtime events in the states are broadcast on public television here completely free. La Liga, Serie A, and Premier League games are also on basic TV.

Five things I miss about the states in no particular order:

1. Law & Order
2. 25¢ buffalo chicken wings
3. Cold weather
4. Hot showers
5. VH1 programming

Pork rinds in package or pure form are a delicious yet relatively under appreciated snack.

It is evident that Panama is still a developing country because their razors only have three blades; I imagine we are up to eight or nine by now in the states.

I am getting way too good at FreeCell Solitaire.

Panamanians have hit on something with their use of Jello because although boring by itself it’s quite a good compliment to cake and/or ice cream.

My Birthday Party

Arroz con pollo with potato salad is standard fare for any large gathering including birthday’s (see above), Mothers Day, Christmas, New Years, and even wakes. I’m not sure if we have an equivalent in the states.

The Rod Carew National Stadium is named after the Panamanian Hall of Famer who played for the Minnesota Twins and is one of only two players (Ty Cobb being the other) to lead the Major Leagues in batting average three years in a row.

Roberto Duran "Manos de Piedra" (Hands of Stone) a born in the Azuero Peninsula of Panama (where I live) is considered to be one of the greatest boxers of all time holding titles in the Lightweight, Welterweight, Jr. Middleweight and Middleweight classes throughout his career.

My host family and neighbors have been amazingly supportive and helpful