I weave between rocks and puddles on the dirt roads, trying to find the correct street. Instead of the third left, I take the first and second. Wandering through barrios, my basket filled with items for my meeting. It’s a lasagna made of my cell phone, a couple mandarins, a water bottle and camera bag. I smile at the people I pass, trying to look like I know where I am going. I call Natalia twice, explaining where I am. ”There’s a big blue fence and I can see the lake.”

I feel like I can ride for miles, cooled by the strong wind that blows from the lake. I am strong on my bike, almost invincible. I hear the horns honk, vehicles warning me of their approach. I don’t realize how hot I am until I stop. I promise myself, while panting, to slow down on the return trip. By the time I leave, I’ve completely forgotten this promise. I pedal fast towards home.

Scarves waiting to be completed, January 26, 2010