Water or electricity, which is more important? My mom asked me that question last night, in all sincerity. It has become a bit of a reality for me. Not that it’s an option to choose between the two, it’s merely an academic question. A few weeks ago, the water wasn’t falling (that’s the verb used in Spanish for water coming out of the tap –
caer), which is strange here. Normally, it comes quite regularly, 6am to 5pm. Sadly, I wasn’t able to use the washing machine, let alone take a shower. Bucket baths and washing clothes by hand, which is completely do-able, I merely had become accustomed to the easy life.
The water began to fall again, but then I was informed of the high cost of electricity and that we can no longer use the washing machine. Actually, Doña Angelica told me to keep on using it until they turn off our electricity, but I’m not going to do that. I thought she was just being facetious, until yesterday when she told me they’re going to
cortar la luz (cut the light) in the house because she can’t pay the bill.
I feel, though, like I could live without electricity. It’s not a necessity. I don’t particularly like to watch TV; I can charge my electronics in the muni; I can make smaller meals so that I don't have leftovers; and going to bed earlier sounds quite appealing.
It turns out, though, that I may have to move anyway because word on the street is that she is closing up the house for a couple months starting in October (when Chino gets out of school) to go to El Quiche (another department) to take care of her mother. It’s a bummer, because I like my set-up, but at the same time, I like the idea of having my own place. It may be a little lonely, but I would just ride my bike around visiting people. Plus, it would give me something more to do, taking care of the house and yard. I would like to have to mow the lawn with a machete. First I have to buy a machete…
Stay tuned to see how my situation develops!
