The Tinsel Hits South America

Kristin arrived Friday morning and we wasted no time getting this adventure started. Chile had a game that day and so we got right into the heart of it in downtown Santiago. I have never been in a mob scene or seen riot police but Friday I experienced both. The police had shields and were dressed to look like Ninja Turtles, I don't think that is what they were going for, but it was somehow calming. We got a bit lost and they were very helpful, I thank Kristin's beauty for this.

Here is one of many business men dressed ridiculously in support of Chile.
There were huge screens set up in various parts of the city so people could watch Chile. It was absolute madness and Chile lost, but that didn't keep people from honking their horns, blowing those horns, or containing their excitement that Chile advanced due to a tie.

Saturday we went to Pomaire the ceramic handicraft haven town that is about one hour from Santiago. We were dropped off on the side of the highway and had to find our way to the town, this proves Kristin is the best travel partner because she not only thought it was as funny as I did, she enjoyed it too. Kristin and I are a dangerous combination when it comes to handicrafts because we cannot resist them. Somehow we managed to leave the town without buying all their goods, but we definitely stimulated their economy. I would like to take this opportunity to sing Tinsel's praises because it takes a very special to trust me with their travel plans and she has done so wholeheartedly and with a great attitude even though she must be exhausted.

I loved Valparaiso the first time I went there with the Hanley's but the love was solidified experiencing it with Kristin. The whole city is an expression of art and the type of place I imagine Kristin living because it oozes creativity, individuality, and relaxation, just like her. We walked around the hills (which we were informed there are 45 of) and enjoyed the graffiti all around. We got a little bit picture crazy and will share the results of one pisco sour and a camera in our hands now.

The photos are more creative thanks to Kristin.

This photo is for you, Mom, notice the bird?

She was furious, can't you tell?

This dinosaur was ferocious.