There’s no doubt “I’m a GRINGA.”

As if I wasn’t already more than aware of the fact that my skin is a pale shade of white, the Dominicans always find a way to remind me once again. In the Dominican Republic, people are frequently described by the way they look. Being called “gordita” (little fat one), “falquita” (little thin one), or “morena” (dark skinned/dark hair) are not considered to be insults nor complements. They’re simpy terms of identification. Needless to say, I am “la gringa.” I’ve actually started answering to it, as if “gringa” is my name. I know they don’t mean for it to be negative, but I can’t say I’m particularly fond of this label. Perhaps I’m the first gringa many of these people have ever seen, which would explain why they look at me like I'm an attraction at the zoo.

Yesterday morning, Daniel (my host brother and coworker) and I were waiting outside the house for Helen (the boss) to come pick us up when a little girl walked up to me and handed me a little yellow flower. She had three in her hand, which I assumed she was planning to give to her little Dominican boyfriend, but instead she gave it to me. I thanked her and asked her what her name was. Without hesitation, she looked at me and said “tu eres blanca” (you are white), and I said, “yes I know.” This morning, the same little girl ran up to me and gave me a giant hug. She didn’t say anything, but I know we’re going to be friends.

This weekend, the interns are all traveling to Cabarete on the north coast of the island. It’s a small town known for their beaches and surfing. Even though I’ve had two surfing lessons in my lifetime, I’m still quite the novice, but I’m hoping I can catch a few waves. More than anything, I am excited to reunite with the other interns, share stories, and have two days to speak English! What a blessing! I leave tomorrow morning on a bus from Santiago to Sosua, which is about twenty-five minutes away from Cabarete. Somehow, I’ll find a taxi (preferably not a motoconcho, or mototaxi) to Cabarete. “God willing” (as the Dominicans frequently say), everything will go according to plan!

More to come next week on my journey to Cabarete as well as the ins and outs of how to ride a moto. YES. I’ve ridden a mo-ped. Multiple times. It is scary, thrilling, and surreal all at once. Details to come!