Alternate Vision

Two hours of soccer up in Soquel and then an hour of dancing to live afro-brazilian music on the beach. Sore legs. I was reminded of my time in Rio on Copacabana. Muita saudade. Tem uma escola de samba perto da minha casa. That's what the Uruguayan samba dancer told me.

Am savoring every second by the beach. The weather is occasionally misty in the morning, a mellow 70 during the day, and chilly enough to warrant a light jacket in the evenings. If the weather is warm enough, we cook outside in the garden. Otherwise, we normally share the indoor kitchen space. The other day, I decided to indulge my sudden noodle craving. I made enough singapore rice noodles for the entire household. Every time someone cooks extra it is typically offered to the rest of the house. For a household whose inhabitants are predominantly Latin American, this is the norm. Alba watched carefully as I tossed the noodles frequently to prevent them from sticking to the wok. She and Ezekiel have seen Brazilians, Colombians and some Europeans cook up a storm in here, but never an Indian. Constantin had me leave some aside for his lunch, and so did Alba. Xavier made note of the recipe. I am not hungry right now but whatever this is, it smells like something my next date will like. We sat around after dinner sipping on his Riesling, 2005 Chateau Ste. Michelle. Out of all the interesting individuals I have encountered here, he is probably the person whose personality and energy is most endearing to me. Nomad by nature, Uruguayan by nationality, artist by training and Buddhist by choice he divides his time between his four great passions - travelling, surfing, yoga and being a wine connoisseur. It's always entertaining to learn about Hindu philosophy from a non-Indian. His knowledge on Hindu mythology is as much impressive as it is humbling. Xavier certainly embodies the vibe and spirit of Santa Cruz. We have plans to check out some wine country this weekend. My first two weeks here have taught me one thing - it's easy to get comfortable and spoilt by the lifestyle and weather here, which could be harmless or dangerous depending on one's outlook in life.