Today we got to experience something that truly is once in a lifetime: the gaucho culture. We arrived at Don Silvano, a famous ranch in Argentina, around 10:30 a.m. and were there until 4:30 p.m.- an entire day dedicated to a strong piece of culture that makes Argentina what it is today. First, we were able to explore all around the ranch on our own. This included being able to see the horses, birds, and cats that are inhabitants of the farm. We also were able to take a ride around the farm via horse drawn carriage. While continuing to explore, we were able to receive a presentation of what the gaucho culture is derived from and what it is considered today. Gaucho culture stems off of cowboy culture and is the Argentine symbol of masculinity. They are people who usually are both from a mix of Spanish and Indigenous descent who pertain towards the well-being of livestock. The diet for a gaucho heavily consists of meat from the livestock they work with. For our lunch, we got to have a piece of this culture. Chicken, sausage, steak, and pork were all served to us while we got to engage with a singing and dancing performance. It was so fun to be called up to the dance floor and use the tango skills we had just learned days before! We also got to have some fun as we all were able to zipline across the farm as well as watch a gaucho show while enjoying our meriendas (snacks). The gaucho show consisted of horse racing and displaying as well as ring challenges. The ring challenges consisted of the horse riders racing fast on their horses while simultaneously trying to fish a ring dangling down with a tiny stick. The riders would then give the ring to any woman of their choice, and she would give him a kiss on the cheek. The days continue to get better and better as we go on, and today I ended it with a ring on my finger! 😉 Hasta mañana mis amigos. Also, hey mom you are an ultimate slayer thanks for being super-duper amazing. Love you so much I hope you have an amazing Mother’s Day; can’t wait to celebrate with you when I’m home. 🙂