Archive for the year 2007
Las Posadas Songs Posted by Transparent Language on Dec 31, 2007
Posadas is a wonderful Mexican holiday that brings neighbors and friends together for nine festive nights of singing and eating. Beginning December 16th and continuing through Christmas Eve, Posadas reenact the experience of Joseph and Mary as they wandered from house to house, looking for shelter (Posada means inn in Spanish) Traditionally, participants gather together…
The History of the Piñata Posted by Transparent Language on Dec 27, 2007
As the holiday season comes upon us, I felt it timely to clear up a misconception about the piñata.The piñata is widely viewed as a Mexican diversion and has become an indispensable attraction in children’s birthday parties throughout the world.However, in Mexico the piñata makes its most important appearance, not at birthday parties, but…
The Meaning of “Ahorita” Posted by Transparent Language on Dec 18, 2007
I have learned a curious thing about the word ahorita since living in Mexico for a couple of years.It has two seemingly contradictory meanings: “right now” and “in a minute.” When I first studied abroad, I found that when my host mother asked my host sister to do something “ahorita,” she jumped to attention…
The Preterite and the Imperfect: Part 1 Posted by Transparent Language on Dec 9, 2007
Ah, the dreaded past tense.Once the Spanish learner comes to terms with ser and estar, they are thrown the curve ball of preterite and imperfect.Here is a quick review of the main uses of each.However, keep in mind that as with any grammar “rule” there are exceptions! The preterite is used when talking about…
The Word América Posted by Transparent Language on Nov 12, 2007
In skimming through TL´s Portuguese Blog I came across Christopher O’Donnell’s excellent article on the word “America” and the controversy it can spark when used incorrectly in a foreign language. This is an important point for our Spanish-speaking audience as well, and a problem I personally faced on my first study abroad experience in Mexico…
Lunfardo: Buenos Aires Slang Posted by Transparent Language on Nov 12, 2007
Argentina is largely a country of immigrants and is distinguished from its Latin American neighbors by its mainly European ethnic roots: according to the CIA’s World Fact Book, 97% of Argentines consider themselves to be of European origin. The majority of immigrants to Argentina, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, hailed…
Salsa Verde Recipe Posted by Transparent Language on Oct 24, 2007
I went to a cooking class last year in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico at the “Traditional Mexican Cooking School” and came away with a number of delicious recipes to make authentic Mexican food. One of my favorites is for traditional salsa verde. This recipe is extremely fast and easy, and can be used…