Our Civic Duty
Today Holly and I went to the U.S. Embassy in Santiago, Chile to turn in our election ballots. It was a very satisfying experience to get to vote even though we aren’t at home. And, I have to admit, I’ve always wanted an excuse to go to the U.S. Embassy while in another country, and until today, have never needed to.
Walking up to the building, I was reminded of all of the movies, where the Americans are running from the bad guys, just trying to seek safe haven within the gates of the embassy, bad guys hot on their tales trying to do anything they can to prevent them from reaching their asylum.
Well, when we got there, it wasn’t anything like the movies.
It was very interesting though, and I was surprised to realize that everyone there seemed to be a native spanish speaker/Chilean resident, versus having Americans working the door/windows. However, everyone was very nice and very helpful.
In the end, it was definitely the most exciting election I’ve participated in, for the importance it means for our country, as well as the manner in which my vote was cast. I guess I should also mention that while filling out the ballot on Sunday evening, Steve and I tried some Chilean Cognac made nearby at Concho y Toro vineyard, and also had a cigar. Not bad voting experience if you ask me, and I hope the 2012 elections are just as fun.
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Happy Halloween! I’m so glad to see your trip is gin g well! Hey – something is up with the comment screen. The text is gray and background is gray so I can’t see what I’m typing!!
Anyway…I’ve been put on bed rest, so I’ll have plenty of time to keep up with your posts. Our little girl decided she wanted to come 8 weeks early! We stopped the labor, but now I’m working from home on couch. Not too bad.
Have a great week! – Kathy (& Jess)