Small and Large
What I’m about to write isn’t a list of complaints—it’s more of a travelogue of surprises.
I knew we were downsizing from our four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath house. But this? This was more of a down-plunge. I picked our current apartment off Airbnb, wooed by charming descriptions and beautifully lit photos . What we walked into on Thursday was… let’s say “cozier” than expected.
To be fair, the apartment does have its perks: a balcony with a great view and a steady breeze that occasionally feels like forgiveness. The main room combines the kitchen and living room into one long, narrow stretch—perfect for people who enjoy turning sideways to pass each other. Counter space is theoretical at best, and what little there is holds the tiny stash of groceries we dared to buy. Still, it has all the essentials: a fridge, sink, microwave, stove, and oven (yes, that stove).
The bedroom could generously be described as “snug,” and the washing machine is about the size of a salad spinner—ten shirts at a time if we’re lucky. The bathroom, on the other hand, is surprisingly spacious, complete with a toilet, bidet, sink, and large shower. All in all, it’s a nice place. It’s just clearly meant for one person—not two humans and two greyhounds with legs longer than most Montevideo hallways.
Speaking of the dogs—every time we go outside, we see locals walking their pets. But they’re all pint-sized: terriers, cocker spaniels, maybe the occasional small mutt. Not a single Great Dane, shepherd, or, heaven forbid, greyhound in sight. Our vet warned us that greyhounds aren’t common in Latin America. Boy, was she right.
When we walk 12 Oaks and Tyson, we draw stares like we’re walking two unicorns. Most people just glance and move on, but a few stop mid-stride, clearly trying to figure out what species these creatures belong to. Then there’s the special subset who look genuinely alarmed—they veer away in a perfect bell curve, as if the dogs are radioactive. (It’s the same energy I saw at Texas State when students nervously curved around the Lambda table in the Quad.)
I get it—I tense up around big dogs too. But it’s fascinating to realize that most of these folks have probably never seen a greyhound up close. Around here, our pups aren’t just pets; they’re exotic curiosities on leashes.
The weather is nice and sunny with a cool breeze. We are spring time here moving into summer. It is a great time to be in Uruguay!
