La Güera
I don’t have a picture of her. I doubt that I’ll ever be able to get one. But there’s a lady on the corner near the school who sells waters and other drinks and a variety of snacks. I often say, “Buenas Tardes” to her as I pass by. However, she has a habit of announcing me especially when her sons are present (I think they’re her sons). She says loudly, in Spanish: The güera is walking (güera = white woman). The güera has a smile (sonrisa). Today, I had a sandwich (torta) in my hand, and she announced: La güera tiene una torta.
If she is not announcing me, she is sleeping in her booth or has a customer and does not see me.
Her proclivity to point me out makes me wonder if she is being friendly or having fun at my expense. Both are equally interesting and entertaining for both of us. In fact, I am almost inspired to do more provocative things to test what she’ll announce or not and when. What if I come by with a friend? What if I wear a large hat? What if I introduce myself?
shewhodaresnothing 