My One Do-Over

Mom & Dad, this story has a happy ending.

Nati and I arrived in Mendoza in the morning. After an afternoon of shopping to spruce up our 2 month old wardrobe, we decided to siesta in a big plaza. I napped for a good hour underneath a tree using my bag as a pillow. As I started to stir and wake, I heard fast steps and felt my bag get pulled from under my head. I don't think my head even hit the ground before I was up running after the thief. I just instinctually started off. It took me several strides before I realized that I was running barefoot after a youthful lad with long legs who had just stolen my bag!! My money! My passport! My bus ticket! My new dress!!

The boy ran and ran... and me after him screaming for someone to help me. My intention really was only to keep him in my sights and hopefully get someone ahead to tackle the guy. No such luck. For nearly four blocks people watched as he zipped by them... and then stared as I ran past too. Finally, the guy slowed to a walk to round a corner. It was my chance to catch up since by that time I was one block behind. I have no idea what I would have done if I had caught up to him. As I neared flailing my arms screaming ¡Ayudame!, three policemen guarding the same corner realized what was going on. They chased and caught him! With my bag returned and me unscathed, I was happy to spend the rest of the afternoon filing the police report.

Gotta tell you that I surprised myself with my reflexive chasing. I realize that I can only tell this story cheerily because it ended well. I know I was really lucky that the police happened to be around. I am truely thankful.

That was it, my one do-over. Next time I won't be so lucky. Next time I will be more careful. I promise!