Ways to Say "I Love You"

This is a response to a recent request I received wanting to know how to say "I love you" in Spanish. In English, we only have the one way to say "I love you" and that's it. Now with Spanish being a romance language, you better believe there is more than one way to express it.

Te quiero.

Te amo.

Both of the above sentences reflect "I love you" in Spanish. There are differences as to which one you would use. It often depends on which region or country you are saying it and to whom you are saying it.

Typically, the most common way is te quiero. You would use it with family, friends, lovers, and significant others.In some places, this is the standard way to say "I love you." Let's take a moment to dissect this sentence so you have a better understanding of its meaning. Te is an indirect object pronoun. It replaces the actual person you refer to in the sentence without actually having to say their name. It literally means "to you" in the informal and familiar sense. Quiero is the conjugated verb meaning to love, to want. It is in the first person or the Yo form which means "I." The literal translation is "To you I love." If you want to express "a lot" to the person of your affection, you would add the word "mucho" at the end to say "te quiero mucho." If you want to hear what this sounds like in Spanish, click here to access or download the FREE MP3 file.

The other sentence, te amo, has a little more fire power than the previous one. It contains more passion or lust for the other person. This is why you often will hear it used in telenovelas, some TV shows in general, and in movies. There are different regions that will distinguish the two different sentences and use te amo for only their spouses, lovers or significant others. Again if you use this sentence in certain parts of the world, people will think you are being melodramatic or "over the top" with your expression. Like the previous sentence, te is the indirect object pronoun replacing the person to whom you are referring. Amo is the verb that mean to love and is in the first person (Yo) form representing "I." If you wish to turn up the heat and mean "a lot," you can tack on the word "mucho" at the end. This sentence would be "te amo mucho." If you would like to hear what this sounds like in Spanish, click here to access or download the FREE MP3 file.

If you wish to turn it down a notch or two and want to express that you "like" someone, you could use the following sentences:

Me gustas.

Me encantas.

Me gustas literally means "I like you" or "You please me." Whereas me encantas is a stronger "like" than gustar. It means "You enchant me." School children and young adults may use these sentences when referring to crushes they have. Like the previous sentences, you can say "a lot" by adding "mucho" to end of the sentence: Me gustas mucho. Me encantas mucho. If you would like to hear what these sentences sound like, just click here to access or download the FREE MP3 file.

There is just the one MP3 file which you may download for free to practice using your MP3 player or computer. You will hear each sentence at a comfortable speed twice followed by the same sentence adding the word "mucho" twice. Then you will hear the same sentence with the word "mucho" at a much slower rate twice. Try to practice and emulate the sounds you hear. To download it, right mouse click on the link and select Save Link As. Then specify where you want to save the file. Share this blog with all your friends! I would much appreciate it. Thanks in advance.

Be sure to tell the one you love (or like) that you love (or like) them in Spanish today!

¡Hasta luego!
~Keith

A Legend Has Died

I was at work when I heard the news. A legend has died. After a brief prayer, I decided to research and write a blog post about this intriguing writer. Gabriel José de la Concordia García Márquez passed away in his home on Thursday, April 17, 2014.

The world knows him simply as Gabriel García Márquez. This is the man who wrote the famous work, "One Hundred Years of Solitude." Latin American literature was never the same again. This is the novel that gave birth to the literary style known as "magical realism." Simply put, magical realism inserts mystical or supernatural elements into the normal, everyday world that we live in. This could be a character living way past his or her natural life span witnessing future generations as an example. The novel was published in 1967 and became a smash hit earning him lots of money, fame and the ability to reach political leaders such as Fidel Castro. They were friends.

Márquez was born in Aracataca, Colombia on March 6, 1927. At infancy, he was separated from his parents and raised by his grandparents. Their large home prompted the seed for "One Hundred Years of Solitude." Latin America nicknamed him "Gabo." His left-leaning politics served him well working to bridge the rebels and the Colombian government.

After leaving law school, he took up journalism. The stage was set for his many critiques of the government and international politics. He married Mercedes Barcha in 1958 and after twelve years, they had two sons, Rodrigo and Gonzalo.

The writer in him created many short stories and non-fiction works including "Autumn of the Patriarch" (1975), "Love in the Time of Cholera" (1985) and "The General in His Labyrinth" (1989). He set some of his fictional works in a village called Macondo inspired by his Aracataca birthplace. In 1982, he won the Nobel Prize in literature.

It has been said that back in the mid-60's when his family and him were living in Mexico, they took a road trip to Acapulco. Suddenly Márquez got the inspiration for "One Hundred Years of Solitude" and turned the vehicle right around and headed back home. He spent the next eighteen months writing the novel everyday. This hurt his family financially so much they had to sell the family car just to make ends meet.

Márquez loved the cinema and was a freelance screenwriter. A lot of his wealth went towards Latin American film studies.

Doctors did diagnose him with lymphatic cancer in 1999. Fortunately it went into remission after chemotherapy. He continued writing and strictly reduced travel and many future plans during this period. "Living to Tell the Tale" (2002) published shortly thereafter which was one of a projected memoir triliogy. His health continued to decline. Márquez' brother, Jaime, mentioned that in 2012, Márquez had dementia. But at age 87 surrounded by family, Márquez succumbed to pneumonia at his home in Mexico City. The world will always remember him through the vast works he left behind and the life he led. May he always be at peace.

Why not pick up a piece by Márquez and honor him with his words?

¡Hasta luego!
~Keith

El Día de los Muertos

El Día de los Muertos or the Day of the Dead is celebrated for the most part in Mexico; however, there are parts of the United States with strong Mexican-American influences that also celebrate this holiday. With this important holiday coming up, I thought it would a wonderful way to pay tribute with some informative videos about it.

¡Hasta luego!
~Keith

Are You Ready to Join In?

I came across a neat, short You Tube video on the history of the Spanish language. I want to give credit to PimsleurApproach who I assume created this video. Take a quick look . . .

There is one major error in it at around 00:59 where they say the Moors invaded Spain in the 18th century. That is incorrect. The Moors actually invaded near the start of the 8th century. Also, at about 01:45, the banner above the castle spells the Spanish city of Granada as Grenada. Besides these errors and the implication that Spanish was imposed on the regions they explored and took over, the video was well put together.

Knowing that Spanish is growing and will become widely spoken here in the United States, are you more or less likely to learn Spanish? What are your reasons for learning Spanish? Or, what are you not interested in learning Spanish? What obstacles are in your way to learning this beautiful language? Click on the Comment link below and add to the conversation.

¡Hasta luego!
~Keith

Telenovela = or ≠ Soap Opera

The cultural telenovela transcends television in Latin American countries. It's a basic word. You can place the definite article la (the) and the indefinite article una (a) before the noun.

Many people equate telenovelas to soap operas in the United States. But is that really a correct correlation? Let's take a further look.

Telenovela comprises of the prefix tele- followed by -novela. The prefix is also used in our English word television. The last part, novela, means novel. I don't know about you, but I haven't read any novels that go on and on for years -- just look at "The Guiding Light"! They were on the air for 72 years. That would be quite a long time for a novel, much less a television novel. Perhaps one could equate that to reading "War and Peace"?

Don't get me wrong, there are definitely some similarities. Television novels have a lot of drama just like the United States soap opera. There can be a lot of action, a lot of drama, multiple story lines with very interesting characters. There are fan favorite characters and not so favorite ones.

Soap operas usually have a continuous story line that works its way through for a longer period of time -- one season. It intermingles various story lines from other characters weaving them like a delicate fabric through the story arc. Another interesting aspect is that each story line does not necessarily get the focus on every episode.

The major difference between the two forms is concurrency. With telenovelas, it runs until a definite or finite ending of the series. When the writer has told all it needs to and it ends, that's it. It's all over. They may come out with a sequel if the series was really popular, but it will still have a set amount of time before that ends too.

Now that you know the difference between a telenovela and a soap opera, I have to say that it is a wonderful way to help learn and comprehend Spanish! You not only have good characters, good plot and story lines, good action, but you can really get to know situations, identify vocabulary, build your understanding of Spanish. Besides satellite and cable channels dedicated to the Spanish-speaking population, you can watch telenovelas online. Of course you can do it through subscription services, but don't forget YouTube. YouTube can offer quite a bit in terms of full episodes of telenovelas. One of my favorites is called "Mirada de Mujer". It's no longer on the air as you know about telenovelas, but you can watch full episodes on YouTube here.

Be on the look out for other ones. Try Google searches for popular ones. There are tons to find out there on the Internet.

¡Hasta luego!
~Keith

The History of Cinco de Mayo

Mexicanos and Americans alike love to celebrate Cinco de Mayo every year. But how many of us really know why it is celebrated? What is so important about the 5th of May? What is its connection with Mexico?

Americans know this holiday to be one of celebrating diversity -- of the Mexican variety. Anything and everything Mexican, Hispanic or Latin American pops up as a decoration. There are plenty of mariachi bands playing, Tequila, Coronas or Dos Equis (XXs) flowing, and tortilla chips, salsa, guacamole, tacos and burritos being ordered, and of course, piñatas being broken. That pretty much sums up what Americans know about this holiday. ¡Que triste! (How sad!)

I think with the passing of time and lack of understanding, most Americans view the holiday as some sort of national independence day for Mexico. All I can say is, well, quizás (perhaps) -- in some long-stretch of the word?

The year, 1861, wasn't an "okay" year for Mexico. Then President Benito Juárez had to default on many debts to European countries such as Spain, Britain and France. Spain and Britain made a new deal with Mexico, but France jumped on the opportunity to expand. Why not? France at the time was ruled by Napoleon III. And you all know those "Napoleon" types. By the end of the year, the French forces landed in Veracruz, Mexico to take over the country. Juárez and the government retreated.

The French had 6,000 troops heading to a small town named Puebla de los Angeles which is located in the central-eastern part of Mexico. Juárez, from his brand new headquarters, got around 2,000 men and marched them into Puebla. They now occupied the small town.

The loyal group of 2,000 Mexicans fought hard and gallantly for their country. They were outnumbered. They were out-gunned. They had every disadvantage as any military operation could have. But on May 5, 1862, that all changed.

The French forces came from the northern part of the town with heavy artillery and lots of provisions. They hit hard from daybreak to early evening. The French had lost 500 of their men to only 100 of the make-shift Mexican army. After realizing such a shocking blow, the French fell back.

This one symbolic fight reached many corners of Mexico. It fostered bands of resistance against the French which proved to be too much. After six long years of French occupation and some aid from the United States, Mexico finally did push back the French where they sailed back to their homeland.

Puebla primarily celebrates Cinco de Mayo in Mexico with military parades, folk dancing and parties. It is not a national holiday by any means. To many Mexicans, it is just a day like any other day.

In the late 60s, Chicano activists incorporated the holiday as a symbol of their fight over the European-like oppressors in the United States. Over the years, many Americans spend the day or the weekend closest to it celebrating all things Mexican -- the people, the culture, the food and drinks. It is a time of diversity and fun. For Mexican-Americans, it is a day of pride knowing that as a nation, we all stand together in love and harmony. ¡Viva México! ¡Viva Cinco de Mayo!

Practice your listening skills: Click here to view a YouTube video (in Spanish) that explains the history surrounding Cinco de Mayo. It's okay if you do not understand all of the spoken words. Use the pictures and body language to help you figure out what is being said. Listen over and over to pick up on more spoken Spanish.

¡Hasta luego!
~Keith

Tooth fairy, the Mouse?

As children, we grew up knowing and believing in the Tooth fairy. When one of our teeth came out, we would place it under our pillow and the next morning the Tooth fairy would have given us a coin in its place -- much to our delight.

Spanish and many Latin American children grow up knowing a much different character: el Ratoncito Pérez (Pérez Mouse). This cute little mouse would take a child's tooth which was placed under their pillow. They too would receive a coin or trinket in exchange. It takes many variations from country to country. This time honored creature originated in 1894 in Madrid. In some parts of Mexico, Peru and Chile, he is known as el Ratón de los Dientes (the Tooth Mouse). Other countries such as Italy and France have variations on this little rodent and what he is called in their respective cultures.

The original Ratoncito Pérez had a small sword and sort of a white knight look. Back in 2006, director Juan Pablo Buscarini recreated this fabled mouse into a live action movie. The Argentine director updated the mouse to a more modern look and story line. In 2008, a sequel came out for all to enjoy.

As I've mentioned in my book, So You Want to Learn Spanish?, a wonderful way to learn the language is by learning its cultural aspects and real-life situations. Why not enjoy these two films in Spanish? I did not find them on Netflix, Hulu, or Vudu to stream, but you can watch the trailer to the sequel on YouTube here in Spanish:
http://youtu.be/dQsXTEv9sXU.

You can purchase the original movie on blu-ray through Amazon at this link:
http://www.amazon.com/Hairy-ratoncito-sue%C3%B1os-Blu-Ray-Import/dp/B003RD9I1Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1366494749&sr=8-2&keywords=el+ratoncito+perez.

Of course, you'll find a few children's books through Amazon too starring Ratón Pérez. Either way, I hope you spend some time seeking out Spanish to watch, listen and/or read. It will help you with getting the exposure you need to the language, but also help you delve into the understanding of another culture slightly different than your own. What a wonderful way to get in touch with your childhood and improve your Spanish!

¡Hasta luego!
~Keith

¡Feliz Cumpleaños!

On the 24^th of July, I will be another year older and hopefully wiser. Birthdays are definitely celebrated with cake and candles to blow out. However there are some slight differences from region to region. Let’s take a look at a couple.

When a girl turns 15, there is usually a special celebration which varies from place to place. This special time marks when a girl officially becomes a woman. Large parties, bands, lots of food and drink, dancing and special dresses (like prom dresses, but closer looking to a wedding dress) are worn by the birthday girl. Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay never refer to this celebration as a quinceañera, but rather as a fiesta de quince. There is usually a special mass at the Catholic Church and a large reception with family and friends. Special specific dances are done, reliving past birthdays, socializing and lots of fun are big parts of these celebrations. This is more elaborate than our American “Sweet Sixteen” depending on the family of course.

Children usually commemorate their birthdays with piñatas, balloons, and games. The traditional “Happy Birthday” song has at least 3 variations. I’m sure you already know the melody. So here they are for you to familiarize yourself with…

Version #1

¡Feliz cumpleaños a tí!
¡Feliz cumpleaños a tí!
¡Feliz cumpleaños a [name of birthday person here]!
¡Feliz cumpleaños a tí!

Version #2

¡Que los cumplan feliz!
¡Que los cumplan feliz!
¡Que los cumplan [name of birthday person here]!
¡Que los cumplan feliz!

Version #3

¡Cumpleaños feliz!
¡Cumpleaños feliz!
¡Cumpleaños feliz!
¡Cumpleaños feliz!

Birthday uses the Spanish verb cumplir which means to turn or to reach a certain age. It can also mean to accomplish or to fulfill. The word birthday is a combination of this verb and the word for years (años).

If you have any questions or comments, please add yours below. You may also email me directly at SpanishMyWay@hotmail.com. See you next week! ¡Hasta luego!

Spain's Independence Day

I found the following question sent in by Josh in Sacramento, CA fitting for the month of July. As we wrapped up celebrating our own independence day earlier this week, Josh wanted to know if Spain had an independence day and when they celebrate it.

Through the centuries, Spain was occupied by various people like the Moors and the French. As a nation, they celebrate October 12th as National Day which started in the year 1492. That year, not only did Columbus sail the ocean blue, but King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella finished kicking out the Moors who had occupied the country for over a century. I would say that would be reason for celebrating.

As I mentioned earlier, the French had also invaded Spain. The communities around Madrid celebrate May 2nd because that was the day back in 1808 when the Spanish people rose up against the French who were fast taking control of their region. It sparked what is known as the Spanish War of Independence or la Guerra de Independencia. Unfortunately, that war would not end until April 17, 1814.

Even though the Spanish were not controlled by an outside empire and won their independence like the U.S., they still have many reasons that pull them together to celebrate the rich culture and tradition as a people. ¡Viva España!

I hope this helped answer your question Josh. If anyone has questions or comments, please feel free to post them below. You may send me an email to SpanishMyWay@hotmail.com. ¡Hasta luego!

Bargain Hunting

El mercado al aire libre en Antigua, Guatemala

Mexico and Latin American countries are notorious for their open air markets or as they say in Spanish, mercados al aire libre. It is the place to find many very good quality products. It is also a great place to find some really good knock-offs. Americans, especially those who live near the border of Mexico, enjoy spending time crossing the border to find little trinkets and treasures at an incredible bargain. What is interesting is that bartering or bargaining is expected south of the border. One would say it is kind of an art form all to its own.

I cannot stress how often I would find Americans shopping in those mercados al aire libre and not getting the best price they possibly can for their money. It is definitely a cultural thing. Americans must be put off or feel ashamed, I guess, for trying to bring down a price of something they want from a vendor who apparently lives life very humbly. In a way, we tend to feel like we are taking advantage of someone who is just trying to make an honest living. Guilt falls into play and before you know it, you are paying more for something you shouldn't be.

Don’t fall into that trap. You earned your money just as hard as they earn their money. Become part of the “art form” of negotiation. There is no reason why you shouldn’t and the vendors really do expect it. So give them what they really want and bargain that price down!

Here is a quick tip I picked up when shopping a lot of those beautiful mercados al aire libre. Really examine the product and look for any minor flaws such as a loose end or fear of inferior quality (even if it looks top notch). Find out from the vendor how much they are asking for it. Take their price and cut it in half. Start your negotiation from that price. Move up slowly, but also keep in mind a price point where you will not budget and go over. Don’t be afraid to put it down and walk away. I can’t tell you how many vendors would chase me after I did that with a product I really wanted. After that, they were more willing to bring the price down further. Once you feel satisfied by pointing out any flaws and product inferiorities, settle on a price and stick to it. One of my favorite tactics is mentioning another vendor's similar products and how wonderful they and their prices are. Both sides (the vendor and you) will feel like you've come to an honest and mutually agreeable price. Best of all, have fun and feel free to chit chat with the vendor more. It’s a great way to get to know them, their life, and the culture. Ask them for suggestions on great places to eat. You may get more in valuable information and products in the transaction.

One final thought before I leave you for now, try bargaining with more than just shop vendors. Taxi cab drivers are great to bargain prices down. Happy shopping! ¡Hasta luego!