I swear that I just wrote about packing a few days ago. I wrote all about the individual baggage that we carry with us. Yet, it is time to pack once again.
I consider my self to be an excellent packer. Some people are stuffers, others folders, I am a roller. To fit the absolute maximum amount of clothes into a bag requires rolling. My roomate thought this was about the strangest thing that he had ever seen. I guess it is kind of weird. especially the fervor with which I pack. I really get into it.
I do not have much choice. I rolled my clothes in order to only bring one mid-sized bag down here. But that was before a few purchases. Now I may have difficulty bringing everything back! The nice thing is that a close friend of mine bought so much, that she needed to upgrade her bag. So in addition to my one bag, I will also be checking a nice baby blue, girls backpack. But don't worry, she removed the key chain that says, "I love Mike".
Yesterday, was my final day of classes. Our final projects were due. The assignment was left very open ended. I spent a lot of time thinking about what to do. I thought while I played soccer, while I watched movies, and while I played cards. But come the night before, I had no idea what to do. Then it hit me! How about I just wing it! Besides, this project was only worth 25% of my grade.
On the morning of my presentation, I asked all of my fellow students to bring some random object to class. I then packed them in my suitcase. Right before I was called to start my project I realized, this was a terrible idea! When it was my turn to present, I began, "This bag is full of the things that I am taking away from Ecuador." I then pulled object after object out of the bag, seeing many of them for the first time, and attempted to come up with a metaphor or representation on the spot. I managed to do this for a surprising 13 minutes. I am not one to brag about grades, usually because my grades are not worth bragging about. But I will say this, my professor was pleased with the originality, creativity and sense of spontaneity that my presentation held. I forgot to mention that this all took place in spanish.
It is with a heavy heart that I have rolled my clothes into tight cylinders. I will not soon forget this place, or more importantly the people that I met here. I can not help but thinking that a great adventure has ended. With my wedding in 50 days, my fiance and I will be moving into an apartment block of 60 young men who are in our charge. Perhaps, the adventure is just changing a little bit.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Upside down frown
I hate hiccups, and the gag reflex, and even the way that when you touch something hot your body automatically recoils. I feel so out of control when my body chooses to do something of its own accord. I guess alot of times this is for our benefit. I am glad that we do not have to concentrate on breathing at all times. But I discovered the other day a new involuntary reflex that I have. Smiling!
It struck me at a time when I saw a group of Hispanic Orphans tackling their group leader. The leader was overwhelmed and taken down by this group of kids laughing their heads off. All of a sudden and without meaning to, the corners of my mouth began to lift. I swear they were up near my eyebrows in one of the biggest and most genuine smiles that I have ever worn. I have noticed this happening with increasing frequency. It seems that I have so much to be happy about. I could say, "Smile, try it out". But instead, don't try it. Just let it happen, and be surprised.
It struck me at a time when I saw a group of Hispanic Orphans tackling their group leader. The leader was overwhelmed and taken down by this group of kids laughing their heads off. All of a sudden and without meaning to, the corners of my mouth began to lift. I swear they were up near my eyebrows in one of the biggest and most genuine smiles that I have ever worn. I have noticed this happening with increasing frequency. It seems that I have so much to be happy about. I could say, "Smile, try it out". But instead, don't try it. Just let it happen, and be surprised.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Crazy!
It has been so hard to find some free time in the past couple of days. Actually, I have had a reasonable amount of free time, but no down time. I have filled my free time with soccer games, cheese cake baking, star counting and similar activities.
I leave this beautiful place in three days and can hardly believe it. Really, I only have one night and one full day left. I leave for the airport at 5:30 on the 17th, so really can not count the 17th as a day here.
I have really enjoyed my time here. It was full of struggles and triumphs, strange foods and stranger people! Kidding, but maybe. I have also greatly missed people back home that I love. I have missed the constant communication with them. I am excited that I will get to reunite with these people in the next few days.
Definitely more on this later, for now, I am trying to make the most of the last few days.
I leave this beautiful place in three days and can hardly believe it. Really, I only have one night and one full day left. I leave for the airport at 5:30 on the 17th, so really can not count the 17th as a day here.
I have really enjoyed my time here. It was full of struggles and triumphs, strange foods and stranger people! Kidding, but maybe. I have also greatly missed people back home that I love. I have missed the constant communication with them. I am excited that I will get to reunite with these people in the next few days.
Definitely more on this later, for now, I am trying to make the most of the last few days.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Friday!
No class today! but still a lot of learning. I had not mentioned that last Saturday, my friends and I left the seminary in search of an adventure. We had decided to climb a local mountain. So, with native friends, we asked a taxi driver to take us to a mountain and when we arrived at TeleferiQo, a very large mountain, we exited the taxi and began the ascent.
Unfortunately after climbing for about 20 minutes, we encountered some adversity in the form of a security guard. TeleferiQo has ski lifts, that one can pay money to ride to the top. Because of this, it is not allowed to walk up to the top. So we decided to check out the ski lift.
At first glance, the $ 4.50 seemed somewhat reasonable. Then we noticed a second sign: Foreigners 8.50. That seemed a little steep to climb a mountain (Pun intended). Instead we left and ate sketchy pizza.
All of that to say, that today, we returned to TeleferiQo. This time, the program was going to pay for us. We rode the ski lifts to the top and enjoyed some excellent views.
From there we left for lunch. I ate guinea pig. It was staring at me while I chewed. I kept chewing, but with decreased fervor.
After this we went to the other equator. The one that was estimated in the 1700's. They were only about 100 yards off! Can you imagine doing that with so little technology? We got some good pictures, and found out why the locals call it, "Gringo-landia"
A very enjoyable day, chock full of fun. Played cards tonight and I won, my prize was an ecuadorian version of a moon-pie. North America and South America, both under the same moon, but with different moon pies.
Unfortunately after climbing for about 20 minutes, we encountered some adversity in the form of a security guard. TeleferiQo has ski lifts, that one can pay money to ride to the top. Because of this, it is not allowed to walk up to the top. So we decided to check out the ski lift.
At first glance, the $ 4.50 seemed somewhat reasonable. Then we noticed a second sign: Foreigners 8.50. That seemed a little steep to climb a mountain (Pun intended). Instead we left and ate sketchy pizza.
All of that to say, that today, we returned to TeleferiQo. This time, the program was going to pay for us. We rode the ski lifts to the top and enjoyed some excellent views.
From there we left for lunch. I ate guinea pig. It was staring at me while I chewed. I kept chewing, but with decreased fervor.
After this we went to the other equator. The one that was estimated in the 1700's. They were only about 100 yards off! Can you imagine doing that with so little technology? We got some good pictures, and found out why the locals call it, "Gringo-landia"
A very enjoyable day, chock full of fun. Played cards tonight and I won, my prize was an ecuadorian version of a moon-pie. North America and South America, both under the same moon, but with different moon pies.
Thursday!
I think that my group has realized that we are really on the final countdown. From Thursday, we have just over a week left! I can not believe that it has passed us, with us hardly noticing. After several hours of class today, the ladies were dismissed so as not to be late for their soccer game. Only in South America, is a pick up soccer game reason enough to miss class. I joined in the game after class. It was a lot of fun. I played goalie for a few minutes. Until I got scored on, by girls. I find it very funny that whenever I am in the field, there is an individual here that wants to switch with me, and so puts me in goal. Then, when they score, he tells me to play the field so that he can goal. I realized today, that I am so bad, that everytime he sees me play a position, he thinks to himself, "Wow! He has got to be better at goalie than he is in the field." and then later when I am in goal, he thinks "Nope, no one could be a worse goalie than that."
We lost power again today for a little while. Mega props to my fiance Ashley, who has done an incredible job being flexible and understanding with my crazy schedule. I miss her a ton. Only several more days of unstable skype chats and laggy facebook chat.
My typing has gotten better though.
We lost power again today for a little while. Mega props to my fiance Ashley, who has done an incredible job being flexible and understanding with my crazy schedule. I miss her a ton. Only several more days of unstable skype chats and laggy facebook chat.
My typing has gotten better though.
Wednesday!
It takes me by surprise! Those things that happen outside of our control that turn out for the best. Today just before dinner, all the lights went out. This was rather unexpected given that I was in the midst of a shower. I finished up quickly, toweled off and left for dinner. When I walked in, I was somewhat apprehensive. After all, It had been a long time (too long) since my last candlelight dinner. When I say candlelight dinner, you may envision a nice candelabra, full of brightly burning yankee doodles. Here, there was one candle, to split between two tables. I only missed my mouth on one occasion, which actually had nothing to do with the dark.
After dinner, our wednesday night plans continued in spite of the lack of power. We had planned a little get together to make cookies. Luckily, the oven runs on gas, so the power outage did not bother us. Never before in my life have i made more delicious chocolate chip cookies than the time I used a headlamp while stirring! By the light of a headlamp and a few more candles, we prepared and mixed dough, and began to bake cookies.
Furthering the adventure, was the fact that we did not actually have chocolate chips. We did have, large chocolate disks. I spent a total of about 30 minutes, braking and mashing and otherwise mutilating this chocolate into chips. I may have accidentally dropped some, but they landed in my mouth.
I am not pleased to say that i lost the bet of when the lights would come back on. I guessed that they would return by 8:09 P.M. I was not awake when they returned after 2:30 A.M. As the evening began to wind down however, we enjoyed excellent conversation, and shared several laughs. I realized then, this is satisfaction. A headlamp, chocolate chip cookies and banana bread, and a group of people that love to be together. I strongly encourage anyone who is crazy enough to try. This Friday, invite over some great friends, flip your breakers off, and spend the evening mixing cookie dough by hand. How sweet is the labor of your hands!
After dinner, our wednesday night plans continued in spite of the lack of power. We had planned a little get together to make cookies. Luckily, the oven runs on gas, so the power outage did not bother us. Never before in my life have i made more delicious chocolate chip cookies than the time I used a headlamp while stirring! By the light of a headlamp and a few more candles, we prepared and mixed dough, and began to bake cookies.
Furthering the adventure, was the fact that we did not actually have chocolate chips. We did have, large chocolate disks. I spent a total of about 30 minutes, braking and mashing and otherwise mutilating this chocolate into chips. I may have accidentally dropped some, but they landed in my mouth.
I am not pleased to say that i lost the bet of when the lights would come back on. I guessed that they would return by 8:09 P.M. I was not awake when they returned after 2:30 A.M. As the evening began to wind down however, we enjoyed excellent conversation, and shared several laughs. I realized then, this is satisfaction. A headlamp, chocolate chip cookies and banana bread, and a group of people that love to be together. I strongly encourage anyone who is crazy enough to try. This Friday, invite over some great friends, flip your breakers off, and spend the evening mixing cookie dough by hand. How sweet is the labor of your hands!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Goings on
I was thinking the other day, for a change. Of a time not too long ago, when I was deeply absorbed in building a sand-sea lion. I am not much of an artist, especially not with this particular media. After a few minutes, of struggling to form the complicated body structure, I noticed that it did not in any way resemble a sea lion.
It was at that point that something magical happened! Someone walked by and said, "Hey, cool shark." I immediately stopped building a sea lion, and stopped to admire my sand shark.
From this I have taken a few lessons. Firstly, never tell someone what you are making. It could prevent you from lying about what you were trying to make. Secondly, we are all unfinished masterpieces. Somewhere along in your journey, someone may have told you what you were. They might have even told you that you were not good at something, or should quit something. But bear in mind, we are still being molded and shaped. The great artist is at work. You never know how you might end up!
It was at that point that something magical happened! Someone walked by and said, "Hey, cool shark." I immediately stopped building a sea lion, and stopped to admire my sand shark.
From this I have taken a few lessons. Firstly, never tell someone what you are making. It could prevent you from lying about what you were trying to make. Secondly, we are all unfinished masterpieces. Somewhere along in your journey, someone may have told you what you were. They might have even told you that you were not good at something, or should quit something. But bear in mind, we are still being molded and shaped. The great artist is at work. You never know how you might end up!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Fourth of July
I love the fourth of July! Every year, I eat hot dogs, wear ridiculous clothes, and spend much needed time with friends, reciting the preamble.
But not this year. Instead, I woke up and enjoyed a lovely breakfast. I then went to church, ate a nice lunch, and bsaically did everything that I always do here. As a matter of a fact, I remembered at strange times throughout the day that today was the 4th. It made me miss home a little.
I played in a soccer tournament today. It was excellent, but I could not help thinking about all of the fun that my fellow countrymen must be having. Tonight however, a close friend had planned a small get together. We ate Cheeseburgers and chocolate chip cookies. We played constitution bingo, until I was red, white and blue in the face. Was that funny? Either way, it isn't true. I don't know what constitution bingo is, and it probably isn't fun.
Today, I did spend a few minutes at the mall. Whilst there, my group of gringos was approached by an Ecuadorian woman who quizzed us over and over about a note that she had, that was written in English! I can not begin to understand why someone gave her a message in English. But after translating it for her, and answering all of her questions we finally came to the last challenge. She asked us to repeat and write down for her how to say something very specific. We listened many times before we came to a group conclusion of what she wanted to say. It was a sight to see! Five Americans and one Ecuadorian woman saying over and over again, "I am fine, in the train". If you are confused now, you should be. But do not worry, the lady is fine...and apparently in a train. Perhaps it is a metaphor? The train could signify, the stages of life. Although we may walk from boxcar to boxcar as we age, the great locomotive continues on its path. But sometimes, I feel like I am nearing the caboose.
I am thankful to live in a country that values freedom! I am grateful for the liberty that we have. I am thankful for peanut butter that does not cost $8! I hope that you all enjoyed your fireworks or whatever independence day tradition that you hold. Dream tonight of patriotism, waving American flags, and Uncle Sam. Doesn't he know its rude to point?
But not this year. Instead, I woke up and enjoyed a lovely breakfast. I then went to church, ate a nice lunch, and bsaically did everything that I always do here. As a matter of a fact, I remembered at strange times throughout the day that today was the 4th. It made me miss home a little.
I played in a soccer tournament today. It was excellent, but I could not help thinking about all of the fun that my fellow countrymen must be having. Tonight however, a close friend had planned a small get together. We ate Cheeseburgers and chocolate chip cookies. We played constitution bingo, until I was red, white and blue in the face. Was that funny? Either way, it isn't true. I don't know what constitution bingo is, and it probably isn't fun.
Today, I did spend a few minutes at the mall. Whilst there, my group of gringos was approached by an Ecuadorian woman who quizzed us over and over about a note that she had, that was written in English! I can not begin to understand why someone gave her a message in English. But after translating it for her, and answering all of her questions we finally came to the last challenge. She asked us to repeat and write down for her how to say something very specific. We listened many times before we came to a group conclusion of what she wanted to say. It was a sight to see! Five Americans and one Ecuadorian woman saying over and over again, "I am fine, in the train". If you are confused now, you should be. But do not worry, the lady is fine...and apparently in a train. Perhaps it is a metaphor? The train could signify, the stages of life. Although we may walk from boxcar to boxcar as we age, the great locomotive continues on its path. But sometimes, I feel like I am nearing the caboose.
I am thankful to live in a country that values freedom! I am grateful for the liberty that we have. I am thankful for peanut butter that does not cost $8! I hope that you all enjoyed your fireworks or whatever independence day tradition that you hold. Dream tonight of patriotism, waving American flags, and Uncle Sam. Doesn't he know its rude to point?
Post memories from Galapagos
A few more pics, and a few more memories! One of our favorite activities was bird touching. Although this is pretty self explanatory, it is certainly not easy. the birds keep up with the boat, and occasionally come close enough to reach up and touch. We spent countless hours on the top of the ship reaching for the plumage of our avian friends. Whenever one would come within distance, one simply screams, "Touch that Bird" and lunges dramatically for the tactile contact. I retired from this sport, the only successful participant. I touched that bird!
And please notice the form as I jump off of the boat. That is a wetsuit.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
The rest of the Galapaos
Journaling in paradise, is little more than a chore. Therefore, I did not do it very well. I can describe the rest of the Galapagos as a whole.
each day began in similar manner, with our guide waking us up at 6:00 in the morning. He called us each by name, and would often include a special and heart warming message. His repertoire of animal sounds is however extensive! He imitates to perfection the majority of the animals on the islands. He would call upon this most necessary skill to help us get out of bed. On the third day, he encouraged us to "wake up please, and bring the soul and body together to breakfast!" His wake up calls grew to be an excellent part of the trip for all of those involved.
I had only one incidence with sea sickness on the trip. This was a rather humbling incident for me given that I consider myself a sailor. I guess, in reality, I am 95% poser and 5% sailor. Either way, I had not expected to be showing any signs of land lubber, at least until I lost my land lubber lunch! Old man sea was furious and must have been heaving three to four foot seas at us! I mean, 70-80 foot seas. I walked out on the bow to observe the plankton, when all of a sudden, my stomach and I began to argue. "I do not want this dinner", it told me. "Well you wanted it an hour ago", I retorted. That is when I came to a realization. Like a three year old child in a toy store, my own stomach betrayed me and began to throw a tantrum. It also began to throw a little more than that. Without going into to graphic details, I spent just a moment looking closely at the water over the side of the boat before excusing myself to my cabin. Strangely enough, a strange sense of satisfaction came over me, and I heard some weird voice in my head mutter something about giving back to Poseidon.
The next day, I felt ten times better. Which is good because of all the adventure that was had. Primarily with the snorkeling. There were rumors of sharks cropping up amongst those of us who were preparing ourselves to dive to the unknown depths. Mostly because our guide told us there were going to be sharks. I was excited and wondered what my reaction would be when I was in the water with one. I did not have to wait long.
After a few minutes of getting used to the water, we were underway. I was brightly colored starfish, Incredible corals, and more than a few interesting looking fish. Then it happened. I saw a shark! I thought, "cool, I want to get closer" so I did. I dove and followed the guy for a few minutes. He was about six feet long, Galapagos shark. Very manly, very cool.
When we returned to the boat, the captain casually informed me that we could jump off of the top of the boat if we wanted to. I wanted to, so I did. I have always thought that scary things were easier to face, if you did not think about it. So after a few minutes, I stepped up to the edge, peered at the beautiful water more than 30' below, and leaped. I shouted a cheerful "wahoo!" on the way down. Later, all of my fellow students joined me.
The rest of our time was spent observing the incredible creatures that inhabit the Galapagos islands. Including but not limited to the elusive Blue Footed Booby (No laughing), Pink Flamingos, and one of my favorites, the Albatross!
I am not a good gift giver, but thought that I ought try to bring some type of souvenir back to the states for my lovely fiance. The problem is that she seems to want almost nothing...except a picture of the blue footed booby. Proud to say, I made it happen!
One of my favorite experiences in Galapagos was seeing the Albatross take off. This particular bird has a wingspan of 6-7 feet! It is simply to big to just start flying. Instead, it clumsily waddles up to the edge of a cliff, tests the wind, and flings itself over the edge. It uses the updraft of wind to gain its momentum. I got lucky enough to see this in action.
each day we would return to the boat and enjoy the best meals that one can imagine. This was an excellent way to allow the things that we had seen digest. Overall our time in the Galapagos islands was cut too short. We returned back to the mundane world. The world without albatrosses, boat jumping, and sea lions. But then I remembered, the world isn't mundane anyway. Just a different type of cool.
each day began in similar manner, with our guide waking us up at 6:00 in the morning. He called us each by name, and would often include a special and heart warming message. His repertoire of animal sounds is however extensive! He imitates to perfection the majority of the animals on the islands. He would call upon this most necessary skill to help us get out of bed. On the third day, he encouraged us to "wake up please, and bring the soul and body together to breakfast!" His wake up calls grew to be an excellent part of the trip for all of those involved.
I had only one incidence with sea sickness on the trip. This was a rather humbling incident for me given that I consider myself a sailor. I guess, in reality, I am 95% poser and 5% sailor. Either way, I had not expected to be showing any signs of land lubber, at least until I lost my land lubber lunch! Old man sea was furious and must have been heaving three to four foot seas at us! I mean, 70-80 foot seas. I walked out on the bow to observe the plankton, when all of a sudden, my stomach and I began to argue. "I do not want this dinner", it told me. "Well you wanted it an hour ago", I retorted. That is when I came to a realization. Like a three year old child in a toy store, my own stomach betrayed me and began to throw a tantrum. It also began to throw a little more than that. Without going into to graphic details, I spent just a moment looking closely at the water over the side of the boat before excusing myself to my cabin. Strangely enough, a strange sense of satisfaction came over me, and I heard some weird voice in my head mutter something about giving back to Poseidon.
The next day, I felt ten times better. Which is good because of all the adventure that was had. Primarily with the snorkeling. There were rumors of sharks cropping up amongst those of us who were preparing ourselves to dive to the unknown depths. Mostly because our guide told us there were going to be sharks. I was excited and wondered what my reaction would be when I was in the water with one. I did not have to wait long.
After a few minutes of getting used to the water, we were underway. I was brightly colored starfish, Incredible corals, and more than a few interesting looking fish. Then it happened. I saw a shark! I thought, "cool, I want to get closer" so I did. I dove and followed the guy for a few minutes. He was about six feet long, Galapagos shark. Very manly, very cool.
When we returned to the boat, the captain casually informed me that we could jump off of the top of the boat if we wanted to. I wanted to, so I did. I have always thought that scary things were easier to face, if you did not think about it. So after a few minutes, I stepped up to the edge, peered at the beautiful water more than 30' below, and leaped. I shouted a cheerful "wahoo!" on the way down. Later, all of my fellow students joined me.
The rest of our time was spent observing the incredible creatures that inhabit the Galapagos islands. Including but not limited to the elusive Blue Footed Booby (No laughing), Pink Flamingos, and one of my favorites, the Albatross!
I am not a good gift giver, but thought that I ought try to bring some type of souvenir back to the states for my lovely fiance. The problem is that she seems to want almost nothing...except a picture of the blue footed booby. Proud to say, I made it happen!
One of my favorite experiences in Galapagos was seeing the Albatross take off. This particular bird has a wingspan of 6-7 feet! It is simply to big to just start flying. Instead, it clumsily waddles up to the edge of a cliff, tests the wind, and flings itself over the edge. It uses the updraft of wind to gain its momentum. I got lucky enough to see this in action.
each day we would return to the boat and enjoy the best meals that one can imagine. This was an excellent way to allow the things that we had seen digest. Overall our time in the Galapagos islands was cut too short. We returned back to the mundane world. The world without albatrosses, boat jumping, and sea lions. But then I remembered, the world isn't mundane anyway. Just a different type of cool.
Galapagos day 2
The days start early here. Early in the morning, my guide, Washington uses the loud speaker to gently rouse us from our dreams. Allow me to rephrase, at 6:00 A.M. when all living creatures should be soundly sleeping, our guide crows like a rooster, and calls us each by name. "Good Morning please my friends", he quips in broken English.
What followed however was incredible. We ate a few crackers and had a form of hot chocolate, before entering into the dinghys and motored ashore. There are two kinds of landings here. Wet landings, which consist of jumping out of the boat directly into the water, or dry landings, that allow you to step onto a dock of some sort. This morning we had a dry landing onto an outcropping of slippery rocks.
After being mesmerized by some very colorful crabs, we continued our walk on the island. My favorite part was seeing the birds. we met them at a cliff, that was apparently perfect for hunting. They could see things that I could not, because at seemingly random moments, hundreds of them would plunge towards the sea together to reap the rewards (Fish-which they eat).
We returned to the boat and enjoyed a hearty breakfast before heading off to our next island. Things move quickly here in the Galapagos! During the passage, I dozed and caught a few minutes of the world cup game.
The rest of the day continued in similar fashion. Excellent snorkeling, incredible views and good time spent with friends.
Please note in the pictures, the beautiful catamaran and the rest of the boats anchored behind me. Sweeeet!
What followed however was incredible. We ate a few crackers and had a form of hot chocolate, before entering into the dinghys and motored ashore. There are two kinds of landings here. Wet landings, which consist of jumping out of the boat directly into the water, or dry landings, that allow you to step onto a dock of some sort. This morning we had a dry landing onto an outcropping of slippery rocks.
After being mesmerized by some very colorful crabs, we continued our walk on the island. My favorite part was seeing the birds. we met them at a cliff, that was apparently perfect for hunting. They could see things that I could not, because at seemingly random moments, hundreds of them would plunge towards the sea together to reap the rewards (Fish-which they eat).
We returned to the boat and enjoyed a hearty breakfast before heading off to our next island. Things move quickly here in the Galapagos! During the passage, I dozed and caught a few minutes of the world cup game.
The rest of the day continued in similar fashion. Excellent snorkeling, incredible views and good time spent with friends.
Please note in the pictures, the beautiful catamaran and the rest of the boats anchored behind me. Sweeeet!
Friday, July 2, 2010
Galapagos day 1
What do Charles Darwin and I have in common? We are both stud muffins! Also both Chuck and I have spent some time in the Galapagos Islands. I fear that his time there may have included more work than mine. I did not know what to expect in the Galapagos Islands, but certainly did not expect to receive a full lunch on the hour and a half long flight. I feel like American flights serve you one pretzel per hour that you are on board. Sometimes flight attendants try to sneak past me without me noticing. I am certain that they are thinking, "Why don't you just go to sleep, so i don't have to deal with you?"
When we stepped off of the plane in Baltra, Galapagos, we were promptly marched across a large doormat. It did not say welcome. It was to clean our shoes of any bad things that we were bringing from the city. I had a feeling that this would become somewhat of a theme for our time in the islands.
We left the open air airport and boarded a bus bound for the Yolita II. I only knew that we would be staying on a motor yacht. I saluted a beautiful 75' catamaran, with sails furled against the wind, as we rode a dinghy to our destination. What I found was a 115' long behemoth of a ship. Immediately on board, we were asked to remove our shoes and thus began our journey.
Our adventure began as do all good adventures, with lunch. This lunch was exceptional, three course meal. Then, we were off! With the white tops of waves brushing against the horizon, I grew excited for the days to come. After a short three hour crossing, I heard the anchor clanking. We had arrived at our first stop!
Our day was not over however. Our native Galapagan Tour guide, Washington, valiantly led us to land. We experienced sea lions and iguanas. The interesting thing about these lands, is that they have mostly been protected from human involvement. No Mcdonalds, no parking lots, only one starbucks. < Lie.
The animals are not hunted, and are not afraid of humans. They allow you to get as close as you like and just watch you. The law says that you can not be closer than one meter. But... I've never really understood the metric system anyway.
The evening ended with a pleasant swim and snorkel in welcoming blue waters.I glanced at the sunset from the bow of the ship, sighed and went to sleep, gently rocked by the waves pressing against the boat.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Galapagos, here I come
Heading to the Galapagos in several hours. I am bringing very little with me. Some cleanish clothes, a heavy smile, and a great attitude. If my camera could take more than 5 pictures on a battery charge, I would take more photos. We come back on Thursday. We will visit several of the islands pictured on the map. I will definitely meet one of those tortoises.
Not much rhymes with Galapagos.
Dogs
Dogs do not speak Spanish. Except for very intelligent dogs. I have always been curious if dogs from other countries have accents when they bark. Maybe?
In Ecuador, dogs are everywhere, they run rampant. In a given day, I see several dogs that just seem to be enjoying their lives of freedom.
In the seminary, there is one dog that I have grown to know. His name is Caramelo. This translates as "candy" or "Sweet". If anyone offers me a candy, all that I can think of is this huge dog and all of his hair. Caramelo has two real strengths. One is barking... at me, and the other is drooling. Always, he has a thick rope of saliva, barely clinging on to his gums, threatening to liberate itself at anytime. As pictured, Caramelos favorite spot to be, is on his back legs with his front paws and overlarge head hanging over the walkway below. On more than one occasion, I have unknowingly walked beneath him and seen a drop or two and think to myself, "I didn't know it was raining". It was not raining.
I have had many conversations with Caramelo about his excessive barking. He normally responds in typical Caramelo fashion, by barking. As a matter of a fact, the only time that he does not bark, is when I am heading back to my room late at night, under cover of darkness. The only time that it is reasonable that a thief or robber may be infiltrating the seminary, Caramelo can't be bothered. He lazily opens one eye, flops his ear over, and continues sleeping. That is my kind of dog.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Strange
I have really grown to appreciate Ecuador. As a matter of a fact, I have developed somewhat of a tradition. If there is a column, I will climb on it. There are a couple of pictures that show this tradition. I leave on Sunday for the Galapagos islands! I hope to find somethings in the Galapagos to climb. Like a giant tortoise. Turtles are slow, I can probably catch one.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Basilica
Today we went to a huge cathedral in Quito Colonial. It is called the basilica. It was built by one of the previous presidents with the purpose of reaching the heavens. Isn't there a biblical precedent for this?
The building itself is incredible and I greatly enjoyed the views as I slowly climbed higher and higher. I kept expecting to see Quazi Modo. I did not. But, I did climb onto a small ledge that was completely caked with bird poop. It is the little things in life, isn't it? I have some great pictures and even better mental ones.
You may notice the very large clock. I touched the inside of that clock. Part of me wanted to reach out and change the time. I am curious if I can convince the entire country of Ecuador that they are late. Probably not. Then again, they are hispanics and as such, usually late.
I now feel compelled to explain that previous statement because it sounded like a generality and racist. Hispanics are event oriented, where as most North Americans are time oriented. The time that something starts is less important here. There is simply a magic number of people that show up, and when that number is present the event can start. Or maybe, it is the specific people that show up. If this is true, then I am never that specific person that we were waiting for.
Enjoy the basilica!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Bothersome
I will not whine or complain. I have gotten a little annoyed with the food lately. It used to be different and cool, but now I have been longing for American food. A couple of weeks ago, we went to a food court at a large mall. I scoffed at the American chain restaurants and shook at my head at those American's waiting in line. "What a shame to come all the way down here just to order a cheesy Gordita". Last week, my mouth watered as I sniffed the colonels, chicken. I will obviously avoid any and all connection with the Golden arches. That is simply a slap in the face. But I have been eating out a little more often and frequenting those things that are nearer to home. In this picture, I was sorely mistaken as to what I was ordering. That sandwich left much to be desired, namely a whole other meal.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Just got back into Quito from nearby Otavalo! One of the largest outdoor markets in South America. The majority of my companions took around $200 and a great attitude. I thought I would blow all of my $40 in Leathertown, but still had the same amount when we landed in nearby woodtown. Very creative with the names huh? Do you know why they call it leather town? I have never seen such a selection of brightly colored chaps.
When we arrived at our accommodations for the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised. A lovely hostel complete with hammocks, outdoor courtyard, and hippies. I promptly utilized the public restroom for a steaming hot shower. Then after a charming dinner, myself and several other American students joined some other travelers to chat for a few minutes. We spoke with Germans, French, Colombians and one gentleman that confused me greatly. It was pleasant conversation, and good company. So when a bottle of coke came my way, I grimaced because it was Diet, but offered it to the 13 year old son of our director. He shook his head no and I brought it to my lips. As I opened my mouth to take a drink a sudden smell of liquor tickled my nostrils. Oops! Now I had a real problem. How to bring this bottle down without taking a drink, and appearing completely obvious. I pretended to laugh at something that someone had said, and handed the bottle to the next gentleman. It was getting late and after so much excitement it was almost time to just chill anyway. we excused ourselves and retired to Reese Witherspoon's, "Sweet Home Alabama".
Movie stores here are far and wide and cheap. I can find almost any movie here including Robin Hood, Iron Man 2, and Toy Story 3 all for the price of $1.25. You might see some guy in the front row get up and go get more popcorn, but it is cheap!
I bought a fake Rolex, fake Ray-Ban sunglasses, a couple of gifts and bartered like a pro! It was much more enjoyable than normal shopping in the U.S. I was called, "amigito" or little friend by more than one vendor as I passed them. I hope they still considered me a friend when I left!
When we arrived at our accommodations for the weekend, I was pleasantly surprised. A lovely hostel complete with hammocks, outdoor courtyard, and hippies. I promptly utilized the public restroom for a steaming hot shower. Then after a charming dinner, myself and several other American students joined some other travelers to chat for a few minutes. We spoke with Germans, French, Colombians and one gentleman that confused me greatly. It was pleasant conversation, and good company. So when a bottle of coke came my way, I grimaced because it was Diet, but offered it to the 13 year old son of our director. He shook his head no and I brought it to my lips. As I opened my mouth to take a drink a sudden smell of liquor tickled my nostrils. Oops! Now I had a real problem. How to bring this bottle down without taking a drink, and appearing completely obvious. I pretended to laugh at something that someone had said, and handed the bottle to the next gentleman. It was getting late and after so much excitement it was almost time to just chill anyway. we excused ourselves and retired to Reese Witherspoon's, "Sweet Home Alabama".
Movie stores here are far and wide and cheap. I can find almost any movie here including Robin Hood, Iron Man 2, and Toy Story 3 all for the price of $1.25. You might see some guy in the front row get up and go get more popcorn, but it is cheap!
I bought a fake Rolex, fake Ray-Ban sunglasses, a couple of gifts and bartered like a pro! It was much more enjoyable than normal shopping in the U.S. I was called, "amigito" or little friend by more than one vendor as I passed them. I hope they still considered me a friend when I left!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Value
I have had a couple of tough days here. I have been sick most of this week and lost a few pounds. I am starting to feel much better, but came to a realization. The value of being in a Spanish speaking country with a Spanish speaking roommate is as follows: as soon as you wake up in the morning, when your brain still feels like a balloon full of sand being pushed through a cheese grater, you have to understand what your roommate is saying.
This is especially true when you are sick and want nothing more than to put your head inside your pillow and pretend you are still dreaming about gracefully dancing elephants.
Since we are on the subject, I have had several rather vivid and strange dreams since coming to Ecuador. I am assuming that this is a symptom of different food, altitude, and maybe even just being out of my comfort zone. I had a rather enlightening conversation with my socks in last nights episode.
I am starting to experience some culture shock. In place of eating the traditional meal that my seminary provided, I opted for the very indigenous taco bell. I think the pronunciation there is (Wimp-y-man). What a shame to be in a different country and turn away from the wonderful things that they have to offer and instead seek solace and comfort in the pre-packaged beef and processed cheesy goodness, with heat lamp warmed tortilla shell. I could really go for a cheesy gordita right about now.
By the way, check out mr. suave, Bartering in the Ecuatorian market. Thinking in my mind, "Don't look too interested. Now walk away, She'll break" All that for two dollar grapes.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Culture shock
Culture shock manifests itself in many different ways. One of those ways is absolute confusion. I experienced this last week at a popular chain restaurant in Ecuador called Tejas Pollo. For those spanish scholars following, this means Texas chicken. I am curious if this is a restaurant in Texas. I am also curious what qualifies their chicken as Texas chicken. Does it come from Texas? That seems like it would be very inefficient. I ordered my chicken meal and was astounded when I looked at my tray and found two uni-sex plastic gloves. My first understanding was that a worker obviously got confused and placed his gloves on my tray. I thought this until I saw other happy customers of The Texas Chicken contentedly gnawing away on their respective poultry whilst sporting the fashionable protective devices. Strange no?
Monday, June 14, 2010
Roofs and dissapearing indigenous
Trust me, this picture of me on the roof looked much cooler in person. And dangerous.
Also, this picture of me and my friend Chad on a bridge is much cooler given that the sign in the background says, "No more than 5 people".
I also added a shot of the children in the Shuar village. Shuar are and indigenous tribe in Ecuador. When we first got there I saw a kid outside of the building and invited him in. He said no and I walked around to where he was. But he was not there. Instead all the school children watching from inside, were giggling hysterically. I asked them where he went and every kid pointed a different direction, including straight up and straight down. I ran around and around that building but never found the kid.
Also, this picture of me and my friend Chad on a bridge is much cooler given that the sign in the background says, "No more than 5 people".
I also added a shot of the children in the Shuar village. Shuar are and indigenous tribe in Ecuador. When we first got there I saw a kid outside of the building and invited him in. He said no and I walked around to where he was. But he was not there. Instead all the school children watching from inside, were giggling hysterically. I asked them where he went and every kid pointed a different direction, including straight up and straight down. I ran around and around that building but never found the kid.
weekend
Wow! what an interesting weekend that I had. My Ecuadorian family was probably the nicest set of grandparents in the world! Aside from my own. After presenting them with the chocolate cake, we were fast friends which only adds further proof to my theory that any woman in any culture loves chocolate. When we got to their house we sat down to a nice snack of bread and hot chocolate. We talked for a few minutes before their daughter who lives next door came over with her family. Her two children were truly a highlight. The four year old named anilla, showed me how she could count in english. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9! I think that when I was four years old, I also probably missed a few numbers, in my own language.
I went to bed with a full belly, eagerly looking forward to the next day. Saturday was busy! Abuelita (little grandma) as I called her owns her own meat business. I was overjoyed to help her in her workshop moving raw meat, and preparing raw meat, and touching raw meat. it was raw. I also helped Abuelito (Little grandpa) with some important paperwork and washing the cars. The food was excellent including a contraband ice cream bar. We were told to never eat ice cream that was not packaged, because it has no health accountability. When Abueltio and I walked three miles to an ice cream store, I did not know how to say no. So, I didn't. It did taste good, but today I hav felt sick all day. I am not certain if it was the ice cream or not. but it hurts so good!
I was sad to say goodbye to them, but was pleased that they asked me for my cell phone number and e-mail adress. It would seem that they enjoyed my visit as well. They have also opened their house to me if I ever return to Ecuador. that makes two countries that I have free housing in if I choose to go! Typically people really are excellent. Unless they have a toothache. then all bets are off.
I have lots of homework to finish, er start in a minute. I could do it, if only it were in English! Then again, I still would not want to.
I went to bed with a full belly, eagerly looking forward to the next day. Saturday was busy! Abuelita (little grandma) as I called her owns her own meat business. I was overjoyed to help her in her workshop moving raw meat, and preparing raw meat, and touching raw meat. it was raw. I also helped Abuelito (Little grandpa) with some important paperwork and washing the cars. The food was excellent including a contraband ice cream bar. We were told to never eat ice cream that was not packaged, because it has no health accountability. When Abueltio and I walked three miles to an ice cream store, I did not know how to say no. So, I didn't. It did taste good, but today I hav felt sick all day. I am not certain if it was the ice cream or not. but it hurts so good!
I was sad to say goodbye to them, but was pleased that they asked me for my cell phone number and e-mail adress. It would seem that they enjoyed my visit as well. They have also opened their house to me if I ever return to Ecuador. that makes two countries that I have free housing in if I choose to go! Typically people really are excellent. Unless they have a toothache. then all bets are off.
I have lots of homework to finish, er start in a minute. I could do it, if only it were in English! Then again, I still would not want to.
Friday, June 11, 2010
family stay
This weekend will find me staying with an authentic Ecuadorian family. part of me wonders if they are paid actors. Probably not. I am a little nervous, for several reasons, but am bringing a chocolate cake along as a bribe...I mean good gesture. Until Sunday.
Discrimination
Mosquitoes are probably the most just species in the world. It does not matter what color you are, what gender you are or even if you are living or dead. They will eat you! Them and their millions of cousins. I think that we have a lot to learn from mosquitoes. Like how to fly, and not be killed by humans.
Philosophy time- There are two types of decisions. Good decisions, and decisions that Spencer makes. My motto for this trip has become, "I will try anything once." I am certain that I am going to regret saying that soon.
Philosophy time- There are two types of decisions. Good decisions, and decisions that Spencer makes. My motto for this trip has become, "I will try anything once." I am certain that I am going to regret saying that soon.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
explanation
Cool pics huh?
To explain them briefly:
The pictures respectively show some of my adventures.
One of the most incredible experiences that I have had so far was my trip into the Waorani village. For those of you that have not seen the movie "the end of the spear" This is the village responsible for the deaths of 5 missionaries in the 1950's. To access the village, we had to fly in missionary airplanes. flying these planes is the ministry of the pilots. They make you pray, seriously. Sitting in a plane the size of a 2 door Camry is a special experience, especially if your ceiling fan at home has more horsepower than the propeller. If you were not God fearing before you entered the plane you will be scared to death of him by the time you leave. If all of that is not enough, throw in a pilot that lets me take the reins for about three minutes. This is true, I asked the pilot if I could fly and he let me! Immediately as I took over we began to climb. It was such an alien experience.we then veered left and right for a few minutes. Check that one off the bucket list.
the monkeys were a fun experience as well. Equally as scary. Monkeys have no shame. They are curious creatures and have five prehensile appendages. take that however you will. I discovered that I have a unique type of animal magnetism. Just kidding, they only wanted me for my dead skin.
The last picture shows me comfortably at ease on a vine in the amazonian jungle. It was a snake. false, it was just a vine. but now I can sing "Tarzan" with the best of them. Ever notice how Tarzans voice sounds like a thirteen year old boy in his church choir?
To explain them briefly:
The pictures respectively show some of my adventures.
One of the most incredible experiences that I have had so far was my trip into the Waorani village. For those of you that have not seen the movie "the end of the spear" This is the village responsible for the deaths of 5 missionaries in the 1950's. To access the village, we had to fly in missionary airplanes. flying these planes is the ministry of the pilots. They make you pray, seriously. Sitting in a plane the size of a 2 door Camry is a special experience, especially if your ceiling fan at home has more horsepower than the propeller. If you were not God fearing before you entered the plane you will be scared to death of him by the time you leave. If all of that is not enough, throw in a pilot that lets me take the reins for about three minutes. This is true, I asked the pilot if I could fly and he let me! Immediately as I took over we began to climb. It was such an alien experience.we then veered left and right for a few minutes. Check that one off the bucket list.
the monkeys were a fun experience as well. Equally as scary. Monkeys have no shame. They are curious creatures and have five prehensile appendages. take that however you will. I discovered that I have a unique type of animal magnetism. Just kidding, they only wanted me for my dead skin.
The last picture shows me comfortably at ease on a vine in the amazonian jungle. It was a snake. false, it was just a vine. but now I can sing "Tarzan" with the best of them. Ever notice how Tarzans voice sounds like a thirteen year old boy in his church choir?
Monday, June 7, 2010
May 30th
Sometimes a fish will jump out of wáter of its own accord and land in a boat. I think that in those times, it must think, “Oh dear, this is not where I expected to be a few minutes ago.” I have spent the last couple of days walking on thin structural beams while I try to be a roofer. I do not mean to brag, but the height would make most people woozy just thinking about it. About 8 feet high.
It is different for me to realize that building a church is ministry, even if it is not direct interaction with people. I shocked myself with the welding machine. I did not tell anyone here, because I was embarrassed.
Each night, when I return to the hotel, I accompany a group of people to the roof of the hotel to look out over the city and see the lights. Last night we also had a shadow puppet show. If you have never experienced this, you are a loser. Try to make a camel or a triceratops.
I am expanding my food vernacular as well. I can now add Tilapia fish to my list of things that I have tried. I have two lists that look very similar. One says, “Things that I have tried recently” the other says, “Things that I do not want to try again”. I am only kidding… kind of.
Tonight I took a walk in the rain along a farm road. It was one of the most fun things that I have done here so far. Together with a group of anonymous adventurers who shall remain nameless, we walked until we reached a fence that stopped us. I won’t tell who was in the group. Even if you torture me.
It is different for me to realize that building a church is ministry, even if it is not direct interaction with people. I shocked myself with the welding machine. I did not tell anyone here, because I was embarrassed.
Each night, when I return to the hotel, I accompany a group of people to the roof of the hotel to look out over the city and see the lights. Last night we also had a shadow puppet show. If you have never experienced this, you are a loser. Try to make a camel or a triceratops.
I am expanding my food vernacular as well. I can now add Tilapia fish to my list of things that I have tried. I have two lists that look very similar. One says, “Things that I have tried recently” the other says, “Things that I do not want to try again”. I am only kidding… kind of.
Tonight I took a walk in the rain along a farm road. It was one of the most fun things that I have done here so far. Together with a group of anonymous adventurers who shall remain nameless, we walked until we reached a fence that stopped us. I won’t tell who was in the group. Even if you torture me.
May 29th
Went to church today at a local congregation. It was great, there were about 25 Gringos and about 6 indigenous people. You know those people that sing harmonies during church worship songs? They crack me up.
The sermon was translated into English by one of our leaders, she did an excellent job! There were so many times that I would have said, “I do not know what he said but I am sure it was very spiritual. As a matter of fact, I sometimes feel like that during sermons in English. Christians are weird.
I am looking forward to our next destination, it is a little more vacation style. I am tired and sore from working or roofs. The majority of the time, I am not actually working but just kind of helping. Today I was working with Harrison the Ecuadorian construction manager, while everyone else went to an indigenous community. I felt cool because the only time that I actually did any work was right when every body passed. I was precariously balanced on an inclined roof beam, hauling some heavy pieces of metal. Just another day in the life I guess.
The sermon was translated into English by one of our leaders, she did an excellent job! There were so many times that I would have said, “I do not know what he said but I am sure it was very spiritual. As a matter of fact, I sometimes feel like that during sermons in English. Christians are weird.
I am looking forward to our next destination, it is a little more vacation style. I am tired and sore from working or roofs. The majority of the time, I am not actually working but just kind of helping. Today I was working with Harrison the Ecuadorian construction manager, while everyone else went to an indigenous community. I felt cool because the only time that I actually did any work was right when every body passed. I was precariously balanced on an inclined roof beam, hauling some heavy pieces of metal. Just another day in the life I guess.
May 28th
It does not matter when we get there, the fun just started at the side of the road!
Some travel conditions are unforeseeable. For example, you never know when you will encounter a traffic jam, or maybe a detour…or an active volcano. Wait.
The day we left the seminary for the jungle, my good friend Tunguarahua decided to blow it’s top. Ridiculous! We passed very close to the volcano it self by pressed on. We were not going to let something small like a natural disaster keep us from our destination. As we continued along the ash dusted roads, we noticed a strange smell. Normally in a van with 15 adolescents, this is expected. But this was different, and sure enough as soon as the burning rubber tickled my nostrils, we pulled over to address our flat tire. On a secluded Andean mountain road, I pretended to know what to do. Luckily there was a gentleman who became a great friend, who could easily join a NASCAR pit crew if he wanted to. We took off once again, passing through mountains with hidden lakes and waterfalls around every bend. I spent a significant portion of the trip with my head literally out of the window.
The adventures had only just begun. I could go on to tell you about downed bridges, and I will. In America, when there is a bridge down, people get frustrated, turn around and drive through their anger. In Ecuador, people smile, turn the wheel a little but, and drive through the river. All I could think about was that silly computer game “The Amazon trail”. I did not want to tell anyone that I never made it all the way to the Amazon in the game because I died trying to ford the river. I expect to have some photos and maybe even videos up soon.
Without expanding all of the details, it is easy to say that we encountered many challenges along the way, but by the help of our supportive community and the holy trinity, we made it. What a beautiful metaphor for life, isn’t it?
Oh yeah, our 7 hour drive took 26 hours.
Some travel conditions are unforeseeable. For example, you never know when you will encounter a traffic jam, or maybe a detour…or an active volcano. Wait.
The day we left the seminary for the jungle, my good friend Tunguarahua decided to blow it’s top. Ridiculous! We passed very close to the volcano it self by pressed on. We were not going to let something small like a natural disaster keep us from our destination. As we continued along the ash dusted roads, we noticed a strange smell. Normally in a van with 15 adolescents, this is expected. But this was different, and sure enough as soon as the burning rubber tickled my nostrils, we pulled over to address our flat tire. On a secluded Andean mountain road, I pretended to know what to do. Luckily there was a gentleman who became a great friend, who could easily join a NASCAR pit crew if he wanted to. We took off once again, passing through mountains with hidden lakes and waterfalls around every bend. I spent a significant portion of the trip with my head literally out of the window.
The adventures had only just begun. I could go on to tell you about downed bridges, and I will. In America, when there is a bridge down, people get frustrated, turn around and drive through their anger. In Ecuador, people smile, turn the wheel a little but, and drive through the river. All I could think about was that silly computer game “The Amazon trail”. I did not want to tell anyone that I never made it all the way to the Amazon in the game because I died trying to ford the river. I expect to have some photos and maybe even videos up soon.
Without expanding all of the details, it is easy to say that we encountered many challenges along the way, but by the help of our supportive community and the holy trinity, we made it. What a beautiful metaphor for life, isn’t it?
Oh yeah, our 7 hour drive took 26 hours.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Back!
Hello all!
I have returned from the land of monkeys and jaguars! I will be updating very soon! There is so much to tell.
I have returned from the land of monkeys and jaguars! I will be updating very soon! There is so much to tell.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Looking for Mogley
The bare necessities!
I am packed and ready to go to the rain forest. But what should I bring? My suede jacket is definitely in my bag. I will be gone for 8 days without access to a computer. If i meet Mogley or Balou, I will let you all know. Then again, doesn't that story take place in India? Never mind, I am still going to look for him. He is probably like 62 and still wearing the same pair of red underpants.
When I left my room this morning, I realized that I am surrounded by the Andes mountians. They are incredible! I feel like God wanted some Cheerios so he made this huge bowl out of mountains. That stands up theologically. Cheerios! The choice of God! New slogan? I think so.
I asked a stockboy in an Equatorian grocery store today where I could find some peanut butter. He promptly brought me to a small jar that was striped with Jelly and margarine. Unique. Instead of buying this, I asked another gentleman. he brought me to the peanut butter, where I paid $ 7.93 for a medium sized jar of Peanut butter. I genuinely feel like peanut butter is an investment. I count it as one of my assets. When the economy is down, it is ok. Because I have three jars of smooth, and one crunchy. Including selections from both JIF and Peter pan.
Time to go to bed. I miss you all.
I am packed and ready to go to the rain forest. But what should I bring? My suede jacket is definitely in my bag. I will be gone for 8 days without access to a computer. If i meet Mogley or Balou, I will let you all know. Then again, doesn't that story take place in India? Never mind, I am still going to look for him. He is probably like 62 and still wearing the same pair of red underpants.
When I left my room this morning, I realized that I am surrounded by the Andes mountians. They are incredible! I feel like God wanted some Cheerios so he made this huge bowl out of mountains. That stands up theologically. Cheerios! The choice of God! New slogan? I think so.
I asked a stockboy in an Equatorian grocery store today where I could find some peanut butter. He promptly brought me to a small jar that was striped with Jelly and margarine. Unique. Instead of buying this, I asked another gentleman. he brought me to the peanut butter, where I paid $ 7.93 for a medium sized jar of Peanut butter. I genuinely feel like peanut butter is an investment. I count it as one of my assets. When the economy is down, it is ok. Because I have three jars of smooth, and one crunchy. Including selections from both JIF and Peter pan.
Time to go to bed. I miss you all.
Lessons in Man
Q: What is manly?
A: Chest hair, Rambo movies 1, 3 and 4, and melting one piece of metal to another.
That’s right, I know how to weld! I was taught by the world famous Harrison, and excellent gentleman and welding expert. Welding is in fact one of the manliest things that one can do, besides applying chapstick in secret. It all starts with cold hard metal, then add one dose of awesome and the metal is together. Using an electrode to generate an electric current that will melt the two pieces together. Myself and 5 girls learned how to do this because we are going to Palora, Ecuador tomorrow and will be doing some construction. In case anyone is unfamiliar with local Ecuadorian geography, Palora is in the Amazon. As in the Amazon jungle, as in that videogame that every child played in the mid 90’s. The one that was not quite as good as the Oregon trail.
Next question- What is both manly yet defies traditional gender roles?
Answer- A me.
When we went on the tour of the seminary, they showed us these fancy new clothes washing machines. They kind of look like a big sink, which is because they are. I washed my own clothes…wait for it…by hand! Sweet! After about 10 minutes of scrubbing my clothes with an oversized detergent bar, my hands were in pain. Still my clothes are hanging up outside. I brought my underwear in my room after hearing several laughs throughout the day though. I understand Spanish laughter pretty well.
Other slightly less manly things:
Being a little sad when your roommate goes home for a few days. I refuse to tell anyone that I am lonely at night now, because it sounds weird. Besides, I am not lonely anyway.
Hearing the dogs bark and wanting to go rush to pet them all. I do not understand many things, including how I can watch a movie like 300 and see endless men killed brutally. But when you turn on Air Bud, I bite my tongue in order to not cry. Isn’t this true for most people. If I see a man die, I think, “How unfortunate”. But when I watched Bambi, I cried like a baby…I mean, I was unaffected emotionally…and it made me hungry.
A: Chest hair, Rambo movies 1, 3 and 4, and melting one piece of metal to another.
That’s right, I know how to weld! I was taught by the world famous Harrison, and excellent gentleman and welding expert. Welding is in fact one of the manliest things that one can do, besides applying chapstick in secret. It all starts with cold hard metal, then add one dose of awesome and the metal is together. Using an electrode to generate an electric current that will melt the two pieces together. Myself and 5 girls learned how to do this because we are going to Palora, Ecuador tomorrow and will be doing some construction. In case anyone is unfamiliar with local Ecuadorian geography, Palora is in the Amazon. As in the Amazon jungle, as in that videogame that every child played in the mid 90’s. The one that was not quite as good as the Oregon trail.
Next question- What is both manly yet defies traditional gender roles?
Answer- A me.
When we went on the tour of the seminary, they showed us these fancy new clothes washing machines. They kind of look like a big sink, which is because they are. I washed my own clothes…wait for it…by hand! Sweet! After about 10 minutes of scrubbing my clothes with an oversized detergent bar, my hands were in pain. Still my clothes are hanging up outside. I brought my underwear in my room after hearing several laughs throughout the day though. I understand Spanish laughter pretty well.
Other slightly less manly things:
Being a little sad when your roommate goes home for a few days. I refuse to tell anyone that I am lonely at night now, because it sounds weird. Besides, I am not lonely anyway.
Hearing the dogs bark and wanting to go rush to pet them all. I do not understand many things, including how I can watch a movie like 300 and see endless men killed brutally. But when you turn on Air Bud, I bite my tongue in order to not cry. Isn’t this true for most people. If I see a man die, I think, “How unfortunate”. But when I watched Bambi, I cried like a baby…I mean, I was unaffected emotionally…and it made me hungry.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Of all things
Good news! I picked up exercising. And when I say exercising, I mean getting tired while doing simple tasks. The altitude here makes it hard to believe. Fact, scientists say that it is harder to breathe in Quito, Ecuador, than it is under water. Fact, my last fact was made up. I did however complete my first daily run today. Maybe it will be a monthly run, I don’t know. A close friend and I ran up and down the “colina” three times. A “colina” is a steep hill. Every time that we were running up it, I thought I was going to die. Then on the way down I thought, this isn’t so bad, lets do it again. Shortly afterwards, I had to go buy a new lung.
It just so happens that when I run, I do two other things. I hum “they’re coming to America” and I think about things. Todays topic was the phrase “I love you”. How nice it is to hear those words, especially from someone that you feel the same way about. I was thinking about the first time it was said. I bet it was really akward. The receiver probably did not know the rule that you should say it back…so they just stood there…loving…and being loved. Then I thought, it probably wasn’t spoken in my normal language. It was probably spoken in the language that Jesus spoke- King James English! Verily I Lovest thou. Still akward. Then again, maybe it was first spoken by cavemen. But they did not have the same connection between love and the heart. Maybe their symbol for love was more like a goat. Then, when they go visit a neighboring village, like stick or rock(Both bustling metropolises of the cave world), they would buy a shirt that said “I Goat rock”. If they were really ambitious and they wanted to tell a woman that they cared, maybe they would give them a sheep? Either way, I imagine this caveman telling this cavewoman how cool her beard was.
People have known for thousands of years about this love thing. They did not always know what it was. Kind of how, we still don’t know what it is. But they did know that it came from deep inside. Very deep to them. In the same way that we say, “I love you with all of my heart” biblically they say, “I love you with all of my bowels”. How sweet? The bowels or the guts. This is akin to saying, “I love you with all of my being, more than myself”. It is actually a very high compliment. And will probably catch on.
When I arrived in quito, I was wearing a tie. This has earned me the nick name “El Mormon”. Yesterday I went to the Mitad del mundo. The middle of the world. And quite literally, I straddled the equator. How cool? I also poured water down a drain in the northern and southern hemispheres. It flows in opposite directions! Directly on the equator itself, it goes straight down. Things are going quite well here. I read a lovely letter from my fiancé. One of many that she wrote me before I left. I am going to breakfast in 2 minutes.
But remember, I goat you all, with all of my bowels.
It just so happens that when I run, I do two other things. I hum “they’re coming to America” and I think about things. Todays topic was the phrase “I love you”. How nice it is to hear those words, especially from someone that you feel the same way about. I was thinking about the first time it was said. I bet it was really akward. The receiver probably did not know the rule that you should say it back…so they just stood there…loving…and being loved. Then I thought, it probably wasn’t spoken in my normal language. It was probably spoken in the language that Jesus spoke- King James English! Verily I Lovest thou. Still akward. Then again, maybe it was first spoken by cavemen. But they did not have the same connection between love and the heart. Maybe their symbol for love was more like a goat. Then, when they go visit a neighboring village, like stick or rock(Both bustling metropolises of the cave world), they would buy a shirt that said “I Goat rock”. If they were really ambitious and they wanted to tell a woman that they cared, maybe they would give them a sheep? Either way, I imagine this caveman telling this cavewoman how cool her beard was.
People have known for thousands of years about this love thing. They did not always know what it was. Kind of how, we still don’t know what it is. But they did know that it came from deep inside. Very deep to them. In the same way that we say, “I love you with all of my heart” biblically they say, “I love you with all of my bowels”. How sweet? The bowels or the guts. This is akin to saying, “I love you with all of my being, more than myself”. It is actually a very high compliment. And will probably catch on.
When I arrived in quito, I was wearing a tie. This has earned me the nick name “El Mormon”. Yesterday I went to the Mitad del mundo. The middle of the world. And quite literally, I straddled the equator. How cool? I also poured water down a drain in the northern and southern hemispheres. It flows in opposite directions! Directly on the equator itself, it goes straight down. Things are going quite well here. I read a lovely letter from my fiancé. One of many that she wrote me before I left. I am going to breakfast in 2 minutes.
But remember, I goat you all, with all of my bowels.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Saturday
Today was a very unique saturday for me. Usually I wake up early and have very productive days. False!
Today I found out how exactly to get hot water in the shower. If I turn on the handle with a blue dot one whole turn, and the one with a red dot only a tiny bit. The interesting thing is the way that I found this out. I dreampt it! Then when I got into the shower I remembered my dream. I can cleanse myself without catching pneumonia. I think that someone was a little confused when the building was built. After breakfast, I helped paint a new house on the seminary campus. Every time I paint, I remember that it is not one of my gifts. I think my arms are crooked because I can not paint in a straight line. It was excellent however to have Danielle, a wisened four year old teach me how to paint. "Arriba y abajo, arriba y abajo." "Up and down, up and down". If only, we could return to the simplicities of life, I feel like things would be better. After all it is biblical to become like little children. Mostly, this is my excuse to act like a 5 year old. I am following the Bible!
This afternoon we went into the small village near the campus. What an interesting place. The main draw there is the shopping. There are tons of stores that sell whatever you would like. My mission is to find a soccer ball. I found sunglasses for 2 dollars. LaCoste shirts for 14 dollars and the best smelling food in the world. I am certain that I will retur to the "panateria" the bakery many many times. There is just something satisfying about eating an Ecuadorian do-nut.
At dinner, I tasted a very interesting chicken. It was a rabbit.
The altitude makes it hard to breathe. I would not consider myself to be in great shape, but am certainly healthy. Today I was slowly making my way up a hill, when a native Ecuadorian ran past me with a smile on his face. I took off after him, but could not keep up. Que triste.
It has been such a pleasure to meet the people that I have met, and smile and pretend that I understand everything that is said. I am probably in culture shock, but am having too good of a time to know it.
Today I found out how exactly to get hot water in the shower. If I turn on the handle with a blue dot one whole turn, and the one with a red dot only a tiny bit. The interesting thing is the way that I found this out. I dreampt it! Then when I got into the shower I remembered my dream. I can cleanse myself without catching pneumonia. I think that someone was a little confused when the building was built. After breakfast, I helped paint a new house on the seminary campus. Every time I paint, I remember that it is not one of my gifts. I think my arms are crooked because I can not paint in a straight line. It was excellent however to have Danielle, a wisened four year old teach me how to paint. "Arriba y abajo, arriba y abajo." "Up and down, up and down". If only, we could return to the simplicities of life, I feel like things would be better. After all it is biblical to become like little children. Mostly, this is my excuse to act like a 5 year old. I am following the Bible!
This afternoon we went into the small village near the campus. What an interesting place. The main draw there is the shopping. There are tons of stores that sell whatever you would like. My mission is to find a soccer ball. I found sunglasses for 2 dollars. LaCoste shirts for 14 dollars and the best smelling food in the world. I am certain that I will retur to the "panateria" the bakery many many times. There is just something satisfying about eating an Ecuadorian do-nut.
At dinner, I tasted a very interesting chicken. It was a rabbit.
The altitude makes it hard to breathe. I would not consider myself to be in great shape, but am certainly healthy. Today I was slowly making my way up a hill, when a native Ecuadorian ran past me with a smile on his face. I took off after him, but could not keep up. Que triste.
It has been such a pleasure to meet the people that I have met, and smile and pretend that I understand everything that is said. I am probably in culture shock, but am having too good of a time to know it.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Ecuador
I am here in Ecuador! What an amazing day yesterday, switching from one country to another. It truly was a carthasis of experience that I guess my body just could not handle. It culminated in me losing my lunch out of a taxi window. More to come later about my roomate Victor and everyone here.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Dont we all carry baggage?
I am glad that there is no restriction on baggage in relationships. Or maybe there is. Each person chooses whether or not to allow people in their life based on the amount of baggage that they carry. I know that at times I have responded in ways that inhibits people from sharing their baggage. I think that if I tried to hide my bag under my shirt as I walk through security tomorrow, i would probably be found out. Each different airline has their own rules and regulations on personal luggage. People really do the same thing. I am trying to avoid the oversized baggage fees, with limited success. I am blessed that people in my life did not restrict the size or amount of my baggage. metaphor!
Either way, putting a few things in your bag that you will live out of really makes you decide your priorities. I barely have room for clothes, next to the Oreos that I am bringing. What can I say? There is good stuff in the middle. I feel like my whole bag is already double stuffed any way(Pun). To borrow a quote from a friend, "A well placed pun, is like a mediocre joke."
I leave in a few hours. I am excited. I miss my fiance, parents, roomates, and America I miss you. But not enough to stay! See you in a few months
Either way, putting a few things in your bag that you will live out of really makes you decide your priorities. I barely have room for clothes, next to the Oreos that I am bringing. What can I say? There is good stuff in the middle. I feel like my whole bag is already double stuffed any way(Pun). To borrow a quote from a friend, "A well placed pun, is like a mediocre joke."
I leave in a few hours. I am excited. I miss my fiance, parents, roomates, and America I miss you. But not enough to stay! See you in a few months
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Days to come
Every few minutes, I realize that I am going to another country within the next few days. When I remember this, my heart jumps a little. I then feel the effects of adrenaline surging through my body. I feel like I need to go jump off of something or climb a tree.
In the same way, I feel like my scooter, "Raoul". My scooter will start up and run for a minute, but when I squeeze the throttle, it dies. I feel like an idling scooter that just can't quite go anywhere yet. The result is that by the end of the day, I am emotionally tired. I am not usually physically tired, so I find myself watching classic American cinema. For example, last night I pondered the underlying themes of Robin Hood: Men In Tights, for far too long. I came to the conclusion that, masculinity is more than just strength. Masculinity is the ability to do good things, while wearing uncomfortable and unsightly pants. I think it is time for me to go to Ecuador.
I have officially moved into my new apartment. This is an exciting thing for me. I tried to give my fiance a tour via skype, unfortunately the internet is not yet functioning. I am pretty excited that this is the apartment that I will start my marriage in. I am tempted to paint it all sorts of colors and design hidden rooms and a bat cave. I feel like I am not allowed to do any actual construction in my apartment though. We'll see.
I am off to buy tights.
In the same way, I feel like my scooter, "Raoul". My scooter will start up and run for a minute, but when I squeeze the throttle, it dies. I feel like an idling scooter that just can't quite go anywhere yet. The result is that by the end of the day, I am emotionally tired. I am not usually physically tired, so I find myself watching classic American cinema. For example, last night I pondered the underlying themes of Robin Hood: Men In Tights, for far too long. I came to the conclusion that, masculinity is more than just strength. Masculinity is the ability to do good things, while wearing uncomfortable and unsightly pants. I think it is time for me to go to Ecuador.
I have officially moved into my new apartment. This is an exciting thing for me. I tried to give my fiance a tour via skype, unfortunately the internet is not yet functioning. I am pretty excited that this is the apartment that I will start my marriage in. I am tempted to paint it all sorts of colors and design hidden rooms and a bat cave. I feel like I am not allowed to do any actual construction in my apartment though. We'll see.
I am off to buy tights.
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