A few notes from the journal I kept while in Ecuador. Hope you enjoy!
September 17, 2016
I was the first one getting dropped off. Alone actually, which took me completely by surprise.
Context:
I was told I, along with a group of fellows, would be dropped off at the terminal altogether to be picked up by our host families. Things changed.
September 18, 2016
While at the market, I saw a kid chasing after a chicken and thought of nothing but that one scene in Mr. Bean's Holiday.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3IVOiRFX3o
October 9, 2016
I just threw it out the window. I’m gonna pray it doesn’t come back.
Context:
Beetles were a common thing in my house in Ecuador and they took quite a liking to my room. One morning I woke up because I heard one walking around. It even carried my watch! After a little freak out session I ended up tossing it out my window and a couple days later the same thing happened except this time it was flying everywhere. It came back!
October 30, 2016
After Ingapirca we ate lunch picnic style on the side of the road. It was pretty rad.
November 27, 2016
Because it was my birthday, I got the entire, most fattest cuy (guinea pig) there was.
December 3, 2016
Two days ago I woke up to a bird pecking at my window, trying to get in. It continues to happen. My host mom says it’s a sign from my secret admirer. LOL
December 31, 2016
We were so close; and at one point one of the bulls escaped!
Don’t worry, no one was injured by this bull.
Training Seminar
A group of us started jamming out to High School Musical and threw our own dance party. It was pretty epic.
On our last night there I didn’t sleep until 5:30 because I stayed up with Geeta, Gabe, and Maria playing speed. Yeah, it got pretty intense.
During Independent Travel
After lunch, we went off on a hike to “La Casa de Batman” aka a bat cave! We knew we made it because there were bats flying all over the place. It was so cool.
Context:
During my independent travel time, Helene and I went on a trip to the amazon! We got the chance to be real wild women.
Carnaval
Carnaval was great. Hands down my favorite Ecuadorian festivity.
Warning:
Wear sunglasses at all time during carnaval. Carry your phone in a plastic bag. Be prepared.
End
There is still so much more to my year in Ecuador. These notes from some of my journal entries are just part of it. I’ve enjoyed getting to look back at what was happening throughout my year and I hope you’ve enjoyed getting a taste of what it was. Thank you!
