Settled In

     Everything has been going well, and I feel settled into a routine by now. I enjoy life in Quito, but my least favorite part of the day is the seven minute bus ride to school. However, before I get to hop into that mess, I always start my day off with fresh juice. People of this country really take pride in their produce here. Ecuadorian fruit is starting to make a home in my heart. So far my favorite fruit is pitahaya. 

     On the weekends we get to go on little excursions. Some students and I went to Otravalo, which is well known for its market.

    This city has the most colorful market I've ever seen. I just want to stuff everything in my backpack. We had to negotiate prices, and even if I talked them down I still felt a little robbed. All of my little gifts to you will most likely be from Otravalo. 

    My host mother, Pily, has been amazing. She's like having another abuelita in my life, and there can never be too many of those around. She took me to a concert that featured local musicians, and my favorite was Pancho Teran. I've been trying to find a CD of his. 

     Yesterday, Pily took me to the middle of the world! She woke me up and I thought she asked me if I wanted to go to "el centro comercial." Sure, sure, the mall sounds great, but really she meant the center of the world! It was more than a treat; I got to cross something off my bucket list.

     

    I miss my family and friends, but I'm not ready to come home yet. Not if Ecuador keeps feeding me like this:

papas, empanadas, platanos, carne, and tostadas

     Although, the big holiday was Carnaval here in Ecuador, we still celebrated St. Valentine's Day in school. Love you, hope y'all had an amor-filled weekend. 

Chao.