Today was the most difficult day to get through. I spent a lot of time reflecting on the last three weeks and trying to sum up my experience. To be quite honest there is no other way to discribe it then, I do not want to leave.
Peruvians are so much more emotional and so deep. Im not sure what it is, but we sure felt it. So many of the people I met have an appreciation for the land, for eachother, for thier culture. And you could feel their passion. I felt I got something here that I really lack at home. A deeper connection with people. Some believe that you do not need any verbal communication to connect and feel people and know people. There is something to be said about it... In Peru, with such a language barrier, it was acheived. Somehow without any verbal communication I managed to form a bond unlike any I have at home, where we speak the same language. I think that is why is was so easy to fall in love with each and every one of them. In such a short time such a bond was created with many people. Shay said that on all of her other trips she didn't cry when she said goodbye to her tour guides. But here, emotions were a big part of the goodbyes. While Shay and I talked over breakfast she said something I really liked. The friendships I made here is worth more then any stone I layed. And its true. People will never understand the impact of the experience until they experience it themselves. Its never just about the communities and people that we physically help here. Its also a small step to something bigger that each of us will take home with us.
I said before that it felt like home. Never once did I feel any sense of culture shock. I have learned on my travels that no matter where you go you will always find a piece of home. No matter what country, however far away, whatever culture, you will always find that people are people, just living their lives just as we do. They have families, they play with their children, the eat dinner, enjoy a good time, good music, and a glass of beer. They go to work, school, university out to the bar... Its important to look for these things and feel the sense of being able to relate. Instead of picking apart whats different. Always look for the kindness, remember that just because you are told to watch your bags, doesn't mean that everyone is going to steal them, and also remember that people will steal at home too. And for every person who wanted to pickpocket us, 5 people told us to watch out for them. Think about that. See the beauty in people no matter where you go, including home.
From the farmlands, to the mountains, from the ruins, to the historic streets, the elite parties and the coast, Peru is so diverse and it was a pleasure getting a taste of every little part. I will never ever forget my friends who made my time there so worth while, Yessie, Cristian, Nancy, Hugo, Augusto, Pursy, Rebelino, Gabriel, and Ricardo... each of you have a special place in my heart. As well as each and everyone of the group members, Shay, Nicole, Jamie, Karin, Jeff, Jarret, Drew, Laura, Tania, Jessica, Mel, and Lori. Will miss you all. And thank you for an unforgetable experience.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Day 17-18: Lima, Peru
Lima. What a different culture then the rest of the country. The place from my books! Its so exciting to be here! I have decided I am not nearly classy enough for Lima, no not at all. We hooked up with our friend Gabriel again and went for drinks down in the lounge in our hotel. Gabriel is such an amazing person. He was the perfect gentleman, and fantastic host. He showed us a around lima, took us to the finest resturaunts, malls, waited around for us while we shopped, and was extremely caring making sure we got to where we needed to go for the right price. One of the guys from the Casa Rodas hostel came by to drop off a suitcase that Nicole and Shay left behind, and decided to join us for drinks also. His name is Ricardo, or Richard as his friends call him. We chatted over Pisco Sours as best we could and we all just got drunk off martinis and Pisco Sours. Good times. Later, Ronal from the hostel came with a friend, Julio. Up on the top floor where the pool, gym and souk bar was, the staff was preparing for a party. It was a Stella Artios party, VIP only, complete with argintinian super models and the most elite upper class people from Lima. Again, not nearly classy enough to be here... But after a few Pisco sours, who cares!
We lost a few members of the group early in the night to the toilet/bathtub. (one to many stellas) But Shay, Jarret, Ronal, Ricardo, Julio, Gabriel and I continued onto a discoteque, and then another, and then Gabriels apartment. Where we soon couldn't keep our eyes open anymore and Gabriel called us a cab back to the hotel. This is where I officially put myself on Peruvian time. In Canada we start at 9 or 10 and go til the bar closes at 2, they start at 1 or 2 and go all night. Mission accomplished. We slept for a few hours and and then I decided to start my day. Jarret, Jeff and I walked down to the ocean to sit and listen to the waves. Its only a few blocks from the hotel, we can see it from our room :)
At 9 we met up with Gabriel again and he took us to yet another classy, delicious, beautiful, resturaunt on the ocean. Its called, Rosa Nautica. I sat next to the window and watch the waves pound up against the pier. I decided I need much more ocean in my life....
We lost a few members of the group early in the night to the toilet/bathtub. (one to many stellas) But Shay, Jarret, Ronal, Ricardo, Julio, Gabriel and I continued onto a discoteque, and then another, and then Gabriels apartment. Where we soon couldn't keep our eyes open anymore and Gabriel called us a cab back to the hotel. This is where I officially put myself on Peruvian time. In Canada we start at 9 or 10 and go til the bar closes at 2, they start at 1 or 2 and go all night. Mission accomplished. We slept for a few hours and and then I decided to start my day. Jarret, Jeff and I walked down to the ocean to sit and listen to the waves. Its only a few blocks from the hotel, we can see it from our room :)
At 9 we met up with Gabriel again and he took us to yet another classy, delicious, beautiful, resturaunt on the ocean. Its called, Rosa Nautica. I sat next to the window and watch the waves pound up against the pier. I decided I need much more ocean in my life....
Day 16: Chinchero
Macchu Pichcu was amazing, and we were all quite exchausted from the hike. We went out for lunch before boarding the train back to Olataytamba to catch the bus to Chinchero. We arrived late at the most beautiful hostel/hotel I have ever seen. By far my favorite place we have stayed at. It was very rustic looking, and extremely cozy. They had two sweet little dogs, a couple of kids and the best food ever! (Will post photos once I get home) I would come back to chinchero just to stay here for sure! Chinchero gets even better. We visited a beautiful lake where Pursy said there used to be a village. The legend says that this lake once was a valley with a a small village. In the center was a church. One day there was a wedding happening in the church. there was food and lots of people. Somebody notice a man was there tht didnt belong. He asked for food because he was hungry and he was refused. Some parts of the story arent 100% clear, but I remember that eventually somebody gave the man food and then said to climb the mountain and when they get to the top there would be some sort of reward, some treasure. But they were not to turn around while climbing the mountain This person dissobeyed and turned around anyways. When the did, they saw the village start to fill up with water from all directions. soon the entire village was under water. And the person turned to stone. And that is the story of the lake. (I hope I got it all right)
After visiting the lake, we had a very special dinner planned. Pursy was taking us to his house to meet his family, who were going to feed us a traditional peruvian meal and play for us some wonderful music. His family is so beautiful! all the women were dressed in traditional Quechua clothing and the men wore vests and woven hats, also traditional. Uncles, aunts, parents and grandparents, children and spouses. Everybody. We were greeted with hugs, kisses and confetti on the head, put there by the grandmother. Im not sure what the confetti meant, but im sure it was a welcoming thing. Pursy and Rebelino played us an andean tune on the flute and drum and then we went to eat. We sat on llama skin rugs at a long table. We ate like KINGS! there was Quinoa salad, rice, some kind of bean dish.... and a traditional and very popular in Peru, guinea pig. It tasted kinda like.... duck. I think. It was such a beautiful experience with such beautiful people. I really dont think we could have gotten a better tour, or better guides. I would highly recommend Cousin Tours to anyone who wishes to spend some time in Cusco. After lunch, we were shown outside in the yard, the family hard at work making beautiful weavings. They spin the wool and then dye it using natural plant dyes in clay pots. The clay pots were place upon a mound of clay on the ground wish was a stove and had hot coals burning underneath. They deminstrated to us what plant they first used to clean the wool. It was a root from a cactus. They grate a little bit into a bowl of water and then scrub the wool clean. And in a minute or so it is beautifully clean. They also use this root to wash their hair and clothes. I really wish I could get my hands on some, but it only grows up high in the andes. They showed us the different plants they used for different colors, same as at the alpaca farm in Huancayo (if you remember) But this time we were shown the dying process. They would mix into the boiling clay pots, a bit of which ever plant, and then add a mineral to make the color permanent. In a matter of minutes it comes out a beautiful natural color, preserving the beautiful andean traditions of using only natural. The weaving is all done by hand and takes incredible detail and time. Some of the larger pieces take up to a month. If I hadn't spent most of my money by this point I would have picked up piece woven by Pursy's family. Because I was there and saw the work being done, I bought some small pieces however and took lots of photos, preserving the memory for myself.
Once we got back into Cusco we met up to go for our last dinner. This time Puma came with us. Puma is another member of Pursy's family who is a shaman, whom we thought was going to come with us to Macchupicchu but did not. It was such an honor to meet this man, he is very charming, outgoing and a good sense of humour. He told us a beautiful story about a humming bird and a condor. But that is better left not coming out of my mouth, I could never tell it quite as beautifully as he did.
We ate at a fabulous resturant with wonderful peruvian entertainment. First was a flute band who played the most amazing classical medly on there flutes. Next were some dancers. Quechua, spanish, and andean traditional dance with full on costumes. It was so much fun! All I could think of was, Oksana and mom would love this :) We stayed one last night at our fabulous Royal Inka Hotel and then were seen off at the airport by Rebelino. Lima, here we come...
After visiting the lake, we had a very special dinner planned. Pursy was taking us to his house to meet his family, who were going to feed us a traditional peruvian meal and play for us some wonderful music. His family is so beautiful! all the women were dressed in traditional Quechua clothing and the men wore vests and woven hats, also traditional. Uncles, aunts, parents and grandparents, children and spouses. Everybody. We were greeted with hugs, kisses and confetti on the head, put there by the grandmother. Im not sure what the confetti meant, but im sure it was a welcoming thing. Pursy and Rebelino played us an andean tune on the flute and drum and then we went to eat. We sat on llama skin rugs at a long table. We ate like KINGS! there was Quinoa salad, rice, some kind of bean dish.... and a traditional and very popular in Peru, guinea pig. It tasted kinda like.... duck. I think. It was such a beautiful experience with such beautiful people. I really dont think we could have gotten a better tour, or better guides. I would highly recommend Cousin Tours to anyone who wishes to spend some time in Cusco. After lunch, we were shown outside in the yard, the family hard at work making beautiful weavings. They spin the wool and then dye it using natural plant dyes in clay pots. The clay pots were place upon a mound of clay on the ground wish was a stove and had hot coals burning underneath. They deminstrated to us what plant they first used to clean the wool. It was a root from a cactus. They grate a little bit into a bowl of water and then scrub the wool clean. And in a minute or so it is beautifully clean. They also use this root to wash their hair and clothes. I really wish I could get my hands on some, but it only grows up high in the andes. They showed us the different plants they used for different colors, same as at the alpaca farm in Huancayo (if you remember) But this time we were shown the dying process. They would mix into the boiling clay pots, a bit of which ever plant, and then add a mineral to make the color permanent. In a matter of minutes it comes out a beautiful natural color, preserving the beautiful andean traditions of using only natural. The weaving is all done by hand and takes incredible detail and time. Some of the larger pieces take up to a month. If I hadn't spent most of my money by this point I would have picked up piece woven by Pursy's family. Because I was there and saw the work being done, I bought some small pieces however and took lots of photos, preserving the memory for myself.
Once we got back into Cusco we met up to go for our last dinner. This time Puma came with us. Puma is another member of Pursy's family who is a shaman, whom we thought was going to come with us to Macchupicchu but did not. It was such an honor to meet this man, he is very charming, outgoing and a good sense of humour. He told us a beautiful story about a humming bird and a condor. But that is better left not coming out of my mouth, I could never tell it quite as beautifully as he did.
We ate at a fabulous resturant with wonderful peruvian entertainment. First was a flute band who played the most amazing classical medly on there flutes. Next were some dancers. Quechua, spanish, and andean traditional dance with full on costumes. It was so much fun! All I could think of was, Oksana and mom would love this :) We stayed one last night at our fabulous Royal Inka Hotel and then were seen off at the airport by Rebelino. Lima, here we come...
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Day 15: Macchu Picchu
We boarded Inka Rail, en route to Aguas Caliente at the base of Macchu Picchu. The train followed along the Urubamba river through the Sacred Valley of the Inkas and with windows all around, we had a spectacular view of the Valley. We watched as the mountains went from dry, and brown with tall eucalyptus trees, to lush and green, and almost jungle. The mountains here are somewhat different then at home. Our mountains have a much larger base to them, these ones here shoot straight up. We arrived in Aguas Caliente around 5, grabbed our luggage and walked through endless markets up steep and narrow cobblestone streets to our hotel. Our hotel here was called, " Plaza Andina". We went to grab a bite and then call it a night because we had to get up at 3:30 to get in line for the bus to Macchu Picchu. I dawdled a wee bit before going out eat and walked into a jewelry store. There was a man sitting at the table making jewelry and when I walked in, he looked up to greet me, with sparkilng eyes and a kind smile he winked and said, "hola". I loved him. He just had a soul that drew you rignt in... He had long hair about mid back, and just a kindness and gentleness about him, im sure everyone who met him loved him. He told me he made all the jewelry, stone and silver, and other beautiful stone work. He introduced himself as Sara, followed by a hand shake and kiss. (it is a traditional way to greet here in peru, with a kiss on the cheek.) He then decided to show me another part of the store, which seemed to be closed at the time, but it was a gallery full of all his beautiful paintings. They were paintings of Macchu Picchu, Inka triology symbols with condors, pumas, and snakes. spirits, the sacred valley. Very spiritual artwork. What a talent. How I knew to walk into the right store... Anyways, it seems everywhere I go I just fall in love with the people. Its so easy... I would have loved to buy a painting from him, but I just cant afford to keep buying paintings!
Karin and I (and everyones else) had requested a wake up call for the next morning. We had also attempted to set the alarm clock... Our wake up was to be at 330. The alarm never went off, and the phone never rang. We woke up to the sound of a rooster crowing. I guess that was our wake up call! We packed our bags and walked down to the bus stop. There was already people in line and more on their way. The bus ride was quite an amazing climb up a switchback up to the high andes. when we got to the check point, we got out and walked. up a few flights of stairs.. but that was nothing. The most beautiful and overwhelming feeling I have ever had happened when we reached the top of our climb. I have waited and waited, and come all this way. And there it was the anceint Inka city of Macchu Picchu. All I wanted to do was cry. About 20 minutes had passed before I even took a picture. I just sat and stared in awe. Soon enough, Pursy gathered us up for our history lesson. He is such a thourogh and informative guide. We learned many things about Macchu Picchu. one thing being that the city itself is not named Macchu Picchu, but that is the name of the mountain to the ?north. The City's name in still unknown but there are some thoughts on what it might be however. The man who discovered it in 1911 was told buy a local farmer that their might be some ruins up there (pointed) on Macchu Picchu. It wasn't, but was in the middle of three mountains. But he decided its name was Macchu Picchu. The man was an american by the name of Hiram Bingham. He found many artifacts, such as pottery, textiles, tools, etc. and He brought them all back to the united states with him and still today they remain in Yale universtity. Which is tragic for Peru. Thier history should be preserved in their own country not the united states.... :( More and more things we learned... the Inkas had an irrigation system running through the entire city, trenches carved out of the stone running down each street and into beautiful fountains. And then, while we were in one of the houses and pursy was telling us what each room was for he showed us a small room with a small hole in the floor... it was a bathroom! There was a completely different plumming system running through the city for sewage. How fantastic is this place!!
Next we climbed up Waynapicchu to get a fabulous view of Macchu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Waynapicchu is the tall tall mountain in the background of Macchu Picchu when you see pictures... the Inka trail goes all the way to the top. It was the most difficult hike I have ever done. Mind you I dont do much hiking.... But it switch backed all the way up one side. Inka stonework made stairs all the way up... it was so rewarding getting to the top. This hike was so dangerous too, its not like in Canada where we have regulations and such, where railing will be placed where its dangerous or boardwalks will be built where the footining isnt safe... no no nothing like that here. It was straight over cliff edges and sometimes extremely narrow pathways... the stairs ranged from narrow short steps to steps that were a foot tall! 5 foot wide to 1 foot wide... some steps were tilted so you never really could get your foooting on them. Near the top were more ruins. there were a few houses and agricultural terraces.. who lived all the way up there? I dont know but they were crazy. The stairs going throught the terraces were so steep that you had to climb up and down them like a ladder. At the very very top, there was a cluster of large boulders that people were climbing all over. You could easily slip on the smoothh side of these big rocks and with all the people, with huge backpacks and what not, its not a surprise that people have fallen off. I got out of there as quick as possible, didnt even get a picture. I really didnt feel like falling off of Waynapicchu. But mind you, if I was going to die, that would be a not so bad way, right? In macchu picchu? I can just see the headlines now...
Karin and I (and everyones else) had requested a wake up call for the next morning. We had also attempted to set the alarm clock... Our wake up was to be at 330. The alarm never went off, and the phone never rang. We woke up to the sound of a rooster crowing. I guess that was our wake up call! We packed our bags and walked down to the bus stop. There was already people in line and more on their way. The bus ride was quite an amazing climb up a switchback up to the high andes. when we got to the check point, we got out and walked. up a few flights of stairs.. but that was nothing. The most beautiful and overwhelming feeling I have ever had happened when we reached the top of our climb. I have waited and waited, and come all this way. And there it was the anceint Inka city of Macchu Picchu. All I wanted to do was cry. About 20 minutes had passed before I even took a picture. I just sat and stared in awe. Soon enough, Pursy gathered us up for our history lesson. He is such a thourogh and informative guide. We learned many things about Macchu Picchu. one thing being that the city itself is not named Macchu Picchu, but that is the name of the mountain to the ?north. The City's name in still unknown but there are some thoughts on what it might be however. The man who discovered it in 1911 was told buy a local farmer that their might be some ruins up there (pointed) on Macchu Picchu. It wasn't, but was in the middle of three mountains. But he decided its name was Macchu Picchu. The man was an american by the name of Hiram Bingham. He found many artifacts, such as pottery, textiles, tools, etc. and He brought them all back to the united states with him and still today they remain in Yale universtity. Which is tragic for Peru. Thier history should be preserved in their own country not the united states.... :( More and more things we learned... the Inkas had an irrigation system running through the entire city, trenches carved out of the stone running down each street and into beautiful fountains. And then, while we were in one of the houses and pursy was telling us what each room was for he showed us a small room with a small hole in the floor... it was a bathroom! There was a completely different plumming system running through the city for sewage. How fantastic is this place!!
Next we climbed up Waynapicchu to get a fabulous view of Macchu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Waynapicchu is the tall tall mountain in the background of Macchu Picchu when you see pictures... the Inka trail goes all the way to the top. It was the most difficult hike I have ever done. Mind you I dont do much hiking.... But it switch backed all the way up one side. Inka stonework made stairs all the way up... it was so rewarding getting to the top. This hike was so dangerous too, its not like in Canada where we have regulations and such, where railing will be placed where its dangerous or boardwalks will be built where the footining isnt safe... no no nothing like that here. It was straight over cliff edges and sometimes extremely narrow pathways... the stairs ranged from narrow short steps to steps that were a foot tall! 5 foot wide to 1 foot wide... some steps were tilted so you never really could get your foooting on them. Near the top were more ruins. there were a few houses and agricultural terraces.. who lived all the way up there? I dont know but they were crazy. The stairs going throught the terraces were so steep that you had to climb up and down them like a ladder. At the very very top, there was a cluster of large boulders that people were climbing all over. You could easily slip on the smoothh side of these big rocks and with all the people, with huge backpacks and what not, its not a surprise that people have fallen off. I got out of there as quick as possible, didnt even get a picture. I really didnt feel like falling off of Waynapicchu. But mind you, if I was going to die, that would be a not so bad way, right? In macchu picchu? I can just see the headlines now...
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
Day 14: Cusco
Well we boarded the plane to Cusco, almost missed it.. but we didn't, good thing... The flight was short and sweet and when we arrived we were greeted by our guides, Pursy and Rebelino. They took us to city center to our hotel so we can get settled. Our hotel is called Royal inka hotel. It is so classy, we love it :)
We had snacks and naps and went on our first tour. I had no idea there were so many Inka ruins, they only ever talk bout Macchu Picchu ... So we went to our first set of ruins. Inka stone work is incredible! I have seen it before but I never really had a handle on how ingenious and brilliant it is until seeing it in person. wow. It is surreal, almost cartoon like. Each piece fits together perfectly, with not a single gap in between. They did this by carving the stone so that it is either concave or convexed... Not only that, but the surface that makes up the wall is also carved out so it is perfectly smooth, and rounded inwards at the seams. This is Inka imperialist style. Only used for royalty or religious sectors. The domestic and agriculture buildings were just plain stone. They had very tall thatched roofs with window on either side. they took advantage of the wind so that it kept the inside cool. They would store vegetables inside their houses and they would keep for a long time. there was so much information about the inkas thrown at us its hard to write it all. Pursy is a fantastic guide who is very very informative. There won't be much time in cusco before we head out to see more ruins, and then board the train to Aguas Caliente. We are one day closer to Macchu Picchu...
We had snacks and naps and went on our first tour. I had no idea there were so many Inka ruins, they only ever talk bout Macchu Picchu ... So we went to our first set of ruins. Inka stone work is incredible! I have seen it before but I never really had a handle on how ingenious and brilliant it is until seeing it in person. wow. It is surreal, almost cartoon like. Each piece fits together perfectly, with not a single gap in between. They did this by carving the stone so that it is either concave or convexed... Not only that, but the surface that makes up the wall is also carved out so it is perfectly smooth, and rounded inwards at the seams. This is Inka imperialist style. Only used for royalty or religious sectors. The domestic and agriculture buildings were just plain stone. They had very tall thatched roofs with window on either side. they took advantage of the wind so that it kept the inside cool. They would store vegetables inside their houses and they would keep for a long time. there was so much information about the inkas thrown at us its hard to write it all. Pursy is a fantastic guide who is very very informative. There won't be much time in cusco before we head out to see more ruins, and then board the train to Aguas Caliente. We are one day closer to Macchu Picchu...
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Day 13: Leaving Huancayo
I never thought saying goodbye would be so hard. Its amazing in such a short time the kind of bond you can create with a person. The kindness that our friends in Huancayo showed us is more then I can explain. Each and every one of them made it so comfortable to be there and it felt like home in no time at all. Nancy and Yessie arranged a tour for us on our last day, to see some of the country side we hadn't seen yet. We drove out of Huancayo, through a few small towns and into the country to the beautiful farmlands of the Andes. We stopped to hike up a beautiful cobblestone trail to the top of a mountain to see some ancient Wankan ruins. The Wankas were a civilization that lived in the area in the same time as the Incas. (but nowhere near the Incas). They were a much stronger civilization and extremely strategic in the building of there city. It overlooks the mountain in all directions. They were wiped out by the spanish however, same as the Incas. it was very warm and sunny, and although we were exhausted by the time we reached the top, it was worth it, to experience the ruins. As well as the incredible view of Huancayo and surrounding area. The countryside was some of the most beautiful I had ever seen, old tapia and adobe style houses, ruins, freshly plowed fields ready to be planted, some already being harvested by old women wearing traditional layered skirts with aprons vests and hats. Towering over everything were beautiful eucalyptus trees, the air was fresh and clean with the slight scent of eucalyptus. It was quiet and peaceful, not like the city. There were donkeys, sheep and cows grazing on the land.. Its the kind of peaceful and simple life that I dream of. Cristian says its only about 10 soles/meter for land out there. That is less then 5 dollars CND....
Driving back down the mountain side, we stopped in a little village to see the oldest church in Huancayo. It is 450 years old. Beautiful, like something you would see in the movies. it was so... incredible. And cobblestone walkway leading over a bridge and all the way up to the front door.
On the ride there and back, I got to sit beside Cristian. It was nice having him near so I could ask questions about things. He and Yessie are so helpful anytime we have questions about the culture or, anything. So we chatted a bit and he shared with me some photos of himself when he was younger and his family. It was so nice getting to spend a little extra time getting
to know him. Wish I had even a few more days to get to know him better. And Yessie too...
Our farewell was rushed and chaotic. But we hugged and said our thank yous, and goodbyes. I cried when I got on the bus. Some people asked what the best part of the trip was, and by far, it was making friends with the locals. I left a piece of my heart in Huancayo today. And one day soon I will be back for it.
Driving back down the mountain side, we stopped in a little village to see the oldest church in Huancayo. It is 450 years old. Beautiful, like something you would see in the movies. it was so... incredible. And cobblestone walkway leading over a bridge and all the way up to the front door.
On the ride there and back, I got to sit beside Cristian. It was nice having him near so I could ask questions about things. He and Yessie are so helpful anytime we have questions about the culture or, anything. So we chatted a bit and he shared with me some photos of himself when he was younger and his family. It was so nice getting to spend a little extra time getting
to know him. Wish I had even a few more days to get to know him better. And Yessie too...
Our farewell was rushed and chaotic. But we hugged and said our thank yous, and goodbyes. I cried when I got on the bus. Some people asked what the best part of the trip was, and by far, it was making friends with the locals. I left a piece of my heart in Huancayo today. And one day soon I will be back for it.
Day 12: last day of work
Last day of working in Huancayo today and it has proven to be a rewarding experience. although we will not see the completion of the school, we feel good knowing that we helped to get it one step closer. One day it will be full of children and will hopefully be the beginning of a new way of schooling in huancayo. Be able to working side by side with the foreman, Maestro Augusto, was a rewarding experience in itself. he is an easy going guy with a sense of humour. Communicating was easy, he spoke zero english but with the help of our "pocito espanol" and a lot of hand signals we managed to get quite a bit of work done in the admin building. Its nice to be able to visualize what the entire place will look like when it is completed. the classrooms are already done, they have tiled floors and large windows and big fancy doors... the walkway that we worked on looked something like a labrynth, twisting and turning around what will be gardens and a meditations and chess area. There is a large grassy area for the kids to play if they like. The brick and cement keep the buildings cool in the day time. I am unsure whether or not Lizette and her family will be a permanent residence on the property after the completion of the school. But for the meantime it is necessary and quite a privilage for us to be able to see the daily life of this woman and her child while working at the jobsite. Just to see her out with Kimberly doing the washing, dishes, doing their hair or playing. Getting to play with Kimberly was also such a privilage, and great way to take a break from work :P Because we completed the walkway we got a chance to work in the gardens. Only preping them however, removing large rocks and grass. It was a little sad knowing we would not be back the following monday to keep working with the group, Yessie, Augusto... and have Nancy bring lunch at 1. Its so funny how easily one can fall into a routine. But mostly it will be sad that we wont get to see any of them again.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Day 11: When in Rome
Today is our second last day of working on the school. We finished the walkway we started last week and feels great to be done. A few of us went to help Maestro Augusto lay bricks on the second floor of the admin building, as well as finish off the roof. Laying bricks is kinda fun, we wet the bricks really good, mix up some cement and dirt and water, slop it on ans lay the bricks. After the walls are done they get covered in a layer of cement for a smooth finish which can be painted later. this is a very common way to build here. Haven't seen any 2x4's and drywall yet. Before the walls can get covered, the bricks must be soaked in water. So I had the lovely job of hosing down the walls of the bathroom upstairs. After a bit, Augusto was ready to start wiring. So he tosses up an extension cord and brings up a little circular saw. He motions to jeff to dry his hands so he can hold the plug in the socket so it wouldnt fall out. It properly fit and had to be held in place in order for it to work. I told him my hands are already dry so I would hold it for him. Augusto grabbed a bucket, turns it over next to the wall and stands on it. I follow him over to the wall with the plug and extension cord in hand right into the massive puddle of water on the floor from wetting the bricks earlier. (but its a good thing my hands weren't wet) I held the plug in place while he dug out a place in the bricks to put the wires for the light, hoping he didnt fall of the tippy bucket. Im pretty sure they teach you in elementry not to do this kind of thing. Haha.. when in Rome...
After work today we were going to a resturant to eat and learn how to salsa! Yessie brought a friend of hers who knows how to dance really good to teach us how to salsa and merengue. we had the whole upper floor of the resturant. It was so much fun! we invited everyone from the office and they brought along some friends with them too. Just a we bit into the dance lesson Nancy's husband and little girl came. We see this sweet little girl about 7 or 8 run up the stairs and right to her mothers side and announce, "HELLO MY FRIENDS!" in her bestest english ever! She had so much fun dancing with us. as did everyone! Cristian came, Augusto came all dressed to the nines, and few other friends from the office also showed up. It was really great time with everybody and I have lots of pictures to remember it. Tomorrow will be our last day working at the school. I am really sad to not be returning monday and also a little sad not knowing when it will be ready for the kids to start attending. But Im happy knowing we helped to get it closer to that point.
After work today we were going to a resturant to eat and learn how to salsa! Yessie brought a friend of hers who knows how to dance really good to teach us how to salsa and merengue. we had the whole upper floor of the resturant. It was so much fun! we invited everyone from the office and they brought along some friends with them too. Just a we bit into the dance lesson Nancy's husband and little girl came. We see this sweet little girl about 7 or 8 run up the stairs and right to her mothers side and announce, "HELLO MY FRIENDS!" in her bestest english ever! She had so much fun dancing with us. as did everyone! Cristian came, Augusto came all dressed to the nines, and few other friends from the office also showed up. It was really great time with everybody and I have lots of pictures to remember it. Tomorrow will be our last day working at the school. I am really sad to not be returning monday and also a little sad not knowing when it will be ready for the kids to start attending. But Im happy knowing we helped to get it closer to that point.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Day 10: Tambo Anya
Today Violeta took us to a school where we were to give our donations. The bus drove us out of Huancayo and into a small farm town called, Tambo Anya. When we arrived we were greeted by the principle of the elementry school. There were a few kids peeking around the corner at us and running and hiding when the saw me with my camera. lol. The principle took us into the grade 5-6 class first. They sang us a little song (will post video later) that translated to, "how are you my friends how are you?" and we replied, "very good!" They had a chance to ask us some questions, like where we are from, our names, what our weather is like, what kind of animals we have etc. We also asked them the same kind of questions. Some of the kids said the wanted to attend university, to become things like engineer, architect, doctor. We presented them with our gifts. 4 backpacks for the class room filled with, books, scribblers, pencils, toys, etc. and also a soccer ball and frisbee. none of the kids had ever seen a frisbee before so we did a little demonstration :) Some of the kids got up to try too. Its going to take a little practice :) We noticed that some kids were still wondering in after a while and we were told that the kids come whenever the parents can bring them. Because some live far out of town and also the kids help out on the farms. I think that is typical in any farming community in any culture. but in ours, maybe old fashioned? ..
We then went to the grade 1-2 class, This time after all the Q&A's we played a little game. The over and under game. We divided into two groups and made two rows down the class room and each team got a ball. We had to first pass over our head to the next person and then they havet to pass under their legs to the next person. The last person gets to run to the front of the line and start again. Who ever cycles through the group the fastest wins! When Shay asked if they wanted to play a game, and Violeta translated, the kids faces lit up and said SIIIII!!!! And with big smiles they were ready for their game. Next we went to the 3-4 class. This time Andrew played a little Ben E. King on the guitar and we all sang Stand by Me. The kids sang a song back to us too. We passed around the gifts and candy too. The kids were delighted to have us there and asked us lots of questions. Jarret did a little yoyo demo and one of the boys got up to try. Jarret said if He could get it all the way back up again he would win the yoyo! And he did. While they were demonstrating the frisbee I was crouched next to some the desks. I heard a little voice whisper, senorita, senorita, senoritaaa. I finally noticed a little boy was trying to get my attention. he asked me somehting but I couldnt hear because he was whispering. He was saying, quanto anos? (I had violeta tell me what he said) quanto anos means how old are you? so I told him, and I guees thats all he needed to know. it was so sweet :) Each of the class rooms were in three seperate buildings, and in between was a beautiful courtyard. In the courtyard was also a garden. When we all gathered there one of the teacher's, Ricardo, brought us each glass of inca cola on a tray. Inca cola is bright yellow and taste a bit like bubble gum or cream soda. Some of the kids came out to play with their new soccer balls and Andrew and Jeff played with them. After, we all gathered and Ricardo thanked us for coming and brought out some gifts for us! He explained to us that the town was built on an archealogical site. The Huankas use to live in this valley many many years ago (hence the name Huancayo) And the Incas tried to defeat them but failed. When the school was built, a garden was made in the courtyard which the children tend too. While digging in the garden, the children came accross some archeological finds! Pieces of pottery, tools, and even toys, from the time the Huancas lived there. He told us that as a gift for coming to the school we may each take a piece with us. I was so thrilled to see these, I dug through the box and took so many pictures. What an amazing find! I part of me felt like this history should stay in the country, but another part of me thought what a wonderful memory to take home. and one of the coolest pieces I will ever get from another country. Im sorry Peru but Im taking a piece of pottery home with me. And of course it is proper to take a gift when given :) Can't wait to post all the photos from this experience!!
Before we left some of the children came out and shared their breakfast with us. Each morning the kids get a packaged bun and milk for breakfast. It was so very sweet of them to share with us, it really touched my heart. A bun and milk is so simple.. it was for them, but they shared with us.. :)
After the school we went to work and continued up on the second and top floor of the admin building. We layed bricks, (well, some of us did...) with Augusto, and hauled equipment up to the roof top on a rickety wooden ladder. Interesting photos to show of that... :D. WCB will love this!!
We then went to the grade 1-2 class, This time after all the Q&A's we played a little game. The over and under game. We divided into two groups and made two rows down the class room and each team got a ball. We had to first pass over our head to the next person and then they havet to pass under their legs to the next person. The last person gets to run to the front of the line and start again. Who ever cycles through the group the fastest wins! When Shay asked if they wanted to play a game, and Violeta translated, the kids faces lit up and said SIIIII!!!! And with big smiles they were ready for their game. Next we went to the 3-4 class. This time Andrew played a little Ben E. King on the guitar and we all sang Stand by Me. The kids sang a song back to us too. We passed around the gifts and candy too. The kids were delighted to have us there and asked us lots of questions. Jarret did a little yoyo demo and one of the boys got up to try. Jarret said if He could get it all the way back up again he would win the yoyo! And he did. While they were demonstrating the frisbee I was crouched next to some the desks. I heard a little voice whisper, senorita, senorita, senoritaaa. I finally noticed a little boy was trying to get my attention. he asked me somehting but I couldnt hear because he was whispering. He was saying, quanto anos? (I had violeta tell me what he said) quanto anos means how old are you? so I told him, and I guees thats all he needed to know. it was so sweet :) Each of the class rooms were in three seperate buildings, and in between was a beautiful courtyard. In the courtyard was also a garden. When we all gathered there one of the teacher's, Ricardo, brought us each glass of inca cola on a tray. Inca cola is bright yellow and taste a bit like bubble gum or cream soda. Some of the kids came out to play with their new soccer balls and Andrew and Jeff played with them. After, we all gathered and Ricardo thanked us for coming and brought out some gifts for us! He explained to us that the town was built on an archealogical site. The Huankas use to live in this valley many many years ago (hence the name Huancayo) And the Incas tried to defeat them but failed. When the school was built, a garden was made in the courtyard which the children tend too. While digging in the garden, the children came accross some archeological finds! Pieces of pottery, tools, and even toys, from the time the Huancas lived there. He told us that as a gift for coming to the school we may each take a piece with us. I was so thrilled to see these, I dug through the box and took so many pictures. What an amazing find! I part of me felt like this history should stay in the country, but another part of me thought what a wonderful memory to take home. and one of the coolest pieces I will ever get from another country. Im sorry Peru but Im taking a piece of pottery home with me. And of course it is proper to take a gift when given :) Can't wait to post all the photos from this experience!!
Before we left some of the children came out and shared their breakfast with us. Each morning the kids get a packaged bun and milk for breakfast. It was so very sweet of them to share with us, it really touched my heart. A bun and milk is so simple.. it was for them, but they shared with us.. :)
After the school we went to work and continued up on the second and top floor of the admin building. We layed bricks, (well, some of us did...) with Augusto, and hauled equipment up to the roof top on a rickety wooden ladder. Interesting photos to show of that... :D. WCB will love this!!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Day 7,8,9: market, san Jeronimo, and cooking
On Sunday we went to the Sunday market, which is the biggest market in Huancayo. A street shuts down for about 5 or 6 blocks. and is lined with 2 rows of vendors. Most of the goods were the typical peruvian handcrafted goods, such as silver, painted gourds, cheesy soveniers, and alpaca blankets and sweaters. There were some foods and a special spot designated to manufactured items, like shoes. I had fun walking around and did manage to find a few great things. One of which came from a man who made some purses out of recycled leather. they were one of a kind and just what I was after. There were a few vendors who made one of a kind items such as Jewelry and purses wallets etc. Mostly men, and very funky hippy like people. I liked them, they were right up my ally :) I wasn't feeling well so I didnt stay to long. And Im sure it had nothing to do with the fact that about 4 vendors told us to turn around and go back the other way because there was a man following us. they warned us to keep our bags close in front of us and to ignore if anyone tries to, for example, spill water on us, spit on us, or ask us to hold aa baby. Because that is when they will try to rob us. The people were very kind to help us out. Again with the kind people... so wonderful. Nothing came of that man, at least not for us.
I spent the next evening and most of the next day at the hotel because I came down with a terrible cold and wanted to sleep it off so I could just be better. When every one got back from working I was told that Jessie and Lisbeth had arranged to take us in our bus to see a few things around the area. I thought I should try and get out of the room and attempt to feel better so I tagged along. And was so glad I did. The driver drove us out of Huancayo and into a small village where there was a family who spun alpaca wool and would weave wall hangings, blankets, sweaters etc. Here is the fantastic part. Not only is it all handmade by them but it is dyed using only natural plant dyes and in no part of the process at all are chemicals used. This is just what I've been looking for! She showed us how she spun the yarn and what plants were used for dying. There were two types of plants used for a few different colors, (cant remember which ones) A certain type of wood used for the blue and small bugs on who burrow themselves on a cactus for the red. you squish them of course for the red color :) She then showed us how to weave on these beautiful wooden machines, all done by a foot pedel. I had a hard time controlling myself in here. It was my goal this year to start investing in more natural fibers and dyes for my own clothing. I ended up spending and total of... 535 soles. Two blankets, 5 sweaters, and half a kilo of alpaca yarn.... oh yeah.. by the way.. does anyone know how to knit? All but three are gifts for people. No, Im not telling who, you can wait :P This amazing shop was run out of their home and looked to be in the courtyard of the home. It was a typical south american home, of you can imagine what you've seen in the movies. the front was gated and when you walked in it opened into the courtyard. The house itself was at the front of the compound (above the gate) and their were stairs to go up into the home. on the ground floor under the stairs, there was the most beautiful terra cotta, very large sink. Which every home I have seen so far always has one in the yard. I intend on having one too one day :P
Afterwards we went to a town called, San Jeronimo. There was a festival going on there. It is the festival of their patron saint. The festival lasts 6 days and is very lively with, dancers, beer gardens, carnival rides, games, vendors and more. There was a parade of people dressed in costumes and masks dancing wildly down the street followed by a live band playing some traditional tunes. The dance was called Avelino and is traditional to the festival. Will have to research some more info on that.. After that we drove to see a very very big statue of the virgin mary in a town called concepcion.
Tuesday was a normal day at work, except for the amount my nose was running. And after work we were going to attend a cooking class. I was so excited to learn a traditional Peruvian dish!! We met up with the teacher and he took us to a the traditional market where we were going to buy fresh ingredients for the class. There was many beautiful fruits, vegetables and grains etc. And of course lots of fresh meat, cheeses, dairy products. I was happy that what we were making was a vegetarian dish because I was hungry and I was looking forward to eating it! Also, I wouldn't trust the meat in the meat market just because of how long it sits out for. Amoung other reasons... Many people in the group were shocked at the sight of the meat market. But really, its just where people go to buy their meat. After all, meat is dead animal remember? And here they use all parts of the animal, at home, most of it is wasted. I must admit the smell was a little offensive, but you guys sure enjoy the smell after its cooked and covered in spices don't you? Nobody wanted me to remind them that the meat they have been eating for the last week in the resturaunts came from there. Haha, people are so silly. Welcome to the meat market.
We went to a friend of the chefs home and cooked up a wonderful traditional Huancayao meal. Here is the recipe:
Papas a la Huancaina- potatoes with Huancaina sauce
13 plates
26 medium potatoes (new potatoes and yellow are best)
1kg of cheese (white "fresco" mexican or Peruvian cheese works ok but you could use feta for a stronger flavor)
3/4kg, small hot peppers ( yellow aji mirisol works best but you could use yellow mexican chili too)
1 cup evaporated milk
1/2cup vegetabe oil
8 soda crackers
1 onion
salt
lettuce
3 hard boiled eggs
black olives
Parsley
lime
picante pepper
boil and peel potatoes and allow to cool. in a blender, blend the cheese, peppers, milk, oil, crackers and salt.
The sauce should be fairly thick, if not add more crackers, of too thick add more milk.
slice onion in bowl and squeeze lime over top. add finely chopped picante pepper.
lay a bed of lettuce in a serving dish and place the potatoes on top. cover with the sauce. Cut the hard boiled eggs in half and place the side. add black olives if desire and sprinkle with chopped parsley. add onion salad to the side.
This dish can be served slightly cold.
It was delicious! Please enjoy!!
I spent the next evening and most of the next day at the hotel because I came down with a terrible cold and wanted to sleep it off so I could just be better. When every one got back from working I was told that Jessie and Lisbeth had arranged to take us in our bus to see a few things around the area. I thought I should try and get out of the room and attempt to feel better so I tagged along. And was so glad I did. The driver drove us out of Huancayo and into a small village where there was a family who spun alpaca wool and would weave wall hangings, blankets, sweaters etc. Here is the fantastic part. Not only is it all handmade by them but it is dyed using only natural plant dyes and in no part of the process at all are chemicals used. This is just what I've been looking for! She showed us how she spun the yarn and what plants were used for dying. There were two types of plants used for a few different colors, (cant remember which ones) A certain type of wood used for the blue and small bugs on who burrow themselves on a cactus for the red. you squish them of course for the red color :) She then showed us how to weave on these beautiful wooden machines, all done by a foot pedel. I had a hard time controlling myself in here. It was my goal this year to start investing in more natural fibers and dyes for my own clothing. I ended up spending and total of... 535 soles. Two blankets, 5 sweaters, and half a kilo of alpaca yarn.... oh yeah.. by the way.. does anyone know how to knit? All but three are gifts for people. No, Im not telling who, you can wait :P This amazing shop was run out of their home and looked to be in the courtyard of the home. It was a typical south american home, of you can imagine what you've seen in the movies. the front was gated and when you walked in it opened into the courtyard. The house itself was at the front of the compound (above the gate) and their were stairs to go up into the home. on the ground floor under the stairs, there was the most beautiful terra cotta, very large sink. Which every home I have seen so far always has one in the yard. I intend on having one too one day :P
Afterwards we went to a town called, San Jeronimo. There was a festival going on there. It is the festival of their patron saint. The festival lasts 6 days and is very lively with, dancers, beer gardens, carnival rides, games, vendors and more. There was a parade of people dressed in costumes and masks dancing wildly down the street followed by a live band playing some traditional tunes. The dance was called Avelino and is traditional to the festival. Will have to research some more info on that.. After that we drove to see a very very big statue of the virgin mary in a town called concepcion.
Tuesday was a normal day at work, except for the amount my nose was running. And after work we were going to attend a cooking class. I was so excited to learn a traditional Peruvian dish!! We met up with the teacher and he took us to a the traditional market where we were going to buy fresh ingredients for the class. There was many beautiful fruits, vegetables and grains etc. And of course lots of fresh meat, cheeses, dairy products. I was happy that what we were making was a vegetarian dish because I was hungry and I was looking forward to eating it! Also, I wouldn't trust the meat in the meat market just because of how long it sits out for. Amoung other reasons... Many people in the group were shocked at the sight of the meat market. But really, its just where people go to buy their meat. After all, meat is dead animal remember? And here they use all parts of the animal, at home, most of it is wasted. I must admit the smell was a little offensive, but you guys sure enjoy the smell after its cooked and covered in spices don't you? Nobody wanted me to remind them that the meat they have been eating for the last week in the resturaunts came from there. Haha, people are so silly. Welcome to the meat market.
We went to a friend of the chefs home and cooked up a wonderful traditional Huancayao meal. Here is the recipe:
Papas a la Huancaina- potatoes with Huancaina sauce
13 plates
26 medium potatoes (new potatoes and yellow are best)
1kg of cheese (white "fresco" mexican or Peruvian cheese works ok but you could use feta for a stronger flavor)
3/4kg, small hot peppers ( yellow aji mirisol works best but you could use yellow mexican chili too)
1 cup evaporated milk
1/2cup vegetabe oil
8 soda crackers
1 onion
salt
lettuce
3 hard boiled eggs
black olives
Parsley
lime
picante pepper
boil and peel potatoes and allow to cool. in a blender, blend the cheese, peppers, milk, oil, crackers and salt.
The sauce should be fairly thick, if not add more crackers, of too thick add more milk.
slice onion in bowl and squeeze lime over top. add finely chopped picante pepper.
lay a bed of lettuce in a serving dish and place the potatoes on top. cover with the sauce. Cut the hard boiled eggs in half and place the side. add black olives if desire and sprinkle with chopped parsley. add onion salad to the side.
This dish can be served slightly cold.
It was delicious! Please enjoy!!
hat lady
We have bought so many hats from this lady. She stands outside our hotel in the mornings, honestly a amart place to catch the touristas on their way to breakfast :) For 7 soles you can a have a handmade knitted hat.
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