So I woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning... figuratively and literally. Figuratively -- First of all woke up in the early hours of the morning to a cat somewhere near my bedroom window that was clearly struggling to some extent and being ridiculously loud. It continued for at least an hour while I drifted in and out of sleep and then I finally woke up to the shrill sounds of a dog and cat having some sort of battle/confrontation. It was awful and made me want to cry. There was no hope for going back to sleep after that.
Literally -- So the mattresses here aren't really mattresses at all... more like a thick pad on top of wood panels. There are four beds in my room but I am the only one occupying the room. After the first two nights of waking up in incredible back pain, I decide to throw one of the other mattresses under mine for a little extra padding. Mistake. Since there is nothing to these mattresses, I woke up in an even bigger ass print of a hole in the mattress than before and in an equal amount of back pain. To make matters worse, I have a million bug bites because apparently the bugs here are immune to the damn 98% DEET bug spray that I have been infecting myself with at all times, so I have been having a difficult time sleeping through the night with the heat, the itching bug bites, and my back. Thank god for melatonin because I would be struggling big time without it.
Today was my first day in the Women's hospital and I was so excited about it. I tried so hard to put those silly things aside so that I could enjoy the day in the hospital. After a wonderful morning full of births and conversations with some of the English speaking nurses, listening to interesting stories and learning the comparisons to US procedures in the delivery room, I felt incredibly homesick for my job back in the states. I wanted desperately to help the way that I help and do my job in the states to make the birthing experience even just a little bit better for some of the mothers, but many of the things are not practiced here and are not accepted. I needed to constantly remind myself that this is why I am here. To learn about a new culture, a different way of doing things, and to bring what I have learned back to the states. To be a better nurse, a well-rounded nurse, a nurse who practices cultural humility and cultural adaptability. Tomorrow is theatre day (operating room) so send good vibes my way so that maybe I will be better.
Spent the afternoon after lunch at home reading my book and collecting my thoughts. I attempted to go out with the other volunteers but was exhausted and distracted so I removed myself. At this point, I was homesick for not only the US but Peru too. I missed my independence that I have in both places, especially Peru. There was a never ending list of things that I wanted to do, with the other volunteers/friends and by myself. It was easy and always an adventure. Here is very different. It is never a good idea to travel alone even during the day, and I live in such a small village that it takes an entire afternoon and planning to venture outside the village to do more exploring or other activities. I was frustrated. However, there is a gym that is just around the corner from my house that I attempted to go have a good work out and sweat out all of the bad vibes, but then I got there, I found that had cancelled the classes for the night. ugh.
Ended the day, getting cleaned up in the bathroom and a giant cockroach climbed out of the sink drain while I was brushing my teeth... had to chase it around the bathroom for while before I was able to kill it. Scared me half to death when I discovered it running at full speed toward me.
Homesick. I was incredibly spoiled in Peru. Wifi in my house... so lucky and so convenient. Since I live in such a small village here, wifi does not exist... not in the house, not in town, not for about 25 minutes outside the village. It is proving very difficult for me to not talk with my family, boyfriend, and friends for this long. The time difference makes it that much harder. I miss everyone. But. tomorrow is a new day.... vent session over. Looking forward to waking up refreshed and ready to move on.
The one good thing about the day, work. Just proves how much I love my job as a labor and delivery nurse and how much I strive to keep learning. I want to know more. I want to be a bomb ass nurse. I want to be the nurse that my patients are so happy to see when I walk in the door.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Sunday 11/23/14 "close your mouth"
Today, the group decided that before we headed back to Panadura, we were going to stop at a place and do white water rafting. It took some convincing and begging to get everyone to agree but we eventually made the decision. Woke up quite early and drove for about two hours, in the direction of Panadura thankfully, and arrived at the water rafting site. We broke off into two small groups of 4 (not everyone decided to stay and participate) and were placed in two boats. Our guides started off by explaining how to sit/paddle/react during the adventure. However, the explanation took less than three minutes and was dangerously vague, which made every feel really good and safe.. not. Believe it or not, we really didn't need that much guidance and our guides were absolutely hilarious -- having us race, stand up through the rapids, jump out of the boat, and generally mess with the other "team." The trip started and the only thing that was shouted and reinforced throughout the ride was "CLOSE YOUR MOUTH." haha otherwise, choke on the waves of water rushing at your face and thrashing you around the boat. Since I had never been rafting before, I thought it was amazing along with everyone else. The only complaint we had at the end was that we wished it was longer! After a couple of long days behind us, we headed back to Panadura for a relaxing evening at Blue Water for some WIFI and wine. What an amazing first weekend... couldn't have asked for a better one and can't wait to see what the next ones have to offer.
Friday 11/21/14 "You're a fool if you don't do it, but you're an even bigger fool if you do it twice" -- Adam's Peak
Friday started out like any other day... work in the hospital for the morning, was in the surgical ward today and was able to see and help with the crazzzzyyy wound cleaning and dressing. So that was fun and really interesting. I really have no idea what I'm going to do when I get back in terms of where I will want to work, I guess it will be a surprise for all of us.
After work, I met up with the rest of the volunteers and we hopped on a bus that took us to this tiny little village about 5 hours away. Since we got into town after dark, we just ate dinner and took a short nap at the hostel. At about 0200 the excitement began. We all crawled out of bed, literally.... not particularly excited for the next hours to come. Thankfully I had remember to bring my flashlight because the trek up to Adam's Peak started at two and went all night. Those who forgot to bring theirs had some problems haha. Thinking that I was totally prepared for the trek since I had been doing so much hiking in the high altitude of Peru, I had no idea what was coming. The beginning started off just fine. We passed through another village and received bracelets and a blessing from the monks which was awesome because we needed to luck. The trek was just fine until the steps started... maybe 1/3 of the way into the hike. These weren't just regular old steps, these were steep, uneven, rock, slippery/moss covered steps. Oh yeah, and it had rained pretty much the entire evening before, so everything was soaked making staying on your feet a bit difficult. Also, thankfully I had worn my hiking shoes because those who didn't have the right footwear definitely paid for it. Once the difficulty began, the group separated into smaller packs by fitness level, which made me a bit nervous for some reason because the doctors at the hospital kept telling us horror stories/warning us not to do the trek or to be extremely careful. They were telling us that hiking Adam's Peak now was foolish because it was off season (season started in mid-December I believe and is a religious outing). But, off season meant that the path was not maintained, the path was never lit, and the shops/tea stops were not open along the way. I was in the first group, apparently paving and lighting the way, and we were making awesome time and it actually felt amazing to get in a good work out when it wasn't incredibly hot. The hike took us a total of about 2.5 hours including breaks... oh the breaks. Not only were they amazing because the hike was very hard, but we would sit down and look up to probably the most stars I've ever seen, it was absolutely breathtaking. I wish my pictures would have turned out from the nighttime because it really was something special. The hike was very similar to Machupichuu except hiking up to Machupichuu and then continuing without stopping up Machupichuu Mountain except much hotter.
Once we got to the top, it got freezing. We were at about 3000 meters altitude and no one thought to bring warm clothes and dry clothes for that matter since we were soaked in sweat. We all huddled together for warmth and watched the sunrise then headed back down the mountain... another two hours and holy cow did my knees/body just ache. It was about six hours of constantly working out the body. Once we got back to the hostel, we ate a ton of food for breakfast and passed out.
After work, I met up with the rest of the volunteers and we hopped on a bus that took us to this tiny little village about 5 hours away. Since we got into town after dark, we just ate dinner and took a short nap at the hostel. At about 0200 the excitement began. We all crawled out of bed, literally.... not particularly excited for the next hours to come. Thankfully I had remember to bring my flashlight because the trek up to Adam's Peak started at two and went all night. Those who forgot to bring theirs had some problems haha. Thinking that I was totally prepared for the trek since I had been doing so much hiking in the high altitude of Peru, I had no idea what was coming. The beginning started off just fine. We passed through another village and received bracelets and a blessing from the monks which was awesome because we needed to luck. The trek was just fine until the steps started... maybe 1/3 of the way into the hike. These weren't just regular old steps, these were steep, uneven, rock, slippery/moss covered steps. Oh yeah, and it had rained pretty much the entire evening before, so everything was soaked making staying on your feet a bit difficult. Also, thankfully I had worn my hiking shoes because those who didn't have the right footwear definitely paid for it. Once the difficulty began, the group separated into smaller packs by fitness level, which made me a bit nervous for some reason because the doctors at the hospital kept telling us horror stories/warning us not to do the trek or to be extremely careful. They were telling us that hiking Adam's Peak now was foolish because it was off season (season started in mid-December I believe and is a religious outing). But, off season meant that the path was not maintained, the path was never lit, and the shops/tea stops were not open along the way. I was in the first group, apparently paving and lighting the way, and we were making awesome time and it actually felt amazing to get in a good work out when it wasn't incredibly hot. The hike took us a total of about 2.5 hours including breaks... oh the breaks. Not only were they amazing because the hike was very hard, but we would sit down and look up to probably the most stars I've ever seen, it was absolutely breathtaking. I wish my pictures would have turned out from the nighttime because it really was something special. The hike was very similar to Machupichuu except hiking up to Machupichuu and then continuing without stopping up Machupichuu Mountain except much hotter.
Once we got to the top, it got freezing. We were at about 3000 meters altitude and no one thought to bring warm clothes and dry clothes for that matter since we were soaked in sweat. We all huddled together for warmth and watched the sunrise then headed back down the mountain... another two hours and holy cow did my knees/body just ache. It was about six hours of constantly working out the body. Once we got back to the hostel, we ate a ton of food for breakfast and passed out.
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Thursday 11/20/14 Projects Abroad
It absolutely blows my mind how much better the projects abroad program is here than in Peru. Yesterday, one of the staff members walked me through the entire town and physically brought me to places like the supermarket, bank, pharmacy, Internet cafe, popular places for volunteers, etc. We visited the two hospitals that I would be volunteering at. I had also received a free SIM card when going through immigration on arrival but mine along with my peruvian phone had been giving me problems so she took me to the right places to get it all sorted out. By the end of the morning, I literally had no questions or concerns at all. I was able to visit the pediatric unit also yesterday and hung out with all the kids but the unit didn't seem to have much for me to do or observe. The doctors there said the unit is very seasonal and suggested that I get transferred to a different unit for better experience. Malsha, my coordinator, was right on it and today I was in the surgical unit in a variety of situations including on mastectomy which was really amazing to watch and had me thinking about what kind of nursing I wanted to pursue upon arrival in the US. Next week I start in the OBGYN hospital for labor and delivery which Malsha had also specifically arranged for me. She's awesome.
Tuesday 11/18/14 Bugs
So I'm glad I have a bug net over my bed as I have killed quite a few and found my first lizard crawling all over the walls so that's an interesting new development.
Monday 11/17/14 holy hot here.
Got into Colombo around 2:30 am pick up my luggage and get picked up by projects abroad staff. The drive from the airport to my house is about 1.5 hr. Got to the house around 5:30 and totally crashed... Slept till like noon got up had a delicious lunch and unpacked. I don't think I have ever been more grateful for a cold shower in my life!!! So refreshing but the second you step out of the shower, you are instantly sweating again so I'm just going to have to get used to that. This afternoon we had a crazy storm... Lightening, thunder, wind, downpour, the whole deal. Apparently they don't usually gets storms like that here so my host family was really scared and freaking out a bit, especially when the power kept going out haha. After a short while the rain stopped, I rested before dinner and then went to a hotel to meet up with some volunteers that were getting together to say goodbye to a volunteer that was leaving that night. It was so nice to meet everyone right away and make some friends that first day unlike Peru. There are two other volunteer houses very close to mine which is also really nice. There aren't many places for us to all hang out so it sounds like the trend here is for everyone to hang out at a hotel/resort for wifi and AC. We are starting to plan a trip for this weekend to Adams Peak, which was on my top things to do, so I'm excited about that.
Sunday 11/16/14 missing peru....
Things I am missing about Peru:
1. The lights on the hills at night. From the plaza and really anywhere in the valley, seeing the lights on the hill is one sight I don't think I'll see again. It makes you want to find a place to sit and just look. Many people refer to them as the "fallen stars." There is really nothing like it.
2. The colors - things are so vibrant there. The baby blankets, llamas, craft markets, etc. Everything is alive and flowing.
3. The kiddos at San Juan De Dios. They have fun and love life event in the toughest of times. One little boy, Jhon was always smiling, no matter what. It was hilarious and beautiful. Another little girl was having fun stealing my stuff and playing hide and seek with it. Love them. I really wish I could have helped more and challenged each of them to go further because I know they could have.
4. The girls and babes at Peru for Life. They were trying so hard to make good lives for themselves and their babies after having such a rough start to life. Overcoming mental and physical limitations and learning to be mothers when they are still kids.
5. Oddly, I miss the cab drivers. They people the were so willing to let me practice my spanish and help me navigate an unknown city. They were unbelievably helpful and kind. I couldn't have asked for better people to interact with.
6. Again, oddly enough, I miss the dogs. Before leaving, everyone spent so much time and energy warning me about "the dogs." But in reality, most were super cute and friendly. After watching the locals interact with them and realizing a majority of them weren't going to bother/hurt me, I became really nature with them. I loved that they were everywhere. I also miss my home dog... little shit cuz it was always wanted to wrestle/play but also really snuggly.
7. Speaking on house pets... I'm going to miss to have allergies to pets??? No clue why I didn't have any allergic reactions to the dog and TWO cats in the house, but it was SOOO nice being able to interact/snuggle with them whenever I want and not turn into one big, itching hive.
8. The mountains and the scenery. After being there for a certain period of time, being surrounded by the mountains and continuous beauty turns normal.
9. The bars/discotecas - mythology, wild rover, temple, Mama africa, indigo, loki.... so many fun places to visit throughout the night and even more fun people and travelers inside.
10. The incredible kind people here - the woman who walked me to the plaza (out of her way) at night to make sure I got there safely, the man at the cathedral who helped explain the service to me, the fellow travelers who randomly tell you about great places to visit.
11. The friends that I mad there - Kiva, Julia, Lindsay, Louise, Hannah, Courtney, Sandrine... people who were more than willing to build relationships and explore new places with people they have just met and placing trust in complete strangers. Travelers in general seem to be great people and I hope other travelers look at me that way because finding that bond with other is so amazing and ridiculously fun.
12. My host family - Maria Jesus (mom), Michi (sister), Myra (sister), Antonio (brother), and Dushka (sister). Opening their home so travelers like myself can learn and enjoy the local lifestyle.
13. The cobblestone roadways and architecture - in general the area surrounding the Plaza de Armas. So much fun and totally relaxing to wander around and aimlessly explore the area in the early morning... quiet, peaceful.
14. Plus so many more things
1. The lights on the hills at night. From the plaza and really anywhere in the valley, seeing the lights on the hill is one sight I don't think I'll see again. It makes you want to find a place to sit and just look. Many people refer to them as the "fallen stars." There is really nothing like it.
2. The colors - things are so vibrant there. The baby blankets, llamas, craft markets, etc. Everything is alive and flowing.
3. The kiddos at San Juan De Dios. They have fun and love life event in the toughest of times. One little boy, Jhon was always smiling, no matter what. It was hilarious and beautiful. Another little girl was having fun stealing my stuff and playing hide and seek with it. Love them. I really wish I could have helped more and challenged each of them to go further because I know they could have.
4. The girls and babes at Peru for Life. They were trying so hard to make good lives for themselves and their babies after having such a rough start to life. Overcoming mental and physical limitations and learning to be mothers when they are still kids.
5. Oddly, I miss the cab drivers. They people the were so willing to let me practice my spanish and help me navigate an unknown city. They were unbelievably helpful and kind. I couldn't have asked for better people to interact with.
6. Again, oddly enough, I miss the dogs. Before leaving, everyone spent so much time and energy warning me about "the dogs." But in reality, most were super cute and friendly. After watching the locals interact with them and realizing a majority of them weren't going to bother/hurt me, I became really nature with them. I loved that they were everywhere. I also miss my home dog... little shit cuz it was always wanted to wrestle/play but also really snuggly.
7. Speaking on house pets... I'm going to miss to have allergies to pets??? No clue why I didn't have any allergic reactions to the dog and TWO cats in the house, but it was SOOO nice being able to interact/snuggle with them whenever I want and not turn into one big, itching hive.
8. The mountains and the scenery. After being there for a certain period of time, being surrounded by the mountains and continuous beauty turns normal.
9. The bars/discotecas - mythology, wild rover, temple, Mama africa, indigo, loki.... so many fun places to visit throughout the night and even more fun people and travelers inside.
10. The incredible kind people here - the woman who walked me to the plaza (out of her way) at night to make sure I got there safely, the man at the cathedral who helped explain the service to me, the fellow travelers who randomly tell you about great places to visit.
11. The friends that I mad there - Kiva, Julia, Lindsay, Louise, Hannah, Courtney, Sandrine... people who were more than willing to build relationships and explore new places with people they have just met and placing trust in complete strangers. Travelers in general seem to be great people and I hope other travelers look at me that way because finding that bond with other is so amazing and ridiculously fun.
12. My host family - Maria Jesus (mom), Michi (sister), Myra (sister), Antonio (brother), and Dushka (sister). Opening their home so travelers like myself can learn and enjoy the local lifestyle.
13. The cobblestone roadways and architecture - in general the area surrounding the Plaza de Armas. So much fun and totally relaxing to wander around and aimlessly explore the area in the early morning... quiet, peaceful.
14. Plus so many more things
Saturday 11/15/14 I'm in Miami..... ;) sang that one all day
So I get into Miami and pick up my luggage but come to figure out that Lima was supposed to print my tickets even after I argued about the matter with the Lima ticketing office for what seemed liked ages. So from 0600 (about when we arrived in Miami) to 4:00 pm I had to wait outside of ticketing. Not wanting to carry all my crap around all over the place, I decide to post up in a corner and obviously... Binge watch television. So got caught up on scandal (steph I hope you have been watching, cuz holy guacamole!!). Anyways, after I finally get into the airport and find my gate, there conveniently is a restaurant across the hall that is playing the badger game. Again, I found a nice corner, posted up with beer and nachos and enjoyed the game before take off! Needless to say, it was a nice conclusion to a long ass day. Also another convenience/process that we totally take for granted in the US.... walking into a bathroom, for all you women out there, seeing a toilet seat on the toilet, having there be an ample supply of toilet paper, throwing the toilet paper into the toilet instead of a garbage then proceeding to a sink where the water works, there is an ample supply of soap and some source to dry your hands. My first experience with this lovely process in Miami was definitely a high light of the day. :)
Friday 11/14/14 The journey to colombo begins
Last minute shopping for most of the morning for you people. You're so lucky ;) Lunch and postres with some volunteers for a nice little send off and back to the house for the good byes :( My friend, Lindsay's host dad was kind enough to give us a ride to the airport which was very convenient. I'm so thankful that I have two other volunteers traveling with my to Miami!
11/13/14 Last traditional cuisines
Had a good last day in the clinic helping in the physical therapy room. Then went out to lunch with the medical supervisor for Peru. Her name was Pati. We went to a local place at Cusquenita and tried the last remaining dishes that I have been holding out on. Yes, I tried it, I tried the guinea pig. It was different, crunchy, and tasted like... meat? Was different but a delicacy here. Also tried this fruit corn beer called fruitada that was surprisingly delicious. Had my last spanish class which was really sad but I'm excited to practice everything that I have learned. After spanish, I met up with a friend who got her first tattoo. Was very exciting and made me start thinking about mine. Of course, I thought of another tattoo I wanted after we left :(. Had my last dinner with some friend's host family - pisco and pizza, what an amazing combo!! Then home for a late night of packing.
11/10/14 Colca Canyon... the grand finale
Want to guess the start? ......Up early about 0530 to hit the road for the Colca Canyon. Made a bunch of stops for picture taking along the canyon before we arrived at our look-out point for Condors (the bird Peru is known for, vulture-like looking bird that is gigantic). We spotted a few here and there but nothing up close, but right at the end one swooped through which was pretty cool. After the morning in the canyon, we left Chivay and headed to Arequipa. Arequipa is beautifulllll. The architecture, the palm trees, the liveliness. It was wayyyy cleaner that Cusco, which I liked. We explored the plaza area and the markets obviously. Found this gem of a spot on top of a building in the plaza and were able to see the entire city from the top. Took the overnight bus back to Cusco at about 1930 and was back for work in the morning. Woof.
11/9/14 Part 2: Journey to Chivay
Again, up early at 0530 for the bus to Chivay/Arequipa for the Colca Canyon and part 2 of the last adventure of Peru 2014. The bus ride was about 4-5hr with stops to significant places on the way. First stop was to see the "Little Lake Titicaca" and flamingos. Unfortunately, the birds were pretty far away but still a pretty area nonetheless. The second stop was to see the rock forest and the most dangerous active volcano in Peru. The rock forest was natural rock formations that were really interesting to look at. The third stop was for some more volcanos at about 5000 meters. The day started the downhill slope from here.
1. Got into Chivay, bought out tourist pass for the Colca Canyon and headed to the booking place. However, after waiting for what seemed like hours... prolly at least an hour, our guide never shows and then they bring us to a hostel that we think isn't ours. Starving and frustrated we hit the plaza for lunch were they tell us they have what we want then they tell us they don't and then we leave and they tell us they do. AKA "I don't want to make that order something else (we leave), WAIT ok yeah we have that, sit down."
2. After lunch we meander around the plaza and decide to rent some bikes and explore the town a bit. We rent some bikes and equipment but find out there is no guide, however, we get a map!! lol we venture out on the bike path and come to find that the trip is mostly uphill. However, the views are amazing and the work out feels good. We get to the first checkpoint and the map is no longer useful. We get lost... and the only path to follow is off-roading downhill. We ask some people along the way and they tell us that we are on the right track so we continue along until we are utterly and completely lost.... and it's getting dark. We backtrack uphill and walk out to the canyon to see if we can find this "lost bridge" we were supposed to take. Luckily, we can see it, but have no clue how to get to it. We finally find this little path that has been destroyed by rainfall (it appears) and/or hasn't been used in ages. We have to walk the bikes down because it is extremely steep and at this point I'm not taking any chances. We walk onto the bridge and are totally silent because the view is spectacular. We are down in the canyon, the river is gorgeous, and the sun is setting. But it's SUPER windy.
3. We stop to take some pictures and my ticket for Colca Canyon tomorrow flies out of my backpack and I watch as it floats through the wind and down into the river.
4. We get across the bridge and find that the only way back up the canyon to the next check point is by stairs... like approximately 4 flights of stairs... with our bikes. FUN!!!!
5. Get to the top and are totally exhausted and it's just about to be very dark, and we are only half way through the bike trip. In the plaza of this town we convince a convoy to take us and our bikes back to Chivay. He finally agrees and we go on our way. We ended up having to pay a bunch more money because we were late getting our bikes back... shockingly.
6. We get back to the hostel and are scolded because apparently we were supposed to meet our guide there, but no one thought about informing us that.
The bright side... got a work out, saw an incredible sunset.
1. Got into Chivay, bought out tourist pass for the Colca Canyon and headed to the booking place. However, after waiting for what seemed like hours... prolly at least an hour, our guide never shows and then they bring us to a hostel that we think isn't ours. Starving and frustrated we hit the plaza for lunch were they tell us they have what we want then they tell us they don't and then we leave and they tell us they do. AKA "I don't want to make that order something else (we leave), WAIT ok yeah we have that, sit down."
2. After lunch we meander around the plaza and decide to rent some bikes and explore the town a bit. We rent some bikes and equipment but find out there is no guide, however, we get a map!! lol we venture out on the bike path and come to find that the trip is mostly uphill. However, the views are amazing and the work out feels good. We get to the first checkpoint and the map is no longer useful. We get lost... and the only path to follow is off-roading downhill. We ask some people along the way and they tell us that we are on the right track so we continue along until we are utterly and completely lost.... and it's getting dark. We backtrack uphill and walk out to the canyon to see if we can find this "lost bridge" we were supposed to take. Luckily, we can see it, but have no clue how to get to it. We finally find this little path that has been destroyed by rainfall (it appears) and/or hasn't been used in ages. We have to walk the bikes down because it is extremely steep and at this point I'm not taking any chances. We walk onto the bridge and are totally silent because the view is spectacular. We are down in the canyon, the river is gorgeous, and the sun is setting. But it's SUPER windy.
3. We stop to take some pictures and my ticket for Colca Canyon tomorrow flies out of my backpack and I watch as it floats through the wind and down into the river.
4. We get across the bridge and find that the only way back up the canyon to the next check point is by stairs... like approximately 4 flights of stairs... with our bikes. FUN!!!!
5. Get to the top and are totally exhausted and it's just about to be very dark, and we are only half way through the bike trip. In the plaza of this town we convince a convoy to take us and our bikes back to Chivay. He finally agrees and we go on our way. We ended up having to pay a bunch more money because we were late getting our bikes back... shockingly.
6. We get back to the hostel and are scolded because apparently we were supposed to meet our guide there, but no one thought about informing us that.
The bright side... got a work out, saw an incredible sunset.
11/8/14 Lake Titicaca Day 2
Up early for breakfast with the host family and boat ride to the next island - Taquila. Today was much windier than yesterday so the water was very choppy making for an interesting ride in our little tug-boat like boat. We ended up breaking down for a bit and just kind of drifting, was actually kind of relaxing because we relaxed on the top of the boat in the sun and breeze. We couldn't figure out how it was happening, but there was this amazing, huge ring around the sun without any clouds or anything, strange and very pretty. Once the boat was back up and running, we made it to the island and hiked into town (about 45-60 mins). We walked around, peaked through the markets then hiked about another 30 minutes to our lunch spot. There they performed a presentation on how the locals interact. For example, they greet each other with coca leaves instead of kisses, hand shakes, etc. They showed us different plants they use for shampoo/cleaning/etc. They also showed us how to distinguish their marital status. Depending on whether you are single, married, divorced, widowed etc, they have to wear certain types of clothing. For example, the men that are single have a hat that is two different colors and they can wear it different ways to show whether they are single, dating, engaged, etc. Females have different colored skirts and belts. The performance was summed up with a dance. The island in general has three rules: Don't lie, don't steal, don't be lazy. And surprisingly it works fantastically well. After lunch concluded, we took our boat another 2.5 hr back into Puno. That is how huge this lake is.
After we got back we were totally starving so we hit up one of the restaurants in the plaza and I tried Vino Caliente. This wine is hot with cinnamon and orange juice and may or may not have been the best wine I've ever had. I took it down with some pizza and garlic bread... was such a fatty. Got back to the hostel, and obviously passed out with a food coma.
After we got back we were totally starving so we hit up one of the restaurants in the plaza and I tried Vino Caliente. This wine is hot with cinnamon and orange juice and may or may not have been the best wine I've ever had. I took it down with some pizza and garlic bread... was such a fatty. Got back to the hostel, and obviously passed out with a food coma.
11/7/14 Last adventure of Peru 2014
After a long day working and spanish class, Julia, Lindsay (two other volunteeers from a different program) and I leave town at 2200 for Puno. Puno is the city that is right on Lake Titicaca. This is the highest lake in the world at an altitude of 5000 meters in some parts. We took an overnight bus, so we should arrive there at about 0600. We bought tickets for a nice bus so our seats transform into beds... kind of. The bus ride went smoothly and everyone slept on and off. We started the trip on the lakefront at about 0730. We went through the introductions and we had people from 6 different countries which I thought was pretty sweet. Our tour guide was Pacha (meaning earth) and thus our group was named Pacha Group. He was the cutest little man and a really awesome tour guide.
Our first stop was the Floating Islands of Uros. They are probably some of the coolest things that I have ever seen. They are kind of a little sustainable village with a floating islands with a small hospital and school for the kids. What they do is there is a certain plant that grows in the water here and the water is much more shallow than other parts so they pile the dried out plant on top of the root of the plant and anchor it with some sort of concoction. After exploring the islands and taking a ride on a traditional water taxi, we were taken by boat to another island called Amantani. The weather was absolutely gorgeous so everyone was really good about reminding to wear sunscreen and drink lots of water since the altitude is so high. Amantani was totally incredible. We were shown to our host family's home (which was a hike) then as a group, we met back up to hike the mountain. The views were breathtaking and the hike was pretty hard but definitely worth it. After we think we have gotten to the top, we see the next two mountains/large hills. One was Pachamama and the other Pachatata. We hike up to Pachatata first, about another 15 minutes. Once at the top, we walk around the temple three times and make a wish each cycle and Pachatata will grant your wishes. After you stand with your arms extended out at your sides, close your eyes and you can feel your fingers and hands tingle. After Pachatata, we headed back down the hill and up the other hill to Pachamama. We arrived just in time for the most beautiful sunset behind the mountains. We were also educated by Pacha (our guide) about the third "being" was Pachacocha (sp?) for water, there was no third mountain to climb for that. Thank goodness, because it was incredibly dark because there is no electricity on the island without sunlight (they use a little solar energy) and after the sun sets, it also gets incredibly cold. We trekked back down the mountain which proved to be trickier than expected in the dark, but finally got home for dinner. Everything was homemade and homegrown. They don't serve meat or fish, solely veggies and rice with soup. After dinner, the family dressed us up in the traditional robes/clothing for both males and females. They were so pretty with tons and tons of different colors and styles. The male outfit was fairly simple with a poncho and specific hat, but the female outfit had many pieces. We had so much fun running around the clothes and on the plus side, the outfit was super warm! We all headed into a village for a dance. The locals lead us in some typical dance moves while a local band played. It was hilarious, hot, very fun and totally exhausting!
Our first stop was the Floating Islands of Uros. They are probably some of the coolest things that I have ever seen. They are kind of a little sustainable village with a floating islands with a small hospital and school for the kids. What they do is there is a certain plant that grows in the water here and the water is much more shallow than other parts so they pile the dried out plant on top of the root of the plant and anchor it with some sort of concoction. After exploring the islands and taking a ride on a traditional water taxi, we were taken by boat to another island called Amantani. The weather was absolutely gorgeous so everyone was really good about reminding to wear sunscreen and drink lots of water since the altitude is so high. Amantani was totally incredible. We were shown to our host family's home (which was a hike) then as a group, we met back up to hike the mountain. The views were breathtaking and the hike was pretty hard but definitely worth it. After we think we have gotten to the top, we see the next two mountains/large hills. One was Pachamama and the other Pachatata. We hike up to Pachatata first, about another 15 minutes. Once at the top, we walk around the temple three times and make a wish each cycle and Pachatata will grant your wishes. After you stand with your arms extended out at your sides, close your eyes and you can feel your fingers and hands tingle. After Pachatata, we headed back down the hill and up the other hill to Pachamama. We arrived just in time for the most beautiful sunset behind the mountains. We were also educated by Pacha (our guide) about the third "being" was Pachacocha (sp?) for water, there was no third mountain to climb for that. Thank goodness, because it was incredibly dark because there is no electricity on the island without sunlight (they use a little solar energy) and after the sun sets, it also gets incredibly cold. We trekked back down the mountain which proved to be trickier than expected in the dark, but finally got home for dinner. Everything was homemade and homegrown. They don't serve meat or fish, solely veggies and rice with soup. After dinner, the family dressed us up in the traditional robes/clothing for both males and females. They were so pretty with tons and tons of different colors and styles. The male outfit was fairly simple with a poncho and specific hat, but the female outfit had many pieces. We had so much fun running around the clothes and on the plus side, the outfit was super warm! We all headed into a village for a dance. The locals lead us in some typical dance moves while a local band played. It was hilarious, hot, very fun and totally exhausting!
Thursday, November 6, 2014
11/5/14: day of gifts
This morning I started the day with a youtube video that someone had posted on facebook. I opened it without intention as I scrolled through my newsfeed while eating breakfast. It was an add for an insurance company, and it was about a man who throughout the day gave back to the community by extremely simple gestures, compassion, and generosity. The video almost brought me to tears it was so amazing and touching. It really made me think about how I wanted to spend my time, help people with the skills I have acquired, and be so intentional with how I interact with the community.
What an amazing way to start out my day. I don't know if it was because of the video or what but the day was wonderful. Started out the day at the clinic and made some relationships with the kids even stronger.. tried to come up with new things to do and we actually got to take the kids outside which was awesome. Headed home and had a nice quiet lunch alone while the kids were at school and then headed to the plaza. Spent some time in a new coffee/pastry place... there are so many to try because they are everywhere. I fell in love with this one and of course it was toward the end of my stay because I would definitely make that place "my spot." Had some coffee and the best chocolate cake I've had maybe ever. I sat by the window and it's off a fairly busy walkway so had some awesome people watching as well. Saw a peruvian man with a packer sweatshirt on so that kinda threw me off, but in the best way possible. Headed to the famous Avenida Del Sol artisan market to get all my gifts for you people... don't worry, they are you christmas gifts too :) But since this video had me in a mood, I was a bit obnoxiously more generous that normal! Love the stuff I picked out for everyone so I'm really excited to make the rounds when I get home. The only problem to figure out now is how to get it all home cuz all that stuff definitely isn't fitting in my suitcase.
What an amazing way to start out my day. I don't know if it was because of the video or what but the day was wonderful. Started out the day at the clinic and made some relationships with the kids even stronger.. tried to come up with new things to do and we actually got to take the kids outside which was awesome. Headed home and had a nice quiet lunch alone while the kids were at school and then headed to the plaza. Spent some time in a new coffee/pastry place... there are so many to try because they are everywhere. I fell in love with this one and of course it was toward the end of my stay because I would definitely make that place "my spot." Had some coffee and the best chocolate cake I've had maybe ever. I sat by the window and it's off a fairly busy walkway so had some awesome people watching as well. Saw a peruvian man with a packer sweatshirt on so that kinda threw me off, but in the best way possible. Headed to the famous Avenida Del Sol artisan market to get all my gifts for you people... don't worry, they are you christmas gifts too :) But since this video had me in a mood, I was a bit obnoxiously more generous that normal! Love the stuff I picked out for everyone so I'm really excited to make the rounds when I get home. The only problem to figure out now is how to get it all home cuz all that stuff definitely isn't fitting in my suitcase.
11/6/14 no
Tweaked my back today so that was fun. I'm actually surprised it didn't happen earlier... either way it sucks and of course it happens right before the weekend trip. Hi bed. Hi icy hot. Hi medication. It's good to see you guys again... not. bye.
11/4/14: bingo and trivia
After quite the average day, some girls I met at the clinic knew of a local place that hosted bingo and trivia as a sort of fundraiser for their volunteer organization. Also, an added plus, if you were a volunteer anywhere, you got happy hour which was bomb. I ended up winning bingo so I got extra drinks :) Trivia was an interesting story.... the announcers seemed to speak both spanish and english but not necessarily one or the other, spanglish if you will. So we were constantly asking them to repeat the questions which got irritating but whatever. We still ended up winning the game and got a bottle of wine so that was exciting. Reminded me of the days in college when we had activities like that every day of the week... missing those days... wish the trivia crew would have been here to help decipher the game.
11/2/14-11/3/14 final days of the boleta
Sunday: Kiva and I hit up the Chinchero ruins as a part of the Boleta Turistico. The town is extremely small with not a whole lot to do other than the ruins and the market. I got there around noon and Kiva's bus decided to make a million stops so I wandered around for a while while I waited for her. The market was probably the coolest thing all day. It is the most authentic market I think I have come across. So many fun things for really cheap but I didn't want to buy stuff and then have to carry it all over the ruins. After Kiva arrived we hiked up to the ruins and wandered around for a while. These ruins aren't very big and to be honest there wasn't much to look at so we headed back to Cusco fairly quickly. We got back and hung out for a bit before a cultural dance show that we got with the boleta. We had to get there early or else the place fills up because it's a very small theatre. It was very interesting to be a part of. Somewhat similar to the cultural play that I went to. The play started with some typical dances and that is what this entire show consisted of. The costumes were amazing and the people involved were all incredible.
Monday: After work all morning, Kiva trekked her way to Cusco again and we hit the last three ruins on our boleta. They were all very close to the saksaywaman. All very beautiful and some amazing views of the city.
Monday: After work all morning, Kiva trekked her way to Cusco again and we hit the last three ruins on our boleta. They were all very close to the saksaywaman. All very beautiful and some amazing views of the city.
Saturday, November 1, 2014
10/31/14-11/1/14 Halloween weekend
So halloween was fun. Recreated the Cool Runnings costume from college... worked like a charm. Mostly, I'm cheap and didn't want to buy a costume so just got some colored tape and called it a night! Got a ton of compliments and a ton of weird looks along with the line "so what are you TRYING to be?" Trying? seriously? I looked bomb, let's be real. And why have you never seen cool runnings... losers. We started off in the plaza and it was loco. So many people, so many kids, it was awesome. Again with the photos... we were asked on multiple occasions if we would take pictures with them, obviously we agreed and met some really fun people. We made our way through the bars, had a huge group of people so it was a bit tricky to keep everyone together... we failed miserably, obviously. Met three new friends at the new clinic and I was actually able to meet up with them which was nice, they are super fun. Had a bit of a mishap with a volunteer needing to go to the hospital but other than that, the night was a total blast. The bars don't close until approximately 6 in the morning here... why? don't ask me, it's nuts. But what did we do? Stayed out and about until the sun came up. Walking home in the light was weird and exhausting. Let's just say, we were trying to fit in? ;) We ended the night at McDonalds... yes they have Micky-D's here and yes I spent 20 soles on food. Again, don't judge me. Side note... their Mcflurry's here are like 20x better than ours.
As per usual the morning after I drink, I woke up a couple hours later at like 8:30, we had a leisurely morning reminiscing about the night, had a bomb brunch at a popular spot called Jax's. For the rest of the day, Kiva (otra voluntaria) and I made our way around to all of the Cusco museums with our tourist ticket. Had another beautiful day to make our way around the city, however, a total exhausting day after such a long night. The museums were very pretty and the buildings equally as pretty. I'm starting to be a bit more conversational with my Spanish so after getting home from the long day, had a nice chat with the fam. Hitting up a popular pizza place tonight with some girls, keeping it a bit more tame than last night.
As per usual the morning after I drink, I woke up a couple hours later at like 8:30, we had a leisurely morning reminiscing about the night, had a bomb brunch at a popular spot called Jax's. For the rest of the day, Kiva (otra voluntaria) and I made our way around to all of the Cusco museums with our tourist ticket. Had another beautiful day to make our way around the city, however, a total exhausting day after such a long night. The museums were very pretty and the buildings equally as pretty. I'm starting to be a bit more conversational with my Spanish so after getting home from the long day, had a nice chat with the fam. Hitting up a popular pizza place tonight with some girls, keeping it a bit more tame than last night.
10/29/14 Clinica San Juan de Dios
Today was my first day in the new clinic - Clinica San Juan de Dios. It is a clinic that is for kids with neurologic disorders. After not doing much in my last clinic, I had high hopes that this one would really need and want the help. I walked in and instantly fell in love. It is a newer building and very well kept. The kids were all in the dining area playing with other volunteers while I got the low down on how the place worked. The other volunteers were very nice and welcoming - some speaking only spanish and some speaking only english. I think I should able to practice my spanish a bit more here since I will actually be interacting with the kids and staff/other volunteers compared to the last clinic. One of the other volunteers brought his ukelele so the morning was filled with a lot of great music. The volunteer work consists of trying to give the kids with sensory stimulation and human interaction. Without the volunteers there, the kids pretty much sit in their wheelchairs and watch cartoons... not so good for the brain. Since some of us volunteers are a bit more trained, we are able to push the kids a bit more with their physical therapy which is really great for them. We stay through the lunch period and feed all of the kids. It was a little frustrating to see how some of the staff feed the kids, especially the ones that needed more attention and time. It seemed like a rushed event which, to me, should be something that should be completed with caution considering the choking risks. However, most the nurses have awesome relationships with the kids which is great. The kids range in age from babies to teens and range in capability from completely dependent to mostly independent. I am also able help the nurses with their work which is awesome. I just feel a lot more needed here and am able to actually put my skills to work which is so nice. Overall, super jacked about the switch.
This afternoon I met up with some other volunteers and went to the Ollantaytambo ruins with our tourist pass. It was a gorgeous afternoon, and had a good time exploring the grounds for like an hour. We headed back to town (a super small town that you can walk everywhere) and the plaza is packed with people. There is a big stage set up for a band, bleachers for people to sit, food everywhere, and beer everywhere. It takes some getting used to to see people just openly walking around town with alcohol, super strange but super awesome. We come to find out that it is the anniversary of the town of Ollantaytambo so there is a huge celebration. The band starts and it's kinda modern music but in Quechua. There is a group of older folk in front of the stage that is all dancing and drinking and generally really enjoying themselves. As we stood and observed the crowd, an older woman came over and grabbed my hand, brought me to the center, poured me some beer, and told me to dance. Another older man took the hand of my friend and we made our way around the dance floor. It was quite the experience and very fun.
I get off the bus from Ollanta, it's dark, and I have literally no clue where I am in Cusco (Cusco is huge and there are a couple different bus stations). I start chatting with a Peruvian girl on the bus and she is probably one of the nicest people I have met here. She is with her little girl and happens to be heading to the plaza which is were I needed to be. So she invites me to walk and come with her to destination, we chat in spanish the whole walk (about 20 minutes) and we make tentative plans to hang out on halloween! After, I met up with some other volunteers from a different program and we got dinner for one of their birthdays. We went to a place called Papacho's. It was a little touristy and expensive but soooooo delicious. I got myself quite the elaborate burger... don't judge me. I was starving.
This afternoon I met up with some other volunteers and went to the Ollantaytambo ruins with our tourist pass. It was a gorgeous afternoon, and had a good time exploring the grounds for like an hour. We headed back to town (a super small town that you can walk everywhere) and the plaza is packed with people. There is a big stage set up for a band, bleachers for people to sit, food everywhere, and beer everywhere. It takes some getting used to to see people just openly walking around town with alcohol, super strange but super awesome. We come to find out that it is the anniversary of the town of Ollantaytambo so there is a huge celebration. The band starts and it's kinda modern music but in Quechua. There is a group of older folk in front of the stage that is all dancing and drinking and generally really enjoying themselves. As we stood and observed the crowd, an older woman came over and grabbed my hand, brought me to the center, poured me some beer, and told me to dance. Another older man took the hand of my friend and we made our way around the dance floor. It was quite the experience and very fun.
I get off the bus from Ollanta, it's dark, and I have literally no clue where I am in Cusco (Cusco is huge and there are a couple different bus stations). I start chatting with a Peruvian girl on the bus and she is probably one of the nicest people I have met here. She is with her little girl and happens to be heading to the plaza which is were I needed to be. So she invites me to walk and come with her to destination, we chat in spanish the whole walk (about 20 minutes) and we make tentative plans to hang out on halloween! After, I met up with some other volunteers from a different program and we got dinner for one of their birthdays. We went to a place called Papacho's. It was a little touristy and expensive but soooooo delicious. I got myself quite the elaborate burger... don't judge me. I was starving.
10/28/14 Peru for life
Although my experience in the Clinica Peruano Suiza was starting to get better (after complaining on multiple occasions and harassing the staff to let me help), I was still looking for other opportunities where I could help and use my skills as a nurse. I met some girls with a different volunteer program that works with a house for teen moms. They help with education on caring for baby, health of mom, placement for housing after they leave the house and sometimes job placements. It is a sort of transition housing but some girls can/will live there for years. The ages range from 11-18ish. Most of the girls are victims of abuse and rape from family members, child prostitution, etc. It is very sad but also so awesome that they have this place where they can find support and help. Today was my first day there and it was amazing. The coordinator picked me up on her way home from the hospital with one of the moms who has just had her baby. She had quite the complicated situation with severe pre-eclampsia, c/section, sepsis, etc so she was ready to rest. The coordinator was so excited to have someone with the training I have had there with the girls. She said the staff working there really don't know much about the topics of breastfeeding and proper ways to care for babies (which confused me but I didn't press the topic). They specialize more in the mental and placement aspects. Without the volunteers contributions to this organization, I don't think they would survive. So I'm really excited to be able to help. When we got to the house I met all the girls and their babies. The afternoon I was there, I did so much breastfeeding education, it was so fun. I didn't realize how much I missed working with that population. The girls were so welcoming and accepting of my advice and adjustments to their breastfeeding. It was nice to practice my spanish with them as well. We did some education on some baby cares for the new mom such as giving a bath, breastfeeding, burping, and generally caring for her baby. I didn't want to leave!! Some of the volunteers live there, and I was feeling a little jealous... especially because they can snuggle and hang with the babies whenever they want!! I am currently working on a breastfeeding presentation for the girls to see pictures and really understand how to give their baby the best food and enough food. I am super excited to help give the presentation and help them learn about their body's and their babies!
10/26/14 holy hangover
Well after such a late night, we had quite the early morning. For some reason whenever I drink, I have the hardest time sleeping in. But when afternoon comes, I'm down for the count. We had a pretty leisurely morning with breakfast and coffee, and more coffee. We made our way to the Pisac ruins. They are about 45 minutes outside of Cusco. Got a bomb lunch there, perfect cure to my hangover. Hitched a ride in a cab to get the the top of the ruins (because its like a 4 hour hike and lets be real, that wasn't gonna happen today). Unfortunately we had a time restraint there and could only look around for like an hour, and this place is huge and sooo cool. So we were a bit bummed about that but still enjoyed trekking around the mountain to the different sets of ruins. Had another beautiful day for hiking. When it started to get dark, we went out separate ways, got home and crashed. Barely remember the FaceTime sessions with the rents and tanner. Goooodddd niiiggghhhtttt!!!
10/25/14 Party like a rockstar
Today two other volunteers (Kiva and Hannah) and I bought this tourist ticket that gets you into all sorts of different ruins, museums, and activities. It only lasts for 10 days, so its going to be a busy week. Today we started out with a trek up to the Cusco ruins - Saksaywaman and Cristo Blanco. It was a bit of the trek, but it felt good once we got to the top. There were lots of school groups there which I thought was interesting. Thinking back to my school field trips...farms and oh yeah, more farms. They were nothing compared to a trip like this! I was feeling jealous of the kids. We made our way down after doing some exploring and checked into our hostel - Wild Rover. We relaxed a bit then met up with the rest of the volunteers for our volunteer social for the week. This week was salsa lessons. I had already done some lessons so I "kind of" knew what I was doing. It was fun but with a lack of male partners was a little tricky. After our lessons we hit the town... boy do they know how to party. Woof. We made our way around the bars and discotecas and had a blast. It was a late night thats for sure. Met some awesome people and made some plans for halloween.
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