Impressions

1/10 of our trip has slipped away into the Andies. We are not sure how a week has passed already, but the time is rolling like the hills we live in. Speaking of which, we got a closer look at these 'hills' on Thursday, when Arlene took us up to El Refugio, a youth retreat camp about 30 minutes from where we we are staying. The missionary couple that runs it has been away in the states and Arlene and Erin are currently 'on call' to exercise the horses. James and I thought a ride through the Andies would be kind of romantic... so we caught, combed, saddled and mounted our steeds, and envisioned a lovely stroll in the hills.

And then Espanola bolted and all chaos broke loose.

She went straight up (and I mean straight up) the mountain, and in about 3 seconds, our 'meandering' notion was shattered, Erin was out of sight completely, and we just sat there like idiots wondering what the heck just happened to our leader and her horse.

If there is one thing I would like to have recorded, it would be the look on my face.

Anyways, we didn't really have a choice but to follow, or at least attempt to, and so with a kick of the heels, we too began the ascent.

Needless to say, the horses carried us proudly across their terrain, stopped to let us take photos, and once we reached the summit, briskly brought us back home. Except for James' horse. 16 years old with some sort of hobble in his step... they took it easy in the homestretch.

Some photos.

Jesse, I wish you could remember being 6 months old.

Erin, leading the way home ( she saved the easy trail for the return trip)
James, Dakota, and an Easter cross at the summit overlooking the town below.
I think Mars had a skin condition, which resulted in his need to scratch his head on anything and anyone. Myself, in particular.
James, getting acquainted.

Jesse and I on the front porch of the Jonkman's. Yellow hibiscus are now my favourite.
Second game of bball for James. Both lungs and attire more suited for the game.
Guagua de pan for 'dia de muerto' (all saints day) An Ecuadorian tradition involving bread, icing, and a group of people who want to eat something tasty.Women's bible study. That's Arlene standing up. She's discussing the upcoming women's retreat and trying to get volunteers to do the groceries :)

That's all for now. More "impressions" coming soon :)