I've lived at sea level all my life, but in Quito, I live at over 9,000 feet above that level. When you're so high up, there's less oxygen, which can affect your body in different ways. Because of the altitude, I get out of breath more easily, I had a hard time sleeping at first, and things taste a little different. I also have to pee all the time because I'm drinking a ton of water to combat dehydration. Unfortunately, most of Ecuador's bathrooms don't have toilet paper! I found that out the hard way... don't ask! Now, I remember to bring toilet paper wherever I go.
I like to go to new places whenever I can, because I am an adventurer at heart. Other than Ecuador, I've been to Egypt, Iceland, England, Norway, Canada and Mexico. My favorite thing to do in a new place is try the food. I like to cook and bake, so I'm always looking for new recipe ideas. Of course, I haven't liked everything I've tried. Lutefisk, from Norway, literally tastes and feels like fish Jello! Not my favorite!
There are lots of places in the world I could have chosen to apply for when I became a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant if food were the only thing important to me. Italy is still on my list of places to visit for that very reason. However, I chose Ecuador because I needed to pick a country that speaks Spanish, and because I love the nature here in Ecuador. I love butterflies especially, and there are about 4,000 species in the country. Look up the glasswing butterfly when you get the chance. It's amazing!
I tend to see beauty everywhere because I'm an artist, so of course butterflies appeal to me. However, there is beauty all around, even if it doesn't jump out at first. Sometimes the beauty is very obvious.
