One of the most beautiful places I've seen recently was the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco in historic Quito. It's huge, with towering, intricately carved pillars and a gilded interior. I did a tour and it was breathtaking...and not just because of the altitude! I even got to go on the roof, though I had to climb lots of stairs. After that, I was really out of breath! It was totally worth it for the view, though.
I'm so excited to go on more adventures, and to take you all along with me. My first priority is teaching English, but I try to squeeze in an adventure at least once a week. Sometimes I end up having adventures I really didn't mean to have or even want to have! Recently, I spent four hours standing in line waiting for my cédula (identification card). When it was finally my turn, I found out I was in the wrong line to begin with! Another hour later, I got my cédula. I look like a ghost in it. Nonetheless, even though my plans didn't go the way I wanted to, I still learned a lot. While I was waiting, I learnt about the Ecuadorian constitution, which grants rights to nature itself. I also learned to never be afraid to ask if you're in the right line!
One of the most important things I learned over time is a phrase in Spanish known as por fin (pronounced "poor feen"). It means "finally". I included it in the title here because I know we've all been waiting for this journey to start. Even though you can't be with me in Ecuador, I hope all of you are experiencing everyday adventures. Look for the beauty in the world, because it's everywhere. Stay curious! We are ready to start exploring, por fin!
