Participants Blog

First Impressions

Driving into the communities of Cayambe in our taxi was probably one of the most nerve racking things that I have ever had to do in my life. Every time the taxi came to a halt, my heart skipped a beat. I had a million questions and very few answers. Would I get along with my host family? Would they like me? How would we communicate with each other?

    That being said, the first day came and went and everything was okay. Yes, things did take time to adjust to, but soon enough I felt quite comfortable living with my host family and felt like a part of the family. My family´s welcoming and open nature truly helped me with the transition. This friendly attitude extended out into the community where I was also welcomed with warm smiles and polite nods.

    Early mornings and a full day´s work are typical for my family and the rest of the community. Things have to get done and every family member has to pull their own weight. Together the community works together on community projects as well as help out each other. Without this combined effort, very few families would be able to handle the work load. This means that mothers with babies on their back, young school children, and men and women past their age of retirement are out on the fields tending to their crops. It is humbling to see them do all this hard work and it reminds of of the many things that I take for granted back home.

  As the sun sets into the valley and the clouds sweep down the endless mountain sides I am reminded of how lucky I am to be able to have such an experience. Though it may be challenging, I have gotten so much out of this journey already.