It's Raining... In the Amazon Rain Forest...

On Thursday the 13^th of December, I stayed at home for the afternoon to pack my suitcase full of clothing and bug repellent. I left at 11:30pm to wait at a gas station to catch a bus at midnight—though, it came around 1. With pillow in hand, I fell asleep and woke up a number of times until I woke up at 4:30, at which point, I was unable to sleep more.

We got to the airport in Quito around 7, ate breakfast, got our tickets, worried about our names being spelled wrong, and waited. Emma Yearger passed through security and got on a plane around 11.

We got off the plane around 20 minutes later in El Coca, the capital of Orellanas, and hopped on a bus. In less than 5 minutes, we got to a place where we stopped to eat lunch, change clothes, and pack on the bug repellent. After that, we crossed the street and got in a boat, where we went about 90km east on the Napo River, finally arriving at Sacha Lodge around 4pm.

Day 1

We were told the basic rules, given snacks, chose groups, received rain boots, and sat down for a relaxing few minutes before dinner. We sat in groups, and found out our names; we were called Mono, or Monkey. I was grateful the Monos had a grave desire to speak Spanish as much as English, so I knew my Spanish was not going to suffer when I returned. However, when we got our rooms, there was an odd number of men and women, so I asked to share a room with 2 other girls, rather than be left alone. They offered me a room all by myself, but I’d rather share when I have the ability to spend time with other exchange students.

That night, we went on a night walk at 8, and saw bugs and plants, and tarantulas. So many tarantulas. At the exact moment we made it back to our rooms, it began to rain. At least we had good timing!

Day 2

We woke up at 5:30am and trudged our way down to breakfast at 6. I was overjoyed when I served myself a plate of pancakes, something my family has probably never heard of.

At 6:30, we were heade off on our second adventure: the canopy. I don’t fear animals, blood, or getting burned by the Ecuadorian sun, however, I have a deathly fear of heights. We were probably around 15 stories above the ground on metal towers that were connected by a skinny, shacky, suspension bridge. It was gorgeous, but I would not be likely to do that again (or so I thought…kind of…).

After we walked back, a bunch of us jumped into the black water lagoon. A few of the animals that live in it are sardines, piranhas, and caiman. I fished after climbing out, but had no luck catching anything. I heard that people who catch a piranha get to eat it for their next meal. I wasn’t in the mood for fish, so I guess I was in luck. After, I went to shower, eat lunch, take a nap, and prepare for our next adventure.

We went in a boat for a little while, saw millions of monos, and then got to semi-dry land. We went on a walk where we were supposed to see snakes. I was very disappointed we didn’t. We went back to camp and were denied our request to jump in the lagoon and swim to shore. By 4, when we left, the caiman begin to come out. Apparently, if the piranhas don’t nibble at your toes, the caiman will!

 While the other groups went on night excursions after dinner, I was left completely alone in our cabin. I listened to the jungle until I calmly fell asleep.

Day 3

Once again, we started our day before the sun rose, and were in a boat heading to the Napo River by 6:30. Just as we got to our first destination, it began to rain. The parrots we were supposed to see were trying to keep dry, so I am sad to say, I didn’t see any! After that, we went to a native village where native women live. They showed us two dances, explained type of house they live in, and how they trapped animals. We were allowed to try one trap, which traditionally is a man in a tree with a long hollow stick shooting poison darts at birds. We were allowed to try the non-traditional method on the ground with non-poisoned darts and a fake bird. I was the first to go, and I hit the bird! I believe if the dart wasn’t poisoned, I would have only wounded it.

We got back in time to change before lunch. After eating, I decided to go down to the dock again and began videotaping people jumping into the lagoon. A native guide caught some piranhas, so I was able to realize what I was in the lagoon with. I am just glad they like carne de res more than carne de mi cuerpo! I wasn’t expecting to get in, until I had no time to change, so I jumped into the lake with my clothing. I asked someone to take pictures, and I nearly ran to my room so I wouldn’t be late for our next adventure.

As we crossed the lagoon again, I saw a caiman about 10 feet away from where I had just been swimming, and was glad I got out when I did! We found ourselves at the base of a gigantic tree with a staircase built around it leading almost to the top. We climbed it, and what a view it was. There were some guys who told me it took about 5 seconds for spit to reach the bottom. If that doesn’t tell you how high we were, I would say we were around 10-12 stories above ground. It was beautiful, but the fogged glory had to end as we climbed down. We walked for a few minutes to a zip line. It was no more than a wooden swing and less than a 30 foot wire, and no more than 30 feet above the ground, but nonetheless, being on it for the mere few seconds was a blast. We then went back to the boat and headed back to the hotel.

Once again, our offer to “lighten the load” was refused, but I still got in a shower when we got back. After dinner, we went on a night adventure in the lagoon. We were looking for caiman. The French exchange student next to me grabbed my burned back in fear a number of times, and had no fear shouting “EYES” at every turn. Eventually, the native guide found one, and I was second to spot it. It was the only one we saw that night, but it was amazing to see.

Day 4

We got to sleep in until 6:15, where I took a hot shower and braided my hair, ready to be in a boat, a plane, and on a bus until 9:30 that night. We ate our last meal together as a group, departed to the lagoon, and had one last picture together as a group. I felt it ended too soon as we went back the way we came.

So much to say, so much time...

The following was written on 11/19/2012.

  They say that after the third month, you can see the change, the real improvement. For some, it's the ability to have a conversation, for others, it's the ability to understand jokes. For me, I can understand at a normal speaking rate. There are still words that I don't understand, and times I have to ask someone to say a word a time or two until it makes sense. However, more often than not, I can understand at a fluent rate. Don't get me wrong, I know I still make mistakes, and am not fluent in Spanish, but in reality, this is not my native language, but I'm working hard each day to learn, to become fluent.

Recently, I asked permission to study other things in school in the classes I don't understand: Physics, Technical Drawings, Civics--like history and government, Language, Investigation, Chemistry, and Lab/Physics. I participate in math, English, and PE. Now, I spend time reviewing parts of Spanish that I still confuse, and try to help the other exchange student. I want to buy a children's book that is around 4th or 5th grade level to read and find complex words.

The other day, I was talking to a priest. He asked many questions, and gave many examples about the USA. A few things that he said were true, that we work too much, spend too little time with family, live a life of work without play. We do it for our children, and they do it for their children. It's an ongoing pattern that I want to change: Work for myself, because it's what I want to do, and get better for my children. And he said something that I liked to hear: religion is a gift that someone finds in themselves; it cannot be forced on someone.

On Friday, we went to a fashion show to raise money for Christmas for children. My sister was a model, and she was gorgeous, as usual. She and my mom really know how to dress. We didn't stay for the after party.

Saturday, I spent time with my first family-the one I left. It was nice to spend time with them, but I really understand why I changed families...

Sunday was the day of a virgin in the catholic religion. We went to Monte Criste to go to a mass. The line was over 5 blocks long to see the virgin, and there was a mass (that most people had to stand to be present) every hour for two days. It was a really pretty church, and the sound it produced when everyone sang... That was the best part for a music nerd.

Thursday is Thanksgiving, and I believe my only plans are to explain what the holiday is, where it originated from, and what it means to me. I might even color something in school that says, "Feliz Dia del Accion Gracias." Friday is my 3 months, and Black Friday. Again, I believe my only plans are to explain what the holiday is, and color something.

The following was written on 11/20/2012.

I've been in 3 car accidents in my life... Well, I consider them car accidents... Anyway, the first was with my dad in the states when we dent the license plate. The second was when my host mom nearly killed a dog, but she didn't. It just walked away with a limp. It gave me a stomach ache. The third... Here is the real story... In Ecuador, there is not "lane" for driving in small cities, just...a lot of people who have little respect for the rules. My sisters and I were going home from our dad's shop, and we took a taxi. The taxi driver had his blinker on to go right, and we were in the right most part of the road. However, apparently there was just enough space for a POLICE motorcycle to pass. We ended up hitting him, even though he was in the wrong. He parked, and we were still sitting in the middle of the intersection, and the taxi driver GOT OUT OF HIS TAXI and then started YELLING at the police officer. Yes, that's right, in the middle of the intersection yelling at the police officer. "The blinker was on! Just look at it!" Over and over! Then, my two sisters started saying, "Here we are, the witnesses that the blinker was on!" A bunch of people were crowded around us by that time. We were still in the middle of the intersection. Then, the police officer just got on his motorcycle with a ticked off look and rode away with shouts from the crowd of "CORRUPT!" flying after him. I got the chance to look at the taxi, and it was a little scratch, but nonetheless, I was shocked at this occurrence! I mean, really, shouting at a police officer, and then him just driving away...So, there is my long story from last night... Learn something new everyday, don't we?

After that shocking event, we saw some people hanging lights on our fake Christmas tree next door, which is where we are making a Christmas scene for the kids. We went and helped for nearly two hours, then stayed and talked before heading off to bed.

The following is written on Thanksgiving Day, 2012.

Today is Thanksgiving. What I learned about being here is he ability to think After explaining the meaning to the country, I was able to reflect on what it means to me: family, food (of course), happiness, and a family card game. Now for the thankfulness: I am grateful to be in Ecuador with my amazing friends and family, the fact that I am alive and living a great life, that school is canceled tomorrow (hey,I have to think like a teenager sometimes) so everyone can study for a college entrance test on Saturday, and so much more. Life is good.

The following was written on 11/27/2012.

I got a package from my mom yesterday! That made me so excited and happy and felt like life was the bomb! It was just what I needed, and the funny thing was I was most excited to see her handwriting... Of everything in the box I wanted, it was her handwriting that made me feel at home and relaxed. Wow, the things you learn to miss while on another continent for three months.

The following was written on 11/28/2012.

Stress exists in every language, every culture, every place in the world. My host sister has been more and more stressed each day since I moved in. I thought it was something wrong between US, because she would only ever play on her phone with a really worried and upset face. Yesterday, she was the only one in the room, and I had to take my nieces baby bag downstairs. I walked in, a bit nervous, and asked, "Is there anything else that goes in here?" She said, "No, just that," but she said it NICELY! I walked to the door and said, "I feel like you're not very stressed today." "No, its been my homework. I didn't have any today. It's just so much!" "Oh! I thought there was something wrong between US!!!" "No! No, no, no!" I nearly broke down crying right there because of how happy that made me. I have been walking on egg shells trying to figure out what was wrong for weeks! She is just so stressed! I hope I never stop talking to people when I get stressed... Gosh, that  sure was a scare!

After this partial scare and relief, we went downstairs to eat and play "Amigos Secretos" which roughly translates to "Secret Santa." I got someone I have NEVER met before, and lives in the USA. It's my...wait, should I be telling you this? Oh well, just...keep it a secret, okay?...sister-in-law's sister. Her name is Josefita. Other than that, I know ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ABOUT HER! What in the world can I get her?! The limit is $20, and it would be really cool for it to be something Ecuadorian that isn't in the states. How does a bunch of plantains sound? Or maybe yuca flour?Hmmm... Jewelry is also pretty cheap here. Well, more so than in the states. I'm not ure what to get her! GAH! Anyone have any ideas?

My mom, with LOADS of help from my sister, Misty, is sending my lots of clothing and Victoria's Secret Lip Gloss. I'm going to sell it to go on the Galapagos trip. I will also gift some of it to my family. Anyway, I have already told two Rotarians about this, and will tell the rest tonight. This club has been so great and so interested in my life.

The following was written on 11/29/2012.

In two weeks tonight, I will be headed to the Amazon! I realized that last night at the Rotary meeting. I can't wait!

That's not all that happened though. In short, Barcelona is the soccer champion in Ecuador. So, of course, EVERYONE (about 70% of the country is a Barcelonista) went in the street and did a caravan. We couldn't get back to the house because they were blocking the way, so we went and waited with the club president and his family. It was about 10 at night, and there was this drunk guy. He decided to come after me. After being turned down by my mother, he waited about fibe minutes and tried to introduce himself to my father. When turned down, the the Rotary Club President. When turned down once more, to me...again. He only stopped bugging us when my mom threatened to call the police. 35ish year old drunk guys should NOT go after 17 year old girls. It's NOT cool. Thank you very much. However, watching the caravan was pretty sweet. There had to be at LEAST 50 motorcycles and 100 cars all gamed to their max holding rate making a ruckus on the streets. It lasted around an hour. Honk!

The following was written on 6/12/2012.

Last Friday was my uncle’s graduation from college. He studied for six years to become a lawyer. I went to his graduation and graduation party. It was pretty cool, but we left at midnight, and got home just before 3. I was tired after being awake from 6am to 1am (I took an hour nap in the car).

Yesterday, we had a dinner for my brother’s birthday. He turned 21. It was just the family, but it was nice. I felt a little bad about skipping the Rotary meeting, though. Apparently, not even the president showed up last night, so I guess missing one meeting was okay. They ate pig, and when it was cooking, I smelled my dad making food on the grill. I heard my mom telling him to shut the door. It was a calming flashback, because it’s happened since I was tiny. I ate plantains and salad, afraid of the stomach pain sure to follow the red meat. Then, we sat around talking, and playing with the one year old kids. They got so many pictures taken with the Christmas Decorations. I went upstairs at 11:17pm, and felt the urge to write. Here’s what came out:

Que veo yo?

Por el norte: land

Por el sur: land

Este, oeste: land

No borders, no boundries

Solamente land

O hay colores, ni diferencias

To distinguish a group

Solamente nosotros

Como somos.

Con ojos cerrados

And hearts beating as one,

Cogimos las manos

Men and women

Black and white

Somos mismos

When I open my eyes,

Que veo yo?

Land

Eyes open wide,

Corriendo a su pais

Because the borders still exist

Y solamente algunos pueden estar

I shut my eyes again,

Wishing the borders away

Pero eso no es possible

In the future, maybe

Until then

The select few will go

Y aprender como ser mismos

Los jovenes, los adultos

Will be as one

I feel the two languages fit perfectly, because the poem is dreaming of understanding oneness. That’s how I feel about being here on exchange…

The Wedding and El Paseo Manabi! And other stuff...

So, I went to a wedding. Well, I didn´t go to the ceremony, because everyone was a bit late, but I did go to the reception. It was pretty cool! There were beautiful tables, and everyone was all dressed up in gowns and suits! There was food, that was imported from Manta, and alcohol (no, gracias--how many times must I say that to the same person?), and dancing, and loud music--I swear I´m going to be deaf when I leave!!

So dear ones who just absolutely love and hate my blog all at the same time, I must begin with this: When on the coast with a bunch of other exchange students, just have the time of your life, and DON’T GET BURNED! Or bitten by bugs. I was smart enough to only go in the sun in a bathing suit once with sun screen on. However, that didn’t last very long when I went on the banana boat…and fell into the water, so of course, it wore off a little. We fell in the water 4 times, and the 3^rd, EVERYONE (7 others) fell on my back, and I feel as though I have whip lash from it—needless to say, I need a chiropractor again. L However, there are amazing people, and I will never say goodbye to them. To the Brazilians and Australian who are going back before the next trip, I will miss you all, but I will never say good bye. There will always be a spot in my heart for you! Anyway, after that heart touching moment, I now am going to move on to something that I have fear of: lap dances. I say this sarcastically, “thank you for pushing me into the chair that is in the middle of the circle. Thank you so much.” Never ever get pushed into the chair. Ever. A lap dance is just plain awkward for me. Oh, and I got married. To a guy from Colorado. By a French priest. With a French witness. And an American witness. They were also the groomsman and bridesmaid. Yeah, we got divorced the next day. Shows you how long relationships last when one of the rings is drawn on by marker! Now for the VERY scary part, of which I do NOT mean sarcastically. I was lucky that my room was not broken into, and my things were not stolen. There were people who were staying in the hotel—of which was reserved ONLY for the exchange students and Rotarians who were staying with us—who broke in, or opened the door and took some very nice things, including a credit card, many cameras, many cell phones, and honestly, that scares me. My room was lucky enough not to be raided, except when the police came to check it out. They, however, did not look in any of the bathrooms, only the suitcases. It was not the fact that the people stole things, but we were supposed to be on a safe Rotary trip, and people were able to WALK INTO OUR ROOMS at night when we were supposedly SAFELY SLEEPING. I mean, of course I trust the other exchange students and Rotarians, but I believe that there was someone who worked in the hotel that cannot be trusted. I just cannot believe someone would have the heart to steal from exchange students who are paying to stay there.

Now, we must carry on to another lovely topic! I was a dama (which honestly, I can only translate to brides maid, but without being a bride) for my sister! She is the queen of Club La Union, and her crowning was Saturday. I learned a dance, and felt awkward when my caballero (translates to gentleman) was shorter than me. He was the same height, until I put on these 3ish inch heels. He kept trying to look taller, poor guy! It was amazing, and I did dance, horribly, but I did… People would be proud (at times). Anyway, I had fun, and went home EARLY at 3:30ish. In the morning.

The day after, I was woken up at 10 to go to El Carmen to visit some cousins. It was really fun. Right now, there is a little girl who is in my bathroom (my cousin, don’t get it all confused, I don’t let random little girls in my bathroom) who will be staying with us for a few days.  Her name is Yuliana, and she is a doll. She will be turning 8 pretty soon, and I just love her! I love that age, just old enough to know right from wrong, and yet still innocent and sweet!

Tomorrow is my birthday, so we are going to have a dinner with 5 of my classmates. I’m pretty happy for that, but I won’t “muerda la torta! Muerda la torta!” Though, it does sound yummy!! The one thing though, is I cannot believe I’m going to be 17 tomorrow. I just feel like a few months ago I got used to saying 16!

This week, we don’t have school because it’s The Day of the Dead on Thursday and Friday. I’m loving the no school thing! It makes me happy!

Something else I hate to admit, to myself as well as to the public, is that I feel closer to some family here then I do in the states. For example, I feel more a part of Isabella’s (my niece in Ecuador) than I do my two nieces back in the states. However, when I get to thinking about this, I think, “Well, Emma, it looks like when you get back, things are going to have to be a little bit different.” I want to be part of each life of my family member’s. If I am related to someone, whether it be distantly, or very close, I want to be part of their lives. I feel as though this culture has not taught me that, but has pushed it to the front of my thoughts.

Chao for now from Chone!

Oh, and PS: Ecuadorians, please don’t ask me to translate any more dirty words. I’m sick of saying no, and then when you ask the English teacher and they don’t know what it means, I really don’t wanna translate it… Please… That was embarrassing… (Wish you could have guessed when you heard the word “suck” in the sentence…)

Anyway, we’re going to continue here… My birthday dinner! I had 4 friends over as well as some lovely Rotarians and a lot of family! We ate, acted funny, danced to this Chinese song that is sooooooo funny (look it up Gangdomstop—I think. Just yeah… Don’t hold me to my word on spelling.) And, my cake had a BUTTERFLY on it. I felt like a little girl again! This had to be one of the first times here I felt ALMOST completely myself—which I never feel in the states either, except when I’m with friends. That tells me how perfect I am with this family and these friends! In the middle of it, I almost got the urge to cry, because of how good I felt about being here. It was a good tear, but it never shed. I just felt so good! Life right now could not be happier. Feliz cumpleaños to me! The pure happiness was the perfect gift!

El día de los muertos! Well, on Thursday, I went to my first Catholic mass. It consisted of a lot of standing, and sitting, and respectfully waiting as people prayed. I went with my mom and two sisters to show respect for my father’s cousin who died a year ago. However, the mass was more for everyone who had died more than just him. After, I went to the cemetery to show my respect for him. They cleaned up his grave, and put flowers on it, and lit candles. They played music and many people cried. It was a time of mourning for his death. My mom and I left half an hour earlier to go get the car from the store, and went home. This is when I had my second taste of a traditional drink that they make around this time of year: colada morada. It is really yummy! If ANYONE has the chance to taste it, please do! On Saturday, we did not do the traditional thing, however, we did go to the beach! It was really fun, because there were just over 20 of my family members running around the beach! (Once again, sorry Bahía, I wanted to come see you!) We drank more colada morada, and had lunch there. Then, we drove back to Chone, where we packed 11 people in a car made for 7. We had already fit 14 in the same car, so this wasn’t too bad. We ate dinner, which consisted of tea or coffee, and various types of bread. I also ate a banana—so strange, I am! (Hey look, Yoda!) I was so tired, that I did not go to respect more of my father’s family, and I went to sleep. Today is Saturday, and my family is somewhere, but I have no idea where! I slept through it my sister waking up and getting ready, I guess… And everyone is gone, just me, my aunt, and my grandma, and the maids are here. I bet someone is working, and the others are out doing something with the family. I feel bad that I didn’t get to go with them, but I am so glad I was able to sleep. I feel as though this entire week I haven’t slept very good—including last night (people running in and out of my room at all hours, screaming all of last night), but at least I slept!

A few cousins, who I’m not quite sure how they are my cousins—the family tree here is bigger than the one I have back home (which is quite hard to say, seeing as my mom has 4 siblings and my dad has 2, as well as the fact that both my grandparents were married twice)—were shocked when I said how old I am. I just turned 17, and yet again, they are shocked! If I had said 18, or 19, would they still have been shocked? Well, people here believe me to be around 22 or 23, so I guess the answer would be yes. Back in the states, people would guess around 18 or 19 (when I was 15 and 16), so, we were only talking 3 years. Here, we are talking a 6 year difference! I mean, I guess it’s okay, but I just wish someone who didn’t already know my age could guess it correctly. Everyone here looks a little younger than people in the states. It’s kind of shocking, seeing as the Latin American culture is so girly, and so macho, and dressed up and such. I’m not quite sure how that works out…

How’s my Spanish coming, you may ask. Well, I have to say, my Spanish is pretty good. I can understand people when they talk normally, but still sometimes have to ask people to repeat themselves or slow down at times. My problem is technical words—still. I have to ask for detailed explanations of words that I don’t understand, and have to ask what some words are two or three times before remembering what they are. However, my Spanish is coming along great. I have noticed that I use things that I never used before—present perfect (which is used a lot more than one would think), subjunctive (I touched on it before coming, but never USED it much), conditional (again, only looked at it), and the killer thing that EVERYONE has issues with: por and para. These two words translate to one word in English: for. I still mix up the usages, which, of course, is expected, since I was not ever taught how to use them, but I feel as though I get a grasp on the other things I looked at and touched on before coming, and this still feels like a foreign language. I might just have to crack down and just memorize the usages and practice them with someone here for some help. (By this, I mean memorize the usages, then ask for help with using them. I would say something with the words por and/or para and they would tell me if I was right or wrong.)

The food here is so good. I feel like I’m becoming a real exchange student. Why you may ask? Because I don’t want to stop eating when I’m full, and so, I do, but I crave more food! I’m keeping in mind a saying that was said before I came: “So long as you can see your toes, you’re okay.” I can still see my toes… I haven’t weighed myself since I’ve gotten here, but am scared to. I’m guessing I’ve gained around 6 or 7lbs. I just hope my body doesn’t decide to gain more! People are already talking about my pancito (the little pouch your tummy has)! The other exchange student in Chone and I were talking about that: it is not impolite here to talk about other people’s imperfections, or give them advice on how to fix them, even if you have them yourself!  That will be a cultural difference for me, because I’m already used to people telling me I’m a gordita.

This morning, there was an opossum outside the house. It scared me, and everyone told me it was a fox. No, that is not a fox. I was the calmest, but still made a wide birth around it when I walked out to the car… Because it was alive.  Yup. Alive. Scared to death? Only everyone but me and my dad…

The Dream... Kinda

So, it almost happened... I almost had the dream... I woke up at 4:30, to the sound of a knock at my door, but was still half in dreamland... I saw my mother and sister walking in the street, and heard them talking in Spanish, just like normal... I was thinking in English, but at the same time, I was talking in both languages... Of course, I can't remember anymore than that, but it made me so excited.

This is the dream of each exchange student. To dream in the language... I can only wait to wake to a dream completely in Spanish :)

La Isla de la Plata

So, yes, that's right, I've been to the little Galapagos! It had to be the best thing in the world! It was so beautiful, and so new, and so amazing! Even when walking uphill for 4km or so...in flipflops...and getting a 1st degree ankle sprain in BOTH ankles (thank's Stevenson for making me diagnose my own injury), I loved it. For the first time in my entire life, I really understood why my mom loves the ocean, and traveling. Of the 4 exchange students, 10 or so adults, and 10 year old girl, they asked me if I wanted to go on top of the boat. What did I say?? YES! That was amazing! I held on for my life, got scared to death by waves, closed my eyes from pure delight! This will definitely not be the last time that happens for me. My heart was racing... I loved it...

But of course, after waking at 4:30 and getting home at around 9:30, I couldn't make it to school the next day. And today, I was ill when I woke up. My stomach has been funky every once in awhile, but only ILL twice. Not gonna lie, hated the reason, but loved the fact I didn't have to sit through dying in school today.

One thing I've found here that kills me is that every time I log on to facebook, I have around 30 friend requests--I don't really have all day to see who you are, so make sure you know me! Hahahah, if only you could teach that concept to Ecuadorians!

So, something we have learned here is that if you are fat, people will say it. Last night, my sister-in-law (another one), her mom, and my sister, and the twins (who turn 1 on Thursday!) were all spending time together. They were talking about how there was a beauty pageant that I went to (not competed in...), and how one of the girls was a little chubby, and how the faces were, and such. They then started comparing my body to that of some of the girls. The grandmother said my body could be perfect if I lost my belly pouch, and my waist line was smaller. I was like, thanks, I kinda like my body... But, then again, I'm sure I've gained around 5lbs since getting here, so I understand where she is coming from. But the food is just so good! We all were talking, and even when we are full, we don't want to stop eating, because the taste is just so rich, and so fresh, and so good!

If there is one thing I don't miss: Me. I have changed so much in the mere 6 and a half weeks I've been here... I've become much more relaxed about things I can't change. If we are going to change the world, we first have to accept how it is, and accept it with open arms.

I really feel part of my family here. I call my parents mamá and papá, and my sisters are my sisters. I feel really close to my sister-in-law, and we sometimes go walking around town looking at stuff together. The dire question answered: Yes, I do miss my life back in the states. Yes, I would like to be there right now. No, I will not come "home," because here I am--I am home...

Manta! And other stuff of importance

So, lovely ladies and gentlemen! We have done it! The world will never be the same! There are 7 chiropractors in Ecuador. The closest one is 2 hours away in Manta. My back doesn't hurt for the first time since I got on the plane! It's the best feeling in the world! The trip back put about 3 things back out, but I don't hurt! The guy was a little crazy, but hey, everyone has to be to live in this world. I was kinda taken by surprise when he talked to me in English. Anyway, he did acupuncture, then put the equivalent to biofreeze (which is, like, a million dollars here) on my back, and finally adjusted it. It was so funny because he just kept asking me what I liked done when I get adjusted. I was glad that he took it into consideration that I knew my body better than him.

Now, I must give you fair warning to not read this. However, for future female exchange students, the only bra cup size they have here is B. If you are a B, lucky you. Ecuador is the perfect place! However, if you are not, like me, do yourself a huge favor and buy about 50 bras before you come. Living on 3 has been a pain for me because of how much I sweat due to the heat. It kinda makes me wanna tear up, but I won't. I'm a strong little exchange student.

When they said, "you will gain weight on exchange," they are right! I weighed myself yesterday, and I'm still around the same weight: 140, but I feel fatter in my stomach area. I'm not sure if it's because my clothes are shrinking in the sun, or just because the food is so good here.

Everything here is so cheap! Except for the one thing I am supposed to provide for myself: clothing. Literally, it's nearly double here. I could die for how much I love the clothing, but how little I want to spend for a shirt! In Quito, it's worse, so I guess I could be thankful for that. I usually just steal my sisters clothing when I want to switch it up, or if something is dirty. Thanks Melissa for having one article of clothing for every day of the year!

So, my sister told me to put on this beautiful blue dress that was from a really long time ago (well, not really, but it looks like it). I put it on, because I love the dresses like that, and we went to this place where they were electing "la reina del calle"--the princess of the street. I was entered, and came in either 2nd or 3rd, and poor Melissa who just wanted to go to support a friend was elected la reina!

We finally have working air conditioning in my classroom! When it started blowing, I nearly died of pleasure to not have to go OUTSIDE to COOL DOWN anymore! It makes the killer hot skirts more bearable. Sure, it's not the lovely refreshing feeling of the States air conditioning in the classroom, but boy does it feel good!

I went to RYLA here. For those of you who don't know what that is, it is Rotary Youth Leadership A(word I don't know). Basically, it takes youth (here in Ecuador, it is youth between ages 14 and 30) leaders and puts them all in the same place for a few days and teaches them to be good leaders. So, my back was hurting way too much, so I didn't have the best time, and I didn't sleep much at all, because we were up at 7 and let out at around 12 or 1 each night. I also didn't sleep well on the busses we took. I was on a bus from Chone to Guayaquil, then in the bus station, then from there to Salinas--to a Naval Base. This particular place taught me something: why the armed forces eat so fast. THE FOOD IS HORRIBLE. They had the normal type of food, but it tasted like it was under cooked, or leftovers from last month. I can't even begin to describe the longing for real food I had.

FOR YOU OTHER EXCHANGE STUDENTS READING THIS: Yes, I know there was a paper that said we couldn't go. My mom asked, and the answer was yes we can. The  paper was wrong!

I love my family so much, and am so glad I came on exchange. I've had my rough patches, and my awkward moments, but so far, my 5 weeks and 2 days here have been more than I could ask for.

Two blog posts awkwardly in one? Yes!

Either I’m the worst student in the world, or I’m starting in the middle of the year… Let’s go with the latter. Today was my first day of classes, uniform and all. My brain hurts, number one, because of this quiz over technical drawings, number two, because of how fast this one teacher talks. After about 40 minutes of trying to keep up with his notes, I just plain gave up. I’ll buy the book tomorrow. The air conditioning in the school is practically non-existent. It does not work well. Picture this: I went outside to cool down. In Ecuador. Yup, that’s right. It’s hotter inside with air conditioning. I nearly died! My brain hurts enough as it is. Thursday afternoon, we are going to Quito, and coming back Sunday morning. Monday morning, Janek and I are going to orientation, and coming back sometime Thursday—I have no idea when. So, no school for a week! With being a “bad student” already, this should be the perfect thing to secure the reputation, right? Who knows. All I know is that my head hurts, and I am ready to sleep a million years.

On the bright side, I go to sleep thinking in Spanish! (The down side is the whole…wake up in English thing that’s still happening…)

I’ve been spending time with my counselor’s family, and may be moving here. It’s really nice, because they actually spend time together as a family. And her daughter is 15, and we get along really well. Oh, and they have air conditioning in more than one room! (Including the one I would share with Melissa—the daughter—if I moved here.) I’m still not sure what will happen. When I do, I’ll keep everyone posted!

I went to a pool and then  a river. We caught lobster in the river. It kinda creeped me out, especially when I figured out that it was for dinner. But, it’s okay. I understand. People eat things they catch in rivers.

I have to put bug repellent on 2-3 times a day. Even then, I have 7 bug bites right now—all of which were from mosquitos over the course of about an hour. Me pican! MUCHO!!! Do not come to Ecuador being sweet. Be mean; maybe the mosquitos will leave you alone? I just can’t wait for the Amazon! (Hear the half sarcasm there? Yeah, that’s because I don’t want any more picos de mosquo!) I’m going to need to coat myself in a layer of mosquito killer! I’m just too nice! Hahahah! Save me…please!!

A word for future exchange students:  learn to tie a tie before you come, especially if you’re going to a South American country. Who knows, maybe your uniform will have one like mine! Oh, and DO NOT DRINK THE WATER! And, do your best to improve your language as best you can. I can’t say how much it has helped me to know the language here. I still have a way to go, as all exchange students do after only 11 days in the country, but I’m glad that I learned as much as I did before I came!

So, I just went up to Quito, and we spent some Thursday night, Friday, and Saturday morning there. I got to be cold for the first time since I got here without blasting the air conditioning!!!!! Sometimes, there are things that you don’t think about until they aren’t there. We went to El Mitad del Mundo, and it was fun. I got a picture of a tarantula on my hand. It was cool. Outside, we were taking pictures on stuff, and I got caught in a tunnel, so I had to use the slide to get down head first. I cut my hand, which really scared my family. It was kinda normal for me to cut myself when I slide across rocky dirt. After that, we spent some time with my nephews, which were so cute. I’m just glad I wasn’t the only one who couldn’t understand them:  “sadfai faf asdjfas;djf LUNES. ;aljdfauf CUMPLEAÑOS a;sdfkjalfd FAMILIA.” Apparently that’s what everyone heard, so my Spanish can’t be that bad… The next day, we went to a volcano, which was pretty cool. We rode this thing that took us to the top, and took pictures, then came back down. I didn’t get to actually see the volcano part, which was kinda sad. On the bright side, I got to see most of Quito in one place!

We also had Orientation! I woke up at 5:30 and got to Portoviejo at 7. After that, we got on the bus around 8 and had a 4 hour drive to the most gorgeous hotel in the history of tourist attractions. We had a pretest on Monday, then classes Tuesday and Wednesday, then a test Wednesday. All of Thursday morning was OURS to do with what we pleased. Anyway, classes were boring. The fun part was the shows when this kid from Brazil kicked some serious…ummm…rear… Yeah, we had a fun time. One night, oh gosh, I have a feeling I’m going to regret blogging about this, but, one night, we had this completion for King and Queen of the camp. I was the only person who didn’t care, so I was nominated. I was with this kid who was from Brazil who kicked…rear…  He basically told me to do some funny dance thing, which I find dirty as heck, so I didn’t wanna, but I did. I fell flat on my butt. I. Don’t. Dance. For. A. Reason. ESPECIALLY DIRTY!!! I wanted to go back to the room and hide under my blankets, but instead, I went to this party with the rest of them, and it was fun. It helped me get my mind off my utter embarrassment. So, yeah. I burned as well. I don’t burn, right? Well, I thought I didn’t, but I did, because I fell asleep in the sun. So, now I have this awkward burn line on my chest where my bathing suit was, and my legs are bright red. My belly has evened out to a nice pinkish brown, thankfully.

On the ride back from Orientation, I kinda was hurt emotionally. Someone started to make fun of people who cut by calling them emo. After losing my cousin, having a friend who nearly killed herself and cut the heck out of her arm, and so many other things, I felt so hurt. I’m not sure how long I yelled at him, but I just really cannot stand it when people make fun of people who deal with a lot in life. I really wanted to cry, because that is just the one border that you cannot cross with me. Some things, I will say, “hey, can you not say that? I just don’t like it.” This however, is something that made me want to shout out to the world how horrible someone is for making fun of. For the rest of the bus ride, we talked, and he didn’t cross the line again, but I kept stroking my Armed With Love bracelet. (Woo! It’s gone worldwide ladies and gents!)

On Sunday, I officially changed families, because some interesting reasons. My sister was denied her visa, and I just didn’t feel right there.  My new family has a mom, dad, 15 year old sister, wolf-dog who needs more exercise, aunt, and sister who talks way too fast, living with us. I share the room with Melissa, my 15 year old sister, and we get along just like I feel as though two sisters would. I love her clothing—just for the record. We don’t have internet in the house—only at the store, so I will not be on very often, and my blog posts may be long, and may be short, depending on how much time I have. I still don’t have a phone, but if I get a blackberry (Ecuador is to blackberry as USA is to iPhone), I may be on facebook a little more. Don’t count on it though, because for just a year, I’m not sure it would be worth it.

I went to a soccer game. There was a guy with a machete. It scared me, but everyone else was calm. When he jumped the fence and started running at the winning team (the one he was NOT rooting for), I wanted to high tail it out of there. Everyone just watched and laughed.

So, I got food poisoning. Everyone was convinced it was dengue fever. I was convinced it was something I ate, and now I'm doing great. All is well with food once more!

Cultural Week!

Today (Tuesday) was a day where we “ran” 10km. A lot of people took busses or paid taxis, but Auxi and I walked the entire way. In the heat. With the dust. And the hot clothing. But it was fun! We talked a lot, and when I got back, they gave me a trophy for being from the US. They also gave one to Janek because he is from Germany. Apparently we are now between the ages of 40 and 49…but that’s okay; it’s the thought that counts. I’m enjoying the school so far. Everyone seems kind, and most want to talk to me, and there are some great people who have really stopped to make sure I understand. (Shout out to Payton and Titta for wanting to go to Amazonas last year—so far, it’s been great!)

Today, Wednesday, I went to school, and basically talked and got asked a million questions. When I made a face at the words “Justin Beiber” everyone clapped for me. I’m glad that others understand it as well. After school, I was home alone, as usual, because I get out earlier than my siblings this week. I cried, because I missed the feeling of home. I was reminded of how I felt after we left Michigan. I missed my life, and the way I finally fit in somewhere. Here, I know everything is amazing, but, it’s all so new, and overwhelming. Leaving something you know and have grown to love for a year is one of the hardest things someone can do! I never really thought about how I would do if I did not let my emotions flow when they need to. I’m going to have to make a point to let myself cry when I need to! Yesterday, I got this cute thing done to my nails. I have pink on them with black mustaches! SO CUTE! (Emily Tsai, if you’re reading this, I thought of you the entire time they were being painted!!!)

Yesterday was a busy day! I found out at the Rotary Meeting on Wednesday night that I was going to Manta to register with the Ecuadorian Government. I learned how to sit in a car for many hours with two full grown women—very slender though—in a fairly small car. If I sat up straight, I hit my head every time we went over a bump. Lucky Janek...he got the front seat. Then, after we got back, I had a few minutes to think, and talk to my host sisters. I really enjoy talking to them; they may be a little younger than me-Nohelia not so much, but still younger-but I really learn a lot. I was told my Noemi that my Spanish is already getting better, and I can understand at a faster rate! After that, I went to the chiropractor, which isn’t really a chiropractor at all. It’s more of a physical therapy place, and I need a chiropractor!!! After the “chiropractor,” my counselor, her daughter and I went to eat and such. I ran into Kelly who invited me to a party thrown by the college. I talked to my counselor, and my mom, and they were both okay with it, so I went. Apparently there is a man who is running for a government position, and he is putting on a bunch of concerts for college age students to get their vote. Unfortunately for him, everyone got bored after about 15 minutes, so we left. This is when we went to this place (I forget the translation…) and I was the only one completely sober. (Hear that Charlie? I'm being the good little exchange student!) Apparently I can dance. I am shy, see? I don’t like to dance much. It’s like some people and singing in the shower. I dance alone, when nobody can watch, and nobody can judge. That’s one of the things I want to work on: coming out of my shell. I went home earlier than everyone else—2am. Then, I talked to Kelly about some exchange stuff, because it was weighing on my mind, and who would understand more than someone who has been through it? I got very little sleep last night (thanks to our friend the rooster), and am just about to head off to school. Chao! *kiss on cheek* (You know what’s strange? They always seem to go right cheek… Oh, and my Mexican ears can’t last long with how many double takes I have taken in the past week.)

Later Friday… I’m tired… I am going to spend some time this weekend with my counselor and her family. They’re nice people, always wanting me to do my best here in Chone. There is no school Monday—I guess because the teachers are having a party tomorrow where they drink, and they don’t want to teach? I’m unsure. I don’t believe this to be the reason, but that's what a student said. I learned how to tie a tie today. The party last night was fun, but my body is still vibrating from the music last night. It’s not used to loud noises. I guess the little bit of music some guys played today was not much help either! What else is not help is people playing horrible pranks on you in the middle of the night (you know who you are) and telling you that the police check for visas and such. It was when we were at that one place that I still can’t really figure out a word for, with the music. The police shut it down, because in Chone, on weekdays they can only run until midnight, and it was one. Sometimes, scaring someone to death is just not worth it… I find that just sad, but I forgave him. Today was fun, and I look forward to having more fun days and starting school Tuesday!

First Day of School

My first day of school... How can I put it? Well, this week we are celebrating the school's 45th birthday. There are different festivities all week, and I have to wear clothing to walk in tomorrow. I believe we are doing a parade around Chone. That's pretty exciting.

Everything feels dirty here. The heat, the dust, the difference. I love it, but I just only feel clean when I'm drenched in water. And even then, I know it's not entirely true. I brush my teeth with the water, wash veggies with it, but never drink it, and always rinse the veggies off with clean water after being washed.

I'm hot. We sleep with a sheet on top of us, and I have a fan blowing around me. I believe I have been comfortable once. I was in the ocean... The ocean... It's so beautiful here! The clear water, the sun shining on everything. I love it!

Last night, I got THREE bug bites! All on my right leg! My sister told me to put alcohol (the stuff for cuts and such) on them, and the redness has gone down on one of them. I also killed a mosquito in the principles office today. I REFUSE to get malaria! (Don't worry mother, I won't. I promise!)

The food here is some of the best I've ever tasted! We eat this soup stuff called crema. It's basically like vegetables mashed up. You would think it would be gross, but it's not! It's like a taste of home without the chewing! Even the meat tastes better. Yesterday, I had lasagna con carne, and though the texture of the carne wasn't my favorite, it was really good! The way they prepare it is so natural tasting, but at the same time, masks the taste of it--for the most part.

So, I haven't really done any chores since I came here. I have made my bed on the days that the maid doesn't come. And put some left overs in the refrigerator, but really, all I do is talk to my sister. I really really enjoy talking to her. She is a sweetie, and always stops to explain things when I don't understand.

I believe my host sister was just denied her visa... The sadness I feel is one of the worst things I have felt since I got here. I'm not sure what happened, or why, but when they get home from Guayaquil, I'm going to ask. They did everything they needed. I even helped her with some English!

Some of my sisters friends should be arriving soon. I look forward to meeting them!

It's Begun!

My long journey ahead has officially begun. I have gone through security in the Portland Airport, and will be getting on the plane shortly. Sitting at the gate has not done anything to make this seem more real. This could be because I'm in shock, or it could also be that in the past 43 hours, I have only slept 8 hours!!!

At the gate, I here two languages: English and Spanish. I am assuming most people are going to Mexico City. It's a very fun gate to be at...especially for such an early time!! I see no other Rotary Blazers or shirts, but at least by Dallas/Ft. Worth, I should be among a group of at least 3, but probably more like 5 to 8. By Maimi, there should be around 10 of us headed out to Guayaquil.

Well, I never got to finish, like I thought I would. My first layover went well. I met up with a girl from Alaska, Holly, a boy from Canada, Derek, and a girl from Japan—I still have no idea how to say or spell her name. We got on the plane, and, guess what. We were all separated, AND we had to wait an hour for mechanical stuff while SEATED!!! Then, we had another couple of hours to kill. I was sitting next to a Rotarian, and a woman. She taught me how to knit! That was fun!

The second layover was only an hour, not two, because we were late! I met up with 3 more exchange students there, and we all stuck together. We all had our “pairs” to say, but only because we made those pairs. The plane was virtually empty. I sat next to Derek, and got asked a few philosophical questions. It was good to stay awake with someone to talk to!

After we got out of the plane, all went well. We stuck together through immigration, baggage claim, and customs. After that, we took a few pictures, and met our families.

The drive back was horrible! I have learned that I have a new distaste for speed   bumps. For what I could tell, there was a speed bump in the middle of the freeway! And, there were craters in the road designed to slow us down. All I can say is I feel bad for the cars. I slept a little, and when we got home, it was nearly four! We went to bed on the spot, and I woke up at 10. Right now, my mom is at work, and the others at school.

A few things I have noticed that do not seem like things I’m used to: dogs do not have homes, and are left to wander the streets; speed bumps are not always speed bumps, rather mixed with some craters taken out of the earth; wearing your seatbelt in the back seat is not necessary; I’m pretty sure the woman here with us is the house cleaner; I do not have any desire to have more than a single sheet over me to sleep, and no desire for a hot shower; they do not flush their toilet paper.

I start school on Monday, and am excited, but very nervous! I’m not sure what to expect.  I guess that’s how everything is going to be soon, especially because I cannot understand Spanish very well. They all talk so fast! One day, I hope to be the one talking too fast, and understanding it all. Until then, I guess I have a lot of leaning to do!

17 Days!!

Today, I got in touch with my second host family!! I have a host sister who will be in Nebraska for her exchange. I will have a mom (48), dad (50), brother (16), and grandma (75), and a dog living in the house! They have family in Portviejo, Quito, and Esmeraldas. They go visit sometimes too!!

I got my tickets and visa in the mail, so it's now official that I will be leaving from the Portland Airport at 6am and arriving in Guayaquil Airport at 10:05pm on the 23rd of THIS MONTH!!!! I really can't wait!!

Everyone who went on exchange in Ecuador (or pretty much any South American country) said to not drink the water! I went to LA area to visit my sister, and have been craving Medford water. LA water just plain tastes BAD! I'm kinda worried that I am going to crave water like I did for those five days that I was there--except worse!!

I got my business cards, and they're cute!! I find them informational--giving information that someone would actually have for a few years--like an email address! I have been wanting to have them for awhile, but I'm so glad they came before I left; a few people left before getting them! I think 4 people have left already, and I know at least 2 of them absolutely did NOT get them.

My room is currently a cleaning disaster! I have been cleaning like crazy! By the time I leave, I want to have few belongings--things I will actually want when I come back. I am also packing my suitcase with things and weighing it. It's an interesting experience to say the least. I can only bring 1 suitcase with 50lbs of stuff in it. The empty suitcase is 10lbs. This should be fun!!

I felt more excited than nervous of late, and feel like things are going pretty well. I am so glad I have everyone in Rotary around to help. I can say that without them, I would be having  pretty normal summer! I'm so glad it's not!

Before I Go!

Hola! I'm beginning a blog to understand my experiences as I journey to Ecuador! I'm from Oregon, and am very excited to leave! My departure date is August 23rd, at 6 AM from the Portland airport and I arrive in Guayaquil at 10:05 PM. This is my first time out of country, and I'm constantly finding myself crying from fear, staring off into space with nerves, and screaming in excitement! Currently, I know my visa and passport are in the mail to me, and I should be expecting that by the 30th (hopefully). So far, FedEx has only initiated it, though they said the ship date was supposed to be the 26th. Oh well, I know that being patient will help me here!

So far in my life, I have been a vegetarian, and have picked up eating some meat to make the exchange go smoother. I completely dislike it, but have been able to eat meats thus far, but only if it's served. Pretty much,  if I'm the one making the food, there isn't going to be much meat on the table!

I have two lovely dogs, and my mom lives at home with me. My dad is always on the road, because he is an over the road truck driver. I was raised an only child, even though I have a half brother and half sister. They lived with their mother, while I lived with mine. My first host family should be very different for me, because I will have a mom, Magaly, and two younger siblings. Nohelia, the oldest (16), is going on exchange while I'm there. I will be living with Noemi (14), and Juan (9). I'm very excited to have siblings living with me! I will also get to experience having birds around! I've had dogs since I was born!

In Oregon, I would be going into my junior year, but instead am spending it in Chone-Manabi. There, I will be what is equivalent to a senior year. Sadly, none of the credits transfer, but nonetheless, I am able to graduate in 2014 with the rest of my class!

Recently, I came across a quote, "If your dreams don't scare you, they aren't big enough." In all honesty's, I am very scared, but know this year will be amazing, and cannot wait to begin it after these 9 months of preparing. The countdown is on! 26 days!