Update from Nikki:
Our first full day in Ecuador was one packed with activity and excitement! We were served a very filling breakfast to start our day. Our first stop was a trip to the equator in Cayambe, where the mountains serve as a natural reference point. It has been discovered that the ancient Incas found the accurate location of the equator by observing the patterns of the sun long ago- way before we were able to with GPS!
Next, we visited a local shop with handcrafted ceramics, most of which represented Ecuadorian culture. We conversed (the best we could!) with the shop owner and a woman from the church, Irma, who was giving us a ride. It is these seemingly insignificant moments in which relationships are formed. Irma even called one of our young male team members a "bandito de corazon" (bandit of the heart), which basically means a "ladies man."
Quitsato and the ceramics shop are local businesses that David likes to support. We were happy to be able to share in that, and of course to have a piece of Cayambe to take home.
At this time of year, the Ecuadorians are having many festivals celebrating the sun and St. Peter, both which are objects of worship. Our next stop was to the streets of Cayambe to see the parade. We were transfixed on the costumes, dancing, and music displaying the culture of Ecuador.
From there, we went to the Meyer's church-plant, Iglesia Biblica Buen Pastor for youth group. We began the evening with a softball game, then moved to the church for worship. Afterwards, we got to know the youth a little better through introductions and sharing about ourselves. Our efforts to speak in Spanish, and the youth's efforts to speak in English were very entertaining. After youth group "ended," we stuck around for about an hour and a half spending time together with our new friends. I was so impressed with our teen team members and their courage in pursuing conversation and friendship with the Cayambe youth. It was amazing to see the American and Ecuadorian teens laughing and enjoying each other's company all throughout the night. Apparently, you do not need to speak the same language in order to share a bag of Doritos or play a game of "Ninja!" When it was announced it was time to go, everyone was disappointed to part ways.
It was a very packed, but very fulfilling day. Thank you for keeping us in your prayers, and enjoy the pictures below!
The hotel staff served bizcochos (like biscotti), queso de hoja ("leaf cheese", similar to mozzarella), eggs and ham, coffee, and blackberry smoothies.
The group poses on the equator, at "Quitsato," which means "middle of the earth." This site is basically a giant sundial.
We got a great informational presentation on Quitsato, from an Ecuadorian who took English classes with Dave.
Battles at the equator.
In celebration of the summer solstice, Ecuadorians have exuberant parades, with culturally rooted costumes and dances.
We had the pleasure of eating lunch at the Meyers' home during the weekend.
Sheep and dogs wander near a guard shack near the Meyers' home.
Our first youth group experience with Iglesia Biblica Buen Pastor was a softball game - Ecuadorians vs. Americans!
Later that evening, we gathered for a formal introductions, a lesson, worship, and hanging out.
Yes! Love the pictures and thanks Nikki for the good write-up.
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