Pretty much sums up this past weekend!
Saturday, the school Maeve and I are at had a celebration for its anniversary! The event started with the national anthem of Peru and the school song, which I'm sure we will learn soon enough. The students received academic awards (from el concurso during the week) and also performed dances! Below are some of the secondary school students after doing their traditional Peruvian dance from "la selva" or "the jungle." We really enjoyed seeing our students in this light and it was amazing to see them show their love for their country through dance.
*You can check out more photos from the anniversary celebration in the gallery!
After this 3 hour event, Maeve and I went shopping for halloween costumes because here in Peru they also celebrate it! In the end, we just bought some cat and bunny ears and called it good (not quite living up to my Cilantro costume as part of the "Spice Girls" from years past *Shoutout to Meghan & Kristin, but it did the job!) Our host dad's daughter was invited to her work friend's halloween salsa and invited Maeve and I along! We were able to dress up in those costumes and put our salsa techniques to the test! We also got to practice our Spanish while learning how to dance, so it was definitely a win-win! Shoutout to the Kerscher House as ya'll should be proud of me because I didn't just dance with my shoulders. Hahaha.
After all that dancing, Maeve and I relaxed on Sunday. However, I was able to go on a run through the parks near the house I am staying at. Even though Lima is a city, they have parks with trails between all the streets. The trees are beautiful and I was able to run outside, so you could say I enjoyed myself. Also, in the district I am staying it there is a lot of security, so I felt so safe while having some "me" time as well! It was perfect. Shoutout to Amy and Mel who encouraged me to run over the summer - who knew I would end up loving it?
Also, for those of you who know me well, THEY HAVE FREE BIKES A BLOCK FROM MY HOUSE AND I AM PUMPED. Stay tuned for pictures and stories of Lauren's biking adventures.
After lunch and talking with our host family, Maeve and I went to the beach in Lima. We took an Uber there and while driving along the shore line I actually cried. It was beautiful. The pictures do not do it justice but here are a couple:
Panorama of the beach from the cliff
The sun was shining all day, but then when we arrived at the beach it got foggy - go figure. Still, it was gorgeous.
Maeve and I walked like 5 miles along the cliffs and saw so many beautiful views. We definitely have plans to return here all the time throughout the next 8 weeks!
After all our walking, and our legs getting sore, we returned to Larcomar which is the mall that overlooks the ocean. We stopped for some coffee, tried some deserts, and walked around some more. Confession time.. I did buy another pair of shoes. BUT - these were only $10 AND they are perfect for wearing in the water. Since the beaches are actually full of rocks, I wanted some shoes to wear when we swim...I know, excuses. Sorry Caytie Joe.
When we got back, we had dinner with the family and played with our 4 year old host brother. Let me tell you - he is FULL of energy. If I've been worried about getting my steps everyday, I shouldn't have to worry with him around! He loves to play and gets the biggest kick out of anything he can use as a toy, which is great!
Thanks to everyone who reads these - I really enjoy sharing stories! :)
Ta Ta for Now,
Lauren