Lake Titicaca

In the middle of January, I had the opportunity to finally visit one of the most famous sights in Peru - Lake Titicaca.   I had been waiting anxiously to go on this trip for a number of reasons.  I have been selling vacations to Peru, which almost always include the beautiful Lake Titicaca, yet I had never even seen it myself!  Also, last August, I was lucky enough to have won 2 free nights at the 5*Libertador hotel located on a peninsula stretching out into the lake.  I had made our reservations and bought the plane tickets for Julio and I back in October, so I was excited the day was finally here! 
Lake Titicaca is considered the highest navigable lake in the world at over 12,500 ft..  It is a massive body of water boarding both Peru and Bolivia.  The Lake is over 100km in width and 60km across.  The habitat around the lake is very unique as well.  You can see the views of the beauitful mountains all around the lake, but it is also located at the dividing point were the vegetation really changes from a mountainous region into the Amazon rainforest.  If someone had the time, I think it would be an amazing trip to trek around the lake and visit the local communities and historical sights. 

Our journey began early on Friday morning to catch our flight to Juliaca.  (city 40 minutes from the lake)  We had a bit of a delay getting to our destination which caused a long layover in Arequipa, but finally we did arrive to Juliaca about 3 hours later than expected.  We had no real plans in place for this first day, so all was well and good =).  We took a combi from the airport along with a couple other travelers and headed on our way to Puno. (Lake Titicaca)  Every time I travel outside of Lima, I am still surprised at what I see.  Even though I know that the rest of the country lives in much different conditions than I do in Lima; it is like you forget how different it really is when you don't see it everyday.  I guess that explains how a small 15% or 20% of the population in Lima's modern districts can live completely modern, almost luxury lifestyles while the majority of the people in the country live with hardly anything.  I will save some of these comparisons of economic class for another post.  Back to the trip, the ride through the Andes was absolutely beautiful as we made our way up and down the curvy roads until we reached our destination.  It was wide open countryside, green, animals, farm houses, I guess you could say it kind of made me feel like I was back home! 

We finally reached Puno and were dropped off at our hotel, just outside the city limits.  We quick checked in and explored our hotel.  We had an amazing room with a perfect view out to Lake Titicaca, along with all the perks of staying in a 5* hotel.  Julio and I are pretty used to traveling on a budget and finding whatever cheap hostal we can, so this was definitely new to both of us!   I was anxious to get out and see the city, so we got a cab and headed back into the city center.  We were able to walk around and see some of the hisoric buildings on the main plaza, check out a couple of hotels, and grab a bite to eat at a market next to the lake.  The weather was good with fair temperatures and clear skies, which was lucky as normally January begins the rainy season.  So we took advantage of this by going out on the lake a little bit after renting a paddle boat.  After a couple races with some kids up and down the lagoon, we docked our paddle boat just before the rain began.   It was time to head back to the hotel and relax for the evening.  When traveling from sea level to such high elevation, it is important to allow yourself some down time to avoid getting altitude sickness, and we had already reached our limit.

We were woke up very early by the sunrise at about 4:30am, but I can't complain as it was probably the most beautiful sight I have ever seen. We had an amazing breakfeast buffet and then were picked up for our full day boat tour of Lake Titicaca. We met up with our tour group and got into our seats at the front of the boat, and off we went.  Our guide told us all about the history of the Lake and the development of different tribes that lived and still live in the area today.  If you are looking to learn about native cultures still living the way their ancestors did 100s of years before, this is a great place to visit.  Our first stop was at the Uros Islands where we got invited onto the island by the president of the native tribe.  These islands are very unique, as they are completely man made floating islands.  The islands used to be located out in the center of the lake, but have recentely been moved a little closer inland due to the profits they receive from allowing tourism.  The culture still lives in the native form that they did; however they are not completely seperated from society as they do need to occasionally come inland for goods and local events.   The islands, homes, and boats, are all constructed from the reeds and boyant soil in the lake.  The construction process, as you can imagine, is very time consuming and tidious work done with very few tools available to them.   The second stop on our trip was quite a trek out to a real island, Taquile Island, located in the middle of the Lake.  The people of this Island are completely self sufficient and live as a community working together to support each other.  They have pretty much everything they need on the Island, including stone homes/buildings, terraces for agriculture up the sides of the island, livestock living on the island, and a organization of government on their own.  Obviously the society has been touched by some modern advantages as well from tourism, but for the most part, they still live as an independent community.  The views from this island were amazing.  You can see across the lake in each direction and the shadows of the mountains in the distanct background.  After learning about their culture and enjoying a nice lunch, it was time to head out on our journey back to Puno.  It took about 2 1/2 hours to return to Puno, and I think everyone had a nice nap on the way back from the trip.

We returned to our hotel and enjoyed a relaxing evening with a nice small dinner at the restaurant, then relaxing in the hot tub.  I was surprised to learn that Julio had never been in a hot tub before.. haha.. I guess this is not something that really exists in Peru.  The only place you are likely to find this would be in a 5* hotel.  I definitely enjoyed the busy weekend, but I was exhausted and ready for bed.  The next morning we enjoyed a quiet morning with another amazing breakfast (this breakfast buffet was amazing!) and walking around a little to enjoy the grounds outside of the hotel.  It was then time to head out in route back to the airport so we could get our flight home.  The flight back home was without incident and we arrived back to Lima at about 2:30pm.   It had definitely been a quick weekend, but we enjoyed our time at Lake Titicaca.  The only sight we didn't have time to really visit that I was hoping to see were the Chulpas (Towers for funeral/burials).  They are historical burial tours located outside of Puno dating back to the pre-Incan culture.  I guess that gives me another reason to return again someday!!

6 Month Recap

I took a stance about 6 months ago that I didn't need to share my life with everyone through my blog.  I closed the book and kind of wanted to keep my life private.  I have always been a more private person - I like to tell stories of my adventures, but naturally leave out any real personal anecdotes.  I have never really needed/wanted a lot of support, encouragement, or advice from other people; thus I avoid situations where people will feel they need to give me those thing.  It is not to say that I do not care or don't truly enjoy the company of others, I just don't like to make everything about "me".  I would rather sit, enjoy hearing all about the trials and triumphs of all my friends and family, and offer my support and advice if asked for.  In regards to this blog, these feelings have put me in a bit of a hard spot.  I do want to share my experiences because I know it is important for my family and friends to feel in touch, I also do want to keep a record for myself of the experiences I have had, and I actually do enjoy the writing aspect of this.  I also do have a new reason for continuing the blogging - that will be touched on soon enough. =)



Lodge at Puemape



Rewind to my last blog:  It was the middle of winter here, and I was preparing for a get away with Julio and another couple, Andrea & Pato, whom we are friends with................. At the end of July, the four of us headed out on a 8 day trip to the North of Peru.  It was about a 10 hour journey or so, but we were traveling with our own vehicle so it wasn't too bad.  We were able to stop and enjoy different things along the way.  In general, the entire coast of Peru is dessert; however, it is still the most inhabited area of Peru because it is along the ocean.  Outside of Lima is much MUCH different than in Lima.  Basic infrastructure - meaning roads, water, electricity, sewage management, garbage disposal, etc... - exists, but it is hard to find and usually is in disaray.  We arrived to our destination, which was a famous surfing point called Puemape.  To my surprise, there was nothing here - literally some brick buildings half built/fallen apart, a couple of nice houses, a shack that was a surf shop, and our lodge - which was in an old train car.  Who knows how this train car was ever left along the dessert coast, but it was my "cabana" for the week.  Nonetheless, it was a quiet place to relax outside of the city - which was exactly what I wanted.  We went on several day trips from this point, including visits to Trujillo, local villages, a great oasis to hike to, and most importantly to Cajamarca.  Cajamarca is an amazing historical city tucked away in the Andes Mountains.  It was a little over 3 hours to get there, but we enjoyed amazing views along the way as we made our way up the curvy roads as we ascended into "heaven".  This is one of the few areas in Peru that still has a real forrest within the Andes.  The area was so lush and green, with full size trees everywhere, fresh air, and breathtaking scenery.  We visited a couple of the local sights and enjoyed the city's historical main square.  The city of Cajamarca is much like a smaller version of the ancient city of Cuzco - with so many historical buildings over 500 years old.  We found a little hostal to spend the night in and enjoyed our time in Cajamarca, which was obviously the highlight of the trip for me!

For the next couple of months, I pretty much just worked and continued with my regular routine.  Julio and I did get away one weekend to the South with some friends, but other than that I can't say we did a whole lot that was really noteworthy.  I was begining a short lived fitness regimen with my new 3 month gym membership and Julio was busy with the start of his next semester in school. 

Playing with Hud!

My next trip, the most important one of all, was finally almost here!  On September 29th, I boarded a midnight flight back to Minneapolis, MN.   It had been a LONG 8 months without seeing my family and friends.  My favorite little man in the world was even waiting to welcome me at the airport.  I was so glad to get to spend time with my nephew, Hudson, and even more excited that he remembered me so well!!  (probably in large part due to his Mom & Dad reminding him - thanks guys!)  I enjoyed a wonderful 2 1/2 weeks back home with my family.  The majority of my time was spent just at home enjoying my parents new house, babysitting Hudson, spending time with my Grandma, and of course getting the chance to check up with old friends.  I forgot how nice it is to speak ENGLISH with everyone I am around.  To have a conversation without my brain straining to understand and be understood was definitely the best part of the trip.  It was also just so wonderful to see everyone and catch up on old times.  To be honest, it really didn't even feel like I had been gone very long.  I think that is one of the best and the worst things about a small town - nothing really ever changes :-).   It was so easy to pick up right where I left off with everyone and hear about how everyone's summers had been and what was new in life.  I am very blessed and have the most amazing family and friends a girl could ask for.  After an exciting time back home, I guess you could say I was ready to return back to my schedule and mostly to see Julio.  Although it was probably a good break for each of us, I think we were both surprised how much you miss just having that person around.

During my trip back home, I had made some choices about changes I needed to make to my life in Lima.  I realized that so much of my time and energy was being focused on a job that was really just a job.  The main reason I moved to Peru was not so that I could work my life away making $1000 a month.  This was hardly enough money to justify working 40 hours a week and not having the freedom to travel when I wanted, go out and meet other people, have free time to just explore and learn about the culture, or to enroll in school to actually really start learning more Spanish.  Work was beginning to get slow, and that $1000 I was earning a month had turned into about $500.  It was time for some changes.  I shifted my priorities and talked with my boss about changing to a part time schedule.  Not only would I be able to still manage just as many accounts and make just as much money, but I would have free time and could finally enroll in a school.  I don't think anyone at my job was real happy with this decision, but it was the only thing that made sense to me and the only way I would have stayed at the job.  So I began having classes every morning from 9:00 - 11:00 am in a school close to my house in order to learn Spanish.  My work schedule was switched to 30 hours a week and I worked from 1:00pm - 7:00pm with just a small paycut.  (Almost all of my income comes from commission anyway, so the cut to monthly salaray was less than a $100 - totally worth it!)  From the first day of my class on October 31st, I knew I had made the best decision and could not believe I didn't make this change earlier.  Enrolling in school meant new challenges to work toward, meeting other people (expats) in the exact same situation as me, and gaining a whole new level of confidence in my Spanish speaking abilities.  I felt a new energy, happy and motivated!!




New Year's Eve on the beach



The following months of November and December were very enjoyable for me.  The climate had changed and the sun was back out!!  What a huge difference sun  makes in your life.  I can't even express the happiness I feel walking outside enjoying warm temperatures and the sun beating down on me.  Lima really is composed of two seasons - 6-7 months of gray skies with a cold wet dampness in the air, then 5-6 months of warm weather with plenty of sunshine!  My attitude had done a complete 180; I was loving my classes at La Catolica, enjoying the changing seasons, and feeling so motivated.  This bit of freedom from my job had really opened my eyes to how much I could accomplish myself.  A lot of ideas began flowing in out as to how I could make money without going to a job everyday that provides me with no new challenges or satisfaction.  The job was good in a sense that it taught me a lot about Peru, I love working with my clients, and it was a good starting point when I arrived to Peru.  However, why I am settling for a job that limits my abilities and earning potential when I could do so much more.  Although this may come across like a "white supremicist" statement, the fact is that it is true.  I simply have more resources and opportunties available to me than a normal Peruvian because of where I come from and the opportunties I have had available to me in my life.  That is not a popular or socially correct statement, but my eyes were being opened to the fact that I don't have to just settle for what I have now.

Christmas Eve - with Julio's mom, Adela.

I think my new found motivation and desire to take action to change my situation was a bit of a surprise to Julio.  It was probably the first time Julio had seen me not so dependent on him, and this was definitely a good thing.  I was starting to meet people on my own, could finally communicate on a social level in Spanish, and was working towards some career changes.  I have no doubt that these changes have brought Julio and I much closer and more in touch as a couple.  He has given me endless support and is working hard to help me move forward with future projects in my life.  During the past two months. Julio and I have also spent a lot more time together and talking about plans for the future.  We have been spending most of our weekends heading to the beaches in the South, traveling, or enjoying the holidays.  My Christmas was spent with Julio's family at his house on Christmas Eve.  It was just his parents, two sisters, brother, and me.  I am so thankful that his family has welcomed me and made me really feel like part of the family.  His mother always looks out for me and treats me just like I am one of her kids.  The communication hasn't always been easy, but it just goes to show that love and support does not necessarily need a lot of words. 

Finally, we arrive to the present.  Friday was my final day of work at the travel agency and yesterday was my one year anniversary in Peru, so I celebrated by doing absolutely nothing.  I have had the majority of this weekend to myself as Julio left yesterday morning for a one night camping trip with some of his high school buddies.  I actually feel relieved to just be in Lima with nothing on the agenda this weekend.  As I stated before, the last two months have been filled with plans for every weekend, so it is a nice change to just do nothing.  Apparently the SuperBowl is in a couple of hours, haha - who knew!, so my roommate and I will be getting back to our American roots by watching the SuperBowl with a six-pack of beer. 

Look for more updates soon as life continues to bring us surprises!

7-13-11

Us Today

Time sure flies when you are having fun!  I'm sure many of you are saying where did the summer go - is it really half over already??  In the  meantime, I am cheering yes - winter is half over!!  Maybe someday I will see the sun again?  At this point, that feels like a big maybe.  Lima becomes a very different place in the winter months.  I would say the city is just taken over by blah... nothing really has cooler, everything seems a little dirty, the trees are drooping, there is a constant haze type of mist in the air most days (it never really rains, but things are always wet), and it is just plain gloomy.  Come to think of it, it is kind of like you can't even notice color when the air is always heavy and you don't see the sun.  Even cars passing by kind of all look the same.  From what I am told, come September the sun will be back!!  Not in full force until maybe November, but I will be happy with any sun I can get.



First Picture together - still my favorite



          I can't say that too much has really changed even though my last blog was quite a while ago.  For the most part, everything is going steady and good.  The job selling vacations here in Peru is continuing at a somewhat steady pace so that is nice.  The political and economic situation here actually seems pretty stable.  Even though there was soooo much drama and bad publicity throughout the elections; now, things are actually looking somewhat positive for the future of Peru.  I am most surprised by the way people seemed to just really accept the results of the election.  For how much passion and fire these Peruvian people had leading up to the election, I was almost a tad bit disappointed there wasn't more havoc after the results came. in.  I guess it is good that there wasn't a stir of riots and in general the public either doesn't care and feels they can't do anything, or they feel they had their vote and the majority won - no hard feelings. BTW if I hadn't previously stated this, Humala, the far leftist, won the eleciton.

This is hard for me to admit, but, I believe it has been approximately 8 weeks since I have left the city of Lima, Peru.  I always wondered how people who lived in big cities could never leave the city; I kind of now feel like I understand.  This city is so huge that it feels nearly impossible to leave without a lot of planning and time.  I guess the most inhabilitating factor would be that I do not have a car, but there are many other reasons as well.  It is really probably not very safe for me to travel alone, I don't know anyone that lives outside of the city, most destinations of interest are at least 3 hours away, I'm not familiar with those closer local oasis that some may enjoy closer to the city, it's not really that cheap, and there aren't that many things close by that interest me.  I sometimes forget that Lima is actually on a coastal dessert, and you have to go quite a ways before you see much vegetation or really anything.  The point I am trying to make is that I know understand how and why people can get "trapped" in a city.  "Trapped" definitely reflects how I feel here sometimes, and I find myself desperately longing for green cornfields!  However, I will be breaking out of this trap next week, and that I am very excited about.  Julio and I have a vacation planned to the northern coast and a couple days in the sierras.  We are traveling with another couple, friends of Julio's, who are very nice.  I am looking forward to warmer temperatures, sun, relaxation, no work, and lots of new experiences.  Luckily, Julio's friend has a car, so this will be a road trip - my favorite type of trip!  We won't be hitting any major tourist destinations and fighting the crowds; we will be heading to a couple quiet destinations with several sights to see and places to explore.  It is everything I could ever want in a vacation - truly!

The last few weeks I have finally started to see the finish line to a never ending race.  The start of this race began when I said my first "hola como estas" with a horrible American accent.  The end of this race gives me the confidence to actually speak up and completely understand a conversation.  I may not be real close to the end of this race; however, I definitely passed the halfway mark!  I find myself actually understanding people, replying without thinking to hard, and then smiling to myself like wow - I can do this!  Of course, this usually occurs with basic common conversations.  I can usually now understand some of the more complex or group conversations as well; however, I definitely need a lot of time to first think in English - translate to Spanish - make sure I am using the right tense (there are like 40!) - then reply.  My delayed responses are getting my by I guess, but I look forward to further improvements. 

It has been a trying couple of weeks here in Peru as far as my relationship goes.  I blame this on a wonderful thing called finals week!  Thank goodness it is over.  Julio and I generally just see each other on the weekends and one night a week, and that is about right in my opinion.  He is very busy with school and work, and I feel very happy with the time we get to spend together.  However, the last two and half weeks have been more challenging.  He has been crazy busy and stressed - putting him in a bad.  I never get to see him or talk to him - putting me in a bad mood.  I then talk to a couple people who kind of put some crazy ideas in my head like that I need to demand more from my boyfriend and not put up with anything.  So, I get a big head and try to demand that I deserve everything and won't except anything else. (maybe this is a little dramatic - but you probably get the idea).... Anyways....   What I am trying to say is that I took a normal, happy life - made up some problem in my mind and acted on it - which actually created the real problem when there was no problem before - then I feel bad and realize I acted like a "typical woman" which of course no woman wants to be.  In the end, I'm lucky to have a boyfriend who is very understanding and still loves me.  Maybe it is in the water down here, putting that Peruvian fire and passion into my blood - not sure! 



my crazy look



So now that I am back to being sane again - after only being crazy for a couple of days, life is good!  I may not have as much direction and acheivement in my life as I had set out to have, but I think I have something more.  I feel alive, able, and free.  I'm not sure we can ever truly learn and know who we are in our lives, but that does not mean we should ever stop searching.  Life is an everchanging process.  I have no clue what I really want to be (when I grow up), where I want to live, or plans for the future.  Oddly enough, I do still feel 100% confident in who I am and the values I have.  At times, I wonder if I am slacking.... should I be setting higher standards for myself? real life goals?  Then I think, if I had these predefined standards I was working towards at all times - could I ever just live and be happy?  I'm sure there is a combination that works best for each person.  I've decided, at least for now, I'm pretty ok with just taking things as they come.  I always try to do well at what I am doing and make others around me feel happy.  I'm pretty sure that isn't the secret to life or progress in society, but it leaves me at peace.

Good night to all!

6-6-11

The first time I came to Peru, I was a backpacker longing for an adventure through those places not traveled and seen by most.  It was quite a mind rattling experience, but at the same time a complete blur.  It isn't that I wasn't seeing what was going on around me because I definitely had my eyes wide open, but it was a deeper understanding to the question "how?" that I couldn't grasp.  Sure I could see the poverty, I could comprehend the dire situation that these people are in and that the reason for it reaches far out of their personal control, but how?  How in this day and age do we not have a solution?  How in this day and age, after 1000's of years of government, have we not mastered the art of successfully governing the people? How in this day and age do we not understand or care about the consequences of our actions until it is too late?  Is free will to blame? Are we the people of God inhibited by our own free will?  Are we unable to overcome our desire to make decisions based on our own needs and wants?  Is it really human instinct to satisfy your own needs before another's?

Of course I don't have the answers to any of these questions, and of course I am guilty of these selfish acts.  I even dare to complain and suggest that I am having a difficult time.  Shame on me. Had I put that wasted energy into doing some good for someone else - even the smallest of tasks, I would have been reminded that I have everything I could possibly hope for.

The results of Peru's election have been made official. The majority in this country has spoken (although the margin was very small!), and they are ready for a complete 180 of the government process. Ollanta Humala will be the new president of Peru.  From one standpoint he is viewed as a "nationalist" looking to incorporate socialism to better the life of the poor and change the future of this country for equality of all.  On the other hand, he is viewed as a "dictator", an ex-military leader wanting to take complete control of the country and destroy any economic future.  Today, the peruvian stock market fell over 12% in the first hour of opening.  Markets were then closed for the day to avoid a complete disaster.  What will tomorrow bring?  Part of my wants to be fearful and join the belief of the masses that Humala is going to force government control, change the constitution, kick out all the foreign individuals and businesses (me included!) and drive the economy into the ground creating havoc. In reality, \my true feeling is that Humala does want to do what is best for the people and help them.  Socialism is a great idea in theory, but it has a long standing history that proves a socialist society can not rise up.  By taking from the rich (taxes, control, etc...) and giving to the poor, how does the situation really get better?  Sure the gap becomes smaller between the rich and poor, but business growth slows and self-motivation to become better or work harder falls.  I'm not saying that government regulation does not have its place.  I consider myself to personally lean a little to the left in the political spectrum.  There is definitely a place for government control and regulation in a free market society; how much? and where? are the most difficult questions.  I hope Humala can see the need for a balance, and along with his Congress will have the people's future in mind.  What is a fix for today is in no way what will be a fix or success for the future.

That is enough about politics. I pray the people can come together and seek a higher motivation to not only better their own economic situation, but create something that will grow and give the next generation to have the simple luxurious we take for granted at their finger tips.  Basic needs like clean water, a roof, hopefully education and health care will be something available for everyone.

A subject I have been wanting to talk about has really come to the forefront this week.  It kind of falls into line with the elections and thoughts of "how" as well.  I've been thinking a lot about the things that really build our character and make us who we are.   It is common to assume that one has personal characteristics or mannerisms based on their genes or the social condition they were raised in.  Of course this is true, and has been proven so by science.  I was wondering how it is that some people fall so easily into this roll and take on the traits that come so naturally to them and other people don't.  I'm not in any way inclining that one way is better than the other.  The question does arise to me though, is it our choice to change it?  Is it our state of mind that allows us to make the decision to step out of what comes naturally and change it, or is it just dumb luck that some people are 100% not influenced by these natural instincts.  I believe that it is a state of mind; however, I also believe that there are many outside factors that have to fall into place at just the right time to make it possible.  I wonder these things as more of an inquiry on what drives the human race and how can we reach a greater good.  I know I definitely fall into the category of being subject to those natural instincts of genes and social coding that have made me who I am.  I like to think I can at times step away from my instincts and see things as an outsider watching with no predispotion, but at the end of the day most of my ideals have been ingrained through my upbringing. 

At times I may think and wonder too much, but what I am searching for is more the answer to what really contributes most to a peaceful and loving society.  Is it the majority who follow the natural disposition that inhibit a society, or is it those who are watching the world from a different state of mind (a state of mind that maybe does not have a personal benefit or loss) that inhibit society.  I don't think that there is an answer and I'm sure everyone has their own personal way of viewing this.  I tend to be really interested in reading and learning about how we control our own minds and state of being.  Is to master your own state of mind really a deeper way of seeing the world, or does it just cause you to miss out?  For me, the state of mind has an immense power over your own personal destiny, but are we really supposed to have control over that?  Next time you answer a questions, take note of your first instinct, then take a step back and look at it from outside.  Pretend that the outcome will have no personal affect on you, is your answer the same?

5-31-11

As I sit in my office with my coat on (yes it gets cold here!), I am longing for the beautiful summer days of Minnesota.  You may also be wondering why I am sitting in my office writing this; shouldn't I be working?  Yes - I wish with everything in me that I could be working on something of importance.  My work here has continued to be pretty slow.  This month of May was definitely better than April; however, the last two weeks have become pretty void of interested travelers.  Since the majority of our travelers come from the United States, I guess there are a lot of reasons that justify the lag in tourists.  Due to the continually rising gas prices (flights increasing!), an uncertainty about the economy, and continuous natural disasters - there isn't much hope to see a big rise in the interest to spend thousands of dollars on a family vacation to South America.  I am lucky that it was very busy here when I did first arrive and have continued to have some success in booking trips in advance.  My pay is a very small monthly sum as a salary and the rest comes from commission.  I don't get paid my commissions for a client that books until close to the time before the client arrives.  This is good becasue I have a lot of clientes arriving in the next 3 months, so at least I will still continue to have an ok income through August.  However, I am beginning to get a little worried about what will happen after the summer tourist season ends.  I guess I can only hope that the economic situation improves and people become motivated to try to book their holiday travel to Peru!  (I keep repeating this in my head to try to keep myself positive; but I am finding myself growing more anxious every day)  If anyone has a great home business idea they want to share, I may be interested! =)  I've been playing with a few ideas, but to make it happen here - where I am not even a legal resident - may be quite challenging.

The following week will probably bring about some changes in Peru as elections are on Sunday.  As I have written before, the final two candidates for president are not popular and very extreme on each side of the spectrum.  I am honestly a little worried to see what will happen - especially in the smaller cities outside of Lima.  As the North of Peru is strongly in favor of Keiko and the South of Peru is strongly in favor of Humala.  There have already been some problems with riots and protestors, and I can only imagine that after the election results are confirmed there may be some conflict.  It is an interesting situation and as an outsider I am not trying to judge, but I am a little scared for the people of this country. A lot of the hope that was there for a turn around for the people of this country has been diminished as they are forced to choose between these candidates.  I hear a lot of people saying well I am going to vote for "this candidate" because they will do less damage to the country than the other candidate.  What a way to choose... Pick the candidate seen as doing the "lesser damage" to your country.

I guess the reason I haven't wrote in quite a while is that I haven't really done anything very exciting lately.  My life has pretty much consisted of work during the week plus now I have Spanish classes two nights a week.  Then on the weekends, we have pretty much just stayed in Lima.  Julio's schedule is pretty hectic between work and school, so it is hard to really get away and go do anything right now.  I know that I could plan something on my own or go somewhere with friends here, but it isn't as simple as it sounds.  I could arrange to rent a car I guess (I would never be the driver in this city!) or get on any number of buses that may be going to and from my weekend destination, but it takes quite a bit of time.  Also, I honestly wouldn't be comfortable traveling alone on a bus - and I don't think Julio would ever let me attempt it anyway.  So..... hopefully soon we can plan a a 3 day weekend so we can actually go somewhere and get out of the city.

This entire blog sounds a little bit boring and negative, and that is not the tone I am going for.  It is not that anything is persay "bad" here, it kind of just "is".  Since it "is what it is", it really is up to me to accept it and make the most of it.  For the most part I am very happy here and with the way that everything has turned out, but like anywhere you are or anything you do - you have to set the mood yourself.  Right now I guess I am just choosing to be content with "what it is" and really have no complaints.  I do feel myself getting a little anxious though.  Being anxious is not always a negative thing - I honestly think it will probably inspire some motivation.  What that motivation will be for is yet to be determined.  Maybe I will head out on a new life journey, maybe become inspired on the business side, maybe some faith and soul searching, or any number of scenarios I haven't yet fathomed.  As many of you know, I don't just sit with "content" for very long.  I really believe that I excel and thrive off of change and new challenges.  So even though right now I may be at a bit of a stand still, I know there is some excitement over the horizon - I just haven't looked hard enough yet.  =)

My apologies for the lack of pictures - as I usually really enjoy documenting my experiences with first hand photos to share with you all.  My camera has been under repair for almost 2 months now.  Apparently here in Peru, it is impossible to get a new part for a camera.  Or so it seems.... I think I will just go pick up my camera and us it as is - it still functions - the zoom just does not work due to an incident involving sand. (Julio is in no way to blame for this - haha)  Hopefully soon I will have it back!

Also, to all my friends and family - I would love to hear from you!  Look me up on skype or send me an email - I feel a little out of the loop down here.  Take Care Everyone!

5-6-11

About three weeks ago, Julio and I went on a hike outside of Lima.  It was a little over a 2 hour journey heading out of the city with a combination of combis, taxis, and a bus.  Driving through the outskirts of Lima, I can't help but be amazed by what I see.  It feels entirely impossible to leave this city.  Even as the city road begins to wind through the foothills and  up into the mountains, there are still people living in every liveable crevice.  The land is very uninhabitable in many areas, as it is pretty much dessert like rock/sand hills with virtually no vegetation.  People live all along the highway, right up to the highway, and on up the side of the mountain anywhere they can put a semi fixed structure to call their home.  There is very little regulation as far as land ownership and property lines are concerned.  You could go as far as to say it is unexistent in some regions.  To be honest, it is a little hard to see.  I realize many of these people have no where to go, probably have no jobs as there isn't much out on the outskirts of the city, but it still feels like something should be done.  Where are all these people coming from?  Even Julio commented that since the last time he had been out of the city this direction he did not recall there being this many people.  It is like you can't find the country, no matter how far you keep going.  This is a very disturbing thought and feeling for a girl who comes from southwest MN.  It also opens my eyes wide to how fortunate I am to have grown up in the United States.  I'm not trying to imply that it is a matter of being better or worse, but we definitely have priveleges and assistance in the U.S. that are not possible in a 3rd world country. 

Eventually, we did reach a point along the river valley where everything turned green and beautiful as we begin to really drive into the tall mountains of the Andes.   We got dropped off at a small village where we paid a fee of 2 soles to enter the trail.  It was supposed to be a 3 hour hike up to a beautiful waterfall deep in the mountains.  We didn't start until about 11 am and we knew the rains were expected to begin later in the afternoon, so we started out in a hurry.  I like to think I am pretty in shape and can keep up with the best, and I tried my darndest.  Julio is also quite an athlete, and I think one who is not accustomed to traveling with a girl =).  The first hour was very intense, up, up, and up.  The trail was fairly well mainted for a while, but then turned into a very jagged rocky trail and not real easy to hike.  The most amaing thing was that there were several very small villages and farms along the way.  We even had to jump off the path in a hurry as an andean women herded her cows, donkeys, and sheep down the mountain with her 2 small kids running along beside her.  This was not real easy terrain to maneuver in, and the fact that these people probably do this every day - 5 times a day - now that is the way to train for a marathan!  Anyway, we began to close in on what seemed like it should be the top as we saw a sign that said 2 km to the falls - I think the hike was 5 km each way.  I must admit - I needed a break!  I was beat and having a hard time catching my breathe in the high altitude.  After a couple granola bars, some water, and a short rest - we finally climbed up the rest of the way.  At a little slower of a pace as I think Julio finally realized he was a little intense for me.  We reached the viewpoint in record time and had about an hour to sit and enjoy the scenery.  It was a beautiful set of waterfalls in an almost rainforest like setting.  The vegetation is absolutely amaing in these mountains. I pointed to two small homes at the very top and said to Julio, "Can you build me a house there?"  I don't think he realizes that I actually am serious. A couple of the hikers we had passed on the way up began to reach the top as well - one of them was very friendly and wanted to take our picture.  He then emailed me the pictures from the hike so I have something to share.  Here is a picture of us on our way back down.

After getting back down at about 3 pm we headed out to get the first bus back towards Lima.  We were both exhausted and not feeling the best.  I began to have this pain in my head while we were on the bus - all I could do was close my eyes.  When we stopped to transfer buses I had to grab a little something to eat and drink because the pain in my head was making me feel sick.  Finally, we just decided it was better to go and get home.  We got in a combi - extremely crowded, smelly, and loud.  This was not good.  I have never felt such pain in my life - the last hour of that drive was one of the most miserable things I have ever experienced.  Julio knew I was struggling - and he was trying so hard to help, but I couldn't even look at hiim or talk to him.  Luckily I eventually got a seat and opened the window with my head almost hanging out to try to get some air.  Some guy on the bus was trying to yell at me to close my window and started throwing a fit.  Julio got so mad and got into it pretty good with this guy.  Sometimes - I am glad I can not understand all of the Spanish.  Anyways, we finally got off the bus and got back to Julio's house with him pretty much dragging me along as I was too dizzy to hardly walk myself.  I had tears pouring down my face and the worst headache I have ever felt in my life.  I guess I now know what a migraine is!  I symphathize with any and all people who suffer from this - especially my little brother who used to get migraines all the time.  I have never felt so horrible and hope I never have another!  I kind of feel like it wasn't just the hike and altitude that made me sick, but maybe a combination of all the stresses in my life that I had been holding in.   Julio took such good care of me though, I must say I am one very lucky girl!

Life has been pretty casual around here the last couple of weeks.  Work had been really slow for a couple weeks, I believe due to the hike in flight prices in April.  Luckily the last two weeks have seen a little relief in airline prices - and it sounds like gas may have reached the peak and either level off or head down - so things are looking up!  I had a really busy week this week at work and I can tell my mood is up already.  When work is slow I feel unproductive, bored, and not as motivated to even do other things in my life.  I truly prefer to be so busy that it feels like a tornado just went through the office.  I kind of thrive on the energy and fast pace - and I can tell that it directly impacts how I am outside of work.  After a busy day at work I come home with my mood up and feeling productive - it is a good feeling!

The weather here is really beginning to change.  It is a little more dreary outside and the temperatures have definitely dropped in the evenings.  I also am feeling some physical side affects to this climate change.  My allergies have always bothered, but I did get allergy shots in high school and they actually helped some.  My allergies were not real bad throughout college or while I lived in Colorado.  Here, there most be something new I am allergic too.  I semi jokingly said I was allergic to the city, but in all reality I kind of think I am.  I have been feeling a little trapped - gasping for fresh air and open fields!  Now, it's not just the emotional pull I am feeling, but also something physically telling me my body was not made for this.  Well, I'm not planning on leaving anytime soon, so let's hope I adjust quickly!

Good night to all - thanks for reading my random blog.

5-2-11

I know I had said I wasn't going to blog on such a regular schedule, but I did not intend to abandon my blog for this long.  You could say I've been feeling a little unmotivated as of late.  I'm not sure what has come over me the last couple weeks - well other than a lack of motivation.  Life is becoming a little challenging at times, and I am not progressing in my life here the way I had hoped.  I have very high expectations of myself and when those are not met, I have a hard time excepting the truth.  I kind of give up or get down when things aren't going real well.  It is hard for me to deal with these times, I think, becasue 9 times out of 10 in my life things have gone really well.  Everything from academics, sports, moving, jobs, or life changes - I typically handle, adjust, and succeed. 

Some things are not coming to me as easily as I had hoped - mainly language. Since language is the basis for any social or academic progression - all of that has pretty much halted as well.  I felt a real progression for like the first maybe 6 weeks that I was living here, but now, these last six weeks have pretty  much felt like a stand still.  I admit that this is mostly my own fault.  Due to some frustration and absolute boredom with trying to study on my own, I have made absolutely no efforts to study and push myself.  I have reached a point in my abilities where I can communicate and make out what is being asked of me.  However, this is on a very basic level of communication.  When it comes to social matters, local lingo, talking in groups, or understanding when someone isn't speaking directly and clearly - I am pretty much lost.  This inability to just catch on once I knew the vocab is very frustrating.  As I said before, I had high expectation and thought I would just start to pick things up and be speaking like a regular Peruvian.  It has only been 3 months, and I realize these expectations are crazy; however, part of me though maybe it was possible.  At long last, I don't have the patience to just wait around until I eventually start to speak better. (this could take like a year!)  I have decided that one of the biggest benefits I will receive out of living in Peru is becoming somewhat fluent in another language.  This will undoubtedly be a big help in my future and open many possibilities for future jobs.   Not to mention that I no longer want to be that "American" that only speaks "American". (and yes I meant to say speaks American instead of speaks English)  This weekend I began my search for a language school that teaches Spanish.  Surprisingly, there are a ton of schools that offer spanish language classes to expats living in Peru.  The problem lies in the schedule of this classes.  Most schools are targetting full time students and offering a full language immersion. (this means between 4 - 8 hours of class everyday during the day)  There are a couple schools that offer alternative class options that only require one class a day, but these classes are only offered during the hours that I am working.  At long last I found two schools that have possible schedules that may work for me.  One school offered a four hour class every Saturday, so I called to inquire.  It turns out that even though they advertise this class, it only becomes available when enough interest arises to put a class together - currently I am the only one interested. Alas, I found one school that offers a night class - Monday - Wednesday - Friday - from 6-8pm.  This could potential be a very good option.  I need to talk to my boss and possibly renegotiate my hours/wages to make room for this class.  I typically work until 6:30pm currently - I would have to probably leave work by 5:15 in order to get to my class on time.  Also, this school happens to be apparently the best language school in Lima; therefore, the most expensive.  Time will tell, but I hope in the near future I will be enrolled!  Wow - this is probably really boring for someone to read.  I apologize, but it is what is weighing heavy on my mind currently.  Fixing the language issue is really the first step for me to expand my horizons and fully enjoy this culture and experience.  Without it I basically feel like I am walking around with a blindfold on.

I think I am going to call it a night.  I have a couple stories and topics I want to touch on, but I will save that for tomorrow as I am pretty much falling asleep on my computer as we speak.  =) Goodnight World