We are midway through our Peru adventure. This is the point where strains can appear and nerves can fray, among the students and the adults. Precisely because of this, it is also the point where learning can deepen, as we face these challenges and find positive ways to address and resolve them.
For example, we are at the point in our homestays where gifts have been given, we have shared family information and photos, and the low-hanging conversational fruit has been harvested. What, then, do we talk about? We have also shared accommodations that may lack some of the amenities we take for granted; we may crave more familiar comfort foods; and we may simply be weary. Our patience with one another may wear thin.
Our group has not been exempt from these challenges. You would be impressed, though, with their maturity and use of humor in seeking ways to air their concerns, both with the adults and with one another, and reinforce norms of positive group dynamics.
Today, we have an exciting change of routine, as we hike into the mountains on our overnight trek. We will hike for about three hours to reach our campsite, where lunch will await us. Our daypacks will be light, as our camping gear and heavy clothing will travel on horseback. Adolfo, who is the husband of Adela, our invaluable local coordinator, will be our trek leader. He was also our guide at the Ollantaytambo ruins and appears in at least one of those photos. In the afternoon, we will hike from our camp, which is at about 10,500 feet, further up the mountains to explore flora and fauna unique to the Andes.
After a cold night under the Southern Cross, we'll hike into the Yuracmayo Valley. There, we will visit the Pumamarca ruins, which pre-date the Incan Empire. Thence back to Ollantaytambo.
We are fortunate that all members of the group are healthy enough to do the trek, and we hope for a continuation of the spectacular weather we have enjoyed thus far. We will post a brief update as soon as possible after our return to town, but please don't worry--this is definitely a case of "no news is good news."
Happy Father's Day. Esta noche, debajo de las estrellas de los Andes, pensaremos de ustedes, y ustedes calentareis nuestro corazones.
Mr. Webster
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