Time to Say Goodbye

Well over the past few weeks, things have been coming to an end. I've done my last fieldtrips with the kids, had a big bonfire with the teenagers, had my last day of teaching, went to the jungle, and have had some goodbye parties.

I went to the jungle, to visit an orphanage and school there. They were learning about insects, so we went out into the jungle and caught insects that I've never seen in my life before. In this town, they also have wild monkeys, that swing from the trees. They are quite mischievious and will try to steal whatever you have on you.

On Mother's Day, I was invited to one of the teachers houses where we ate guinea pig again. Nothing celebrates mothers, like eating a rodent.

Yesterday at the orphanage, they threw a goodbye party complete with a mariachi band. It was quite entertaining! I will be leaving the orphanage on Monday and then I will be traveling to Peru and Argentina for a few weeks before returning to the States. I have made many good friends, and have been shown much kindness from Ecuadorians. I have learned many lessons and have been given so much love from the kids here. This year has been an amazing experience and I feel very blessed that I was given the opportunity to come down to Ecuador.

At the bonfire

Dancing to the mariachi band at the goodbye party

Milestones

Today marks 8 years that I am cancer free! Thank you to all who have prayed for me and all those who have been there for me over these past 8 years. I thank God that I am healthy and that I am able to be where I am today.
I will be leaving the orphanage in one week, with a mixture of emotions. I am very excited to be going home for the summer and seeing family, but I will be sad to leave as well.
I will be posting many pictures from the last couple weeks in the next few days.
Also Happy Mother's Day to all moms!