We all were amazed this morning at both NGO village visits. One group had a chance to learn firsthand about weaving from indigenous ladies who showed us how they spin wool and also create beautiful textiles. We even had a chance to weave our own bracelets. The highlight however may have been dressing up in traditional clothing. Another group went higher up the mountain and had a chance to use the posters they created in educating specifically on the importance of washing our hands and brushing our teeth. From what I heard it was a lot of fun but also a challenge as not only are these not customary practices but speaking in Spanish to Quechua-speaking children can also be difficult.
When we returned back we observed how our lunch would be cooked in a similar style as a Hawaiian imu. After an hour we joined back and shared a wonderful meal with host families on the community soccer field. As you may guess, a lively soccer match ensued thereafter. This time however, our team was about strong and we versed a World Leadership School group from Colorado that had about twenty students and four adults.
Before dinner tonight, we checked into what some might call the Ritz as it is a bit more comfortable. A meaningful and very heartfelt final candle ceremony was shared. This was an opportunity to think more about refining the experience down to a single thing we want to be sure we bring back with us. Many students shared how they have a renewed sense of privilege and want to be more appreciative. Afterwards we walked into town and ate wood-oven pizza after pizza. Yum! Several students closed out the night with a cafe bon bon (coffee with condensed milk)--not recommended by any of us adults.
The feeling is one of closure and yet we have a full day/night in Cuzco tomorrow. Clearly everyone is looking forward to going back to Hawaii and yet, there are some mixed feelings as the group has grown close. Peru and her people have definitely had a profound effect on us all.
Below are a few images from today. Enjoy!
