A Peruvian Thanksgiving
The past week as I spent time in Peru, in the middle of the Andes Mountains among the native villagers, it became clear pretty quick that my little world of blogging about fashion and style mean nothing in the grand scheme of things. I think that adventures like the one I just experienced is God’s way of reminding us to take a step back to appreciate what’s really important in life. So as a tribute to the amazing time I had in South America, I’ve compiled a list of what I’ve learned from being thousands of miles away from home and all the comforts I’ve become so used to.
- There’s nothing more humbling than having a 3-year-old outrun and outlast you.
- Don’t always believe innocent looking little girls…some can really bamboozle you.
- Balloons + funny hats + men on stilts = one damn good party.
- When travelling, always ask what you’re eating before you actually eat it.
- Douche means shower in French.
- “Inca Kola” - La bebida primera de Peru
- Original flight from Lima to Cusco = $180
Last minute flight from Lima to Cusco because your credit card had an error = $250
Missing the assigned flight from Lima to Cusco = Priceless - “Hooters” translates to “great wings” in every country.
- Don’t leave your digital camera unattended.
- If you plan on spending 10 days straight with someone, make sure you’re 1) very good friends; 2) aren’t embarassed by bodily functions; and 3) can be brutally honest about annoying habits (Sorry about the making the soap mushy!)
- Sometimes it’s more gratifying giving bread than making bread.
- Legos were invented centuries ago.
- It’s OK to choose shopping over visiting another church.
- The emergency mule is used 80% of the time.
- You can take a girl away from her job, but you cannot take the job away from the girl.
- Pisco sours are much stronger than they appear.
- Ed, thanks for asking me to be a part of the ceremony. It was a nice and unexpected surprise and I am so glad I was able to be there for you.
- To Pam, Shannon, and Belinda…I’m still not a Nature Girl nor will I ever be one.
- To Page, Monica and Kristi…Thanks for being the best and most fun travel buddies ever. We survived the taxi in Lima, we can now conquer the world!
It took me 31 years to finally understand the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Because when all is said and done, nothing feels better than taking a long hot shower, sleeping in your own bed, and appreciating everyone and everything in your life.
