Question of the Day: How can I spend my time wisely on this day?
After a week of field trips, seminars, and listening to speakers, we finally had our first free day. The group was able to sleep longer through the morning than usual but had to be up for breakfast which was around 8:30. It felt great to be able to sleep in for two more hours than our usual wake up time. Since today was our free day, we had the opportunity to choose what we wanted to do but had to make sure we were able to spend or time in a productive manner.
After breakfast, half of the group went on a hike up a hill called Cerro Calvario. I tagged along since I have never really been hiking before so I thought it would be a great experience for me. Before we even reached the path to the top, we climbed up a steep road which already knocked the wind out of us. Hiking up to the top was exhausting and we encountered obstacles such as fast motorcycles, swarms, rocky paths, cars, and poop.
After about an hour and a half of walking up the hill, we finally reached the top. It felt rewarding to see the city from the top of the hill. It was also refreshing to literally have a giant gush of wind smack our sweaty faces. The view of the city as well as the mountains were beautiful and the weather was so perfect. It was absolutely one of the best things I have experienced.
Hazel excited for the trip
Starting off strong
Starting to get just a little tired.
We made it!!
Rochelle was pretty happy that we reached the top.
Carmina, Ben, and Heather enjoying the view.
Me (Monica) and Hazel doing the Titanic scene.
After the hiking group came back to the hostel to join the others for lunch, we had some others go out to spend their free time shopping for souvenirs to give to family and friends back home or just to finally eat processed food again. Some stayed home to sleep, relax, or hang out with friends. It was a very relaxing day after a week of hard work.
During the afternoon, all of us were able to call home! Some people decided to FaceTime others using the wi-fi next door instead of waiting in line to use the telephone. So many of us missed being able to see and talk to our family and friends especially since many of us are getting homesick. I personally enjoyed the conversation I had with my mom and I miss getting to hear her crazy loud voice! One more week until the next free day and two more weeks until we’re headed for home!
The adorable couple. Jade FaceTiming her boyfriend.
Olivia calling home
It was great to have a day where we were free to do whatever we wanted. There was no conflict in planning the activities everyone wanted to do so I think it was a fun and productive day for everybody and we all deserved it. (Even Norman and Asha, our program coordinators who spent most of the day at home) 🙂