We began the day by waking up at 6:30 in the morning to prepare for our trip. Arriving downstairs the sky was dark and grey with a little drizzle falling down. Eventually everyone gathered and got prepared to leave. Grabbing some breakfast to go we managed to head on the bus for an hour and half ride to Chimborazo. When we arrived to the first shelter, we were almost blown away by the 40km per hour wind. We didn’t go all the way up the mountain, but we did stop to take some pictures.
While visiting the mountain we discovered that two people for the US were stranded because one was in critical condition suffereing from hypothermia. And the conditions were so treacherous tha teven the rescue team was in danger. Due to the weather conditions, we were unable to fully explore and experience the hike.
We loaded up on the bus to drive to Polylepis Forrest for another scheduled hike. Arriving at the scene we were literally blown and beaten by the wind. Rocks were getting in our eyes, ankles, mouths, and ears. Despite such horrendous conditions, we attempted to perservere. However, Pachumama was not in agreement and a huge gust of wind physically moved us backwards. So we ran back to the bus for shelter as a form of safety.
Despite such an ordeal, we would not allow these challenges to stop us from enjoying our fun day. As our quote of the day states: “Time flies whether your haviing fun or not, the choice is yours,” anonymous.
As a form of understanding the indigenous culture further, we had a guest speaker. He taught us about his beliefs in natural medicine as he has a masters degree from the University of Peru. He shared many plants with us one of which was called “sour cane,” and it tasted similiar to rhubarb.
Esli- I learned that patience is vital in order to succeed as a leader.
Andrea- I learned the importance of teamwork today.
Sounds like rough weather for a fun day. I am impressed that the group seemed to keep a good attitude. Safe travels to you all on your journey home this weekend. We are looking forward to seeing you. Maddie!
Glad to heard you got to explore a bit, and proud tha you use safety precautions and no put your delf in risk. With tha whether you did a good choice of no continue your hike.
Hope you continue enjoying,
I’m so proud of you Andrea we are looking forward for Monday.
Wow sounds like you guys had quite the adventure today. Hopefully the weather didn’t best you guys up too much. Love all the pictures that you guys share with us.
Mindy – hope the cold wasn’t too unbearable for you. See you in a few days. Love you!!!
❤️ zahra ❤️
Looking good Zahra baji?
Sounds like an adventure to remember! Sorry you all didn’t get to explore but glad you are all safe. What a great group photo! The pics from CAP3 day were also great. You knew it was coming, K…you finally got to try the cuy (at least I hope you did 🙂 The murals look outstanding. Can’t wait to hear more about the BOYZ concert. We are all looking forward to seeing you very soon. Millers will be here, too. Safe travels everyone! Love, Mama Belle
Rough elements …. good job being patient guys 🙂 Cant wait to hear from you Zahra.
So glad that everyone is safe now… An adventure you will all remember and treasure forever… I’m sure.
Come home soon Zahra…
?
Thank you Esli and Andrea for a detailed report of the day. What a challenging yet fun experience! The pictures are gorgeous. I love the landscape and the blue sky. Now it’s time to pack up, you are leaving Riobamba, but the memories of this trip stay with you forever. May you all have a safe return to the US. Thank to everyone for all your posts. We’ll see you Monday!
Elisabeth
Thanks for the post. I really hope you guys had a fantastic final day in Ecuador. I’m sure, for some of you, this won’t be your final day in Ecuador. Until we meet again ?
Can’t wait to see you, Haley. It’s not the same without you. Dad
Wow rough conditions glad you all made it back in one piece.
Safe travels back to the states.
Mindy see you soon! HI Salayna!
What a day!! That is the mountains. Beautiful and not predictable. Great job staying positive and adventurous. Can’t wait to see everyone and hug you Sara!!!!!
Love mama
Hey Katie!! Morgan, Kamryn, and Nataly here!
Today it got up to about 103 degrees and boy were we thankful to not be running in the stuffy gym today! We all miss you and cannot wait to have you back in the barn next week! We wish you safe, comfortable travels. So excited to hear all about your trip.
Much love from the volleyball gang.