Sorry for the late post, we were up late watching a movie together!
Friday, August 3rd
Question of the day: What does work-life balance mean and what are the expectations of it within your culture?
Quote of the day: “Every person need to take one day away. A day in which one consciously separates the past from the future. Jobs, family, employers, and friends can exist one day without anyone of us, and if our egos permit us to confess, they could exist eternally in our absence. Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for. Each of us needs to withdraw from cares which will not withdraw from us” -Maya Angelou
Like Maya Angelou said, life is about having that equal balance between work and self-care. Today was dedicated to having a day to ourselves. Because of all our hard work throughout the week, we were able to de-stress and get to know Guaranda and each other a little better.
To start our day off, we were able to enjoy a late morning start, waking up at 8:30 am. We split up into two groups: one with Jess and the other with Kim. From there, we were able to call home, buy snacks, and shop at local stores. Between our heartwarming calls back home to the dance party as the Yes cafe, it was a very emotional yet unifying day. To end the night on a great note, we had a very bonding nightly meeting where people shared their personal stories and we gave lots of hugs. After this great day, we ended the night with a scary movie night in the lobby complete with popcorn from Ana.
The unforgettable screams and laughs we had this night is something that I would say was a blessing to share with these wonderful people, and I will continue to live in the now so I could continue to take in memories like last night.
Sincerely,
Alexis
Hey Jade, I love the smile. I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself and making a difference. Love you always.
Your free day sounded awesome. It was great to hear your voice.
It looked like a great day! – Please journal
Hi Zarmani
Looks like you guys are having a fun day
Love Grandmommie
Hi Alexis,
Sounds like a great night everyone looks happy and eating junk food and calling home. Love you
Taylor,
I see the joy and happiness you found in buying Coca Cola! The simple things are sometimes what we miss the most! Love you, Auntie DiDi
A day of sleeping in and free time was probably so needed! You all look so happy and carefree! A shout out to Jess and Kim for guiding our children on this trip of a lifetime and taking such good care of them! Truly can’t thank you enough and am forever grateful to you both ! Carter – buy yourself something nice for once and don’t come home with money in your pockets . Leave it all in Ecuador. Miss you and love you , mom
Hey Alexis,
Great blog! You and Anahi and your fellow new found friends all look so happy. I am so proud of you that I am beaming as I write this. I can’t wait to you can Facetime me and give me a full report of your trip. Love you and miss you. Titi Liz.
Hi Zoe and to your friends,
I am so proud that Zoe is enjoying the same experience that all of you are having. The fact that you all are there, turns you into amazing people with beautiful personalities, building strong, loving and caring characters that this world really needs.
Enjoy every second.
I love you Zoe. The pictures say so much of the wonderful time that you are having. Besos, Te Amo!
Tay,
What a great day off – you found coke, we got to talk, and you watched a scary movie!! It was so great to talk to you and I am so happy you are having such a great time! Love you!!
Becca, sounds like you had a great “free day”, Hope the movie wasn’t to scary!
Love,
Great Aunt Terry
Dear Jake,
You look awesome and it looks like you are having a great time on your trip!!! Hugs and Kisses to you and see you on Saturday !!!! Enjoy the last week with your friends too!!!! Take care and see you soon!!!!!
Love,
Mom
Teenagers, popcorn (other junk food), and a scary movie. Universal and needs no translation,
Love it!
Love you ~ banana
Hi Carson it looks like your free day was a blast junk food and a scary movie what more can you ask for ? Auntie can’t wait until next week love ya