Just a note to say I’ve arrived safely in Quito.
I’ve been staying with Rosa and her family and a student at her Spanish language school Vida Verde.
It’s a great place to start the time, as it’s very social with Rosa and her son Mateo, and the students and teachers in the school. And of course, the dog, Mia. I’ve met a few students from the States to remain in contact with, as always seems to happen. It’s a great context for getting acclimated again to the culture and people, altitude, food, etc. again, and all is going well - it’s great to be back. Socializing, meeting new and old friends, playing music together, catching up on some old places … there’s a lot I could share, but don’t have the time right now - but it’s been great.
I’ve also had discussions about possibly doing some training of the language school teachers in the use of Google products. We’ll see if that develops - it would need to be later in August or September.
Here’s a typical street view in this section of Quito.
I’ve picked up a local phone chip to have a phone number and cellular internet service. Not bad to get 10 GB for $10 for 30 days. I’ve updated the contact section with the new number, for anyone in Ecuador: +593 98 153 8173. I still have the use of my US number whenever I’m connected on WiFi, and that’s still the best way to reach me by phone or text if you’re in the US. It’s also my WhatsApp number. +1 857 261 2443.
I make regular trips to an adoration chapel nearby. A place I’ve gone when in Quito for over 8 years now:
This morning I went to a local Mass, and I noticed a man with palsy disabilities in a wheelchair at the main gate, as I approached from behind. I had wondered if he would still be there - I remembered him being there a few years ago, and our interactions together. Well, I was amazed when he completely remembered me, and we shared some good bear hugs…
On Monday July 25 (tomorrow as I’m writing this), I’ll be going off to Mindo for a retreat for 5-7 days, and then I’ll go to Chontal. After those times, I’ll have a clearer picture of my next steps.
I hope you are staying cool with all the heat waves passing around the world. Please continue to pray for me, and I remember you all in mine.
God bless,
Jerome