I have the distinct memory of myself as a six-year-old, trying to learn the folk tune "Go Tell Aunt Rhody" on my violin. It wasn't pretty. Besides the scratchiness of my tone, I was so frustrated with the bowing pattern that I began to cry. I was never going to master the violin, let alone learn this song! Nearly thirty years later, I realize that perseverance pays off, but it doesn't make it any easier for a beginner in Spanish at my age. I feel like I should b...

We've started our Spanish classes in Peru, which is why we haven't posted in a while (that, and we don't have internet capability at our homestay)! We've also been busy studying. In comparison to the physical challenge of the Inca Trail, the process of learning a new language has been far more demanding and humbling. Fairplay is an organization that empowers single mothers by providing them with the skills to instruct students in Spanish classes. We spend 8-...

Lorenzo meet Lorenzo. My cousin Ben and Joy's children Dinkanesh and Abenet wanted Paul and me to take this little bird along with us on our journey. It's meant to be included in pictures from time to time, and to provide humor and stress relief along the way (if one of us is tired, hungry, or crabby, we can use the bird to communicate)! We might use him to help us learn Spanish as well. At our first hostel in Cusco, we met another bird named Lorenzo, so we de...

We wanted to write a quick update as we have finished the Inca Trail. It was a LOT of work but we made it to Machu Picchu - it was amazing. Our trek was very memorable as we traveled with a couple from Columbia, 3 from Switzerland, a young man from China, 4 from Brasil, and about 10 Argentinians. The porters were amazing carrying group gear (actually running it up and down the trail) and preparing meals. We are now resting in Aguas Calientes. We will upload ...

We are now in Cuzco (pronounced Coos-co). By our observations, it's spelled in two different ways throughout the city, but we haven't figured out why yet. When we do, we'll let you know. Or if you know why, leave a comment! The first thing I said to Paul upon arrival was how inept I felt, both in my lung capacity and my poor Spanish skills. He said it was probably a good thing--not that I couldn't breathe, but that my world view was being challenged. I could...