I made it to a couple more museums.One was the Fundación de Guyasmín; a tribute to a great Ecuadorian artist.I went primarily to see the pre-Colombian artifacts. Guyasmín had devoted some of his earnings to displaying these pieces as a tribute to Ecuador's indigenous cultures.The shaman statues and ritualistic pieces, and the jewelry were my favorite.I was able to take some pictures of these and there are a few pictures of Guyasmín's art.They are from his later collections and are pretty dark.He recognized the suffering of the indigenous cultures and other poor people of the world.In every country he visited he would express his experience and empathy in his paintings.While in Cuba he became a friend of Fidel Castro and drew many portraits for and of him while in the country.It was an interesting experience though the tours were in Spanish so I only caught half of the story.

I also visited La Mitad del Mundo (the middle of the world). I wasn't able to see the museums which is the primary reason I rode the bus all the way out there ;-) So I will be returning at some point. It was neat though to stand in both hemispheres at the same time!

As for more great happenings in Quito.. I am enjoying practicing my Spanish.My threshold is about 30-40 mins. for a one-on-one conversation, after which my brain starts to slow.Wandering around La Mariscal and Quito's parks have proved to be good places to find people to conversate with.People seem to be aware of the tourist population here so they are receptive to slow down their speech and help out in English when they can.

It is difficult to describe but I feel inspired in some magical way here.My energy seems to be heightened somehow.Being physically closer to the sun and surrounded by beautiful scenery is part of it.I find it easy to recharge my battery by just focusing on the mountains or on an exotic flower and getting lost in its beauty.I have been reading and writing a lot which has been very relaxing and cleansing for the mind.Also, I think learning a new language is a spiritually healthy experience.It makes you slow down and focus on what is coming out of your mouth. My words are more connected to my heart.Also, it is a great test in patience and perseverance, courage (to initiate conversation), and forgiveness of self when you just can't seem to figure out what someone is saying!