The Final Countdown "You're really going to miss us" a lady in our church informed us before we left, leaving us amused at her confidence. We've become very familiar with this unashamed pride that many Peruvians exude - about their food, their towns, their scenery, their natural resources, their music and at times, themselves! While we appreciate that Peru has a LOT to offer in many of these areas, this confidence is not always justified but always entertaining!...

Patrick in Peru 'It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men'~ Frederick Douglass (Karen) Being out here I'm yet again reminded that I've been unbelievably and undeservedly blessed with my parents and childhood. Childhood is an unknown concept for many children around the world who simply don't have the luxury to spend time playing, exploring and laughing, and who are expected to take on adult roles long before they're ready. Huaraz seems to...

The Underdogs (Mark) One of the big highlights recently was the opportunity to organise and run the annual Arco Iris football tournament for the street kids. It seems the best time to hold this event each year is when there is a male gringo in town. Well, there I was, so let the games begin! Every Saturday morning in March I awoke with the same dread: I'm stepping onto a pitch with an aggressive mob of 7-27 year-olds where literally anything can happen. OK, a s...

Huaraz 'Marches' On As the snow was setting new records at home, the rain was pouring down on Huaraz, heavier than ever before. Being Irish, you'd think we would have felt right at home. Alas, no. We may be used to rain, but rarely does the electricity fail, the rain seep in the windows and ceilings, and the streets become fast flowing rivers in seconds. The deafening thunderstorms that accompany the rain are pretty awesome, if not a little unnerving. Especially...

Church Search Unfortunately it seems everywhere there are people there are also difficulties and divisions - Huaraz is no exception, as shown by the many small churches scattered about the town. Since we arrived here we've visited different churches to get more of an idea of the Christian church in this part of the country, while also trying to decide on one we can attend. The Alianza Church (a North American denomination) and the local Baptist church were the ...