We had 2 days in Cusco for recovery but felt we hadnt seen any of it. We decided we were due another night out so we visited the bars very cool even got free drinks!

One of the last things on my list of stuff to do whilst away was horse riding so we did that the next day .Mucho fun was had! Despite the rain and lack of sleep!

We were to spend new year at a home stay on Amatani island on lake titicaca. We took a boat from puno and visited a few islands on the way. The sun bounces off the lake and the water is so clear you can see the bottom. The boat is slow but it is so beautiful I just want to soak it up.

We arrive on the Island and are introduced to our adoptive mothers. Ours is Olga she has a warm smile and is keen to speak english to us. Our house is a simple two storey place made from adobe bricks and toilet outside.There are sheep and a maize field. We share an evening meal with Olga and familly simple but tasty. We sit in tiny room huddled by a stove. I am again shown how happy people with so little can be. The brothers look after little julie and they share everything.We brought some sangria to start the celebrations.

The fiesta starts with tradional dress and we head down to the community hall.A yellow garland for good luck over my head.There is a band, everyone sits round clapping and sharing a few beers. We dance round with all joining in.Olga seems to takes this very seriously. At 12 there are some (I am sure highly dagerous) fire crackers and we are handed hot chocolate and sweet bread.

We reluctantly go back up the hill in the pitch black to home. I dont think I could be father from My real home but I am glad I was part of this one for a very special new year.