Partido de fútbol!

This last Saturday I had the amazing opportunity to go to a soccer game here in Quito. 

Let me just say, fans here are CRAZY. I have a little story....

I was walking over to my friends house before the game to meet up with them and walk to the stadium together. After I got off the bus I hear some yelling so I looked to my left and saw a group of about 500 fans running straight towards me with all sorts of objects including broken bottles, sticks, rocks, etc. It took me all of about 30 seconds to register that they were running straight at me before I ducked into a doorway. Once I was tucked away safely, a local Mom told me that fans get pretty into soccer here and a fight had broken out in between the fans. Of course, the police tried to break it up and the tables turned and the police were being attacked by the Ecuadorians. Eventually the Ecuadorians ran away because they realized they couldn't take on the swat team too with rocks...haha. Nonetheless, it was quite the sight. 

The game was so much fun to watch but I definitely need to learn all of the chants that the fans do so that I can sit in the rowdy section! 

This is what the rowdy section looks like from afar...

I am pretty sure that there are no rule against have hazardous fire material in the crowds, such as fireworks that they set off all throughout the game. Couldn't have asked for a more interesting and exciting game. 

Mmmmm Fruit!!

Since I am now living on the equator...more or less,

there is an abundance of fruit available year round. 

I could not have dreamt of anything better, and you know what?

It is cheap! 

Life cannot get any better :)

Oh wait...I get fresh squeezed juice every morning too.

Those are just a few of the fruits I have been eating on a regular basis here.

El arte en las calles

These pieces of art have been installed in some 

the plazas in the historic district of Quito. 

Today I took a long day tour through the historic district of Quito. Besides seeing some beautiful old building and cathedrals, I got a chance to see some of this modern art that has been installed in some of the plazas in the historical district. I love the idea of art being out in the pubic where people don't need to pay to see it and it isn't just available to the upper class. 

The historical district had so much to offer and I definitely need to go back for a second and maybe third time. It was amazing to see famous places, like where Ecuador had it's last battle against Spain to gain their independence. After a long day of walking and climbing stairs, I am ready to have a slow week and start making plans for next weekend. How about the coast? I hope so!

Finally in Quito

These are just a few photos to give you a hint of what the view from my home in Quito looks like. It is absolutely stunning here and all my experiences have been nothing short of amazing. Since I have been here I have fallen in love with Spanish all over again, learned so much about a new culture and people, tasted some of the most delicious food (thanks to my wonderful Ecua Mama), and so much more.

I think that my favorite part of this trip so far has been the bus ride to and from school. It is like a scene straight out of a movie, the buses just fly through the hills of the Andes mountains with the windows open, blasting latina music...not to mention it is about 75 degrees and sunny here everyday! 

The adjustment has been so easy due to my amazing homestay situation and all of the great people I have met so far. I have been a little scared to take my camera around with me and make myself a bit of a target but I think that when I become more comfortable with my surroundings, there will be a lot more pictures to come!

All Packed and Ready To GO!

I leave at 6am tomorrow to Quito Ecuador for 5 months!!

I am getting so excited but so nervous.

Here are just a couple pictures of the lengthly packing process:

Packing with Kenz!

Finally all packed and ready to go. I have to admit, it was really hard packing for five months. I hope I got everything that I will need. Can't wait to take off tomorrow! I know it is going to be such a great adventure.

One of the best years so far...

For the past couple of days I have been admiring the number of good times I have had during the past. I have had some great laughs, new experiences, bonded with great people, and learned some important lessons. Just to name a few:

Spent time with amazing friends

 Ran my first half marathon

Broke my second bone in Shasta...oops

 Watched my brother graduate from college

 Went to my first country concert

 Went to my first rave with my best friend

It truly was a great year and I can't wait for all the other amazing years that are yet to come!