the more adventurous

we went out with a bang on the Galapagos. We knew times together were quickly coming to an end and with our final behind us after Thursday morning, we went off to finish souvenir shopping and march in a Christmas parade. I gotta admit that part was weird, I was in a tank top and shorts, walking next to people dressed like santa claus and reindeer, but what are you gonna do, Feliz Navidad.  We gave San Cristobal quite a send off with fun, friends, and some swamming. The next morning began the tearful goodbyes. A lot of us  (yours truly included) are not good at expressing emotions and are not big criers, but such a happy experience I don't think can pass without a sad farewell. Scott and Sam stayed on the islands to later meet their families for some warm Christmas vacations while the rest of us walked on the tarmac to our awaiting plain. Chao Galapagos.

With the GAIAS program we all had two more nights in Quito, including a farewell dinner Saturday night. We went to the University's gourmet restaurant, Marcus. The food was amazing, but the company, ooohh the company, was some of the best I've ever had. As toasts were being made and meals were topped with a thick salse de laughter I realized that there was so much that I wouldn't be able to explain to other back home about this. We took one last group photo, but the love between these wonderful people won't develop fully in the film. So I guess the only way to take it with you is inside. People will tire of stories starting with, "When I was in the Galapagos..." but the imprint that this time has made will last forever, and I hope everyone that I shared this experience with lets the change be evident and share each great moment we shared in the future moments we have with others.

Not very long ago I couldn't have imagined being in this place, but now I couldn't imagine myself without this place. These friendships were are roses without thorns and I love all of you, lagrimas and all.

"I have been, and always shall be your friend."-Spock