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We've started our Spanish classes in Peru, which is why we haven't posted in a while (that, and we don't have internet capability at our homestay)! We've also been busy studying. In comparison to the physical challenge of the Inca Trail, the process of learning a new language has been far more demanding and humbling.
Fairplay is an organization that empowers single mothers by providing them with the skills to instruct students in Spanish classes. We spend 8-10 a.m. individually with our grammar teachers (Maritsa & Anna) and 10 a.m.-12 noon individually with our practical teachers (Nayut & Marta) as they take us out into Cusco to try out our new learnings. By the end of class, we're ready for a siesta!
Our experience in Cusco has shifted, from that of tourist, to living among the local people outside of the touristy center. We're living in the home of a multi-generational Spanish-speaking family. They are so kind. It was quite exciting the other night when we woke up at 11 p.m. and experienced our first ever earthquake tremor (possibly an aftershock from the 6.3 magnitude earthquake just south of Lima?)! It lasted less than a minute, but the earth was definitely rumbling beneath us.
On Sunday, we worshiped with the Lutheran congregation called Talitha Kum. Their pastor is currently studying at Luther Seminary in St. Paul and they have a Peruvian pastor from the Norwegian Lutheran Church filling in during her absence. The congregation is small, and on this particular Sunday, we met about eight women and twelve children. Though small in number, we could feel the spirit moving in the congregation. The first hymn we sang was part of our sending worship at Transfiguration, so we felt right at home (You have come down to the lakeshore/ Tú has venido a la orrilla).
Tomorrow or early next week, we plan to visit Huch'uy Runa, an NGO that teaches street kids skills for life. Evidently there are more than 5000 kids in Cusco on the street, so the need is great. More on all of this later...
Paz, Pablo y Stephanie
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Jenn Herron Hola Pablo y Stephanie! Gracias por su comunicación. Estamos contentos que están aprendiendo a español. nosotros te extrañamos y deseando oír de usted nuevamente. BTW~ I cheated. I used a cool website www.spanishdict.com/translation to translate what I wanted to say just now. I took 3 years of Spanish in high school but, well, remember very little. The best of luck to you both as you immerse into the culture. And how scary about the earthquake tremor- but I guess that's the best way to experience one. Paz y amor (I didn't have to look those up!) God's blessings on your journey and keep in touch!
Dave Burton learning a new language is a challenge but it is definitely rewarding - it is so much fun to really connect with another culture on their own terms
John Hudson Having lived in California for 15 years I can relate to the earthquake feeling as I have experienced several of them first hand. Had one in Los Gatos that was 3.3 put the epicenter was three miles away.
Sherman Coltvet Hi Stephanie and Paul, We are enjoying your pictures and commentary...it's good to see what you're seeing and hear your voices as you travel. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers as you learn Spanish and explore the country of Peru.
Christa Erdmann Beautiful pictures!! Thanks for sharing:)
renee jefferson Envying you but in not a sinful way:) Enjoy!
Marge and Bob Jamieson Your blog brings back so many memories that we experienced in PNG - even a 7.3 earthquake that broke everything loose in our house. Having only Spanish speaking people around you is such a good way to learn. Blessings!
Ed Who is preaching this Sunday? Sure miss you!!