After landing at Cusco, and being met by Alex (the volunteer coordinator), we got three taxis before arriving in Urubamba. This was no mean feat since it was Fathers' day, so there were very few collectivos about!

Urubamba is a relatively compact town in a beautiful glacial valley, but has a population of several thousand. The roads are generally unpaved, but there are a couple of squares that are planted with colourful flowers that are lovely to sit in, amongst the buzzing bees. Our house is lovely and just a few minutes walk to school, although we only have water for a few hours most days. Periodically the doors of the kitchen burst open to reveal a grubby little toddler with a huge grin on his face! He's called Marco, the son of the maid from next door, and we all spoil him something rotten!

Arriving at school each morning is pretty time consuming, as everybody wants a kiss, a cuddle, to ask how you are etc. This includes the teachers! Everyone is sooo nice, the children are so cute, despite pretty horrific circumstances in some cases, and we have all been made to feel really welcome. There are three classes, although the oldest group aren't in the classroom much, as they are learning to do different jobs, and are, for example, responsible for feeding the horses, helping younger children, or assisting in the kitchen with the fantastic Luisa (her lunches are always yummy!). In the afternoon there are various workshops such as arts and crafts or drama which are a good laugh. I was a "burrio intelligente" (an intelligent donkey) after eating lots of libros (books) in a play the other day!!

On Thursday there was a big fiesta in the town, which included everyone marching. All the schools in Urubamba all paraded in their smartest uniforms. Our kids were no exception and they marched spectacularly in front of the mayor and all the crowds - goosestepping no less! - the most able holding the flag and battons (with white gloves of course), and the rest in perfect lines behind them. Even after knowing them for just a few days, I felt so proud of them all, they are truly amazing! There were also groups of builders in their hard hats, farmers in their ponchos etc. and the whole day was a fantastic atmosphere.

Have started Spanish lessons with the ever patient Natalie, which are great fun, and usually dissolve into the latest gossip by the end of two hours! We have also had our first salsa lesson with Ellie (a teacher at the school) in a local gringo bar, as a croud of locals peered in the door for a good laugh!!

We are currently planning our first weekend away, as we have four days off due to the ongoing fiesta...