Yupaichani

While I never thought it was possible, leaving Pulingui was tough…  

Looking back on my first few days in the campo, I was sure that my return trip to KC would be much sooner than I had thought. I think they would call this “textbook culture shock”… Bucket showers, outhouses, dung, and fleas were not enjoyable in the least, but after all the obstacles and uncomfortableness what is left are some of the most genuine memories from my time in Pulingui.

My fondest memories were of my nightly conversations with Paula. My host mother was so proud of her community, culture, and language that every evening while cooking dinner she would give me Quetchua lessons and share stories of her people. While my Quetchua is subpar (I can really only say “good morning”, “thank you”, and “chicken”), it is incredible to have been given the opportunity to learn an indigenous language from a true, indigenous, Quetchua woman. (Don’t worry, even though I don’t remember it all, I wrote it down and I will be teaching Quetchua lesson upon my return… first lesson: Yupaichani = gracias = thank you)

On our final evening in Pulingui the entire community came together to celebrate us and wish us off...this was our final humbling encounter, as they each went around individually and thanked each of us for help. Next was our turn, and as we each thanked our families for such an amazing experience each of us gringos cried a few gringo tears.

From the bucket showers to the special moments I had learning Quetchua, our time in Pulingui was an emotional rollercoaster, and after all the culture shock wore off it was one of the most life changing experiences I have ever had.

I am forever changed after two weeks in the campo… washing off all the donkey dung I definitely scrubbed off a little of my diva-ness… Can’t wait to what my next adventure brings.

Lots of love from Ecuador,

Jen