Perú...we love you!: Palta=Avocado

Avocado is not "aguacate" here in Peru as many may have learned in Spanish class. It's "palta" here. And Adam is a big fan. Per Adam:

"Palta is more money to me than money is…."

Good thing, because as we enter the rainy and slower touristy season of Ollantaytambo, prices are starting to drop for the most tasty of items available. Just a few days ago, I was thrilled to pay 1 sol for a large pineapple, or about 30 cents. Whoa. This makes Whole Foods look absolutely impossible to us right now.

We are continuing to settle into our home. Again saw a scorpion, but with finesse, we got it out unharmed. We are getting better at handling these things that we never thought we'd be doing in a million years.

Adam is feeling a lot better, and Brooke is staying healthy.

Recently, we went to Qoya and spent some time in Pisac, where we met up with Brooke's host mom from her time in Peru last year as well as the Shaman with whom she worked last year. Very great to see them again.

Tonight, we are looking forward to cooking at Peruvian-style 4 cheese Mac & Cheese, which we are so excited about. We like enjoying dinner with friends.

Of note, Adam hiked up to the "Sun Gate" which was about a 7-hour hike to and from Ollanta. It was a ritual center used by the Incas and it has some human bones up there such as leg bones and a few skulls. Crazy.

This weekend, we hope to do some fun things that are on the active side and perhaps even go to Cusco.

We will update you as we go and much love to all.

My health promotor from Huilloc, Teresa, reviewing materials on nutrition before presenting at her general assembly (monthly community meeting)

One of Adam's many wonderful culinary creations

One of our favorite meditation points overlooking the town (shaped in the form of a tree (of life) easily distinguishable from above) on top of Incan ruins. Not a bad way to start the day!

Unexpected flood at Mayapata, our favorite pizza place in town

They were nice enough to save us from the flood! Peruvians are

Meal with soymeat from Pisac and local "Pilsen" beer last night complete with Trader Joes smoke seasoning. Horray! We're getting better at preparing food with no fridge!