Marcela's June 2016 Visit

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One of the most special people in our lives is Marcela, Annika's nana from Quito. Marcela raised Annika from the time she was 7 weeks old until we left Ecuador a year and a half later. And I literally mean "raised" and not just "cared for." She is simply one of the most loving and incredible people we have met, and we feel blessed that she has been a part of our lives. Marcela is an ideal role model for our daughter. She is patient, kind, honest, and fun; she values family, exercise, health, and being outdoors. And every day she imparts these values on Annika.

Of course, we begged Marcela to come to Bogota with us, but she politely declined as her family in Quito is too important to her. Still, we take advantage of her proximity and willingness to travel, and it is a treat for all three of us when Marcela is able to visit. Marcela came to spend time with Annika during her 3-week summer vacation...and we loved documenting this very special time for the both of them.

To view the entire album, click here.

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Random Saturday

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When living in another country, sometimes you have to find things that remind you of home.  Bacon egg and cheese on a cinnamon bagel, almond croissants, and having some fantastic friends are just some of the things we found here in Quito that remind us of home.  

Countdown to our next post begins and we will surely miss this place and our great friends.



Parque Metropolitano

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Today Julia, Suzan, and I took advantage of Parque Metropolitano, a park in Quito roughly 10 minutes away - no traffic what so ever! The park has some nice views of Quito and Cumbaya and is large enough to get away from the crowds. A lot of folks walk their dogs here so if people/dog watching is of interest, this is the place. At one point we even saw a cow grazing underneath the native eucalyptus trees. Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

Izta-Popo National Park

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I had been wanting to go to Paso De Cortes ever since hearing about it in a documentary. It is a mountain pass between Popocatépetl and Ixtaccíhuatl volcanoes, roughly 11,000 feet above sea level, and the path through which Herman Cortes and his army marched to Mexico City. Julia and I with some friends headed to Parque Nacional Izta-Popo for a hike, picnic, and of course to take some photos. Roughly 2 hours from Mexico City, we arrived at Paso De Cortez and the entrance to the park. The view of Popocatépetl spewing smoke, as it is still active, was amazing. After entering the park, we drove north on a dirt road to La Joya where we parked and began hiking at roughly 11,857 feet.  Once we reached 13,235, we decided to turn back to give our lungs a break.  The park provided a great escape from the city life. To view the entire album click here.

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