Swiper no Swiping

Have you ever felt like you were in a live version of Dora the Explorer?  If you haven´t I am disappointed and a bit sad for you because that´s exactly how I felt at yesterday´s excursion!  A few of the volunteers, one of my friend´s from Quito, and I went white water rafting.  There are times during my journey that makes life feel so surreal.  Take yesterday for example-there we were being instructed on how to properly paddle the boat, avoid potential dangers, and swim safely to the shore.  As I was looking around all I see are the characters from Dora the Explorer!!   There´s Diego guiding the raft, Swiper the fox is up on the hill top watching us go down stream marking his move, Boots is paddling his ass off, Backback is clutching onto Tico like there´s no tomorrow, and I on behalf of the U.S.A. represented a generic version of Dora.  Holy macerel!  I couldn´t believe the sights that my eyes beheld on our journey down the rio Verde!!  I am pleased to announce that the trip was spectacular.  Hoovering inside the rio with the mountains and beautiful country side to our right and left was well worth the price we paid for admission.  Now, this being a South American rafting trip we of course had a Ecuadorian shuffle.  Going directly from point A to point B just simply doesn´t exist in this region of the world.  However, having 3 breaks every ten minutes is a part of this shuffle.  My arms hardly had the chance to become tired with all of the breaks incorporated on this trip.  After the third break I just went with the flow and started floating down stream keeping a watchful eye out for Swiper.  After all he is always on the move!!!  While these last two weeks have been extremely challening in terms of adapting to a new culture, food, environment, and language I have ample opportunities to learn.  Today´s lesson is slowing down and surrendering into acceptance. In the mean time I will keep my ears open and my eyes peeled waiting to hear those three importante words, ¨"Swiper no Swiping!"  My love to all.....