May 5th will be my 65th day in Peru and my 110th day in South America. Eighty-seven more days! While there are many things I LOVE about Peru (the food, the helpful and amiable people, plazas and parks abound...), I'll be honest -- after halfway point, there are definitely things I miss from home. Obviously, I'm looking forward to spend time with my friends and family, but the things that I dream about are the little things, the routine, the lifestyle.
Working out regularly. A couple days a week of moving dirt is okay, but it does not come close to spending 45 minutes with Chalene Johnson five days a week. Oh, what I would give for TurboFire!
Vegetarianism as an attainable and acceptable option. Peruvian food is probably the tastiest in the world but not necessarily the healthiest (lots of chicken, white rice, and french fries). I enjoy every bite (well, except for intestines, goat, chicken feet...), but let's just say I don't necessarily love what it does to my GI system.
Drinking tap water. Buying water and running out of potable water is annoying. I have become less and less careful with the tap water. I use it brush my teeth, rinse my mouth, cook food, "wash" fruits and vegetables. So far, so good.
My full wardrobe. It's vain, I know. I just really like my clothes... every single article. Plus, I like the variety and doing laundry in mass quantities less often rather than in small quantities every few days.
Driving. If you know me really well, you're probably shocked. Why? I don't like to drive. I prefer someone else to drive. But, do you know what the ability to drive gives me? FREEDOM. I miss going where I want, when I want. I do a lot of waiting here... waiting for a companion, waiting for a taxi, waiting for the combi. It's probably a good lesson in patience and reliance. Good lessons are just not always easy lessons.
Reliable schedules and punctuality. Again, I do a lot of waiting. See above...
I'm not complaining. Well, yes. Yes, I am complaining. My complaints are honest and with the intent to express myself so that you, my supporters, are able to better support me in prayer. With that said, thanks! For your prayer and words of encouragement. See you in 88 days. :)
