I'm Dreaming of a Cuzquenian Christmas

Enjoying some beer at Pub Caleta.
Can you believe I'm a beer drinker now?!

So after a week and a half of teaching (and partying! Peruvians suuuuure know how to party!), I'm off to Cuzco to spend Christmas with my Dad. Christmas in Cuzco. Sounds kind of poetic!

I've actually had a lot of fun in Talara so far. My classes are amazing and I actually look forward to teaching everyday. My students all came up to me and kissed my cheek goodbye and wished me a "Happy Christmas". Some even brought me gifts! So sweet! I won't see my kids until March as they're on their summer holidays now, but the adults will return in January.

Aside from a slight maggot issue in our garbage (Thank God for one of my roommates who decided it was a man's job to deal with gross things like that!) things have been pretty easy going and relaxed this side of Peru. I'm falling into an easy, stress free routine and actually really enjoying it. I'm starting to become less grossed out by things (I picked up a bug with my bare hands! And, on a separate occassion, I found a bug in my bed, got rid of it, and hopped back into bed! That's definitely a first for me!)

Tomorrow I board my third flight in three weeks to head to Lima to meet up with my Dad. Finally, someone I know will be on the same continent as I am! This time, though, Lima can keep it's stupid souvenirs. No more parasites for me, thank you very much! I'm going to do everything possible to ensure my Dad doesn't get any souvenirs, either! One of the things I miss a lot about Canada is not having to be weary about everything I'm eating and drinking. But, it's all part and parcel of exotic travel, I guess.

I'm incredibly excited about Cuzco and absolutely cannot wait to hike the Inca Trail. What an amazing way to bring in the new year!