Ever felt you were at the center of it all... Well this summer Savannah took 20 students to the midd

JOURNAL:

Estamos aquí! Buenos días desde Quito! Quito is absolutely breathtaking from 9,935 ft above sea level

"No hay libertad sin desobediencia". The views totally make up for the fact that I can't breathe at all.

We made it to the middle of the world!!! We got to see how chocolate is harvested and made, the Incan process for shrinking heads, learned how to balance an egg at the equator and said hello to some furry friends.

Had the most amazing day in Otavalo today. From the volcano, to the cooking class preparing traditional Pachamanca in the ground to celebrate the solstice and Inti Raymi, to the music lessons from a palm flutist, to dancing along to street celebrations and a fabulous birthday. This is my second time celebrating Inti Raymi in South America and it's just absolutely amazing.

Yesterday we had the honor of teaching English and learning the indigenous language Quechua at an education campus in Imbabura. Our students immediately started playing, chasing students and talking with the children as soon as we walked in the door. I was beyond impressed by their eagerness and excitement to serve. The Director of the School presented us with a fruit offering in celebration of Inti Raymi. We even danced a little! I am so blessed to be here, but being here with 3 of my own @dukeellingtondc students is icing on the cake!

Great time completing the service learning portion of our trip to Imbabuba. It 100% does not help baby fever playing with my little buddies that loved playing in my hair!

Last night in Otavalo and we spent it walking through the forest to find the most beautiful waterfall.

Today we found ourselves on the equator line again. However it's also at the only volcano in the world where the equator passes through! Then we made "bizcochos" a traditional Ecuadorian biscuit that's vegan!!! So so yummy!

We've spent our last day of service learning in the mountains of Yunguilla. There's only 200 inhabitants in Yunguilla living amongst one of the world's most breathtaking cloud forests! Chef Susanna taught us how to make a local delicacy "llapingachos". I don't want to leave!

Adios Ecuador! One of the many gorgeous countries I've visited!