Arequipa, Peru...

Plaza De Armas

Right about now I'm wondering what has happened to me in Peru? I've changed and grown as a person that much is true...but...it's something more than that.

 I've found a peace so bone deep in my soul that it's hard to describe...I feel like this Peru could be my heaven here on earth...I feel like I belong here..Maybe that's why my steps have lead me here?

 Is this crazy to feel and think that way? I mean after all I have only been here less than two weeks! Is it possible to fall in love with the people and this place in such a short amount of time? I have asked God to give me peace and a purpose in this life...could Peru be that purpose and peace?

Victoria and Diana two beautiful souls...

Here in breathtaking Arequipa, Peru I have met Hector's mother Victoria and sister Diana and they welcomed me into their home with open arms. They both seemed genuinely pleased to meet me.  They are both remarkable women and I have grown to love them in the short time I'm here.

Victoria is such a giving, sweet soul, I don't think she would ever say an unkind word about anyone. She has spoiled me rotten since I have been here and that has made me feel very special.

Now Diana is the sister of my heart! She is sassy, sweet, goofy, strong willed and we have soooo much fun together.  I understand why Hector loves them so much it's easy to do.



Santa Catalina

 The Sky is a brilliant blue here and surround by the awe inspiring snow capped volcanic peaks named El Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu, you feel like the hand of God must be on this magnificent place.

It's a charming place called the white city because the historic city is made almost entirely of sillar a porous, white volcanic stone. It was founded in 1540 and is the second largest city in Peru, it has colonial churches,mansions, splendid Plaza and a picturesque 16th century convent named Santa Catalina.

They also have a museum Santuarios Andinos which holds an astounding local discovery, a perfectly preserved Inca maiden sacrificed more than 500 years ago.

Her name is Juanita and I went to see her. Juanita was only discovered in 1995 by Dr. Johan Reinhard a national geographic explorer.

Diana took me exploring and we saw all those sights and more. She introduced me to frozen cheese, which in American terms is homemade ice cream! Yummy! I have sampled all the foods from Lima to Arequipa and so far have not found anything I won't eat.



 

View from the Convent

Diana and me at the Mill



My favorite picture of Arequipa...



 Diana and I had a enjoyable time, we crammed as much fun as we could into our hectic day! We saw Plaza De Arms,Yanahuara and some churches. I ate stuffed peppers Arequipa style  for dinner and I found I have a weakness for them, they were delicious!

The whole day was delightful... I wish I didn't have to depart this glorious place, but tomorrow I will...I adore this country and its people, tomorrow will be a incredibly heartrending day for me... I know I will be back because I'm leaving part of my heart here...I know it's in the safe, loving hands of Hector's family and the Peruvian people...

 Victoria's garden

You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving...

- Amy Carmichael