We planned this trip around our goddaughter Shina Tayanta's baptism. We settled on a three week trip so that we would have time to help with preparations for the baptism and party. We would fly on weekends and I would work remotely on weekdays, which meant that we could take this entire 3 week trip without using any of my precious vacation days from work.
Unfortunately, the kids' mother Aida would not be present at the baptism. She is currently working with her boyfriend Rolando in Chile. The kids' grandparents, Antonio and Rosa, are caring for them in her absence.
- Airport
The family meets us as we arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito - P1080001
The family meets us as we arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito - P1080004
The family meets us as we arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito - P1080029
Craig playing with the piglets. Our little piglet friend from last time is now much bigger. I notice the growth most in his head and in particular his snout. He is still a sweetie and lays down for me to pet his tummy. But he is now a father! Two months ago, he and Juanita the female pig had 7 piglets! They are adorable, running all around the property and getting into plenty of trouble. - P1080038
Shina eating breakfast - P1080039
Breakfast - P1080053
Abuelita (Antonio's mother) in her outdoor kitchen. She prefers to live via the old traditions, cooking over a fire and sleeping on the floor on a tortora reed mat. - P1080056
Going for a walk to the Morochos community center - P1080057
Rosa's niece Delia and 6 month old daughter Kelly - P1080066
At the community center, we ran into Rosa's niece Delia and her husband. We recognized their 4 year old daughter Ashley, and also met their 6 month old daughter Kelly. We played with them for a while, and when we walked home, Ashley accompanied us. She played with blocks with the kids and really warmed up to Craig quickly, seeking his approval for everything she built. It was so cute! - P1080062
- P1080078
Playing with the new puppy Cachupin He had greeted us last night when we arrived. We noticed the absence of Max, the senior dog, but had hoped that he was just sleeping somewhere. But this morning we learned the sad news that several months ago, he left, presumably to die, and has not returned. He has been a part of the family since we first met them in 2010. His loss is tangible, but he lived a good life and never suffered. - P1080092
Piglets eating lunch - P1080094
Our little piglet friend is now much bigger. I notice the growth most in his head and in particular his snout. He is still a sweetie and lays down for me to pet his tummy. But he is now a father! Two months ago, he and Juanita the female pig had 7 piglets! Here Abuelita checks him for ticks. - P1080104
Abuelita