Stephanie's Voice

     'We have been in Ecuador two weeks now. Tonight we are hearing the strains of American show tunes from one of the very fancy houses right north of Sandra's. I must say that is much preferred over the disco thump thumping a couple nights ago from the house south of us along with the screaming youngsters having fun. Fireworks continue to dot the evening as well.
     Last night was WILD with so many fireworks and burning effigies up and down the beach. The weather wasn't super beautiful so the beach wasn't overflowing with Ecuadorians; we were with the English people we've met having a BBQ and had a lovely time. Anna, Andy and Lily who's 7 have lived here for two years. Andy teaches for Cambridge university teaching others how to teach English.
     The issues we have had have made the time a bit bumpy, but we are settling into a routine with Spanish lessons mon wed and fri. Swimming usually twice a day. Procuring food we like and cooking take up more time when central market isn't around the corner and the modern cookware and gadgets are limited.
     We are riding on the neighbors wifi coat tails, so we'll see how long this reliable connection works for us.
     The primary issues have been enough hot water, getting the work completed on the remodel, a work in progress, and slow or no internet. We are not complaining - it had just impacted our ability to get organized.
     The little town of Olón seems pretty typical for the villages along the coast. Many of the locals live in concrete or cinder block houses where they only paint the side that faces the street. Even though their house might have multiple floors, that doesn't mean all floors are actually built out. Few have windows or doors and the furnishings are very modest. I have noticed many a dining table as the fanciest element with the chairs covered in plastic. And, then right around us we are surrounded by very opulent houses with staff to serve their owners with drinks on the beach and keep the place maintained during the non-vacation times.
     The locals are quick to greet you with a smile, so we do try to get our beunos _____ (Dias, tardes and noches) correct. I find myself responding in German often and then realize that's probably even less likely than English for them to understand! We are getting by with simple words and lots of gestures. The language lessons should help us out.
     I believe Paul's posting more pics on Flickr tonight along with a quick blog post.
     We will stay out here on the beach through January, but no longer. We are way the heck out here and want to explore other parts of the country. we have booked a place in Cuenca feb 1-15. Then we will head north to Quito and perhaps make a side trip to the Amazon.
      Please feel free to email us (SPCL.SH@gmail.com) as that is the best way to communicate. You can also text us if your need is more urgent.'

-Stephanie. I used your email because it was full of good info