Cristina, Patricio, and Leo

One reason we decided to take this trip was so that we could spend some time with Cristina, Patricio, and Leo. Cristina was an exchange student who joined us before Christmas of 2006, and she stayed with us until June of 2007. We had quite a time and with us, and she was able to go to a football game in Houston, to New York City (where we saw the play Mary Poppins), to Princeton, and to the cabin. She also participated on swim team and in a play at school. It was a great time. Our first chance to see her was at a restaurant where we had dinner, and it was a glorious reunion. It was so fun to meet Patricio and Leo, and Leo loved his Little Blue Truck and his book we brought him.

The next evening, we went to her house for an amazing several-course meal. I wish I could remember everything we got to eat, but it was all delicious. Fried pork, a delicious tea from the south, vegetables, and dessert. Of course, I remember the desserts - Tres leches, and figs with cheese. She nearly needed to roll us out the door.

We also brought Kansas City Chiefs shirts to Patricio and Leo, a KSU shirt and books to Cristina, and more books to Leo. They seemed to like them . . .

Then Patricio and Cristina drove us to see the lights of Quito which included the statue of the Virgin. It was foggy that night, so the statue was especially ethereal. It was a beautiful evening.