Next up was Ecuador for a month. We arrived in Cuenca, a charming Spanish colonial city of 331,888 in southern Ecuador. It looked promising. A moderate climate, inexpensive housing and not too many expats. (Although we overheard more English here in three days than we had in the past seven weeks in Chile.) It also had a university, plenty of interesting cafes and was overflowing with history.
Then, the warning signs arrived. Our hotel suffered a series of plumbing disasters. I wasn’t adjusting well to the altitude and developed a painful cough. We found out a close family member in the US was seriously ill. I left my perfect Smartwool jacket on the jerking, swaying bus crossing the twisting mountain road to Guayaquil. The bus station there, all 242,782 square feet of it, completely overwhelmed us. Finally arriving in Olón, it was loud, crowded and ugly. Our cell like hotel room was stifling.
Thanks Anna!
We’re all on a journey – it’s not a matter of miles but of mindset.
You are a wonderful example of how to live a rich life in your own backyard.
love,
Jo Ann
I love that you are sharing the journey with all is non-travel types. It is true that flexibility is the key and that not being stuck on a particular unfoldment is how we can be good with impermanence and allowing what is to come. It is quite grand to be human and have these realizations. Each persons path may look very different but as the quote goes, “we’re all here walking each other home” Bon Chance Mes Amis!!
Love,
Anna
This is so great! Love that you are writing and sharing your adventures in living fully. It’s true, when you take the step the bridge will appear. Will anticipate more of your stories and experiences of places and how they have shaped you. Thank you and Blessings on this path of opening your life and sharing wisdom.
Thanks! It’s been a wonderful adventure creating a way to share our stories. You’ve helped me more than you’ll ever know on my journey. Thanks for being a constant and inspiring friend!
Wishing you every joy,
Jo Ann
I love this! I think it’s time for a change of plans for me too. I recognized I was annoyed by the smallest request at my job and while it seemed like it was perfect for me 2 years ago (on paper it was), it just doesn’t work for me anymore. So…I’m leaving at the end of June. What comes next, who knows?!
I love you guys and I’m so excited you started this – looking forward to reading more!
Thanks Jenna – great to hear from you and happy you found the article helpful. Keep us posted on your progress and where you end up. You are already living fully – congratulations!
love,
Jo Ann