Manchay

I had the opportunity to go to Manchay this weekend (a 1.5hr trip).  I visited a mini community centre that has been set up by a local NGO.  They offer sports, English classes, music lessons and a reading circle.  They had me jump right in and teach an English class (!) I can't think of anything I'd rather do on a Saturday. 

Chirimoya

Best. Fruit. Ever.  Tastes like strawberry, pineapple, and peach...and kind of marshmallow-y.  This is the Chirimoya (Cherimoya in English).  Its name comes from the Quechua word for "cold seeds" because they grow at high altitudes. 

Pachacama

I had the opportunity to attend a team-building retreat with my fellow volunteers.  Best parts were eating the fresh bread that was baked for us every morning (see clay oven) and wandering off to find a horse and this cool wooden statue thing.