blog 12

My initial perceptions of my host family have changed in several ways. For example, when I first arrived, i cringed at the idea of putting ingredients such as noodles and vegetables in an omelet. However, after having an omelet each day for breakfast, I have gotten used to the taste and overcome the resistance to trying the omelets. I have also learned the “science” behind trying new foods. I discovered that the key to trying new foods is accepting that the food may be different than what I am used to eating, but that is the whole concept behind a new food. Whenever my host family makes something new, I don’t even think about what I am trying. I just dive into the dish, leaving any pre-judged assumptions behind. I also learned that it is okay to not like certain foods. I am only human, and it is perfectly normal not to have an appetite for certain foods. As long as I am respectful and open minded about the process of trying new foods, there is no shame in not liking certain foods.
Another initial perception that has changed is the “horror” of not having a car to ride in. When i first arrived, I was almost devastated at the fact that I was going to have to walk everywhere I go; unless I took a taxi. However, on the first morning of class, I understood perfectly why my host family doesn't have a car--it’s almost impossible to drive a car in Ecuador. In other words, the traffic was so congested that it was almost faster to walk; in fact, it was.


Today, I was able to help the children at Ñeque mas Ñeque make crafts for their parents/guardians. For example, the kids were making lions out of paper. I had to cut all the pieces out. My gosh! It was a tedious process to use the safety scissors. It was near impossible--well, it was possible, just tedious. After cutting out all the pieces, I got to give the gifts to the kids. It was a wonderful feeling to  see their smiles on their faces. I also got to help the children do their homework. It was a flashback to kindergarten; helping the kids count. But, it was a reward I will never forget. I love the feeling when I help others.

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