We arrived early to set up chairs, decorate the walls, and do any prep work we could. Celeste gave me her camera for the event and I attempted to be a photographer - she will have to let you know how that went! I believe the photos will go up on the Manos Unidas Facebook page. The inauguration itself started with the national anthem, had multiple speeches from professors, the founders, and a traditional Incan ritual with the breaking of a pot full of chicha.
There are three programs for students within this new location: one for adolescents 13-17 y.o, one for young adults 18-25 y.o, and one for students with severe disabilities. The adolescent program focuses on activities of daily living like laundry, cleaning, making the bed, toiletries, self-care, etc, as well as social skills and prevocational skills. The young adult program targets housekeeping, restaurant services, sustainable gardening, and looks to incorporate livestock care in the future. Intentions of this program are for students to gain skills for a job that will support sustainable living. The final program for students who have severe disabilities gives a place for them to continue their studies and improve social and life skills.
With the explanations provided, speeches given, and Incan ritual completed. We all toasted with wine and made sure to serve Pacha Mama (Mother Earth) first. Following the good cheers, we toured the grounds, rooms, and were served a snack at the cafe by some of the current students.
Our tour guide for the weekend met us in the cafe, and then we were off on an adventure to get our tickets changed for Machu Picchu. We could no longer take our original route because of strikes people are throwing. With a long walk to a currency exchange, we stumbled upon Incan ruins that were found under the streets in Cusco as they were being dug up for a construction project. Like the continuation of a dream, we took a quick taxi ride back, packed up, and grabbed a crazy cab ride with all of our bags. We were running red lights, honking to the tune of traffic, and ended up stopping in one spot for ten minutes with a driver insisting he takes us the whole way, only to move 20 ft. When we got out of the car, it was the wrong station with the workers insisting they are the only bus stop in the area. Good thing our tour guide was across the street waving at us from another station!
Our van to Ollantaytambo was comfortable, but the lady trying to book seats was a little insane. She was insisting there were four seats when we had two left in the van, furious to be leaving with open seats, was totally aggressive and asked to calm down by another passenger.
The rest of the ride was smooth.
That's if a smooth ride still includes not following any laws of traffic or lines on the road. :) We made it to our city and the power was out! Recorded another captains log in the dark (I think Corrin has audio of it). The power came back and we explored the town to find alpaca and guinea pig pizza among other things. Then more socks. Liz needed them. Annnnnd a wet floor, flickering light, some unknown bugs, and a few beds later, it was time to sleep.
Alright! Enough. Jessica and Corrin are going to write about Saturday and Sunday. Which were magical, breath taking, and amazing.
I'll get back to you about 9/8/14 adventures soon! Off to a village tomorrow.
All my love,
Catey Lynne
No comments:
Post a Comment