One of the few good things about leaving Ecuador is that the friends give you a fun party and one last chance to improve your latin dance moves. It wasn't a goodbye party, just a "so glad you came and we will see you when you come back, which better not be too long" party. It was a very fun evening with at least 4 kinds of rice! We didn't really have to say goodbye though. We would be seeing everyone a few days later in Quito for the English Special Assembly Day. We spent our last day in Cuenca eating at our favorite restaurant, seeing the history museum and ancient ruins and packing last minute things.
Thursday morning we headed to Banos. Lasse, a brother from Denmark, drove us in his car. We were so happy that we didn't have to take the bus. Banos is known for it's waterfalls and thermal baths. We spent 2 days there, hiking, eating, and sitting in the baths. It was a great break from the city. On one of our hikes we came across a very elderly Ecuadorian woman who lived in a tiny little house up in the mountain. Her husband hiked down to Banos every day to work (about an hour) and she hadn't been there for many years, because of her health. We asked her if she had a bible, but she said she couldn't read. She did say she prays to God every day. Austin translated for us and we were able to give her some encouragement by quoting scriptures to her. She was very sweet and a a good reminder of how much we have spiritually and materially.
Saturday morning we headed for Quito, but decided to take the long scenic route through the jungle. The roads in Ecuador have greatly improved in the last few years, so it made for a smooth trip. Lasse said the day could have only been made better by driving a mini cooper through the fresh paved, curvy jungle roads. All in all, it was a stunning drive.
 |
| ancient ruins in Cuenca |
 |
| The cake Sister Salazar made for our party. |
 |
| Dancing with the friends |
 |
| View of Banos after hiking 1 hour. |
 |
| Our new friend. |
 |
| Twins! |
 |
| My bible study Patricia and her daughter Dayana |
 |
| One of our favorite families, the Salazars |
 |
| Quito Assembly Hall |
 |
| Outside the Hall |
We finally made it to Quito. The Assembly was bittersweet. We were able to see everyone we had met in our 3 months, met even more friends, but then had to say goodbye to all of them. What a whirlwind of emotions!
