Lucille's Adventures in Peru Av. Fatima 820, #703, Trujillo, Peru --- www.perumission.org --- "Not all those who wander are lost." J.R.R. Tolkien, Lord of the Rings

Last night we sailed to Puerto Ayora. We were greeted with a GORGEOUS sunrise! I am so sad it is my last day! I've loved boat life. The first thing he said when we got on the boat was take off your shoes. We don't wear shoes on the boat. Oh I have arrived home! No shoes and it is required. my kind of place. Anyway, back to today. The sunrise was incredible. And it shone over Puerto Ayora. We left the boat after breakfast on a dingy. I was with the 6 that we joined on the boat. We were all ending our trip here today. So, we were met by Bolivar, a new guide to take us through the Darwin Research center and then to Baltra for the flight home. It was soooo hectic with him. I was ruffled all morning because I had been ripped from my laid back island/boat life to the hustle and bustle of the world. It is so unfair! Oh well, I got to see the giant land tortoises. My last thing I really wanted to see. At first I was disappointed because it was very zoo like, looking at them behind walls after we'd been up close and personal all week. Then we went down into their living area and walked around. It was great! I loved it. They are so huge and yes, move so slow. . . . I know, they are a turtle, what do you expect? but to watch it! oh my. And they are huge and so old! It was really cool to see them. But then it was off to a bus, and then a ferry and then a bus and then the plane back to Quito. I did manage to power shop in 15 minutes at the airport and buy a souvenir and mail some postcards! And then back to Quito. The Galapagos Islands did not disappoint. I was just sad to have only 4 days. But it was the only trip I could fit in between 12/26 and 1/2, so better than nothing! I am not sure I've still digested it all. I don't think the pictures or words can ever do it justice. It was awe inspiring. I am so glad I came! And now to celebrate the new year Ecuadorian style!