April 2015
My
parents arrived in Ecuador April 2nd. Since they came just in time
for holy week my host family was very enthusiastic to have them try ‘finesca’,
the traditional ‘Easter’ soup made from twelve grains (one for each of the 12
apostles). Both of my host families were so hospitable; in the few short days
we were in my city we had countless different lunch/dinner invitations. I think
that my parents were truly shocked at how big these family reunions generally
were- but I explained to them that this is just how the culture is. Ecuadorian
people LOVE to entertain. A dinner to meet their exchange student’s parents is
easily turned into every distant uncle, cousin, friend and neighbor all invited
to an ‘open house’ of sorts. An open house without an end time, and where no
food was actually organized. But in the Latin culture such details aren’t so
important. As long as there is a full bottle of wine, music, and plenty of
hands to cook (whatever they can scavenge from the fridge) it’s a party!
I
had such an amazing time with my parents here; I was so proud to be able to
show them this country that I have come to love so much. Even more, it was
incredibly rewarding to be able to put my language skills to the test! I was
nervous at the prospect of being a translator (both linguistic and cultural)
but it all went relatively smoothly! From explanations of flora, fauna and
history with our tour guides to traditional recipe exchanges between my moms I
was able to successfully navigate through it all. However, at the end of the
week my mind felt like Jell-O and I refused to translate anymore political
questions for my brother.
I
know that some of my friends didn’t want their families to come and ‘interrupt’
their exchange years. But, for any future exchange student, I would highly urge
that, if it is within their means, they organize a family visit. The eight days
that my family was here were a whirlwind, but without a doubt one of the most
rewarding experiences of my whole exchange.
Con mucho cariño,
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