Hola mis amigos!

Hola! Como estan.
Hi everyone. Its Matt. Just a quick update on the first few days in Ecuador. Christine has already talked about the 2 places we have worked in so far, so I will talk a little bit about what our life has been like down here. First we are each staying with a different family. This is both a blessing and a curse. Its a blessing because we are immersed in the culture and language of the people of Guayaquil. While at home trying to speak in a Spanish is a must, and hopefully after the first frustrating week communicating with those we live with will become easier. Already I find I can talk (in spanish) to my family better than anyone else here. Also you get to see how family life is in Ecuador. Everyday some of my host familys kids or grandkids are over at their house. There is a lot of introductions and kisses on the cheeks, and a ton of little kids running around interested in the tall guy who speaks spanish like a 4 year old. The meals are AMAZING, and consist of a BIG lunch with wonderful soups, meat, and lots of rice. Jeff pointed out to me earlier though, you dont see a lot of steamed veggies of plain salads.

Ayer Fuimos a Malecon dos mil. Subimos millóns de escaleras para ver el faro, y también fuimos a un parque con millóns de iguanas.

Yesterday we went to Malecon 2000 (this is kind of like a boardwalk, with tons of shops, and beautiful walkways and monuments). We climbed a million (more like 400) steps to see a lighthouse, and we also went to a park with a million (well....100) Iguanas.

On our first day Christine and I saw the partido (game) of futbol (soccor) between Ecuador and Argentina. This was a biiiggg game because Ecuador needed to win to stay in contention to go to the world cup next year. It was fun, with a lot of energy! I also learned the hardest word for me to remember in spanish is Goal Keeper (arquero...though i had to ask for the 100 time what it was).

Well thats it for now!!! We will update everyone again soon! Que tengan un buen dia!