Breakfast was at 7:00, but Sara was up at 5:15 and had already showered before I even opened my eyes. I got up, finished packing, and we headed down for breakfast — fresh bread, scrambled eggs, and good strong coffee. Simple and delicious.
One of the sweetest parts of the morning was reconnecting with Yeni and Fernanda. There’s something special about mission friendships — even when time has passed, you pick up right where you left off. They truly feel like family.
We boarded the bus and began the journey from Arequipa to Chivay, winding along mountain roads that seemed to cling to the hillsides. Our driver was confident — perhaps very confident — especially when passing large trucks on narrow stretches! No wonder Lori reminded us to fasten our seat belts.
The scenery was breathtaking. We spotted vicuñas and llamas along the way, grazing against a backdrop that hardly looks real. A midway rest stop gave us a welcome chance to stretch our legs and catch our breath — literally.
The highest point of the drive reached 5,046 meters (over 16,500 feet). At that altitude, even walking slowly leaves you a little short of breath. Of course, Vicente and Jake decided that was the perfect place to do 10 push-ups — just to prove a point, I suppose!
Arriving in Chivay, we settled into our rooms before enjoying a delicious lunch prepared by Wilma — another familiar and welcoming face. It’s such a gift to return and see the same people serving faithfully year after year.
The afternoon included an orientation meeting and organizing vitamins for clinic days ahead. There’s always a lot of behind-the-scenes work that makes the week possible. Later, we took a walk to a nearby waterfall — a peaceful way to stretch our legs after the long bus ride and soak in the beauty of this place.
After supper, most people headed to their rooms early. Sarah went to bed, and I took the opportunity for a shower before joining a small group to play Skip-Bo. Laughter at the end of a full day is always a good idea.
And then — a very good night’s sleep.
Grateful for safe travels, mountain views, familiar faces, and the start of another meaningful stretch here in Peru.