Settling in, stocking up, and adjusting to the altitude.
Our first view of Cusco — beautiful and bright, high in the Andes.
After an uneventful journey, we finally arrived in Cusco. The city greeted us with its thin, high-altitude air — beautiful but definitely an adjustment! We spent a couple of quiet days getting used to the elevation and learning a few practical survival rules: no brushing teeth with the tap water and absolutely no toilet paper in the toilet.
On Saturday, we met up with Vincente and Mickey and learned that the other doctor had cancelled just two days ago. That meant Ric and I were the only overseas members of the team — and I was the only doctor. A little daunting, but also a reminder that God’s plans don’t always match ours, and He equips those He calls.
We were so happy to see Vincente again — our team lead and the heart behind so much of what we do here. His passion is helping provide wheelchairs for those who need them, and his energy and organization keep everything running smoothly. Whether he’s packing the van, sorting logistics, or making sure we have every supply, he does it all with quiet determination and a servant’s heart. He truly is a hardworking man of God, and it’s inspiring to see how much he gives of himself for others.
Meeting Vincente, Mickey, and Wilma — our wonderful cook for the week.
We left our luggage at the hotel and set off with Vincente and Wilma. (We met Wilma back in March — she’s a wonderful woman with the warmest smile and the most amazing food.) Our first stop was Plaza Real to get Claro SIM cards, then on to the supermarket where we met Mickey and Wilma again. We bought a few small things, and then headed to a warehouse-style store to stock up on supplies for the coming week’s Extreme Project — lots of food and essentials for the team.
Back at Real Plaza, we stopped for lunch. The plate that arrived was a true feast: chicken, pork, guinea pig, beef heart, gizzards, and tongue! I stuck to the chicken and pork, while Ric bravely sampled a few more items.
Lunch was… an adventure! I kept to the chicken and pork, while Ric was much braver.
After lunch, we wandered around the mall for a bit — not much to see, but we did find a tape measure. No luck finding Animal Crossing Crocs, though!
The rest of the afternoon was quiet. We relaxed in our room until dinner, then went out to a small, cozy restaurant where I had chicken in a croissant — delicious. Back in the room, we tuned in to the Blue Jays game (they lost), then I took a shower. Unfortunately, the bathroom had a bit of a smell, and to top it off, when I went to dry my hair, I forgot to switch the voltage. My hair dryer went up in smoke — literally. Boo. Off to bed with wet hair, grateful for rest and a new day ahead.
Reflection
Today reminded me that mission work begins long before the “work” itself — it starts with patience, flexibility, and trust. Even when plans change or little mishaps happen, God’s hand is steady. I’m grateful for safe travels, for the team He’s brought together, and for the days ahead that He’s already prepared.