I am slowly (for my patience in being sick) coming back to life thanks in no small part to the caring staff here at the Hotel Universo. They have been nothing short of wonderful. Raps on my door meant soup, tea, and even electrolytes from the pharmacy. The manager brought in an English speaking friend to communicate my symptoms and whether I wanted them to have a doctor come to see me. This type of concern and unselfish friendship has been our experience throughout Ecuador and Peru. While I am very cognizant of the police escort we received for the first 150 K’s after entering Peru and that poverty breeds bandits and pocket thieves among other problems – the people in general have been so welcoming and kind that we walk with confidence through all the cities and villages we pass through. From the brass band in the back of a pickup truck escorting us as we left Riobamba to the people everywhere cheering us on as we bike past them to the good folks in a small village in Peru pulling our big truck out of the muddy ditch to the truck drivers beeping their horns and giving us the high sign as we meet them on the road. How many truck drivers in our neck of the woods are going to be happy meeting a group of cyclists! And most of all the everyday common occurrences of friendly greetings and polite answers to our gringo questions of how to get here or there. Patience. It’s hard for me when I’m sick but it’s something I see a lot of here.
Another rap on my door. The manager was just here to arrange my bus ticket for tomorrow. She is sending a staff person along to be sure I get on the right bus. I’m really starting to like those raps on my door. I will remember Ayacucho for such kindness.
Tomorrow I will be in Andahuaylas for a rest day. We have 4 more tough days cycling in the mountains before getting to Cusco. I’ll have to decide when I’m ready to ride again since there will be no more raps on my door.
We pray for your speedy recovery. It sounds like you are coming around pretty well. I know you are anxious to be back with team. All the best, Orval
It warms my heart that you are receiving such wonderful care and overwhelming positive regard from the Peruvians especially in the light of all of the headlines of violence and despair in other parts of the world. It’s important to be reminded that goodness does exist and actually does prevail in most places and you have articulated it beautifully…..
Praying for your return to and continued good health!
Thanks Marnie – hi to you and Jim and the girls.
Buck, I am praying that the Lord will enable your body to quickly regain all the strength you had up until the last couple days so you can get back into saddle soon. The way have you have been looked after in Ayacucho during the depths of your sickness is quite wonderful.
Thanks Max, I enjoy hearing from you. Say hi to all for me Better today. Will be in Cusco soon then a side trip to Machu Pichu.
Buck, That’s real good news. Bravo! And I agree heartily–the Andean people are great, even if we can’t say that about all of their dogs….Take it easy for the next couple days. Half days on the bike should be enough until you get your strength back. You will love Cusco. Tom
I agree with TL above…don’t push yourself beyond being able to recover. Take it easy when you get back on the bike. Love Ya
Thanks Robin. I will soon be in Cusco then a side trip to Machu Pichu (sp) which I’m really looking forward to. Say hi to all and thanks for your support. Love you too.