Ecuador Day 6: The Final Day (Stephanie + Clara)

 A recap of our final day in Ecuador!

Half the group seized the day and took to the trails early for a challenging sunrise hike in the cloud forest region where we were staying. 

  Pretty breathtaking. God is good!

After breakfast, the fellows dispersed around El Refugio’s property (the retreat center that hosted us) to embark on various work projects. 

Gracie and Dharma hung curtains in the new house on El Refugio's property. Look no further HGTV scouts.

Ned and Jacob G. mowed the grass. Look at them go. 

Ian installed an air vent like a pro.

Stephanie fixed cabinets in the kitchen. The sweet smile of success...

Palmer installed lights. 

Haley fixed up some windows!

Will whipped out his welding skills. Pretty cool.

Marley Cate, Hef, Clara, Jacob C. and Noah pounded away at some post holes for a new alpaca enclosure. 

Jacob C. pictured with one of his many conquered roots.

In the afternoon, the fellows enjoyed free time spent reflecting on the week. 

Some of us used this time to hike; there was no shortage of huffing and puffing along the way, but it was more than worth it for the stunning vistas surrounding us on all sides. 

An abundance of eucalyptus trees!

After solo time, we debriefed the week together at the foot of a cross overlooking the lush and misty mountains. We had the opportunity to share what we learned, how we felt encouraged, and the challenges we encountered throughout the week.

Our hosts from Education=Hope prayed over each of us and gave everyone an E=H bracelet. They are the best.

In the evening, we celebrated with a closing feast complete with a bounty of fruits, fresh juices, and skewers of plantains, veggies and meats roasted over an open fire. 

We also tasted the renowned Cui, or guinea pig, a staple of Ecuadorian cuisine. 

Finger lickin’ good.

We ended the evening with a time of affirmation around the fire where we uplifted one another as a group. 

Haley assembled a flower crown from wildflowers around the property that we placed on each person’s head as we affirmed them. It was a special time of reflection and encouragement to finish the week. 

This concludes our series of Ecuador updates! Thank you for following along, and thank you to E=H and all of our hosts. We are so grateful for the opportunity to come and learn from all of you. 

More pictures below!