Expedition Live Life : Colombia: Really? All That Happened?

“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” – Neale Donald Walsch

Wow. The last 48 hours have been a blur and cultural explosion. Friday night, Samson and I went down to the Mariscal Sucre area of Quito to have a few drinks before I left time. Even though the night was early, the area was rocking for my standards. It was fun to see the area take on a different persona at night, but it's just not my scene. I like chill, hole in the wall places.

My alarm clock came way too early Saturday to catch my flight. I made it and my connection without any problems. However, my biggest personal challenge came when I determined that I would take the bus into Medellín. Both Jorge (Iris' nephew) and Samson said it was easy. As I was standing in line at immigration I started to panic about what was to come. I didn't mind that the immigration line was long because it was keeping me in my comfort zone. The time came and the exit doors opened and just like that I was thrust into Colombia. And just as Jorge and Samson said, the bus was that easy.

I made it to Jorge's house and was fondly greeted by his family. I had a glass of water, jumped on the internet to let my family know I made it and then we were off to do a whirlwind tour of the center of town. My mind was blown and I was quickly back in my internal panic mode. I was thankful that I was with Jorge or I probably would have gone back home. I was so overwhelmed with the number of people milling around and those trying to sell you something. I think in the two hours, I saw most every fruit, food and product that could possibly be sold. My favorite part was when we came up to a Brazilian martial arts group performing their art in a plaza. I couldn't stop smiling at each of their interpretations. I loved the community feeling.

We called it a day and headed back to Jorge's grandma's house, which is where I'm staying. Mariella is such a sweet lady, just as her daughter Iris is. She said her house was my home for as long as I needed and quickly got me food and juice. After I got settled in, I did as I normally did- ask for the wifi password. Bam! She didn't have internet! My panic set in again. Jorge was sweet to take me back to his house so I could let my family know that I'd be off the grid until I figured out a SIM card.

Today, Jorge, his mom, Olivia (exchange student) and I traveled a few hours away to Guatapé. We climbed up the Guatapé Rock, which was over 700 steps to the peak. We were wiped, but the views were worth it. This little town was fantastic. It was on a set of finger lakes and the buildings were bright and colorful, with architectural uniqueness. After walking around for a while, we went on a boat cruise of on one of the lakes. Across the lake, you could easily see the cruise boat that sank a few weeks ago, tragically killing 7 people.

As we headed back to Medellín, we stopped in another little town named San Antonio. Their main square was full of street vendors selling all kinds of delicious smelling food. We passed through, looking for Postres San Antonio. This place is known for their cheesecakes, having over 30 flavors. I chose the Neapolitan with mora sauce (blackberry) and it was fantastic!

All in all, these 48 hours have had such highs and lows for me emotionally. I miss my family and friends and I miss knowing my way around. I'll know I'll figure it out and get through it. It's just going to take time.

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