Quito, Ecuador: The center of the world

Quito, Ecuador: The center of the world

After bidding farewell to the vibrant streets of Colombia, our journey led us to the enchanting city of Quito, Ecuador.

Our accommodations in Quito were nothing short of extraordinary, as we found ourselves nestled within a rare and fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site that once housed the former president of Ecuador. This historic building, aged 170 years, was full of charm and character, boasting quirky artifacts and offering breathtaking views of the city.

Our arrival in Quito coincided with a special occasion — Evey’s 4th birthday! What better way to celebrate than by immersing ourselves in the rich culture and history of this captivating city? Our exploration began in the heart of the old town, where we marveled at the awe-inspiring architecture of the Church of the Society of Jesus.

Little did we know that our visit would lead us to a hidden gem — a secret tunnel that transported us to the church’s roof, where we serenaded Evey with heartfelt renditions of “Happy Birthday” against the backdrop of spectacular views. And when I say “secret” tunnel, what I mean is a very tight tunnel where my giant husband literally squeezed himself through to get to the end. At one point he stuck while trying to pass by another traveler. He shared a very unexpected intimate moment with this traveler as they worked to get unstuck.

Our next stop took us to The Virgin of El Panecillo, a monumental statue that looms over the city. While the statue itself was impressive, our adventure took an unexpected turn when we found ourselves stranded atop the hill, unable to secure a taxi back to the city below. The moment provided yet another opportunity for Jason and I to work on joint problem solving skills without killing each other. We both survived. When we came back to the city, we were more then ready to indulge in some birthday cake and refreshments.

The following day, our exploration led us to The Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, the “Middle of the World City.” Our journey began with a visit to the Pululahua Volcano site, where we were mesmerized by the stunning vistas afforded by this unique natural wonder.

Continuing on to the Middle of the World Monument, we delved into a myriad of fascinating scientific experiments and walked along the equatorial line, straddling both hemispheres simultaneously.

As we savored our late lunch, indulging in the local delicacy of cuy (guinea pig), we reflected on our adventures in Quito and the unexpected twists and turns that had enriched our journey. Despite the challenges, Quito had captivated us with its beauty and charm, leaving an mark on our hearts. Though Quito proved to be a bit more dangerous than expected, we found solace in the warmth and hospitality of the locals, who guided us away from areas of potential danger. As we prepared to bid farewell to Ecuador and return home, we were reminded of the true essence of travel — the joy of exploration, the bonds forged with good friends, and the memories that will last a lifetime. And so, with hearts full of gratitude and spirits brimming with wanderlust, we set our sights on the horizon, eager for the next adventure that awaited us.

Until next time,

Guatapé, Colombia: From Llamas to Lookouts

Guatapé, Colombia: From Llamas to Lookouts

Embarking on a day trip from Medellín to Guatapé, we found ourselves on an unexpected adventure filled with surprises and breathtaking views. The goal was to see one of the largest monoliths in the world, The Rock of Guatapé.

But first our journey began with a pit stop at a quaint little rest area along the way. After perhaps one of the most beautiful drives I have ever experienced, we stopped to stretch our legs and take a bathroom break. But this was no ordinary break. We stumbled upon a hidden gem tucked in the back of the rest area — a full-fledged petting zoo. To our excitement, llamas greeted us, their curious eyes inviting us to interact. Armed with carrots, we delighted in feeding these gentle creatures, their soft noses nuzzling our hands in gratitude.

With spirits lifted by our furry friends, we continued our journey to El Peñón de Guatapé, a towering monolith that beckoned us with the promise of panoramic vistas. Undeterred by the daunting 670 steps that lay ahead, we embarked on the ascent, each step bringing us closer to the summit and the promise of unparalleled beauty. As we reached the top, the world unfolded before us in a breathtaking panorama of azure waters and verdant landscapes, a testament to the natural wonders of Colombia. El Peñón de Guatapé, also known as the Rock of Guatapé, is one of the largest monoliths in the world.

Descending from the heights of El Peñón, we made our way into the colorful streets of Guatapé, self-awarded the most colorful town in the world. Despite our weariness from the climb, we couldn’t resist the allure of this charming town, its lively atmosphere inviting us to explore further.

Yet, as fatigue began to set in, we reluctantly bid farewell to Guatapé, our hearts filled with memories of a day filled with unexpected delights and unforgettable experiences.

Until next time,

Medellín, Colombia: The city of stars

Medellín, Colombia: The city of stars

Our Hills/Auten family Colombian adventure continued on in Medellín where we secured an adorable Airbnb on a sleepy street tucked away in what we learned was a very large bustling city full of excitement.

Three full days in Medellín, and I found myself calling it the ‘City of Stars’ for a reason that became crystal clear as the sun set. The valley was ablaze with the lights of the comunas, making us feel like we were sitting in a bowl full of stars. It was a breathtaking sight that etched the city’s name in my memory.

Even in the day, the city’s rich culture shined as we explored the city’s many museums. The Botero Art Museum was a highlight, featuring the iconic works of Fernando Botero. The larger-than-life Botero statues scattered throughout the museum were a joy to behold, showcasing the artist’s signature style that exaggerates proportion and form for a unique aesthetic.

The Rafael Uribe Uribe Museum stands as a testament to Medellín’s rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a captivating blend of history, art, and breathtaking views. Its stunning architecture, characterized by intricate detailing and timeless elegance, invites exploration and contemplation. As we ascended to the top, guided by the promise of panoramic city views, we were met with a sense of tranquility that enveloped us amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life below. From this vantage point, the city unfolded before us like a vibrant tapestry, each street and building telling a story of Medellín’s past and present. It was a moment of serenity amidst the chaos, a chance to pause and appreciate the beauty of the city from a new perspective.

At Parque Explora, a haven for curious minds and adventurous spirits, the boys delved into a world of interactive exhibits that sparked their imagination and ignited a passion for discovery. From the moment they stepped through the park’s gates, they were greeted by a whirlwind of sights and sounds… and DINOSAURS! They excitedly jumped from hands-on displays, from interactive simulations of natural phenomena to mind-bending optical illusions, each offering a unique opportunity to learn through play. As they manipulated levers, pressed buttons, and observed the wonders of science come to life before their eyes, they not only absorbed knowledge but also developed a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the world around them.

Our professional photoshoot at Pueblito Paisa captured the essence of our time in Colombia. Once a year, our family takes time in a foreign county to document our travels with the help of Localgraphers. This is the best way to ensure that I get in the photos instead of always being hidden behind my lens. Pueblito Paisa’s picturesque replica of a traditional Colombian village provided the perfect backdrop for this purpose. We laughed, posed, and created timeless memories that will be cherished for years to come. Our talented photographer, Paola with Aletheia Studio, expertly captured the joy we shared.

We soon found out that Medellín truly comes alive at night. As we stepped into Lleras Park, we were hit strong by the electric atmosphere as bouncers pounced on the chance to bring us into their clubs with promises of VIP service. The adults took turns going out at night, some stumbling back with more interesting stories than others.

The ‘City of Stars’ had cast its spell on us, weaving its magic into the fabric of our hearts and minds. As we bid farewell to Colombia, we carried with us a new set of cherished memories. However, our Hills-Auten epic summer adventure wasn’t quite over yet…

Until next time,

Medellín, Colombia: The resilience of Comuna 13

Medellín, Colombia: The resilience of Comuna 13

Our Medellín adventure unfolded with a visit to Comuna 13 on the first day, an area that spoke volumes about the resilience and spirit of its people. Comuna 13, once synonymous with violence and crime, has transformed into a symbol of resilience and community regeneration. This neighborhood, perched on the hillsides of Medellín, has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, turning adversity into art, hope, and unity. Comuna 13’s troubled past was marked by drug-related violence and gang activities, making it one of the most dangerous areas in Medellin. However, the community’s determination to rise above its circumstances has led to a profound transformation. The government’s investment in social programs, infrastructure, and security initiatives has played a crucial role in the neighborhood’s rehabilitation.

Despite a hiccup with our tour guide meeting location (my bad), we found ourselves navigating the vibrant streets of Comuna 13 independently. The streets were absolutely packed with people, suffering from over-tourism as the area had become a super hot spot in the last few years. Street performers filled the air with energy, and we stumbled upon a rapper who serenaded us with a unique song crafted on the spot. We wandered through tight avenues, sipped on beers and micheladas, collected souvenirs, and marveled at the vibrant graffiti adorning the walls. The kids were delighted with the array of trinkets from the vendors.

Each avenue we turned on took us deeper into the comuna and higher up to where we found amazing views of the entire city. I told our group that there would be escalators to help us climb the hill, but they insisted I was mistaken cracking up at what they thought was my bad Spanish translation. But low and behold, real escalators appeared before us! The escalators were another symbol of transformation, adding innovation into an area plagued with a trouble past.

As the neighborhood has gained recognition for its positive transformation, tourism has played a significant role in promoting cultural exchange. Visitors from around the world now come to witness the inspiring story of Communa 13. Guided tours, like the one we initially planned, provide insights into the neighborhood’s history, art, and the daily lives of its residents. However, our spontaneous exploration allowed us to connect more intimately with the community, revealing the authenticity that permeates every corner of Communa 13. This testament to the power of community, art, and resilience will stay with me forever.

Until next time,

Zipaquirá, Colombia: A Salty Adventure

Zipaquirá, Colombia: A Salty Adventure

Just a short bus ride away from the very busy city of Bogota, is a small treasure of a village called Zipaquirá.

Our adventure began in the heart of the town square, a lively hub buzzing with local energy. Of course the kiddos were immediately captivated by the fluttering pigeons. The E boys felt the need to consistently run through them making them scatter throughout the square annoying Oli as she cared more about gently feeding her new little friends. They were on the quest to spot the random white pigeon in the sea of black pigeons. It may have kept them occupied for hours, but we had a date with a salt cave to get to.

The famous Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, an underground marvel, beckoned us with a promise of unique experience. Although Jason and I were skeptial on the unique part as we had already been awed by the salt caves outside of Krakow, Poland. However, this particalar salt mine was home to a cathedral known to be an architectural masterpiece, showcasing the ingenuity of human creativity in harmony with the natural wonders of the earth. The kids were particularly drawn to the Stations of the Cross, finding the intricate sculptures and the significance behind each one truly fascinating.

As we explored deeper into the cathedral, the salt formations created an otherworldly atmosphere. We paused to indulge in a delightful break, savoring churros and ice cream within the cool embrace of the salt cave. To our surprise, we received a free gift – a salt manicure and some salt crystals to take home, a token of our surreal journey through this underground sanctuary.

Amidst the salt-laden walls, the kids couldn’t resist the urge to lick them at every opportunity, adding a touch of playfulness to the solemnity of the surroundings. The entire cave was a masterpiece of nature and human craft, a beautiful and haunting experience that left us in awe. It was fascinating to realize just how massive the cave was, housing a full shopping center within its salty depths. Unfortunately, time constraints prevented us from exploring every nook and cranny, leaving us with a reason to return for another adventure.

Eager to continue our day of exploration, we headed to a local restaurant, enticed by the promise of delicious local cuisine, refreshing drinks, and the rhythm of a live band. The restaurant, adorned with antiques, provided an extra layer of charm that I couldn’t help but appreciate. Every corner was a treasure trove of cool finds, adding a unique flavor to our dining experience.

Our day trip to Zipaquira was a wonderful blend of culture, adventure, and unexpected delights. The town square, the salt cathedral, the local restaurant – each moment etched itself into our memory, making it a day to remember. On the bus ride home, the kids chattered excitedly about their favorite parts of the trip before passing out in a deep sleep dreaming of the upcoming journey to the city of stars, Medellín.

Until next time,

Bogotá, Colombia: A city of unexpected delights

Bogotá, Colombia: A city of unexpected delights

It had been 5 years since we traveled with our dear friends, the Auten Family. Our last escapade to Spain and Morocco had left us with unforgettable memories. So when Adam sent us a casually worded text asking, “Y’all wanna go to Colombia?” we responded with a quick and equally nonchalant “Yep.” And just like that, we found ourselves reuniting in Bogotá, this time with our small posse in tow.

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to fall in love with Bogotá. Our itinerary allowed for just one day in the city before moving on to what I assumed would be more thrilling adventures. However, Bogotá had a different plan for us, instantly surprising us with its lively atmosphere. Our home base was in Zona Rosa, and it only took a few steps outside our hotel to discover stands brimming with fresh fruit, aromatic coffee, and mouthwatering arepas. It was a delicious introduction to Colombia, courtesy of our breakfast.

Our first Colombian adventure took us to Cerro de Monserrate, an iconic mountain that looms over 10,000 feet above sea level. The majestic mountain is located near the heart of Bogotá. It is one of the most prominent landmarks in the city and holds both cultural and religious significance. Situated in the eastern Andes mountain range, it provides breathtaking views of the entire Bogotá valley and the sprawling city below.

The journey began with what the kiddos would describe as a thrilling ride on the funicular to the summit. The sensation we felt from the altitude was striking, but it also filled us with excitement knowing we were experiencing the grandeur of the Andes. We followed the winding path up to the summit passing the Stations of the Cross and reminding us how sacred the locals hold this pilgrimage. The panoramic views from the summit filled my heart with anticipation, revealing the vastness of Bogotá, a city home to over 7 million people. I’d soon learn that Columbia was much more densely populate then I expected allowing me to see the country in a new light. At the summit, I savored my first beer of the trip, feeling the light-headedness brought on by the high elevation along with the ecstatic feeling of experiencing Columbia in its fullest.

Descending to the base, we couldn’t resist trying some “big ass ants.” Little E sampled one with no hesitation, showcasing his adventurous spirit. As a light drizzle began, we strolled to the nearby La Candelaria district. Here, we spent a couple of hours exploring the Gold Museum and immersing ourselves in Colombia’s vibrant culture, leaving us hungry for more.

The Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) is a treasure trove of history and culture, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of Colombia’s indigenous peoples and their deep connection to gold. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in archaeology, history, or the cultural heritage of Colombia.

During our trip planning, Adam stumbled upon an intriguing TikTok find – a dinner experience and adult getaway at a place called Frenessi. Promising a wild multisensory adventure, we had high expectations, but what we actually experienced exceeded our imaginations. We ate, we drank, we danced, we drank some more, and we allowed ourselves to relax away the weight of parenthood and responsibility even for just a moment. Frenessi encapsulated the very essence of “unexpected delights,” delivering an experience that I can only truly convey through photos. The evening illuminated the city as vibrant, rich, and brimming with delightful surprises. It left me craving more wondering what else the city had hidden.

As we packed up to continue our journey to Medellín, we couldn’t help but wish we’d allotted more time to explore Bogotá. This city had surprised us in the best possible way, revealing its hidden gems and captivating us with its unique charm. While our adventure continued, Bogotá had already earned a special place in our hearts.

Until next time,

El Conquistador Resort, Puerto Rico: A cliffside oasis

El Conquistador Resort, Puerto Rico: A cliffside oasis

After two thrilling days of exploring Puerto Rico’s old town and jungle, we were due for a relaxing break. I had hoped to find a healing presence on the island to help my intense grief from losing my mother earlier in the year. A local Puerto Rican coworker of mine recommended El Conquistador as a family friendly resort full of luxury. It did disappoint.

This was no average beach resort. It was perched on a steep cliffside overlooking the ocean. It had levels of pools and restaurants accessible by panoramic view elevators and funiculars. We stayed at the lowest level right next to the marina. I never have my hopes up for resort food, but everything we tried was delicious. I fell in love with passion fruit mojitos.

The resort had a water park complete with three large thrilling waterslides and a relaxing lazy river. I thought E might fear the water slides, but nope… he fearlessly conquered each one multiple times. He finally convinced me to try to death drop slide, which I instantly regretted the moment my bottom went over the edge. The lazy river was more my speed. Evey was disappointed he couldn’t ride the big slides, but he loved the toddler slide built just for him.

It is odd having an island resort built on a cliff with no beach access, but this resort thought of everything. Each day, a water taxi ferried guests to their private island just off the coast. The water here boasted a perfect turquoise hue, and the gentle waves allowed us to float effortlessly for hours. The food was amazing, and the drinks kept steadily coming. We did have a small storm hit us on the island, but it was short lived and kept us cooled off. We returned to our resort feeling rejuvenated after a blissful day at the beach.

Leaving the island, we carried a sense of relaxation and excitement in our hearts, ready to embrace the forthcoming summer. We are still grieving. We are still hurting. And at the same time, we are allowing ourselves to feel joy and to love our adventures together… sunburns and all.

Until next time,

Yunque National Park, Puerto Rico: Rainforest adventures

Yunque National Park, Puerto Rico: Rainforest adventures

Puerto Rico is not a one note island. If you go for only the beaches, you are missing out on a lot of the magic. And after a dark year of losing my mother to a deadly sickness, we needed some magic. So, even though Evey is in a weird age where he is too old to be carried in a hiking backpack and too young to hike much more then a mile, we still reserved one of our weekend days for the Yunque National Park, the only tropical rainforest in our nation.

We left Old San Juan early that morning for a scenic drive eastward, ascending winding roads that led us into the heart of the National Park. We opted for toddler-friendly ways to experience the jungle’s beauty. We stopped at every scenic point we could by car, including the Yokahu observation tower.

The Yunque National Park Visitor Center is a great way to learn about the rainforest. Here, we embarked on a pleasant 1-mile hike and immersed ourselves in informative content tailored to engage young minds. They had an excellent video that showed us the rich history of the park.

We also took a short hike into the jungle to swim in the waterfall. The experience turned slightly nerve-racking as my fearless children dove in without knowing how to swim. A minor hand injury and a surge of caution led me to decide we had our fill of waterfall swimming for the time being. We bribed the boys away with promises of more exploring ahead.

In the foothills of the jungle, we visited the Carabali adventure park. The lunch here was amazing, I really enjoyed the seafood mogonfo. E and I took an hour ride through the jungle on horseback while Jason and Evey enjoyed the park’s cozy bar. Then we all explored the jungle together on a exciting UTV ride winding through the foothills. We stopped at a local hang out spot, one of the many creeks flowing off the jungle mountains. Swimming in this rainwater fed crystal clear creek turned out to be the highlight of the entire trip for everyone.

We were exhausted by the time we made it to our fancy resort, covered head to toe in dirt and grime. The day was so packed with action that it was hard to recognize any other feeling then joy. At the end of the day after a much needed shower and a delicious resort meal, I took a deep breath in and remembered my grief. I pondered on the delicate balance of joy and grief. I let myself feel the bitter-sweetness of both feelings at the same time. And I then I slept… feeling the buzz of the boys’ excitement for the resort days to come.

Until next time,

San Juan, Puerto Rico: Kick-starting our summer

San Juan, Puerto Rico: Kick-starting our summer

There is nothing quite like the summertime seen through the eyes of a child. Fond memories of my childhood summers spent on our homestead in Arkansas still bring a warm smile to my face. Sunbathing on our front porch with my sisters, eating watermelon with my dad at dusk, helping my mom make jam and pickles… those carefree days hold a special place in my heart.

This year has been harsh. The loss of my mom, fondly known as the boys’ mema, cast a heavy veil of grief over our family. The grief has been heavy in our family. I wanted to make this summer extra special for them. And for me.

We kicked it off strong. On the last day of school, we whisked E and Evey away and headed to the airport, destined for the breathtaking beauty of Puerto Rico.

We started our extended weekend exploring Old San Juan, a place teeming with history and charm. At an age where they truly appreciate travel, my boys eagerly embraced the opportunity to explore. Our morning began with fancy waffles, which is becoming somewhat of a tradition for our travels ever since we stumbled across Waffle Monkey in Costa Rica. We loaded up on coffee and carbs and then embarked on our adventure.

As we approached Castillo San Felipe del Morro, an enchanting sight greeted our eyes: a dozen colorful kites soaring high in the sky. Our local driver explained the tradition of flying kites in the greenspace. I couldn’t resist. We bought a small kite adorned with a wizard and relaxed in the green grass while the wind did it’s thing. I really enjoy flying kites, and the boys loved helping me.

The castle itself beckoned us with tales of adventure. The boys were captivated by stories of cannons and imagined the thrill of spotting approaching pirates. Their youthful imaginations ran wild within those ancient walls.

We walked the bluestone streets of Old Town all afternoon. We weren’t quite expecting the heat to be as bad as it was, but we managed to stay hydrated. We stopped at a recommended restaurant from a local friend to get our first full meal of Puerto Rican food. By the end of the day, we were exhausted and sun drunk.

The day was long and hot, but our hearts and bellies were full. That night we slept with excitement for what Puerto Rico had in store for us. We had barely scratch the surface.

Until next time,

Ozarks, Arkansas: Creeks, wheelers, and smores

Ozarks, Arkansas: Creeks, wheelers, and smores

I grew up in Arkansas. I’m intimately familiar with its beauty. But my little Texan babies are not. So, watching them experience the Arkansas country side first hand fills me with nostalgia and love. With spring just barely in the air, we drove deep into the Ozark mountains to the tiny town of Pyatt, where my sister has a hidden cabin tucked away between three lively creeks. It was a chilly visit, but that didn’t stop the little cousins from wading in the creeks as daddy taught them to skip stones.

It was a short trip, but the memories these cousins will share will be huge. Memories like finding the perfect walking stick that also makes a great make believe wizards staff… searching for arrow heads but finding “funny” shaped rocks instead… and trying to pull apart sticky marshmallow covered gloves by the fire…

Until next time,