tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56745775666756661422012-01-29T20:43:24.271-05:00We're using the blog to share our adventures in Cuenca, Ecuador and beyond. We hope the information and pictures are helpful, entertaining and fun for friends and family.richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.comBlogger3931100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-50031697071966759482012-01-27T09:30:00.000-05:002012-01-27T09:31:52.810-05:00

We are seeing so much new-to-us street art around town that we thought we should dedicate a whole blog to it!  Some of it is really good, some not so much, but all pretty interesting (at least to us). More pictures later. ------------ Not street art, but just had to share!  Our friends have a new member of the family.  She is so

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-79001273696388259452012-01-22T15:20:00.000-05:002012-01-22T20:05:52.513-05:00

This project in our neighborhood is more massive than we could imagine at first. The work's progress continues round the clock.  Officials have pegged completion this November, just in time for Cuenca's Independence Day 2012. By golly, we think at the rate they're going, they just might make (or even beat) the deadline! For those following the

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-24762445338758286752012-01-22T15:00:00.000-05:002012-01-22T15:15:50.996-05:00

Periodically, we post pictures of friends for their families who miss them.  It's been awhile since we shared...thanks for asking!  You can see we're still having fun here!  Many of our readers will recognize these happy faces. New friends Jim and Ron. New friends Joe and Trish. The Fabulous Fabian and Sweet Sonya. With new

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-10142955447910609322012-01-20T06:30:00.000-05:002012-01-20T06:48:48.529-05:00

Switching gears as we get back to our  Cuenca... We often walk this area, so much that we tend to take it for granted.  Wide, tree-lined streets, busy traffic, fun shops and restaurants.  2 main drags of Cuenca.  You can easily catch buses and taxis on both. So much to see and enjoy each time we walk these streets.  There is always something fun to share! Drummers practicing on Av

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-60512455646757182862012-01-19T04:33:00.000-05:002012-01-19T04:33:45.185-05:00

Loja, continued.  Fun street art and more. At the pottery shop. A painting inside an old hotel. Church doors. Vendor booths outside a Church. Tile art detail in one of the parks. At the entry of Saraguro. Clock tower in Loja.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-67400567437692434222012-01-17T16:43:00.001-05:002012-01-22T16:03:34.192-05:00

OK, here are more fun pics... Nancy's latest best friend...this sweet little kitty lives at one of the restaurants we stopped at on the way in. Getting warm by the heater... Pottery! One day we visited here for a delicious lunch...gorgeous grounds and views.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-10330027921105158382012-01-17T16:30:00.000-05:002012-01-17T16:30:00.585-05:00

More fun pics to share... Entry to an historic street. Triple locked! A very fun park. Outside this park, there are some fun statues.  Of course, the guys had to 'ride' the donkey... A visit to the botanical gardens. Check out the size of these

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-29548564238620135292012-01-17T16:00:00.000-05:002012-01-22T16:07:20.060-05:00

We took a little trip to Loja and Vilcabamba with our friends, Chuck and Nancy, Barbara and Howard. It was our first trip to this area and we had a wonderful time exploring and enjoying the company of our good friends.  Of course, we took about a zillion pics, just too many to share, but we'll do our best. (This is a pic of Loja from our hotel room.) You can also see pics and read more about

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-82582015570344676122012-01-12T06:30:00.000-05:002012-01-12T06:40:50.381-05:00

The biggest people's market in Cuenca is the Feria Libre.  Everytime we go there, we are stunned by the choices and the sheer humanity!  Feria Libre is a short walk from our apt.  The neighborhood backs up to our urban development/growth area.  A friend lives in the Feria Libre neighborhood.  His family has lived there for several generations in the same houses.  When he was a kid, this area

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-49693607719915802012012-01-11T07:00:00.000-05:002012-01-11T07:14:31.909-05:00

Day of the Innocents is a huge celebration!  It wasn't Sunday, but we had the pleasure of walking with Chuck and Nancy during the week last week.  Here are pictures of the City gearing up for the big parade!  This is a big statue draped in black plastic to protect it from the rain. Fun masks at the SF Market. Looks like Halloween! A vendor

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-24336701184113685502012-01-10T12:00:00.000-05:002012-01-10T12:37:51.733-05:00

We have some friends flying to Quito soon. We thought we'd share some pics of our recent, very quick, 1 day trip.  There is so much more to Quito than these pics, but might give you some idea... Easy flight from Cuenca, usually about a half hour. This time we were able to get flights on our favorite airline, Aerogal.  We like this airline because there are iguanas and frigate birds painted

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-38493525319218399422012-01-08T20:30:00.000-05:002012-01-08T20:30:18.482-05:00

Besides the List we compiled for 2010, we received additional questions off and on-Blog about Cuenca in 2011. Everything from Internet speed and availability, how to find a rental or a hotel, how to meet expats, prices and availability of goods/services, what to see and do, what to pack and more.  We could probably wile away whole days chatting or typing to our readers...But, to get you

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-57980804474442948562012-01-06T14:00:00.000-05:002012-01-07T11:05:17.386-05:00

...that catches our eye!  Pics from this week's walks.  Not crowded earlier in the week, probably not everyone was back to work after the New Year's holiday. Walking down Av. LaMar toward the Square, we zigzagged a little... A small shop on the backside of La Cuadra apt complex.  They sell a bit of everything. Costume shop. Another little

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-60307080325176982602012-01-05T07:00:00.000-05:002012-01-05T06:58:42.996-05:00

We've gone by this park many times, but just never got out of the taxi to explore. On a recent Sunday,  we finally were in the right place/time to visit.  So glad we did!  What a little slice of paradise.  We'd describe it as a cross between Tilden Park in Berkeley, CA (lots of eucalyptus trees and smells) and San Francisco's Golden Gate Park.  El Paraiso is smaller than both, but

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-60115646594731668322012-01-03T19:30:00.000-05:002012-01-04T06:40:46.180-05:00

The road work has finally begun! Our round-about, at Av Las Americas is beinging replaced with an underpass.  Planning for this huge project is done and now the work has actually started.  Should be all done in about a year or so. This is the round-about that connects Av Las Americas, Av Ordonez Lasso and Gran Colombia (G Colombia changes its name to Lasso at the intersection.)  Traffic is very

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-16561333482604627292012-01-01T07:32:00.000-05:002012-01-01T18:47:29.856-05:00

Happy New Year! Cuenca sure knows how to party!  New Year's Eve is traditionally loud, raucous, crowded and FUN! For those who think they will get a good night's sleep on this night may be disappointed, no matter where you stay in the City.  For those who want to join in and party-hardy, you will celebrate New Year's like no other!  We began the evening right here in the neighborhood

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-83351015273964880242011-12-30T20:54:00.000-05:002011-12-30T21:07:57.250-05:00

Shots from the air as we were coming into Guayaquil. Clouds over the Andes.  If you fly, you will see the most incredible, stunning cloud formations. The airport's koi pond. On the road out of town. The bus terminal. Close-ups of the textiles in the Suite (for P2 and Mom).

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-4786649588322979682011-12-30T20:15:00.001-05:002011-12-30T21:06:20.640-05:00

More pics of our most excellent visit to the Coast. We have a soft spot for iguanas, well, for all animals.  Can you imagine seeing iguanas on your property?  This little guy is pretty curious. It happens all the time at Bob and Rox's. Meet Lorraine, the resident parrot.  You wonder what's going on in her head as she runs through all her sounds and words.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-86574510344082351032011-12-30T19:21:00.000-05:002011-12-30T20:59:23.514-05:00

We were delighted to take a little trip to the Coast to help celebrate Brother Bob's birthday!  Yes, he's 39...again...he's still looking and acting like a young whipper/snapper (how does he do that?) We always try to fly everywhere rather than go by land (Rich gets terrible motion sickness).  So, we hopped on a plane with our favorite airline, Aerogal.  30 minutes later, we were off

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-73238961280540562092011-12-25T19:10:00.000-05:002011-12-25T19:10:27.923-05:00

The Parade of Children, Pase del Nino (Passing of the Child),  happens each Christmas Eve in Cuenca.  It's the big event many of us wait for each year!  About 50,000 children, all in holiday outfits, fill the streets of the City.  The Parade goes on for hours, so each child can participate.  With almost 200,000 spectators, it's a huge, fun event! You really need to be here in person to

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-26612192083099614562011-12-25T19:01:00.001-05:002011-12-25T19:14:00.438-05:00

More pics...These were taken of the parade from a couple of different venues. Still getting this 'float' ready early morning. Note the spinning wool.... This 'float' is sponsored by the Church at the flower market.  Even the doggies were decorated. A lot going on in some of these pics...you might need to

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-48092797036745096412011-12-23T14:22:00.000-05:002011-12-23T15:39:27.158-05:00

We wish you a Very Merry Christmas! Don't forget to track Santa! http://www.noradsanta.org/en/ Santa's Helpers are already here in Cuenca. Feliz Navidad to you and yours! Love, Nancy and Rich

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-26860760734179340292011-12-21T08:14:00.000-05:002011-12-21T08:14:33.437-05:00

We are so happy that our friend and talented writer, Magdalena, has given us permission to share another interesting story with our readers about her life here in Cuenca.  For more of her writings and her bio, you can search this blog. Enjoy! ---------------- IN SEARCH OF MAGIC IN ECUADOR, II By Magdalena Herreshoff It is the world of Ecuador’s medicinal plants that intrigues me the most

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-68306335266046078192011-12-21T08:11:00.000-05:002011-12-21T08:11:05.666-05:00

We are still adusting to the upside down seasons here in South America. Christmas time is supposed to be snowy and cold!  That's how it used to be for us in the US.  Of course, it didn't snow in San Francisco, but it sure did in Oregon.  We were so grateful for the fireplace and central heat, extra-warm jackets and wool mitts, sox and hats in those days.  Not so grateful for the heating bills!

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-17547842801212576622011-12-19T06:24:00.000-05:002011-12-19T06:24:13.822-05:00

We always have a fun time with Chuck and Nancy on our Sunday adventures! Starting the morning at the Kookaburra Cafe, we had to stop for breakfast to visit with Chris and Jenny one-more-time this year.  The Kook will be closed for the holidays, re-opening Jan 5. On to the Square...here we met new friends, Myrna and David. We passed this sign on the way, so have to add

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-68942604876425603912011-12-15T03:01:00.000-05:002011-12-15T03:01:34.441-05:00

We headed out fairly early this day, thinking we could get a walk in before the sun blasted us back home.  We like to try to avoid the downpours in the afternoons, too, if we can. Here's a picture of the church dome at San Sebastian plaza...cool temps, clearing skies... We made it to the Square, walking on the shady side of the streets.  The Christmas Tree is UP! Only in

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-85371117766648275282011-12-12T09:28:00.000-05:002011-12-12T09:28:14.868-05:00

More pictures of our walks around town.  We are so happy to share Sunday walks with our friends, Chuck and Nancy again, too. To begin this post, pictures of our street, all done!  The workers finally finished the street repairs.  Brand new blacktop! As the street 'cured', it was all blocked off to traffic. (That's Edificio Amazonas on the left, Edificio Los Pinos on the right, looking

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-4840940582585943082011-12-08T18:14:00.001-05:002011-12-08T18:18:18.102-05:00

We have blogged before about this wonderful Church undergoing a massive renovation.  Todos Santos is one of the oldest Churches here in Cuenca. This first picture is a before-picture of the Church before the work began several years ago. This week we joined up with friends to tour the renovation project.  Ever since we got here, we'd all been itching to see the inside and we were so pleased to

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-9278712606293189542011-12-06T04:31:00.000-05:002011-12-06T04:31:52.333-05:00

Back a few months ago, we posted a picture and blogged about a beautiful Black Witch Moth we found in our bedroom.  Well, we found another one, this time in our living room. Being a night moth, it decided to rest for the day on a shawl, probably trying to blend into the dark fabric for protection. It's about 6 inches across from the tips of the wings. It had come in through an open window the

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-85722245066298220302011-12-04T05:28:00.000-05:002011-12-04T05:28:52.833-05:00

We took another road trip with friends  to the Yunguilla Valley. Yunguilla is lower altitude than Cuenca, so it's warmer and more tropical. Flowers are all a bloom... Animals were out and about... Lovely wall painting and hummingbirds! Yep, sun shines in Yunguilla!

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-6472861902093857592011-12-02T13:43:00.001-05:002011-12-03T08:08:40.896-05:00

When Nancy's family first got a TV, they all watched everything...bowling, wrestling, Lawrence Welk, as well as more 'serious' shows like Dark Shadows and Dragnet. But, the all-time favorite was a dog training show.  The woman http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbara_Woodhouse always said 'walkie!' as she was training the doggies.  The sisters imitated this woman for years and Nancy still does as

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-78921648482573373952011-11-28T11:12:00.001-05:002011-11-28T13:22:12.300-05:00

We stumbled upon another parade on one of our walks last week.  This one with children celebrating their sports teams, beginning at San Sabastian. Mostly boys, but at least one group of girls. A parade must have music and flags! Each team also included a doggie mascot and a beauty queen. This cute little tyke represented the 'tiger team'.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-31162528963195952152011-11-23T09:25:00.000-05:002011-11-23T09:25:07.016-05:00

Some have asked about cooking here:  how to find ingredients and favorite foods, cooking at our altitude (8300 ft), what to bring, what we miss....... We are always delighted to stumble upon yet another cooking ingredient that we didn't think we could find here.  Recently, we found cardamom and dates in a spice shop!  You just got to ask around and keep looking for some things.  (These

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-83311456520330634132011-11-13T18:29:00.000-05:002011-11-13T18:29:10.355-05:00

Today, it was bright and warm until these afternoon rains.  As we write this blog, it's pouring outside!  No complaints here...Spring showers bring spring flowers! Remember, our seasons are the flip-flop of North America.  As our Northern friends are moving into Fall/Winter, we're heading into Spring/Summer. We walked to Town, sat on a bench and watched the world go by.  Church was just letting

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-88674803136023374922011-11-10T06:52:00.000-05:002011-11-10T06:52:24.033-05:00

The roadwork on our street has begun. That huge rig is delivering goods from a container for a neighbor. New signage at Edificio Amazonas. This building is coming right along. One of our favorite doggies is alive and well. New garage doors at Terrazza.  We hear folks will begin moving in soon!While the road crew was working, half of our street was

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-37826723275020501472011-11-10T06:50:00.000-05:002011-11-10T06:50:31.217-05:00

We've posted pictures of this street before, but there is always something that gets our attention.  We walk this path often. Gran Colombia begins at our end of town (west), at the roundabout at Av de las Americas, another busy thoroughfare.  If you cross the roundabout coming from Town, probably the most dangerous intersection in Cuenca if you're on foot!, Gran Colombia becomes Av Ordonez

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-31147428309480511042011-11-06T06:42:00.001-05:002011-11-06T09:09:45.906-05:00

Sometimes you see the most interesting things on foot.  At least it's interesting to us! Never a dull moment.  Here's Part 2 of our Holiday Week walks.  (Clearing the camera, as we head on out.) Street food! Chocolate covered 'something', maybe fruit, with bits of marshmellow on top.  And, candied apples, of course. Cotton candy, another big hit with the children. Ice

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-12387124210986397992011-11-06T06:38:00.000-05:002011-11-06T06:38:26.621-05:00

We walked all over this City, enjoying the good weather and all the fun during this Holiday Week.  More fun pictures to share.  (Lots of pics, so we'll break the walking pics into a couple of posts.  Part 2 later.) Here's a guy carrying a propane tank via bicycle. A new smiley face. Another Halloween decoration.  We thought it was an orange snowman at first.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-52850182180597978272011-11-05T05:57:00.000-05:002011-11-05T05:58:00.019-05:00

One more art show!  Lovely art at the Broken Bridge. Some favorites. This little girl was a favorite, too.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-57185887715112753452011-11-04T09:06:00.000-05:002011-11-04T09:06:45.047-05:00

During the Independence week of celebrations, there are many, many art displays around Cuenca. One can't possibly attend them all, there are so many!  But, we attended several.  A wide variety of art...paintings, jewelry, handicrafts, sculptures and more. The Peruvian booths. We love all the colors. CIDAP It was fun to see the beautiful necklaces from Saraguro

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-5913841993249043662011-11-04T08:51:00.000-05:002011-11-04T08:51:15.367-05:00

Here are pictures of a military event at the Square for Cuenca's Independence Day.  The event was just getting organized.  Soldiers were taking their places around the Square and the officials were arriving.  BIG banners, lots of flowers, too. The solider on the right wears the same uniform we saw at the Presidential Palace in Quito.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-24561916996861449882011-11-03T06:17:00.000-05:002011-11-03T06:17:21.168-05:00

Cuenca turns the respectable age of 191 this year, and she's still looking good! She sure knows how to party! The offical day for Cuenca's Independence is Nov 3, but this City has been celebrating all week.  It's one of the busiest weeks here in Cuenca.  We heard all flights to Cuenca, as well as to some other areas in Ecuador , have been sold out.  All of Ecuador celebrates

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-53204898731900204572011-11-02T10:58:00.000-05:002011-11-02T10:58:53.121-05:00

Nov 2 is the official All Soul's Day, but we visited the cemetery a day early to avoid the crowds.  Over the week, officials were expecting about 100,000 people to visit the cemetery!  (For previous All Soul's Day events,  you can do a search on this blog.) This year, we saw more of the lovely grounds and areas we hadn't seen last time. Vendors lined the streets to sell the traditional drink

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-81954859224520900462011-11-02T10:55:00.000-05:002011-11-02T10:55:08.399-05:00

Lovely flowers blooming all over Cuenca.  Our Spring Time!  Here's a collection from one of our recent walks.  Enjoy! If you're here in Cuenca, you can see the garden art at Esquina de las Artes, on Av. 12 de Abril.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-7456420792958020412011-11-01T05:35:00.000-05:002011-11-01T05:35:18.522-05:00

On this walk, we began at the El Maiz restaurant on Calle Larga.  After lunch with friends, we headed back toward town. Here is the fun sign outside the restaurant. Headed toward Todos Santos, the Church still under renovation.  Lots of progress.  The construction fence is down and the re-painting is lovely.  (The Church is expected to be all done soon.) Old windows are being

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-28040650895834582992011-10-29T08:42:00.000-05:002011-10-29T08:42:04.481-05:00

Back to sharing pictures. We walk this path often from San Sabastian to the Square.  San Sabastian plaza is where the Museum of Modern Art is located.  It's also where the San Sabastian Church is, along with the 'Humiliation Cross' from the old days. We are stunned (and pleased!) by the speed and size of the roadwork project in this area.  Real progress each day. One day the road is

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-68587408823289912442011-10-29T06:42:00.000-05:002011-10-29T06:42:39.172-05:00

We feel compelled to write this blog after hearing about some events recently. Might save someone some grief and pain. One story is especially heartbreaking.  A single gal, who had planned for over 2 years to make the move to Cuenca finally arrived, but she didn't stay long. She is now back 'home' in the US.  She had the ugly and painful experience of having her long, dangly, sparkley earrings

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-77070054064780530952011-10-28T06:29:00.000-05:002011-10-28T06:29:31.285-05:00

Periodically, we post pics of friends for the families who miss them.  Thanks for reminding us! It's been awhile, so these pics span several months.  You will recognize many of these happy faces! (Some of these pics are 'out-takes' from previous blogs.) A HUGE Happy Birthday shout-out to the Watsons who celebrate this month and to family members who celebrate in October, too. It may look

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-71587186018824758332011-10-26T17:22:00.000-05:002011-10-26T17:22:27.342-05:00

Bob, Rox and Coquita blew into Cuenca for a few days.  They got more shopping done for the Kid's Christmas Party on the Coast.  Always fun to see them and catch up on all the news. A good morning on the porch. A little chilly for Senorita Coquita in the evenings. Coquita wore herself out playing and looking cute. (Bob is taking a pic of the

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-46479260305172782302011-10-24T05:40:00.000-05:002011-10-24T05:40:14.768-05:00

On our walks to Town, we often meander and zigzag and cut up and down side streets.  Here are some pics...always something interesting and fun. Flower shop. Great old building with good Italian restaurant, Mangiere. A fun boutique sign. Water delivery truck.  Water in Cuenca is probably the safest in South America, but some, including us, have

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-70692463020325229632011-10-21T09:07:00.000-05:002011-10-21T09:07:34.503-05:00

Cuenca is getting ready for all the upcoming celebrations! The workers are already hanging flags along the streets and sprucing up the Square.  (Flags = red, yellow, blue for Ecuador; red and yellow for Azuay, our State. Solid red for Cuenca.) Several workers at the Square with weedwackers, brooms and rakes. All the plants are cooperating, too. Lots

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-32619251212862626902011-10-18T18:36:00.000-05:002011-10-18T18:36:00.747-05:00

Saraguro is known for stunning beadwork jewelry and weavings.  The rugs are beautiful!  We had to go shopping for both.  Some beaded necklaces are wide enough to cover the shoulders. The highlight of the trip was meeting this wonderful woman.  It was a true honor to meet her and spend some time learning about her family and her crafts. Thrilled!

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-63245009147428534102011-10-18T16:10:00.001-05:002011-10-18T18:47:15.812-05:00

(We've decided to do several blogs on this fascinating Saraguro.  This is part 3, with one more to go.) We visited the town cemetery. Interesting trees in the background. Some street scenes. Big Church at the Square. Inside of the Church. The alter area had an amazing collection of fresh flower

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-26404418624168210942011-10-18T07:36:00.000-05:002011-10-18T07:36:24.075-05:00

Our first stop was the animal market.  (This is part 2 of about 4...) Beautiful necklace. We were the only gringos there. All tuckered out at the end of a busy market day.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-73028518420891502232011-10-17T20:00:00.000-05:002011-10-17T20:00:48.560-05:00

On Sunday, yes, we walked.  But not in Cuenca. We hit the road again, this time with our friends, Bruce, Charlie and Fabian.  Several of our friends have raved about their trips to the Saraguro area.  It sounded like fun, so we had to go, too.  It is known for so much history and crafts and the Sunday market.  Saraguro is like a trip into the past.  Very Incan, pre-Spanish.  Folks live like

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-58633459489224258402011-10-16T07:04:00.000-05:002011-10-16T07:04:22.367-05:00

We continue to try to get out and walk each day.  The rain comes in usually each afternoon, but the mornings tend to be dryer and it's easier for walking.  The streets aren't as slippery.  We also try to avoid the intense sun here.  It can feel really hot, even with our hats and umbrella.  The temperatures, though, rarely go above 80F.  Average temperature gauges during the day range in the

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-86386438032240510572011-10-15T16:23:00.000-05:002011-10-15T16:23:44.763-05:00

On our walk today, we were happy to come across a display outside the Coffee Tree at La Merced Plaza. Booths lined up with photography! All very good. Here's a favorite. There was also an artist selling his traditional-style shawl pins.  Just beautiful. We continued our walk down the stairs at Calle Larga and over the river.  Oh dear, more yucky scribbles on

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-41697986289370304542011-10-14T05:31:00.000-05:002011-10-14T05:31:14.775-05:00

One day we explored the old neighborhood around the 'Broken Bridge'.  This bridge used to cross the river until a flood wiped out half of the structure.  Today, it's a location for art shows and other festivities. Stunning stonework. We walked down the stairs from Calle Larga toward the river, past an artist's studio. You can see the broken glass that is

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-4388009077864560152011-10-12T07:51:00.000-05:002011-10-12T07:51:44.847-05:00

We got to talking with friends and learned about a new-to-us neighborhood around the 12 April people's market.  It's not on the tourist maps, not on Av 12 de Abril, but taxi drivers will know how to get you there.  It's located past the Central Bank area, past Av H Capac, in that part of town. We dodged the afternoon rain and headed on out after lunch. Outside the market.  Medical offices

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-48808197799252859732011-10-09T07:58:00.000-05:002011-10-09T07:58:48.044-05:00

We like to head on out of busy Cuenca occasionally to see the countryside. Here are pictures from some recent adventures. Back to the Trout Farm, Dos Chorreras (2 waterfalls).  We have blogged on this wonderful place before.  It's high up in the Andes and offers delicious, fresh trout fixed every which way. The grounds are gorgeous. Llama Alert!! A good

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-65989140779113988582011-10-07T17:48:00.001-05:002011-10-08T14:10:14.752-05:00

Someone once said:  'Water, water everywhere and not a drop to drink.' Well, we know this can happen in Cuenca. The torrential storm earlier this week flooded streets, cut off power and damaged some City water structure. (This is a picture of rain on the porch windows, looking toward Edificio Terrazza.)  We don't much mind the rain.  Keeps everything green and the air smells so fresh!  The

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-17819220338872753602011-10-05T06:41:00.001-05:002011-10-05T07:55:49.177-05:00

We are thrilled to have permission to publish another story by our friend and world-class writer, Magdalena.  She and husband Daniel live in Cuenca. You can go back in our blog for previous postings by her, all a slice of life here.  (Her bio is on a previous post, too.)  We delight in those little magical moments as well...enjoy! We'll share more of Magdalena's writings later. --------------

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-10650617748544865922011-10-03T19:09:00.000-05:002011-10-03T19:09:08.002-05:00

Ecuador is mostly a Christian country, so there are many Churches, many Crosses. You will see both everywhere in Cuenca. In early days, entrances to the City were marked by a Cross.  Some of these Crosses are still here.  Some examples: *San Sabastian This Cross was known as the 'Humiliation Cross' in Old Cuenca.  It's where the bad guys were tied up, whipped for their sins and sent out of town

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-27436665978222030042011-10-02T07:30:00.000-05:002011-10-02T07:30:33.208-05:00

Yes, we do more than walk around Cuenca!  Here's a change of pace... Before: After!We used to have a very uncomfortable loveseat recliner in our TV/reading area upstairs.  Now we have VERY comfy reclining chairs and foot stools!  The chairs swivel and rock, too.  A little trouble moving the old loveseat down the apt stairs, but the guys did a great job with no damage. Headed to the front door

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-17956997089905478122011-09-28T15:51:00.000-05:002011-09-28T15:51:29.918-05:00

We had our last Sunday walk with Chuck and Nancy for awhile.  Our Sunday walking companions are headed out on their next adventure.  We already miss them and can't wait until their return home. Here are some pictures from Sunday... We had to check out the progress on the renovation project for the cultural center.  We were surprised to see that smooth dirt all torn up again.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-77958252219385322072011-09-26T08:15:00.000-05:002011-09-26T08:15:57.753-05:00

We decided to continue the walk down Av Munoz, from Borrero toward Av Huayna Capac.  A very old part of Cuenca.  The neighborhood has been renovated a bit, compared to how it must have looked in those old days.  The still-narrow street was clean and looked like it had been repaired fairly recently.  At one time, we suspect it had been a dirt road, one of the main entries to town. (Ruth, we know

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-11677326888730750562011-09-25T06:02:00.000-05:002011-09-25T06:02:04.153-05:00

This is part 2 of our 'walking fools' day.  This day's recount begins on the previous post, where we began down Av. Lamar from our apt. Munoz is a street of contrasts, as many neighborhood streets are.  We walked this area on a Tuesday morning, but it felt like Sunday...not much traffic and an occasional bus.  It did get busier as we got closer to downtown. Here are some pictures. You'll

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-1915334730933196732011-09-24T06:16:00.000-05:002011-09-24T06:16:03.347-05:00

One day this week, we headed on out for a walk...little did we know at the time we'd be walking clear across the City!  Hadn't planned it, just happened.  We're happy to report we survived the trek, with a few breaks with friends.  It wasn't a power walk, by any means, as we saundered along, taking pics, chatting, checking out the scenery and watching our feet. It really didn't take too long to

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-43096460458492569512011-09-23T09:20:00.000-05:002011-09-23T09:20:36.616-05:00

On our way to lunch and more walking down Av Munoz, we were delighted to see a little celebration at Parque Caleron.  The streets around the Square were blocked off to traffic and we followed the music... Booths...the cooking school. Demonstration of decorating a cake...  Dancing in the street! We sat and enjoyed the festivities for awhile before

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-92210176662958538272011-09-22T18:10:00.000-05:002011-09-22T18:10:29.046-05:00

One day, we decided to walk the other way, away from downtown, from the CA Kitchen along Av. Borrero.  We've been back in this neighborhood a few times.  Always something interesting to see each time.  It's a real neighborhood, folks live on the economy, streets are busy with street vendors and little shops. No fancy shops or restaurants, no imported goods, just families living their lives...

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-32063362042364545972011-09-20T06:55:00.000-05:002011-09-20T06:55:32.752-05:00

Always fun to see what we can see (and share) on our walks around town. This post is another collection of fun and interesting items.  We always wondered where folks can buy gardening seeds, besides some of the people's markets.  One day, we discovered a little shop across from the San Francisco Church...guess what we found...  We don't know the quality of the seeds (or the prices),

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-33253912829658323232011-09-17T09:25:00.001-05:002011-09-17T11:17:00.929-05:00

It always seems like a too-short visit with our family from the Coast, and this time was no exception.  But, the visits are always productive and fun! Bob and Rox began shopping for this year's Christmas Party for the Kids.  The annual event grows each year and 2011 looks like they will treat about 400 childen and their families...So, it's never too early to begin planning and shopping. If

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-20092952972147160782011-09-13T12:07:00.000-05:002011-09-13T12:07:52.878-05:00

Cuenca is a UNESCO City and for good reason!  The architecture and history are stunning.  We're catching up on sharing more pictures (for you, Patti!) These were taken downtown during a few walking adventures.  You can really see the buildings if you're on foot! We love all the details.  Lots of pretty balconies filled with flowers. Yellow orchids. You can see the

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-61743266021899272072011-09-09T08:51:00.001-05:002011-09-12T04:05:47.847-05:00

Here is our latest 'door' collection.  A wide variety...old, new, traditional, creative, and all functional. Behind each of these doors is a treasure to discover!  We love when the doors are open and we can explore. At the San Alfonso Church. Crosses at ground level...you'll remember the rumor that these crosses are meant to deter public urination.  We usually see them near the churches.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-65800925923015224892011-09-07T09:52:00.000-05:002011-09-07T09:52:06.590-05:00

This Sunday, we had to check on the progress of the construction at the new cultural center area with Chuck and Nancy. We've shared earlier pictures of this plaza before and here is latest progress shots. Del Vado translates as 'ford', as in river...It's located right above a stretch of the river.  The path along adjoining Av La Condamine turns toward Calle Larga and the busy 10 de Aug market (on

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-44990789565725558442011-09-05T10:24:00.000-05:002011-09-05T10:24:32.383-05:00

Preparing for any disaster is a good thing.  Always good to have a plan.  You can't plan for everything, but some quick and easy planning can only help. When we lived in San Francisco, one of Nancy's jobs was to prepare the Bank for 'business resumption' after a disaster or 'business interruption'.  We lived in earthquake country...but there were also riots, fires, power outages and much more

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-71226301523519275872011-08-31T06:14:00.000-05:002011-08-31T06:14:01.834-05:00

Another walk, another neighborhood... This time we explored one of the oldest areas in Cuenca, seeped in history, Todos Santos (All Saints). The first Church in Cuenca is located here, now under major renovation.  In 2005, there was an electrical fire that did alot of damage and the Church was also suffering from neglect and huge maintenance issues.  This fix-up project began a few years ago,

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-44191407429867233062011-08-28T08:40:00.000-05:002011-08-28T08:40:44.039-05:00

Some folks try to catagorize and define such terms as 'traveler/tourist' and 'expat/resident'.  We hope we never have to decide which box we're in, because we think we are in both!  There really isn't a hard and fast line between the catagories, in our opinion.  We move from one to the other all the time. One fairly new expat mentioned she didn't want to do the 'touristy stuff' like many gringos

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-41391107244029114892011-08-24T16:55:00.001-05:002011-08-24T17:31:57.129-05:00

Big earthquake today centered in northern Peru, a 6.8 - 7.0 or so. We felt it here in Cuenca.  As Nancy felt the swaying on the porch in our apt, she called Rich, who was at the Fragata building.  A couple beats later, Rich felt it, too. Mild swaying here, no damage that we know of, no panic...Nancy didn't even get up from the computer.  Not to sound too comfortable with earthquakes, but being

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-9440589090697244102011-08-23T19:12:00.000-05:002011-08-23T19:12:10.737-05:00

Last Sunday we walked with our friends, Barbara and Howard.  Here are pictures from that fun day. We began at this square on Calle Larga. We've called it the 'cannonball plaza', because of the big cement balls along the street (to block traffic from entering).  The real name is Plaza La Merced, after the Church located there.  It's also where the CoffeeTree is located with popular outside tables

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-36678171606772528172011-08-22T10:06:00.000-05:002011-08-22T10:06:35.011-05:00

More pictures of our walks along this historic stretch of the Tomebamba River. Beautifully restored building.  CIDAP museum is located here. Right next door, an outbuilding of the orignal house. Stairs leading up to Calle Larga and a walking bridge over the river. You can see Parque de la Madre (Mother's Park) in the background. Fortunately, there are flat 'breaks'

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-68436599501544485832011-08-16T18:25:00.000-05:002011-08-16T18:25:21.395-05:00

We've been having alot of fun celebrating birthdays this month.  More pictures to share... Here are the Birthday Boys, Howard, Rich and Bruce. We celebrated at the CA Kitchen. Thanks to all who sent birthday greetings to Rich...the big 7-0 this year! ----------- Last weekend Ecuador celebrated the 'First Cry of Freedom' from Spain.  Flags out at the

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-30921782238810024222011-08-12T07:06:00.000-05:002011-08-12T07:06:27.656-05:00

We explored a couple more neighborhoods on our walks around town. There is a nice plaza neighborhood on the way to CA Kitchen...  a mix of architecture and activities around the square. The plaza is called Parque Maria Auxiliadora. Modern Church with pretty stained glass windows. Book store. A curious poster, not

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-69017726295292301772011-08-05T07:08:00.000-05:002011-08-05T07:08:34.486-05:00

You know how much we love Cuenca, and we've counted the ways here many times.  So much good to offer as a City with lots of beauty, lots of services... But some friends feel so much better outside of Cuenca!  Expats and Ecuadorians both. We don't know the science (if there is any), we just know by their stories, that they feel mucho better at their country homes, than they do in Cuenca. 

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-16641855505070748692011-08-02T16:30:00.000-05:002011-08-02T16:30:46.383-05:00

Here are more pictures around town ... From a recent Sunday walk...  the new cultural center area renovation work is progressing nicely. Looks like this old buildng will be getting a new facade soon. A street artist just couldn't resist decorating, too. Workers fixing the street... More beautification of the area between the Main Square and the Flower Market.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-90136696921101652902011-07-31T19:24:00.001-05:002011-08-01T08:03:43.924-05:00

Our friends have a country home in Yunguilla Valley.  It's at lower altitude than Cuenca, so the vegetation is different with the warmer temperatures.  'Thought some of our readers would like to see more pictures. Cows in the pasture...that little 'dot' on the right is a baby cow relaxing... Here's a close-up of Mom-cow. A peaceful place. 

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-13089156668034740112011-07-27T09:03:00.000-05:002011-07-27T09:03:06.117-05:00

We love the shop displays...all the fun fashions and 'models'... Here is a costume shop... For all the Spiderman fans! Maybe the fun colored hair is just for display, not sure if you can buy the wigs. A bride with no hair! You have seen the beautiful 'real' hair on many previous blog entrys...

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-25459422181673878262011-07-20T11:24:00.000-05:002011-07-20T11:24:36.568-05:00

Another fun Sunday with our friends Chuck and Nancy.  This Sunday our friends, Carol and George, joined us as we headed off to see what we could see at the Main Square. We were all delighted to see a very fun art show of local crafts! A picture of the motley crew. (minus Rich)..you can see we are all bundled up for the chilly day.  Rain clouds were looming, but we managed to stay dry and warm

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-51094442811553444322011-07-18T16:54:00.000-05:002011-07-18T16:54:14.726-05:00

Note from Nancy... Dragon's Blood, or Sangre de Drago in Spanish, is a powerful medicine from the jungle.  It's harvested from a tree and looks and acts just like blood!  Used for a variety of ailments, both topically and internally, it's anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant. It can also heal wounds and it kills some kinds of bacteria, including the really bad one that causes ulcers.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-46841110275922590532011-07-15T09:52:00.001-05:002011-07-15T09:57:44.007-05:00

Our knitting/crocheting/weaving friends will appreciate this post! Yes, there is yarn in Cuenca.  You can visit several shops along Av. G. Sangurima.  There is even a yarn shop right next door to the CA Kitchen at Av. Sangurima and P. Borrero. We found this particular yarn shop at Av. Luis Cordero, between Gran Colombia and Simon Bolivar, headed to the Square, right hand side (walking from the

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-49998132089333923282011-07-13T13:32:00.002-05:002011-07-14T04:41:15.627-05:00

For those following the progress of the Edificio Terrazza across from us...This is the construction we've been watching from our porch, since we moved in a couple years ago. It's been fairly quiet at the construction site for the last week or so..not much noise or activity that we can see.  Perhaps there are more workers elsewhere in the complex and we just don't see or hear them. Here are some

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-37828416377700604042011-07-11T09:34:00.000-05:002011-07-11T09:34:37.411-05:00

Friends recently bought a new place in the Andes, so we had to go visit for a look-see.  We took a road trip out and began the visit at lunch in town.  Great soup at Corval's, right off the town's square. We were surprised to see all the colorful artwork across the street from the restaurant had been white washed over...and re-done to black/white. A few new colorful wall paintings

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-44852516838246198762011-07-08T07:35:00.000-05:002011-07-08T07:35:04.719-05:00

We celebrated a genuine 4th of July here in Cuenca this year again.  This time, we were with friends at the California Kitchen for real BBQ, salads, music and dancing. Have to admit, since this holiday is not celebrated here, like it is in the US, it still felt a little funny for the town to be business-as-usual.  Most of our Ecuadorian friends went to work, shopped, picked up kids and fought

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-57474493552118806332011-07-03T15:44:00.000-05:002011-07-03T15:44:21.903-05:00

A little this and a little that...more pictures from our walks around town.  No theme, just fun. LOTS of sweet treats for Corpus Christi celebrations. The coconut balls are to die for!  The cookies were pretty good, too, especially with a hot cup of tea. We didn't find any of our favorite donuts in all the booths; some of you will remember those delicious donuts we found one day in a

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-1950352411109486582011-06-30T07:57:00.000-05:002011-06-30T07:57:25.006-05:00

We're covering a few topics today...  Not really related, but we've gotten some questions and comments lately about a few of these subjects and want to answer and comment here, also.  We're figuring other readers could be interested as well. About parasites... It's been 6 months since we did the initial parasite treatment, and we're in the middle of doing it again.  Here, it's common for folks

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-3383449733446871962011-06-25T16:00:00.000-05:002011-06-25T16:00:55.849-05:00

Our regular readers will know we like to have a theme when we're out walking with our cameras. One day we decided to do an 'English' theme...We hadn't really realized how much we see the English language on signs until we started to look for them.  Our brains usually go for the Spanish now. We entertained ourselves by translating the English to Spanish (instead of the other way around.)   Fun

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-48536899615244968472011-06-16T20:55:00.000-05:002011-06-16T20:55:58.205-05:00

Catching up on pictures... You got it, we decided to cover the rest of the rainbow colors on our walks.  Here are more fun pictures to share.  Some readers will remember we did BLUE and RED on an earlier blog entry.  We've collected more colors since then. First, PINK and PURPLE. Flowers in the neighborhood. From the garden at the Adobe rental. A

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-31790900991766671022011-06-07T17:25:00.001-05:002011-09-12T17:43:29.812-05:00

As many of our friends know, Nancy loves her appliances.  It was a sad day when the dishwasher crapped out recently.  Workers tried to fix it but couldn't, so we went shopping.  Happy to report, there are new dishwashers, several models, available here in Cuenca!  This one is the 3rd we've bought here (the others are in 2 of our rentals at Edificio La Fragata.) If you're in the market for

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-58190575311662495142011-06-01T12:26:00.001-05:002011-06-01T16:44:00.463-05:00

Sometimes while we're walking around town, we go for a theme...some days we do color themes, but this walk we did a fruit theme.  Got to entertain ourselves! The street vendors are out in force with the ripest, juiciest fruit.  This picture was taken outside ETAPA. On Calle Larga, coconuts. Outside Hudson's, a clothing store downtown (where some friends have found larger sizes.   

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5674577566675666142.post-74390823493969669752011-05-27T18:11:00.000-05:002011-05-27T18:11:07.413-05:00

As our US friends are sliding into the Memorial Day weekend, and firing up the BBQ's, we'd like to also celebrate Ruth! A very Happy Birthday to you, Ruth! We sure love you and miss you. We hope you have a wonderful, fun day -- we're thinking of you and really appreciate your friendship and all you and Art have done (and still do!) for us. You are truly a ray of sunshine.

richNnancyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12008097873344127864noreply@blogger.com0