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Home Sweet Home

I am amazed by how much I feel at home here in Atacapi.   The week I spent in Quito was fun but I missed my family so much.  I was wondering how they were doing and wanted to know how the baby was because my parents said that the other children had spent months in the hospital.  I loved my time in Quito but there is nothing like coming home to your family.

After the long bus ride I walked in the door and my whole family was there to greet me.  It was great to see them.  The kids just wanted to play.  I was so tired but could not help myself, so we played for about an hour until dinner.  They just kept yelling “¡Tía venga!” (‘Aunt come here!’) I was glad to be able to play with them.

Dinner was great.  It was plátano, which I missed while in Quito, and chicken and rice. My family asked what I had eaten in Quito and I tried to tell them rice.  Unfortunately I could not say arroz.  I just was not able to speak Spanish after four days of only English.  We laughed for about 5 minutes at my mistake. Looking back it was pretty funny because arroz is such a simple word. After this wonderful dinner I went straight to bed and slept like a log.

There is nothing like coming home after a trip.  I was so glad to eat a home cooked meal, and sleep in my bed.  I missed my family so much and the greeting they gave me when I came home was wonderful.  I have a home here in Atacapi and it is wonderful.

Heather Kurtz

About Heather Kurtz


Heather is an actress, musician, and athlete. An assistant leader to a Daisy Girl Scouts Troop and recipient of the Girl Scout Gold Award, she spends her time whitewater kayaking, mountain climbing, playing piano, and practicing percussion, which she has performed in All County competitions and at solo festivals. Heather has also completed an Iron Girl Triathlon, proving her athletic versatility and drive.

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