Birthday Adventures & More!

South America » Ecuador » Centre » Baños
April 3rd 2021

Published: April 17th 2021

Even during a pandemic I managed to enjoy my bday! The day before (which is always Valentine's Day) fell on a Sunday so I arranged for an outdoor luncheon with 10 friends. The best restaurant in Baños, Swiss Bistro, had just re-opened in their new location -- the gardens of a lovely hotel (Ali Samay) - centrally located but not well-known (they mostly work with tour groups). I wanted to help the ... Read Full Entry

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Jill Sare

Sra Sare

I first came to Ecuador in the late 1980's to teach English in Quito. I fell in love with this country, the natural beauty, the warmth and generosity of the people. I went on to work in international education on nearly every continent, but Ecuador kept calling me back. This Chicago girl has a "latina soul"! I've now been back in Ecuador, living here as a permanent resident since 2006. I have done all different kinds of work, from private teaching to teacher training to working with American volunteers as a driver/interpreter to filling in as a substitute hotel manager. I like to keep my sched... full info

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Mt Chimborazo

Taita Chimbo's summit is highest point on the globe - due to the equatorial bulge it is further from the earth's core than Everest!

Clouds over the Amazon

From Shana's former farm in Cumandá - Huge views out over the Amazon Basin where the Pastaza River widens and quickens

Backside of Tungurahua

Driving home from Quito...approaching Baños, here's the view that greets me. Delicate snowy rivulets tracing lines down from the summit...

Whipped Cream Clouds

Early morning drive from Cuenca with stunning valley views at every turn.

Devil's Cauldron Falls

The Río Verde tumbles through a rocky narrow stretch before emptying into the mighty Pastaza River.

Lupe Braves the Falls

At Pailon del Diablo intrepid visitors can walk up close to the crashing, splashing falls. Powerful shower!!

...and CiCi likes it too!

Posing with the repurposed tie and tire ottoman

It's Time for Yoga!

Chiquita is warming up my mat! She is the sweetest lovey girl...much more affectionate than my CiCi is!

Majestic Heliconia

Dropping down the eastern slopes of the Andes, these become more common along rivers in the Amazon Basin

Taking Off...

Three steps forward, three steps back, two running leaps and I magically lifted off the ground...my heart swelled with excitement and emotion.

The Host Tree

Moss-covered branches are strewn with bromeliads of many kinds.

Triple Blooms

Supposedly these beauties bloom for just one day. I don't now their actual name...do you?

Purple Fuchsia

Impossibly vivid colors

Sluicing Rains

The rubberized tarp on the truckbed collected gallons of rainwater -- impossible to drain without getting wet!

Orquídeas

I'm becoming an 'orchi-holic' -- so many types!

Future Mosaic

Love this cement butterfly seat, just waiting for colorful broken tiles!

Lively Fuchsia

Hearty beauty!

Princesa the Salesgal

Check out her toenails and earbows! Yes, we bought some blankets at this shop!

Seconds Warehouse

Shelves upon shelves of beautiful ceramic ware. I was like a kid in a candy shop!

Mosaic Firepit

...on Julia's rooftop terrace. Amazing outdoor spaces with stellar views.

Disinfect Shoes

Another helpful reminder...but is it really necessary?

17th April 2021

bonnie moreno
non-member comment

birthday adventures
Happy belated birthday Jill. Your flying adventure sounds like so much fun, so glad you got to do it. I am always so happy to read your blog & see what new & exciting things you are doing. Take care & be safe.

19th April 2021

Michelle Deutch
non-member comment

YAY FOR YOU!!!!
I'm so excited for your flight into the atmosphere!!!!! how amazing for you!!!! And your bday celebrations sounded delish too! The gate and the tie poofs are beautiful! Your place is the total amalgamation of all of your adventures, memories and creativity! Ya know I love that hand bridge and I've seen the asian version. I've had both doses of Pfizer as of Thursday and the 1st 24 hours were horrible, but i'm better now. Love you!!!!!

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