Horseback riding

Today was a fun day. We had been waiting for a sunny day to drive up into the Volcán Baru highlands to a town called Cerro Punta and go horseback riding, or as Jacob has been saying, backhorse riding. We took 2 horses up the trails for about an hour. We passed a lot of Ngobe houses, (pronounced no-bay) who are one of the native tribes in Panamá. They are very simple people, honest and hardworking, and always with a smile. Many of them have built their huts right on the steep hillsides where they grow and tend to their crops. Our guide was a Panamanian, Ezekiel, who was extremely helpful and humble. The scenery was breathtaking, and the experience wonderful.

We stopped at the local market on the way home. I bought a hammock that I had been eyeing. I love my afternoon siestas in it. It's blue, and Riva likes it so much she wants to get a pink one. Silly girl.

Last night we went to the Spanish Meeting for the first time here. I was expecting to be warmly welcomed, as we are accustomed to in Jehovahs organization, but what we experienced was so much more. Everyone in the congregation took the time to come up and introduce themselves, meet us and have a brief conversation. All the young children loved Jacob, and he enjoyed making new amigos. Even he looked surprised with how friendly everyone was. It was enjoyable to meet the Spanish friends, as we will be in the ministry with them quite a bit the next few weeks.

Well, we made it a week so far in Panama. Seems like time is flying by. Hard to believe we will be leaving in just over 2 weeks. We want to travel to Bocas del Toro, near the Atlantic ocean for a few days as well, so we may be in Volcán less than that. Still need to climb Baru, the volcano. We will spend the night at the summit, and watch the sunrise in la mañana. Its 10,500 feet, and the only spot in the world you can see both Atlantic and Pacific oceans at the same time. A couple of brothers here in Panama are planning on going with me. A bit too tough for Jacob, so just me this time. There is also zip-lining in Boquette, a few towns over, perhaps next week.

We caught a glimpse of our roommate last night. We have a gecko that lives in the house. He runs across the walls like he was running on the floor. He is harmless, and actually eats bugs, so we love him.

Location:Cerro Punta