Going home -artifacts

Listen to NPR story

Artifacts have long been used for gathering knowledge and to search for information about ancient cultures.  The link above discus artifacts that had been researched by Yale and how the country of Peru wanted them returned after many years.  While many if not most of us would not ever consider taking another countries artifacts for keeping in our own home, we many times 'hijack' culture, music, or religious ideas for our own use.  While some would say repeating what others do should be taken as a complement, we must be careful that we do not cheapen the ideas behind these customs.  As we travel again to Peru and especially the Inca sites this year let us enjoy and admire their wisdom and grace without the need to take them home and attempt to adopt them as our own.

Food in Peru

Food in Peru is tremendous and is one of the things I look forward to doing: eating the variety of tremendous food.  What many do not realize is how many kinds of potatoes there are.  According to Wikipedia there are 3000 species.  But according to the International Potato Center International Potato Center Link to learn more: there are at least 5300 varieties.  
So for all of us who are traveling to Peru and those of you at home who would like to learn more, take the time to read about the amazing potato and how this tremendous crop helps people across the planet.  The center also tracks the cultural influences of the potato and how people have planted, cared, ate and nurtured this beautiful plant.
Peace!

Meet Dr. Darcy Krueger

The most exciting thing I am looking forward to Peru is that it will be the first time I am returning to South America since I served a two year mission in Argentina when I was 19.  I want to go because I loved serving others then and I believe God has blessed me with the opportunity to learn medical skills and expertise and this is a way I can show Him my gratitude and give back to others. 

My favorite song is "I am a Child of God".  I don't think it is well known outside LDS circles but it is easy to learn and I can bring both English and Spanish versions to share if anyone is interested.

DK

Getting Ready

By now we have received our packing lists and are checking it over carefully.  One thing to note that Peru in June is winter!  You will need winter clothing for the temperatures and plan for the average high of 66 and average low of 59.  Normally we would think this temperate to be very moderate and rather nice, however you must remember you will be traveling from very warm and hot weather.  Your body will need to adjust.  I recommend a layer approach with a jacket for the evening.

What I usually do is go to my closet and drawers and put my winter clothes that I am ready to give up and take them to Peru.  Then I go to the goodwill or garage sales to buy the rest.  This way all my clothes can stay in Peru! 
Peace!

Georgia