Monkey Butt

269 kilometers (that's about 167 miles).



View of Quito

     That's the distance Ivan and I traveled on the motorcycle Monday, going from Quito to Shell.  It was my first big trip on the back of the motorcycle.  To prepare I looked up "motorcycle jargon" so that I could not only look the part but talk the talk.  Thus, "monkey butt:  when riding for hours on end, your rear end becomes uncomfortable and becomes sore, often the result of chafing" (truth). 
     I'd be lying if I didn't say I was a little scared to head out on the open road for hours on end.  For the first hour as we made our way out of the capital city of Quito I was hugging Ivan so tightly he may have suffered from slight suffocation.  I also thought, my arms are not strong enough to last like this the whole way home!  At one of our early stops along the way, Ivan gently reminded me that I needed to ease up on the grip because I was making it hard for him to drive.  So, taking his advice, I relaxed a little bit and started to actually look around me and enjoy the view and enjoy the ride.


On our way to Latacunga

     I've been back and forth from Quito more than I like, especially as we completed all my necessary paperwork but it was a different experience making the trek on the motorcycle.  I got to enjoy the freedom of stopping along the way and noticing different things.  I was always keeping an eye on the clouds, praying that we wouldn't get stuck in the rain, since neither of us has appropriate rain gear for the motorcycle.  And for a good stretch of the ride there were some foreboding dark clouds off to one side, but they never got close to us and we remained dry the entire way home!  (and that my friends, is a miracle!).  As I sat behind Ivan, taking in the sights, it was such a comfort to know that he was in control and knew the way and all I had to do was be with him.

     He would find a spot to stop and point out something interesting or beautiful to look at.  It was a journey together and we enjoyed it.  I was reminded that God invites us to join Him on a journey as well.  He wants to take time with us and stop to point out His majesty and His character and His love.  I don't want to live overwhelmed by life and just blindly clinging to Him to "get through it".  I want to feel the security of His guidance and open my eyes to the things and people around me. 

You will show me the path of life;

In Your presence is fullness of joy

Psalm 16:11

Yes, this is what we paid to fill up the tank.

"Chuchucarra" infamous dish in Latacunga

Twisties – A part of a road that has many curves, turns and bends.
Twisties are very much sought after when riding a motorcycle.