Dear Readers:

We continue our photo, writing and other assignments as we explore more of Ecuador, this time the many micro climates leading gradually down from Cuenca to Loja and Vilcabamba.  

Cuenca, Ecuador, Dancers, Photo by Dave HarbourWe cannot speak too highly of the City of Cuenca, Ecuador, Convention and Visitors Bureau, Photo by Dave Harbourdelectable, organic food and the sweetness of the indigenous people and courtesy of Spanish descendants–from children to shopkeepers to executives.  The cultural offerings challenge any accomplishments in the performing and visual arts of which we are aware and the scenery, wildlife and consistently moderate climate make visiting here a true joy.  

Yesterday I had the additional honor, as a former Anchorage Chamber of Commerce Chairman to provide photographic services for the Chamber’s annual celebration of visitors (NGP Photo).  

Guests could walk down the stairs from the Cathedral Todos Los Santos to El Puente Roto (Broken Bridge).  There, a Saturday Market-like setting greeted visitors who enjoyed indigenous music and dancing in the 70 degree setting, complete with complimentary local foods and booths describing telecommunications, senior assisted living, finance, TravelMed surgeries, job hunting and local outdoor and indoor events galore.  One Ex-Pat local couple was sitting on a big rock by the River Cuenca, Ecuador, Ex-Pat, Lovers, Photo by Dave Harbourenjoying the music and magic of the day Consuelo Jimbo, Homero Ortega, Panama Hat, Iconic model, Photo by Dave Harbour(NGP Photo).  I was happy to again encounter — following an earlier trip in July to the factory — Consuelo Jimbo (NGP Photo) of the Homero Ortega Company.  Consuelo is an iconic model for the company, seen in magazines and posters around the world.  Here, without having to watch her fingers work their magic, she weaves a ‘Panama Hat’, made famous by many films but actually originated and still made today in Ecuador.

Today comes a new adventure and departure from the business of Cuenca–a road trip from the higher ground here through some of the most beautiful mountains and valleys anywhere to the Valley of Longevity I have long wanted to photograph.

Few citizens here speak English forcing me to seek greater mastery of a language of my youth.  Though I miss my family every minute, the adventure itself is fulfilling: poignant and full of new and colorful sights, nomadic challenges, and a very important quest for understanding at this special time of my life.

If readers have questions about this trip or wish to make comments, please feel free to do so though it might be sometime before you have a response.

Meanwhile, never fear, the energy reporting continues tomorrow, in these Notes From the Road.

Your interest means much.  Be well.

Dave