Cuzco

She sits on the stairs, wrinkled face and crooked hands. I wonder how she manages to make such beautiful hats, scarves, mittens and even purses. Yet as I pass and say "Hola" her hands steady work at a new green hat. We can't communicate much, but we both try. Her name is Jesusa and right away she attempts to tell me the meaning...that it's the girl form of Jesus. I think she's Catholic of sorts. I'm a regular now...and have passed by her several times in the last 24 hours so she longer asks me to buy her goods. We just chat one or two word phrases. I wish that I could speak more to her than this. I try to tell her, her work is good. She smiles, I smile and then I walk back down the stairs again.

We are in Cuzco, just two blocks up from the main square. It doesn't seem far...right? Oh but I didn't mention it's two blocks up a steep hill. Even people who live at this attitude get out of breath so you can just imagine how short of breath a forefinger can become. I like it though...it's like conquering a challenge sort of like running. And the view is simply breathtaking from the window. Mountains in the background with the city between. I feel like I should be in a movie.

Actually there was one today. On the main square...multiple cameras and TONS of security. It was just one of the many things Erin and I saw on our 4+ hour walk. Yep, we walked about the entire town. Children in blue school uniforms to men in white masks setting off fireworks and playing music, we about saw it all. Accidentally getting off the main path, we walked quickly through an area of town I am sure most tourist haven't seen. Two men were building a house out of mud bricks, lots of markets and raw meat with flies... the streets just went on. Good thing Erin and I have a good sense of direction!!!

Tomorrow off to the Sacred Valley.