Papallacta

Monday and Tuesday, we went to a natural hot springs about 2 hours from the assembly hall.  The drive was gorgeous and exciting, since we rented our own vehicle for this trip.  Driving in Quito is unlike any other place we have driven before...It is hair raising, to say the least.  But, we made it safely to the hotsprings.  They are naturally fed hot springs and are very secluded and picturesque.  The pictures will give you an idea of the surrounding area.  It was just breathtaking.  The boys couldn't have been happier or more exhausted, after spending most of the day swimming and splashing in the pools.  One of the funniest moments was thanks to Jack.  Among the heated pools there are also cold pools.  These are meant to be soaked in for a few minutes at a time until you get back into the hot pools.  Matt and Matt decided they were hot enough and would go for a soak in the cold pool.  Jack did not realize the water temperature and, before any of us could get the words out, he JUMPED in the freezing water!  I have never seen a child walk on water before...it was hysterical.  He could not get out of there fast enough...or breath!  Maybe that is why he came down with a nasty cold the following day?  Anyways, it was a very enjoyable and relaxing day.  We spent Monday night in one of the cabins that slept the six of us.  We made a warm fire, watched movies, and visited.  It was a fantastic couple of days.  The previous pictures are some of the highlights.  The one of Jack jumping into the freezing pool is shown.