November

I have now completed the month of November in Loja, Ecuador. This last month I went fishing with my host parents. We drove out to a little man-made lake where you  fish your own fish to take home and eat. The fishing pole was a long wooden stick. It may not be super technology but I caught 10 fish within 20 minutes. This time spent with my host parents was a very good experience. I was able to connect with them super well.
>Later on in November I had my first marching band experience. After many Saturdays having to wake up early in the morning for band practice it was finally time for the parade. Although originally meant to play the Bombo I was changed because I had missed so many practices for rotary trips. Instead I played the Tenor drum. I was given my own marching band uniform; it was awesome. Walking through the parade playing the drum amongst the other ecuadorians made me feel as part of them. When they called my school's name on the microphone as we passed the authorities, I felt so proud. Never would I have thought to be marching in the small town of Loja amongst thousands of Ecuadorian people, as if I were one of them.
> In order to keep in shape my counselors offered me to swim in their pool and use their gym. I have been going after school several times a week. It's pretty cool because I am the only one, without distractions.
> This month I went on another rotary trip. This time we went to the Amazon rainforest. On this trip I saw hundreds of different types of plants and animals; it was amazing. We stayed in a lodge literally within the jungle. However, this time I was sad to leave my town, even for just a few days. I am really becoming accustomed to this place, as if it were my true home.
>Last weekend, I went with some friends to another concert. Spanish music is really growing on me. There is something about the language that gives it its own sort of strength in emotion.
>Xenia, the other exchange student in Loja, and I, were brought to a sort of peace conference at another high school last week. We were presented as special guests. When they called my name the entire audience cheered for me. I felt rather strange, because I felt like I had done nothing to deserve applause. After the conference many students from the high school asked me to take pictures with them. It was as if I were famous. It is so amazing to be accepted by the people here. I feel at peace with myself, knowing that I am wanted. It brings me true happiness.
>Last night, I had some friends over and together we made a Mexican dish, sopaipillas. They are a delicious a treat that I used to eat back home at a local Mexican restaurant. We spent the whole night laughing and enjoying our time together. That moment when I saw all of us together laughing and just being happy I knew that exchange was the best decision I've ever made. 
 Being able to see such a different world is something that most will never ever be able to experience. I am so thankful,  even though I did miss American Thanksgiving. Three months have been completed and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.