Originally, I wanted to profile the lives of every character of this new family I’ve been a part of for the last two weeks, but because I want to accurately portray everyone, and incorporate all their quirks that make them who they are, it’s taking more time than I thought. So, bear with me while I do my best to paint a picture of these sweet people. I’ll begin with my new brother and sister, Milton and Mayra…
You can always tell when Mayra is coming by the sound of her laugh. I don’t know if she laughs because we don’t speak the same language and I am saying hilarious things on accident, or if it’s because I make weird faces when she talks, or if it’s just because she is genuinely always a happy and enthusiastic person, but no matter what the reason is, Mayra is ALWAYS laughing! And it’s contagious! Personally, I LOVE these types of people. After working all day on construction, playing with a bunch of kids and just being completely out of my element altogether, it’s nice to here her laughter.
Mayra is also quite the musical artist! Not only has she helped us learn three songs in Spanish, she sings some of them in English too. She has a beautiful voice. She also plays guitar. (without a pick, only her thumb nail) I’m sure she writes some of her own songs too. She kind of inspires me to write some songs…something I usually don’t write about…maybe we can make a song together J
It only makes sense for someone like Mayra to always be accompanied by someone like Milton. For those of you who think chivalry is dead (which I could see your point with most of the men in the states) come to Ecuador and spend a day with this man. You can see his love and appreciation for women by the way he treats his sister, Mayra. When we asked them if they were best friends, Mayra laughed (of course) and was hesitant to answer, but Milton immediately nodded his head and smiled. You can tell he loves her.
Since we are currently an all girls team, it is nice to have a guy around looking out for us. (not that we couldn’t do it ourselves, but still) When Amanda had to go to the hospital three times in one week, Milton offered to accompany her every time. Whenever we travel outside of Conocota, he comes with us to make sure we get on the right busses, and make it to our destination safely. He gave us a tour of the old city of Quito and a small market. And he never fails to ask how each and every single one of us are doing at all times throughout the day. When he talks, even though I can’t understand half of what he is saying, you can tell he is sincere by the way he speaks and the expression on his face. He treats us like we are all his sisters, and only wants the best for us.
The two of them compliment each other so well and make a perfect pair. While Mayra is loud and outgoing, Milton is calm and observant. They both contribute something special and unique to this family. I honestly feel so much love from the two of them. I wish only the best to them and their family because they deserve it!
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