Happy Earth Day! Go pick up some trash, turn out the lights, and plant something!
So, yeah! I am home. I leave again on Friday, but let’s not talk about that right now.******
I loved Peru. I loved the kindness of the Peruvian people, the energy of Lima, the incredible food, and the experience of a world very different than mine. Turns out, I was able to limp along better in Spanish than I thought, too. Peru is a vast country, with a fascinating history and mix of cultures. I know that my way-too-short stay there was essentially like skipping a stone across the the ocean. But my brief glimpse was lovely.
Let’s roll the tape!
Plaza de Armas at the heart of the city.
Soccer game in a courtyard.
My awesome ceviche and a glass of my new favorite drink, chicha morada, made from purple corn and spices.
I even ate a lima bean, even though it’s one of the few foods I hate, because, “when in Lima…”
At the ruins of the pyramid at Huaca Pucllana, built by a pre-Incan people, the Lima. It is in the middle of Lima and is incredible.
This guy works in a bookstore in the Miraflores neighborhood – that’s his favorite book.
They’re reading Joe Hill in Peru!
And yes, it’s official: Stephanie Meyer has taken over the planet.
The 8th grade girls bookclub from the school. I ADORE the kids at the Colegio Roosevelt!
Back to the grocery store, called Vivanda, where the yogurt shelf has these goodies.
And there is half an aisle – a long aisle – devoted to evaporated condensed milk. Peruvian desserts take the concept of “sweet” to a new level.
I tried tres leches, purple corn pudding, sweet potato doughnuts with syrup, and other things I don’t remember the name of, but this (the one in the middle with the seeds) – cheesecake de maracuya – that’s right; passionfruit cheesecake, was indescribably delicious.
But the best fusion I’ve ever tasted? Peru + Japan = yumminess. Sushi topped with MANGO!
Which isn’t to say that you can’t find decent junk food, if you’re in the mood. Bembodog!!
Best sign of the trip, found in the duty-free store at the airport.
So good-bye, Peru. I can’t wait to go back!
****** I am going to Los Angeles! Can you come out and see me this weekend?
LOS ANGELES TIMES FESTIVAL OF BOOKS
12:30 – 1:30pm Young Adult Fiction Panel: “Problem Child” Location: Moore 100
Moderator: Jonathan Hunt
Panelists: Laurie Halse Anderson
Suzanne Phillips
Nate Powell
Jacqueline Woodson
2:30 – 3:30 pm Booksigning
Location: Penguin/Whale of a Tale Booth, #816
Hasta luego!