Good news, folks: I shan't be getting deported. Nor will I have to pay a ridiculously hefty exit fee for overstayng my visa. Because I tend to be a terrible planner, I inadvertently planned to stay two days after the expiration of my visa. I assumed that all I would haved to do would be take my passport to some agency and have them stamp it and everthing would be settled. Not so easily done. I ended up needing a plethora of documents such as proof of financial solvency to remain in the country, a signed letter to the minister of the exterior pleading my case, copies of roundtrip airline tickets, forms with passport sized photos, etc. Luckily, I went last week to start the process, or I would have been in trouble. Thus far, I have had to miss classes and sit in the waiting room of the Agency of the Exterior three times (it's only open untin 12), and I have to go once more tomorrow to pick everthing up. All I need is an extension of two days. Gotta love beauracracy.

It's hard to believe it, but I have a whole two days left until I journey home. Friday I will face my final exam (of death). I am extremely excited to see my family, friends, church, and just be home. Of course I'm also excited about heading back to Bryan in January. As I had anticipated, leaving is a little bittersweet. I will definitely miss the friends I have made here, my profedssors, host family, and all of the people who like to try out their English on me. My time here has been wonderful, and I thank God fo the opportunity to experience the rich culture, history, language, and people of Ecuador.

I have attached a picture of one of the most beautiful churches in Quito. It's called the Compania de Jesus, and was founded by the Ignatius Loyola. Granted, the walls are covered with unorthodox art of a divinized Mary and venerated saints, but is one of the most beautiful buildings I have ever set foot in. My friend Dolores and I actually attended a special mass during the fiestas de Quito in the Compania. The two of us thought it would be a pretty rich cultural experience to witness a special mass in such a historic and gorgeous church. There was also a famous choral group from Spain slated to perform. When we arrived, we discovered that it was invitation only. From all appearances, it weemed as if only Quito's rich and famous were invited. With a bit of sleight of hand, Dolores and I finally managed to gain entrance.

Yesterday, I involuntarily had a major gringo moment. I was attempting to flag down a taxi during rush hour, when a car pulled up beside of me. Inside were a guy and girl about my age, who appeared to be Latino. They asked me (in Spanish) "Where do we need to go to leave Quito?" Well, I could easily have pointed them North, South, East, or West, and even tell them what buses to take to leave the city, but tell them which roads or highways to follow I certainly could not. I began to apologize and tell them that I wasn't from the area when they burst out laughing and said "we know!" I probably should have realized that two Latinos wouldn't ask someone who looks about as Caucasian as possible for directions. :-)