Sharing with ninos y ninas

Having experienced most of what Lima has to offer during daylight hours, I have devoted the last couple of days to getting a taste of the city at night. In the process, I have learned a great deal about Peruvian nightlife and I have found that it is nothing like going out in the states. The primary difference is that the party generally starts around midnight, and often lasts into the wee hours of the morning. Last night, for example, finally came to an end around 5AM. Im not sure what it is, but young people here, including myself, just do not seem to get tired. That is, until the next day, when you are more or less non-functional. Determined not to waste even a single day, I fought the urge to sleep in this morning and instead opted to get out of the hostel for espresso and waffles at a local cafe ($3 total), as well as a thirty minute massage ($10). I also managed to hunt down a Lima Allianza futbol jersey for around $7. All in all, probably the best $20 morning I have ever had.
The rest of the day was spent relaxing and practicing my espanol, which I am pleased to report is progressing rapidly. This evening I ventured to the local gellatto shop to reward myself for not letting fatigue get the best of me. As I walked and ate my gellatto, I was approached by a very poor little girl asking for a bite. There are signs all over the city warning tourists not to give money to these children. I learned from a local friend that they are almost always being forced to beg by their parents who, regretably, often make significant amounts of money putting their children to work. Anyway, there are no signs that warn against bites of gellatto. Much to the nina's delight, I gave her a big one. Not two minutes later, a small boy came up and made a similar request. I began to realize I was fighting an uphill battle when a third child approached me, so I took one last bite and gave him the rest. I may not have had my fill, but the whole experience left a big smile on my face :)
Calling it an early night... looking forward to seeing the girls in the morning!
ALSO, responses to posted comments-
Aria- Glad you are enjoying the blog. I will DEFINITELY keep the girls safe :) It really isn't as dangerous down here as it is made out to be. Not to worry my friend!

Ryan- Hey pal. I hope you didn't end up puking when you heard about the cow heart. Don't ever try it, I am certain you would not like it :) I have not seen the mountains yet, but I will be there in about a week. I'll let you know then how they stack up to our Rocky Mtns. My friends are pretty cool down here, but nowhere near as cool as you. Nobody is! Also, thanks for the tip on the sunscreen- I think you are probably right. Thanks for the post buddy , it made my day. Keep them coming!

Dr. Rhodes- Like I said in the message, I picked up a sweet Alianza jersey today from a local vendor. Unfortunately I am told that no games will be played while I am here, but I think I will be able to catch one in Argentina in late Feb. I sure hope so- it would be a crime to come down here without seeing any futbol! Also, please keep me posted on what happens with your excellence in teaching award!

My family, Lauren's family, and Nina's family- thanks to all of you for being so supportive. We cannot wait to share many great stories with you upon our return!