The kids, Chris, and Annie took the trek of about two miles to the top of the hill to see Cristo Blanco. The walk was a bit more than we expected. 550 steps, and up about 1100 feet from the already high altitude of Cusco. We reached a total altitude of 3,701 meters, or 12,142 feet. Let's just say that some of us managed the hike better than others, but we all reached the shining statue of Christ, his arms open to greet exhausted climbers. The rest at the top included the taking of many pictures and a rest stop in a rather prickly bush for said Arzak. Following our little respite, we began the trek back down the mountain, which was a much easier and enjoyable feat than the journey up. Our traverse down wouldn't have been complete without a wild dog attack or a game of futbol con los locales. Annie and CJ hopped down a little side road on the mountain and were quickly surprised by a pack of vicious dogs. CJ, the caring and thoughtful son that he is, ditched his mother immediately - after all, one must only outrun one person. Therefore, Annie relied on her calm disposition to best the wild animals. By remaining completely still, she came away with only 1 dog bite (don't worry - the skin was not broken). 5 minutes down the mountain path, the 7 Arzaks enjoyed a 40 minute soccer game, during which the girls (namely, Jackie and Caroline) surprised los Peruanos with their soccer habilidades. Our game provided us with a friend, who brought us to his restaurante, which happened to be a small, cozy bottom floor of his house, fully equipped with a brick oven. We ordered pizzas, which may have topped ones that we've consumed in Italy.... Who would have thought?
