My breakfast this morning.
Today was the day. We got to go to the ranch. I was so excited, I ate a great meal for breakfast at the hotel. I asked the server what the fruit I described yesterday was (the yellow orange thing) and he told me it was melon. I am pretty sure we just didn’t understand each other., but I still ate and enjoyed it. We began our long trip with Basílica del Socorro. It is a very famous cathedral that started with a statue of the Virgin Mary was being brought from Brazil and when it reached this point, the ox stopped moving. They would only continue if they were not carrying the statue, so the people took this as a sign and built a church. It is a pilgrimage sight for some and a large number of people walk from Buenos Aires to Basílica del Socorro. The cathedral was so beautiful.
Basílica del Socorro.
Me and a horse!
We completed our drive and arrived at the ranch. I was expecting more of a cowboy style, but this ranch seem more low-key. We began with cheese, meat, and empanadas for refreshments. We explored around a little before our meal. Lunch was very impressive. I would have eaten less for breakfast if I knew the quantity of meat we would be provided. I believe Grant said it was around 10 courses, which consisted of a man bringing us large pieces of meat on a plate. Shoutout to my Dad, he would have loved it. The strangest was definitely the blood sausage. The taste was very distinct and I do not think I was a fan.
My place setting for lunch.
Adriana’s lunch because she is vegan.
After our meal, we began exploring the ranch. I asked Grant many questions about life, Catholicism, and random facts, so that is always interesting. Afterwords, I played a decent amount of ping pong. I would like to highlight Lynnea’s willingness to play with us and her impeccable ping pong ability. Maria and I rode the bikes around the loop of the ranch and later walked with Elise around the same path. We saw horses and cattle throughout our journey. We visited a small farm, which really brought me back to my Lancaster County roots.
Ping Pong!!
Maria and I on our bikes with helmets #safetyfirst!
Ponies/Horses, Me, Maria (L-R).
I would say a highlight of the day was trying archery. After a few practice arrows, I locked in and was able to hit the target. If I would have had the chance for another arrow, I am confident I could do it again. We then returned back to the hotel after the long day.
Our natural archery abilities.
I hit the target!!!
As much fun as today was, tomorrow is a very special one, it’s Mother’s Day. Many women figures in my life have been there for me other the years, so I would like to emphasize that to be celebrated on Mother’s Day, you do not need to be a biological mother. Needless to say, my biological mother is who I call mom. I would not be able to be here without everything that my mother does and truly would not be the person I am today. She is such a role model for me in my life and I hope to be more like her when I am older. She has taught me the importance of fulfilling your dreams and staying motivated. Her selfishness is so evident over the years of raising my brother and I. Her faith, kind nature, and determination are all qualities I hope to gain. From every ride to practice when I was young to every call I have with random questions in college, I know I can always depend on her. I love you so much, Mom. Truly blessed to be your daughter.
My beautiful Grandma and Mom with my brother and I.
My amazing Mom and I.