Peaceful spirit

Day 8 of our little Mongolian campaign.

Today we woke up at 8:30am, had some already prepared breakfast, and got to ride the lovely horses, which were saddled and prepared while we were eating.

We hopped on our newly introduced companions and rode for nearly 45 minutes across grassy plains, mud, and riverbeds. I really enjoyed the ride, even though I ended up with the rowdy one of the gang. Naturally, we had a few trust issues at first! Except for a couple of stumbles, where every single one made me feel like I was about to be buried under a massive horse - it was a really cool experience.

After the ride, we climbed down a cliff into a river valley. Sadly, there was no waterfall in sight because we're a bit too early in the season and there isn't much water yet. Nonetheless, it was a nice, relaxing hike down to the river.

As we got back, our guide and driver had almost finished preparing lunch – a BBQ. So a few minutes later, we ate in our yurt together and had some homemade vodka, which is traditionally made out of milk, to toast each other. We somehow manage to communicate really well, even without words. In case I haven't mentioned it yet: our guide speaks a little English and helps with the main translations, while our driver only speaks Mongolian. We're learning from each other every single day, getting by perfectly with just signs and gestures. :)

After lunch, I walked up a hill nearby to help digest the sheep we ate.
Such a beautiful expanse of open grassy plains and winding riverbeds in this valley... The peacefulness that it carries within... I don't miss much in such moments.

Okay, today I'm a bit early with writing my daily blog, but like this I can relax and enjoy my evening without thinking of you guys – no responsibilities left for today :D.

Good night and good day ;)Read more