I'm now in Punta Arenas, Chile, and feel like true Patagonian weather is setting in. It's really, really windy here, and quite cold, even during the day--it seemed much milder in Puerto Natales.

Although I don't have time for a full update, just thought I'd report back that the 5-day drek in Torres del Paine was amazing. It's a beautiful place, and I'm so proud of myself for successfully completing my first trek alone, and my first trek carrying all my own stuff! (Although it was a little easier because I was staying in refugios so didn't need a tent, and ate a few meals in the refugios too.) I was blessed with good weather except for the first day--hiked 4 hours in the rain--and it rained hard for just 30 minutes the last day. This being Patagonia, it sprinkled off and on every day, and was really windy, but overall it was sunny and beautiful. I didn't trek completely alone, either--met some people to hike with several of the days--but I also enjoyed the time when I did hike alone, taking pictures and going at my own (slow) pace.

This afternoon I'm taking a boat trip to Isla Magdalena to see penguins! Can't wait. It's supposed to be one of the best places to see them and a good time of year, too. Although I think it will also be damn cold out there, so I better bundle up.

There probably won't be any new pictures until I get to Buenos Aires, but you'll get to see them eventually, I promise!

I can't believe I have less than 3 weeks left. It feels like I've been gone forever, but it also seems to have flown by. I'm looking forward to some time at home, but also trying to focus on the rest of my trip and enjoy it while it lasts!