As we depart the lifestyle of Ecuadorian families, we embark on few neat experiments. First let's play with some clocks which don't move.
This clock works 354 days a year...with the only exception on the equinoxes. There are two equinoxes every year – in September and March – when the sun shines directly on the equator and the length of day and night is nearly equal. Also interesting, the length of day on the equator only varies by 5-10 mins. No need for Daylight savings time!
If this photo was taken in another six months, the shadow would be below the center line (O-->E line). Do you know what time it is?
This clock works 354 days a year...with the only exception on the equinoxes. There are two equinoxes every year – in September and March – when the sun shines directly on the equator and the length of day and night is nearly equal. Also interesting, the length of day on the equator only varies by 5-10 mins. No need for Daylight savings time!
If this photo was taken in another six months, the shadow would be below the center line (O-->E line). Do you know what time it is?
The correct time is 11:09AM.
Here's another version of clock with no moving parts.
With that bright red line so ostensibly drawn on the ground, what could be more intriguing than to test the old which way does the water flush theorem? Yup, on the equator straight down, Northern Hemisphere counter clockwise, and Southern clockwise! Notice the globe mounted behind Kelly's head. If you spin the globe by pulling it towards the wash basin, a person on Kelly's side would say the globe is spinning counter clockwise (North America) . Likewise, continue spinning the globe the same, but now step around to the other side of the globe (Australia end). We've not changed the spin on the globe, but it person would say it's spinning clockwise.
I hope that none of you imbibe in your alcohol while to you drive on the equator. Apparently, the standard "close your eyes and walk the line" from tow to heal is really, really tough on the equator. Life with confused magnetism is not easy!
Next up egg university. Sometimes you need to think long and hard about what is on your life bucket list. Until today, I've never pondered the personal satisfaction that I might attain by balancing an egg on nail. Supposedly, because gravity is less on the equator this feat is much easier (only possible?) here. Nonetheless, the stage has been set.
 |  |
And for all of our hard studies, we are officially documented as graduating from Egg University. If I actually had a facebook page, I think I would like this on my professional accomplishments:
Heck, it seems my "good idea fairy" is getting the best of me today. Now we have upped the ante and memorialized this visit by stamping my passport! I hope that one day I am not marooned in a 3rd world country for this deed!
