In the previous two postings, we now realize, we have never mentioned where we actually are! Some of you may already know, but for those who are wondering, we are living and serving in Shell, Pastaza, Ecuador.  God has brought us to this place to support the missionaries and their families as volunteer workers.  Valerie is teaching at the Nate Saint Memorial School and Garth is helping out wherever he is needed.  Our intentions are to be here for about 6 months, but we do not know what the future might hold.

Valerie has completed her first full week at the school, including a Meet the Teacher Night!  Friday evening the children and parents all gathered at the school for an open house where the expectations for the year were voiced and a social time was had.  It was strange to think that school has not even begun back in Canada, yet classes are already in full swing here.  After the formal portion of the event was over, everyone enjoyed a variety of snacks provided by the parents.  The theme seemed to be chocolate!  It seems there are no diabetics in this community of missionaries!

Old Hangar Apartment - second floor

Nate Saint House

Garth continues to help with the renovations of "the old hanger apartment" which is located across from the Nate Saint House.  In the past year, the roof and most of the second floor has been replaced because of termite damage.  Now the interior walls, electrical, plumbing, cabinets and all the other work is happening.

From the kitchen window you can see the newly restored Nate Saint House just across the driveway.  It was also termite damaged to the point of being unsafe.  A group raised the funds and sent teams that completely rebuilt the home, retaining the kitchen and radio rooms as original.  The balance of the house has been made very functional with offices, a small apartment, and a large meeting room.  Very nice for a building that was nearing demolition!

Since our last visit to Shell, we have noticed some changes and some things that remain the same.  There had been some rough and cobblestone roads that are now smooth, and there are some roads that are still torn up!  The main street has an excavator parked on it and you must walk through and around the mud to get to the meat or vegetable market!  It seems that it is business as usual even though the access is less than it should be.  At least you don't have to worry about being run down by traffic as you cross the main street!  The main highway is getting some attention also.  It seems strange to us that the road can be ripped up without having survey crews, signage or speed zones, but that is what happens!  The crews move in and tear it up......it might be repaired this week or next month but the traffic just continues on at the regular 'too fast' speed, honking and passing, with children riding in the truck boxes.  It seems every driver has some degree of road rage and it is "pedestrian beware" when you cross the road.

Living Room

Kitchen

Here are two photos of the apt. renovations.  Later I hope to post photos of the finished work.