Update!

I promised not to keep giving strike updates, so what are we doing now? Well, a week ago Rick's small group made it to Peru. Originally we had planned to head to the jungle on that Tuesday. However, there had been utter chaos in the area and some killings. The Indigenous were in mourning over the deaths. Then an indefinite strike was called which really had us all doubting about the trip into any part of the jungle. We all decided to wait that out in Lima and the group got to take in some of the sights. On Thursday we rented a tour bus to take everyone downtown Lima. We rode around almost 2 hours just trying to find an open route to that part of town. When we finally got close to the Presidential Palace we got off the bus to start walking and there was a wonderful aroma of tear gas. The police told us to get back on the bus since there had been some riots. So basically we spent 3 hours seeing Lima from the bus window. Many took advantage and just napped. :)

The good news is that on Saturday evening we were able to fly into Tarapoto to start the jungle part of this journey. The SAM pilot is spending the night so that we can get as early a start as possible. It will take 7 flights to get everyone into San Antonio. Everyone is excited. The road to Yurimaguas is still blocked. Ken had planned on going to Yurimaguas by road today but wasn't able to do so. He will be dropped off there on the first flight, get our things and then come back to Tarapoto until the last flight to help everyone.

Please pray for safety and an enjoyable time.