Exploring Shell

The boys and I ventured out this morning before the heat of the day became oppressive and before the threat of afternoon thunderstorms may catch us in a torrential downpour. We crossed the steel suspension bridge to try find the Post Office. We couldn't really locate the Post Office, and since it is closed on weekends we didn't try too hard. We came across a soccer match complete with cheering fans and vendors serving ice cream and stayed to watch some of the match - very talented. A little grass might be nice but with all of the rain, the sandy "field" is probably more functional than a field of mud. The streets were filled with the aroma of streetside "fast food" vendors. (Let the buyer beware!)

We then walked across town through the "hardware" section of town on a search for the waterpark at the creek near the edge of town. Workers are moving rocks, mixing cement, and generally looking busy as they appear to be renovating the park. Unfortunately the E. coli count in the water is significant and not really recommended for water activities. Too bad.


We saw some creative approaches to sharing a bicycle and have always tried to obey (or imitate) the signs along the street.






Though we see some serious trauma at the hospital, my on-call responsibilities have been modest. I was called in to assist with intubation of a head injured patient that needed a medivac to Quito, then again for a man that had fallen while intoxicated and dislocated his shoulder. I have felt comfortable in my role here though I wish that I knew Spanish and could more easily communicate with patients and staff. Our surgeons change next week so I will see what adjustments need to be made.

Gary