Hello All, Well the bad news was that the whole Miss Universe thing fell through. Not quite sure what the problem was, but I watched on tv just like the rest of you. Oh well, it is not the end of the world. Besides, I am not sure that spending the evening being reminded that there lots of women taller, skinnier, prettier and more talented than myself would be too good for my self esteem! I was a bit shocked when Miss USA did not win and considered making a scene, then in the light of the upcoming civil unrest, I decided a low profile would be best. Today there is a national soccer game vs. Columbia. I wanted to go but am glad that I decided not to when I watched all the military helicopters, troops, guns etc. head for the stadium to keep order during and after the game. This would be another event that I think would be best if I watch for the tv at home. Hopefully Ecuador wins or things could get really ugly! School is going fine. Challenging yet fun. The girls at the orphanage are whipping through their homework now because they realize that I will play games with them if they complete it. I am taking my deck of uno cards today. (Thank God I brought the directions in spanish!) They have changed our schedule for the last two weeks. We will tutor for english classes at a private school on Mondays and Fridays and go to the orphanage on Tues, Wed and Thurs. It does not matter to me. Either way and I am fine. This weekend, a few girls from school and myself are heading to a small town called Octovalo. It is where the big open market is for handcrafts. (Joe - I may need more money after this weekend!) We are only planning on spending the day and return home that night with all of our treasures. It should be great fun! Comments: They use the US dollar here so sorry mom, but I feel like I am spending my/Joes money. I would not recommed a trip down here for any of my family at this point. Besides the cold water and no water pressure issue, without knowing any of the language, it is a challenge living here. I recommed that you all stay at home and live vicariously through me. I do not mind at all. Regarding the political unrest. It is concerning, but I am staying on top of the news and not too worried at this point. I am glad that I have the opportunity to experience this, but at the same time am not confident enough to jump in the middle of it so do not worry. That is about it for now. I need to run off to work. I will post again after the weekend or if anything drastic happens before then. I look forward to hearing from all of you. It really helps with the home sickness. Love and kisses to all, Amy