Cultural Day in Quito

We began our day today with an orientation to the ministries of Youth World to learn about all of the ways that they are ministering to the people of Ecuador. After that we had lunch at a local resturant then were off for an amazing day taking in some of the cultural sites of Quito today.
We went to tour the Basilica del Voto Nacional which was began in 1892 and is actually still under construction. This quite the experience, as we were able to climb to the top of the bell towers which were 250 feet above the ground below.
We then walked through old town which has so much old world architecture and streets that make Summit Park seem like a walk in the park. Our walk ended up in a plaza that is surrounded by yet another church, city hall, the palace of the arch bishop and the presidential palace. After some history about the country of Ecuador we walked up to the presidential palace to take a picture with the guards and we were asked if we would like to tour the palace. This was the first time that any group with youth world has ever had this opportunity, and it was incredible. This palace has been in existence for over 400 years and was filled with history and culture.
Tomorrow we will get on the bus with our driver Julio and he will take us 6 hours into the jungle to the town of Tena where we will stay for the next 5 days. We may not have an opportunity to update the blog while in the jungle but will try do so when we get back.

On the right side of this page are a few more pics of the last 2 days. Thanks for praying for us, we are learning a lot and having a blast.

We are here!

We have arrived in Quito. Almost 24 hours, 3 flights, 2 fantastic airline meals, 1 nearly lost bag. Most of us were able to get some sleep on a couple of flights, but are looking forward to a bed tonight. It is very cool and cloudy here which we are told should be the norm. We just finished getting settled in the hostel where we will be for the next two days and will be having dinner at a leadership training center for former street kids. Cell service is not quite working how we had anticipated so posts might be less frequent...but we are here and we are safe. thanks for your prayers.

fun fact of the day: The Quito runway is the shortest international runway in the world, which translates to a very, very fast landing! Fun, Fun.

July 8, 2009 They're off!

The team left this afternoon at 3:45pm after prayer and good byes.

Permission Form

As was included in the letter last week, we just found out that you need a letter from both parents that is notarized stating that you can leave the country with me. Kevin and Debra have the letters - make sure and have that done next week and give it back to Reeses.

Final preparations

Hey guys, time is winding down and we are getting closer to our trip! Some more information to think about this year.

Yesterday was the deadline for your money to be turned in. If you have not turned it in, PLEASE DO SO TODAY! If you have questions about your balance call me and I will help you.

Teresa found a place to buy used scrubs for $4 per pair. These would be a great option to wear in the jungle because they are light and will pack easily.

If you have not finished your vaccines, you need to do that no later than next monday June 15. Also make sure that you have an up-to-date card with all of your shots recorded. You will need to carry that with you while we are on the trip.

When you are packing make sure that you pack all of your medications in your backpack, in case your luggage gets lost.

If you have not brought your passport in for us to make copies, you need to do that this week as well.

These are very important details that cannot be overlooked, so please be diligent about getting these things done.

Thanks,

Brian

Next meeting

Hey guys, the adults just met this afternoon to talk about the trip and cover some details. We are all very excited for the trip! Our next meeting will be next Sunday, May 31 after the second service. We will be using this meeting to prepare some materials that will be used for teaching and serving kids while we are in Ecuador.

We will meet in the loft until 2:30pm and will provide lunch for you.

You need to bring your passport to this meeting so that we can make a copy of it.

We also need your parents to come for 30 minutes so that we can give them some important information about the trip.

Final amount for trip

Hey guys, I just wanted to give you an update on the final amount that you will need for the trip. To cover the airfare, L.A. stopover and youth world fees each person is responsible for $1850.00. This amount is broken down as follows.

support from MLC $500
initial deposit $100
airfare deposit $500
support from letters $??? based on money personally received from letters
servant sale $125
rummage sale $??? based on total amount of money raised
car wash $??? based on total amount of money raised

If these amounts do not add up to $1850.00, then you will be responsible for the balance. This balance will need to be paid in full by June 7.

In addition to this you will need to bring cash for 7 meals while on layovers in airports. Keep in mind that an average meal in an airport costs $7-$10.

If you plan on buying souvenirs while on the trip you will need to bring extra cash for that as well.

You may now bring your money from support letters to me at the church office during the week or on Sunday.

Call me with any questions. Have a great week off of school!!