9-18 (Thursday)

We got to sleep in this morning but we were awake by 6:00. Last night we were laughing so hard because I broke the toilet seat. Today you had to balance on on it to keep from falling on the floor.

After breakfast we took a boat across the rive to an island where we did a jungle walk. We were wearing high rubber boots provided by the hotel. We trudged through water and mud. One of the interesting things we saw were the leaf cutter ants carrying leaves to their nest. at one point there was a big Tarzen type vine that we all took turns swinging on. It was so much fun. We turned around at the giant lily pad pond.

When we got back to the lodge it was time to clean up, pack up and have lunch before saying goody-by. We paid our bar bill and then tipped freddy. When I gave him my money I also gave him a big hug. That sent him over the moon. He was staying behind with Erwin who had paid for a four day program.

We boarded the boat which was already full for our trip up river and back to civilization. Everyone got off in Iquitos except the four remaining from our original group. We went on with our new guide, Bedder Cheviez, to the Borna Village. It was kid of a touristy things: they were dressed in native costumes, the chief had his face painted and they did a little dance for us before we were expected to buy some of their wears. I bought two necklaces that I lover. Now I´m happy.

We checked into our new hotel, the Acosta, then did a little work on the internet. We decided not to go to La Paz in Bolivia because of all the trouble and rioting that is going on. We were only going there to get a flight to Lima. We´re hoping to change our ticket.

Tonight we walked to La Mason down by the river for dinner. We had a hard time finding it. One person would send us one way and the next person the other. Finally two guys from an office escorted us to the door.

Outside we talked to a professor from some college who lives in St. Petersburg, Florida. Inside there was only one person, David, from Ireland. We went over to his table to find out what dish he recommended. He was having gator chips. We invited him to eat with us and we also ordered the gator.

After dinner we walked back to the grocery store for some water, soda and laundry soap. It was about 9:00 when we got back to the hotel - just in time to do laundry! I have a sore throat and can hardly breathe.