The Big Bad World

Today we were forced to enter into the Big Bad World out there after living in the safe cocoon of our little farm. Filipe came early this morning to tell us that Erselia was in labor; that meant a trip to either La Pista or Yapacani. Since there was no doctor in La Pista we headed to Yapacani.

To our surprise things appeared very normal except that there was no 'heavy traffic'. Most of the stores are open but the restaurants are closed. However, the small portable cafes were still in business. We were able to purchase the few things we needed -- the most important being toilet paper. Funny how that was not on the list of staples needed. There were some vegetables available but expensive. Thank goodness we have our own

We also picked up some construction supplies but were not able to purchase diesel, gasoline or propane. One of our friends took a couple of our propane bottles and will try to exchange them when the truck comes from Cochabamba. It is there at 10 in the morning and leaves when the bottles are sold. Diesel and gasoline might be available during the night but we were not staying that long.

On our way home we picked up someone in a town about 15 km. from our place. He told us that there were two barrels of diesel for our neighbour. We have given up trying to figure out how he purchased two barrels but we know that they need the fuel for their tractor. We are sure that we will be able to get some from them if we really need it.

We are praying that an accord will be signed on Thursday. The alternative is not something we want to think about.