I'm writing from Lima, Peru. Got tagged for a trip to bring an airplane down for a maintenence check. It's really a tough job, but sombody's got to do it. We got here and were supposed to fly out on Friday. but the plane wasn't ready and we won't leave until Wed. There's 4 of us here and we've really been struggling. Havana rum, big Cuban cigars, Argentine steaks. Life is rough. Just got back from a Swiss restaraunt. Steak, veggies, beer. Is there anything else?? It's early spring down here, so the weather is nice. The people are way beyond friendly. Anywhere we go we feel at home. Very comfortable.

Had an earthquake th other day. 5:48 am. I was already awake and dressed, and when the building started making popping noises, I was out the door before it stopped shaking. I can move pretty when I have to. Ain't no such thing as a "little one" when you're in a 20 story bldg. I was out of there pretty quick. Nobody hurt, no damage in Lima, but it got everyones attention.

Got some good stuff for Sam, my mom, sister, and niece. Great deals on alpaca wooly stuff. I have tomorrow off, so i'll probably wander off and do more shopping. Nice place. I haven't spent much time in South America before, but I'm impressed. Good people, great food, beautiful scenery. I know that one of the first things I'll do when I get home is hunt down a Peruvian cookbook. They have stuff that brings tears to my eyes. Absolutely wonderful.