Tourist Time...

I had a couple of days to do some touring between the building portion of my trip and the facilitator training.  During one of those days I went with a couple new friends on a tour of Curitiba.  We started out early on the city bus to the historical center of Curitiba where we caught a double decker tour bus that took us to 25 scenic places.  We were able to get off the bus at 4 locations to take a closer look around.  

Riding the city bus packed with people.

Riding on the tour bus.

We stopped first at the Jardim Botanico, a classy greenhouse with exotic plants and beautiful gardens.

Overlooking the beautiful landscaping.

Taking a little workout break along the way.  Curitiba has lots of places to just stop and exercise.

Our second stop was at the Bosque Alemao where we hiked a fun brick path through the 'jungle' that led to this structure.  I couldn't resist climbing up here for a picture :)

Overlooking the city of Curitiba.

The third stop at Parque Tangua was my favorite!  Here we got to climb up in the viewing towers above the waterfall and then take a nice hike down the hill, through a tunnel, and around the lake.  It was so peaceful and I really enjoyed the nice weather!

Up in the viewing tower.

The fun little tunnel.

Hanging out at the waterfall.

Our last stop was the Torre Panoramica which is a 360 foot high telephone tower that is open for sightseeing.  Up at the top there is a 360 degree view of Curitiba.  It was so cool to see all around the city! 

This was a really fun day to tour around the city and I think I got a pretty good deal because the total cost of the day was about $15.  This included the city bus fare, tour bus fare, and a snack!  I like that!

 

Training Staff...

After 8 days of building and 1 day of rest, we set in for a couple days of intensive training.  During this time the YWAM Maringa staff learned how to set up the ropes course and lead groups through the activities.  They learned quickly and I loved how they really jumped in and gave it all they had!

    

Here Marlene is showing off the knot she learned... the figure eight on a follow through.  This knot is a specific knot that is used to connect people in to the ropes.  It is a super strong knot that won't slip and is also easy to untie after it holds a lot of weight, (very important!)

In this picture I'm explaining how to set up a group to do the low circuit, which is an obstacle course that is just off the ground.  It was extra fun because I would explain the directions in English and Geninho, the guy in the green shirt, would translate into Portuguese.  

Since the Maringa staff were so athletic we had them carry a log through the course to add an extra challenge.  Along the way they named it "Wilson" and it became just another member of the team.  

The Maringa base has had the ropes course for about 2 months now and I'm excited for all that God is doing there!  I look forward to hearing wonderful stories and passing them on to you all!