Day 3 in Nicaragua

2/19

Day three in Nicaragua! Cameo gave a beautiful, heart warming speech all about Pluta’s luscious locks, the flow is just too irresistible that Cameo just had to express herself. We went to the market first thing this morning for some shopping, while some of the guys went for a straight shave. At the market we were able to practice our spanish speaking skills and learn to negotiate with the vendors. Many of us are surprised with the welcoming nature of the locals, and how they worked with us to understand each other. The girls felt excluded from the straight shave, as they would not allow us to get our legs shaved. “I felt like I was pampered like at a spa”-Gavin W. We were able to accomplish building two more tables for the new learning center. When we were working knowing how much the kids need them and will appreciate them really kept us motivated throughout the day. We have all appreciated Brooke’s love of orange juice as she has been carrying around a jug of it in the hostel. We had another fabulous meal at Ramona’s. we were able to enjoy a traditional meal Arroz de la Valencia. The meal is typically served at celebrations. Getting to see how other people live and their different culture really makes many of us appreciate what we all have and sometimes take for granted. Many of the kids we see look like the happiest kids in the world. It’s the simplest things like playing pass or soccer with them completely makes their day and puts a smile on their face. Also, the kids enjoy helping us with our spanish and learning some new english words. For many of us it’s amazing to be able to use the skills we learned in spanish and use them in real situations. For those who didn’t speak or know any spanish coming here, they have learned many new words and phrases along the way. It’s amazing to realize how putting in a little effort can result in communication between two different cultures. While we have fun relaxing at the hostel, the most fun we have had is out in the community volunteering.

- Lindsay and Brooke