Nicaragua Day 5!

2/21

Today was more of a relaxing day and a bit of a later start. Most of us were able to get some much needed sleep. We went out in the morning to go shopping at the parque central and checked out the bell tower of the Cathedral of Granada. After lunch we went zip lining, during which some of us were able to go upside down. When we got back to the hostel, a few of us went on a brief trip to the supermarket where we bought far too many snacks, including slightly crumbly Oreos and the Nicaraguan equivalent of Doritos. To finish the day we went to dinner at Ajua and learned about each other over quesadillas, burritos, and tacos. (Editor’s note… “learned about each other” ? )

Taking in the view up in the bell felt like we were top of Granada. We could see for miles around us and had a birds eye view of the entire city. While zip lining we felt like we were flying like a bird through the forest. "It felt like we were riding a roller coaster while zip lining upside down”- Elena. “ Oh wow the blood is rushing to my head”- Peter. We all got a pleasant surprise at lunch today when Jack H., Jack D (J Squared)., and Gavin presented Mr. Pluta, who we have all been calling Jefe, with an El Jefe shirt. El Jefe in Spanish translates to the boss, which Mr.Pluta is at Amped for Education, but also with the new nickname he has acquired. (Editor’s note: far from the boss)

And to echo what others have said, what has been most rewarding and surprising for me was interacting with the kids. Playing soccer and working with them in the learning center, you quickly realize that they are the same as you. The kids at the learning center are interested in who has a boyfriend or girlfriend, the boys joke around in much the same way as we do, and I see some of the exact same mannerisms in the kids at the rec program as in my friends. One other thing that is very surprising is how valuable knowing English is. Speaking even passable english opens up tons of opportunities. 

“We had cake for Moira’s birthday. That should be the ending of that blog post.” - Moira