Note: My apologies! I thought I posted this and didn’t. Here is the blog from yesterday, June 1st 🙂

Today’s theme was History/Politics Day and we had a jam packed and fun first full day of the trip!

We started off the morning with an Academic Seminar to learn about the history of Nicaragua and current political situation, led by our GG Leader Andrew. Then, after a get-to-know-you energizer, we got to hear from a Nicaraguan tour guide, Denis, about history and politics in Nicaragua, including his ideas about why things are the way they are and where Nicaragua is headed in the future. We are so grateful for Denis’s participation in our day!

Everyone has been enjoying the new foods here, and as our first lunch in country, it was fun to have some options as lunch was served buffet-style. I had the chicken with mushrooms!

After lunch we had a seminar on safety and culture before heading out for the City Tour.IMG_0268Everyone was super excited to leave the hostal and explore the city. We got to see some important historical Leon landmarks, such as the Heroes and Martyrs Mausoleum, Poet’s Park, and the Cathedral. After going inside the cathedral and finding Ruben Dario’s grave and the three hidden eyes, we got to climb to the roof and enjoy the amazing view of the city and the volcanoes in the distance. I think it’s safe to say this was everyone’s favorite part, and we were so lucky because it stopped raining right before we went up and the skies were beautiful and clear for checking out the view. At the end of the tour, Brayan and I surprised everyone with a trip to get ice cream – much needed after two hours of walking!

The view from the east side of the cathedral. Beautiful!

The view from the east side of the cathedral. Beautiful!

After a short free time, we headed back to our comedor, Imabite, for a meal of fried chicken, rice, and salad, and then enjoyed an entertaining nightly meeting afterward at the hostal. The students had a chance to reflect on the day and their first impressions of Nicaragua, and then we had another surprise: a BIRTHDAY surprise! We got to celebrate the 17th birthday of Glimpser Tim, complete with cake, candles, juice, and dancing. Tim even got some cake in the face after, which he was a good sport about.

Happy birthday, Tim!

Happy birthday, Tim!

All in all it was a great day of bonding and learning about Nicaraguan history. As the Program Coordinator for Leon 2, I feel so privileged to work with this group of students. We have only had about a day and a half together so far, but I am so impressed by the energy and optimism these Glimpsers have already shown. Here’s to a great couple more weeks of sharing and learning!