Hola

Today was our second free day. Our delegation split into groups of 4 and spent quality time exploring the city, visiting the markets, and preparing for our Community Action Project (CAP).

Anai, Bryant, Michaela, and myself spent our morning at Juan’s place to learn and work on the structural components of our project. Our group learned from and helped Juan measure and cut the poles, sand them, and weld the pieces. We had a great experience getting our hands dirty and hanging out with Juan.

Kevin, Alvaro, Darwin, and Moises went to Sucre Parque to begin exploring the city. Unfortunately, their main goal of visiting Nintendolandia had to be postponed due to the store being closed. Nevertheless, the group enjoyed walking around Riobamba and interacting with each other.

Cynthia, Alexia, Veronica, and Nour also went to Sucre Parque to begin exploring the city. The group encountered a dark, uncomfortable bathroom that added to the experience. They spent time buying souvenirs at street stores and visiting the mercado.

Alejandro, Ana, Joey, Celest, Jannett, Patty, and Emily were dropped off at the Multiplaza and were responsible for buying a couple supplies. The group found a bargain for the paint but could not buy any screws. Afterwords, they spent more time at the stores and walked together to Rayuela.

After our lunch at Rayuela, most of us visited the historic train station and went to the indigenous market. We had a great time bargaining with the locals. Afterwords, the group walked through the city and found its way back to our hostel to play soccer, volleyball, and table tennis before dinner.

Today, being el lider del dia was a good chance to test my organization and challenge my limits. Checking people in/out and being responsible for them seemed like a daunting task but the discipline of our members made it an easy job. I was challenged when I had to lead the group back to the hostel without knowing where we really were. Everyone enjoyed the day and came back safe.

The most inspiring person I was with today was none other than Juan. Even on his day off, he decided to give the groups rides to their respective destinations. During his time with our group, we witnessed his dedication and expertise. In his self-built home, we were able to work on the CAP project and meet his family. Juan is a savage driver.

Patty, “shoutout to the Rosendo and Medina family.”

Emily, “shoutout to the Aguilar-Gonzalez family! I miss you and love you all.”

Michaela “shoutout to the Mead-Aronson clan 🙂 I cannot wait to see you guys in a week.”

Bryant “shoutout to my boy Mahdari in Jinotega, Nicaragua!”

Jannett “shoutout to the Contreras family. I miss you 🙂 :(”

Juan welding the swing set

The group with the A frame

Jaun doing more welding

The Indigenous Market

Ping Pong

The Nightly Meeting