We had an early start today at 5:30AM because we spent the first half of the day with friendly families in a beautiful community, Lapita, Miraflor. Each student went with a partner to talk to, work with, and have lunch with a family living there. My partner Celeste and I carried bags of dirt to the house for their floor, played futbol with some cute kids and cow patties, got some arm strength grinding coffee beans, and enjoyed some delicious food that Teresa, the grandmother, made. And even though we weren’t exactly allowed to, we both had some amazing coffee (which both of us have hated in the past, but here it was SO GOOD!), tortilllas, and cheese (called guahada) that Teresa made right in front of us! Some others swept floors, watched the soap operas, and hung out with cutesy toostie pigs.
Some of the challenges from the “Living on $1 a Day” theme were bucket showers (which were actually a little warmer than the normal shower water), no electricity or electronics, and no spending money during free-time. It was surprising how weird it was to not have our tunes and confusing music videos at meals.
Cool news: now that we’re finally getting used to the crazy and bumpy roller coaster bus rides, some of even got up to sing and dance instead of the usual sleeping and just waiting for it to be over. Every experience and opportunity has been fun and incredible so far and Esteli is such a wonderful city to be spending this time in! I’m having such a great time here and am super excited about the next week and a half, but I really miss my me time and especially my mommy time.
Amazing to hear your voice, Sweets, and see through your eyes. Wonderful!
..smiling at you.
MAKENNA! I hope you are having a great time! I was homesick for the first part of the trip, which only made it feel longer! Just enjoy the time you have left! Say hi to everyone for me!
Xo
What a rare and wonderful experience you kids are having! Savor every moment! I’m thrilled for you.
Hoi Emma.
It is amazing to see you now in Esteli.
Lieve groetjes, your Dutch friend Inge
Celeste, I like your burgundy plaid shirt you are wearing 🙂 I wore same shirt 25 years ago, when you were not even in the Celestial universe! Who knew my daughter would be wearing it in Nicaragua so many years later. I love you and I am so glad you got this opportunity-such a wonderful experience. Liked all the pictures with the locals. Make the most of your stay, I am glad you tasted the coffee; I hope you bring back Nicaraguan authentic recipes and learned how to make home made tortillas! !
Love you, and I am proud of you;
Enjoy
Mom