We quickly learned through our experiences thus far that flexibility is a virtue in Nicaragua. We can turn on a dime. When we found out we couldn´t unload the container, we had a great tour of Managua that brought us up to speed on the history and political dynamics. We saw lots of contradictions. Great poverty was seen right next to palatial presidental buildings. We saw an amazing place called the Peace Park which was created after the revolution to symbolize the end of violence in Nicaragua. The key feature was guns buried in cement that were brought by citizens to symbolize the beginning of peace. Oddly enough, recessionary times have caused theft of the guns, plaques, and metal in order to be melted down and sold. We also quickly learned that ice cream is the new 6th food group, especially in today´s heat (we believe it to be 32C). Eskimo bars cost 25 cents from a street vendor.
We had the chance to do another zip-line, much higher and longer than any we have braved before, but Ruth said NO! Now we are off for lunch and our trip to Chinandega. Travelling involves choices: cushy seats and air conditioning vs. sauna and bumpity bumpity bump. You can guess who ordered coffee and who ordered ice cream when we stopped at our On The Run.
We should now introduce you to the Bag Meister, aka, Ruth Cunningham. With a photographic memory, military precision, and faultless documentation we can find everything but the scissors. With all the generous donations, being able to find what we need for each location quickly, from 48 hockey bags, is no small task. Kidding aside, we are grateful for all the skills and blessings of our team. We´re seeing them multiply on a daily basis as we get to know each other better and accomplish our daily tasks and obstacles that present themselves.
Annette arrived to join the group last evening as well as Mauricio, Francis, Samuel, and our fearless drivers. We have learned here that horns in vehicles can be used to much greater advantage than we are aware of in Owen Sound. Also, sitting in the back seat DOES have its advantages - you can´t see where you are going.
Our group arrived at the Hotel Pacifica and our group is now organized into two geographic locations for accomodation. At the urban location we were surprised to have air conditioning, showers, and a tiki-style dining room whilst our compadres in the rural outback chilling with the howler monkeys. Maybe we´re kidding...
We are looking forward to tomorrow, our first day on our job site. Andre is our Bob the Builder who will coordinate with Mauricio, the foreman, to keep us productive and building walls that stand. Steel toes, iron will, we´re ready to build! Bring on the heat!
Paz Out!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment