HOY Hear Out Yellow

Today was Nicaragua's Father's Day. We went back to the banana encampment where there was a special meal for everyone. There was lots of music and we danced with everyone who was willing to dance with us (We're not so good at the Nicaraguan dancing ways). The leaders of the encampment had us help them with portioning the food and handing it out. It was really rewarding to feel like we were really doing something to help. We danced with the people and played soccer with the children for hours. I'm comfortable speaking for the rest of the group that is has been the best day here so far. It was so unbelievable and overwhelming to have that many people smiling all at the same time. The children played so well together. Everyone made sure than everyone else was able to participate. It was so beautiful. They took turns taking pictures with our cameras. Bianca bought candy for them. The whole experience was so joyful.

Yes it´s Day Numero Tres and we finally met up with the banana workers today! We took a cab to the encampment where 1,200 of these banana workers live. All of whom are suffering from the effects of Nemagon. We interviewed the four main leaders of the association and it was just an overwhelming experience. We received more than enough information we can digest in a day and also talking to the other banana workers there was a real insight to their sufferings. We spent all day there filming.

Everyday we have spent here thus far, even though it has only been 3 days, has been wonderful. It is very different from the first time we were here because now we are getting more in touch with the lives of the Nicaraguans. We are learning how to negotiate our dollar to cordobas exchange rates with the money changers, how to squeeze 6 people in a cab without squashing anyone, learning how to cross the streets properly (somewhat) and enjoying the wonderful gallo pinto and refrescos. The best of all, we are all learning so much about each other, everyday is full of surprises!

Today Muyambi's friend Bianca and the five of us went to the Centro de comercial (the mall) and the University of Central America and spent the day there. We took taxis there and back. We were very  happy to spend the day on the campus with the students. It was an absolutely beautiful campus. We interviewed a few students about Nemagon and the banana workers. We even ate in the school cafeteria. Afterwards, just the five of us left Bianca and went back to the house and ate an amazing dinner.
A list to make you all jealous:
Chicken
Rice and carmelized onions
Beans
Tomato and onion salad

We have arrived safely in Nicaragua! After a long day of traveling, we are settling into our 'house' and enjoying our first official night together. In fact, as I write, Muyambi is serenading me with his guitar playing.

Although our day was long and quite tiresome, we are very ecstatic to begin our adventure! The day was full of unexpected surprises (issues with Muyambi's visa at JFK, the crew decided to show up late to our connecting flight in Miami, hanging out on the runway in Miami to let the storm pass, etc.), but we were able to keep a positive attitude and take something out of everything. I can tell already that this is going to be a great group and we are learning so much about each other. Bianka (Muyambi's Nicaraguan friend) is a tremendous help and we are so grateful she is joining us.

Time to get ready for a good night's sleep. For those worried parents, keep in mind there's a 2 hour time difference, so it's only 11pm and not 1am! We're especially content after a delicious dinner at a nice restaurant nearby, the perfect first dinner that consisted of other food besides rice and beans!