Day 1- Managua

I made it! I'm here! I wish I could upload pictures every day.... But that's nearly impossible soooooo my day went as followed:

1) Arrived in Managua, Nicaragua around 2 pm, got picked up by Panorama (our site staff-check out website HERE) and went on a cultural tour! Nicaragua is slowly trying to become more of a tourist area so they are slowing reconstructing some areas. It was amazing seeing how family-oriented this country is! I loved walking through the streets and shops and looking at all the beautiful views people see on a daily basis.

2) During our tour of the city we were stared at continuously by all probably because of our skin color, and flocked by children. Children pulling on our arms, begging us for "un dollar por favor" and giving us "gifts" twisted shaped grass.. expecting money. I wish I could show pics of the grasshoppers, flowers, animals, etc that these kids made because I highly doubt they will live to be shown in our suitcases on the way home. It was so terrible having to turn these kids down.

3) Our hotel is absolutely amazing. Situated in a dirt neighborhood with a newly built Alternative Break school, as well as a community church! We have a pool, bungalow, amazing staff, and 3 different cabins.

4) I tried plantains and fried cheese! Our dinner on the first night consisted of beans, rice, beef, plantines, fried cheese, and coke

5) We got to see our site!!! Eek. We are building a house for a family of 12. This family makes less than $2/day and under $30/month. The mom works for domestic (maid) and the father is an alcoholic, who is almost never seen. The home is a 2-minute walk from our resort and seeing the sewer filled streets, skinny dogs and cats, adorable poor children is HEARTBREAKING. Even more heartbreaking was the current living conditions of the family of 12 right now- living under tarps and scrap metal. As soon as these children and adults saw us walking toward their "home" they started yelling "THEY'RE HERE, THEY'RE HERE,"... Simply waving, staring, hugging, and smiling at us. I look forward to meeting and getting to know the family we are building for... We are thinking of planning a clothing drive to send back to them upon our return to the USA. Can't wait for a fun-filled day of ziplining and hiking tomorrow!!!