Nica, Nica, Nica

Jardin Botanico is beautiful. My family has been so wonderful, welcoming, and understanding of my strange and new situation. To say the least I feel extremely grateful!

I wish we could stay in this community the whole time because what a community! There are SOOO many trees creating plenty of shade (and mosquitos) to keep the tropical air very cool during the day. This week Jesse, Jessa, Kurt, and I have had intensive language classes, and assistance in getting us started in the community. For example, our Language Facilitator walks with us to other houses to help us feel more comfortable while we introduce ourselves initially. This week we will be helping to form a group of young people in the community who are interested in building a compost, vivero(tree nursery), and un huerto (garden for food and necessities). Also, for possible commercialization projects. Some of the ideas we´ve had are oil extraction from the many Acetuna trees that the people do not use normally.
Because the language classes have been so intense it´s been difficult to switch back and forth from Spanish to English and then back again. And when I wake up in the morning, after dreaming and thinking in English all night and feeling quite groggy, then it´s awkward and kind of silly when I switch back to Spanish again. My Spanish is improving little by little (poco a poco)... I just need to speak more with my family. At first I thought my family was shy or maybe didn´t know what to do with me, but now they have really opened up and are speaking to me more and more each day.
All in all, I have a great feeling about all that has happened... and it´s only been one week.. holy crap!
The other 45 trainees are ABSOLUTELY amazing. I´ve never connected so easily and so closely with a group of perfect strangers so quickly. But we are a family now and it´s wonderful. :)
I miss mis queridos mucho. Hopefully I can figure out a way to use my laptop and skype you soon.
Amor de Nica,
Lindsey

Address...

My address for the next 3 months!

Lindsey Croasdale, PCT

Voluntario del Cuerpo de Paz

Apartado Postal 3256

Managua, Nicaragua

Central America