So, since we did not venture afar, it was another cement day. Judging from the condition of my clothing today, I kinda got the hang of it. Yesterday, I was covered from head to toe. Today, I am about half as cruddy, and that indicates improvement in my technique.

I can tell that a couple of the Nicaraguan workers think we are more hindrance than help, but the overwhelming majority of them are patient with our klutziness and bad Spanish. Some of the group members speak very well, but most of us do not and the Nicas don't seem to care about that and give us every opportunity to practice.

After we finished work this morning, I talked to one of the workers, an older woman. We managed to communicate that I have two children and she has four, plus five grandchildren, and also a few other fun facts. I said to her, "I'm sorry that my Spanish is very bad." And she just smiled and said, in Spanish of course, "Your Spanish is better than my English!" I think we are going to go back there this afternoon for a few hours.

Bella (pronounced BAY-ah), the monkey, got into the dorm this morning and had a wonderful time jumping on the beds and playing tag with Coury, one of the five minor residents here, who was trying to catch her. She finally gave up in boredom and was carried outside. I'm sure she'll try it again! Besides Coury, I have seen brigadista Serena Fujita pat her cute little head, but it has to be her idea and most of us don't get that close.

I can't believe that the trip is half over. We can't leave yet. There is too much to do!

Part of our group finished putting up the roof on the second floor of this building. In a mere decade, this place has changed so much, and though the Nicas have gained something from our efforts, it is we who are transformed.

Hasta pronto, amigos.