Lauren Varboncoeur Archives

After what seemed like a very long trip (all after very few hours of sleep and lots of writing papers at Bucknell during the week), we arrived in Managua around lunch time today.

We became familiar with the awesome school bus, picked our bunks, and listened to some people from JHC tell us a little about the JHC community and Nicaragua itself. Luckily, it cooled down a little around 5 p.m. and there has been a nice breeze ever since. The thermometer in the dorm read 88 degrees all afternoon! Now, it's a crisp 83. After taking a brief dip in the pool, I was greeted by Bella, the monkey. I can't say I've ever had a monkey wrap its tail around my ankle before!

After a yummy lunch of rice and beans, salad, fried cheese, and fried plantains, we headed off for the second half of our day of sightseeing to Managua. My favorite activity of the afternoon was the church service we attended. It is a Catholic church that makes it its mission to accept all people from all denominations. Before the service, we had a chance to look at some of the beautiful murals on the walls. They really integrated the people's religion into their daily lives in Nicaragua. I couldn't help but be amazed with all of the bright colors included in these paintings.

Today was our first work day and everyone was at the clinic. Some people worked in the clinic and pharmacy and lots of us worked on finishing up the new dental clinic for the dedication later this week. Five of us worked on painting the bars outside the windows to cover up the rust. It was amazing how quickly time flew before it was time for lunch.

I spent this afternoon translating for Dr. Stechschulte in the clinic. It was my first experience in the clinic and it was such a great experience.

Today was definitely the hottest day we've had here so far. Ironically, it was also our busiest day. As for tonight, we are about to head out on the bus to a Nicaraguan discoteca!

After a long trip home Sunday, we arrived in Lewisburg at about 3:15 Monday morning. The rumors were true. We were welcomed by about a foot of snow on the ground! I think all of us made a gasping noise as we stepped off the bus without winter coats. At least two of us literally ran home pulling our suitcases because we were so cold while some of our fellow Brigadistas had to shovel out their cars before heading home.