Just another great day in Nicaragua and much to recount. After waking up too early for my liking, we met with the vice mayor of la Ciudad Sandino of which Nueva Vida is part. He told us his many plans for the city and the general daily happenings of the city. It was rather interesting to hear a first-hand perspective of a high-ranking government official who deals primarily with the social aspects of Nica life. Now that the Sandinistas are in power, the schools have become truly free which was an original promise of the Nica constitution. Though not a lot, this is definitely a step in the right direction.
Afterwards, another shift of work ensued with the painting of the new health clinic. In the afternoon, I switched to the phamacy where I had the opportunity of giving medicine to the people of the clinic. I told them what the medicine was, how to take it, etc., which was exciting to see the behind-the-scenes clinic work. The best part of the day, however, came when the workday neared completion.
A small crowd of little Nicas had formed outside the clinic and the brigadistas had been playing and taking pics with them. I felt like everyone was in elementary school again just enjoying themselves with the local kids.
Tonight, we experienced some of Managua's finest dining in a back-road restaurant. The meal cost $10 a head and it included EVERYTHING. We had two drinks, chicken, steakcabobs, rice, beans, the works. Nica food is now among my favorites. Other than having to push the bus out of the parking lot after dinner, the night is coming to another comfortably cool end as we gather for some night-time relaxation.
Adios from a faraway land.
