arrival... ometepe

Photo is on the ferry to Isla de Ometepe :)

the first night we arrived there was a birthday party to attend (hector 27).  Hector helps us on the farm, without him our lives would be more difficult.  at the party we drank nica rum and salsa danced for what seemed to be hours.  kia played the banjo and i feel in love with her music.  the locals i've met so far have been more then generous.  they are truly delightful.  my spanish has been improving as there are many situations i've encoutered where it's my only option.  i'm glad teh locals have a sense of humor as they watch me struggle to say a simple phrase, "no hablo espagnol pero estoy apprendiendo"  my spelling is obviously not correct but they don't have to read my writing!  i was able to develop my spanish skills further with the young girls at the party.  they too are beautiful and full of life.  i have a goal to learn at least ten words a day, since i have to use it constantly i don't foresee this being a problem.

after the birthday party amanda, mitch, and i went to a party (zopilote) to continue the night.  a pirate party at a nearby hostel.  the vibes completely changed.  i was now at what seemed to be a crazy, naked, pirate, jungle party.  vats of rum and mango juice held into the night.  the rains came.  soon everyone would be covered in volcanic soil singing and dancing as the drops began to fall faster and harder with the passing moments.  the vats were now empty and turned into drums.  most of us retreated to the shelter, warming ourselves by the giant adobe oven.  as the lightening struck the mango trees presence was made with the dancers and drummers wildly moving under its branches.

fire and water, this island is a magical place.  rivers appeared in minuets where the earth was previously dry.  we managed to make the hour trek back to the farm and slip into something dry.  amanda made hibiscus tea and i fell asleep to the first torrential down pour of the wet season.

mine is the green net :)