The First Day at the School

Day 3: Today went by so fast! It was our first day at the school and it was incredible. I definitely was nervous, but once I was in the classroom all of my nerves vanished. Before the trip, I got the opportunity to study about the disability of deafness, so I was able to work with the deaf children today.

            For the first part of the school day, I work with deaf children, ages 12 and 13, who were placed in the second and fourth grades. Their class was set up extraordinarily; the teacher would write both second and fourth grade lessons on the board, both being about the same topic. For Example: There would be an advanced short story written for the fourth graders, and easier, matching assignment set up for the second graders.

For the second part of the school day, I worked with deaf boys, ages 14 and 15, who were placed in the 5^th and 6^th grades. When assisting here, I was able to learn some new signs and share a little bit about myself. In this classroom, I was granted a name in sign language. It is an M on my cheek, supposedly because I have red cheeks.  I love the deaf children I was able to work with; they communicate beautifully and their laughs fill my heart with joy! At the end of the day, we handed out the bags to each child, witnessing tons of faces light up. The first day at the school was successful, and I can’t wait for tomorrow.

The second part of the day, Maddie, Kevin, and I went to the market and a fun clothing store! When returned back to the hotel, Ms.Gutmann led us in a yoga class. Tomorrow, I am going to be joining the school’s psychical therapist in home visits. I am very thankful to be here, there is so much help needed in the school!!

Our First Weekend in Nicaragua

Day 1: Today was obviously the first day, and I obviously thought I would be extremely tired, but I wasn’t. I was so excited to be in Rivas and helping in the school. Because it’s a Saturday, the children weren’t at school. The teachers, however, were. A team of generous and amazing teachers came in, welcoming us as one of the first groups to ever volunteer at Escuela Especial. While there, we cleaned bathrooms, classrooms, the kitchen, and fields of trash. It was so fulfilling cleaning the woodshop classroom; it hasn’t been cleaned for seven years. Knowing that the children and teacher will be very thankful grateful for their clean school made it mean even more.

            While cleaning, I had time to think. I thought about why I was here, the initial goal for today and the overall goal for the whole trip. I concluded that my goal for today was to show the teachers and kids at the school that we are trustworthy people that are here to help as much as possible. I also concluded that my goal for the trip was to not only enhance my life, but more importantly, to change and help everyone I encounter. I am representing Vail, CGA, and America. I know it is a big responsibility, but it is one I am willing and honored to take.

            I am so privileged, thrilled, blessed, and happy to be here. I am filled with curiosity and excitement for the life changing week ahead.

Day 2: Today we prepared bags of rice, beans, noodles, cookies, soap, floss, toothpaste, toothbrushes, scrubs, and only for each child. We also organized our donation bags. Douglas and I got to go to a busy, fun Nicaraguan grocery store.

            It was so amazing to see all the donations. It was shocking to see how many donations can fit into ten or so bags. There were so manyclothes, school supplies, and computer parts that will surely change children at the school lifestyles.

            At the market, Douglas and I filled 180 pounds of beans, and went on a hunt for fruit. We successfully filled seven, 25 pounds each, bags. It was the busiest, most buzzing grocery I’ve ever been to, I loved it.

            I can now truly appreciate everyone’s donations, I thank you deeply. I am so appreciative and thankful for your support.

Ten Days!!!!

Only ten, short days until I am on a plane ride to Nicaragua!!! I've seen two groups of amazing people journey to Cambodia,and now it's my turn to be changed by Nicaragua. This summer has been full of fun, and the service trip I will embark on has been on my mind the whole time!!!! I am so blessed to be traveling with an extraordinary group of people, I can't wait to see how everyone is changed during this trip. If you would like to follow the rest of Team Nicaragua,here are their blog urls!

Lisa-Marie

http://childrensglobalalliance.blogspot.com

 

Makena: http://makenanicaragua.blogspot.com/

Maddie: http://maddieinnicaragua.blogspot.com/

Kevin: http://kevynichols.blogspot.com/

Douglas: http://mynicatrip.blogspot.com/

Thank you everyone who has supported me in going on this trip!! I am so thankful for all you've done for me.