Leon, Nicaragua

I am now in the Felipe Santana barrio of Leon. There are some apparent pro's and con's in comparison to Las Mesas. First, there is electricity, running water within the home, and a fenced-in shower right out back. Secondly, though, it is much hotter and the mosquitoes are abundant. Where I was nearly freezing to death in the mountains, here I can sleep without any covers. This, however, leaves me prey to the vicious blood-sucking mosquitoes. I've been told before by many ladies that I am very sweet; if I didn't believe it before, then now I'll take the word of the 'sancudos.'

OK, I just saw a spider of about 3 inches in length. Add this to the list of cons. I am now a bit apprehensive of falling asleep here. I've donated blood before, but always voluntarily and for a good cause. Here, I may not have a choice.

Also, another minor worry is an inch-long gash on my left foot that is already filled with dirt. I'll shower tomorrow morning before going to mass with the group, but as is my custom here, I don't plan on wearing socks. With luck, I hope to return to the U.S. without any infections. I am now very grateful of my work on the golf course for giving me some kind of immunity to bugs. When I visited Costa Rica in the summer of '98, I was left virtually untouched by mosquitoes and other outdoor critters. Now, after a semester of being indoors 90% of the time, I am just another gringo with sugar running through my veins.

This is my fifth night here in Nicaragua; it has been day 5 of 14. I cannot believe that it is not even half over. I feel as if I have been here for at least a week already. Although it is important to face third world realities in person periodically, I have seen little of anything that I have not already seen before.

I very much miss the United States. I must clarify that it has little to do with the standard of living or the living conditions (although I could do without the fleas and mosquitoes); I really miss my close friends and loved ones. I am here in a foreign country with eight others whom I am not very close to nor do I necessarily wish to be. I am desperately awaiting the moment I return to Gettysburg and am anticipating that first warm embrace from that special someone.

A few words on today: the despedida went well. I will always think fondly of Las Mesas and will forever appreciate the coffee-making/producing process anytime I drink a cup of coffee.

I was very much impressed at the level of organization in Las Mesas. There were obvious remnants of the Sandinista political mentality in the rural village. A political hierarchy had been arranged with a President, a vice-President, and other positions as well. There was a Men's organization, a Women's organization, and a Youth group. There was a community house and definitive plans for future projects. Past projects include installation of the latrines, building of durable roofs and walls, building of the community center, and installation of outdoor running water tapped from a mountain spring. The community of 28 families is looking towards a prosperous future due to excellent organization and capable leadership. Perhaps one day I will visit.

Now, back to the present. I look forward to this stay in Leon. With 'buena suerte,' I hope the bugs will have mercy on me. Now, with thoughts of love on my mind, I will turn my soul and body over to the world of suenos. I would say "sweet dreams" but I don't want to attract the bugs. Instead, I will just say "Buenas noches."