Day 8

Today was an extraordinary day! Starting out with a drive on the too-small-of-a-bus bus from Jinotepe to Masaya, we continued our journey across Nicaragua.

In Masaya, we traveled up the Masaya volcano. We got to look down into the crater as well as walk up two different trails. The first trail brought us up to a higher view of the crater that was spewing sulfuric acid. While on our dangerous trek up the trail, we encountered some workers with gas masks. The second trail was braved by those feeling well. It took us up some steep rocky trails to the top of the highest hill in the area where we could see beautiful scenery for miles in every direction. It was quite the workout in the heat of the day, but it was well worth the view.

After leaving the park, we traveled to a local eatery where we... you guessed it ... had chicken and rice. After lunch we had a bit of free time to explore local markets and buy presents for our dear loved ones at home. :) (Sorry if you don't get anything...we speak for ourselves. hah.)

Upon arriving in Granada, we spent some time walking around the park outside of our luxurious hotel. There were many vendors with all sorts of "deals" for the white folk. Soon after, we boarded the hot bus to go to Monkey Island. The boat trip began as a relaxing, scenic tour of various homes on their own islands. Some of the homes were rather large and colorful. It was an unforgettable experience which turned into horror for some. We then encountered Monkey Island where our three boats tried feeding them cashews. One monkey, which we named Mandy on one boat and Lucy on another, hopped aboard for some excitement to say the least. Many of us were thrilled and laughing, while others did not have fun. Regardless, it was a once in a lifetime experience had by all.

We then went out for our final dinner together. For the past few days we have been fantasizing about the foods we are going to eat as soon as we get back which include pizza and oreos for the majority of us. (Note to parents: please make our favorite food that does not include rice, beans, chicken, or eggs.....for the next month). Come to find out, we got 15 thick crust, delicious, large pizzas...with normal toppings!!!! WOOOHOOO! That was exactly what everyone needed. After singing Happy Birthday to Brooke (our fearless leader) in terrible Spanish, we had a few sentimental words and concluded our evening by watching Boom polish off an entire pizza. Of course we could not finish 15 pizzas, so we distributed the leftovers to the locals in need in the park.

All in all, it was a glorious day. Although we are ready to come home for some TLC, we are sad to leave this amazingly interesting country.

Adios from Nicaragua!!! It is time for bed. We have a long day of travel ahead of us!

Boom, Guns, Diva and crew (Tim, Cassie, Brenna and crew)