Sunday, April 15, 2012

The ABC's of Honduras: J is for...

Jalón
Traveling along the bumpy roads across Honduras, you are bound to see trucks with dozens of people packed into the back.  Hitchhiking is one of the most widely used forms of transportation.  Not surprising since the majority of people do not own a car and the public buses do not travel to some of the most remote towns.  So put on your sunscreen, make sure your mouth is tightly shut, and pile on in!




Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Spring Break On Fire

La Semana Santa started out with a boom...literally.  After a gorgeous day at the beach in Tela, Honduras, the skies opened up. The winds were howling and lightening filled the sky.  All the sudden a crash so loud that the house shook and the lights went out.  A few minutes later, the sound of sirens.  Lightening had struck the giant palm tree across the street from the house where we were staying.  It continued to burn through the night and was still smoldering when we left the next morning.  Despite the storm, we had a wonderful time on the white, sandy beaches soaking up the sun and enjoying the delicious fruits of the sea.


 On day 3 we squeezed into the chicken bus and headed to Santa Rita for our next adventure.  We enjoyed days at the river, grilling with family.  We toured the Mayan ruins at Las Sepulturas.  We spent time in Copan Ruinas where we got to see the intricate sawdust alfombras (or carpets) that are created in the streets for the Easter procession.  We even got to see a movie at the little cinema in town.  It was the perfect getaway from all of the tourists that flooded into town. 


 We started back to school today.  It's time to get back to reality.  It's going to be a fast and furious couple of months.  It will be bittersweet to leave my students and "family" here in Honduras, but I'm excited about starting the next chapter of my adventure in Baton Rouge. 

Friday, March 23, 2012

Stay Tuned

Well, you may have noticed that my ABC posts have stopped.  It has been quite a week in the electricity department.  We're losing power MULTIPLE times a day (as in the power is on for a few hours a day.)  That, combined with Science Fair this week and our front door falling apart, has left me little time for writing.  I'm headed out of town for the weekend, but I promise I'll be back to blogging soon.  Stay tuned for more :)

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

The ABC's of Honduras: I is for...

Iglesia
Each town in Honduras is built around a Central Park with a historic church.  Many have been beautifully restored.  Every time I travel to a new town, I make sure to visit the church. 

Erandique
Santa Lucia
Valle de Angeles
San Sebastian
Gracias

Monday, March 19, 2012

The ABC's of Honduras: H is for...

Hammock
Nothing says true relaxation quite like a hammock.  I have fallen asleep to the gentle swaying on numerous occasions during my time in Honduras.  The local prison actually makes hammocks to sell.  This is one souvenier I'll be bringing home for sure.





Saturday, March 17, 2012

The ABC's of Honduras: G is for...

 Gracias
The place I have called home for the past three years.  Located at the base of Mt. Celaque (the tallest mountain in Honduras), Gracias is a quiet mid-sized pueblo in the department of Lempira.  Life in Gracias can be interesting.  We often don't have running water or electricity.  You'll probably look out your window to see a goat or other farm animal staring back at you.  Mastering the art of drying laundry during rainy season can be tricky.  But, I have enjoyed the breathtaking views and natural resources that Gracias has to offer.  I can take a hike in my own backyard or stroll over to take a dip in the natural hot springs during the evening.  Most of all, I have enjoyed getting to know the people of Gracias.  They have welcomed me with open arms and extended a helping hand on more than one occasion.  I will forever hold Gracias and the friendships I have made here close to my heart.





The ABC's of Honduras: F is for...

Fútbol
Is there any other sport? I've coached an elementary soccer team.  Many of my weekends are spent traveling with the Gracianos to watch games.   I was  even fortunate enough to be here when Honduras played in the World Cup in 2010.  Immediately when Honduras qualified, the whole city burst into an impromptu parade.  Beer was flying.  Horns were honking.  Fans were chanting.  It was neat to see an entire country supporting a single team.  ¡Hoy Si Papi!