Independence Day - Nica Style

Today NCA celebrated Nicaraguan Independence Day. They go ALL out. It's not like 4th of July, where there's just some grilling, fireworks, and hanging out by a pool. Here they celebrate big time!

All the month of August and September the students are learning about their country and their independence. They learn about the state bird, tree, and food (Guadabaranco, Sacuanjoche, gallo pinto). They learn about their independence from Spain. They learn about how the U.S. got too involved with their country and politics (woops!!). I'm always really impressed by how much they know about their country, the people, the culture, and history.

This year they focused on Central America's independence and on cacao ( cocoa bean - makes chocolate, cocoa and some delicious drinks here!)

Basically what happens today is the older students (7th - 12th grade) give a brief story/skit/demonstration about either cacoa or Central America's independence.







Yeah, that's right, Vidal has a gun! The students bring guns, machets, and horses! Can you imagine that in the states?!

"Miss, I have to have this gun for our demonstration of how we fought Spain!"
Life is different here!



Jassiel dressed up like a large woman to show that if you drink too much cacoa, you'll be fat!

OK, so it's really educational and a bit silly.


Then came the dancing!





David's in green. Can you see him?





David and Kathy. Kathy translated for the Woodcreek team that came down in June. She's way cool!

It was a really fun day! One where we get to just hang out with the kids and not just be their teacher, but a friend. AND we have a 5 day weekend! What more could you ask for!?!