Travel Tales #9 – Lago de Yojoa Round 2

~My 19th Birthday~

• Lajo de Yojoa, Honduras

• Hours travelled: 2 hours (más o menos)

• Distance travelled: 66.7km

• Transport: bus + truck (+ mototaxi!)

• Rating: 10💫

With incredible luck (that seemed to last the whole weekend) we had a 4 day break from school that coincided with my birthday weekend. As I write this its midday on Sunday, the sun is shining brightly + we sit in a truck with the Americans as I jam to Enrique. The mountains are rolling by and I can’t believe we’re racing through the beautiful country of Honduras. How’d we get here? Early Thursday morning we cooked some plantain, grabbed our backpacks + headed down the road to the bus stop. As per usual I forgot my daily inhaler so ended up doing a wonderful morning run to grab that then we semi made friends with a school girl we asked to take a picture of us. As the bus was bursting with bodies we hopped in the front seats with her + had a nice partner bonding moment with Giselle on my lap.

Once at the terminal we quickly transferred to a San Pedro bus + spent the journey chatting, listening to music + I read lots. As a note I would definitely reccomend the book Q&A (what Slumdog Millionaire is based off) – suuuupeer good!

One bus change later + we were in Pena Blanca enjoying smoothies. I had strawberry-kiwi whereas Giselle went for her go to: strawberry-banana + granola – but let’s face it, when it comes to líquidos they’re all ace!

Cue hopping in a mototaxi to get us to D&D then lots of time spent with Megan + Rachel chatting + discussing the news of the last months – of which there seemed to be loads!! After Giselle + I ate our pre-made lunch we headed to our usual kayak people + treated them to a wonderful kayak on the lake. I love being there because it’s so tranquil with truly incredible views + this time it was boiling! If you ever want to appreciate the natural beauty of the world, head to Lago de Yojoa. We all jumped in the lake to cool off a little then Giselle + I de- lifejacketed (sorry mum, sorry dad) to practice diving. Promise these were put back on later when we got chilly. We ended up sitting + talking more which drifted us quite a distance so the kayak back was long but really good – especially since Giselle + I were having a mixture of spanish classes + singing sessions.

We grabbed some baleadas (por supuesto), took showers then headed back out to the same comedor for dinner. I had delicious tortillas con quesillo (yuuuum) then we headed back for a chilled night. I was unfortunately suffering further stomach pains leading to Giselle + I watching a movie together outside until the early hours of the morning till it subsided. What an incredible partner I have💙

Friday we had plans to go hiking so once up headed to a really cute cafe where paninis were enjoyed in the morning sunshine💫

We were all pretty tired but headed out anyways to an archeological site – an interesting trip… After being “assured” by the security guards that we could convince the ticket office we had residency without our cards (to get the cheaper Honduran price!) we headed across the rickety bridge.

It started so well, we found a tall wooden structure to chill upon + listened to music whilst I munched some biscuits. Then more trekking through the jungle commenced as we attempted to find the ticket station; though the sign for this pointed to a water-logged, impassible path.

At this point the mosquitos were coming out in their armies with one target in mind: gringas. We were running down the paths, attempting to find the exit whilst constantly snapping our bodies. A semi argument commenced with the man as we didn’t want to pay when we never even got tickets + the only ruins we saw were some stone steps in a hill. Eventually we were given the catracha price so paid 40L + feeling rather dejected, headed home. Before this we did manage to chill at the waterside for a while, munching mangos.

After some relaxation we attempted another hike which we’d been told was 50L but ended up being 100L so decided just to walk around the small village instead. I videocalled El whilst we relaxed around the fire pit then we decided to get some snacks for our movie that night. Turns out we got to dinner at a bad time as there were no tables yet + although we were super hungry had to wait further at the fire pit. Eventually we all ordered burritos then once a table was free waited there for these to arrive. When they finally did (a blessing because we were starving) they were absolutely huge + super delicious. That night the only other thing I could manage was some good old OJ. I popped out at 11:50 to Skype a friend for the start of my birthday then went back to the room, not feeling like it was really a birthday.

My 19th was genuinely one of my best days in Honduras thus far. We woke up, put some tunes + I slipped into my blue (of course) playsuit. Giselle gifted me an absolutely beautiful blue notebook from Guatemala (thanks buddy💙) + D&D had a super cool sign that made me realise how far from home I was:

After a brief videocall to my best bud + a hug from Walter we headed back to the same cafe. Thanks to Giselle the woman gave me a birthday hug then we headed out to the adorable garden to order. Picture lots of cute coloured umbrellas, chairs, plants + acouatic music drifting out of the wooden cafe. Perfect vibes. Some more video calls later + I was munching on a Italian panini + enjoying a truly AMAZING moccachino! Yuuuum! At one point we heard happy birthday instrumental + I turned towards the path where the owner gave me a cake + candle! What an ace surprise!! Truly an incredible birthday feast💙

After this it was time to catch a little bus to almost the middle of nowhere, where Giselle + I got to bond by me sitting on her lap.

We were dropped at the side of the road so started the walk into the village + towards the national park. It was 80L entrance which allowed us to take a bazillion cute pictures with the waterfall, as well as swim in the stream, should we wish. Once we saw the size of the waterfall (tallest in Central America) we started to question our decisions but paid for the tour nonetheless.

After a quick change + setting up my GoPro we met Raifel, our super chilled guide, + dressed in the appropriate clothing: jackets + helmets. We had even more luck as we were the only 4 on the tour which made it so much better☺️

Then we were off! Making our way down the steep track that led to the waterfall, barely being able to see through the most that was hitting our faces. Through 2 rusted metal doors and, after a quick tightening of our life jackets, on to the rocks. We came to a small pool + made the 1st jump, probably only a metre, into the fresh water below. It was amazing! We swam over to Rafiel + made our way further towards the depths of the waterfall, all holding hands to stabilise us. We passed under many sections of the waterfall, pausing in a sort of cave, then were told to keep our faces down + breath through our mouths as the water falling on our heads would be very strong. Well, that was an understatement. The only part that scared me was this, when I didn’t feel like I could breathe + couldn’t see where I was going. We were to hold onto the rope with both hands but I could no longer see Rafiel in front of me so felt around. All that was there was rock + I almost wandered out into the waterfall itself but heard a familiar voice telling me to crawl up so I half climbed, half scrambled up the rock to the hand being held out to me. What proceeded next almost looks like a scene from a snowstorm in Antartica because all I could see was the girls pulling themselves up the rope as the water cascaded down onto them.

We were treated to incredible views of the water quite literally flying over our heads + honestly to be under a waterfall was a pretty cool feeling.

After more exploration in the main pool under the falls we headed back to the 1st, safer pool where a slightly higher jump was taken. Rafiel then pointed up, towards where the water was running over the edge (a sort of side waterfall) + said that was the highest jump. It didn’t look too high, so without too much thought we followed. As soon as we got up I freaked out more, as it started to look like even more than the 25 feet it was. Well, this is what Gap Years are made for. We watched Rafiel de-cap + throw himself in + after a moment I’d freak out I followed – of course, the birthday girl first. It’s pretty hard to describe except I almost got that falling feeling in the pit of my stomach but as soon as it came my feet were touching the water + I was down! I then chilled on a rock with Rafiel encouraging + filming the others decents. Megan, Giselle + I all made the jump + all freaked out afterwards – it was SUCH a high!

Many pictures were taken afterwards before taking off our things, giving Rafiel a hug + heading into the stream, which actually had an incredibly strong current. It was definitely good to relax + try to process what the heck just happened!

We chilled on the side attempting to dry for what felt like ages, before making the trip back to the road. There was no bus so when we heard a truck coming along + without much hope stuck out a thumb. With more incredible luck it was a lovely family who were passing D&D + so gave us a lift! It was pure perfection, chilling in the back of the truck in my fave country trying to comprehend this is how I was entering my 19th year.

Once back at D&D there were more calls to family/friends + I should take the time now to say a huge huge thank you to all these incredible humans + I’m so lucky to have you in my life💙 As the sun started it’s decent we began to get ready for the night with much needed showers after lots of lake water + putting on some “fancier” clothes.

Once we sat down + ordered I saw Walter (D&D guy) coming towards me with a bowl that had a candle in. I was gifted some delicious free chocolate cake (thanks bud!) before our incredible meal. Onion rings to share (which were like little soft, donutty balls of goodness) before a plate of fresh fish, chips + veggies. Perfect 19th. Then we headed on a walk for sweet treats (word of advice: never wear a dress outside your hotel) + I had one more Skype call before we settled down to watch a, how to say.. less than average romance… but at least we had fun laughing at it!

Sunday morning we were up + sorting out the mess that was our room before paying + bidding farewell to the staff. We put up a group lemp on the wall + I did one for my birthday to remember how incredible the weekend had been😄

Next it was time for some final licuados + I invested in a simply huge 3L banana for the journey ahead. The bus was enjoyable thanks to the music being played although I rather stupidly forgot to get my change at the end so paid 100L. Luckily, whilst Giselle + I were waiting at the side of the road in La Guama Giselle turned to me + said a boy looked like Drew. Surprisingly, it actually was Drew! Somehow we managed to bump into the Americans so managed to get a free lift back to La Eperanza! The luck continued!

We had a hilarious time trying to fit all the veggies we bought into our backpacks then had an incredible lunch of tajadas + meat. Yum yum yuuuuum😋 (+ only for 30L, I love you Honduras)

On the walk back to the bus we bumped into the Americans yet again so got another free lift back! As if the weekend couldn’t be more perfect our neighbours gifted us free soup for Monday lunch then invited us in for a delicious dinner with no power.

Thank you to Honduras + everyone who was with me for my favourite birthday ever🎉 Bring on 19!!

From a little blue house in Yamaranguila,

Charlotte

Running In Rectangles

How does one try + stay fit whilst being an international volunteer? That’s a good question, Charlotte.

I’ve always loved exercise, playing sports + eating healthy, which is probably thanks to the influence of my mumma. After being on 2 college teams last year + being accustomed to exercising quite a bit, to come Honduras + not do anything was, at first, a shock to my system. In the beginning I was so focused on all of the new things here I didn’t really think about this but as time went on I really missed my workout sessions with my mum, my old diet, sports + taking care of myself mentally. Health is about your entire lifestyle, not just what you eat or how many burpees you can do in one minute. At the start of 2018 I decided for my last 5 months in Yamaranguila I would make health more of a priority. Now I’m completely settled into my life here + use to the demands of teaching + living alone I can afford to spend extra time on myself. So, for my own entertainment (+ possibly future motivation?) here’s my “Healthy Routine”.

5-5:30am: at some point during this time my body likes to wake up. The 1st thing I do once I’m out of my slumber is meditate (something I got back into in Honduras) + chug a bottle of water I leave by my bed. If there’s time I read or surf Pinterest for some inspiration for my day but avoid social media. This time is Charlotte time. Both of us have taken to drinking a glass of lemon water in the morning which, although tastes disgusting, is super beneficial for you. Along with this we probably consume more water than should be possible, around 3 litres for me + probably more for Giselle! Breakfast is often fruit along with, most commonly for me, an egg + quesillo sandwich or a sort of veggie, egg dish. Once I’ve done my Duolingo for the day I tend to speak to people in the uk as the time difference means this really is the best time for contact.

School: We have cut back on the portions we take for lunch, especially the carbs, and my snacks only consist of fruit + water as well as my mid-morning baleada. Obviously when I’m at school my thoughts are about teaching but if I’m not marking a nivelación test in my free I’m trying to be as productive as possible – whether that’s blogging, studying some Spanish or whatever else I need to do.

3:30pm: My go to snack is either fruit or often I cook up some veggies. Whilst these are cooking I take a break to sit on my bed + journal or complete whatever chores I deem essential.

^ a truly huge bowl of fruit I packed away one day😋

Workout Time: Now, sometimes we are super busy with teaching + sorting things out so these are either not as often as I’d like or, very occasionally, it isn’t possible at all. However, it’s normally around 5 times a week that I get moving outside. It’s not a punishment, or about trying to get thin. It’s about letting my functioning body have the time it deserved put into it which I genuinely enjoy – probably evident from all my blogs regarding running.

Warmup: I start with anything from a 15-30 minute run which tends to be in the courtyard. I sweat my way around the rectangle, sometimes being accompanied by the kids but most often being left to my own thoughts + music.

^the rectangle I run around

Cardio: After the warm up it’s into HIT – basically lots of intense cardio for 2-3 songs. Think: jumping jacks, burpees, heel kicks, jump ropes, high knees, etc. This stuff is definitely a lot easier when you’re following a video but hey, we’re living the simple life. I actually just recently tried Insanity which I haven’t done since the UK (it’s a cardio video) which I loved! So I expect I’ll be doing that around 3 times a week now👊

^pre workout happiness!

Floor Exercises: When cardio is finally done + I’ve been reduced to a pile of sweat + pain on the floor I start on the other parts of my body, alternating between abs, arms, core, etc. The exercises I do really depend on how hard I found the rest of the workout + the amount of strength I still have left but it lasts for around 10 minutes. For this think planks, crunches, leg lifts, bicycle, pushups or algo más.

Stretching: Here’s the part we all love: when you reach the end of a workout. Again this is for around 10 minutes, though I’m quite possibly one of the most inflexible people you’ll ever see. From my sports I have my own little routine I like to do + I tend to just stick to this.

^that post workout face though…

Post Workout: this is honestly the stage where my inner beauty appears as I remain as red as a tomato for up to 2 hours as my body cools down, though the bonus is I lose all appetite during this time. I chug a bottle of water to replenish those important H20 stores and if/when I do feel hunger there’s always fruit that can be eaten. I take my important shower then settle down for the rest of the night, whether that’s hanging with the neighbours, teaching or whatever else we’re doing! I’m struggling but trying to get into yoga (with little success, haha) so often read (52% through War + Peace – whoop!) or occasionally watch a movie with Giselle. Then it’s time to wash my face, have some water + get comfortable in bed around 9-9:30.

^we recently experimented with Buddha Bowls for dinner which was super fun! Thanks Pinterest!

Just So You Know: Here’s where I’m gonna say yes I still eat unhealthy things occasionally, I still don’t stretch as much as I should + I still miss workouts. I’m not perfect.

^enjoying some early birthday cake🎉

With this being said fitness is super important to me so I try my best with it. Yes it’s a lot harder in a country like Honduras where there isn’t access to all the amazing health products in the uk + although yummy, Honduran food isn’t always healthy. However, it’s totally possible. I spend serious time on Pinterest looking up new workouts, new receipes, new tips + this is always super fun.

For me, health is more than what you look like/how much exercise you do. It’s about getting enough sleep (I aim for 8 hours), having a positive attitude + being happy. Working out is just a small part of my day where I let my body do what it was made to do – move! I’m lucky I love my job + my life in general + have access to fruits, veggies, etc to eat well too.

Well, that’s how this one tries to stay fit whilst being an international volunteer. I still have a way to go with this but for the moment I’m happy with how things are going! Plus, when we go on walks we get treated to views like this one pictured below so I’m a very blessed girl:

From a little blue house in Yamaranguila,

Charlotte

19 Lessons Learnt

I really cannot believe I’m going to turn 19 this week. This’ll be my 1st birthday away from home + although this one of those rare times where I’ll miss being at home I’m so so thankfully I get to be spending it in Honduras. I LOVE being a volunteer and though it’s super typical + cheesy I really do feel this year has changed me for the better. I know, I know. I sound like every other person who takes a gap year. But honestly, it’s true. So what have I learnt before I enter my last year of teenhood? Well, here’s 19 things Honduras has taught me thus far:

1. It’s all about attitude – you can remain positive if you make up your mind firmly that you will! There’s been some problems for us here (illness, no money + mould to name a few) but after every crazy thing that’s happened it’s always gotten better at the end! In the uk the smallest thing would stress me out but here things don’t worry me like they use to. From a former over-thinker + anxious person, thanks Honduras.

2. Money is not important – Giselle + I still pretty much only have access to our pay check, unless we travel to a bigger city. For us, we’ve learnt to budget, learnt to thrift + I’ve learnt to realise having money, or a particular car or house or whatever material item it is, will not lead to my happiness. When I’m found hanging out our friends, laughing about something ridiculous + enjoying the Honduran sun – that’s when I’m happiest.

3. I can deal with being ill alone – I guess my immune system was better in the uk as I was never I’ll but the different way of life here must have really hit my body as I’ve been ill a lot more than usual. I’ve dealt with things I’ve never had before + this makes me realise I can do this alone. Before Honduras one of my biggest fears was being ill alone + having to deal with it but honestly once you’re in that situation it’s not so bad! It’s always waaaay less serious than I first think (but always best to get checked out regardless!).

4. Embrace the morning – as a kid I was a HUGE morning person, always waking up before everyone else in the house. However, when I reached sixth form late nights of studying/being a teenager combined with early starts for sixth form made me not like mornings. Thankfully, Honduras changed that. Now I’m up at 5:45 by the latest + find I have all this amazing extra time to be able to do things that are important for me.

5. What others think about you doesn’t matter – as a semi-typical teenager I really struggled with this in the uk. For example, there were items of clothing I wanted to buy but didn’t in case I “couldn’t rock it” or people thought I looked weird. I’m the complete opposite out here. I have dungarees, try funky new hairstyles + have learnt to embrace the things I love: reading, writing, exercising, etc. + though this sounds like little things it makes you realise hey, as long as you’re happy no one else’s opinion matters.

6. How to de-mould your apartment – Useful? Definitely! A hard lesson to learn? Even more so. Thanks to living with the stuff for like 2 months I’d consider ourselves experts in this department. Bleach, protective gloves and fans have slowly become our best friends!

7. It takes all kinds of people to make a world – whether people have different opinions/beliefs to you doesn’t matter. In this life, it’s not about whose right and whose wrong – different things suit different people. As long as your trying your best to be as kind as possible, you’re doing good.

8. I can live without chocolate (!) – something I thought I’d never believe. After a month of struggles with cravings I can proudly say I now sit here with a pile of my Christmas chocolate in the room – the majority of which hasn’t been touched. I just don’t need it anymore – although still like it as the occasional treat.

9. Appreciate every moment in life – time flies when you’re having fun + I’m so glad that every morning I wake up + think how thankful I am that I’m here, in my favourite place.

10. How to hand wash clothes – the first time you use a pila it’s a bit crazy but now I grab our bar of soap + head out without any worries. You learn which are the harder items (denim + towels for sure) + therefore what to be more careful with. I honestly think I won’t need a washing machine when I get back because this method is so easy to us now!

11. The world has endless surprises for you – turns out we’re fully capeable of planning + executing a trip all by ourselves which, I know, may worry my family but is honestly super super fun. There’s something amazing about turning up at a hostel, dumping your heavy backpack + exploring a new place. It’s the opposite of my past travels where I had the comfort of my parents + we stayed in cosy hotels. If you build up the confidence to go out + see something new the world will most definitely reward you. Whether it’s a sunrise in Belize, banana boating, kayaking, hiking or finding a hidden licuado shop – there’s so so much to be appreciated in this world.

12. Political problems are everywhere + ongoing – lots of what angers me in Honduras also happens in the uk. There’s too many problems to name in the world: scapegoating groups, shootings, corruption, terrorism + more but if you only focus on these you’re bound to be sad. Instead, what I’ve learnt is there’s not much use getting super angry+ shouting your opinion. Let’s all try to understand each other a little better + maybe only when we view each + every person as what they are, a person, will things improve.

13. Appreciation of my mumma – even when I live in another freakin’ continent she remains my 1st call in times of trouble. I love being able to chat with her, especially when it’s about something medical because she never stresses. She was my best bud in the uk + it’s clear not a lot changes – te amo mami💙

14. A phone is useful, not essential – although I still rely on my phone for many things it’s not longer essential to me. Social media is something I truly think I could live without (though music, not so much) + it doesn’t even bother me too much when there’s no internet. There’s too many things to see + do for me to want to sit inside on my phone. It’s useful for pictures, blogging, music + contact but not essential for my life.

15. How to teach (I hope!) – this was a seeeeeiously steep learning curve for me + the 1st time you stand in front of a class is super scary but honestly I absolutely love what I do. In this project we gave the added bonus of doing a mixture of assisting + teaching and I honestly love both parts – I’m super attached to my 2nd graders but have LOADS of fun teaching nivelación too!

16. With enough work, you can do anything – I use to think learning Spanish was impossible. I just would never be able to do it. Yet now I can speak more than I ever imagined I would + I know with more work I’m only going to keep improving. If you truly want something, the only way to get it is consistent work. Spanish – I’m coming for you!

17. Patience – the thing I’m most grateful my kids have given me. Patience. You can never have too much. After the struggle of the 1st month whilst I was learning this lesson now I don’t get so stressed out anymore. I have the ability to step back, take a breath, then help. Thanks 2nd Grade!

18. How to clean a house – going from being with your parents to having your own space is super exciting but also a little bit of a shock. I can honestly say I’ve learnt how to clean a toilet, how to enjoy washing up (music, music, music) + now sweep our apartment at least twice a day. It’s not the most fun ever but I’m definitely ready for uni!

Finally, what I consider the most valuable lesson Honduras has taught me…

19. You don’t need a life plan – I know what it’s like: to be told to pick a University, pick a course + heck, even pick your future career. It’s scary! What Honduras has showed me is that you don’t need some big, complex, well-thought out lifeplan. I’m not ashamed to say I was questioning whether this year was the right choice every step of the way but look at me now – taking the leap + literally stepping into that plane was the best decision I EVER made. Now all I know is in September I’ll start a law course at Nottingham – what happens next is anyone’s guess…

So that’s what I’ve learnt from a little over 6 months in this incredible country. But I know Honduras has more to teach me + I’m ready to learn so, although I feel kinda old, let’s rock being 19!!

From a happy little house in Yamaranguila,

Charlotte

Mi Segunda Hogar

~6 Months~

Our 6 month anniversary began with me waking at midnight on Thursday, rapidly itching my entire body. My back burnt + in the dark I could feel bumps along my stomach + leg. In my sleepy state I wasn’t able to process what was happening + kept itching, my only thought being “oh, maybe there was a flea in my onesie”. I know, I know. Pretty stupid. When the itching got worse I started to be able to think + threw off the onesie, before running into the bathroom for light. Angry raised hives covered my body, I had a puffy red face expect for a white circle around each eye + my entire being itched. I immediately called my mum at home, who picked up straight away. (I still rely on her even when I live in another continent). She had to deal with my freaking out whilst trying to wake up but was totally wonderful. My normal advice is don’t call your parents with this sort of issue because they can’t do a lot + worry but my mumma calms me down + always helps☺️ I decided to let Giselle know what was happening (sorry bud) whilst my mum suggested I go to a hospital. Cue a very late night call to a sleepy Jake who was wonderful + came within 30 minutes to our house. I bid my farewells to my star of a mum + hopped in the truck. Huge thanks to Giselle who came along with me + translated whilst I was in the room. It was an allergic reaction. To what? Well, it was probably my fault.

The onesie I was wearing had been sitting in a pile of coats, towels, etc for maybe around 2 weeks. I assume this is what caused my problem, as it’s more than possible a bug crawled inside the furry covers to get comfortable. Or, possibly, a new life form had grown somewhere on it. Anyways, after 2 hours of sleep the bug must have awoken + bitten me, leading to my intense allergic reaction. Opps! These things happen + besides the seriously strong 2 lots of steroids that left me practically dead the next day (not to mention the fact the bruise made half of my hand green) I felt fine + survived the day, with some difficulty. Thank you so so much to all of the wonderful people worrying + looking out for me💙

Well, it wouldn’t be an anniversary without some sort of drama from me!

On Friday night we decided to splash out on some delicious treats: Baleadas, choocys (best cookies I’ve ever tasted) + these corn crisps with salsa dip. All of this was enjoyed whilst watching Ice Age 2 (one of the 14 films we got for 24L) which was definitely good spanish practice for me. I’m not gonna lie though, afterwards we both suffered food babies. I love this quality time we get to spend together; even if we do just end up laughing + playing “guess the Disney song” on our new improved WiFi.

The next day I felt a little rough, with stomach pain + all I’ll say is this increased drastically during the day. After a thrilling trip to the orthodontist (just the place you wanna spend your anniversary) we met up with Cat + Chloe who came to visit us. We had fun with the Sigua girls although my pain was getting more + more intense. There was lunch at a comedor + lots of time spent in Blueberry with smoothies + crepes (yum!) however after a trip to Esperanzano I was left on the floor as we waited for the bus.

Don’t panic, I was relatively okay, it just hurt less in fetal position (when in doubt, return to the womb) + though I was trying my best to hold it in for the others I’ll admit some tears wet the pavement beneath me. Fast forward after an extremely cramped, uncomfortable bus journey + the evening was spent in bed. I thought I was getting better but awoke at 2am with pains worse than before so spent the rest of the night freaking out in a ball on the kitchen floor. Thankfully due to time difference I could speak with my mumma + El (mi mejor amiga) which helped. Giselle was totally wonderful + really calmed me down + Cat joined us in the kitchen too to wait it out. Another call to Jake, another clinic visit + 2 days off school but I think I’m beginning to recover. It wasn’t the most fun weekend for the Sigua girls but what a way to celebrate 6 months… even with pain, allergic reactions + all the rest, I still love Honduras. I’m just hoping for a more successful visit for the girls next time!

So many people have been so wonderful whilst I’ve been having these few little issues. The neighbours fed me soup like there was no tomorrow all Sunday, Jake suffered 2 clinic trips + all my Honduran friends have been totally ace, including Giselle. I count my blessings everyday to be surrounded by such an incredible group of people, thank you to each + everyone of you!

^mamaged to take a short walk on Sunday + views like this remind me even when you’re going through hard times, the world is beautiful🌎

Shoutout to Giselle actually for being a big part of the reason why these past 6 months have been the best of my life. Even when we spend one night in the emergency clinic + one being pigs, there’s no one I’d rather have by my side. I couldn’t do it without you bud!!💙

Besides my adventures this past weekend, the start of our 6 month here saw us getting back into the swing of school + life in Yam. Whilst the boys were here we started the fun mini-tradition of movie nights. These entailed (yup, you guessed it) movies + lots of Honduran food. We had Daniel’s Honduran pasta, tortillas con quesillo, what I guess is plato catracho + even the extremely British food of a lentil + veggie dish!

We worked our way through our film pile featuring the good, the bad + the downright sad (titanic, looking at you). Roberto + Daniel are now back in Teguc at uni but we had loads of fun having the opportunity to hang out with people our own age. One day we even took a bunch of random buses to a dwarf forest. We ended up walking behind the owner of this forest to a clearing with ace views of the surrounding mountains. The actual forest, the dwarf forest, el bosque enano was actually almost impossible to see. I guess it was just a bunch of teeeeny tiny trees, because we struggled to find many! Supposedly this is the only one in the world so we have had the honour of seeing it therefore the day was worth it. I did end up getting so cold not only did my face turn pink but as well as my sweater I had to wear one of the boys too.

Whilst the boys were here we spent the majority of weekends hanging out with them. That involved going to La Esperanza + being amazed (/slightly worried) we knew more food places than them or taking long walks in Yam, often involving a sweet treat. We’ve had some serious moments (watching titanic) + some not so fun moments like when Giselle gave me a ‘make over’ which is really not my vibe but ended up being rather hilarious (pictured below). All in all, a really good month with some really good friends!

As well as the catrachos we’ve also spent time with the Americans this past month, most notably when I made yet another trip to Teguc. I really can’t get enough of that city!! I didn’t want to do a Travel Tales about this seeing as it mainly saw me getting very acquainted with the residency office where I read War + Peace for 3 hours. To sum it up, on Thursday morning we made the drive to the capital, buying McDonalds on arrival (something I don’t even eat in the uk) then along to the ALCS Teguc campus to grab the lawyer. After the residency was sorted it was effectively free time for me. The family we were with had to sort out American passports on Friday so we all stayed the night + travelled back the next afternoon.

There were mall visits where I tried the delight that was Auntie Em’s, ate Chinese + still had food money (from the school) left that I used to buy Giselle + I a strainer. The next morning I was up at 5:30, as per usual, and taking advantage of the small gym the hotel had. A stationary bike was my warmup, then a 20 minute run + stretches. I love starting my day like this – especially when I get to follow it with eating Plato típico over an ace view of the city with Mickenna! There was more unhealthy food that day with pizza (super yummy but glad I worked out) then we grabbed fritas (sweet corn pancakes with mantequilla) on the way home. All in all, a really nice little trip to the capital + thanks to our wonderful school I get free residency here which basically means I’m part catracha now 😉

I do have to admit, during these days I really missed my kiddos however the amount of hugs + “I missed you Miss”es that I received on Monday made me realise how lucky I am to have been given the chance to work with these little stars. Ah, 2nd Grade, you truly have my heart.

We’ve also had one of our American friends move into Yam which means we get to hang out more + were even invited in one Saturday for such a yummy Honduran lunch. This same day ser were also invited to a new teachers house for dinner + since her husband is a chef (+ she’s absolutely lovely) we had to say yes! We were treated further to chicken, pasta + veggies with an amazing post dinner strawberry smoothie, games + lots of chats. It’s pretty hard to be a hermit here because theres so many people to see + things to do!

On the topic of Americans, Life Group is back for the new year! These nights always see Giselle + I stuffing ourselves silly (especially when the theme is breakfast) leading to some pretty impressive food babies. I know we’re the kiddies of the group but honestly everyone treats us so so nicely + are always willing to help us/make our days, for example when Swanly gave us some free Baleadas at snack time! We’re always very appreciative of this, especially when it’s free food.

Fiesta Típica was the big event this month (written about here https://helpcharlottehelphonduras.wordpress.com/2018/02/10/fiesta-tipica/) but this next month will see us equally busy as it’s my 19th birthday (!), we’re making yet another trip to Teguc to see the boys + being treated to a visit from Rosie + Vegas. As well as all of this I’m sure there’s some wonderful surprises hidden around the bend we don’t know about yet☺️

It’s sad to think we’ve only got 6 months left in this country + with travel time there’s even less left in Yam. I’m struggling to come to terms with the fact we’re eventually going to have to move out of this ace little house, that I won’t be with Giselle everyday + that our wonderful 2nd family won’t be a couple of metres away. Yamaranguila truly is my 2nd home + I plan to cherish our time left here.

For now though, that’s all, from a little blue house in Yamaranguila,

Charlotte

PS. Very excitingly, with huge thanks to our friends Suzanne + Wesley, we now have shelves! My clothes aren’t on the floor🎉 the problems due to the mould have finally ended!

Fiesta Típica

Fiesta Típica was an absolutely crazy day. A wonderful day I really enjoyed, but a crazy one too. I guess that’s what you should expect from Honduras!

We’d been preparing for almost weeks, having our kids practice dances. Each class was given a department (mine was Intibuca, whoop whoop!!) + the dance was a part of this. 2nd Graders rocked out, or rather stomped out, to ‘Soy De La Esperanza’ whilst other noteable dances were “Sopa de Caracol” (snail soup) + a very macho machete dance by the older boys. During the week we’d been having whole school practices where those not dancing (due to cost of costumes + the such) were in a very sweet choir singing about how much we all love Honduras – a lot. Dancers were on our patio/stage area for over an hour, leading to quite a few Americans suffering sun burn as this week was seriously hot! I loved this time because I got to chill, enjoy the dances + be with my kiddies. Thanks to my man Allan I even got to rock a traditional Honduran hat:

We also stayed one day after school for near on 2 hours, 1st piecing together kebabs then sticking forks + napkins in plastic bags – a highly skilled job I might add. On the Friday we had a half day to finish preparations which saw Giselle + I making 250 chocobanaos which was a heck of a lot of fun. Since we both had a banana on us we got to take advantage of the leftover chocolate + sprinkles, although this left us feeling a little crappy after since we over indulged. I should point out we’re available for anniversaries, Christmas + birthdays!

On the actual day Giselle + I woke up a little later than normal (the alarm went off at 6:30) then we ran around madly getting ready. At this point we still though we would have dresses to change into school so threw on jeans + tshirts. The day started off windy as we walked around campus admiring the champas. Cue lots + lots of pictures. Once we realised there was no way we’d be getting our dresses (a little painful as we’d spent so long picking out colours + the such) I changed into my volunteeer polo. I figured the Honduran flag on the side made it sort of appropriate.

^ me pretending to have a dress…

To go with this I wore my honduras bracelets + our ace neighbours lent us some traditional lenca fabric they sent down with one of the older boys. Daniel sadly had already left for uni but we still had fun showing Roberto around + enjoying some Honduran delacicies: Baleadas + tamilitos de elote. Yum!

Eventually (due to the women making the dresses being 2 hours late) the performance started. We were treated to an incredible performance Oro Lenca who were wonderful. This was, by far, my favourite part of the day. Amazing dresses, upbeat music, vibrant colours + truly skillful dancing. Even some teachers were pulled up at one stage! I’d happily watch that performance all over again + again.. + again!

The kiddos dances were also adorable + we had a lot of fun sweltering in the midday heat watching these. Although a lot of kids had left due to the time it was still super cute + for the kids a really nice celebration of their culture.

After all the dances were done we rapidly tore down the champas (which did make me feel bad due to the hours of effort put into them) but was a lot of fun, especially kicking down the Lenca department! I sadly watched as Intibucá was demolished piece by piece + still think 2nd Grade parents did an ace job with it!

Finally, exhausted + starving, we headed home. Giselle + I proceeded to spend the rest of the evening in bed, trying to recover from the packed day. I’m so glad I got to experience more of the culture of this country + was given the opportunity to appreciate it for a whole day. Here’s to Honduras!

It’s our 6 month anniversary today so be expecting a blog about the craziness that has been the past half year soon! For now though, that’s all from a happy little blue house in Yamaranguila,

Charlotte x

100 Days of School

Friday marked our 100th day of school + therefore our 100th day of teaching.

Teaching is tough. To put this statement into context, teaching is one of the best things I’ve ever done. But man, it’s tough. There are some days your kids just don’t wanna learn, they are running wild + somehow it’s up to you to get them back in order. However, there are those other days (the majority of days) where your kids constantly put a smile on your face. I live for these days.

What’s surprised me about teaching? Well, for one, the fact I prefer teaching math to language. As a huge book obsesser I totally thought that reading would be my area + I’d share this passion with my kiddies. I still enjoy this but, for me, there’s something so satisfying about teaching math. The set rules, the wide variety of ways you can explain things.. it’s definitely a lot of fun! I think this is also due to the fact it’s incredibly hard to learn to read, especially when English isn’t my kids 1st language.

Another thing that’s surprised me is just the vast contrast between the students I have. Each one is so so unique + having 34 can make it sort of daunting as to how you can teach them as they all learn differently. This requires lots of patience, love, effort and yet more patience. This is what my kids deserve + what I try my hardest to give them!

The love I get from my kiddies really fills my soul with joy. Hugs, kind words, snacks + smiles everyday. The best part about my job for me in the day to day running of things is spending time with my kids. I feel like I’ve gotten to know 34 little buds super well 🙂 I’m so thankful for the time I’ve had with them!

Having authority is weird + possibly something some teachers take advantage of. For me, shouting is something I try not to do unless absolutely necessary (+ trust me, the few times I’ve used my “lawyer voice” I’ve felt so incredibly awful after). Honestly, sometimes your kids need to be disciplined, they need to be explained that what they are doing is unacceptable/disrespectful, etc however I try + explain this in a nice way. The hardest thing is when you’re having a stressful day (maybe there was no power, maybe the wind kept you up in the night, maybe it’s just a bad day) + there’s a kid really grating on you. These are the times where I have to take a deep breath, pause + remember how hard this is for my kiddies + how much work they put in. Could I go to school + speak Spanish all day? Most definitely not!

Abundant Life Christian Schools are bilingual private schools that have a scholarship programme within them. This means yes, some of our children pay + yes all lessons such as math, science + English are taught in English. But what this also means is that some of my children are extremely poor + are having the unique chance to have a truly amazing experience. If you were to speak to a 2nd grader you’d be seriously impressed at the level of English they have to comprehend, so imagine that in 7th grade or higher. For me, I’m so excited to think of my kids in a couple of years having this amazing level of English + being able to do things with it 🙂

When I tell people we’re assistants the reaction tends to be the same “ah; so you’re not really teachers”. To an extent this is true. No, I don’t lesson plan and no I don’t spend all of my time standing at the front of the class explaining. However, I cover classes (most recently 1st grade pe + what a crazy nightmare that was and 3rd grade) including my 2nd graders for a whole day that was fun, we’re always there in the class bobbing around helping + I obviously spend a significant amount of time with the boy in my class with autism. What I love about my job is how well I get to know my kids, the day to day interactions + spending that one on one time with the kids that really need it. Yes, I imagine teaching is tougher in some ways but nope, I wouldn’t wanna change my job for the world.

The newest addition to our teaching experience is nivelación. Here we actually are the teachers as we take the class once a day for spelling. It was a little daunting at first because the age range is from 8-14 (+ trust me some of those 14 year olds look almost the same as us) but we seriously LOVE it. There aren’t any behaviour problems (thus far) the kids are absolute darlings who do what we ask, laugh with us + generally brighten my day 🙂 it’s fun to plan our own lessons although I can’t say I love marking + working out grades. As to be expected of Honduras one night we lost power whilst marking so I ended up grading on the floor by candle light, eating a scrumptious enchilada gifted by our neighbours. That sentence pretty much sums up life here!

^ how our class distinguish between us, haha

After Christmas I began working in 6th grade for one period a day, assisting with language. Sometimes I don’t understand the language being taught (haha because it’s English) but it’s a nice refresher for me! What I like about the older classes is how much they make me laugh + the fact you can have a full conversation with them – for example about tv shows you like to watch. On the flip side, the reason I love 2nd Grade so much + why they have my heart is because of how much love they constantly give. I always receive love notes, more recently on my hands than on paper + am constantly hugged. Although you can’t chat with them as much, they are so so much fun to be around☺️ I also have a huge pile of paper sheets full of “I love you”s at home as there are now too many to put on my wall!

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We still teach our neighbours which is going super well + is such a nice addition to our teaching experience at school. Except sometimes we have the problem of power cuts leading to teaching by candle + torch light, but hey, it’s Honduras. I’m so thankful for all the time we get to spend with our 2nd family here💙

<<bfrom a little blue house in Yamaranguila,

Charlotte