Despite blisters and back aches and sleep deprivation the whole gang managed to put on their dancing shoes and made their presence known at la discoteca. The group was welcomed by fellow Nicaraguans and made some friends on the dance floor.
The 6:30am wake up call came sooner than expected, but with a full day ahead the group pulled themselves together and prepared to load on the bus and take on the day that would consist of Volcano Masaya, Pedro the potter, a laguna and Jaraochita Masaya. We arrived at the volcano but due to active conditions and high winds, part of the path at the top was obstructed. The experience was breathtaking when we hiked up to the border of the active crater. After adventuring around the volcano, we boarded back on the bus en route to visit Pedro's studio. We were witness to political presentations celebrating the eight year anniversary of the election of Daniel Ortega. Next, we had the privilege of watching the hard work that goes into authentic Nicaraguan pottery by Pedro, who taught himself art of pottery at a young age. His work is well known worldwide and he hopes to inspire the next generation of potters by starting his own school. We learned that the materials were all locally sourced. One piece of pottery takes 15 days to finish. We quickly managed to wipe out his showcase of elaborate pottery (lucky friends and family at home may benefit from this shopping spree). After visiting Pedro, we traveled to the laguna and had the chance to relax and have the chance to experience the leisurely aspects of this beautiful country. Our afternoon was spent in the caldera of a now extinct volcano swimming, kayaking and tanning. The refreshing water was just what the doctor ordered after several of hard physical labor and minimal sleep. After relaxing for a few hours, we then toured the Plaza, a typical feature of a Spanish colonial city. The vendors sold everything from fresh fruit smoothies to leather goods to colorful hammocks. After leaving the plaza with considerably lighter pockets, dinner was served at Jarochita Masaya, a Mexican restuarant in the heart of the city. We were happy to give the restaurant business when it was losing customers due to road construction. After a great meal spent with wonderful company, the group went back on the bus crammed with pottery, hammocks and wet towels back to JHC for our second to last night of the trip. Stay tuned for the final chapter of our trip before returning stateside.

Cheers,
Morgan, Drew and Cat

P.S. Mom and Dad- I am alive and well, don't worry!
-Cat