Friday, January 16, 2009

Buenas suerte, com todos.

Last evening was our final English class in El Sauce before we go to Managua.
It wrapped up with a rowdy game of "hot seat" — Team Left and Team Right had a member sit, back to the white board, facing their teammates. One person chose a piece of paper with a word or famous person or place on it from Adam and Meredith and wrote it on the board.
The "hot seater" had to guess what it was from the clues. I don't remember who won but the room was full of hints, hollers and yelps of joy when someone got it right.
"They make movies here," said Enrique when it was my turn.
"Hollywood!" I said, as Team Left threw their hands for claiming such a fast victory.
Michael Jordan was guessed with one word — basketball — and Mike Tyson was a sure bet with a tug of the ear and a chomping gesture.
I had taken photos of the class in front of the small chapel during the day. It was lunch hour but more than a dozen students walked from work to the town center, rode their bikes or took a bike taxi to be included. I forgot my computer to show them the results, so Kellan ran to my house to get it.
While he was gone, I thought they were waiting. Instead, the class all pitched in money to buy ice cream and throw us a thank-you celebration.
"To all the visitors from Geneseo, we have bought this ice cream with a lot of appreciation for you. Thank you for being with us and teaching us," said Yeremelitha before the group to applause.
We all said a little something.
"Thank you all it's been a great two weeks. It's been a life-changing experience," said Meredith.
We exchanged e-mail addresses with all the students who have access to computers. For most, we exchanged phone numbers with the hopes we can stay in touch and be there when they are fluent!
Ileana hugged me and invited me to stay at her house next time I come to El Sauce; "we hope to see you another year," many said to us as they shook our hands, hugged us and blew the traditional kiss beside our faces in farewell.

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