It is pretty remarkable that my whole trip down to Managua went perfectly. I kept waiting for there to be a tropical storm that delayed me four hours which would mess up my pick up from the airport... or something. Instead, I always had my own row on the plane (2 flights) so I could lay down and sleep (which I did, twice) and I arrived punctually. I good omen I'd say. I didn't get to see Nicaragua from the plane as I was sitting in the second to last row of the airplane where there are no windows. My first glimpse of this beautiful country was in the terminal. I have a really good feeling about Nica; the landscape is gorgeous and lush, even Managua as a city has this good energy. I am aware that there is much to fear in Latin American cities, but I haven't felt threatened yet.
Alana set up a taxi driver to come get me. He was waiting for me inside the airport with a sign that Alana wrote in green pen GILLIAN GALDY. He picked me out immediately and waved. I guess there are oh so many gringas my age walking around the luggage area. He doesn't speak English, nor I Spanish, but we managed to enjoy each others company. He pointed out the direction of Masaya, knowing that is where I was headed for language school. The ride was exciting. I have never been truly alone in a country that isn't totally Westernized. Looking around at the shops, the people, the horse buggies was enough to finally help me believe what I'm actually doing. Just as I was getting anxious about the long drive we show up at the hospital where Alana works; and there she is standing outside. I feel like I never left her in Israel and I'm so happy to be with her in Managua. We went back to her house, where I am now. We went out to lunch but she has to go back to work. I am now completely exhausted so I am going to take a much needed nap.
So I'm here, I'm safe, and I'm happy. Love you all.
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