Sea to Sea Day 7, January 4, 2009

Matiguas to Boaco

Today was our first full day on pavement. Wow we were able to cover a lot more ground in less time. Although I have to admit that I like the challenge of being on the rougher roads.

From Sea to Sea 2009

We started out in 3 groups today being more intentional about staying together on the busier highways. Thankfully most of the buses and trucks have been really respectful. We turned off in this cute little town called Muy Muy which translates as very, very. The names of the towns that we have been through have been so fun to read and even more fun to say. :-) Mulukukú, Wanawana, Saraway, Talasna, Kukalya just to name a few.

Luis

Anyway back to Muy Muy. While we pulled off on the side of the road and were filling up on water and a few snacks there was an elderly Nicaraguan gentelman who came and stood beside the group. I didn't notice him at first but Luis did. Luis who has a kind heart of service towards others without saying a word went and made this man a sandwich. As Luis handed him the sandwich he turned and walked away. It all happened so fast and I don't think many around the rest stop even noticed but Luis was sensitive to see the need of this man and cheerfully give. Luis was a part of the national cycling team a few years ago here and was so excited to be a part of this adventure. He and I would "race" each other to the rest stops and see who finished first at the end of the day. Being a bike mechanic he was also very willing to help anyone with an ailing bike. With a joyful smile and lots of excitement he stopped in to join a church's worship service as we were biking through today.

Some of the views today were absolutely amazing as we came down and into Boaco. I feel so rich to be able to take experience the nature and beauty of Nicaragua in this way. Though we went 76 kilometers today we rolled into Boaco around 2 in the afternoon. Our earliest finish yet. It was refreshing to be able to rest and relax a little in the afternoon sun and cool breeze. How appropriate for the Lord's day.

John led us in worship and then we shared the Lord's supper together. When in Nicaragua things always call for a little improvising. We used tortillas and gatorade. It was a special time of sharing. We ended 'church' with our theme song for the trip. My friends may you grow in grace. That song gets me every time!

Afterwards Carolina one of the gals who works with Acción Medica Cristiana shared with us about the project that the money we raised went to fund. The money was used to buy seed for a large number of families and communities along the Coco River. The project is to not only provide seed to replant but to help the people store seed from each crop for the upcoming planting season by storing it in a community seed bank. The communities have harvested thier first crop of rice and soon will harvest thier first crop of beans since the hurricane. AMC is also extending the project in order to teach the farmers how to plant some different types of crops that will help provide more variety of income for their families. The people in this region do not use much in terms of money but trade their rice or beans for oil, soap or other necessary items. It is so encouraging to hear how the money has already been invested and making a difference.