Xiloa with my adopted Nica Family

When I arrived to the airport on the 29th, I went straight to Ciudad Sandino to visit my "adopted Nica Family" aka Don Freddy's family (the Canos). Before I left for the states they invited me to come and spend New Years with them so I wouldn't be alone in Somoto. I would have found something to do in Somoto, but I figured it was better to try a new place and hang out with the Canos. The next day they took me to Xiloa, a volcanic lake (we call it a laguna) nearby. It was a beautiful 80 degree day and perfect swimming weather! I was so excited to go swimming! Surprisingly the water was pretty clean and I even gave the girls swimming lessons. It was so nice of the Canos to invite me into their home and take me on a trip with them. They are a rare find in Nicaragua, a family who does everything together despite a modest living.

The first lifeguard tower I have seen in Nica! They are only there during the busy times like holidays.

There are little huts you can sit under to enjoy the view and have a picnic.

Another shot of the laguna

And another...

You can see the old parts of the volcano all around.

From the left, me, Vera (11 yrs. old), Freddy Jr. (18), and Dayana (14)

We did the "ok kids, now you can get thrown off Katie's shoulders", I've always been the "base" person ever since I could lift my sister up.

Dayana and I

Teaching the girls how to float, very important!

Almost a chicken fight, but more just a pose for the camera

I even got Freddy Jr. to get on my shoulders, the kid only weighs 125 lbs or so!

Relaxing under one of the huts.

Shot of the group

Another pretty shot of the laguna

Another cute shot with the Cano kids.

Vera had alot of fun taking pictures with my camera, I let her go nuts with it

One of the nearby mountains at sunset, I love the clouds so much here!