Maggie McCleskey’s first thoughts of Mexico

I can already tell that joining this trip to Mexico was a very good choice. We have only been here a few days, and already I’ve gotten my kayak roll back, paddled some beautiful and fun stretches of river, and made some great new friends. Mayan and Marisol have been so energetic and excited about all that we do… it’s so contagious! I’ve never taken Spanish before, but I’m starting to pick up some words (and I’ve become pretty good at using hand motions). The town of Jalcomulco is so welcoming and the mountains that surround us help to realize the beauty of the world that we live in. The structures are so colorful and eye-catching; I love it. Katie is leaving tomorrow, so that is a bummer because she’s been so supportive on the rivers and fun to talk to. Jessica is hilarious, and we can relate to each other because we speak about 4 words of Spanish and never know exactly what’s happening… ha. Just to name a couple of the many awesome things we’ve been up to… last night we got to participate in some kind of fiesta ritual in the town. We kissed baby Jesus dolls and watched a piñata. We also had a lesson about ‘Character’ and leadership. Together with Marisol, Mayan, Ellie, and Becca, I came up with some pretty cool things. Kristin and Sean have been amazing, because they’re helping us bring two totally different cultures together on this expedition. I’m so glad that I got to be a part of it. I can’t think of a better way to break in the New Year than to be in a different place, with different people, experiencing life in a new way with a new outlook.