November: Transfer!

On November 18th, Spencer wrote he has now been transferred to Diriamba, Carazo, Nicaragua. He is in the same stake, but a different zone. The weather is a little bit cooler.

Here's some info on Diriamba:

 

Diriamba is a municipality in the Carazo department of Nicaragua, with a population of 31,200 (2005). It is located to the west of Jinotepe.

Coordinates: 11°51′N 86°14′WThe city is well known in the country by a number of idiosyncratic events and landmarks, as well as its mild weather, rich agricultural lands and jovial people. The city celebrates the life and story of the Chorotega chieftain named Diriangen, and famed by his struggle against the invasion by the Spanish conquistadors.

During the month of January, the city celebrates the annual festival of San Sebastian, Diriamba's patron saint. The week-long celebration culminates with the marching of El Gueguense, a complex dance incorporating both Christian and pagan traditions in a satirical criticism to the Spanish colony. The Gueguense is the first precolonial literary figure in Nicaraguan history. It was allegedly written by an unknown author in the 17th century. The storyline hails back to the years of the colony and by confusing Spanish and Nahuatl word sounding alike, it makes fun of Spanish authorities.

His new companion is Elder Rojas who is a convert from Costa Rica.