Carnaval, Miss Playa and Work

Last night kicked off the beginning of Carnaval Utila 2008, a week long celebration of loud music, food, fireworks and antics. It began just outside the doors of BICD (my dive shop) with a parade consisting of the varying levels of Miss ______ of this year and last. The ladies, accompanied by the Naval Academy Cadets, looked stunning. I felt like I was watching a prom. They were followed by the schools marching band, who are pretty fantastic! It seemed like the whole island turned out for the festivities as it was nearly impossible to walk down the street. As I know two of the people involved, I was slightly obligated to attend and further obligated to take pictures. My room mate was voted Miss Playa 2008, the first gringo in island history to take the title. As well, our shops receptionists' daughter was one of the Junior Miss something or other.

I made my way through the crowd to try and get a good spot at the stage so I could get in a few good shots. While waiting for them all to walk down to the stage, there were two little boys playing with one of the sticky things on a rope that you throw at a wall. I got an amazing picture of them. As the ladies paraded down the "red carpet" and up the stairs, I grabbed a couple shots of all of them and a few extra of Miss Playa. After she was crowned I headed to the bar for L15 drinks (L is limpera, the currency here). Shortly after, I headed home to bed.

Today is my first actual shift working as a Dive Master and there are actually people for me to lead. I'm really nervous. I hope I don't lose the boat!