Not only did I score epic waves during my trip, I made life long friendships. Noelani Anderson and I quickly became chica besties. She was my roomie in our aqua marine apartment we affectionately named “The Lady Ship.” Noe, Elsi, Shelby, and I all had some pretty awesome adventures, surfed incredible waves, had spontaneous dance parties and met a lot of incredible women who not only had the courage to learn how to surf but trusted us to teach them.
After leaving my job at Chica Brava, I moved back to Central California and became a full on cowgirl. I had just gotten into horseback riding when I came to Chica Brava and Blue from Rancho Chilamate became my hero! Not only is she an amazing horsewoman, businesswoman, designer, creator, and dreamer, she gives back to her local community in a way that inspires and motivates you deep down to your soul. Here in Santa Barbara I started helping out at a local cattle ranch and quickly fell in love with all things rancher. I’ve spent early mornings gathering, sorting, and vaccinating cattle and then gone surfing in the afternoon. What a crazy dichotomy the surfing and ranching worlds are! I got my own horse, a beautiful bay American Quarter Horse whom was aptly named Sparkle Pony.
I will always be grateful for the time I spent at Chica Brava. I learned a lot about myself and was encouraged by all the amazing strong women I had the fortune of meeting. Nicaragua will always hold a special place in my heart, not only for the constant off shores, consistent south swells and beautiful water but the wonderful people that make it feel like home.
Lauren McFarland
Chica Check-In August