Day 2

After a long and busy day of travel, everyone enjoyed a good night of sleep.  Our day started with the sound of howler monkeys ringing through the rainforest. We all ate an amazing Costa Rican breakfast of fresh fruit,eggs,toast, juice, beans, and rice. We also tried the good chocolate (dark chocolate that they make here on the farm)

Afterwards we were given an eye opening educational presentation by Pablo, who is the owner of Finca La Anita. I personally found it extraordinarily inspiring learning about the future carbon neutrality, the lack of army, and the 30% of the country that is dedicated to nature. It was so beautiful I almost cried!  -----Todd

First year students and a couple of second year students went on a farm tour with Pablo. The tour showed us all of the amazing plants around the area, including coconuts, plantains, cacao, macadamia, yucca, mangos and more! Coming from Minnesota, it’s hard to imagine being able to walk outside and pick mangos fresh off of a tree.  In typical rainforest fashion, it started pouring rain while we were on our way back.  Attempting to stay dry, Pablo, Raymond, and I sprinted across cinderblock paths in the rainforest, ducked under logs, and quickly waded across a fast-moving stream.---- - Maxim

I had coconut water. -Todd

                Next was lunch, It was very delicious. After lunch we geared up to go to the small village near Finca La Anita; Colonia Libertad. There were a variety of single story houses, all with large gardens with chickens. We bought ice cream and candy in the village. Upon return we started working on our research projects. We got into groups, did a quick lab, and went on a preliminary ant-search. After a quick break, everyone went to dinner of chicken, mashed potatoes, beans and squash.  For dessert we had a great pound cake and ice cream. Then we had free time telling stories on the porch.---- - Isaac

I am alive mom! -----Todd