Day 5: Horses, Group Research, and Cafe Campesino

It's hard to believe how beautiful Costa Rica is.  What is even more amazing are the people we have met.  From the tour drivers to the Cabellaros  that led us on our ride up the volcano, everyone is genuinely warm and friendly.  The National motto, Pura Vida (Happy Life) is more than an expression, its a way of life.

The horses were wonderful and chosen for the experience of the riders.  It was a great ride (no one fell off!) topped off by an amazing view of our research site, Finca la Anita.  We made it all the way up to the top of Santa Maria.

Warming up on our new best friends

 

We had the chance to walk through an avenue of Eucalyptus trees that must have been at least one hundred years old.  So beautiful!

Our two caballeros were very patient with us.  We needed all the help we could get, since most of the troupe had not ridden before.  In the distance was the ranch, Finca la Anita.  We are told that on a clear day you can see Nicaragua, but today there were too many clouds.

After a ride back down the mountain, we were all pretty pleased.... and sore,

but it was a well worth it!

In the afternoon, we were back to our group projects.  All of the work is now in the hands of the young scientists.  We have to admit, there's a renewed enthusiasm that's nice to see.  Even on this first day of the projects the ideas are impressive.

On to Dinner

After the afternoon of research we had the opportunity to make our own dinner at Cafe Campesino.  Our chef, teacher, and hostess Aracelly, was  welcoming, patient and brave as she invited 11 students into her kitchen to make an authentic Costa Rican meal.

Louisa Fiertz flips tortillas over a wood burning stove.

Tony Wang and Ben Wilkinson assemble a salad, including locally grown flowers.

Katherine Wetzel smells spices for the rice and beans.

Connor Ryan sautees vegetables.

Maizy Nunes and Alex O'Loughlin make queso fresco.  Feels great!

The whole gang thought the meal was a success. 

What a night.  We all enjoyed the local culture, including music and an impromptu salsa lesson from Eddie, our driver.  Buenos Noches, from Finca la Anita, From Holly and Bob.  Pura Vida!!!!!!