Hawaii Preparatory Academy: Costa Rica 2014

Once again, we were well-fed all day long. It really does bear repeating because the food is so good. Our first stop today took us to another local elementary school. 

We were each given the opportunity to observe a class in session and could empathize with teachers working against the days leading up to winter vacation and futbol fever (Ole, ole, ole, ole, Los Ticos, Los Ticos!). We joined the teachers to watch the game between two shifts of students. It was an uneventful game but props to La Sele's goalie.

Davis then drove us to our next visit at El Paraiso Organic Farm. Daniel welcomed us to his family farm and a wonderful lunch (of course!). 

Through stories and stops on a walking tour, we learned why he has engaged in organic sustainable farming. His generous spirit and enthusiastic commitment to do right by the planet and help people in his community here and across the world inspired us all. His honesty in sharing the horrendous practices and personal suffering that motivated him were at times difficult to listen to but we were all glad to hear his story (enabled by Jenn's steady careful translation). It was informative to hear about their family's home stay experience, too, from both the parents and the children. 

Our "dinner of one's own" gave us the opportunity to talk separately about women's and men's roles and issues in Costa Rica. We were impressed again by the honesty and openness with which experiences were shared with us.

It was a full day, and we look forward to all of the learning and adventure that still awaits.