Reflection from Amy

Today (Day 7) after breakfast, the children from Dos Brazos Del Rio Tigre came to the research center to surprise us. Everyone was delighted to see the children again and have them stay for the rest of the afternoon. First we watched a presentation about the Osa Peninsula’s water shed and about what the researchers study here in Piro, Costa Rica. Then we were paired up with a child from the village to collect various insects and water-dwelling invertebrates at the river. We also tested the river water for nitrates, dissolved oxygen levels, pH, and alkalinity with the researchers’ special equipment. Later, we divided into two groups and tackled a team jump roping challenge. We struggled to push past level two, in which one person had to jump continuously, the other teammates had to jump at least once, and no one could make a mistake. Although it was tough to get conflicting personalities to agree and work together, we succeeded by listening to each other’s perspectives, being open to trying ideas, remaining calm, and being considerate of our teammates’ feelings. After dinner we faced another challenge: getting through dinner, anchor, and preparing for bed without electricity. As a nice ending to another beautiful day in Costa Rica, we all listened to Javier and Sarah tell their life stories, perspectives on the present, and future aspirations. Then we wrote our own stories, which are far from finished. As a side note, during the night we heard howler monkeys and it was really scary.

A note to my family: Hi Mom, Dad, and Patti! I hope you guys are doing well back in Cali. I’m having a great time in Costa Rica but can’t wait to come home and see you guys! See you soon <3