If I had to use one word to sum up our first day in Costa Rica it would be "relationships". Our Seniors arrived at the school in Cot with some apprehension and nervousness that was replaced by the end of the day with friendships and an ease with their new Costa Rican amigos that was a beautiful thing to watch.
After being served breakfast and meeting with the principal of the school, we joined a group of Costa Rican students for a trip to the volcano. We split the students between two buses, with instructions to sit by a new friend. On our bus, we sang our respective National Anthems, including the German anthem from Julius Peter! Chatter was abundant, laughter ensued, and Instagram names were exchanged. Teenagers are the same irrespective of nationality.
We stopped at the park at the volcano and took a hike to the peak. The hike was short in distance, but was very steep, having us all working hard to make it to the top! The effort was worth it as the view was incredible, on a rare, perfectly clear day.
Upon our return to school, we were served lunch by our gracious hosts. Their heart as they cared for our students was evident. The afternoon was spent playing games with our friends from the morning. Water balloon tosses, tic tac toe relays, dancing, and of course some futbol, had all the students laughing and engaging all afternoon.
We returned to our host families for the remainder of the afternoon, to rest and once again be served an amazing meal. The graciousness is humbling. The group met again in the evening at an indoor futbol facility. Boys and girls teams played some intense and highly competitive games. It was supposed to be Americans vs Costa Ricans, but even Game 1 was changed up to be a mix. Our Seniors - and Bob, Daniel, and Carlos, our leader here in Costa Rica - held their own and enjoyed the competition.
The students are overwhelmed with the welcome they have received and the manner in which they have been served. Hearts are changing. I can't wait to see what Day 2 holds!
Lori Horton
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| Lauren Alsborg and Daniel Lopez |
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| Marie Farmer, Caroline Kredensor, Gracie Floyd, Abbey Long, Jacey King, and Kelcie Teal |
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| Abbey Long |
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| Mary Grace Williams, Emily Goad, Lauren Alsborg, Luke Horne |
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| Julius Peter, Lauren Alsborg, Abbey Long, Delayne Nickles, Tyler Bradley, Luke Horne |
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| Will Maddox, Andrew Duwe, Braden Tuttle, Warner Watkins |
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