#8 The past month

I’m still not sick of rice and beans. I actually crave them now- which is strange and a little embarrassing. I’m actually not sick of any of the food here- it doesn’t really matter how miserably full I feel, I can’t seem to pass up any opportunity to eat because I’m here in Costa Rica and everything is GOOD.

A view of my neighborhood from my school.

I’ve still been doing neat things! I’d love to say that I’ve been really busy and unable to find time to write a blog in these past few weeks… but that would be a lie. Life has been eventful, relaxing and great.

A few weeks ago my Alternative health class traveled about 20 minutes outside of San Jose to visit an indigenous community up in the Mountains. An older man showed us his property full of different plants that his community uses as medicine- everything from roots, tree bark, leaves, berries, and the liquid from a stem used as stimulants, caffeine, a cleanse and even birth control. After showing us the community burial ground, sacred areas and spiritual ceremonies, he and his wife fed us coffee and a delicious snack- a bean & egg tamale-like sandwich. I loved visiting because there is so much culture. The traditions and lifestyle in the community has so much depth yet it is so simple and quiet up in the mountains.

The black hut is where pregnant women relax and give birth.

One thing that was particularly interesting about the tribe is their birth and death traditions. When a person from the tribe dies, the body is burial is a three-day process. The community celebrates by drinking a fermented corn drink (along with other alcohol), smoking marijuana or salvia and dancing. When a child is born the elders of the community meet to discuss how the child should be raised and how they can each help assure that the child will be successful and productive within the community.

Three traditional burials.

Two weeks ago some friends and I made a trip to Montezuma, which is located on the tip Nicoya Peninsula, on the Pacific. For about $13 we took a bus from San Jose to a small town called Puntarenas and then hopped on a ferry to the Peninsula. The trek was quite exciting because part of our group barely made it onto the bus since the line was so long & busy. Luckily we snagged the last two seats and I was able to share a delightful ride with an older woman named Ninny. We made very little conversation as we mostly sat and ate during the ride. I shared my peanuts, she offered me grapes, then I split a pack of crackers and she gave me some penguin gummy snacks.  As I was zoning out she whipped out a lime from the bottom of her bag and placed it in my hands- I wasn’t sure if she was expecting me to eat it right then and there so instead I just kept holding it. Before getting off the bus she slipped me some gummy bears and then was on her way.

We had so much fun on the ferry! We sat on the front deck of the ferry laughing, talking and watching the sunset.

As of right now Montezuma has been my favorite trip. It’s a small town with so much to do! There are waterfalls, all kinds of tours and boat rides, turtle rescues and both small and large beaches. A large beach was about a 45-minute walk from our hostel. Aside from a few morning surfers our group owned the beach! We also spent some time hiking up to the waterfalls, which were gorgeous. We knew it’d be a great adventure from the start since the sign at the trailhead read “People have died here”.

After quite the hike (mostly because we took the wrong trail 2 or 5 times) we were able to see all three waterfalls and spend sometime jumping off into the water and pretending to be Tarzan on the rope swing.

Since it’s the off-season the town was pretty empty and quite, but I’m sure Montezuma still has its charm even during the busy season. It was also very conducive to our big group since there is only one bar in Montezuma- meeting up and spending time with everyone was made easy.

Unlike other weekends, the adventure didn’t stop when we returned to San Jose. Costa Rica’s rival teams, La liga and Saprissa, played in San Jose! For about $12 my friends and I just about peed our pants as we experience pure Costa Rican soccer culture. I guess I can’t really speak for my friends, but I’ll go ahead and admit it.

Entering and leaving the stadium were events in themselves; the packed streets lined with “horse cops” were intimidating! Things got pretty serious when an older man walking by our group stopped to tell us to stay in the stadium after the game for our safety.

The game was the most eventful, cultural, exciting and frightening thing that I’ve experienced in San Jose. The cheering and spirit surrounding the stadium was overwhelming and exciting! The chants, songs and a mesh of team colors gave me goose bumps! At the end of the tied game we were so kindly escorted to our ride by the police.

My class also took another field trip to Puerto Viejo, the same place I traveled to a few weekends ago. This trip was especially fun because the school paid for lodging and meals! We spent Saturday hiking up to an indigenous families property, (slipping in mud and learning about different plants on the way) and then eating a delicious meal.

 My professor’s wife owns a hostel just south of Puerto Viejo, which is very close to Panama. The hostel is right across the street from the beach and looked and felt like we were staying in a giant tree house. So far it has been my favorite hostel! While relaxing in the common area my professor sat with us and told us how he acquired particular decorations and items in the hostel- everything had a neat story.

 We spent Saturday and Sunday relaxing, sitting on the beach, playing in the waves and eating delicious meals at a restaurant down the road from the hostel. I loved spending time with my classmates and professor outside of the classroom!

My Professor on the beach!

The weeks are still flying by! I can barely distinguish one from the next!

Tyrone still picks on me and we still laugh together. I can’t even recall particular things anymore because it happens more than once a day. He did, however, suggest that I go to “Kooters” to watch an American football game. Then he demonstrated by pulling his shorts to his mid thigh and pretending to eat a chicken wing.

Vanessa still obsesses over any concern I might have- last week I got heartburn for the first time in my life (I thought I was dying) and she has asked me how my stomach is feeling everyday since.  She also warns me every time she sees me sneak into the kitchen for my 2^nd or 3^rd cup of coffee.

This past weekend I traveled to Jaco- a very commercialized beach about 2.5 hours west of San Jose. I had a great time in Jaco but I can’t say I was impressed with the town or the beach. Since the town is so touristy the town isn’t as unique, clean or cheap as other beach towns in Costa Rica. Now recapping on my weekend I can’t say much about Jaco other than that I slept and ate there. Since there isn’t much opportunity to relax in San Jose, all I want to do on the weekends is lay around with my friends, watch TV and each chips and salsa- which is exactly what I found myself doing in Jaco. I loved every minute of it! Traveling is great but is really starting to wear me out. Forgive me for traveling to the Pacific coast to lie in a bed and watch TV…

I’m really missing home now that it is almost thanksgiving! I never thought it would be this hard to away from all of the family gatherings and the homecomings of friends! Luckily the study abroad program is serving us a thanksgiving meal and… I get to see my parents on Friday!

I can’t wait to see them and show them this country! I’m sure my Dad has been practicing his 2 staple Spanish phrases… 1) “leche porfavor” 2) “Como estasustedmuybienytu” (said all at once).

#7 San Jose

My rash is getting better! The past week it has been very sensitive, painful and itchy, but finally it is feeling much better. Every time I left or returned home Vanessa would ask me how my rash looked and felt. I’ve gotten used to laying around the house with my shirt only half on and my stomach glistening with some sort of healing crème (I have 4 different kinds). I was using baby rash crème given to me from Vanessa a few days ago, but it dried out my skin and then made it itchy. I went to the pharmacy again earlier this week and got another type of crème that I think is similar to Neosporin… except it seems like almonds and dries like candle wax…

During past weekends in Costa Rica I have been spending a lot of energy, time and money while traveling. This weekend many students (myself included) decided to stay in San Jose to relax and explore more of the city.

On Friday I went downtown with some friends to go thrift shopping for Halloween costumes. I came up with my costume idea based on its cost… I used white masking tape and a red shirt to make a stop sign outfit. The stop signs here say “ALTO” which actual means tall or high, but somehow means “stop” as well.

Our time downtown was cut short by frustration and the classic mid-day downpour; an impossibly dry occasion. Doesn’t matter if you wear a raincoat, roll up your pants and carry an umbrella- you will get wet.

Downtown San Jose is neat and busy, but it’s little too loud and claustrophobic for my liking. Maybe it is just my lack of patience and grace; I usually just walk in the streets wherever I go because the sidewalks are cracked, narrow and spotted with holes. I can’t complain though, Kenya (my friend with a wheel chair) has more motivation and patience for San Jose’s ramp-less & inaccessibility than I.

At 5:45 AM on Saturday morning Jocelyn and I met our friends Sarah, Alison and Jessie to catch taxis for the bus station. By 6:30 AM we were on a bus heading north to La Paz waterfall gardens, near Volcano Poas.

The downpour of rain welcomed our arrival to a beautiful hotel overlooking rolling hills of forest. We spent the morning running from different pavilions filled with butterflies, sloths, snakes, monkeys, jungle cats and frogs. My personal favorite was the cuddling Pumas. I was so jealous of their affection, fur and warm nook that doubled as shelter from the rain.

Nothing welcomed us better than the hot coffee, fireplace and steaming buffet for lunch. The large pavilion was empty, so naturally, we spent a significant amount of time talking, laughing loudly and returning to the buffet at least 3 different times.

After lunch when the rain had stopped we hiked down to the different waterfalls which were brown in color because of the rain. We caught the last bus back to San Jose in the afternoon and headed straight home to take naps in preparation for a Halloween celebration later that night.

Although Halloween isn’t as popular or widely celebrated here in Costa Rica, it was here that I experienced the most disturbing and horrifying Halloween. A bunch of students started the night at our neighborhood bar; it is here that we all meet, chat and buy cheap drinks before we make plans for the night. A few of us had decided on going to a concert downtown, but once we arrived, the venue was packed and tickets were sold out.

Jocelyn, Jonathan, Mark and I debated on waiting to get in to the concert, but quickly decided to venture to different parts of San Jose. We hopped in another taxi and headed to “La Calle” (The Street)- a popular area for drinking & dancing.

As we approached the first club we saw, the bouncer let us in before the long line of Ticos- thus, feeling uncomfortable begun before even entering the club. We weaseled our way through the sticky, sweaty crowd until we found room to breath and stand comfortably.

It was on the 4^th floor that we noticed a few people wearing latex gloves and a shirtless man laying on a table in small seating area that was blocked off. Up above we noticed the television screens that were showing a close-up view. The man was getting each of his breast muscles “pierced” with metal hooks (about 5/6 inches in length).

We stood in awe, wondering why the man:

1) Was having the procedure done

2) Had the procedure at a night club

3) Was wearing a woven cloth as a diaper/long skirt (Did I mention this!?)

I have vivid memories of his feet ever so slightly bouncing and curling while lying on the table (maybe from the pain?).

The camera stopped taking close-up shots and the Televisions turned off, so we tried to begin making light of our new club experience.

It wasn’t even 10 minutes later when there was more commotion. Down on the first floor of the club the newly pierced man stood underneath a metal bar and chains that hung from the ceiling. The hooks on his chest were connected to the chains, which was actually a sort of pulley system…

He was then raised into the air, above all the people in the club, hanging from his two pierced breasts.

As if this wasn’t enough, he then began to slowly swing back and forth- his legs dangling from his cloth diaper/skirt.

As you can imagine, our adventure ended promptly. We prepared to make the trek out of the club. Before we could make it out of the club we found out that two other participants were next- one getting pierced on the back and the other on the knees.

Aside from feeling ill and confused, it was an experience I’ll never forget. Nonetheless, the low key and cheap weekend in San Jose was nice and refreshing. As a result from staying here, I haven’t felt deathly tired this week!

Since my Spanish class is done now, I have every morning free to do whatever- but I am getting worse at Spanish. Not only because I’m not listening and speaking the language for 4 hours in class, but also because I keep encountering people who speak English.

It’s always on the days that I’m actually feeling ambitious. It’s the days that I decide to ask an occasional or unnecessary question while at the grocery store or around the neighborhood. The classic scenario: I nervously ask the question, the person responds in Spanish, and I either look confused or say “Como?” and then they just answer my question in perfect English.

This same scenario has taken place about 5 times with various people; a middle aged woman who had just moved back to Costa Rica after living in France for 7 years, an older man from Oklahoma, my Vin Diesel look-alike spinning instructor, a sweet little lady behind a reception desk and a 14 year old Asian girl at the convenient store who asked me about taking the SAT after answering my question in perfect English. I didn’t really know how to tell her that I’m 21, I only know one language and I never took the SAT. On this note I’m going to go practice Spanish, and do my homework or try to succeed at something. Pura Vida!

#6 woahs and woes Puerto Viejo

Well, my Spanish exam went okay. I just basically sweated and stuttered the entire 20 minutes. I had to interview a mock patient in a doctors office setting- ask them health questions, give recommendations take their blood pressure, weigh and measure them. Since I loosened the screw on the pump too fast, I made up the blood pressure reading and told the “patient” that she was healthy. Even though my patient told me she had a cough and a fever, I for some reason told her to exercise daily. I try to stick to the easy phrases.

After my exam I hopped on bus with a few other friends and arrived in Puerto Viejo just in time for dinner. Our hostel, called “Rocking J’s” had already started the party at 6PM. Rocking J’s is essentially ocean side property speckled with mosaic art, hammocks and tents available for rent. It was so neat!

On Saturday morning we explored the town and discovered a small soda off the beaten path of town and had delicious iced coffee and food! It was such a great way to start the day.

Since the beach at Rocking J’s isn’t good for swimming or lounging, we rented bikes for $5 and road them about 30 minutes south of Puerto Viejo to a beach called Punta Uva. We spent the day lounging, playing in the waves and exploring the gorgeous beach.

Saturday night we sat and listened to the bumping club and salsa music from the beach, sitting at a bomb fire, facing the sea. On our way back to Rocking J’s we got some kabobs from a street vender- nothing tasted so good while strolling with a few great friends (and stray dogs) in a small paradise town.

When we arrived back at Rocking J’s we stopped by another bomb fire surrounded by party animals that were sipping on Imperial, beating on drums and singing/chanting verses of various songs in Spanish.  

Sunday was another beautiful day complete with another breakfast and Iced coffee from the same soda, sunshine and swimming at beach closer to Rocking J’s. Since we didn’t have class on Monday morning, a few of us decided to stay in Puerto Viejo another night. I rented a hammock for $7 and slept like a baby!

We swam out to this little island off the coast!

            As you may have experienced, not every adventure goes completely smoothly. With these next few stories I ask that you don’t pity me, as it will only cause me to freak out more than I already have. Mom, this is where you say in a rather harsh voice (maybe smirking or chuckling a little) “I think you’ll live”.

I was delighted to share a chicken finger and quesadilla dinner with Jonathon on Sunday evening. With my first bite of the quesadilla, my chewing was interrupted by hard object. I tried very hard to retain poise and composure as I spit my food into a napkin. I tried even harder to remain cool, calm and collective as I found a shard of glass in my half chewed food. It took a few minutes for me to realize the severity of the situation, but only a few moments for me to wonder if we’d get our meal for free. With understanding, we mentioned our discovery to the waitress and left the restaurant without charges. Oh how thrilling it is to have a terrifying experience with a joyful outcome!

Even though we had just come out on top of the budget, we found our experience to be reason to continue spending money on food and drink. For the rest of the night we hopped to different restaurants and bars, each with a different environment. It was it was a great way to explore the town, especially since very few people were out on a Sunday night.

On Monday morning I woke up feeling irritation on my stomach. I found a warm, red, and blistering rash surrounding my belly button. It was hard to ignore as it was painful with contact of clothing. The blisters continued to grow through out my day of traveling. When I returned home I showed Vanessa my rash “AH! Que feo!” (How ugly!). She had Tyrone take me to the pharmacy around the corner.

Tyrone spoke to the woman behind the counter, explaining the situation. The woman behind the counter asked to see my rash so I stood at the counter in the public pharmacy, exposing my hideous rash. With an inquisitive look she asked me a few questions that I barely understood and then asked her co-workers to come look. I was the gringo girl dressed in pajamas, in the middle of the pharmacy showing all workers and customers my infectious rash. They could not find a diagnosis, but Tyrone still bought me an Allegra pill, just for kicks.

When I returned from the pharmacy Vanessa was still concerned. I began searching google for an answer, which was a mistake. I laid on my bed trying not to think of death as Jocelyn sat at my desk and kept me sane, telling me that I was alright. After dinner Vanessa took me to another pharmacy across town. There I stood again, in the middle of a pharmacy surrounded by curious Tico’s staring at my rash. Vanessa and the woman behind the counter conversed for a few moments in Spanish and then suddenly the woman turned to me and spoke in English “We believe that maybe a cockroach has pissed on you”. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to crawl in a hole or burst out laughing. She didn’t know for sure, but she advised me to the Clinic immediately.

At this point in time it was 8PM; I was tired but still had enough energy to internally freak out. Vanessa explained that ISA (my program I’m studying abroad with) would not cover the clinic bill. She was already on her cell phone, calling her neighbor who is a doctor.

We arrived back home and immediately went next door. An older woman (overweight with fake penciled eyebrows) greeted us at the door. She looked at my rash the same way every one else had; a little curious yet disgusted. I stood in her foyer, trying not to cry or whine as she cleaned my rash with rubbing alcohol. With a syringe she popped my blisters. I felt like I should have been air lifted back to the US- it hurt so badly! She applied cream, covered my stomach with gauze and then wrapped my torso with a compression bandage. She wrote me a prescription for 4 different medications and then Vanessa took me back to the pharmacy. I have no idea why I would ever need 4 medications for any type of health condition.

I tried telling Vanessa that I wanted to wait a day before purchasing medication, but she wouldn’t have it. Fourteen dollars later (I only got two of the prescriptions), I stood in my room applying cream to my burning rash. Vanessa came into my room, had me lift up my arms, stripped my shirt, grabbed a clean t-shirt from my shelf and redressed me. I stood motionless; glad to have the assistance since I felt pain with every move. My motions resembled those of pregnant woman in her third trimester. I was clearly miserable and tired; Vanessa (however helpful) still managed to poke fun at my condition by making a few pregnancy jokes.

This morning the rash looked a little better, but still hurt. When I went around the house looking for rubbing alcohol to pop my blisters again, Vanessa took over. She sterilized a sewing needle and had me stand in the kitchen as she poked my stomach. I had wanted to do it by myself in case I felt like crying, alas nothing can beat this Tico Mom’s determination to help. She placed a panty liner over my rash and then re-wrapped my torso with the compression bandage. It was unnecessary, but more comfortable than nothing.

When I arrived at my Alternative Health class this afternoon, the other students in my class were curious about my time in Puerto Viejo since we are taking a field trip there in November. I couldn’t help but share my concerning rash story. That was clearly a mistake since my teacher, Roberto, is constantly looking to help out other people. “Show me your rash” (the class then chimed in) “Yeah, we want to see it!” Peer pressure always gets me. The panty liner alone (stuck to the wet ointment on my skin) was enough of a show.

After class I went with Roberto down to his office. I laid on his acupuncture bed as he examined my rash with a light and a magnifying glass. He cleaned it, covered it with another type of ointment and then began making a mixture. He gave me a little bottle full of natural ingredients that will help relieve pain and itching. Roberto’s diagnosis; a bite from a sea creature or spider… “But I not sho-ur, theese is strange”.

So, it seems to be getting better. In the past 24 hours of seeing multiple health professionals and taking 4 different types of medicine, I still have no diagnosis. I’m just glad that I’m being taken care of. There is definitely no lack of concern for little gringo girls with rashes, here in Costa Rica.

On a side note, don’t ask me why I can’t stop listening to corny bachata songs by Prince Royce- a very popular artist here in Costa Rica. His songs are always playing at the dance clubs- maybe they remind me of good times?. Click here to listen to Prince Royce.

#5 Que falta

Okay, I’ll admit it… I’m a tiny bit homesick. There are just a few things lately that have been a little challenging- but it is good for me, I’m realizing what I have taken for granted.

• Space: Here, at my host families house we are not allowed to have friends in our bedroom or over past 10PM. There is small living room at the front of the house and a large kitchen in the back of the house; neither place is conducive for fellowship after dinner each evening. Even if friends were to come over, we’d have to speak in Spanish.

•  Easy Communication: The lack of a cell phone & slow Internet is helping me gain patience.

• Healthy food: I’ll be chubby for Christmas.

• The Sun: It’s the rainy season.

• Fall: Apple cider, football games and a reason to wear a scarf.

• Ability to express myself efficiently: I’m bad at Spanish.

This past weekend I traveled with my program to Monteverde, a cloud forest about 3 hours north of San Jose. We traveled by bus about 4,662 ft. above sea level. The cliff-like edges next to the narrow, wet, dirt (mud) roads were very thrilling! The rain began as we left San Jose on Friday afternoon, and didn’t stop until we returned on Sunday evening.

Although we could only see very little of Monteverde, it was a very relaxing and fun time. The fog/clouds and rain made everything a little bit more mysterious and cozy- which was fine since many students have been exhausted and sick with colds.

                                    Jocelyn demonstrating the main activity of the weekend.

I love mountains and the aura surrounding them. Our hotel definitely was fitting; cozy, a little rustic and sophisticated at the same time. Since all three meals were included on this trip, many of us spent the weekend eating and sleeping in the comfy beds.

On Saturday the majority of students went Zip-lining! I didn’t take my camera zip lining; not only because I’m accident prone, but also because it was foggy and raining. The rain didn’t hinder the thrill of zip lining, however we did miss out on seeing some incredible views. Click here to see what was behind the fog (Mom, you might get vertigo).

After touring 11 different Zip Lines, we had the option of doing the “Tarzan Swing”- jumping from a large plank suspended in the air… kind of similar to bungee jumping! It was so fun! Click here to see what I’m talking about.

On Saturday night a bunch of students went dancing at a club in Monteverde- Imperial and Salsa Dancing always makes for a great night! Which reminds me, Click here and watch this (I’m famous).

Since this past Monday was a cultural holiday in Costa Rica, many stores, companies and schools had the day off.  Some friends and I took the bus to a mall to look around and pick up a few necessities. I was looking for some sweaters and long sleeve shirts- it isn’t too bad here (it’s usually in the 70’s) but since we’re always getting wet from the rain it seems colder.

A few nights ago Tyrone had terrible heartburn and had to go to the Emergency room in the middle of the night. Later that day when I returned from class I was feeling concerned. I went straight into the kitchen with a bit of urgency and asked Vanessa “Es Tyrone mujer?” She shook her head smiling, looking me in the eye with wide eyes, waiting for me to say something else. With some more verbal and non-verbal communication I realized I had mistaken the word “Mejor” (Better), for the very similar word, “Mujer” (Woman).

So, Tyrone is not a woman, but he is better.

After my final Spanish exam on Friday (yikes!) I’m heading to Puerto Viejo (located on the south east coast of Costa Rica) with some friends. We’re staying in a hostel with all sorts of hammocks and tents – only $8 a night! Do us a favor and pray that we don’t get dengue fever, as it has been very prevalent on the Caribbean coast in the past few months. Thanks! Chao!

#4 Coffee & Lava

If only I had designated time for sharing my experiences with you daily! It has been another fantastic week for me!

Last week seems as though it was last month! My Tica Mom (Vanessa) returned from New Jersey last Thursday night. The family was anxiously awaiting her arrival. When I walked out of my room for dinner the scent of Tyrone’s cologne filled the hallway; he wore a huge grin as he fixed his collar and tugged on his sleeves.

Vanessa is wonderful! I can now see why she was so missed by the family. She cooks delicious meals, cleans and talks. Her mouth moves a mile per minute and she is always displaying so much emotion.  Jocelyn and I have realized that we need to look at her while she is talking in order for us to understand what she is saying. She calls Tyrone “Mi Amor” (My love) and her friends and daughters “Mami.”

Another thing that is especially great about Vanessa is that she offers me coffee each morning. When Jocelyn and I first arrived here we filled out a food/meal preference sheet that communicated our likes and dislikes. For example, Jocelyn likes milk or juice in the morning and I like coffee.

At home, I usually enjoy about 2 cups of coffee- but that is if my dad doesn’t cob the rest of the pot before I can. This is just one similarity between the two father figures currently in my life. Tyrone offered me coffee on two different occasions (which I distinctly remember). On the other mornings Tyrone would offer Jocelyn her drink of choice, serve her, turn to me- pause for a second- and then ask me how I slept or if I was going dancing later that night. While I would answer his questions I watched him walk over to the coffee pot, pour himself another cup and the remaining in his to-go canister.

I tried to plan around this problem but did not succeed; there are no coffee stores on my way to school and the school cafeteria doesn’t open until after classes begin. Although the mornings with out coffee were difficult, they helped me realize that I have an unfortunate dependence. I guess the first step is admitting I have a problem.

One difference between my Dad and Tyrone is their ability to sing. Luckily my Dad has never looked into my eyes and began singing a Christian praise song. Even on the first day of being here Tyrone cranked his favorite praise song on his kitchen stereo and stood proudly, singing for us.

In order to show appropriate respect one must first contain the immense urge to laugh. I usually try to lose eye contact with both Tyrone and Jocelyn and stare at my food instead. Sometimes I nod my head as if I understand the message of the song. After singing a few verses Tyrone looks at us smiling, and then elaborates on what the song means to him. He gets serious and says something like “The spirit can always be with us whenever we are said or have a hard day at work.” Since I struggle with conversational Spanish alone, I like to avoid deep topics. Earlier this week after being sung to, I was feeling particularly on the edge of laughing. I chose a path of digression by I asking about a random word in the song “Que Significa?” Tyrone explained with a few more words, hand motions and lastly, of course, by singing me the verse again, looking me in the eye and smiling.

I’m sure you’ll be surprised to hear that I’ve become the butt of Tyrone’s jokes. I can’t say I don’t enjoy it- almost every day he has me bent over laughing. He’ll ask Jocelyn if she likes the food we are eating and then he’ll just look at me and laugh because he doesn’t have to ask me if I like the food because I eat all of it. When I came home soaking wet because I forgot my umbrella he chuckled and sat imitating my look by matting his hair down with his hands. When I say something wrong in Spanish he’ll raise his voice and say “Qu-wahhaatt?!” and if I tell him I don’t have homework he shakes his head laughing and says something like “Yeahhh right, you need to go practice your Spanish”.

Yesterday I began feeling a little sick with a sore throat and fever. When Vanessa told Tyrone that I wasn’t feeling well he looked at me, laughed and said, “That’s because she’s been singing so much! (Turns to me) Bree-heet! No more singing!”

I sort of expected to get sick since I have not been getting enough sleep or taking care of myself. There is no time for sleeping here! There is too much fun to be had!

This past weekend the program traveled to Volcano Arenal, which is located just north of San Jose in Costa Rica’s Northern Lowlands. A town right next to the Volcano was named “La Fotuna” for its luck; the lava of Arenal (about 3 miles away) flows away from the town.

            I must admit that I had underestimated the potential beauty and experience this trip had to offer; I now stand corrected! We stayed in a beautiful hotel called “Los Lagos”, located right next to Arenal. Complete with hot springs, waterslides, hiking trails, beautiful plants & gardens and a constant view of the Volcano.

Canyoning, horseback riding and biking tours were some activities offered for an extra fee. Many students decided to hike around the resort and relax in the hot springs instead.

            Some friends and I were lucky to snap cloudless pictures of the volcano after hiking to a look out on Saturday morning. We were sweating within minutes of hiking- I personally was drenched, which made for some serious dehydration problems later that evening in the hot springs.

            We went to a Soda (a small, cheap and usually delicious restaurant) in La Fortuna for lunch. This was where I received the most delicious chicken fajitas and fresh fruit juice.            For the rest of the day many of us relaxed in or by the many pools at the Hotel. After dinner the relaxing continued near the hot bar- the bar in the pool that is surrounded by giant hot tub.

             On Sunday we went to Catarata Fortuna. The strenuous 15-20 minute hike down the mountainside was rewarded with the site of a beautiful waterfall and basin. We spent about hour swimming in the basin, trying to keep our balance on the surrounding slippery rocks and exploring the separate run off area. The water was very difficult to swim in as there were currents coming from each way. The water was also surprisingly cold- similar in temperature (and color) to lake Michigan in the early summer.

            Aside from the persistent urge to watch Lord of the Rings and/or erupting volcano video’s on YouTube, the entire weekend was fantastic! I had never experienced anything remotely similar…  maybe you can relate; you’re relaxing in a hot spring until suddenly you’re struck with a bit of panic- you look past the exotic plants and gardens to scan a massive Volcano for orange lava.

There is something to be said about the contentedness in this lifestyle. It is necessary to let go of control and just let fate and flexibility take over. Earthquakes and Volcanos; two potentially disastrous forces of mother nature that are prevalent in Costa Rica and both come with out warning. Even if one wanted to plan ahead the clocks all read different times and schedules are either hard to come by or inaccurate. Here, in Costa Rica, it is the current moment that is most important. If a teacher is 10 minutes late for class, it is probably because they ran into a friend while on their way and so they stayed to chat for a bit. Whoever thought that being on time should be more important than personal relationships? Finally, I don’t feel so bad about being tardy all those years in middle school and high school… and now, in college.

For those of you who think I’m here just goofin’ around (Dad), I can assure you that I’m working hard in school! Spanish class is particularly challenging! Right now I’m learning about Acupuncture, natural medicine and leadership. Last week my Spanish class took the bus into central San Jose to look at and purchase different herbs that are beneficial for health. We were each assigned a particular herb or remedy and then had presentations last week. I did at presentation on “Una de Gato” (translates as “Cat’s Claw”) its a wood-like vine that grows in Peru. It is extremely beneficial for many health problems (insert long list).

This is my Spanish Health Class- My professor is the cute little lady sitting at the head of the table.

In my leadership class this past Monday we watched a movie on Shackleton’s adventure to Antarctica. I highly recommend watching this video (or any others) about the story!

Click here to watch Shackleton’s Antarctic Adventure.

In other news Jocelyn and I came home Sunday night to find matching Winnie the Pooh blankets on our beds. Pura Vida!

#3 Fantastic people & Tamarindo

I’ve always been a fan of fellowship, of course, however I’ve just begun to appreciate the concept of community. I really hate to sound corny, but I’m positive it’s true; you can be happy anywhere in the world as long as you are with people you appreciate, respect and love.

I suppose my situation isn’t exactly the perfect anecdote for my point- I’m in a very desirable place. More importantly, incredible people surround me.

The community at school and with in the ISA program is so comfortable and welcoming! The students who are studying abroad at Veritas University have been so out going, friendly, caring and open-minded. I’ve never made friends this easily or this fast. During class they share their thoughts, make conversation and seem like friends right after meeting them. During breaks or after classes, visiting, making plans and eating is always possible.

My friend Kenya is one of the coolest girls I know. She has mad style, she’s smart, beautiful, fluent in Spanish, hilarious, has the greatest laugh, friendly & easy to talk to- She can also give a mean back massage! Her disability doesn’t stop her from doing anything; she came to Costa Rica in a wheel chair and has made every minute count. I’m so blessed to have Kenya as a friend because she is always demonstrating patience, care and positivity.

Another expert at being positive is my Alternative Health Approaches professor.  Each time I pass my Alternative Health professor in the hall he stops and greets me with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Last week during class he explained he was a bit unorganized for class because after working on the computer for three hours, it crashed and all of his work was lost. The class reacted with sympathy and he responded, “That’s okay, I’ll do it better next time”. During another class period we were watching a movie that had drumming as background music. When loud banging noise from the construction in room below resonated through out our classroom, my professor laughed and celebrated because we then had even more background music! He is professional at being happy and his positivity is so prevalent and contagious.

While the community surrounding me at school is extraordinary, my experience here thus far is as well. I’ve had a fantastic time!

I started my weekend Thursday by attending dance class and then adventuring into downtown San Jose with a group of friends. Our short taxi ride was an adventure in itself; we were speeding down busy streets, passing prostitutes & stray dogs in heat. If that wasn’t enough, our taxi driver honking at people and other cars while busting the most demonic and terrifying cackle. After arriving at our destination, a dance club called “Castro’s”, we proceeded to Salsa, merengue and freestyle dance until early hours of the morning.

On Friday we left for Playa Tamarindo, which is in Northwestern region of Costa Rica called Guanacaste. A six-hour bus ride from San Jose was rather nice for those of us who had been out dancing and socializing all week. When we arrived in Tamarindo it was pouring rain, but that didn’t stop us from partaking in another night of dancing.

When we arrived to the club we barely had time to stress over the flight of stairs- within seconds of arriving, our friend Jon and a few of the local guys carried Kenya up to the club. We spent the night sweating through our clothes, drinking Imperial beer and dancing with one particular Costa Rican girl who seemed to befriend our entire posse by sharing dance moves, cheering drinks and smiling.  Non-verbal communication is crucial when the club music is bumpin’!

The next morning we woke up over looking the Pacific Ocean. The volcanic ash in the sand at Playa Tamarindo made the view especially unique. Many of us spent the morning on the beach exploring and swimming in the water. Around 1PM we boarded a large catamaran, complete with booths, deck seating, an open bar and music!

The boat took us to another part of the coast about 45 minutes from Tararmindo. The cliffs, secluded areas of land and wildlife were amazing! We parked near land and spent some time swimming in the clear water and jumping off the deck of the boat into the water. When I was swimming I felt tingling on my back, leg and arm. As soon as I heard a girl swimming next to me say that she had been stung by something, I realized I had been too. When I got out of the water I felt the painful, stinging and itchy feeling all over my back. I’ve never felt anything like it! The boat captain thought it was Jellyfish, but later after the pain and redness had gone away we heard hearsay of small plant like species that release stingers (?).

With time (and beer), I (and the few others who were stung) began to feel better. The crew fed us dinner and then we headed back to Tamarindo to see the sunset. On our way back we saw dolphin, a humpback whale, (which looked like a mountain forming in the water) and two large turtles mating!! The overcast skies hid the sunset, but the boat trip was still a great time.

Some of the group finished off the day with another round of Salsa dancing at a bar down from our hotel. Even though the bar and dance floor lacked walls and doors, the place reeked of Marijuana.

Sunday morning many students attended a Mangrove tour down the road from our Hotel. On the tour they saw lots of wildlife and plants. Since I anticipated sleeping later than the tour I didn’t plan on attending. Instead my friend Jon and I rented surfboards for $10 each. When the crazy surf guy asked us what size board we need we were dumbfounded. He responded “So you guys just wanna go out there and @#%& around!?” – all of the sudden we felt a little uneasy. He gave us boards, surf shirts and then began walking us to the water explaining that he’d go out and teach us if we gave him a tip later on.

“Follow me mami, you let me carry the board for you”- this guy was hilarious. As soon as he stepped into the water his mouth never stopped moving. “Common baby! You takin’ too long! I’m ready to show you the surf!”—“Let’s go baby cakes get on the board!”- I had about 5 different nicknames from him. I think he was a mix between  Adam Sandler’s friend in the movie Fifty Firsts Dates and Sanka from Cool Runnings. His balding head of dread locks cracked me up. When a big wave came his way he would curse -“Holy *#$@”, open his eyes really wide, fill his cheeks up with air, plug his nose and bob into water. Other times he’d yell at us “You better hang on to your damn board!” We laughed so hard.

He’d yell, “What are you doing! Hurry, get on your board!” I’d get up as fast as I could and my bathing suit bottoms would slide down. After re-nicknaming me “Underwear problems” he began to adjust my arms, feet position AND pull up my “Underwear” for me – “You better be careful with your underwear here! My waves here take whatever they want!”

When a good wave came he would either push me forward at the right timing or tell me when to paddle and when to stand up. Jon and I did surprising well (as far as we’re concerned!)- There were only a few waves that we didn’t catch. Our loco instructor never stopped yelling tips “Stay low!” & “Bend your knees!”, but we thought we looked and did great!

After about an hour I was beginning to feel tired and as if I was getting skin cancer. When I returned to the surf after dragging my body and my board the instructor yelled “Hey action lady I’ve been waiting for you for two days!”

We had so much fun surfing, and really didn’t end up spending too much money. Even though we were broke at the end of the trip, I felt it was all worth it!

We arrived back into San Jose yesterday evening. Jocelyn and I returned back home to find Tyrone very sad. He sat us at the kitchen table and began to tell us why our host mom had still not returned from New Jersey.

With tears in his eyes he explained that her ankle had become swollen and the Dr. advised her not to fly. Jocelyn and I didn’t know what to say- it was so hard to see him so upset. He misses her so much!

This man with his job and three daughters who are in school and working have been working so hard to keep the house clean and the meals cooked for Jocelyn and I. We know how much Venessa (our Tica Mom) means to Tyrone; he is the only elderly man that I have heard openly expressed his love for his wife. He’ll sit with Jocelyn and I at the table and say things like “I can’t wait for you to meet my wife” – “She is so beautiful and such a good person”. His appreciation and love for his family is always prevalent and I feel so special to witness it and to have become apart of it.

#2 Thus far

Wow! I’ve never felt so comfortable being away from home.

This week has been very busy but I have enjoyed every minute. My classes are already and will continue to be extremely beneficial and interesting. My professors are incredible people- I can’t wait to spend more time with them. The first week of classes in the States is commonly known as “syllabus week”- go to class, get the important dates and details, do nothing etc. Here at this school in Costa Rica, very few classes receive syllabi, the obvious is implied, and dates and projects are to be determined. In many ways school seems less stressful and more relaxing; there is organization and order, but roads are only crossed when we get to them.

Even after a few class periods, I feel more care, respect and trust from each of my professors. I know them better than I knew any of my past professors after a semester.

My professors have so much passion for teaching, and to me they seem more like either friends or caretakers (this might because the classes are small- my smallest class being 8 students and my largest being 15).

I’m taking four classes; Spanish for Health Professionals (4 hours every day), Intercultural Communications, Creative Leadership and Alternative Health Approaches.

I already have a crush on my Intercultural communications professor who is most definitely one of the funniest people I know, as well as the most cultured. He has a

-I just felt a small earthquake. woah!

scruffy beard; a hairstyle similar to a mullet (but not really that much of a party in the back), wears thick black glasses and might be shorter than me (unfortunate).

During orientation he did presentation for the international students. He explained many different behaviors in Costa Rica- such as communicating with car horns- (beep beep) “You look good in pink” (beep beep)”the light is about to turn green, so get ready”.

I also have a soft spot for my professor of my Alternative Health Approaches class. I am especially excited for this class since I have been considering holistic health as area of focus within health communications. My professor is teaching because he loves his profession and God told him to turn his knowledge into actions. During our first class we learned a breathing exercise for replenishing and refreshing the body. After class he pulled me aside and took my hand. He began to rub my wrist and then started to crack some knuckles, pull my arm (literally ha-ha-ha) and slowly worked his way up to my neck and spine. After about 15 seconds he had done his magic! He told me that during class he could see that my “spine wanted to get out” by the way I was siting and trying to be comfortable. He gave me a hug and began explaining his willingness to help and care for others “I help when I see need”- while two of my friends stood next to me, he began to elaborate on the importance of faith and listening to God. After fifteen minutes his enthusiasm was contagious- he was filled with joy because we had stayed after class and listened to him. He grabbed our hands and started to pray, thanking God for bringing us into his life. About 5 minutes after hugging him goodbye he ran into us again and insisted on showing us his office which is complete with a bed for acupuncture, concentrated herbs, decorative fabrics, Inspirational and biblical quotes, medicine cabinet and autonomic nerve system paraphernalia. “If you have hurt or need my practice, come to here and I will listen to God and help you”.  Today when some friends and I saw him in passing he stopped to give us all a kiss on the cheek (a really wonderful and normal way to greet others here, however may be perceived as creepy in the United States).

Other than embracing my fantastic environment at school, I’ve been spending time with my new family and friends. I’ve been meeting people from Brazil, Holland, Morocco, and Malawi and all parts of the USA. It has been so easy to make friends here; everyone is very respectable, open minded and out going. Every Tuesday and Thursday night our school provides free dance classes! Last night we learned a bit of Salsa and merengue- it was so much fun! I’ll be practicing with every opportunity! After dancing we went out to a neighborhood bar and tried Costa Rican’s “Imperial” beer, which I find similar to what you may know as “Bud Light”. Tonight we’re going out again for a special: $4 for 3 beers… and tomorrow hopefully the disco techo and/or Salsa night at some dances clubs.

As for my home life- everything is still wonderful. My tico dad (Tyrone) is so great and caring. Each morning and evening he prepares us dinner and then sits with us (doesn’t eat) and tries to understand our Spanish. According to Tyrone, every piece of food that is fed to us is “MUY (said with a huge smirk and/or smile, arms up and far apart) differente y mas rico en Costa Rica” – VERY different and more rich than in the United States.

I had another mishap the other day at breakfast. Tyrone asked me what my favorite fruits were. I responded “Mangos and Pene” which translates as “Mangos and Penis”. I meant “Pina” which is pineapple. Another gut busted by Tyrone and red face on me.

Last night before Jocelyn and I went out he told us he would leave the light on for us, but we had to make sure to turn it off. We returned home to find a small nightlight on in the hallway, illuminating about 5 sq. inches of our twenty-foot hallway. What a guy!

Estoy aqui! #1

Hola! It is so exciting to finally be in Costa Rica! My experience so far has been fantastic. Although I haven’t been here very long, I am already falling in love with the people, culture and food of Costa Rica.

After a long day of traveling alone I was happy to make friends with an older man from Mexico who was going to visit his lady in Costa Rica. He was kind enough to tap my shoulder and point out different things on his map- “Theees es the Po-si-fic os-sean”- I had a great time pretending like I had just learned crucial information. He was very sweet to me and helped me practice some Spanish.

I live with a mom, dad and three sisters who are all very nice! I also have a roommate named Jocelyn who happens to go to Grand Valley as well. Oh! And Tito, a little doggy!

There are many rules for this house that will be challenging; no speaking English, no friends are allowed in my bedroom or at the house past 10PM, doors must be kept closed, rooms must be kept spotless… and no alcoholic beverages…

I’ve already learned so many new words since my host dad, Tyrone, is gung-ho on us only communicating in Spanish. Luckily everyone is very patient and helpful with my butchered Spanish. Tyrone and I had a good laugh this morning at breakfast when I told him I was “excitida” (excited: one word that I thought I could say with confidence)- he explained that this word is used to describe a couple in the bedroom. While cracking up he strongly suggested that I used “emocionada”.

At orientation today many of us students left feeling uneasy after hearing unfortunate stories of past students; robberies, sickness, probation, harassment, earthquakes, assaults and arrest. I feel pretty safe so far – the ISA program is very accommodating and helpful, and Tyrone has made it clear that he now has 5 daughters, instead of just three–“Mi familia es su familia”.

For lunch today Jocelyn and I met up with our new friends John, Fatima, Ima, Seth and Chad who are all ISA students living in our neighborhood. Very few restaurants and stores were open today, as the official religion of the country is Catholic and today (Sunday) is the day of rest. We walked all around our neighborhood and found a small outdoor mall with a nice open food court. While standing in line for food a worker had us try his juices and his rice & beans, then he gave us free maps of Costa Rica. So friendly! I hope to become a regular customer by the end of the semester.

After lunch we walked around some more and then relaxed at a park table and discussed the different beaches we can visit in the next few months. When it started to rain we were reluctant to return to our houses. Although many of the Tico families are very friendly and welcoming, I think many of us are having a hard time being alone. Many of the houses are very small, with very little room for fellowship and relaxing outside of personal quarters. My host family is very close, however it is very quiet here, and most everyone stays in their bedrooms. It is hard to come to an empty and unfamiliar room at the end of an overwhelming day of meeting new friends.

Dinner tonight was rather successful! Jocelyn and I were able to maintain a nice conversation with Tyrone, who is beginning to find us very funny. Since our Tica mom is currently in the USA, we have yet to meet her. Tyrone has been taking good care of us; helping us with Spanish, cooking and walking us to the school. Picture a short & stout Costa Rican man wearing a floral apron and flashing a toothy grin as you walk into the kitchen- it’s great!!!

The rich coast