I realized this evening that a mere two months from tonight, I'll be packing and repacking (and panicking that I'm forgetting something) and sneaking in extra hugs with the kids! I am sure a sleepless night will follow - I can never sleep the night before a big event, just too excited, usually. And this trip definitely qualifies as a "big event"!
I received my itinerary, complete with suggested packing list and safety information. Did you know that Costa Rica boasts 135 species of snakes? However, only 17 are known to be venomous! I am mostly putting these facts in for my mom, she has an unusually intense fear of snakes. At any rate, I stocked up on bug spray, sunscreen and aloe today before it all disappears from the store shelves in Indiana. Couldn't find any snake repellent, though :-) Sorry, Mom.
The trip starts with our group meeting up in San Antonio, Texas (love that town!!!), then flying into San Jose, CR for a day or so. We'll visit the US Embassy, visit an archeological site and learn about education in CR. We then head to Guacimo to Earth University to study sustainable agriculture, visit a rural school and do home stays on local farms. After that, we will be in La Selva, Sarapiqui (rainforest!) to learn about biodiversity, native plants and invasive species, and, best of all, the itinerary reads "Cacao and Chocolate". The food scientist in me is doing cartwheels! After the rainforest, we head to La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano) where we will discuss ecotourism, volcanic activity and the geologic history of the region. The last leg of our trip takes us back to San Jose for debriefing. I can't even think that far ahead at this point; I am just too overwhelmed with all the wonderful experiences I am going to have. Have I mentioned that I am excited? And lucky? And grateful?
Off to get ready for a new week. My Sunday nights are always packed full of "What do I need to grade?"(answer: everything) "Which nights are we busy this week?" (answer: all of them) and "Gee, why can't this be a 3 day weekend?" (no good answer to that one)
PS...High five to my handy husband for fixing the hot water heater Saturday. And for checking the coolant on my car. And for taking Ben to breakfast this morning, allowing me to sleep in until, gasp, 9:00 am!!!!
