Today was a travel day. We left Horizontes at 4 a.m., loaded the vans, and took the short drive to the Costa Rica airport where we said goodbye to Eddie and Felix. I must express here that Eddie and Felix were so much more than drivers. To the kids they were friends and entertainers; they played upbeat music in the vans, helped them practice their Spanish and pointed out interesting sites during our drives. Eddie carried his machete around, and on the last day cut down several coconuts and mangoes so the kids could enjoy these fruits the way they were meant to be eaten. They played soccer, joked around, posed for pictures, and joined us for meals. They really helped to create a fun atmosphere.
To us as chaperones, Eddie, Felix, along with James, our Seeds of Change liaison, Pablo, our host at Finca la Anita, and many others, they were the 100% reliable safety net that kept us and the students safe and secure at every moment. They translated Spanish. They knew where it was safe to walk, drive, and swim. They strung up ropes and guided us through stream crossings and on muddy hills. When they felt a condition or activity was not safe, they said so and we followed their leads. They were lifeguards at the ocean. They allowed us to get in and experience this country in a way far beyond what a tourist would have access to, but did it in a way that kept our safety and security at the forefront of their concerns. We are forever grateful for this skillful leadership.
We flew from Costa Rica to Atlanta where we had a very quick time through customs and security and a long layover where everyone had plenty of time for meals, catching up on social media and texting home, and just enjoying each others' company for a few last hours. Our flight home and arrival were uneventful, and then we were all greeted by our families in Minneapolis. As I write this I'm sure the kids are enjoying sleeping in, or beginning to unravel their favorite stories and memories, getting caught up on life back at home, passing out gifts, and enjoying hot showers and dry clothes.
As chaperones, I must tell you what a joy and honor it was to travel with your children. They were funny, flexible, adventurous, and curious. They were polite and kind to our hosts. They practiced their Spanish. They took advantage of this tremendous opportunity to learn and experience. I saw picky eaters try new foods, shy people open up and make new friends, and everyone learn to tolerate the biggest bugs we'd ever seen. Even at their most tired, wet, or hungry, they persevered, embraced the fun, and as became their theme... they "thrived."
We had a great experience with this group, and we are very proud of their accomplishments. We hope you're enjoying hearing their best stories, and eating some high quality chocolate.
Pura vida...Not for school but for life...
Sincerely, Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Jaworski
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