Hmmm.....well, let's see. What's been happening lately?
A few weeks ago I was visited by my dear Lexie. She stayed for a week and a half and we did all sorts of fun things. It was soooo great to have Lexie around! The semester before I did the CASP program, Lexie studied in Brazil. Being here together allowed us to spend more time hearing about each other's study abroad experiences, and we've officially decided that our next overseas trip needs to be to Brazil, so I can see where she studied. I was also thoroughly impressed by her Portuñol (Portuguese - Spanish). So fun being with her, and I can't wait for our adventures to continue this fall, in good ol' WA state!
At the same time we received a group of 15 Wheaton College students who are doing a summer program here, so that first week was kind of crazy with plunges, orientation, etc. The past two semesters we've had a couple of students from Wheaton, and had a great time with them. Now it has been a blast getting to be with a group entirely from Wheaton, and to hear about their college experiences and do CR things with them.
A few days after Lex arrived, my freshmen year RA, Janae, came for a visit as well! (She and Bean are besties). It was great fun to have so many visitors at once - we were able to go out and make a decent group of people! While they were here visiting, we spent a lot of time hanging out with one of our closest families of friends. (What do you get when you hang out with a Tica, a Mexican, and a guy from Holland?). Sleepovers, Twilight parties, and celebration/birthday dinners made for great times had by all.
Last week the other TA TA TAs and I had to make a quick trip to Panamá. Let me just say that it was marvelous. I love getting to just pretend like I'm a backpacker, meet nice people in hostels, go snorkeling (highlight!) and enjoy the tropics. We didn't have time to go very far into the country, or to visit the canal, but we had a great time and now have recommendations to pass along to future students wanting to make the trip. Did I mention that snorkeling is my favorite thing?
This week we've had a few members of the Whitworth music department on campus, planning for a 2012 Spring break tour. Also, our summer intern (one of our J Term students) showed up a few days ago, and it's like having an old friend return! We're working hard to get everything done and wrapped up for the year, as well as prepping for a group of faculty coming down this weekend for a Faculty Workshop we're hosting. Let's hope I can get my life organized and everything ready to go!
Oh, and did I mention I move back to the States in two weeks?
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Friday, May 20, 2011
A blog game
I know, it's been awhile. We're going to play a quick game of catch up in which I list off a bunch of things that have happened in the last month and a half, and you read the list. (Okay, I'm sorry that this game isn't more interactive).
Some things Emily has done in the last month and a half:
1. Planned and led the second ecology trip to the Pacific coast. During our time in Tárcoles (an artisan fishing community) I got to stay with my same host family from last semester - so fun!
2. We discovered 2 for 1 cocktails night at Chic Corner Bar (aka the Chill Out Place). This was a great way to hang out with our students off campus every week, as well as a good way to go out on a budget!
3. We hosted a "She's the Man/He's the Woman" dress up movie night in which we watched one of my faves, She's the Man. (Thank you Amanda Bynes for being so ridiculous).
4. Watched the Justin Bieber Movie 3 times, twice in 3D (pronounced "tres d"). It's true, Bean has a real obsession forming.
5. Sadly, we said goodbye to our semester students and the Holsinger Yoder family. It is always so sad to say goodbye to people who you come to know and love and share amazing experiences with. My hope is that I'll spend lots of time hanging out with you wonderful people this summer/fall in Spokane!! (Also, we look forward to spending time with our summer interns!).
6. Costa Rica had a 6.0 earthquake that was actually a little scary. I was forced to hop/fall out of my bedroom window in an effort to get outside quickly.
7. The TA TA TAs took a little backpacking trip to the Guanacaste region, visiting some amazing beaches, one of which is supposed to be in the top five most beautiful beaches of CR - Playa Conchal. All of the hype about it is correct - super beautiful!
8. I finally read Gulliver's Travels. This has been on the list since we ended up not reading it in AP English my junior year of high school. It's true, the advertising for the movie reminded me that I still hadn't read it, so I took it off my shelf and went for it. I love the feeling of reading a classic!
Other things Emily wanted to mention but that don't fit into the previous game category:
1. I move home in a month and I can't even believe it.
2. My dearest Lexie is getting in tonight for a visit! I can't wait to spend time with her and other friends who are coming to visit in the next few weeks!
3. I'll try to post some pictures soon to help with all the catch up!
Some things Emily has done in the last month and a half:
1. Planned and led the second ecology trip to the Pacific coast. During our time in Tárcoles (an artisan fishing community) I got to stay with my same host family from last semester - so fun!
2. We discovered 2 for 1 cocktails night at Chic Corner Bar (aka the Chill Out Place). This was a great way to hang out with our students off campus every week, as well as a good way to go out on a budget!
3. We hosted a "She's the Man/He's the Woman" dress up movie night in which we watched one of my faves, She's the Man. (Thank you Amanda Bynes for being so ridiculous).
4. Watched the Justin Bieber Movie 3 times, twice in 3D (pronounced "tres d"). It's true, Bean has a real obsession forming.
5. Sadly, we said goodbye to our semester students and the Holsinger Yoder family. It is always so sad to say goodbye to people who you come to know and love and share amazing experiences with. My hope is that I'll spend lots of time hanging out with you wonderful people this summer/fall in Spokane!! (Also, we look forward to spending time with our summer interns!).
6. Costa Rica had a 6.0 earthquake that was actually a little scary. I was forced to hop/fall out of my bedroom window in an effort to get outside quickly.
7. The TA TA TAs took a little backpacking trip to the Guanacaste region, visiting some amazing beaches, one of which is supposed to be in the top five most beautiful beaches of CR - Playa Conchal. All of the hype about it is correct - super beautiful!
8. I finally read Gulliver's Travels. This has been on the list since we ended up not reading it in AP English my junior year of high school. It's true, the advertising for the movie reminded me that I still hadn't read it, so I took it off my shelf and went for it. I love the feeling of reading a classic!
Other things Emily wanted to mention but that don't fit into the previous game category:
1. I move home in a month and I can't even believe it.
2. My dearest Lexie is getting in tonight for a visit! I can't wait to spend time with her and other friends who are coming to visit in the next few weeks!
3. I'll try to post some pictures soon to help with all the catch up!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
And we're back! I mean, we're leaving...
Punta Mona did not disappoint! It was so wonderful to be able to return, even for a short time. Here is a link to the website, if you're interested in seeing what it's all about: http://www.puntamona.org/
Stephen Brooks, the guy who started Punta Mona, was there, which was super exciting. He always brings an extra energy to the place, and I am so glad our students had the chance to take a farm tour with him, as well as hear all about his personal history and the history of the farm. Also, his wife Sarah Wu, the farm manager, was there as well, which means we got a super interesting herbal medicine walk/talk, as that is one of her areas of study.
I am always extremely inspired when I visit Punta Mona - there is such a feeling of peace there, it always helps me re-center and focus on my personal impact on the world around me. I was especially excited to see that they have now converted all their toilets into composting toilets! Sooo exciting, and amazing to think about how if we all composted our personal waste, we could change the world. Looking into ways that we could start a similar project up on our campus....
On the way to the Caribbean we stopped by a banana plantation to talk to workers and hear about the process. Between that and being at Punta Mona, I am definitely reconsidering my banana consumption patterns for when I return to the States. Although I already try to purchase entirely organic produce, because of the human and environmental cost, the ideas rolling around my head are about endeavoring to eat more local produce, choosing not to support systems that have such high environmental costs.
Overall, it was a great weekend. Definitely the least stressful of all the trips we've taken, for which I am extremely grateful. Also, this was the first trip that I personally have planned and led from beginning to end all on my own, so there is a nice feeling of accomplishment that something I did came to fruition and was successful.
On Thursday it’s off to our second ecology trip to the Pacific! This is the second half of my ecology trip planning responsibilities, so please be thinking of us as we head off. I was so grateful for the way things worked out on our last trip - God clearly has all the details in mind that I can't even necessary plan. Please send us positive energy, thoughts, and prayers as we travel!
On a final note - SUCH good news - I now have a plan/place to be for the fall. I'll pass along details eventually, as they get worked out, but mostly I'm so so thankful that something is coming together!
¡Pura Vida Mai!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Punta Mona here I come!
Tomorrow morning we leave bright and early to head over to the Caribbean coast. We'll spend a night in an awesome hostel in Punta Uva, and then Saturday morning we're heading to the happiest place on earth - Punta Mona!
I seriously can't wait! Monday, April 4, 2011
I'm having a hard time coming up with a clever title.
I had such a great time hanging out with my Dad while he was here visiting - thanks for coming Daddy!
Since then things have been relatively crazy - what's new, right?
I think I mentioned a while back that amongst us 24/7s we have different responsibilities - mine being library, technology, publications/website stuff, as well as planning and leading our two ecology trips.
Well, it is now April, which means the ecology course starts tomorrow, which means our trips are happening this week and next week, which means that I have so much work to do. Oh, don't worry, last week I was able to get most of the details worked out, and because I was working so hard on all of that I was unable to post or catch up with many of you, my dear friends.
Since the Conservation & Human Rights course begins tomorrow that also means that.....Bertie & Jim have returned! Yes, we are sooooo excited to have them back with us again this semester - Jim even retired in order to come stay with us again!
Anyway, so I've been super busy planning all the details of our trip to the Caribbean this weekend (Punta Mona here we come - can't wait!!!) and for our trip to the Pacific next weekend. So if you feel so inclined, please pray that all the details finish coming together, that the trips go smoothly, safely, and that we have fun and learn a ton.
I'll leave you with a few more photos of my time with my Dad!
Of course we had to have a beach day - thank you Playa Hermosa. 
He may or may not have caught us in the middle of a dance party. This dance photo brought to you by Lady Gaga.
My favorite Sunday morning activity, visiting the Feria (farmer's market)! 
Of course we got some pupusas to take back home for lunch.
This was his response to the driving here.
So I said "Don't worry Dad, I'll drive!" And I totally am old enough to rent my own car here. Thursday, March 24, 2011
Visitors
It's been a while since we caught up.
I went to Nicaragua for a week, and since then I've been super busy with visitors coming in and out of the CRC. Right after we got back from Nica the CASP group was here for a week - hence, hanging out with friends old and new, hence no blogging.
And now, the best visitor of all is here - my Daddy!
Here are a few pictures of what we've done in the last few days:
I went to Nicaragua for a week, and since then I've been super busy with visitors coming in and out of the CRC. Right after we got back from Nica the CASP group was here for a week - hence, hanging out with friends old and new, hence no blogging.
And now, the best visitor of all is here - my Daddy!
Here are a few pictures of what we've done in the last few days:
Dinner at my favorite restaurant - Comida Libanesa (Lebanese).
Canopy Adventure! Yes, he did!
We had a Star Wars Sleepover with our spring students - obviously I am Queen Amidala.
I love this picture that my Dad took on the drive up to Poás.
This is our Volcán Poás picture. Oh wait, you can't even see the volcano because of all the clouds.
But we were able to see the lake.
Daddy's turn to take a picture with the "poor man's umbrella". Since Bethany, Mom and I all have pictures with this plant already...
We visited Doka Estate to learn all about the coffee growing, processing and roasting process. This is Daddy turning the coffee in part one of the drying process.
American Gothic anyone?
He got to meet our favorite pup, Larry! They are already great friends.
It is so great having my Dad here - I love you Daddy!
Friday, March 4, 2011
¡Nicaragua, ya vengo!
In case you're interested, in about 11 hours I will be on a Ticabus to Nicaragua. That's right, its that time of the semester again folks - time to llevar these estudiantes to Nica.
Lara and I are leading our group of students (and the Yoder-Holsinger fam) to Nicaragua for a week. It will be chock full of fun - conferencias, Embassy visits, farm tours, and volcanos. Should be a blast!
So if you think of it, keep us in your prayers as we travel and learn from our Nicaraguan friends and neighbors.
Hope you all have a great week; we'll catch up when I get back!
Lara and I are leading our group of students (and the Yoder-Holsinger fam) to Nicaragua for a week. It will be chock full of fun - conferencias, Embassy visits, farm tours, and volcanos. Should be a blast!
So if you think of it, keep us in your prayers as we travel and learn from our Nicaraguan friends and neighbors.
Hope you all have a great week; we'll catch up when I get back!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
¡Feliz Cumple Hermanita!
"Hannah banana fee fi fo fanna, Hannah!"
That's right, today is my baby sister's birthday. My how time flies! (said in old timey voice).
So, I've always tended to call Hannah my hermanita, because she's my little sis. However, recently I referred to her as that to a Tica friend, to which the friend asked for her age. When I told her, she laughed at the fact that I had called an 18 year old "hermanita" - apparently you're growing out of that term Hannah. But probably not too much.
That's right, today is my baby sister's birthday. My how time flies! (said in old timey voice).
So, I've always tended to call Hannah my hermanita, because she's my little sis. However, recently I referred to her as that to a Tica friend, to which the friend asked for her age. When I told her, she laughed at the fact that I had called an 18 year old "hermanita" - apparently you're growing out of that term Hannah. But probably not too much.
Bethany, Emily and Hannah; Christmas 2009
I am soooooo thankful for my gorgeous, caring, hilarious, thoughtful little sister!
Love you Margaret! Happy 19th Birthday!!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
The 10
For those of you who are recent Whitworth grads, have you discovered The 10 yet?
Its a Whitworth blog focused in on alumni from the last 10 graduating classes. I discovered it a few months ago, and its kind of cool to see what is going on with other grads.
http://whitworth10.wordpress.com/
But the reason I bring this up is that the most recent post on The 10 is about the CRC! As part of my work on communications and advertising here, (I'm working on the new website that is going live soon, as well as a facebook page, etc) I wrote a guest blog post for The 10, which was posted today. (I know it might seem like I'm tooting my own horn, but mostly I just want as many people to know about the CRC as possible!). So if you're interested, here is the link to that post:
http://whitworth10.wordpress.com/2011/02/23/%c2%a1pura-vida/
¡Pura Vida Mae!
Its a Whitworth blog focused in on alumni from the last 10 graduating classes. I discovered it a few months ago, and its kind of cool to see what is going on with other grads.
http://whitworth10.wordpress.com/
But the reason I bring this up is that the most recent post on The 10 is about the CRC! As part of my work on communications and advertising here, (I'm working on the new website that is going live soon, as well as a facebook page, etc) I wrote a guest blog post for The 10, which was posted today. (I know it might seem like I'm tooting my own horn, but mostly I just want as many people to know about the CRC as possible!). So if you're interested, here is the link to that post:
http://whitworth10.wordpress.com/2011/02/23/%c2%a1pura-vida/
¡Pura Vida Mae!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Lately
Lately (as in the last month or two) the sky has been doing this really amazing lighting trick in the evenings as the sun is setting. It will be really dark and cloudy, yet a ray of light will shine through the clouds and light up around our lakes. In the opposite direction we have gorgeous cotton candy sunsets. Last night I tried to capture some of the amazing coloring of that particular sunset. These pictures don't do it justice, but at least it gives you an idea.
Lately (as in a few days ago) a dear, dear friend of mine (one of our last semester students) sent me an email with this picture attached:
If you know me even a little bit, you know that How I Met Your Mother is one of my all-time favorite shows. (Remember the Tragedy of Senior Year when I couldn't find my 3rd & 4th seasons of the show for over 6 months?) Well, this friend and I first bonded over HIMYM last semester - we were the only 2 people on campus that seemed to know and love the show - so we REALLY bonded over it, always quoting it and making jokes, then realizing we were the only people who actually got the jokes...
If you know me even a little bit, you know that How I Met Your Mother is one of my all-time favorite shows. (Remember the Tragedy of Senior Year when I couldn't find my 3rd & 4th seasons of the show for over 6 months?) Well, this friend and I first bonded over HIMYM last semester - we were the only 2 people on campus that seemed to know and love the show - so we REALLY bonded over it, always quoting it and making jokes, then realizing we were the only people who actually got the jokes...
Anyway, she sent me this picture because this was posted on the wall in a computer lab up at Whitworth North. I just LOVE that this was posted on the wall there! It makes me super happy, and I thought it was pretty funny, so I decided to share it with you all so you could enjoy it as well!
Lately (as in last night) there was an earthquake. Exciting, I know. This is the third or fourth we've felt since we moved here 7 months ago. At first I just blamed the shaking on Bean moving around on the top bunk - but then I remembered that she wasn't on her bunk, she wasn't even here, but in Nicaragua for a few days. Then I looked over at our moving rocking chairs and new for sure it was an earthquake. Last time we felt an earthquake Bean's reaction was "Am I drunk, or is that an earthquake? Oh wait, I haven't had anything to drink". So now I just laugh and think of that every time there's an earthquake.
Lately (as in the last two years) I've been a pretty faithful listener to Ingrid Michaelson' Be Okay cd. Numerous housemates and roommates have become sick of it, but I just don't get tired of her music. She seems to sing what I feel. As a vocalist, this means a great deal to me. So, with some birthday money I went ahead and purchased two more of her cds last month, and I am so enjoying them! (Sorry Bean, at least you don't have to listen to the same 12 songs anymore - now you get a little Ingrid variety!)
Check these cds out if you need something new - I would definitely recommend them!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Every day is Friendship Day at Whitworth South
Happy (late) Valentine's Day, or as it has been so aptly renamed, Happy (late) Friendship Day!
I felt very spoiled yesterday. Thanks to Josh for the rose, Xandria for the Wizard of Oz Valentine and the heart sucker, Olivia for the cute heart string decorations, and whoever made the cute decorations for our office door. A special thank you to Kyle for the super cute painted box full of chocolate hugs and Valentines, sent all the way from Spokane with Lindy, just in time for V/F Day. And of course, Friendship Day wouldn't be the same without the impromptu musical stylings of Jonathan Royal. If you're lucky, I'll get access to his music video and post it here soon, for your enjoyment.
Thank you all for making this the most special V/F Day to date!
Happy Valentine's/Friendship Day!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Pets
I don't think I've ever formally introduced you to Larry. He is our adopted dog here at the CRC. And by adopted, I mean that he adopted us. He comes and goes as he pleases, and I think he actually has one (or two?) houses that he actually to. The story is that his owner moved, so the neighborhood just sort of took care of him communally. He is a free, roaming spirit. However, he has taken a liking to us, and we love him right back! Here he is saying hi to us from our office window:
Living in semi-open-air housing means that we get plenty of insects in and out of our apartments. We don't normally mind them, and often we get very pretty moths that I actually enjoy, like this one:
But there are some insect guests we do NOT appreciate. This is a picture of what is left of our most recent guest:
Now, as Peace Studies Majors, Bean and I typically try to set bugs free outside when possible (even spiders sometimes, tis true). But when Bean saw this spider today, she killed it immediately, so quickly in fact that Lara and I were a little shocked. We both sort of expected her to set it free outside, since we were heading that way already. I guess I can't blame her though, I'm not the biggest spider fan myself.
Now, as Peace Studies Majors, Bean and I typically try to set bugs free outside when possible (even spiders sometimes, tis true). But when Bean saw this spider today, she killed it immediately, so quickly in fact that Lara and I were a little shocked. We both sort of expected her to set it free outside, since we were heading that way already. I guess I can't blame her though, I'm not the biggest spider fan myself.
Now we have this gross, sad, dead spider on our wall. It remains there as a warning to other spiders that might disturb our peace. Or maybe we're just too lazy to clean it up.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Fame!
In case you were wondering, an hour after my last post I read on the news that the Vatican has shot down that Iphone app. Interesting times we live in!
On a totally different note, our campus was recently discussed in the Mind & Heart, a monthly publication put out by Whitworth President Beck Taylor for students, staff, alumni and friends. Following is what Beck has to say:
"¡Pura vida! That's Costa Rican for "Life's good!" Amidst other travels in January to California, Texas and Washington, D.C., I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to Whitworth's newest campus, just north of San José, Costa Rica. I was thrilled to spend three days with students who were studying there for Jan Term (see Academics, below), and to tour the facilities and surrounding areas. The Costa Rica campus (or "Whitworth South," as director Lindy Scott likes to call it) is Whitworth's latest effort to provide the best international and cross-cultural experiences for our students and faculty. Building on Whitworth's decades-old Central America Studies Program, the Costa Rica Center provides a home base in one of the region's most dynamic economic and cultural centers. I am so proud that Whitworth has taken a bold and innovative step to provide life-changing experiences for students who are studying Spanish and who are interested in issues such as economic development, conservation, social entrepreneurship and political affairs. The students and I had fun sharing some local experiences together and playing games to get to know each other. Special thanks to directors Lindy and Dinorah Scott (both Modern Languages), and staff members Lara Lichten, '10, Kristina Kielbon, '09, and Emily Dufault, '10, for their leadership and service. Life is good at Whitworth South!"
-Beck Taylor, February 2011 Mind & Heart
Super exciting! Thanks for the kind words and encouragement Beck, we were so happy to have you! Come again soon!
On a totally different note, our campus was recently discussed in the Mind & Heart, a monthly publication put out by Whitworth President Beck Taylor for students, staff, alumni and friends. Following is what Beck has to say:
"¡Pura vida! That's Costa Rican for "Life's good!" Amidst other travels in January to California, Texas and Washington, D.C., I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to Whitworth's newest campus, just north of San José, Costa Rica. I was thrilled to spend three days with students who were studying there for Jan Term (see Academics, below), and to tour the facilities and surrounding areas. The Costa Rica campus (or "Whitworth South," as director Lindy Scott likes to call it) is Whitworth's latest effort to provide the best international and cross-cultural experiences for our students and faculty. Building on Whitworth's decades-old Central America Studies Program, the Costa Rica Center provides a home base in one of the region's most dynamic economic and cultural centers. I am so proud that Whitworth has taken a bold and innovative step to provide life-changing experiences for students who are studying Spanish and who are interested in issues such as economic development, conservation, social entrepreneurship and political affairs. The students and I had fun sharing some local experiences together and playing games to get to know each other. Special thanks to directors Lindy and Dinorah Scott (both Modern Languages), and staff members Lara Lichten, '10, Kristina Kielbon, '09, and Emily Dufault, '10, for their leadership and service. Life is good at Whitworth South!"
-Beck Taylor, February 2011 Mind & Heart
Super exciting! Thanks for the kind words and encouragement Beck, we were so happy to have you! Come again soon!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Simple to Use, Catholic Church Approved
So, this is just a funny little tidbit for those of you interested in the way technology is changing the world.
Or, as Bean said in the email in which she forwarded me this article "Here you go you lovely sinners. Ready for your confession".
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2011/02/09/133618133/catholic-church-oks-confession-app-but-you-still-have-to-see-a-priest
*Disclaimer: as someone whose parents were raised in the Catholic Church and as someone who has learned so much from the Latin American Catholic Church, this post is in no way meant disrespectfully, it is simply a poli sci/sociology nerd's interest in changing world trends*
Or, as Bean said in the email in which she forwarded me this article "Here you go you lovely sinners. Ready for your confession".
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2011/02/09/133618133/catholic-church-oks-confession-app-but-you-still-have-to-see-a-priest
*Disclaimer: as someone whose parents were raised in the Catholic Church and as someone who has learned so much from the Latin American Catholic Church, this post is in no way meant disrespectfully, it is simply a poli sci/sociology nerd's interest in changing world trends*
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Catching Up
Funny thing. Just minutes after I published that last blog post I found this amazing quote on Bean's blog (check it out if you haven't - she's the best - thebeankielbon.wordpress.com):
"Like all great travelers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen" - Benjamin Disraeli
I feel like this quote voices that which I am constantly feeling. I always want to post everything on this blog but just don't have time. Every day things happen that I wish I could share with you all - funny experiences, learning experiences, or just things that I think are cool and that I think you all might enjoy as well. I'm constantly trying to decide what are the most important things to share on this blog that I only have the time or energy to update periodically. Anyway, I just really identify with that quote and thought I'd share.
Let's see: it has only been about 2 weeks since our JTerm group left us. We had about two days between them and the arrival of the Yoder Holsinger family, and then another day before the arrival of our 20 spring semester students. After a week of orientation and the beginning of classes, we had a convivio Saturday morning with all of our host fams, and then sent our students home with the families afterwards.
Sunday we got our first real day off in about a month and a half and it was glorious! The Holsingers, Lara, Derek and I loaded into the van and took a beach day. Two and a half hours later we were soaking up the rays, humidity, and almost 100 degrees of Playa Hermosa. It was the perfect beach day, and my soul needed it. After a few hours of heaven, we drove back up to our mountain, where it was atleast 30 degrees colder.
Mondays are now internship days (as opposed to Fridays), so yesterday I spent most of the day driving students back and forth from their internships. Today was the first day that all the students were back on campus since they left for their homestays, and it was great to hear the stories. I started 1 on 1s with a few of my 7 students today, taking an hour or so with each of them to hear how they're doing academically, personally, how they're transitioning, etc. It is great to hear how well our students are adjusting and how much they're enjoying the homestays already.
Oh, and today we got a package from one of our Jterm freshmen! It was full of letters, cute Valentine's Day decorations, and awards for each of us 24/7s. You are the best Olivia and you totally made our day!
On a different note, it is so strange for me to be here in Central America while this current CASP group is as well. I guess I just remember my trip so vividly because I'm back in the region and having some of the same experiences, which makes me think of this current group so much more. This last Friday they were all dropped off in their Honduran homestays. This is the part of CASP where they are all alone in a different little town in the mountains of Honduras for a month. While this was an amazing learning experience for me, it was also one of the loneliest, most difficult months of my life. During this time I read the book Gracias! by Henri Nouwen. This last Friday I started rereading it in honor of these CASP students who are probably reading it right now in their Honduran homes. Seriously, if you've never read this book you really should - it will change your life. And if you're thinking of them, say a prayer for the CASPers - this is one of the most rewarding, but also intense parts of the program.
Well, I know this post was a random smattering of information, but thats kind of how my life is right now (and really has been for the last 7 months)- just trying to get things done and emails answered when I can in between running errands, helping students connect to the wifi, making phone calls, cataloguing library books, etc. I guess thats why they call Bean, Lara and me 24/7s!
Life is good!
"Like all great travelers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen" - Benjamin Disraeli
I feel like this quote voices that which I am constantly feeling. I always want to post everything on this blog but just don't have time. Every day things happen that I wish I could share with you all - funny experiences, learning experiences, or just things that I think are cool and that I think you all might enjoy as well. I'm constantly trying to decide what are the most important things to share on this blog that I only have the time or energy to update periodically. Anyway, I just really identify with that quote and thought I'd share.
Let's see: it has only been about 2 weeks since our JTerm group left us. We had about two days between them and the arrival of the Yoder Holsinger family, and then another day before the arrival of our 20 spring semester students. After a week of orientation and the beginning of classes, we had a convivio Saturday morning with all of our host fams, and then sent our students home with the families afterwards.
Sunday we got our first real day off in about a month and a half and it was glorious! The Holsingers, Lara, Derek and I loaded into the van and took a beach day. Two and a half hours later we were soaking up the rays, humidity, and almost 100 degrees of Playa Hermosa. It was the perfect beach day, and my soul needed it. After a few hours of heaven, we drove back up to our mountain, where it was atleast 30 degrees colder.
Mondays are now internship days (as opposed to Fridays), so yesterday I spent most of the day driving students back and forth from their internships. Today was the first day that all the students were back on campus since they left for their homestays, and it was great to hear the stories. I started 1 on 1s with a few of my 7 students today, taking an hour or so with each of them to hear how they're doing academically, personally, how they're transitioning, etc. It is great to hear how well our students are adjusting and how much they're enjoying the homestays already.
Oh, and today we got a package from one of our Jterm freshmen! It was full of letters, cute Valentine's Day decorations, and awards for each of us 24/7s. You are the best Olivia and you totally made our day!
On a different note, it is so strange for me to be here in Central America while this current CASP group is as well. I guess I just remember my trip so vividly because I'm back in the region and having some of the same experiences, which makes me think of this current group so much more. This last Friday they were all dropped off in their Honduran homestays. This is the part of CASP where they are all alone in a different little town in the mountains of Honduras for a month. While this was an amazing learning experience for me, it was also one of the loneliest, most difficult months of my life. During this time I read the book Gracias! by Henri Nouwen. This last Friday I started rereading it in honor of these CASP students who are probably reading it right now in their Honduran homes. Seriously, if you've never read this book you really should - it will change your life. And if you're thinking of them, say a prayer for the CASPers - this is one of the most rewarding, but also intense parts of the program.
Well, I know this post was a random smattering of information, but thats kind of how my life is right now (and really has been for the last 7 months)- just trying to get things done and emails answered when I can in between running errands, helping students connect to the wifi, making phone calls, cataloguing library books, etc. I guess thats why they call Bean, Lara and me 24/7s!
Life is good!
Let's take a step back
Something happened last semester that I never had a chance to blog about. It was a once-in-lifetime experience though, and I've really been wanting to tell you all about it.
During our ecology class last semester we took a little field trip. Now, overall this trip was generally stressful and not always enjoyable for me as a leader due to some poor communication throughout, however, there was one particular evening that changed my life.
Now, some of you might remember that when we went to Punta Mona during CASP, we went on a midnight turtle walk with the hopes of seeing sea turtles laying eggs. Unfortunately, we didn't see any turtles. Well, on our ecology trip we spent a night at a turtle project on the Nicoya Peninsula. At this site, the volunteers patrol the beach night and day, collecting turtle egg nests and transporting them to a nursery where the eggs have a higher risk of surviving because they are protected from the elements and other animals.
The night we were at the site, something truly amazing happened.
About 8 nests hatched.
At around 500 turtles per nest, around 4000 baby sea turtles hatched that night. The one night we were staying at the site.
That night I had the great privilege of releasing literally hundreds of baby sea turtles into the sea. There is nothing like holding a tiny little life that is smaller than the palm of your hand which you know might one day grow to be the size of a VW Bug. While I have still never seen an adult sea turtle, I feel overwhelmingly blessed for the opportunity to come to know these tiny creatures. Something changed deep within me as I released the babies one by one to the sea, praying for their safety and survival in this harsh world.
You see, sea turtles are a critically endangered species. I can't remember the exact statistics (I was unable to write the info down because it was pitch black out and I was busy releasing turtles), but only a handful of those 4000 turtles will survive. Even with the help of turtle conservation sites such as Romelias, only a tiny portion of baby turtles that go out to sea will survive to adulthood. (I think the statistic was something crazy, like only 4 or 5 out of every 1000 - don't quote me on that though). As I released them, I felt a sadness knowing their chances of survival, and prayed that these statistics might change.
There are many causes of sea turtle endangerment. However, one fact that I can help change is habitat destruction - specifically by trash. As we hiked into the Romelias site, I was deeply saddened by the state of the beaches we crossed - they were completely covered in garbage. I mean covered in trash, everything from plastic bags and bottles, to old baby dolls, to sandals and tennis shoes - everything. Pollution destroys natural habits and endangers the well being of animals coming and going from such areas. I had just never seen such a clear example of this pollution before.
If you know me well or have ever lived with me, you know I'm really passionate about reusing things, recycling, composting, etc. Its all part of my effort to cut down waste and be a good steward of God's Creation. This experience only renewed my deep desire to use and waste less in general. It was also a great reminder of why we are setting up the CRC the way we are - releasing baby sea turtles was a tangible reminder of why we are composting and recycling, and generally trying to have as little impact on our mountain as possible.
So, next time you are throwing away something recyclable, compostable, or getting rid of something that could be reused by you or someone else (think Goodwill) - picture these precious little guys and make the choice to care for Creation in a new way.
(These aren't my pictures because it was too dark to take any, but you get the idea:-)
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
The Mudscapades
So, about an hour ago Lara and I decided to go for a walk because the internet was down and we couldn't really get any work done without it.
To start off, Lara forced me to go down a road that Bean has warned us about - a road where she was almost murdered by killer dogs. So I wasn't stoked we were going this direction, but I grabbed a big stick to carry with me just in case.
Suddenly, we heard some ferocious barking, and terrifyingly close too. I thought it sounded like it was a few block over, but Lara was convinced it was on the road with us, and started sprinting back the way we came. The adrenaline and fear kicked in, and I started sprinting after her, leaping right into a mud-sink-hole-type-thing. Did I mention this road was extremely muddy? Well, it was extremely muddy, and I was extremely stuck - we're talking mud up to my thigh. So we are both terrified we are going to get killed by dogs, our adrenaline is rushing, hearts are racing, and I'm stuck in the mud. As I'm rocking my right leg back and forth in order to try to make room to pull my leg out, yelling expletives trying to get Lara's attention, she carefully worked her way over to me, while at the same time trying not to get stuck in the mud herself. Finally she was able to help pull me out, although I lost one shoe in the mud.
At this point, we decided it was time to just hop the barbed wire fence and get back onto our property. Not that being on the other side of a fence would do much to save us from big dogs, but it can't hurt, right? So, we try hopping the fence, but Lara cuts her hand and decides its not going to happen. We end up pulling the barbed wire up, and stepping down on the other parts of it, and sliding through. I was able to grab my shoe and throw it over the fence before crawling through myself. That fence wasn't seeming like it would do a whole lot to protect us, so we decided to cut across from there, heading into the middle of our property, behind the lakes.
As we're starting to wade our way through a mess of trees and bushes that clearly were not meant to be cut through, Lara asks "we don't have any poisonous plants on the property, do we?" I answer back "Nope, none! Keep going". Of course we don't have any poisonous plants, not when we're running from deadly dogs. Its true, I faked the answer Lara wanted to hear because something like poisonous plants wasn't going to force us to turn back now. (Watch, I'm sure we'll both have some sort of terrible rashes tomorrow). As we make our way through the bush we get caught multiple times in a very spiny plant, but we made our way through mostly unscathed.
After that we wandered on our property for awhile, and then I ended up jumping into one of the lakes in an effort to get some of the caked mud off of my legs and shoes. Thats right Rachel, I guess you win. I've been avoiding that lake water at all costs the last months, but it finally won.
In the end we made it out with only a few scrapes, to Lara's hand and legs mostly.
Thats what you get for forcing me to go down the dangerous road Lara - a barbed wire cut hand, scratched up legs and spiky plants stuck in your hair. :-)
To start off, Lara forced me to go down a road that Bean has warned us about - a road where she was almost murdered by killer dogs. So I wasn't stoked we were going this direction, but I grabbed a big stick to carry with me just in case.
Suddenly, we heard some ferocious barking, and terrifyingly close too. I thought it sounded like it was a few block over, but Lara was convinced it was on the road with us, and started sprinting back the way we came. The adrenaline and fear kicked in, and I started sprinting after her, leaping right into a mud-sink-hole-type-thing. Did I mention this road was extremely muddy? Well, it was extremely muddy, and I was extremely stuck - we're talking mud up to my thigh. So we are both terrified we are going to get killed by dogs, our adrenaline is rushing, hearts are racing, and I'm stuck in the mud. As I'm rocking my right leg back and forth in order to try to make room to pull my leg out, yelling expletives trying to get Lara's attention, she carefully worked her way over to me, while at the same time trying not to get stuck in the mud herself. Finally she was able to help pull me out, although I lost one shoe in the mud.
At this point, we decided it was time to just hop the barbed wire fence and get back onto our property. Not that being on the other side of a fence would do much to save us from big dogs, but it can't hurt, right? So, we try hopping the fence, but Lara cuts her hand and decides its not going to happen. We end up pulling the barbed wire up, and stepping down on the other parts of it, and sliding through. I was able to grab my shoe and throw it over the fence before crawling through myself. That fence wasn't seeming like it would do a whole lot to protect us, so we decided to cut across from there, heading into the middle of our property, behind the lakes.
As we're starting to wade our way through a mess of trees and bushes that clearly were not meant to be cut through, Lara asks "we don't have any poisonous plants on the property, do we?" I answer back "Nope, none! Keep going". Of course we don't have any poisonous plants, not when we're running from deadly dogs. Its true, I faked the answer Lara wanted to hear because something like poisonous plants wasn't going to force us to turn back now. (Watch, I'm sure we'll both have some sort of terrible rashes tomorrow). As we make our way through the bush we get caught multiple times in a very spiny plant, but we made our way through mostly unscathed.
After that we wandered on our property for awhile, and then I ended up jumping into one of the lakes in an effort to get some of the caked mud off of my legs and shoes. Thats right Rachel, I guess you win. I've been avoiding that lake water at all costs the last months, but it finally won.
In the end we made it out with only a few scrapes, to Lara's hand and legs mostly.
Thats what you get for forcing me to go down the dangerous road Lara - a barbed wire cut hand, scratched up legs and spiky plants stuck in your hair. :-)
Note the sticks and such sticking in the mud on my legs.
This water is so disgusting.
This is for you Rachel.
Hello February!
Wow, who can believe it is February already? I have been living in Costa Rica for almost 7 months - thats just crazy.
My birthday was two days ago. Thanks so much to everyone who made it special by sending letters, facebook messages, skype calls, etc. And thanks to my friends and family here in CR for spoiling me with that Needtobreathe cd we've been listening to constantly (thanks freshmen for the musical suggestions), nutella, dark chocolate, expensive cheese (yum!), and an amazing shadow box of pictures from Fall and Jterm (Bean & Lara, you are the best!).
My birthday was two days ago. Thanks so much to everyone who made it special by sending letters, facebook messages, skype calls, etc. And thanks to my friends and family here in CR for spoiling me with that Needtobreathe cd we've been listening to constantly (thanks freshmen for the musical suggestions), nutella, dark chocolate, expensive cheese (yum!), and an amazing shadow box of pictures from Fall and Jterm (Bean & Lara, you are the best!).
Well, our spring students arrived this last weekend and we've been orienting the heck out of them. After two full days of orientation and plunges into San Rafa and Heredia, classes began yesterday. Yes, you heard correctly - spring term has begun. I'm shocked myself. Thinking back to the days when we were living in the villa, waiting for construction to finish and for our first group of students to show up, it all seems like years ago! Its exciting to look at all that we've done and to thinkg of all that will happen with this new group of students! We're doing our best to get the group bonding started now - with games of Curses (thanks for leaving it for the campus Michael - its the best!), and back by popular demand - Cookies & Community night is happening tonight! (Although the cookies may be substituted with banana bread....). I can't wait to see how this group of diverse students will come together and form a caring community.
Oh, and perhaps the most exciting news of all....the solar panels just arrived....be expecting a blog post soon about our steps to further the sustainability of our CR campus!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
That My Heart May Sing To You
"You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. Oh Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever." Psalm 30:11-12
Yesterday was a difficult day. Saying goodbye to people you've come to know and love is hard. But today I found this verse that has meant so much to me for so many years, and it reminds me to be thankful.
So, this morning I am thankful for the beautiful sunshine. I'm thankful for the time I got to spend napping in the sunshine yesterday. I'm thankful for the new curtains in our room that block out the sunshine so I can sleep later on those rare mornings (like today) when I get to sleep in. I am eternally thankful for skype - and the opportunities I had last night to skype with my little sis and my dearest roommate. I'm thankful that the wireless is working on my laptop again. I'm thankful to live in a place that is so beautiful, people typically only come here to vacation. And I'm forever thankful for this amazing group of people that I work and live with. Pura Vida Mae! (Or for those of you currently in Guatemala - Pura Utz!)
Yesterday was a difficult day. Saying goodbye to people you've come to know and love is hard. But today I found this verse that has meant so much to me for so many years, and it reminds me to be thankful.
So, this morning I am thankful for the beautiful sunshine. I'm thankful for the time I got to spend napping in the sunshine yesterday. I'm thankful for the new curtains in our room that block out the sunshine so I can sleep later on those rare mornings (like today) when I get to sleep in. I am eternally thankful for skype - and the opportunities I had last night to skype with my little sis and my dearest roommate. I'm thankful that the wireless is working on my laptop again. I'm thankful to live in a place that is so beautiful, people typically only come here to vacation. And I'm forever thankful for this amazing group of people that I work and live with. Pura Vida Mae! (Or for those of you currently in Guatemala - Pura Utz!)
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Adios JTerm!
Well, a few hours ago we loaded up the majority of our Jan Term freshmen into a bus and sent them off to the airport. In another hour we'll send the last few of them off as well. There were (and probably still will be) smiles, hugs, tears, and waves goodbye as they drove away.
Saying goodbye to this group has been so much more difficult than I expected it would be. Because of the length of this term and the intensity of the course, students spent the majority of these 3 weeks living on campus. Now, the last couple of years I haven't really missed living in a dorm; I actually have vivid memories of being pretty sick of living in a dorm my junior year, but for 3 weeks it has been a blast! Actually having people around all the time to chat, laugh, sing and joke around with has been a nice treat up here on our sometimes lonely mountain.
A few highlights from this term:
-the witty comics Rose created depicting the funniest moments, not to mention alter egos, of the term
-Bus rides that made for great group bonding time....oh so many bus rides.
-Practicing archery and taking part in a traditional Maleku (indigenous Costa Rican) ceremony.
-Catching a glimpse of Rio Celeste - it really is celeste!
-Watching our campus turning into what felt like the typical Whitworth campus - since the sun was finally out, students went out en mass to play frisbee, swim in the lakes, and just generally disfrutar the sol.
-A visit from Beck Taylor and Michael LeRoy.
-Playing Curses with Beck Taylor and almost all the students at once. I don't think I will ever again see a University President taking the time to interact with students in this capacity.
-Freestylin! (as in jamming - thank you Lara) On buses, in the rotunda - good times! Or as Rose would say "That sh*t is cash!" (Asterisk included for my more sensitive readers).
-Community! ("Buenos Dias Children")
-Watching students swim in the lakes. (I know, this was already kind of mentioned, but it really was funny. I personally stay away from the water in the lakes at all costs - unless there is a raft or something).
-Elbow licking (I felt that Jonathan!)
-And all other general shenanigans which shall not be mentioned here. (You know, what happens in Costa Rica stays in Costa Rica).
But seriously, these last 3 weeks have been such a blessing. Even though it was probably the busiest 3 weeks we've had yet (I know, every post says that) - constantly planning the next activity, running a hotel/dorm, organizing primetime-ish evenings, orienting, debriefing, grocery shopping, and doing just anything else that needed to be done - this has been the happiest 3 weeks for me here. Last fall I felt so stressed so constantly that I wasn't able to enjoy the students and our location to the fullest. But now that we have Lara (a 3rd volunteer), and now that the sun is shining a little more, life is great.
Thank you so much to my 31 freshmen, Rick Hornor, Josh & Mandy Orozco and their boys for being so wonderful! Students, I was constantly impressed by your maturity, flexibility, helpfulness, and general love and care for those around you. You will be sorely missed!
Saying goodbye to this group has been so much more difficult than I expected it would be. Because of the length of this term and the intensity of the course, students spent the majority of these 3 weeks living on campus. Now, the last couple of years I haven't really missed living in a dorm; I actually have vivid memories of being pretty sick of living in a dorm my junior year, but for 3 weeks it has been a blast! Actually having people around all the time to chat, laugh, sing and joke around with has been a nice treat up here on our sometimes lonely mountain.
A few highlights from this term:
-the witty comics Rose created depicting the funniest moments, not to mention alter egos, of the term
-Bus rides that made for great group bonding time....oh so many bus rides.
-Practicing archery and taking part in a traditional Maleku (indigenous Costa Rican) ceremony.
-Catching a glimpse of Rio Celeste - it really is celeste!
-Watching our campus turning into what felt like the typical Whitworth campus - since the sun was finally out, students went out en mass to play frisbee, swim in the lakes, and just generally disfrutar the sol.
-A visit from Beck Taylor and Michael LeRoy.
-Playing Curses with Beck Taylor and almost all the students at once. I don't think I will ever again see a University President taking the time to interact with students in this capacity.
-Freestylin! (as in jamming - thank you Lara) On buses, in the rotunda - good times! Or as Rose would say "That sh*t is cash!" (Asterisk included for my more sensitive readers).
-Community! ("Buenos Dias Children")
-Watching students swim in the lakes. (I know, this was already kind of mentioned, but it really was funny. I personally stay away from the water in the lakes at all costs - unless there is a raft or something).
-Elbow licking (I felt that Jonathan!)
-And all other general shenanigans which shall not be mentioned here. (You know, what happens in Costa Rica stays in Costa Rica).
But seriously, these last 3 weeks have been such a blessing. Even though it was probably the busiest 3 weeks we've had yet (I know, every post says that) - constantly planning the next activity, running a hotel/dorm, organizing primetime-ish evenings, orienting, debriefing, grocery shopping, and doing just anything else that needed to be done - this has been the happiest 3 weeks for me here. Last fall I felt so stressed so constantly that I wasn't able to enjoy the students and our location to the fullest. But now that we have Lara (a 3rd volunteer), and now that the sun is shining a little more, life is great.
Thank you so much to my 31 freshmen, Rick Hornor, Josh & Mandy Orozco and their boys for being so wonderful! Students, I was constantly impressed by your maturity, flexibility, helpfulness, and general love and care for those around you. You will be sorely missed!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Sunny Days
Yesterday two very special guests arrived at the CRC: Michael LeRoy and Beck Taylor (The VP and Pres of Whitworth). We are all soooo excited to have them here with us! Michael is one of my favorite professors (heads up the CASP program), and it is so great getting to know Beck. They're both very excited about the CRC and super supportive, which we all appreciate.
As far as my post title goes, we always joke that whenever Michael comes to visit all the construction workers and employees suddenly get work done a little quicker, because they know the big boss is coming. Whether or not this is true, apparently the weather took note for this visit as well. It has been sunny and gorgeous ever since they arrived - no wind to speak of - Life is good!
As far as my post title goes, we always joke that whenever Michael comes to visit all the construction workers and employees suddenly get work done a little quicker, because they know the big boss is coming. Whether or not this is true, apparently the weather took note for this visit as well. It has been sunny and gorgeous ever since they arrived - no wind to speak of - Life is good!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Central America Study Program Reflections
Three years ago this last week I was on a plane to Guatemala. That flight started a 4 month process that changed me deep inside and changed the course of my future. I don't know who or where I'd be if it weren't for that semester and the experiences I had, the stories I heard, and the hope I was taught.
Yesterday the 2011 group of CASPers landed in Guatemala, beginning the journey that in three years they'll look back on as a turning point in their lives as well. In three years they'll catch themselves thinking they can't believe it has already been three years, and they'll come to understand the reason all of us '08 CASPers have such a profound interest and hope for their experience in Central America. Blessings and safe travels to you dear CASP 2011 students. May you have the curiosity to ask the difficult questions, and the even greater courage to apply those answers to your lives. May you learn the deep love and hope the people of Central America posses. I'll be waiting to see you all and hear all your stories in March!
Timing is really something isn't it? The day that the new CASP group was flying out of SeaTac headed for Guate, the CRC staff was sending our freshmen honors Jan Term students off to their homestays. Bean and Lara took one group, Dinorah took another, and I loaded up 9 students and Rick in a van and took my group. Never before have I actually dropped students off at homestays. Last semester our host fams came up to campus and then we said goodbye to our students from there. But this time, I was overwhelmed with memories from when Karla dropped me off for three weeks by myself in Honduras. I remember the terror of not being able to understand anything, not even my host mother's name. I remember how endlessly grateful I was for Karla speaking slowly and repeating it "Emily, ella se llama Esther. Su mama es Esther". I was so thankful for Karla's strength and understanding of what I was going through. Clearly the situation for our students is different: they are not alone in the campo for three weeks, but they are going into what might possibly be their first spanish-speaking homestay ever; while it is only for 2 full days, the fear of not being able to communicate is equally strong I am sure. So I did my best to play that role Karla played for me, of the confident communicator, repeating the names of family members to try to help the students remember, reminding the families that the students are learning and so it is important to speak slowly and just keep repeating things and gesturing if they don't seem to understand.
In just a few hours our students will start returning to campus and the stories will start pouring out. I can't wait to hear all about their experiences, easy or difficult, comfortable or extremely awkward, not to mention all the language slip-ups. I am constantly impressed by this group of freshmen. They have really taken to heart our mantra "embrace the ambiguity". I can't wait to see how their maturity, flexibility and kindness translated to their homestays. And CASP 2011, I have the same high hopes for all of you!
Yesterday the 2011 group of CASPers landed in Guatemala, beginning the journey that in three years they'll look back on as a turning point in their lives as well. In three years they'll catch themselves thinking they can't believe it has already been three years, and they'll come to understand the reason all of us '08 CASPers have such a profound interest and hope for their experience in Central America. Blessings and safe travels to you dear CASP 2011 students. May you have the curiosity to ask the difficult questions, and the even greater courage to apply those answers to your lives. May you learn the deep love and hope the people of Central America posses. I'll be waiting to see you all and hear all your stories in March!
Timing is really something isn't it? The day that the new CASP group was flying out of SeaTac headed for Guate, the CRC staff was sending our freshmen honors Jan Term students off to their homestays. Bean and Lara took one group, Dinorah took another, and I loaded up 9 students and Rick in a van and took my group. Never before have I actually dropped students off at homestays. Last semester our host fams came up to campus and then we said goodbye to our students from there. But this time, I was overwhelmed with memories from when Karla dropped me off for three weeks by myself in Honduras. I remember the terror of not being able to understand anything, not even my host mother's name. I remember how endlessly grateful I was for Karla speaking slowly and repeating it "Emily, ella se llama Esther. Su mama es Esther". I was so thankful for Karla's strength and understanding of what I was going through. Clearly the situation for our students is different: they are not alone in the campo for three weeks, but they are going into what might possibly be their first spanish-speaking homestay ever; while it is only for 2 full days, the fear of not being able to communicate is equally strong I am sure. So I did my best to play that role Karla played for me, of the confident communicator, repeating the names of family members to try to help the students remember, reminding the families that the students are learning and so it is important to speak slowly and just keep repeating things and gesturing if they don't seem to understand.
In just a few hours our students will start returning to campus and the stories will start pouring out. I can't wait to hear all about their experiences, easy or difficult, comfortable or extremely awkward, not to mention all the language slip-ups. I am constantly impressed by this group of freshmen. They have really taken to heart our mantra "embrace the ambiguity". I can't wait to see how their maturity, flexibility and kindness translated to their homestays. And CASP 2011, I have the same high hopes for all of you!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
"2011: The Year I Never Stopped Dancing"
So, that title is in quotes because I actually ripped it off the Bean. She and a few of my other friends have decided that 2011 is going to be the danciest year yet. Now, I'm not a huge dancer, but I do love a good dance party (as my Spokane housemates will affirm). Also, I was recently inspired while watching an older episode of Grey's Anatomy where the main characters whose lives were all falling apart decided to just dance it all out. I am going to try to do that more often this year. When life is stressful and overwhelming, I'm going to dance it out.
Anyway, I know its a little late, but Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, and Souk San Wan Christmas to you all! (If you didn't catch that, that was English, Spanish, and Lao:-).
Also, Happy New Year, Feliz Ano Nuevo! I rang in the New Year with some dear friends last night, getting a good start on our resolution to dance more - we danced for hours, starting right at midnight!
A few days ago after flights, delays, long layovers, and a taxi ride, I arrived back home at Monte de La Cruz. For the two weeks previous I have been hanging out with friends and family in Seattle, Moses Lake and Spokane, celebrating Christmas. Thank you soooo much parents for the plane ticket home - best Christmas gift ever! It was so wonderful to be home, see lots of family (including a few of my cousins' new babies!) and friends. It was a jam packed two weeks, but well worth it for all the amazing people I was able to see.
Another big highlight of my Christmas break is that not only did I come home to Moses Lake for Christmas, but my Lao host sister came as well! She has been living in the States volunteering for a year, and we were able to have her with us for a week over Christmas! It was so wonderful to be able to introduce her to my family, and try to show her the same sweet, loving hospitality that she and her family showed me in January. Another big highlight, she had never seen snow before, so we were able to build a snowman, go sledding, and have a great time in the snow!
And now I'm back on the mountain, finishing my unpacking, relaxing after an awesome (and late) New Years, and prepping for those 32 freshmen who will be joining us in a few days...pray that everything comes together well for Jan Term so that they can have the best experience possible! I'll leave you with a few pictures from time at home the last few weeks.
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