Day #4 - Never a Dull Moment (Hess)

What a day!

We started out with French toast, scrambled eggs, and the ever-present red beans and rice. Some students were awoken early by the howler monkeys, which were jumping in the trees high above our rooms. The monkeys were loud, it sounded more like a lion, and the students were amazed something the size of a house cat could make so much racket. We then went snorkeling and kayaking: see Chandler’s and Austin’s posts (I don’t want to steal their thunder). When we returned, the driver of our charter bus fell ill (migraine), so we were given more time at the resort while we waited for a new driver. Students made the most of their time (see pictures). We then waited out a major thunder storm in the hotel’s restaurant which was a large open building with a thatched roof. The extended wait at the hotel did not derail our plans, which were to travel inland to a hotel in the rainforest and then take a nighttime hike with a biologist to look for animals. On the way to the hotel, we stopped at Burger King; I have never seen people so grateful for fast food in all my life. One student asked: “Can I get a burger or do they have beans and rice here too?” (They did!). Another interesting quote ” Mr. Hess, if you would have told me a year ago that I would be sitting here in the middle of Costa Rica eating a Whopper I would have never believed you; this is awesome!” Upon further questioning, the students revealed the trip was awesome, but the burger was pretty good too. All in all the day was fun and unexpected, I took a poll and everyone agreed it was a good day. I think everyone learned a valuable lesson about being positive and rolling with the punches. Upon arrival at our hotel, we took a night-time nature hike with a local biologist. We learned about the rain forest, local plants & animals. We saw toads, birds snakes and more bugs than I could mention. Needless to say, I don't think any of the students will even think about sneaking out, now that they know what is waiting just a few steps from their door.