Day 8

Packed and ready to move on it was almost time to say our goodbyes to our host families. Before then we had a cooking session at Randal and Dave’s host house, Olga’s, a very successful gathering as we got to eat the food we made; a palada (folded pastry shell) with either chicken or cheese in the center and deep fried. Yummy! It is no wonder everyone moved as if in slow motion that morning while others found the hammocks first and were reluctant to surrender ownership. Point of interest were the toe paintings (on the girls) which were phenomenal in their detail, Yeller, Suntan, Sara and Jamz all flaunting their decorations. The bus was loaded final photos and tearful goodbyes made (Girly you must stop that as it was contagious) and on to Earth University for our Global Education Conference. We said our goodbyes to Randal who left part way through the bus ride for his home in San Jose. Earth University is MASSIVE in area if not in size. A gorgeous, safe oasis in the middle of Costa Rica! I say oasis as the University was fenced and guarded, like the DMZ in Korea, from the drug gangs who I learned dominate the area. The rooms were great everyone sharing with one other and there were hot, yes hot showers. Ahhhh, said PanamaDon! The Conference started with a tour for those who wanted and then welcoming and opening speeches. Afterwards, 9.00 p.m. we met as a group so that David could distribute the Global Mindset Inventory; a very in-depth self-study produced from the questionnaire we completed prior to the trip. Some enjoyed the comprehensive colourful summary offered, others were not so excited. Hmmmm! Good one to sleep on!