ETA at Hammond is 11:00!

On the buses headed to Hammond on the Skyhawk Express!

Back in the USA!

We just landed in Charlotte and will update the blog once we get on the bus to Columbia with an ETA. Pura Vida!

Group 1

Loaded and saying goodbye! Bitter sweet feeling!! Next stop ... Home!

Homeward Bound

As we begin our long journey home, students eat their final breakfast in Costa Rica. Talk of American food has ramped up considerably. Everyone is eagerly anticipating the reunion with the other groups at the airport this afternoon.

Escuela Sonafluca

Matthew's thoughts about Costa Rica

The beautiful country that is Costa Rica has really brought this group together and a special bond of fellowship has been established between us juniors. I have acquired an entirely different outlook on life through the bonds that have been created on this expedition. Back at home we are so fortunate, and I cannot say that enough. For those reading at home, know always that I extremely care about you and I have kept you in my thoughts and prayers. I am sure that you guys have done the same. Thank you and goodnight. Sincerely, Matthew Graham

Group III, Day 8

The expedition continued today with another action-packed day! From ziplining this morning (a group favorite) to visiting the farm of the former president to singing, dancing, and soccer with children at their school, it was a great final full day in this magnificent country. We just arrived in San Jose for our final dinner before heading home tomorrow! Here are a few photos of our day.

Service Project Completed

Group I completes phase three of Hammond's Costa Rican Service Project!! Along with all the adventure, each group has worked hard to better one of the real schools in the Tres Eqis district.

Here are a few pictures of our group finishing up Hammond's service to Escula San JoQuin! Special shout out to Evin, Ellen and Catherine on the new school sign!! When the special request of our gear and our school name added to their school sign, these ladies made it happen!

Group I in Tres Eqis

We have two incredible days with our Costa Rican home stays! I wouldn't begin to try and capture the experience in words.. So I will just share some photos! Our group has had many great adventures an will finish up our time by rafting the Pacuare! Then of to San Jose for a quick overnight before flying home! Pura Vida!!

Pura Vida

As our time in Costa Rica is drawing towards an end, we are left with many great experiences. We have all drifted outside of our comfort zone courtesy of Mr. Angel. Snorkeling, repelling off of a 200 ft cliff, kayaking in the middle of the ocean, rafting 20 miles down river, and even squeezing into tiny holes in caves; we will take back many great stories and experiences. We've all found out a lot about each other including Mr. Rice's fascination with sparkly jeans. We are all pretty much out of clothes, so the trip ending is good news. I've brushed up on my Spanish throughout the week, now being able to somewhat communicate. Estados Unidos es número uno. Which is longer: a rope?
-Jordan

A few Group II zip lining shots from this afternoon