It has already been a week?!

Here are some beautiful pictures of my school! Two are the view right of my classroom...and one is of the cute little work area outside the classroom. It is really refreshing to have such a beautiful place to study. I give Monmouth credit because I have always thought of it as such a beautiful campus, but ACM has really outdone good ol' MC.

Anyways, yesterday we went to the Museo Nacional as a field trip. It was very interesting to learn about the history of Costa Rica...even if that makes me sound like a nerd! After our morning classes, we all went to lunch in groups, and then headed over to the museum. The whole atmosphere of Costa Rica is different than anything I have ever experienced. When people want to pass you in the street, they are polite enough to ask ?Con permiso? ...which basically translates to them asking permission to pass. Everyone I meet compliments my blue eyes, blonde hair, or my height. I didn't really know what to think when I was told Costa Rica is the happiest place in the world, but now I understand why. By no means does this translate to there not being any "problems" for me. I use the quotes because I have not really had anything bad happen, but I definitely get a lot of attention because I look so different. "Macha" or "Machita" are words that the Ticans use for blondes. Well, since I have only seen about 6 blondes this entire trip, a lot of men take quick interest in me because of my hair. I am now officially known in this country as "Machita alta" or "tall blonde." I am about a foot taller than most of the people here, have much lighter skin, much lighter hair, and my eyes really stick out. Yesterday on our way to the museum, a man yelled, "Machita alta, quieres ir al hotel!?" which you can probably translate yourself. If you just ignore these lame old guys, everything is fine... but sometimes I can't help but to laugh.

The final thing I need to mention that I love about Costa Rica is the food. The food is great...basically my two favorite things are here ---- fruits and vegetables! I mean, I do miss my sweets a bit, but I can already see that I've lost some weight from not eating a bag of sour patch kids a day! haha. Anyways, there is ALWAYS a ton of food on your plate where ever you go...and it is so cheap. I eat at all-you-can-eat buffets for the equivalent of 3 dollars! Those who know me, know I'm in heaven! =)