A Note from Sra Soares--July 14

What a life changing experience it has been the last 10 days. From being back to my birth roots after 12 years and experiencing the culture first hand, to seeing my students have true life changing experiences. The place where we stayed "Sitio de Mata" will forever have families that I now consider my second family. Our last day in our homestay began with our last breakfast, everyone ate with little interaction, it was not our typical laughing, practicing our Spanish or shouting the phrase "Pura Vida."  While we were eating we exchanged words, the families expressed that from all the groups that have ever visited this group was special. They were easy to love, affectionate, willing to take risks, humble hearts and embraced the families and children so quickly.  One thing that the families repeatedly said, these kids are special, its obvious the great education they are receiving and how well their parents are raising them. After I thanked them I would often tell them that we have a unique school with loving parents and teachers that believe that it takes a whole community to raise a child! As for me, I am so proud to be a "Tica" proud of the beautiful country where I was born but most of all to have witnessed first hand that the people in CR are truly a treasure! I can't wait for other students to experience what this group was able to experience, and what future opportunities will occur because of our connection with the beautiful people in "Sitio de Mata!"