Good-Bye Costa Rica

This has been a very fun and busy week. On Tuesday, I had a quiz and gave a presentation in my class. Then, I went to the artisan market. That is where everyone had told me they got all of their souvenirs. I bought a few things after we finally found it. My two friends and I wondered around downtown San Jose lost for over an hour. I realized that we passed the same high school 3 times when I heard one boy say "Otra vez?" (Again?)

Wednesday, our class talked about Latin American art. We mostly looked at murals and the paintings done by Frida Kahlo. We also watched the movie "Frida." Wednesday afternoon, I went to the Museum of Costa Rican art with a friend. They had a really neat exhibit featuring 6 feet tall Coke bottles. Towards the end of our trip through the museum we accidentally (more or less) got into a closed area and saw about 50 extra pieces. I love that Costa Ricans don't typically get worked up over little things like that and no one was mad.

Thursday, my class went to the National Museum and the artisan market. I had been each place once before but missed out on little parts. So, it was nice to return to them with a little more time and money. When we got back, I watched the movie "Gestación." To me, it is what Juno would have been if it were created by Costa Rican's and filmed in San Jose. It was fun to see places I had been in the movie. Last night, I went to a play at the National Theater! This was something I knew I had to do before I left. I actually understood 90-95% of the show which was exciting.

Today, I woke up to a house without water. Sadly, I have still be unable to take a shower and brush my teeth. Mint gum has been my friend today :) Our class has become very close after spending 4 hours together each weekday morning for the last month. About half of the girls and our teacher shed a few tears. I haven't cried about leaving yet, but I know it will be very hard to say goodbye to Shala, Karo and Evelyn. I already said goodbye to my roommate Katie last night. I am ready to go home to see my family and boyfriend. I especially cannot wait to meet my new nephew. I feel like I have come a long way in my ability to speak Spanish but I'm not sure if I am ready to quit taking classes. My plan was to finish my minor while hear and I have done that, but I am not sure what will happen with the minor if I do not continue learning and practicing. To any Spanish speakers that I know, I would love the chance to practice with you. I think I will always love and watch Spanish films and appreciate any other ideas about remembering the language.

My flight leaves San Jose tomorrow at 11:30am and I will be back in Nebraska by 11:30pm. To my classmates, thanks for making this month great. To my family and friends in Nebraska, I can't wait to see you soon.