The day started with a photo workshop with Massimo. After lunch we headed out for the Mariposas Reserve to take pictures and practice the photo lessons from the morning. Lots of beautiful butterflies flew around but few enjoyed posing for their portraits. However, the students managed to get some nice photos. Then the next part of the day was the much anticipated white water tube ride. We split into two groups, put on some wet and cold life jackets and boarded the tube raft. The water was mucho frio. Heading down the river was exhilerating. Having the ice cold water hit your body was breath taking. After getting completely drenched the body aclimated and the water did not seem as cold until the next dip and surge of water. The ride gave everyone a big adreneline boost. Even those in the group who were a little nervous about the excursion had a fun time and felt good about conquering a fear. We have seen this lesson several times like when Sarah Jane and Callie held giant beetles in the palm of their hands.
The internet is very spotty here. When the students have free time in the evening is when they want to use it and it has not been working. I get up earlier than the group and have some quiet time and have been able to connect. Speaking of getting up early....Massimo and Sam said they were going birding at sunrise this morning. Last night when the students were invited to join them many said yes. How many do you think got up today and went sunrise birding?
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Sunset on the Amazon
We had some of the most spectacular sunsets. Our cabanas over looked Piranha Laguna. From our open air lodge you could see the most beautiful close to the day.
National Geographic Ecuador Group
We gathered with Massimo (front and center) for a group shot before he had to leave us and return to Italy. We are all back in Houston now and have made many wonderful memories.
White water tubing
In freezing cold river water, our group loaded onto two tube rafts for an adventure ride. Lots of gasping for breath as the cold water hit the body, lots of screams as your tube raft headed into the rapids, and lots of smiles from everyone.
Watching and waiting for Hummingbirds
Biologist, Nicki, names some of the birds that we are trying to photograph.
TARABITA
Day four started with a ride across the canopy in the tarabita.
Bug Hunting Hikes
In the evenings, when it is not pouring down rain, we hunt along the road for nocturnal critters. It is quite entertaining to see the students excitedly looking under leaves and rocks. I would have to say that Callie and Madeleine Ham won the most critters found award for our time in Mindo.
Making Chocolate
As one drops the cocoa beans into the press the other pushes down and out come delicious chocolate. We had bananas, kiwis, apples, and pineapple to dip. We even had left overs....wish I knew where that tub of chocolate was.
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