As the sun set into the tropical Pacific Ocean two days ago, my plane landed to kick off a three-month field season in Parque Nacional Santa Rosa to study the communication system of the banded wren. I immediately started sweating upon exiting the plane and soon shed the one and only long-sleeved shirt that I brought with me – it was 85 degrees Fahrenheit at 7:00 pm.
After the first 24 hours in Costa Rica, my body was sporting some very patriotic colors – both to the country that I am visiting and to the good ol’ US of A, since they both feature red, white and blue on their national flags. Here’s how the story goes:
Red – I spent about an hour walking through the streets of Liberia, trying to track down a cell phone that we can rent during our stay here. Unfortunately, we came up empty-handed, although I now have a souvenir of tender, red shoulders.
White – My skin is as pale as snow and I’m far from wearing the beautiful bronzed skin that Ticos (aka Costa Ricans) possess. But then again, I’d be leather before I ever attained skin of that hue, so I’m not even going to try.
Blue – If you’re currently involved in spring cleaning, consider yourself lucky that you don’t have to sweep the walls… and the ceilings… and the outdoor walls. Because that’s what I did yesterday – a big sweep-down of the entire house. It has been overgrown with all sorts of life, namely spiders and insects, frogs, skinks and scorpions during our absence since last September. While sweeping in my sandals, an unattached table leg came loose and slammed down on my big toe, which bruised within seconds.
So even though I am somewhat painfully patriotic at the moment, I will try and wear my colors with pride.
Don’t know if my first comment registered, so I’m sending this one. Enjoyed your piece very much…..from a language teacher perspective, and as your mother. Wish I could kiss your toe and make it better!