Today was my first full day in Costa Rica and my first birthday away from home. My host, Mama Maria, served us patacones with beans and cheese on top for breakfast. It tasted amazing! After finishing up, Maria played “Popurri ‘Las Mananitas’” for my birthday and started singing. She was very happy for me, which made it a fun morning. Communication with her can be challenging, but we are trying our best. Spanish words and phrases are slowly returning, and communicating is fun.

We explored Heredia and visited the central market. In between, we bought a soccer ball and started kicking it around. A few locals went up to play a little and joke with us. Throughout the day, I was surprised to see how kind the locals were. Locals love to make jokes and greet us. The most Spanish I had to use was with Maria. I have been trying to translate lots of things to improve my vocabulary. 

Some of the areas are pretty. The market was unique with all the fruits, vegetables, and meats. The food and the drinks are all so good. I tried different appetizers at the place we went for lunch and had everything Mama Maria offered. After dinner, Mama Maria threw a fiesta, and everyone came over. We had cake, and everyone attempted to sing Happy Birthday in Spanish. I did not come to Costa Rica with expectations, but I have enjoyed everything. It was a great first day, and I am already looking forward to tomorrow.