July 17

The first part of our journey started at 5:30, on an airplane bound for Atlanta. We were given an assignment to complete a paragraph and a diagram explaining the relationships between Atta ants, their fungus gardens, bacteria grown on the ants, and a pathogen. After landing in Atlanta we were taking the airport tram to the next gate when it got stuck in the tunnel. Right as we were about to walk out it got going again, and just in time. The next flight went to Liberia, and we were given a second assignment. It was to evaluate how ants were able to fix nitrogen without destroying the balance in their environment. Upon landing we were driven in a mini bus to a lunch place where we ordered our food by pointing at it. We then continued on the final leg of the journey to Finca La Anita. On the way we were surprised by our guide who brought us all mamom chino, similar to leychee. It was fantastic, but a bit too interesting looking for some. As we traveled along some fell asleep, but quickly woke up when the bus driver decided to plow through a river. After a few hours, many pretty flowers, and several cows later, we arrived at our new home. We unpacked, were assigned boots, and headed off on a hike into the forest. A few steps away from the ranch and we were swallowed up by the music of birds and insects. The ranch dogs, corleone and bumbai, joined us in crossing a fast flowing creek. They were much more successful in staying dry than we were. After that the slosh slosh of our marching boots joined the percussion of the forest. Back at the ranch we had time to relax, dry off, and then it was time for dinner. Yum. Adios!