Costa Rica 2020

Costa Rica Day Two!!!!!

​By Emma Oates and Megan Miller
 
This day started out a lot smoother, as we all got about 12 hours of sleep after being awake for more than 30!! We began the day with an authentic Costa Rican breakfast consisting of rice, beans and fresh fruit, then set off on a short drive to the Chachagua Rainforest.
 
We were met by Ishmael and his family, owners of Two Little Monkeys Farm. They taught us about reforestation, and each of us got to plant our own endangered tree. Walking through the rainforest, we got to learn about all the plants in Costa Rica. We tried fresh ginger, turmeric, black pepper, we got to see vanilla plants, pineapple, lemon trees and cacao plants.
 
We also learned about the types of animals that contribute to the functioning of all these plants. For example, you can't have chocolate without monkeys! After lunch, we walked down to the river to swim and cool off before we began our chocolate-making workshop. 
 
After meeting back at the farm, Ishmael began explaining the process of chocolate making. We got to see the slimy inside of a cacao plant - not at all what we expected - and learned about the fermentation of the beans that will later become chocolate.
 
We helped crush the cacao, and after adding some cinnamon, vanilla, and cayenne, we had some nice hot chocolate on an 85 Costa Rican afternoon! Refreshing!
 
Then, we were given some molds and toppings to make our own milk and dark chocolates. While we waited for those to set in the freezer, we got to help squeeze sugar cane and lemon for fresh lemonade.
 
We loved this day full of learning, good food, sunshine, and best friends.