Two Wheelin

This morning we went for a bike ride through CATIE, the agricultural research center. Jose, our guide, got us situated and did a wonderful job tailoring the ride for the two 21 year olds who enjoyed a quick pace and their parents, who enjoyed a bit slower ride. We saw several colonies of leaf cutter ants and learned about their efficient societal organization. As we rode through the groves, we tasted sugar cane, cocoa, guava, and coffee. The cocoa and coffee barely resembles the processed products we are used to tasting. We stopped at a pond and although we did not see the resident crocodile, we saw a variety of brightly colored birds. The Northern Jacana was quite adept at balancing on the lily pads. The last part of the trip took us by different types of palms that are grown for a variety of products. After our ride, Jose took us to the same place for lunch that we had breakfast before our river raft. Today instead of a tanager, a beautiful hummingbird buzzed around visiting the flowers surrounding the dining area.

During our free afternoon at the Lodge, the boys caught up with their friends online and Mark and I explored the grounds of the Guayabo Lodge and surrounding area. As evening approached, the encroaching clouds were almost mystical as they crept up the valley mingling with the rays of the sun. The clouds as it turned out were a little preview of the approaching change in the weather.