What a magical night!

Last night we were invited to the principal's house for dinner and drinks. As with all of my Costa Rican experiences, I never really know what to expect and just "go with the flow". I tried to not let my American standards of what a "party at the principal's house" would be like. A typical American party would consist of sitting and talking about life, eating dinner, than leaving. Of course, Costa Rican's - you blew me away. In so many words, I was overwhelmed by the hospitality and warmth that exuded from this family. It should be known that every family I have had the privilege of being apart of in my time here in Costa Rica has been absolutely wonderful, warm and loving to this Gringa.

We started our night by grabbing some drinks, talking and then dancing! Someone threw some salsa music on and away we went! I was really unaware that salsa would be any different in a Latin American country then what I am used to in the states (duh, I was wrong!). It's much more fluid and less prescriptive in the basic steps. Anyway, my principal has a son in the school, who happens to be one of my students AND the best dancer I have ever seen! We danced a couple of songs together which was really quite fun. Something culturally to note- dancing with your students is completely kosher. The atmosphere about what is "appropriate" with students is a little more flexible here. I personally like that we could dance without any awkwardness because it is culturally acceptable. Dancing last night was simply something to do with your family and friends at a party.

The food served was excellent as well! Homemade pico de gallo, guacamole, barbecued meats in tortillas (special barbecue papas for me!). After a couple of hours of eating, dancing, talking and laughing the principal had us get into a circle so Sara could give a toast. She is leaving this week after finishing her 10 weeks of student teaching. She gave a great speech in Spanish and then the principal began playing acoustic guitar and everyone began signing in celebration of her leaving. We all sat and listened to song after song, taking in this truly magical moment. After awhile, they wanted to try to sing a song in English so they sung Happy Birthday to me once it was found out my birthday is in a week! Best rendition of Happy Birthday ever!

We finished the night out with more dancing and laughing and left their beautiful home around midnight. When could I ever say I went to a school administrator's house for 5 hours, had the best time of my life and there was no a single moment of awkwardness?

So thank you to Don Luis and his gracious family for showing these Gringas an amazing time we will never forget.

All the student teachers together :)