The sun was out in the morning for the first time in 2 days. My boots have still been wet since our soccer game with the Young Dreamers on Sunday. They’re cold to put on but that game was definitely worth it.
Everyone tested negative today!! We’re just waiting on Ryan’s comeback in the next few days but this was a good win. Matched the energy of the sun.
Elan and I have been matching each other with 3 cups of coffee every morning this week. Last week’s breakfast was 2 cups every morning but we had to increase the cups this last week before we head home. This is the best coffee I’ve had, I can’t wait to bring some home.
Work today began on the roof with Karl as we drilled holes in order to connect the panels outside to the junction box under the roof, and ultimately to the rest of the circuit inside the shed. We then put PVC pipe through the roof and caulked around it so that the wire that passes through is insulated and won’t short circuit with the metal roof it’s passing through.
We have to be careful on our way up the ladder and then navigating our way on the roof, but once you’re up there the view is incredible. In some way it feels like the Grand Canyon because of how open, wide, and far everything is. On top of that, everything feels alive and green. 
We then hopped down to the shed where the rest of the solar team connected our new batteries in series. We had to be careful to not touch the terminals of the same battery together because they were live. But Edgar, Sam and I have worked well together these past few days and we trust each other. All that is left is for Ryan to come back out here so we can finally install the panels on the rails we installed on Friday (?) This whole experience has really felt like one large day, in a good way. 
Yes, this is work, but it’s just as much a learning experience and I have to remind myself of that sometimes. It doesn’t feel like work when everyone is in good spirits, the music is loud, and you can see the progress we’re making with everyone’s efforts. I’ll be remembering these days for a long time.
We then wrapped up the day by installing the junction boxes under the roof, directly underneath the insulating PVC tubes. Edgar went first and then I followed his lead. We used the power drill to drive a tap screw through the metal. It took more effort than I thought to keep the screw straight, I was winded by the end.
The rain finally came down as we rode back home for lunch, a nap, and cafecito.
For the 2 hours we were supposed to be cooking, we spent around 3 with Juan. “El Casado” was the dish we prepared for dinner. Beef mix, chayote, rice, black beans, plantain, and egg. In traditional Costa Rican food, spice is not included. It’s respected! The whole team adds heavy amounts of hot sauce afterwards, maybe 2-3 bottles for each meal. We love it - we’ll be taking some home, along with plenty of coffee.
The team has made this whole experience memorable. My friends, the staff, all of Green Communities, Dream Volunteers and Young Dreamers have been welcoming. I miss my family most of all, but we’ve built a small one here. 
Pura Vida!