Costa Rica vs. Mexico

I am currently in San Jose right now, having travelled in for the Costa Rica/Mexico futbol game last night. Although Costa Rica lost (0-3), the game was a lot of fun and I am glad I made the trip. The game started at 8pm and everyone (EVERYONE!) was wearing red. There were probably only about 300 people in from Mexico. Costa Rica ended up playing like crap but the energy in the stadium was awesome. Ticos love their futbol! We ended up sitting in the CR section (of course!) but were near the Mexico section. I probably heard more Spanish curse words in the two hours of playing than I have heard in the 8 months I have been here. There was also a lot of singing (ole ole ole ole ticos ticos...) and cheering. The strange thing about the game though, was how serious everyone became when the game actually started. There was no announcer giving the play by play, no commercials or instant replay, no dancers, nothing. When the game was going on, people sat and watched, stood up when the players got near a goal and than sat back down again. There was also no alcohol served at the game. People honestly came to the game to watch the game - a little different than in the states where I feel games are more of a social activity and the game itself is just there in the background. Costa Rica now plays Argentina next, who we will most definitely lose to and than we will officially be out of the running for the WorldCup. It's ok Costa Rica, we still love you.

Speaking of sports games, will someone please keep me updated on how the Devils are doing this year? I am assuming their season has started...?

Last bit of news - Tomorrow marks the start of Costa Rica Independence Day festivities. Independence Day here is huge, mainly because they don't really have a ton of holidays. Anyways, the actual Independence Day is on the 15th but starting tomorrow, we have Acto Civicos every morning and afternoon and than the Monday after (the 14th) Michelle and I are running with a torch and the students from Quepos, up a very windy and dangerous (no sidewalks) hill, to Manuel Antonio. I am hoping the close the road down, although I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't. I am really excited for it, though. Apparently carrying the torch is something that is done all over the country and I get to be a part of it! Wish me luck in the next couple of weeks, though, because the students are going to be crazy!

paz y amor