September 15th--Costa Rican Independence Day

September 15, 2012 was the 191st anniversary of Costa Rica's Independence Day.  We had the privilege of being a part of it and celebrating the event with our school and new friends.  The day started with our landlord, Maribel letting Emme borrow one of her daughter's traditional dresses.  She wore it to school and was beaming the whole time she was wearing it.

 

Leyton appearing in the kinder (preschool) parade at school.  He got to play the drum and he was sooo loving it!

The evening festivities were very traditional, singing the Costa Rica Anthem, learning about the history of Costa Rica, had the traditional 'faroles' (lanterns) competition, and then paraded around the block with music, drums, and lots of happy people.

After the festivities at school, Steve Thomas and family took us out for pizza at Pizza Hut.  It was so nice to hang out with the Thomas' and just enjoy the night with friends--and the pizza was pretty good!

It was a nice blessing to a part of the history of Costa Rica and it was a wonderful experience for Emme to be part of the dances.  She was so excited and so proud--she was literally glowing and so composed in every move she made.  And for anyone who knew Emme with performing in front of people, I was a little nervous about her backing out and deciding not to--especially since we were in a foreign country, in front of a lot of people--mostly Spanish speakers--and with students and a teacher she didn't really know too well.  But she was AMAZING!! I was so proud of her and she stayed focused on her teacher and was so graceful with every step she made.

 Emme and dance teacher Graciela Arguedas--so sweet

 Emme and Leyton in traditional dress--with a farol (lantern)

  Leyton in traditional dress, with his wooden machete

  Our landlord's daughter, Carolina, in the school's parade

  Some of the parade people--really good music and drums.

So, that was it, other than the constant drums all night.  Typically in the United States, you hear firework before July 4th and all during the night--Here, it is drums.  Practicing before and all night long.  I actually enjoyed all the music!  So glad to be part of such a celebration with the Ticos and the pride they have in their country!

So blessed!

In HIM,
The Crawfords