On Saturday, we had a Progressive Brunch to become acquainted with all the new teachers' new digs. We started out at our apartment with sourdough pancakes (I started a new sourdough batch and found some overpriced cast-iron pans), then to Emma and Andrew's apartment, and last to Rhonda's place. Priscilla enjoyed the company...

Austin and Emma

 Carolyn and Andrew Alfano

 Carolyn and I

 Priscilla, really liking the new plants

 Austin and Ashley

 Me, the cast iron, and the sourdough. Very excited.

Los diablos rojos

These converted U.S. school buses are called the "red devils". They are the primary form of public transportation, though they are slowly being pushed out by new fancy buses and a subway that is currently under construction. They are beautifully decorated, loud, fast, and absolutely terrifying, particularly when driving the Kia Picanto (Ovejita Furiosa). Within the last few weeks I have seen two of these in terrible accidents, one with a sideways front axle and the other with a front end entirely ripped off.

Whale Watching

On Saturday, September 15th, we went whale watching on the Pacific coast right outside of Panama City. After seeing a number of humpback whales and dolphins, we were dropped off on an isolated island with pristine beach and turquoise waters. The water temperature was 85 degrees. On the way back home, we saw sting rays leaping out of the water—something I didn't even know happened. Not bad for a Saturday.

The whales:

The dolphins:

The beach:

La Ovejita Furiosa (the Furious Lamb)

After 4 million calls from the car owner, inflated prices, bum tires, and a broken windshield, we are now half owners of a Kia Picanto! She is a little bit more lively inside then on the outside, but she sure fits the four of us nicely. We shared the purchase of her with friends Ashley and Austin. Car sharing—new ideas for the 21st century!

She (the car) can do things like park in a garage and go camping. See below!

Camping at Laguna de San Carlos

This weekend, we went camping at Laguna de San Carlos up in the hills. The temperature was a nice reprieve from the city humidity and heat. We had a great time enjoying the cool breeze, the pristine lake, camping for the first time in Latin America, and hiking all throughout the area. Thanks to new friends Ashley and Austin for coming along and encouraging us to go on another adventure!

Laguna de San Carlos

Campsite